Cracks in the steel support structures of the lockers have been discovered on two MAN type-3 fire trucks and FENZ is now instigating an inspection programme to check all 47 trucks.

FENZ has notified the NZPFU that the advice from a heavy vehicle engineer that the issue does not pose a safety issue for crews or the public.

The cracks in the steel elements that provide support to the bodywork which contains the lockers, and are not in the MAN chassis. Each of the 47 MAN type-3 trucks will be inspected and it is expected the check will only take a hour or two. If there are cracks, or a concern that the locker support structure may be compromised, the truck will be removed from service with a relief appliance provided.

FENZ has advised that a solution to redesigning and replacing the cracked elements of the steel support structure is underway and this will be peer reviewed by an independent heavy vehicle engineer before the new design is confirmed and installed.

FENZ has assured the NZPFU that the programme to inspect the fleet is a priority and will be done with urgency.

FENZ will provide updates on the inspection programme including which trucks have trucks or concerns with the locker support structure.

We will keep members informed of the inspection programme and results, and any subsequent issues arising from taking trucks offline for repairs.

In unity,
Wattie Watson
National Secretary