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Troy, NY firefighter union leader challenges suspension linked to safety concerns over state-led training

October 29, 2024

Firefighter leader challenges suspension following safety concerns

Eric Wisher, president of the Troy Uniformed Firefighters Association, Local 86, is contesting a 15-day unpaid suspension issued by the Troy Fire Department.

The suspension, stemming from Wisher’s refusal to participate in a training exercise led by the state Office of Fire Prevention and Control (OFPC), has prompted discussions around firefighter safety standards in New York, as reported by Times Union.

Wisher declined to join a training activity, citing safety concerns and what he referred to as questionable competency by the OFPC.

He said: “The competency of OFPC is a significant issue. I am very aware of the risk of being a firefighter — however, no training exercise should result in loss of life or severe injury.

“It’s not clear to me whether the city of Troy or the state of New York take that same position.”

Fire department emphasizes training necessity amid safety concerns

The exercise Wisher declined was designed to build firefighter confidence in mask use, a critical component for operational safety, according to Fire Chief Rich Cellucci.

Cellucci underscored the importance of compliance in such training, stating: “The training in question, developed by fellow firefighters, is designed to build mask confidence and ensure the safe operation of lifesaving equipment.

“Participation in such training is not optional. It is essential for the safety of each firefighter and their colleagues.”

While the fire department emphasizes the necessity of these training sessions, the union has highlighted a pattern of injuries in OFPC-led exercises, bringing the effectiveness and safety of such programs under review.

Past injuries and lawsuit amplify union’s safety concerns

Concerns over OFPC training safety are not new.

According to the union, multiple injuries have been reported during OFPC sessions, including a 2021 fatality involving Watertown firefighter Peyton Morse at the Montour Falls Fire Training Academy.

Following his death, Morse’s family filed a lawsuit against New York State in 2023, seeking accountability for what they allege were unsafe training conditions.

Additionally, five Troy firefighters were reportedly hospitalized after an accident on September 14, 2023, at the Colonie Fire Training Tower, where an instructor-led session was conducted by OFPC.

The union stated in a joint release with Wisher that “numerous Troy firefighters have also been hurt in the training in the past.”

Union takes legal action over suspension and training protocols

As Wisher pursues an appeal through a hearing under the Firefighters Bill of Rights Statute, the Troy Uniformed Firefighters Association has filed a complaint with the state Public Employment Relations Board.

The complaint argues that the OFPC training was implemented without consultation with the union and alleges that the suspension is an act of retaliation linked to Wisher’s union involvement.

Representing Wisher and the union in this case is attorney Nathaniel Lambright of Blitman & King.

The union asserts that the lack of engagement over training protocols and the suspension’s timing raise important questions regarding firefighter safety and labor rights.

Troy firefighter union leader challenges suspension over safety concerns: Summary

Eric Wisher, president of the Troy Uniformed Firefighters Association in New York, is contesting a suspension over his refusal to participate in a state-led training exercise, which he believes posed safety risks.

Wisher cited issues with the Office of Fire Prevention and Control’s training program, raising questions about firefighter safety standards in Troy.

Fire Chief Rich Cellucci defended the program as necessary for firefighter operational readiness.

The union has long voiced concerns over OFPC-led training, pointing to injuries in recent years and a fatality in 2021.

The union has filed a formal complaint, alleging that Wisher’s suspension was retaliatory.

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