Nswfb Standing Orders

Front 1

A fumigation notice is received by post at the Station, indicating a toxic substance is to be used. What are the notifications required as per Standing Orders

Back 1

• an entry is made in the Occurrence Book and the Station Commander’s Diary
• a notice is placed on all appliances at the station
• adjoining stations are notified, and
• the Communication Centre is notified.

Front 2

State the safe working practices required, as stated in the Standing Orders, when attending an incident when it is known or suspected that premises are being or have just been fumigated or fogged?

Back 2

4.1 Do not enter premises that are being fumigated. In the event of fire consider defensive strategies.
4.2 Before entering premises where fogging is suspected, look for any notices indicating that the
premises have been subject to fogging. Industry best practice requires pest control operators to
post notices on all access and egress doors to the affected premises.
methyl bromide ethylene dichloride
methyl bromide carbon disulphide
phosphine chloropicrin
ethylene oxide hydrogen cyanide
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4.3 Don full personal protective equipment and self contained breathing apparatus before entering
such premises.
4.4 Avoid unnecessary exposure to insecticidal fog. Do not enter treatment areas unless it is
considered essential to save life.
4.5 If automatic dispensing equipment starts operating, withdraw from the area immediately.
4.6 Decontaminate in accordance with SOG 10.4, Decontamination. On return to station, shower
with soap and water.

Front 3

As per Standing Orders, Detail the inspection schedules and procedures to be followed when conducting hydrant Inspections?

Back 3

Station Commanders should manage hydrant inspection schedules and aim to have all hydrants in their
station area inspected once every 12 months. Inspections may be more frequent if necessary.
• The hydrant indicator plate is in reasonable condition and properly placed.
• The hydrant and cover plate are clear of dirt, grass and other debris.
• The hydrant appears to be in proper workable condition.

Front 4

State the purpose of the station register as set out in the Standing Orders.

Back 4

• a ready assimilation of station record keeping procedures by all members;
• a ready retrieval of information;
• improved accuracy of records;
• improved presentation and availability of information for inspecting officers;
• the elimination of record duplication.

Front 5

Standing Orders describe how to correct mistakes made in recording information in NSWFB books, such as occurrence books. State the requirements for correcting mistakes made in official records and books.

Back 5

When a mistake is made in recording information in NSWFB records books, such as occurrence books,
the person making the entry is to rule out the error, initial same, together with Brigades official number,
and then record the correct entry.
Where a page, or pages, are missed inadvertently these must be ruled off, initialled and numbered in the
same manner, by the person concerned. The Station Commander will also initial, number and date the
page or pages.

Front 6

State how are occurrence books identified and what are the procedures for their retention as set out in the Standing Orders

Back 6

• number and name of station
• day and date of first occurrence book entry
• day and date of last occurrence book entry
Retain for 6 years after date of last entry, then send to Information Management Unit, Head Office for archive

Front 7

List the three relevant points regarding when keys to private premises are checked and how this is recorded, as detailed under the heading “Use of keys and resealing after use” as set out in the Standing Orders

Back 7

1. Keys to private premises are to be kept in a fabric or leather bag effectively sealed by a lead and
wire seal.
2. Keys are to be kept in a locked cabinet, the key to which is to remain with the Station
Commander at all times.
3. Station Commanders will make an entry in the Occurrence Book whenever keys are removed
from the key cabinet, eg to attend to fire calls.
4. Station Commanders will seal the key bag after use of keys with the NSWFB’s lead and wire
seal. An appropriate entry is to be made in the Occurrence Book indicating the time of keys being
resealed and returned to the key cabinet after use.
5. Should owners of keys wish to reseal keys with their own seal after NSWFB use they may be
permitted to do so. The Station Commander should notify such owners after NSWFB use of keys
with a request that their representative attend the station to affix their seal.
6. Station Commanders are to check keys to ensure that they are correct and that seals are intact.
This check is to be carried out by the Station Commander duty platoon rostered 1800-0800 hours
each Friday.
7. The outcome of the key inventory check must be recorded in the Occurrence Book immediately
following such key inventory check.
8. The key cabinet must be checked at the beginning of each shift to ascertain whether it is locked
or otherwise. The Station Commander must ensure that the result of such check is recorded in the
Occurrence Book at that time.
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9. Station Commanders who receive original issue of keys to premises are to complete the
appropriate paperwork and forward this to the Communication Centre to which the alarm is
passed on.
10. The Database Manager at the Sydney Communication Centre will have the relevant information
updated in Fires III.
11. When any additional keys are received Station Commanders will complete the Key Deposit
Form and forward it directly to the Area Office. The Sydney Communication Centre need only
be notified of original issue of keys to premises.

Front 8

Standing Orders outline the arrangements for full or part change of shift. State the provisions for ‘Eligibility’ and ‘Conditions’ required for a full or part change of shift.

Back 8

1.1 Members concerned must be attached to the same station or adjoining stations in the same Zone,
and have comparable qualifications.
1.2 Members are not permitted to perform full or part changes of shift while on leave.

Front 9

State the ‘Record keeping’ required for a full or part change of shift as detailed in the Standing Orders.

Back 9

3.1 Applications for full or part change of shift will only be accepted for a minimum of 4 hours to a
maximum of a full shift, except as permitted in 3.2 and 3.3.
3.2 A lesser period of part change of shift may be arranged twice in each 8 week standard roster
cycle. The minimum period is 1 hour.
3.3 Further periods of less than 4 hours part change of shift may be granted by the Zone Commander
for special reasons.
3.4 No employee is permitted to work in excess of 16 hours straight, except in the case of a call of
fire or other emergency circumstances.
3.5 Full or part change of shift is restricted to a maximum of 96 hours per calendar year. This is not
cumulative.
3.6 Further periods may be granted by the Zone Commander for special reasons, including
attendances at TAFE and other approved training courses.

Front 10

State the actions listed in Standing Orders that deal with the failure of a firefighter to honour an agreement for a full or part change of shift?

Back 10

7.1 When members have had a change of shift approved in accordance with the above procedures,
and a member fails to honour the agreement, the following action will be taken:
a. the member who was originally rostered on the shift will have his or her wages reduced by
the appropriate hours of the shift, or have consolidated leave reduced by the appropriate
hours.
b. the member who failed to report for duty on the agreed shift, and therefore did not honour
their part of the agreement, will be subject to discipline unless the member can show good
cause for not reporting for duty as agreed and for failing to give reasonable notice of their
inability to report.

Front 11

Standing Orders include the topic ‘Lateness for duty’. List the procedures the Station Officer is to follow if a firefighter is absent without leave or absent from rollcall.

Back 11

the officer or firefighter concerned shall be regarded as absent without leave and an entry in
the occurrence book made accordingly. The Duty Commander is also to be notified.
A written report is to be submitted to the Director immediately by the Station Commander. The Assistant
Director Operational Personnel is also to be informed.

Front 12

List the three relevant points regarding the use of keys to private premises when attending calls, as detailed under the heading “Use of keys and resealing after use” as set out in the Standing Orders?

Back 12

3. Station Commanders will make an entry in the Occurrence Book whenever keys are removed
from the key cabinet, eg to attend to fire calls.
4. Station Commanders will seal the key bag after use of keys with the NSWFB’s lead and wire
seal. An appropriate entry is to be made in the Occurrence Book indicating the time of keys being
resealed and returned to the key cabinet after use.
5. Should owners of keys wish to reseal keys with their own seal after NSWFB use they may be
permitted to do so. The Station Commander should notify such owners after NSWFB use of keys
with a request that their representative attend the station to affix their seal.

Front 13

Standing Orders include information regarding ‘Children’. State the accepted procedures for pre-school groups and groups of other school children visiting stations.

Back 13

Children
Pre school groups
For pre school groups of children aged minimum 4 years to under 7 years:
1. Number of children comprising a group not to exceed 10.
2. Where possible, a minimum of 14 days notice to a proposed visit should be given.
3. Visits may be permitted on any day or time which is suitable to NSWFB operations.
4. Children to be under adult supervision during the whole time present at the station.
5. Applications for visits in accordance with the abovementioned conditions may be made direct to
the Station Commander concerned who may approve the application, subject to the convenience
of NSWFB operations.
Groups of other school children
For groups of school children with a minimum age of 7 years:
1. The number of children comprising a group not to exceed 35 children.
2. A group comprising 20 children or more to be accompanied by a teacher and a parent. A group of
less than 20 children to be accompanied by a teacher.
3. Where possible, a minimum of 14 days notice of a proposed visit should be given.
4. Visits may be permitted on any day or time which is suitable to NSWFB operations.
5. Applications for visits in accordance with the abovementioned conditions may be made direct to
the Station Commander concerned who may approve the application subject to the convenience
of NSWFB operations.

Front 14

Standing Orders include information about NSWFB Harassment Prevention Policy. In terms of this policy, what is Harassment, with whom can it take place between and at what locations?

Back 14

Harassment is any type of unwelcome or unreciprocated behaviour that makes a person feel offended,
humiliated, belittled or intimidated.
Harassment in the workplace can take place between:
• an employee and a manager or supervisor,
• co-workers, or
• an employee and another person in the workplace, for example a customer, a visitor, an
employee of another agency or a job applicant.
Harassment can occur in any location where people are working. It can also occur at work-related
activities outside the workplace, such as work functions, conferences and during work related travel.

Front 15

The NSWFB Harassment Prevention Policy contained in the Standing Orders lists the types of behaviour, which could amount to harassment. List the four types and give three examples for each type of behaviour.

Back 15

Verbal behaviour
Non-verbal behaviour
Physical behaviour
Bullying

Front 16

Outline how a Type 1 Debrief should be conducted as described in standing orders.

Back 16

Type 1 operational debriefs following minor or routine incidents
Type 2 operational debriefs following medium to large incidents
Type 3 operational debriefs following major, complex or significant incidents.

Front 17

Standing Orders include information about ‘Incident Reports’ and the ‘Australian Incident Reporting System’. State how AIRS data is used by the NSWFB.

Back 17

• assist people and organisations to recover from the effects of emergency incidents
• develop policy and risk management strategies
• improve services to meet current and emerging community needs
• develop programs to reduce the impact of incidents on the community and evaluation criteria
to determine their success
• improve organisational and business systems and processes
• plan and efficiently allocate resources
• provide reporting on NSWFB activities to the Minister and other stakeholders and meet
accountability reporting requirements.

Front 18

Standing Orders include information about ‘Incident Reports’ and the ‘Australian Incident Reporting system’. Who is responsible for completing and submitting the incident report?

Back 18

The first station arriving at the incident (referred to as the reporting station) receives the Initial AIRS
Report.

Front 19

Standing Orders include information about ‘Incident reports’ and the ‘Australian Incident Reporting System’. State the requirements for submission of reports.

Back 19

It is critical that reports are lodged as soon as possible after the incident. Timely submission of reports
ensures that the NSWFB is able to respond to enquiries and provide details for insurance settlement
claims.

Front 20

Standing Orders include information about ‘Incident notebooks’. State the purpose of the notebooks.

Back 20

The notebook is used for recording information at all types of incidents, inspections and other activities
so that NSW Fire Brigades personnel can better prepare themselves to:
• complete reports,
• complete court statements (which may be asked for several years after the incident) or give
evidence,
• provide useful information to Fire Brigades and Police investigators,
• collect accurate and more detailed information for entry into the Australian Incident
Reporting System (AIRS).
The notebook is not to be used to record performance appraisal information about individual NSWFB
employees.

Front 21

Standing Orders contain information about ‘Dental certificates’. When can a certificate issued by a dentist entitle a firefighter to sick leave?

Back 21

A certificate given by a dentist and submitted by a member to justify entry on the sick list shall not be
accepted in future as sufficient compliance with Clause 23 of the Permanent Firefighters Award or
Clause 15 of the Retained Firefighters Award unless:
1. such certificate clearly states the date and time before which the member should not resume duty;
and
2. such time is not more than 48 hours after the time when the professional services in respect of
which the certificate is given, has been rendered.
Note: Station Commanders are required to recognise that a dental certificate is only valid for a period
of 48 hours. Should a member have occasion to remain absent from duty for a period in excess of
48 hours a certificate from a qualified medical practitioner is required.

Front 22

List the documentation that must be submitted when a firefighter suffers an off-duty injury, which necessitates that member taking sick leave, as outlined in the Standing Orders.

Back 22

1. a memorandum stating how the injury occurred together with the nature of the injury,
2. a medical certificate, and
3. a statutory declaration stating how the injury occurred.

Front 23

State the general conditions for taking consolidated leave contained in the Standing Orders.

Back 23

1.1 Except as provided for in 1.2, permanent firefighters must apply for consolidated leave at least 24
hours in advance.
1.2 In exceptional circumstances, the Operational Commander may grant leave on short notice if a
replacement is available or a recall can be arranged.
4 Conditions
4.1 With prior notice
4.1.1 Late start. By prior arrangement with an off-going shift member to work overtime, consolidated
leave can be taken at the beginning of a shift, for:
• a minimum of 1 hour and a maximum of 2 hours on day shift, or
• a minimum of 1 hour and a maximum of 6 hours on night shift.
4.1.2 Early finish. By pre-arrangement with an on-coming shift member to work overtime,
consolidated leave can be taken at the end of a shift for:
• a minimum of 1 hour and a maximum of 2 hours on day shift, or
• a minimum of 1 hour and a maximum of 6 hours on night shift
4.2 Recall
4.2.1 Where it is not possible to arrange ‘with prior notice’ in terms of 4.1, and therefore a recall must
be used, the minimum period of consolidated leave which can be taken is 4 hours, up to and
including a whole shift.
4.2.2 Recredits are not allowed after the commencement of approved leave.
4.2.3 Employees may cancel leave if there is sufficient time before the commencement of the shift to
cancel overtime.

Front 24

Standing Orders include information about the ‘Code of conduct’. State the fundamental principles of behaviour expected of members of the NSWFB.

Back 24

• read and ensure they understand this Code of Conduct
• act ethically, lawfully and in accordance with the principles contained in this Code
• report potentially unethical or corrupt practices via the established mechanisms.

Front 25

Standing Orders include information about the ‘Code of conduct’. State the NSWFB policy regarding the ‘Acceptance of gifts or benefits’.

Back 25

NSWFB employees and contractors may only accept gifts, benefits or hospitality without reporting them
if the gift, benefit or act of hospitality:
a. is token in nature (that is, has a value of less than $50), and
b. acceptance is reasonable and would appear reasonable to others (that is, acceptance would
not cause, or seem to anyone else that it would cause the recipient to have any obligation
to the giver).
All other offers of gifts, benefits or hospitality should be refused. In the event that a gift cannot
reasonably be refused, these gifts become NSWFB corporate property. Information about such gifts and
their location must be reported to your manager and must be sent to the Manager Corporate Risk for entry
in the Gifts register.

Front 26

List the conditions that apply to parking private vehicles / cycles on any NSW Fire Brigades premises as detailed in the Standing Orders.

Back 26

The following conditions apply to any private vehicle on NSWFB premises:
5.1 Drivers/owners of private vehicles must obey any instructions from the Station Commander or
site manager.
5.2 The Station Commander or site manager may require private vehicles to be removed from
NSWFB premises if required for security or the efficient operation of the NSWFB.
5.3 NSWFB vehicles always have priority over private vehicles.
5.4 The number of private vehicles parked on NSWFB premises must not exceed the number of
parking spaces designated for private vehicles.
5.5 Private vehicles must not obstruct appliance bays or impede the movement of NSWFB vehicles.
5.6 Private vehicles must not be parked in appliance bays.
5.7 Employees must not leave private vehicles on NSWFB premises when they are off duty.
5.8 Cleaning of and/or mechanical attention to private vehicles on NSWFB premises is prohibited,
with the exception of residents of quarters on NSWFB premises who may clean their private
vehicle so long as this does not interfere with the efficient functioning of the NSWFB and
complies with the instruction on Washing appliances on page 696, and any water restrictions.

Front 27

State the NSWFB procedure regarding maintaining an awareness of ‘In Orders’ in relation to firefighters, commanders and supervisors, as contained in the Standing Orders.

Back 27

Under the Fire Brigades Regulation 2008 all firefighters must acquire and maintain a knowledge of In
Orders. Support staff also need to be informed of issues relating to their areas of responsibility and
employment conditions.
Commanders and supervisors must ensure that all staff under their supervision read each issue of In
Orders as soon as possible after publication, so that the information is available to staff and the
NSWFB’s commitments to occupational health and safety and equal employment opportunity are met.

Front 28

Standing Orders include the topic ‘Fire Permits’. According to Standing Orders who can issue a permit, who has to have a permit and how long does a permit last?

Back 28

This instruction covers the issuing of fire permits for lighting fires in NSWFB Fire Districts under the
Rural Fires Act 1997.
2 Who can issue a permit?
Permits to light fires in NSWFB Fire Districts can only be issued by the NSWFB.
Permits may be issued by the Station Commander (Officer in Charge) of the station responsible for the
area where the fire is to be lit, or an officer in the chain of command above the Station Commander. Any
officer authorised by the Zone Management Team may also issue permits.
Permits to light fires in Rural Fire Service (RFS) Fire Districts can only be issued by the RFS.
Note: Local councils can no longer issue permits.
3 Who has to have a permit?
Anyone who lights a fire:
• that is likely to be dangerous to any building at any time of year, or
• for the purpose of land clearance or for burning a fire break during a bush fire danger period,
has to have a permit.
Exception: Public authorities (such as local councils or government departments) do not need to have a
permit.
A permit lasts for a maximum of 21 days, but you can specify a shorter period on the permit.

Front 29

Standing Orders include the topic ‘Fire Permits’. According to Standing Orders what must be considered before issuing a permit?

Back 29

It is your responsibility as the permit issuing officer to ensure the safety of the fire and that you impose
the appropriate conditions. In most cases, this will require an inspection of the site.
Before issuing a permit, you must be sure that the fire:
• is consistent with the relevant bushfire management plan;
• can be contained and controlled within the specified area;
• will not contain toxic materials, such as rubber tyres, plastics, and paint; and,
• will not cause an air pollution problem by producing excessive amounts of smoke.
You must also check:
• whether an appropriate authority (either the Commissioner of the RFS or the Commissioner
of the NSWFB) has issued a notice banning the issue of permits because of the seriousness of
the bush fire danger in the area;
• whether a no burn day has been declared;
• whether a total fire ban is in force; and
• the expected weather conditions.
You should also consider how many permits have been issued for burning for a particular period, as a
large number of hazard reduction burns happening at the same time may increase the risks.

Front 30

State when emergency lights and audible warning devices are to be used as set out in the Standing Orders.

Back 30

The purpose of lights and sirens (audible warning devices) is to warn other drivers and road users that
an emergency vehicle is responding to an emergency call.
Clause 32 of the Fire Brigades Regulation 2008 states:
When responding to a call to a fire, hazardous material incident or other emergency the driver of
a fire appliance must ensure that the appliance’s lights and audible warning devices are
operated to give the best practicable warning to the public.
Lights and sirens must be used when a vehicle is responding to an emergency call.

Front 31

State the NSWFB policy for proceeding through traffic signals and stop signs when responding to emergency incidents the Standing Orders

Back 31

1. With a view to avoiding serious accidents at intersections when responding to an emergency,
drivers of responding vehicles approaching a stop sign or red signal light must slow down and
enter the intersection at a speed of not more than 8 kph. Having assessed the traffic conditions,
and determined that it is safe to proceed, the driver may then continue across the intersection.
2. Whenever passing through the stop sign or red light would involve the NSWFB vehicle in an
accident, the driver must come to a halt and not move off again until it is safe to proceed.

Front 32

Standing Orders include the NSWFB policy on ‘Driving’. State the policy for wearing seatbelts.

Back 32

1. Rules 264 and 265 of the Australian Road Rules deal with the wearing of seat belts by drivers
and passengers.
2. All NSWFB employees are required to wear a seat belt, properly adjusted, when travelling in
NSWFB vehicles. Any member travelling on a vehicle (including a water tanker) is to be seated
inside the vehicle and must wear a seat belt.
3. If necessary, the seat belt provided for the seating position in the vehicle is to be adjusted/sized to
suit the member’s physical requirements at the commencement of each shift or prior to each
response.
4. Although Clause 5 of Rule 267 of the Australian Road Rules exempts the wearing of seat belts in
the rear seats of Police or emergency vehicles, employees of the NSWFB, and any authorised
passengers, are required by the NSWFB, in the interest of occupational health and safety, to wear
a seat belt.

Front 33

Standing Orders include the NSWFB policy on ‘Driving’. State the provisions for driving appliances with partly full water tanks

Back 33

If the water tank on an appliance is not full, the water in the tank can move around and change the centre
of gravity of the appliance. A change in the centre of gravity can reduce the stability and braking
performance of the appliance.
When water has been used from an appliance’s tank, the tank should, if possible, be refilled before the
appliance leaves the site.
If it is not possible to refill the tank, the reduction in stability and braking performance must be taken
into account by the driver and member in charge when driving the appliance.

Front 34

What procedures must be followed when a firefighters license is cancelled or disqualified as stated in Standing Orders?

Back 34

If you are an operational firefighter or other NSWFB employee who requires a licence to perform your
duties and you lose your licence, you must immediately submit a report to the Commissioner through
the chain of command detailing:
• the circumstances of becoming unlicensed, suspended, cancelled or disqualified and
• the period of loss of licence.
If you lost your licence due to a conviction for having the prescribed blood alcohol content or an
excessive loss of points, providing it is a first offence and there are no other complications, disciplinary
proceedings will not be initiated against you.

Front 35

What are the State Government’s procedures to be followed in respect to parking infringement notices issued to NSWFB vehicles as stated in the Standing Orders?

Back 35

The Premier has established procedures in respect of Parking Infringement Notices issued to
Government vehicles. The procedures, as set out below, are to be fully complied with by the New South
Wales Fire Brigades.
It has become the practice of some Government bodies, when Parking Infringement Notices are issued
in respect of their vehicles, to disregard such Notices. This practice has meant that Government-owned
vehicles have been treated more favourably than vehicles owned by the general public.
To overcome any suggestion in future that the Government is applying one set of rules in respect of its
vehicles and another set of rules in respect of all other vehicles, the following procedures will henceforth
apply:
• parking patrol officers and Police will continue to issue Parking Infringement Notices in
respect of any vehicles found parked illegally;
• any Government body in respect of whose vehicle a Parking Infringement Notice has been
issued shall pay the fine within the period of 21 days from the date of issue of the Notice. If
the fine is not paid within the 21-day period, the Police Force will issue a reminder letter
requiring payment within a further 21 days;
• the registered owner of any vehicle against which a Parking Infringement Notice has been
issued may invoke s.179 (3) of the Road Transport (General) Act 2005 and submit within 21
days a Statutory Declaration to the prescribed officer in the Police Force nominating the
person who was in charge of the vehicle at all relevant times relating to the parking offence.
That person then becomes liable for the offence. A Government body whose vehicle has
incurred a Parking Infringement Notice may also invoke this section. Whether a Government
body chooses to adopt this option would be a matter for it to decide, having regard to all the
circumstances of each case;
• the Government body receiving a Parking Infringement Notice may, as may any citizen in the
same circumstances, write to the Police Force seeking leniency; however, the Police Force
will only consider leniency on the same criteria which it applies to all citizens. Any request for leniency must be accompanied by documentary evidence (eg medical certificates,
mechanical certificates). Generally, the need to complete urgent business is not sufficient
grounds to have a Notice cancelled.
It is not intended that Government bodies would challenge the issue of any Parking Infringement Notice
in the courts as, to do so, would take up valuable court time.
The above changes are designed to bring into line, as far as is practicable, the procedures relating to
Government-owned vehicles and the procedures relating to vehicles owned by private individuals.
Payment of Parking Infringement Notices by Government bodies must be met from normal operating
funds. Additional funds will not be provided for these purposes.

Front 36

According to the Standing Orders, state the information that should be given to police in the event that a NSWFB vehicle is involved in an accident?

Back 36

The driver of any NSWFB vehicle involved in a crash must give the following required particulars:
• the driver’s name and address
• the name and address of the owner of the vehicle
• the vehicle’s registration number (if any), and
• Any other information necessary to identify the vehicle.
Note: When providing required particulars to police, a verbal explanation of the circumstances of the
crash must be provided.
It is NSWFB policy that the driver of any NSWFB vehicle involved in a crash and who is to provide
required particulars to the police, must also provide the following additional information to the police:
• his or her rank and station or position to which he or she is attached, and
• the fact that the vehicle was proceeding to a call of fire or other emergency (if applicable).
If the police also request a written statement, the statement must be provided to the NSWFB Senior Legal
Officer prior to it being given to the police.

Front 37

Standing Orders include the NSWFB instructions for the ‘Positioning of appliances’. State the guidelines for parking of NSWFB vehicles, using wheel chocks and parking on steep inclines.

Back 37

Wheel chocks
Where wheel chocks are supplied to appliances and are required to be used, drivers are reminded of their
responsibility to place same correctly under the appropriate side of the rear outside wheels, and to ensure
that they are removed before attempting to move the appliance for any reason.
Failure to observe the above procedures may lead to the chocks becoming wedged between the rear
double wheels of appliances with resultant severe damage to the tyres.
In Orders 1972/1
Parking on a steep incline
Officers-in-Charge of appliances are directed that when it is necessary to park on a steep incline, the
appliance must be positioned so that it is unable to move in the event of a handbrake failure.
This can be achieved in any of the following ways:
• parking the appliance with front wheels turned to the kerb;
• use of additional wheel chocks;
• by parking the appliance across the incline instead of up and down the incline.

Front 38

Standing Orders include the NSWFB policy on ‘Annual Workplace Inspections’. State the aims of annual workplace inspections and when these should be conducted each year.

Back 38

Annual occupational health and safety inspections of all fire stations and workplaces aim to:
• reduce the number of accidents by identifying hazards
• remove potential hazards
• provide an ongoing assessment of the health and safety of workplaces
• develop and promote safe working environments and practices.
• This instruction should be read in conjunction with the Occupational health and safety policy
on page 153, which sets out the responsibilities of employers and employees in managing a
safe working environment.

Front 39

Standing Orders include the NSWFB policy on ‘Annual Workplace Inspections’. What actions can be taken at station level to remove hazards?

Back 39

Actions that can be taken at the station or section to remove hazards should be carried out by the Station
Commander, Manager, Officer-in-Charge or Supervisor of the section as soon as they have been
identified.
Such actions may include:
• repair of equipment
• modifying work practices
• notification of problems to appropriate sections, eg Properties, Fleet, Communications,
Breathing Apparatus Section.
All staff in the station or section should be informed of possible hazards.
Hazards that require further investigation or greater resources should be taken up through the chain of
command. Senior Officers should investigate identified hazards and keep staff informed.

Front 40

State the provisions contained in the Standing Orders with regard to minimising response time while firefighters are involved in ‘Touch football and jogging programs’.

Back 40

To minimise response time from the exercise area:
• Position the appliance ready to respond, in a safe and convenient location.
• Leave one firefighter with the appliance at all times to monitor the radio and ensure the
security of equipment and accoutrements.
• Restrict the exercise to an area in which participants are in full view and within range
of the appliance’s siren.
• Confine the jogging circuit area to a maximum of approximately 400 metres.
• Wherever possible turnout gear should be individually placed close to or on the
appliance to minimise response time.
• If there is a call, the detailed firefighter at the appliance, after alerting the crew, must
find the correct location in the directory while the others are dressing.

Front 41

Standing Orders include information about ‘Hose and hose fittings’. State the factors that should be considered when assessing the viability of having hose repaired.

Back 41

• age and condition of hose
• number of holes previously patched
• number of holes requiring patching at any one time.
• length of hose which is required to be cut back
• size and location of hole
• type of fault - blown/grazed/burnt.

Front 42

State the aims of the NSWFB Drug and Alcohol Policy as described in the Standing Orders.

Back 42

• to eliminate the hazards associated with drugs and alcohol
• to facilitate the health, safety and welfare of firefighters
• to ensure the safety of the public and the community
• to be an integral part of the occupational health and safety strategy
• to provide support and fairness through support, counselling and rehabilitation
• to encourage and support precautionary measures.

Front 43

List the procedures to be followed by the NSW Fire brigades when responding to lockouts, as set out in Standing Orders

Back 43

1. When the NSWFB receives a call to a lock out and there is a risk to life and property, the
NSWFB will respond to the incident as a fire, hazmat or rescue incident, as appropriate.
2. There is no requirement under the Fire Brigades Act 1989 for the NSWFB to respond to
situations where there is no threat of injury or death to people or damage to property.
3. Locksmiths are the appropriate people to be called in most lock out situations. Their services are
widely available and many provide a 24 hour service.
4. When a request is received for assistance at a lock out, or when firefighters arrive at an incident
and it is found to be a lock out, the Communications Operator or Incident Controller must
consider whether there is a risk of a person being injured or damage to property before taking
action.
5. Unless such a risk is present, the NSWFB will not assist in gaining entry to the property.
6. If there is no threat to people or property, firefighters should explain that it is not the NSWFB’s
role to respond to lock outs, and advise the caller to contact a locksmith.
7. Firefighters should make every effort to assist the caller to locate a locksmith.

Front 44

What exemptions do retained firefighters have when responding in private vehicles to emergency incidents as detailed in the Standing Orders?

Back 44

A retained firefighter who has received a call and is responding to the station or to an incident in a
privately owned vehicle has no exemption from the Australian Road Rules and must observe the road
rules applicable to all drivers.

Front 45

How much notice is required when applying for consolidated leave as set out in Standing Orders?

Back 45

1.1 Except as provided for in 1.2, permanent firefighters must apply for consolidated leave at least 24
hours in advance.
1.2 In exceptional circumstances, the Operational Commander may grant leave on short notice if a
replacement is available or a recall can be arranged.

Front 46

What information is to be given to the ‘injured party’ at an accident involving a NSWFB appliance as set out in Standing Orders?

Back 46

• the driver’s name and address
• the name and address of the owner of the vehicle
• the vehicle’s registration number (if any), and
• Any other information necessary to identify the vehicle.

Front 47

What is the procedure for reversing a brigade appliance as contained in Standing Orders?

Back 47

The driver of a NSWFB vehicle must obtain the assistance of another person when reversing the vehicle.
The driver must operate the vehicle at an appropriate speed to reduce the chance of collision and ensure
safety.

Front 48

The standing orders identify The Memorandum of understanding between the NSW Fire Brigades and the NSW Rural Fire Service and provides a link to this documentation. As per this MOU, which officer will be the Incident Controller at a joint operation, involving structure fires, within a rural fire district?

Back 48

Senior RFS Officer

Front 49

The standing orders identify The Memorandum of understanding between the NSW Fire Brigades and the NSW Rural Fire Service and provides a link to this documentation. As per this MOU, who has operational jurisdiction for all fires except those identified as hazardous materials incidents, within a rural fire district?

Back 49

RFS

Front 50

The standing orders identify The Memorandum of understanding between the NSW Fire Brigades and the NSW Rural Fire Service and provides a link to this documentation. As per this MOU, who has the operational jurisdiction for all fire and related incidents in a NSWFB fire district?

Back 50

Senior NSWFB Officer

Front 51

What services does the Critical Incident Support Program provide for members of the NSWFB and their families as described in Standing Orders?

Back 51

• attendance at major incidents involving multiple fatalities or prolonged exposure
• one to one sessions, follow up calls
• on scene support, defusing, demobilisation
• group debriefing
• referral to professional counselling, and
• ongoing support.

Front 52

What is the procedure for reporting a workplace injury as detailed in the Standing Orders?

Back 52

When a work related injury, illness, exposure or near miss occurs you need to complete a Notification of
injury, illness, exposure and near miss (NIIENM) form, available on Station Portal.

Front 53

You are asked to describe the procedures for Ambulance officers and other members of emergency services in regards to wearing breathing apparatus. State your answer to this inquiry outlining the operational guidelines “Wearing of SCABA by untrained personnel” contained in the Standing Orders

Back 53

Where incidents occur necessitating persons from outside the NSWFB accompanying firefighters into a
vitiated atmosphere then those persons may enter such atmosphere suitably attired and dressed in an
extension face mask.
To further ensure safety, the main BA Control must be advised so that the air supplies may be monitored
and back-up crews, correctly attired, maintained on standby in case of emergency.

Front 54

There will be times when responding to incidents where it is necessary for the appliance to traverse railway lines. State Brigade procedures when crossing railway lines and level crossings as detailed in the Standing Orders.

Back 54

Drivers of NSWFB vehicles must only drive across railways and tramlines at authorised crossing places
such as level crossings and must comply with NSW Road Rules 120 to 124 at all times, even when using
lights and sirens.
You must comply with Stop and Give Way signs and give way to any train or tram on, approaching or
entering the crossing.
You must not enter a level crossing if:
• warning lights (eg twin red lights or rotating red lights) are operating or warning bells are
ringing
• a gate, boom or barrier at the crossing is closed or is opening or closing
• a train or tram is on or entering the crossing
• a train or tram approaching the crossing can be seen from the crossing, or is sounding a
warning, and there would be a danger of a collision with the train or tram if the driver entered
the crossing, or
• you cannot drive through the crossing because the crossing, or a road beyond the crossing, is
blocked.
You must leave a level crossing as soon as you can do so safely.

Front 55

State the entitlement for fireground refreshments as set out in the Standing Orders

Back 55

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Front 56

State the methods of identification of cordage as contained in the Standing Orders.

Back 56

To assist in the identification and recovery of the NSWFB’s property/equipment it is necessary that such
property/equipment be clearly marked with the distinguishing letters ‘NSWFB’ together with such
numbers and/or letters as are appropriate to the item. The use of permanent markings and barcoded labels
is now a NSWFB system.

Front 57

What are the 'Duties of casual pumper driver' as detailed in the Standing Orders?

Back 57

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Front 58

State the hand signals in use as detailed in the Standing Orders

Back 58

1. A vertical movement of the hand and arm (uniform to signal 1 lamp signal), meaning: water on
2. A horizontal movement of one hand and arm across the body (uniform to signal 2 lamp signal),
meaning: water off
3. A circular movement of one arm in front of the body (uniform to signal 3 lamp signal), meaning:
general assembly
4. A short repeated upward movement of the hand and arm with the palm of the hand facing up,
meaning: increase water pressure by 100 kPa
5. A short repeated downward movement of the hand and arm with the palm of the hand facing
down, meaning: decrease water pressure by 100 kPa
6. Arm held extended at shoulder height palm of the hand facing the person receiving the message,
meaning: stop immediately
All hand signals with the exception of general assembly to be repeated by the recipient to acknowledge
receipt of signal and understanding.

Front 59

State the priorities of the NSWFB operational risk management policy as set out in the Standing Orders.

Back 59

The Incident Controller must continuously monitor and evaluate the level of risk at an incident. Once the
level of risk has been determined, the Incident Controller decides how to employ crews, bearing in mind
that:
• the first priority is the safety of firefighters,
• the second priority is protecting savable lives,
• the third priority is protecting savable property, and
• there is no advantage in committing resources to save what is already lost.
All personnel, not just command staff, must take this policy into consideration at every emergency
incident. It does not preclude offensive operations to minimise the loss of life and property, but provides
a framework for overall strategies and tactics while keeping safety as the first consideration.
For an example of how this policy applies to a particular type of incident, see Standard Operational
Guideline 4.2 Structure fire risks and precautions.

Front 60

State the guidelines regarding where assistance is required from Non-Operational Personnel at emergency Incidents as contained in the Standing Orders.

Back 60

Incident Controllers occasionally need to use the skills and experience of non-operational personnel to
assist in rendering safe an emergency incident. These people may include non-uniformed NSWFB
employees, eg Logistics Support fitters and mechanics, or non-NSWFB personnel, such as medical
specialists, engineers, plant operators and managers, people from other attending agencies (such as the
NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water or WorkCover), or representatives of
energy and utility suppliers, such as Energy Australia, Integral Energy, AGL and Sydney Water.
The following guidelines are provided to assist Incident Controllers in circumstances where assistance
is required from non-operational personnel at emergency incidents.
1. Ensure that operational staff direct all non-operational personnel to report to the Incident Control
Point in the first instance.
2. Exclude all non-operational personnel from the identified combat zone.
3. The Incident Controller should avoid using non-operational personnel in any area where they
might be subjected to danger, unless their assistance is essential to the management or activities
of the incident.
4. Transmit an informative message upon the arrival of authorised non-operational personnel
detailing their location and the activities they will undertake, so that this information is properly
logged for future reference.
5. Record and monitor the attendance, location and activities of any authorised non-operational
personnel.
Note: see also Standard Operational Guidelines 18.1, Incident Crew Management System, and
4.9, Wardens and emergency response teams.
6. The function of any authorised non-operational personnel must be clearly defined and
understood by all members of the Incident Management Team.
7. Ensure that non-operational personnel who need to enter a combat zone are accompanied by two
NSWFB firefighters and kept under close supervision.
8. The Incident Controller should ensure that if the assistance of non-operational personnel within
the combat zone is essential, steps must be taken to ensure they do not enter areas where personal
protective equipment (PPE) is required. If, however, it is essential that they enter such areas, an
appropriate level of PPE must be provided and worn by the non-operational personnel,
commensurate with the PPE worn by operational firefighters in the same area.
Note: It is preferable that non-operational personnel provide their own PPE. However, if their
PPE is inadequate, Incident Controllers must either exclude them from the combat zone or
provide NSWFB PPE to them (See also Personal protective equipment entry control at
incidents and training on page 72).
9. Once non-operational personnel have completed their specified task(s) they must be immediately
withdrawn from the combat zone.
10. Transmit an informative message detailing the departure of authorised non-operational personnel
from the incident.

Front 61

List 10 matters which need to be regularly assessed for people to be confident they are in properly prepared homes as detailed in the Bushfire Risk Management section of Standing Orders dealing with Bushfire evacuations.

Back 61

• ground fuels cleared away from the house,
• gutters cleared,
• roofing firmly fixed and eaves boxed,
• firebreaks prepared (where appropriate),
• metal screens or shutters installed and underfloor areas enclosed,
• vents into roof space screened,
• combustible items removed from around the house,
• branches over hanging the house or outbuildings are removed,
• LPG cylinders vented away from the house,
• hoses long enough to reach all sides of the house,
• where it could be likely that water pressures may be insufficient, a portable pump may
be required, and
• buckets and static water (eg a bathtub) available.

Front 62

From Section 2 of the Station Management Section of the Standing Orders List the six duties that are considered time critical performed duties

Back 62

1. An over-riding obligation to immediately respond to emergency calls.
2. Pre-operational checks, servicing, fuelling and cleaning of all personal protective and other
operational equipment including self contained breathing apparatus, permanently staffed
appliances, ancillary equipment, etc, at commencement of each shift, or in accordance with
established NSWFB policy.
3. Post-operational checks, servicing, cleaning, and decontamination of all personal protective and
other operational equipment including self contained breathing apparatus, permanently staffed
appliances, ancillary equipment, etc, following use and before ceasing duty.
4. Subject to response workload, a minimum of 6 hours skills maintenance and/or acquisition
training during each set of 4 shifts (A,B, C, D, E and F Platoons), or 5 shifts (Monday to Friday
roster).
5. Recording of fire prevention, fire safety, and response activities on AIRS or the Community
Activity Reporting System; and
6. Administrative tasks including submission of injury reports, timesheets etc.

Front 63

List six of the Station Commanders Responsibilities for the management of NSWFB keys as set out in standing orders.

Back 63

• maintaining the security of NSWFB premises they are responsible for
• authorising the issue of keys to staff, volunteers, contractors or other people they are
responsible for
• maintaining an up-to-date Station key register and completing twice yearly audits to ensure
that the register is accurate and no keys have been lost or stolen
• ensuring that keys are returned when a key holder leaves or changes position
• ensuring that Key transfer forms are completed each time a key is returned to, or re-issued by,
the station and sent to Property Services as soon as possible
• immediately reporting lost or stolen keys to their chain of command and Property Services

Front 64

List the four stages of USAR taskforce mobilisation as detailed in the Standing Orders.

Back 64

• Alert stage,
• Stand by stage,
• Call out stage, and
• Stand down stage.

Front 65

State the reporting procedures to be followed when you identify a fire safety concern during normal duties, or if one is reported by a member of the public as detailed in the Standing Orders.

Back 65

3.2 Fire safety concerns identified at other times
If you identify a fire safety concern during normal duties, or if one is reported by a member of the public:
• record the details in the Occurrence Book
• complete the Fire Safety Concerns Reporting Form which is available on the Intranet in the
filing cabinet in Station Portal, and
• send the form to the Structural Fire Safety Unit by electronic mail or fax.
Note: If the matter is urgent, such as locked fire exits in a night club or hotel, and it is outside normal
business hours, contact your Communication Centre and have them notify the Manager
Structural Fire Safety or the on-call authorised Fire Safety Officer.
4

Front 66

Whilst at work you have a recurrence of a work-related injury. State the procedures to be followed as given in the Standing Orders.

Back 66

If you have a recurrence of a work-related injury, you should report this to your supervisor without delay.
You will then need to complete an Allianz TMF Employees’ Workers’ Compensation Claim form and
attach a report which:
• describes the original injury,
• gives the date of recurrence, and
• outlines the circumstances surrounding the recurrence.
Your supervisor must then sign the form and send all the paperwork to the Workers’ Compensation
Section in Head Office within 24 hours.
Unless requested by the Workers’ Compensation Section, your supervisor does not need to complete the
Employer’s Report of Injury Form.

Front 67

A member of the public wishes to prepare food on a gas fired or electric appliance during a total fire ban. State the instructions that you would give to this member of the public as detailed in the Standing Orders.

Back 67

Schedule 11 - Electric or gas barbeques
1. Fire lit, maintained or used for the purpose of food preparation on an electric appliance provided
that:
a. the appliance is under the direct control of a responsible adult person, present at all times
while it is operating;
b. no combustible material of any kind is allowed within two metres of the appliance while it
is operating;
2. Fire lit, maintained or used for the purpose of food preparation on a gas fired appliance provided
that:
a. the appliance is under the direct control of a responsible adult person, present at all times
while it is operating;
b. no combustible material of any kind is allowed within two metres of the appliance while it
is operating;
c. a system of applying an adequate stream of water to the appliance and its surrounds is
available for immediate and continuous use; and
(i) the appliance is located on land on which is erected a permanent private dwelling
and is not more than twenty metres from that dwelling; or
(ii) where the appliance is not on land on which is erected a permanent private dwelling,
both the appliance and the land on which it is located have been approved for the
purpose by:
• the council of the area or:
• if the land is acquired or reserved under the National Parks and Wildlife Act
1974, the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service; or
• if the land is within a state forest, State Forests of NSW.

Front 68

State the procedures to remove a kidney dialysis machine to safety in an emergency situation as detailed in Standing Orders.

Back 68

Dialysis machines
Emergency procedures
1 Procedure to remove a patient from a kidney (dialysis) machine during an
emergency situation within a residential environment
1.1 On arrival analyse the situation and request the appropriate response from the NSW Ambulance
Service.
1.2 Reassure the patient should the situation allow.
1.3 Take both self locking clamps from the top of the kidney machine and apply one to each of the
two tubes approximately 50 mm from the patient’s body. This will prevent the flow of blood.
Note: In some circumstances there are clamps as an integral part of the tubes, and it only requires
slight pressure to depress these clamps to prevent the flow of blood.
1.4 With a pair of scissors cut both tubes on the kidney machine side of the clamps and discard the
remainder of the tubing to the kidney machine.
1.5 Remove the patient to safety.
1.6 The Ambulance Service to treat patient and convey to hospital.
2 Procedures to remove a kidney (dialysis) machine to safety in an emergency
situation
2.1 Switch off electricity supply at power point and remove plug.
2.2 Turn off water supply where the machine is connected to the domestic supply.
2.3 Disconnect water supply by unscrewing couplings of flexible hose.
2.4 Remove machine to safety.

Front 69

State the procedures that should be followed to minimise the risk of infection when handling animals as detailed in the Standing Orders.

Back 69

This instruction provides guidance on minimising the risk of infection from handling animals.
1. Firefighters should treat all animals as if they are carrying a disease. Animals can carry a number
of diseases, including salmonella bacteria which research has shown is carried by almost all
animals, particularly reptiles and amphibians. Ingesting salmonella bacteria causes diarrhoea,
nausea, fever and discomfort.
2. Wear adequate PPE when there is a risk of contacting animals, or their secretions, or being bitten
or scratched. The minimum requirement is gloves and a long-sleeved workshirt or bushfire
jacket, with the sleeves rolled down and buttoned. Eye protection (goggles or helmet and visor)
and respiratory protection should also be considered.
3. Firefighters must wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling animals, and
after handling materials or equipment that have been in contact with an animal.
4. Remove and decontaminate any items of PPE contaminated by animal secretions such as urine,
blood, saliva or faeces.
5. Clean contaminated equipment as per the BA disinfection procedure in Standard Operational
Guideline No 9.3, Breathing apparatus servicing.

Front 70

Outline the procedures for sharps collection as detailed in the OH&S Section of the Standing Orders.

Back 70

5 Procedure for sharps collection
5.1 Wear appropriate personal protective equipment including:
• firefighting boots (at incidents) or other appropriate closed footwear
• rubber gloves under firefighting gloves.
5.2 Get the sharps container and tongs from the appliance.
5.3 Take the sharps container to the location of the sharp and place it on the ground.
5.4 Use the tongs to pick up the sharp.
5.5 Carefully place the sharp directly into the container. If the sharp jams, gently agitate the
container to allow smooth entry. Do not force the needle into the container. Do not put your hand
in the container.
5.6 Place the lid back firmly on the container to seal. To reduce the possibility of injury, ensure that
no container is filled to more than three-quarters full.
5.7 Place the container back in its designated storage space on the appliance.
5.8 Take the sharps container to the local hospital or ambulance station for disposal.
Note: Station Commanders should ensure that local arrangements are in place for sharps
disposal.
5.9 Place the spare sharps container on the appliance and order a new one from ESCAT.

Front 71

State the response procedures when attempting to retrieve a reptile as detailed in the Standing Orders.

Back 71

Reptile handling and awareness
1 Policy
The retrieval of reptiles from areas of public gathering and private dwellings is a community service
provided to the public by selected fire stations of the NSWFB.
2 Accreditation
The State Rescue Board’s training advisory panel has determined that reptile retrieval is not a rescue
incident under the State Emergency and Rescue Management Act 1989 and therefore does not require
accreditation by the Minister.
3 Eligible stations
Only stations that have a documented history of requests for reptile retrieval may request training. This
will require the endorsement of the relevant Zone Commander. Station training is coordinated through
the Training Manager, in consultation with the Rescue Section.
4 Application
Due to the nature of these incidents, firefighters will be involved in reptile retrieval on a voluntary basis
only. These guidelines cover firefighters who elect to be involved in reptile retrieval and are attached to
the identified stations.
5 Training and equipment
When undertaking reptile retrievals, participating firefighters must:
• have satisfactorily completed the NSWFB’s approved training course and continue to
maintain their competency through annual recertification
• be equipped with approved retrieval equipment
• have a current WorkCover approved first aid qualification, and
• ensure a ‘No Touch’ protocol is adhered to.
6 Risk assessment and first aid
Before undertaking a reptile retrieval, the following must be in place:
• a current ‘Risk Assessment’ is in place and communicated to all present (forms are available
from the Rescue Section)
• at least one person present, not being the firefighter involved in the reptile retrieval, has a
current WorkCover approved first aid qualification, and
• the appliance first aid kit, complete with a suitable pressure bandage, must be suitably located
during the reptile retrieval so as to provide immediate first aid treatment in the event of a bite.
7 Response procedures
When attending to retrieve a reptile, the following procedures apply.
7.1 The fire appliance must proceed under normal road conditions to the retrieval site.
7.2 A minimum of two appropriately trained firefighters must be available.
7.3 The availability of communications with the nearest NSWFB Communication Centre or the
Triple Zero network must be confirmed.

Front 72

List the eight conditions of use for exercise equipment on NSWFB premises, as set out in the OH&S Section of the Standing Orders.

Back 72

• Only NSWFB personnel are permitted to use exercise equipment in NSWFB facilities.
• The exercise equipment must be used for the purpose and in the manner for which it
was designed.
• All dumbbells must be returned to their storage position after use and weight plates
removed from barbells and returned to their storage rack. This is primarily to prevent
injury to others.
• Stationary exercise equipment which is not fitted with wheels (with the exception of
freestanding incline/decline exercise benches) is not to be moved without the approval
of the Health and Fitness Officer for the Zone.
• Personnel must use their own towel to cover body contact surfaces of the exercise
equipment.
• Power points supplying exercise equipment must be switched off when equipment is
not in use.
• Personnel must wear appropriate gym attire. This includes closed toe footwear and a Tshirt/
singlet.
• NSWFB employees using approved external gymnasium facilities must limit usage to
resistance training and cardiovascular equipment. Other facilities including swimming
pools, spas, saunas and racquet sport courts are not to be used while on duty.

Front 73

The NSW Fire Brigades (NSWFB) is committed to the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and workplace diversity. What commitments does the NSWFB aim to meet as detailed in the Personnel section of the Standing Orders?

Back 73

Equal Employment Opportunity is a management policy by which human resources management
activities are carried out so as to ensure that for each vacancy, people with equal probability of success
have equal probability of being appointed, or promoted to the vacancy. Any characteristic not related to
job performance, such as a person’s race, sex, marital status, homosexuality, disability or age, must not
be allowed to impact on the selection process.
EEO refers to the right of each individual to be considered for a job for which that person is skilled and
qualified.
It means that the best person for the job is employed. This increases the efficiency of the NSWFB. The
principle of recruitment and promotion on merit is fundamental to EEO.
The Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 requires government agencies to prepare EEO Management Plans
with specific goals. The NSW legislation does not require the achievement of quotas. The NSWFB’s
EEO and Diversity Management Plan includes affirmative action strategies which are positive steps
towards eradicating discrimination. Programs are designed to counteract the continuing impact of past
discrimination on four target groups: women, Aboriginal people, people with a disability and people of
non-English speaking background. The EEO and Diversity Management Plan has employment strategies
on recruitment, selection procedures, training and staff development and conditions of service.