The boss of Kent’s fire service has strongly denied allegations that female firefighters are being forced to strip down to their underwear in front of male colleagues.

The Guardian reported earlier today the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has gone to the official inspector in frustration at what it felt was “chronic management inaction” over the issue.

It was claimed firefighters are being made to take their clothes off in front of colleagues before putting on personal protective equipment (PPE) when attending operational incidents.

The FBU general secretary Matt Wrack says this is not common practice elsewhere.

He added: “Fire stations are workplaces – and it is unacceptable that firefighters are being put in the position of stripping down to their underwear in full view of colleagues, or even the public.”

However, Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) has branded the report “inaccurate and misleading”.

Ann Millington, chief executive of KFRS, said: “Crews are never forced to undress, and it is personal choice if firefighters chose to remove uniform trousers before putting on PPE for comfort.

“Crews told us that wearing trousers under firefighting leggings makes them feel hotter, and practically all of them, men and women, wanted the option not to wear trousers under PPE – especially at this time during warmer weather.

“Our policy states that wearing trousers under firefighting leggings is not mandatory. The welfare of our workforce is essential, we recognise our firefighters’ views on this subject, and we want to support crews to manage heat health and comfort, including the importance of staying hydrated.

“Individuals who choose not to wear trousers under PPE are expected to be aware of their own privacy/dignity and that of their colleagues while undressing behind open fire engine doors.

“I would like to add that we have previously offered to discuss this matter with the FBU, and they have not responded.”

KFRS says the policy which states wearing trousers under firefighting leggings is not mandatory was decided after consultation with crews.

But the FBU says this is not “common practice elsewhere” and that Ms Millington was contacted in May after concerns were raised.

Earlier this year, His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) found evidence of every brigade in the country suffering from bullying, harassment and discrimination within its ranks.

“We hope the local Fire Brigades Union representatives can work collectively with Kent Fire and Rescue Service to resolve any concerns.”