The Fire Committee met on Tuesday 17 March 2026 to discuss the wellbeing of London's firefighters and the risks associated with fire contaminants. Key discussions included the progress made on implementing recommendations from the Nazir Afzal review, the challenges faced by firefighters regarding mental health, and the ongoing efforts to mitigate exposure to harmful contaminants. The committee also reviewed the London Fire Brigade's (LFB) strategies for addressing these issues and considered future policy directions.

Progress on the Nazir Afzal Review and Firefighter Wellbeing

London Fire Commissioner Jonathan Smith reported positive progress on the recommendations from the Nazir Afzal review, citing a reduction in bullying, harassment, and discrimination figures between 2024 and 2025. He noted that these statistics compare favourably to other fire and rescue services and public sector organisations. The LFB has also been lifted out of engaged measures by His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS), indicating significant improvements in its culture and operations.

However, Assembly Member Hina Bokhari OBE raised concerns about the lack of a dedicated follow-up review specifically assessing progress on the Nazir Afzal recommendations, despite similar reviews being conducted for the Metropolitan Police. Commissioner Smith explained that while HMICFRS inspections would cover the organisation's culture and leadership, they would not specifically evaluate the 23 recommendations from the Afzal review. He stated that the LFB is currently focused on the upcoming HMICFRS inspection and will consider further reviews if necessary.

The committee also delved into the mental health challenges faced by firefighters. Dr Carolina Campodonico's survey of over 4,900 firefighters revealed high rates of trauma exposure, with over half experiencing mental health consequences. Sleep disturbances, anxiety, depression, and burnout were identified as significant concerns. Professor Rowena Hill MBE highlighted that occupational stressors, rather than just traumatic events, are a major factor, and that the transition to management roles can be particularly challenging. The FBU's Gareth Cook emphasised the impact of the cost of living crisis and societal pressures on firefighters' wellbeing.

The LFB's Deputy Commissioner, Spencer Sutcliff, stated that while the overall sickness rate for stress, anxiety, and depression is around two per cent, it remains a significant concern. He noted that increased openness about mental health challenges may be contributing to higher reported numbers. The LFB has a comprehensive wellbeing offer, including an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) and an accredited internal counselling service. However, the committee heard that more tailored support for specific occupational groups, such as control room staff, and a greater emphasis on peer support within the 'IGLOO' framework (Individual, Group, Leader, Organisation, Outside) are needed.

Firefighter Exposure to Contaminants and Cancer Risk

The committee discussed the growing concern over firefighters' exposure to contaminants and the potential link to increased cancer risk. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) designated firefighting as an occupation that is carcinogenic in July 2023. Professor Anna Stec presented research indicating higher rates of cancer incidence and mortality among UK firefighters, with preliminary findings from a health monitoring study showing abnormal tumour markers in a significant percentage of firefighters.

While the exact causal links are still being researched, the committee heard that the sheer volume of fires in London could lead to cumulative exposure risks. Professor Stec noted that current UK regulations, such as the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) regulations 1988, focus on fire spread and ignition time rather than the toxicity of combustion products, potentially increasing exposure to harmful substances.

The LFB has developed a Fire Contaminants Policy (PN1000) in 2022, which has led to significant changes in operational procedures and station practices, including designated clean and contaminated zones. However, concerns were raised about the consistent implementation of this policy, with the FBU highlighting potential gaps in training and logistical issues with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

The committee recommended that the UK Government and the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) establish a UK-wide firefighter exposure and health monitoring programme by 2027. They also recommended that the LFB pilot its own exposure monitoring programme to better understand individual and cumulative exposures. Furthermore, the Industrial Injuries Advisory Council (IIAC) was urged to review the evidence on cancer risks associated with firefighting, given new research and the IARC designation.

PPE and Fire Station Design

Issues with the provision and availability of PPE were highlighted, with LFB experiencing significant shortages in mid-2025. While these issues have reportedly been resolved, the committee stressed the need for future-proofed PPE contracts that account for increased cleaning frequency and higher stock levels. The LFB is piloting RFID tags to improve PPE management.

The design and layout of many fire stations were identified as a challenge in minimising cross-contamination. The committee recommended that LFB update its Fire Station Design Standards to reflect the Fire Contaminants Policy, ensuring that upgrades minimise contamination risks.

Other Matters Discussed

The committee also touched upon the regulation of e-bikes and e-scooters, with Commissioner Smith noting a significant increase in e-bike fires. He called for government consultation on secondary legislation to improve product safety. Discussions also covered the Community Risk Management Plan, with a review of KPIs underway, and the ongoing work related to building safety regulations and the role of the Building Safety Regulator. The committee noted the importance of ensuring that Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) are fit for purpose and adequately protect disabled residents.

The meeting concluded with thanks to the guests and a note on the date of the next meeting, which will be determined by the London Assembly's annual meeting in May 2026.