John Bowman, a retired watch commander, described it as "morally indefensible" and a "disaster waiting to happen" after being told that to save money crews could use the harnesses only on themselves.
Fire chiefs ruled new rescue gear could not be used on the public as the union wanted firefighters to be paid extra, an inquiry heard.
John Bowman, a retired watch commander, described it as "morally indefensible" and a "disaster waiting to happen" after being told that to save money crews could use the harnesses only on themselves.