Respirator

The grievor sought clear guidelines in the use of Scott air pack and provision of more personal protective equipment during emergency situations. The grievor also sought that the employer allows him to grow a beard.

The grievor is responsible for first aid firefighting. The grievor is also responsible or involved in activities such as rescue and emergency evacuations and using a fire extinguisher or fire hose to control small fires.

The Administrative Committee noted that the Occupational Safety and Health Committee reported that the Department had prepared a policy in regard of the use of self-contained breathing apparatus and that there was sufficient personal protective equipment for first aid firefighters. The Committee also noted that the grievor has received training on the use of respirators.

The Administrative Committee considered and agreed with the report of the Occupational Safety and Health Committee in that the grievor was treated within the intent of the policy in that there was a requirement to wear the respirator and the grievor must be clean-shaven in order to maintain an effective facial seal and a positive pressure inside the face piece.

The grievance was denied.