Yellow card training assessments for firefighters
The Working on Fire programme will assess firefighters at each of their 17 bases in Gauteng.
In preparation for the upcoming winter fire season, firefighters will have their fitness tested. The Department of Environmental Affairs, Forestry and Fisheries’ Working on Fire programme will conduct yellow card training assessments to achieve this.
This year’s training assessments will be held at each of all 17 bases across the province due to Covid-19.
330 firefighters in the province will be assessed by the trainers from Kishugu Training Academy.
Amongst the activities to be done by firefighters are 2,4kms run, pull-ups and push-ups, firewall exercise, and route march.
Working on Fire programme’s general manager (GM) in Gauteng Stephen Boyes said that yellow card assessment training ensures fitness and readiness of firefighters for the fire season.
‘‘We have put in place all the necessary occupational health and safety measures in place to save and protect the lives of our firefighters as essential workers throughout our operations. In all the bases we have heightened supply awareness, education, masks, sanitizers, water, hand soaps, and screen devices,’’ said the GM.
He said the province has highly offered extensive awareness and education around the Covid-19 with management and firefighters.
Boyes explained health guidelines are strictly adhered to and compliance is enforced at all times.
He said people under treatment for chronic illnesses will not be expected to partake in the assessments because of the high risk.
‘‘Assessing the firefighters is part of observing and implementing occupational health and safety rules. Safety of our firefighters is our number one concern,’’ Boyes said. He anticipates a very busy fire season.
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