'SAFETY critical' concerns have been raised over the effectiveness of replacement fire crews at HMNB Clyde brought in as cover for workers taking part in strike action.

Fire and rescue workers at Faslane and Coulport have been involved in industrial action since mid-September in a dispute over job cuts with employer Capita.

An overtime ban started on September 16 and six-hour strike action has been taking place on various days since October 19, with union bosses raising concerns over the resilience crews brought in to cover that they may not have the competencies to deal with unique safety critical assets, and risks related to maritime fire-fighting and nuclear radiation.

Capita won the contract in 2020 for fire response services from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and has been accused of slashing 15 per cent of the specialist fire safety workforce at the bases - with the firm claiming that only four workers have left their positions, all on voluntary terms, as opposed to the eight job cuts suggested by Unite.

Sharon Graham, Unite general secretary, said: “Industrial action by Unite members on the Clyde has been taken in direct response to cuts in crew levels and ongoing safety critical concerns.

"Capita should be under no illusions that Unite is determined to fight to defend the jobs, pay and conditions of our members.

"So, these workers will have the full force of Unite behind them as they seek to protect not only workers on the bases but local communities.”

Debbie Hutchings, Unite industrial officer, said: “Unite has major concerns over the effectiveness and competence of the replacement crews being brought into cover during periods of industrial action at the Clyde naval bases.

"We have contacted the MoD with a list of our concerns, and want assurances that they are addressed, specifically, over the necessary standards of training that are expected on site.

"If we do not receive these assurances then it opens up the real possibility that not only has safety been compromised at the nuclear bases but that it has in fact been permitted by the MoD.”

A Ministry of Defence spokesperson said: “Industrial action is a matter between the contractor and the union.

“Safety on the base will not be compromised and Capita will provide contingency arrangements to ensure that on-site fire and rescue cover is maintained.”

A Capita spokesperson said: “We are disappointed by Unite’s further escalation of industrial action regarding MoD-approved changes that have been made to resourcing levels at Faslane and Coulport.

"We have a range of contingency options agreed with Defence Fire and Rescue and the Royal Navy’s Clyde leadership team which will ensure the delivery of fire service operations is maintained. 

"All resilience firefighters are appropriately trained and qualified for the tasks they undertake, with qualifications cross mapped and assessed against defence standards.”