The Austrian Federal Fire Brigade Association has recognised IDEAL Kältetechnik GmbH as a “fire service-friendly employer”. Only a small number of companies across Austria received this distinction, including just two businesses from Upper Austria.
The award was presented during a formal ceremony at the Raiffeisen Forum in Vienna by Fire Service President Robert Mayer, Federal Minister Korinna Schumann and the respective provincial fire service commanders.
Engagement that deserves our support
At the heart of this recognition are not only the awarded companies, but also the employees who volunteer with the local fire service. They dedicate a significant part of their free time to training, exercises and emergency call-outs, taking responsibility for the safety of others whenever an incident occurs.
“We are grateful to have such dedicated individuals on our team and proud to be able to support their vital service,” says Peter Habersatter, CEO of IDEAL AKE.
The importance of this commitment is evident in Austria’s fire service system: with around 4,500 volunteer fire brigades, fire protection and technical rescue services across the country are provided almost entirely by volunteers. This makes it possible to provide assistance within minutes in nearly every part of Austria. However, this relies on the support of employers—particularly during working hours, when emergency personnel may need to respond to call-outs at short notice.
Recognition for voluntary service
At the award ceremony, Fire Service President Robert Mayer emphasised the particular importance of ensuring sufficient daytime operational availability, describing it as one of the most valuable pillars of the fire service. Federal Minister Korinna Schumann highlighted that economic success, social responsibility and voluntary engagement are not mutually exclusive, but rather reinforce one another.
For IDEAL Kältetechnik, this award is above all a recognition of its own employees who volunteer their time in service of the community. Their commitment plays a vital role in sustaining a system that ensures the safety of everyone in an emergency.
Photo credit: © FEUERWEHR.AT/Seyfert
