BALTIMORE COUNTY, Md. — A Baltimore County Fire Department employee currently under investigation for alleged misconduct is "not in the workplace" as the fire department begins "hazmat cleaning" all stations and offices.
Hazmat cleaning is described as the safe removal of biological hazards, chemical hazards, physical hazards, and other hazardous materials. Those materials can include blood, bodily fluids, animal waste, carcasses, and pathogens from sewage backups.
In a letter obtained by WMAR-2 News, Baltimore County Fire Chief Joseph Dixon stated that the goal of the update was to ensure that all members of the department feel "informed, supported, and safe."
"We have actively consulted with Baltimore County's health officer, as well as other experts, and understand that even if these allegations are substantiated, the risk to employees is minimal to none," Chief Dixon said. "While the science indicates very little risk, the comfort and peace of mind of our team is more valuable."
While details of the employee's alleged conduct were not made available, Steve Redmer, president of the Baltimore County Professional Firefighters IAFF Local 1311, said the actions were a "serious breach of trust" that has "no place in the department."
Sources later told WMAR-2 News that the employee masturbated inside of a Baltimore County Fire building.
RELATED: BCoFD employee under investigation following allegations of inappropriate behavior while at work
Chief Dixon said the following measures will be taken to address concerns:
• Hazmat cleaning of all career stations and Fire Department offices in the Public Safety Building
• Replacement of ice machines at all career stations
• Immediate access for team members to Baltimore County Police's peer support team
• Deployment of additional crisis management behavioral health support to affected stations
A spokesperson with Baltimore County Police confirmed to WMAR-2 News that police are investigating the incident, but the case remains open and information is limited at this time. If necessary, police will consult with the State's Attorney's Office.
We reached out to the Baltimore County Executive's office for comment and received the following statement:
“I am aware of these disturbing allegations and want to make clear that the health, safety, and wellbeing of our employees in Baltimore County is our top priority. My administration is working closely with Baltimore County Fire Department and union leadership at IAFF Local 1311 to ensure the team has the resources and support they need as the investigation continues. As this is a personnel matter and remains under active investigation, I am not able to comment further at this time.”
