Write a letter to support our volunteer fire departments
In response to new proposed rule from OSHA regarding fire brigades,
(https://www.osha.gov/emergency-response/rulemaking), we are encouraged to write
letters in support of our volunteer fire departments.
(https://www.osha.gov/emergency-response/rulemaking), we are encouraged to write
letters in support of our volunteer fire departments.
Judy Long has a sample letter
below.
below.
Comments can be submitted to the Emergency Response Docket
at https://www.regulations.gov/docket/OSHA-2007-0073.
at https://www.regulations.gov/docket/OSHA-2007-0073.
DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Reference:
Docket No. OSHA–2007–0073, Emergency Response, to replace the existing Fire
Brigades Standard
Dear Assistant Secretary Parker:
I am writing to express my concerns regarding the changes to OSHA 1910-156. Our
community struggles to find people with the time and energy to volunteer for our local
fire service. These proposed changes would have a catastrophic effect on our
volunteers. The operating budget of the fire department, including emergency services,
is $980K/yr. This includes vehicles, buildings, equipment, training, insurance and any
other expense incurred. Implementing these changes would have a serious impact
financially. The fire department relies on our community’s generosity to make ends
meet.
If these changes are to move forward, volunteer departments should be exempt from
the regulation. The economic impact to our fire department would be substantial and
most likely result in its closure and higher taxes for our community as we would be
forced to contract for fire and EMS protection.
Thank you for your consideration.
the regulation. The economic impact to our fire department would be substantial and
most likely result in its closure and higher taxes for our community as we would be
forced to contract for fire and EMS protection.
Thank you for your consideration.