SUPERVISOR UNIONIZATION AND THE EFFECTIVENESS OF FIRE DEPARTMENTS

HOYT N. WHEELER

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DOI: 10.2190/4LRM-TTE4-RRY5-LJ9V

Abstract

This paper examines the effects of the unionization of fire department officers upon the effectiveness of municipal fire departments. It develops a measure of departmental effectiveness and applies it to a national sample of departments. It finds no observable effects on departmental effectiveness of having officers unionized, or having them in the same bargaining unit with rank-and-file fire fighters. Identified as more likely influences upon departmental effectiveness are competence of rank-and-file fire fighters, respectful behavior of officers, coordination among jobs, support from municipal authorities and constructiveness and moderation on the part of the union.

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