EPSU denounces all attempts to exempt firefighters in Europe from EU law

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(10 February 2020) Trade unions representing firefighters in Europe strongly denounce all attempts to exempt firefighters in Europe from the provisions of the European Working Time Directive 2003/88 / EC.

All workers and firefighters must be protected by the health and safety rules prescribed in this directive, namely:

  • weekly rest,
  • a work cap of 48 hours per week,
  • all hours at work recorded as working hours.

A possible new directive specific to firefighters is absolutely not acceptable. This will only weaken the guarantees of the firefighters in terms of health and safety.

EPSU remains mobilised so that, within the European Union, the rules in accordance with Directive 2003/88 / EC are applied and respected.

Adopted by the EPSU Firefighters’ Network, 31 January 2020