REspiratory Fit testing program recieves funding
June 27th, 2010
Municipal Affairs
June 29, 2010
Firefighter Fit Testing Initiative Receives Funding
Firefighters will be able to take advantage of increased training opportunities with $10,000 in funding provided by the Provincial Government. Fit testing training is available through the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire Services for the use of breathing apparatuses worn in the line of duty.
“Firefighters throughout this province are a brave and dedicated group of individuals,” said the Honourable Dianne Whalen, Minister for Municipal Affairs and Minister Responsible for Fire and Emergency Services. “In addition to the increased investments in protective equipment and firefighting vehicles outlined in this year's budget, support of programs such as Fit testing helps to prevent injury and death.”
Fit testing is now a requirement of the province’s Occupational Health and Safety Act for anyone using a respiratory mask or self-contained breathing apparatus. The Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire Services has already begun a process of training firefighters to perform testing within their own departments. Firefighter Fit Testing was offered by the association through Fire and Emergency Services Training School last month, with many members taking advantage of the opportunity.
“Our government continues to demonstrate its commitment to firefighter safety by providing this assistance for such important work,” said Minister Whalen. “Firefighters are called to action in some of the most dangerous situations possible and it’s essential they are properly fitted for their equipment to protect them from potential harm.”
This brings to a total of 12,500 dollars of finacial assiatance to the NLAFS for a respiratory fit test program.