A message from ACT Fire & Rescue sent on December 29 read: "Any member on Covid isolation leave may be recalled to their rostered shift at any time for emergency operational requitements [sic] even if a negative test result is yet to be received."

United Firefighters Union of Australia ACT branch secretary Greg McConville said the message had concerned members, who did not want to expose workmates to any risk.

"Our members perceived that by coming to work when you're sick, you're doing just that," Mr McConville said.

"So if you're awaiting a test result, our members were concerned that they might be exposing their colleagues to risks."

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Mick Gentleman said his understanding was that staff on COVID isolation leave would not be required to attend work, but he would seek further information.

"I think it was an administrative error, but we'll make sure it doesn't happen again," Mr Gentleman said.

Mr McConville said he had contacted the chief officer to confirm "that the arrangements in place prior to the sending of the text messages will remain in place and that this will be communicated to staff".

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