Investigating cancer and contaminant exposure in the Fire Service
Research shows that firefighters — particularly those aged 35–39 — experience cancer rates up to 323% higher than the general population. The research also links contaminant exposure to wider mental-health impacts.
The London Assembly Fire Committee will question the London Fire Brigade on what more can be done to protect firefighters from toxic exposure — including how the Brigade is reducing risks, changing its internal culture around contaminated gear, and addressing the ongoing challenges posed by ‘forever chemicals’ and other hazardous contaminants.
The guests are:
Panel 10.00-11.10: Fire Brigades Union (FBU)
- Gareth Beeton, London Regional Chair, FBU
- Karl Smith the London Region Deputy Health & Safety Co-ordinator for FBU
Panel 2: 11.20-12.40: London Fire Brigade (LFB)
- Spencer Sutcliffe, Deputy Commissioner and Operational Director for Prevention, Protection and Policy, London Fire Brigade
- Dr Adrian Bevan, Assistant Director, Health and Safety, London Fire Brigade
- Andy Pennick, Assistant Commissioner, Fire Stations and Central Operations, London Fire Brigade
The meeting will take place on Tuesday 2 December 2025 from 10am in the Chamber at City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, E16 1ZE.
Media and members of the public are invited to attend.
The meeting can also be viewed LIVE or later via webcast or YouTube.
Follow us @LondonAssembly.
Notes to editors
- Zack Polanski AM Chair of the Fire Committee, is available for interview.
- Find out more about the work of the Fire Committee.
- Read the agenda in full.
- As well as investigating issues that matter to Londoners, the London Assembly acts as a check and a balance on the Mayor.
For more information, please contact Daniel Zikmund in the Assembly Media Office on 07860647577 or [email protected]. For out of hours media enquiries please call 020 7983 4000 and ask for the Assembly duty press officer.