Exercise on behalf of fire inspectors etc. of their powers by officers of fire brigades

28.—(1) The powers conferred by article 27 on a fire inspector, or any other person authorised by the Secretary of State under article 25(e), are also exercisable by an employee of the fire and rescue authority when authorised in writing by such an inspector for the purpose of reporting to him on any matter falling within his functions under this Order; and articles 27(2) and (3) and 32(2)(d) to (f), with the necessary modifications, apply accordingly.

(2) A fire inspector, or other person authorised by the Secretary of State, must not authorise an employee of a fire and rescue authority under this article except with the consent of the fire and rescue authority.

 

What the Guidance says:

This provision allows Crown inspectors and inspectors appointed by the Secretary of
State to utilise the services of fire officers in undertaking auditing work by authorising
an employee of the Fire and Rescue Authority to exercise powers of inspection. The
employing Fire and Rescue Authority must be consulted and consent to such an
arrangement. The power of inspection must be exercised in writing and does not
empower the recipient to take enforcement action on behalf of the inspector or
person appointed by the Secretary of State. The role of the employee of a Fire and
Rescue Authority when authorised under this article is to undertake the audit of Crown
premises and to report on the finding to the Fire Inspector or other person authorised
by the Secretary of State.