FIRE chiefs have identified weaknesses in dealing with some major incidents.

Studies by Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service have demonstrated key deficiencies in tackling incidents such as chemical explosions and water rescues.

Proposals have now been drawn up by brigade leaders to ensure 15 fire station managers, working across the county, are trained to deal with fires involving hazard-ous materials.

But the Fire Brigade's Union believes that, instead, more officers should have the required skills to tackle chemical blazes.

In a letter to assistant chief officer Peter O'Brien, Lancashire secretary of the FBU Steve Harman says the demands of two simultaneous chemicals fires last April demonstrated the need for more 'hazmat' officers.

The FBU has also question-ed proposals to deny officers leave if it would mean a station was left without specialist 'hazmat' cover.

But Mr O'Brien says overtime will be provided for other trained officers to step in, if hazmat' cover was the only issue in refusing leave requests.

He insists, though, that the 15 station managers are adequate to meet the chemical fires risk.

The union and brigade chiefs have also clashed over plans to make hazmat' officers responsible for inter-agency liaision at major chemical fires.

Union leaders claim the role is demanding enough, during incidents, without any extra burdens on individual officers.

But Mr O'Brien says, in a letter published by the county fire authority: "The anticipated role is complementary to the hazmat function and is considered entirely appropriate as a logical development to an evolving requirement."

Station managers will also be expected to take on a lead role in breathing apparatus management, water rescues, rope rescues, and a strategic role in major alerts.

The county fire authority is expected to ratify the proposals at its monthly board meeting next week.