On 9 and 10 December 2015 colleagues from the EPSU Firefighters Network met at the invitation of Enprotex. The Enprotex is an association of (public) procurement organizations and individuals that are active in the (public) procurement of protective textiles and PPE. Providers, manufacturers, end users and representatives of the European Commission discussed the needs and possible innovations that are placed on personal protective equipment for firefighters.
Colleagues from Spain, Italy, Sweden, Germany, Belgium and Norway participated at the meeting. EPSU, represented by Christine Jakob presented the work of the EPSU Firefighters Network to the Forum.
The topic of cancer risk by firefighters is widely discussed not only nationally but also at European level. It has become clear that everywhere there is a need to demonstrate a scientifically sound link between contamination with pollutants and cancer risk. There is the need develop prevention strategies to prevent contamination. The spectrum ranges from the development of better (possibly intelligent) protective clothing on the use of Hygiene up to models of the cleaning of protective clothing.
It has become clear that it is - beyond the diversity of conditions -but an urgent need to network at European level to develop joint solutions more quickly. As Philippe Quevauvillier (Research Programming and Policy Officer at the European Commission) stressed that they stand here, although at the very beginning, however Europe is the right place to work. In order to strengthen the position of the end user, trade unions must be more involved in the European processes.
Colleagues from Denmark, Spain, Italy, Sweden, Germany and Norway from the EPSU Firefighters Network
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