July 22, 2014
The Queensland Fire and Emergency Services are looking for a special type of volunteer to join their ranks … scientists.
The QFES is looking for people who hold a scientific qualification to join volunteers across Queensland in protecting life and property.
QFES Scientific Branch Inspector Raymond Bott said hazardous materials incidents often posed significant difficulties to emergency responders.
And while the QFES had permanent staff situated in south-east Queensland, the Scientific Branch also drew on the services of volunteers in other areas of the State who were local, suitably qualified professionals – typically chemists or chemical engineers – to provide prompt, at-the-scene response to emergency incidents involving chemical hazards.
“When hazmat emergencies occur anywhere across Queensland, responders need accurate scientific information to identify the hazardous materials involved and any current or future hazards these materials and the situation may present to both emergency responders and the community,” he said.
“These volunteer specialists come from private industry, local authorities and tertiary institutions across Queensland.”
- More information and an application kit is available online
