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TROY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has proposed new standards for fire departments around safety. This 608-page first draft was discussed by local fire rescue squads at Hudson Valley Community College to educate each other on the potential changes.
Rick French representing North Greenbush explained that some proposed rules have already been covered by local departments such as smoke detectors in living quarters. “We’re trying to educate anybody that has a stake and help them to make informed comments on it.”
Fire officials worry how some updated health protections, such as replacing old or damaged equipment, will affect smaller departments. “It would impose significant financial equipment training restrictions, or requirements, on fire departments across the country,” stated Association Secretary for the Firefighters Association of the State of New York (FASNY), John D’Alessandro.
FASNY has been reporting a decrease in active firefighters for decades and worries these standards could make this issue worse. Former Cheif, Art Hunsinger, said one rule would even require resources for a new position.
“Tracking things that now they want on paper on a daily basis. You’d almost have to hire someone to do that full-time.”
The Rensselaer County Director of Public Safety said they have already given some feedback to OSHA and the group agrees some of their proposed guidance may be too strict. “Until this process is completely over and we see the actual completed standard, that’s when we’ll have to figure it out,” stated Jay Wilson.
Presenters expect OSHA’s new rules to be implementable in another two to five years. The public comment period is open until May 6, 2024.
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