The Fire Services Department (FSD) has been purchasing new protection and communications equipment to better protect frontline firemen, Secretary for Security Ambrose Lee told legislators yesterday.

He said that the FSD has spent HK$1.3 million on new anti-flash hoods that are in compliance with the latest international safety standard for all frontline firemen.

In 2009, the FSD will also spend HK$45 million to purchase new oxygen apparatuses and advanced electronic devices to give a clear indication of remaining oxygen in the cylinders.

As for communication equipment, the FSD purchased 53 radios at a cost of HK$960,000 in October, and each major pump vehicle is now equipped with an additional radio set.

The FSD has also commissioned the Electrical & Mechanical Services Department to study the feasibility of upgrading the existing analog system and replacing it with a digital system with better communication capabilities.

Lee made his points in reply to an oral question at the Legislative Council meeting.

The questions were raised by unionist lawmaker Leung Yiu-chung, who expressed concerns about the protective gear and radio equipment used by the firefighters after two died recently.

In response to recent calls from firemen for a salary raise, the security chief said at the same meeting that the salary grade of fireman is comparable to, and not lower than, similar grades in the disciplined services.

The Standing Commission on Disciplined Services Salaries and Conditions of Services is conducting a grade structure review for the disciplined services, including the fireman grade, with one of the purposes of the review being whether the pay and conditions of services are appropriate and whether they should be adjusted.

(HK Edition 11/06/2008 page1)