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THE opening of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade's $3.2million Croydon station is again in doubt after union concerns were reignited during a drill last Thursday.
The United Firefighters Union and MFB officials met last week to assess the new station, at the busy Mt Dandenong/Dorset roads intersection, following an independent traffic assessment which addressed the union's concerns about safety risks to firefighters.
But despite the addition of a red flashing beacon, floodlit signs on the southern face of the building and amber flashing lights on the slip lane off Mt Dandenong Road, the union says the station is still unsafe for firefighters.
UFU industrial officer Greg Pargeter said concerns were heightened during the drill.
"We had a truck and a car drive through the red light in the left-hand turn lane. It could have caused an accident, which is what we've said all along."
One firefighter, who did not wish to be named, said he had witnessed what could have been a "major accident" if the station had been operating. |
"[They drove at] a speed which the driver could not have possibly stopped even if the lights were red. It sent a chill up my spine and I just wonder at the mentality of those people who consider the turn-out, whether it is a fire call or inspecting, is safe in its present form."
The UFU has called for the station's vehicle exit to be moved from Dorset Road to Mt Dandenong Road, to ensure maximum safety for firefighters pulling out.
Mr Pargeter said the MFB has agreed to look into its suggestion.
"We're glad they're looking at the recommendation. We're reluctant to allow firefighters to enter a workplace that is dangerous. It's better to make sure it is safe and wait than to rush through it."
MFB chief fire officer Tony Murphy said he would try to make the station as safe as possible: "We did some field testing late last week and we are working with VicRoads on the results of those." Mr Murphy said he hoped to get firefighters in as soon as possible. |
