Professional Volunteer Fire Department: Navigating OSHA’s Proposed Safety Standards

 

 

Fire service veteran Dave Denniston joins host Tom Merrill to revisit the ongoing discussion about OSHA’s proposed overhaul of the past fire brigade standard. This episode breaks down key challenges faced by volunteer fire departments—ranging from the impact of incorporating over 1,500 NFPA standards to concerns about manpower, funding, and administrative burdens. Denniston shares insights from his testimony before the House Homeland Security Subcommittee and highlights the collective effort between career and volunteer organizations to shape a workable, effective safety standard. The discussion reinforces the importance of close communities; vulnerability assessments; and realistic risk management strategies tailored specifically to individual capabilities. Despite political shifts, the proposed regulations remain a pressing issue with the potential to transform firefighter safety nationwide. Volunteers are encouraged to stay informed, engage with elected officials, and work collectively to influence a ruling that supports all firefighters without compromising the volunteer spirit.