YOUNGSTOWN - Youngstown firefighters allege they haven't received proper training and PPE when it comes to the department operating during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Youngstown City Law Director Jeff Limbian said in a press release, the city was notified by the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation that violations of occupational health and safety standards had been alleged within the Youngstown Fire Department.

Youngstown Firefighters Union IAFF 312 have filed multiple complaints with the state alleging health violations and overall PPE shortages related to the COVID-19 pandemic

Union members also say they never received proper training in cleaning and using respirators.

Union President Charlie Smith said in a statement, "Since February IAFF 312 has made multiple attempts to work with Chief Finley to protect our firefighters from exposure to COVID-19. His continued lack of interest in complying with industry standards for personal protective equipment and respiratory protection left
us no choice but to file a complaint with the state's Public Employee Risk Reduction Program."

Smith specifically cites four violations, alleging no standard operating procedures in place for COVID-19 emergencies; inadequate PPE training provided; required FIT testing for N95 masks was never performed; and that there is no respiratory protection program in place. 

However, Limbian said Fire Chief Barry Finley has been diligent throughout the pandemic to ensure the safety of firefighters.

Limbian cites several instances where Chief Finley sent a handbook detailing guidance to all firefighters and included video instruction and training for the selection and use of personal protective equipment.

"As soon as N95 masks were available to the Youngstown Fire Department, Chief Finley distributed the masks to the department for use," said Limbian. "The chief has provided guidance on how to clean and disinfect the workplace and the department's specialized equipment."

Limbian says the city is in the process of investigating the allegations and working with the workers' compensation bureau to ensure full compliance.