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Monday, April 4, 2011

Off Island Training Links

Provided Below are links to the various courses offered through Homeland Security. Please visit the site you intend to chose and download the application form. Once completed turn it in along with your proposed dates to attend and a second choice of dates. Be advised, as stated in many of memos, you will need to complete ICS 100, 200, 700, 800 in order to attend. And also turn in a copy of your certificate of completion for the respective ICS courses.

FEMA link to all of the courses;

Individual Links
New Mexico Tech – The Energetic Materials Research and Testing Center
Louisianan State University- The National Center for Biomedical Research and Training
National Domestic Preparedness Consortium- WMD Training Center
The Nevada Test Sites Counter Terrorism Operations Support Program – (NTS/CTOS)
The National Emergency Response and Rescue Training Center (NERRTC)
National Disaster Preparedness Center at the University of Hawaii

Sunday, March 27, 2011

Answers to PRACTICE TEST II-I

  1. B
  2. D
  3. D
  4. B
  5. B
  6. B
  7. D
  8. A
  9. B
  10. D
  11. C
  12. D
  13. D
  14. D
  15. C
  16. D
  17. A
  18. D
  19. D
  20. A
  21. D
  22. C
  23. C
  24. D
  25. A
  26. B
  27. B
  28. C
  29. B
  30. A
  31. C
  32. B
  33. C
  34. C
  35. B
  36. B
  37. D
  38. C
  39. B
  40. C
  41. C
  42. D
  43. A
  44. D
  45. C
  46. D
  47. B
  48. C
  49. D
  50. A
  51. B
  52. D
  53. C
  54. C
  55. B
  56. B
  57. D
  58. A
  59. D
  60. B
  61. B
  62. D
  63. D
  64. D
  65. D
  66. A
  67. A
  68. D
  69. B
  70. D
  71. A
  72. B
  73. A
  74. C
  75. A
  76. A
  77. D
  78. B
  79. B
  80. D
  81. B
  82. C
  83. A
  84. B
  85. D
  86. B
  87. C
  88. C
  89. D
  90. B
  91. B
  92. D
  93. B
  94. D
  95. A
  96. B
  97. D
  98. B
  99. D
  100. B

Answers for Practice Test 1-3

  1. d
  2. a
  3. d
  4. d
  5. d
  6. a
  7. c
  8. c
  9. b
  10. c
  11. b
  12. c
  13. b
  14. c
  15. a
  16. c
  17. b
  18. b
  19. c
  20. b
  21. a
  22. d
  23. d
  24. b
  25. c
  26. c
  27. d
  28. b
  29. b
  30. b
  31. d
  32. b
  33. d
  34. b
  35. c
  36. b
  37. b
  38. b
  39. a
  40. c
  41. d
  42. b
  43. b
  44. c
  45. b
  46. b
  47. d
  48. b
  49. b
  50. d
  51. b
  52. d
  53. c
  54. c
  55. d
  56. d
  57. b
  58. b
  59. b
  60. c
  61. d
  62. d
  63. b
  64. b
  65. d
  66. b
  67. c
  68. b
  69. d
  70. d
  71. c
  72. b
  73. b
  74. a
  75. c
  76. b
  77. a
  78. c
  79. b
  80. a
  81. d
  82. c
  83. b
  84. b
  85. d
  86. a
  87. b
  88. b
  89. d
  90. a
  91. c
  92. a
  93. b
  94. d
  95. b
  96. c
  97. a
  98. d
  99. c
  100. d
  101. c
  102. b
  103. d
  104. c
  105. d
  106. a
  107. d
  108. a
  109. d
  110. a
  111. b
  112. a
  113. d
  114. b
  115. c
  116. d
  117. b
  118. b
  119. b
  120. a
  121. b
  122. c
  123. a
  124. d
  125. c
  126. d
  127. b
  128. a
  129. b
  130. a
  131. a
  132. c
  133. c
  134. d
  135. c
  136. b
  137. a
  138. c
  139. d
  140. b
  141. a
  142. a
  143. c
  144. a
  145. c
  146. a
  147. b
  148. c
  149. c
  150. c
  151. c
  152. d
  153. b
  154. c
  155. b
  156. d
  157. b
  158. c
  159. b
  160. d
  161. a
  162. c
  163. a
  164. c
  165. b
  166. d
  167. b
  168. a
  169. d
  170. b
  171. b
  172. b
  173. b
  174. a
  175. d
  176. c
  177. d
  178. d
  179. b
  180. d
  181. c
  182. b
  183. d
  184. b
  185. c
  186. b
  187. a
  188. c
  189. a
  190. a
  191. b
  192. b
  193. a
  194. d
  195. d
  196. b
  197. b
  198. d
  199. c
  200. a

Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Respirators

Respirators

UE News, April and May 1998

These written programs must include company procedures for:
  • Selecting and maintaining respirators.
  • Fit-testing the respirators;
  • Training workers on the airborne hazards they face;
  • Training workers on the proper use and maintenance of respirators; and
  • Medical evaluations for respirator use.
This standard (CFR 1910.134, "Respiratory Protection") also requires, for the first time, that employers provide respirators under working conditions that are immediately dangerous to life and health, and specifies which types of respirators must be used in these situations. Many other respirator requirements are spelled out in the new standard.
An estimated five million workers in 1.3 million U.S. workplaces are covered by the new standard. OSHA expects that compliance with the standard will reduce worker exposure to airborne toxic hazards by 27 percent on average. The standard will prevent "hundreds of deaths and thousands of illnesses," OSHA estimates.
OSHA also believes that three-quarters of the U.S. companies which require respirators on the job are not now in compliance with the new standard. While the new regulations went into effect on April 8, employers still have until Sept. 8, 1998 to determine whether or not respirators must be used in their plants, and until Oct. 5, 1998 to comply with all provisions of the standard. But for firms which already use respirators, compliance has been required for the past few weeks.
With so many firms now out of compliance, unionized workers will have to see to it that proper respiratory protection and procedures are put into place promptly. (We can’t wait for OSHA inspectors to do this — they may not get around to our shops for another 25 years or so according to current federal enforcement statistics.)

WHY WEAR RESPIRATORS?

Respirators prevent harmful substances in the air from entering our bodies when we breathe, and if necessary provide an adequate supply of clean air for breathing. The best way to protect workers from atmospheric hazards is by the use of engineering controls, such as proper ventilation, enclosure of hazardous operations and/or substitution of less toxic materials. If engineering controls have been tried and failed to do the job, OSHA requires that respiratory protection be used. Respiratory protection may also properly be used temporarily while control measures are being put in place.
Respirators are inconvenient to wear, and often make breathing difficult. As OSHA has stated, "Respirators have their limitations and are not a substitute for effective engineering controls. Where respirators are necessary for health protection, specific procedures are necessary to overcome potential deficiencies and to assure effectiveness."

WHEN TO WEAR THEM

Working conditions under which respirators are most often used involve work in:
  • Confined or enclosed spaces;
  • Oxygen-deficient atmosphere (less than 19.5 percent oxygen at sea level);
  • Atmospheres with potentially high concentrations of toxic gases, vapors or dusts;
  • Atmospheres immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH);
  • Firefighting.

WHICH TO WEAR?

When the occasion requires respirators, which kind should be used? There are many to choose from, and NIOSH and OSHA have detailed technical guides for selecting the appropriate ones.
But in general there are two basic classes of respirators: air-supplying and air-purifying.
Most often industries use air-purifying respirators. These may be, for example, ordinary common double-cartridge respirators. They can be as simple (and often as ineffective) as a cheap plastic face mask, or as complex as a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (also known as a PAPR). While relatively comfortable and lightweight, air-purifying respirators have many serious limitations:
  • They should never be used under IDLH conditions or in oxygen-deficient atmospheres;
  • They only protect against specific chemicals and only up to certain concentrations in the workroom air;
  • They only protect for a limited period of time. In most cases (unless the respirator has an end-of-service-life indicator) it is difficult to know when cartridge life has ended, and thus when effective protection has ceased. As a result, air-purifying respirators should only be used with gases and vapors which have adequate warning properties, such as a noticeable odor and/or cause mild eye, nose or throat irritation.
When oxygen levels may be dangerously low, as during a fire or in an enclosed space, air-supplying respirators should be used. Most often this equipment will be a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (called an SCBA or "Scuba"). These are bulky and heavy (often about 35 pounds) and make it difficult to get in and out of confined spaces. SCBAs are often designed to provide about 30 minutes of air for breathing, but may only last for 10 or 15 minutes under strenuous work conditions, such as firefighting.

TRAINING

Employers who require respirators to be used on the job are now required to give annual training on respirator use. The training must be "comprehensive" and "understandable." (This latter requirement is important in plants where English is not the first language of many workers.) Respirator training must cover:
  • Why the respirator is necessary
  • What protection the respirator can give if properly fit and maintained
  • The limitations of the respirator
  • How to inspect, put on and remove and use the respirator, and check its seals
  • How to use the respirator in emergencies, including conditions in which the respirator malfunctions
  • How to recognize medical signs and symptoms that may prevent or limit effective use of the respirator
  • The general requirements of OSHA’s respirator protection standard.
Retraining must be given at least annually, or when changes in the workplace or in the type of respirator used makes previous training obsolete. New or transferred employees must be given their respirator training before being required to use the respirator.
(Note: If companies with respirator programs in place before April 8, 1998 can show that they have provided such training within the past 12 months, they do not have to begin the training outlined above until 12 months after they last provided it. If they did not provide such training within the last 12 months before April 8, and have not yet done so, they are currently in violation of these OSHA regulations.)

MEDICAL EVALUATION

Because the use of respirators can place a burden on the body and aggravate some medical conditions, medical exams are required before a worker is fit-tested and told to wear a respirator. Of special concern is the health of workers who suffer from heart disease or respirator problems.
The medical evaluation consists of a written questionnaire, and a medical exam conducted by a physician or a licensed health care professional. The medical questionnaire and exam must be administered "confidentially during the employee’s normal working hours or at a time and place convenient to the employee." Also, the employer must provide each worker the opportunity to discuss his or her questionnaire or exam results with the doctor or health professional.
Before making any medical determination of a worker’s fitness to wear a respirator, the medical professional must be given a copy of the employer’s written respiratory protection plan, as well as information about the type and weight of the respirator to be used, the expected frequency of use, and the working conditions under which it will be used.
The professional must make a written recommendation about each employee’s fitness to use their designated respirator, and a copy of this must be given to the employee. The recommendation can only relate to medical aspects of respirator use and the need for follow-up exams, if any. It cannot, by law, provide any other information or diagnosis made by the physician or licensed professional except as it relates to fitness to wear a respirator. In other words, this exam cannot be a medical fishing expedition on behalf of your employer.
Common air-purifying respirators, such as half-face and full-face cartridge respirators, can sometimes place an undue health burden on employees with heart or respiratory conditions. Positive-pressure respirators, such as PAPRs (powered air-purifying respirators), do not place so great a burden on these workers, and often can be worn safely when cartridge respirators are not appropriate. If the medical professional finds that an employee cannot wear a cartridge respirator, but can wear a PAPR, then the employer must provide a PAPR to that employee, according to the new regulations.
(This article was originally published in two parts: in the April and May, 1998 issues of the UE News)
Under a new OSHA standard which went into effect April 8, employers must develop a written, comprehensive respiratory protection program for all workers who are required to use respirators on the job.

Thursday, January 20, 2011

PUMPER FIRE APPARATUS REQUIREMENTS - NFPA 1901

Standard for
Automotive Fire Apparatus
NFPA 1901

CHAPTER 3 PUMPER FIRE APPARATUS REQUIREMENTS

3-1 General. If the apparatus is to function as a pumper, it shall meet the requirements of this chapter.
3-2 Fire Pump. The apparatus shall be equipped with a fire pump that meets the requirements of Chapter 14 and that has a minimum rated capacity of 750 gpm (2850 L/min).
3-3 Aerial Device.
3-3.1  If the pumper fire apparatus is equipped with an aerial device, the aerial device shall meet the requirements of Chapter 18.
3-3.2  If the aerial device is equipped with a permanently mounted waterway, the fire pump shall be capable of supplying the flow requirements of 18-6.1.2, 18-12.1, or 18-16.2 with a maximum intake gauge pressure of 20 psi (138 kPa).
3-3.3  Provisions shall be made to ensure that the pump operator is not in contact with the ground. Signs shall be placed to warn the pump operator of electrocution hazards.
3-4* Water Tank.  The pumper shall be equipped with a water tank(s) that meets the requirements of Chapter 17 and that has a minimum certified capacity (combined, if applicable) of 300 gal (1136 L).
3-5* Equipment Storage.  A minimum of 40 ft3 (1.13 m3) of enclosed weather-resistant compartmentation that meets the requirements of Chapter 13 shall be provided for the storage of equipment.
3-6* Hose Storage.  Hose bed area(s), compartments, or reels that comply with Section 13-10 shall be provided to accommodate the following. These areas need not be contiguous.
(1)        A minimum hose storage area of 30 ft3 (0.85 m3) for 21/2-in. (65-mm) or larger fire hose
(2)        Two areas, each a minimum of 3.5 ft3 (0.1 m3), to accommodate 11/2-in. (38-mm) or larger preconnected fire hose lines
3-7 Equipment Supplied by the Contractor.   The following equipment shall be supplied and installed by the contractor. The contractor shall provide such brackets or compartments as are necessary to mount the equipment.
3-7.1* Ground Ladders.  All ground ladders carried on the apparatus shall meet the requirements of NFPA 1931, Standard on Design of and Design Verification Tests for Fire Department Ground Ladders. At a minimum, the following ladders shall be carried on the apparatus:
            One straight ladder equipped with roof hooks
            One extension ladder
            One attic ladder
3-7.2* Suction Hose.  A minimum of 15 ft (4.6 m) of soft suction hose or 20 ft (6 m) of hard suction hose shall be carried. Suction hose shall meet the requirements of NFPA 1961, Standard on Fire Hose. The purchaser shall specify whether hard or soft suction hose is to be provided, the length and size of the hose, the size of the couplings, the manner in which the suction hose is to be carried on the apparatus, and the style of brackets desired.
3-7.2.1 Where hard suction hose is provided, a suction strainer shall be furnished. The friction and entrance loss of the combination suction hose and strainer shall not exceed the losses listed in Table 14-2.4.1(b).
3-7.2.2  Where soft suction hose is provided, it shall have long-handle female couplings with the local hydrant outlet connection on one end and the pump intake connection on the other end.
3-8 Minor Equipment.  The lists of equipment in 3-8.1 and 3-8.2 shall be available on the pumper fire apparatus before the apparatus is placed in service. Brackets or compartments shall be furnished so as to organize and protect the equipment. A detailed list of who is to furnish the items and the method for organizing and protecting these items shall be supplied by the purchasing authority.
3-8.1* Fire Hose and Nozzles.  The following fire hose and nozzles shall be carried on the apparatus:
            800 ft (244 m) of 21/2-in. (65-mm) or larger fire hose
            400 ft (122 m) of 11/2-in. (38-mm), 13/4-in. (44-mm), or 2-in. (51-mm) fire hose
            One combination spray nozzle, 200 gpm (757 L/min) minimum
            Two combination spray nozzles, 95 gpm (360 L/min) minimum
            One playpipe, with shutoff and 1-in. (25-mm), 11/8-in. (29-mm), and 11/4-in. (32-mm) tips
3-8.2* Miscellaneous Equipment.  The following additional equipment shall be carried on the apparatus:
            One 6-lb (2.7-kg) flathead axe mounted in a bracket fastened to the apparatus
            One 6-lb (2.7-kg) pickhead axe mounted in a bracket fastened to the apparatus
            One 6-ft (2-m) pike pole or plaster hook mounted in a bracket fastened to the apparatus
            One 8-ft (2.4-m) or longer pike pole mounted in a bracket fastened to the apparatus
            Two portable hand lights mounted in brackets fastened to the apparatus
            One approved dry chemical portable fire extinguisher with a minimum 80-B:C rating mounted in a bracket fastened to the apparatus
            One 21/2-gal (9.5-L) or larger water extinguisher mounted in a bracket fastened to the apparatus
            One gated swivel intake connection with pump intake threads on one end and one or more female connections compatible with the supply hose carried on the other
            One self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) complying with NFPA 1981, Standard on Open-Circuit Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus for the Fire Service, for each assigned seating position, but not less than four, mounted in brackets fastened to the apparatus or stored in containers supplied by the SCBA manufacturer
            One spare SCBA cylinder for each SCBA carried, each mounted in a bracket fastened to the apparatus or stored in a specially designed storage space
            One first aid kit
            Four combination spanner wrenches mounted in brackets fastened to the apparatus
            Two hydrant wrenches mounted in brackets fastened to the apparatus
            Two double female adapters, sized to fit 21/2-in. (65-mm) or larger fire hose, mounted in brackets fastened to the apparatus
            Two double male adapters, sized to fit 21/2-in. (65-mm) or larger fire hose, mounted in brackets fastened to the apparatus
            One rubber mallet, suitable for use on suction hose connections, mounted in a bracket fastened to the apparatus
            Two salvage covers each a minimum size of 12 ft  14 ft (3.7 m  4.3 m)
            Two wheel chocks, mounted in readily accessible locations, that meet or exceed the requirements of SAE J348, Standard for Wheel Chocks, for the wheel diameter on which the chocks are to be used
3-8.2.1  If the pumper is equipped with an aerial device, two additional wheel chocks, mounted in readily accessible locations, that meet or exceed the requirements of SAE J348, Standard for Wheel Chocks, for the wheel diameter on which the chocks are to be used shall be provided.
3-8.2.2  If the pumper is equipped with an aerial device with a permanently mounted ladder, four ladder belts or ladder/escape belts meeting the requirements of NFPA 1983, Standard on Fire Service Life Safety Rope and System Components, shall be provided.


CHAPTER 4 INITIAL ATTACK FIRE APPARATUS

4-1 General.  If the apparatus is to function as an initial attack fire apparatus, it shall meet the requirements of this chapter.
4-2 Fire Pump.  The apparatus shall be equipped with a fire pump that meets the requirements of Chapter 14 and that has a minimum rated capacity of 250 gpm (950 L/min).
4-3 Water Tank.  Initial attack apparatus shall be equipped with a water tank(s) that meets the requirements of Chapter 17 and that has a minimum certified capacity (combined, if applicable) of 200 gal (757 L).
4-4* Equipment Storage.  A minimum of 22 ft3 (0.62 m3) of enclosed weather-resistant compartmentation that meets the requirements of Chapter 13 shall be provided for the storage of equipment.
4-5* Hose Storage.  Hose bed area(s), compartments, or reels that meet the requirements of Section 13-10 shall be provided to accommodate the following. These areas need not be contiguous.
(1)                 A minimum hose storage area of 10 ft3 (0.283 m3) for 21/2-in. (65-mm) or larger fire hose
(2)                 Two areas, each a minimum of 3.5 ft3 (0.1 m3), to accommodate 11/2-in. (38-mm) or larger preconnected fire hose lines
4-6 Equipment Supplied by the Contractor.  The following equipment shall be supplied and installed by the contractor. The contractor shall provide such brackets or compartments as are necessary to mount the equipment.
4-6.1 Ground Ladders.  A 12-ft (3.7-m) or longer extension-type ground ladder shall be carried on the apparatus. All ground ladders on the apparatus shall meet the requirements of NFPA 1931, Standard on Design of and Design Verification Tests for Fire Department Ground Ladders.
4-6.2* Suction Hose.  A minimum of 15 ft (4.6 m) of soft suction hose or 20 ft (6 m) of hard suction hose shall be carried. Suction hose shall meet the requirements of NFPA 1961, Standard on Fire Hose. The purchaser shall specify whether hard or soft suction hose is to be provided, the length and size of the hose, the size of the couplings, the manner in which the suction hose is to be carried on the apparatus, and the style of brackets desired.
4-6.2.1  Where hard suction hose is provided, a suction strainer shall be furnished. The friction and entrance loss of the combination suction hose and strainer shall not exceed the losses listed in Table 14-2.4.1(b).
4-6.2.2  Where soft suction hose is provided, it shall have long-handle female couplings with the local hydrant outlet connection on one end and the pump intake connection on the other end.
4-7 Minor Equipment.  The list of equipment in 4-7.1 and 4-7.2 shall be available on the initial attack fire apparatus before the apparatus is placed in service. Brackets or compartments shall be furnished so as to organize and protect the equipment. A detailed list of who is to furnish the items and the method for organizing and protecting these items shall be supplied by the purchasing authority.
4-7.1 Fire Hose and Nozzles.  The following fire hose and nozzles shall be carried on the apparatus:
                     300 ft (91 m) of 21/2-in. (65-mm) or larger fire hose
                     400 ft (122 m) of 11/2-in. (38-mm), 13/4-in. (44-mm), or 2-in. (51-mm) fire hose
                     Two combination spray nozzles, 95 gpm (360 L/min) minimum
4-7.2* Miscellaneous Equipment.  The following additional equipment shall be carried on the apparatus:
                     One 6-lb (2.7-kg) pickhead axe mounted in a bracket fastened to the apparatus
                     One 6-ft (2-m) pike pole or plaster hook mounted in a bracket fastened to the apparatus
                     Two portable hand lights mounted in brackets fastened to the apparatus
                     One approved dry chemical portable fire extinguisher with a minimum 80-B:C rating mounted in a bracket fastened to the apparatus
                     One 21/2-gal (9.5-L) or larger water extinguisher mounted in a bracket fastened to the apparatus
                     One gated swivel intake connection with pump intake threads on one end and one or more female connections compatible with the supply hose carried on the other
                     One SCBA complying with NFPA 1981, Standard on Open-Circuit Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus for the Fire Service, for each assigned seating position, but not less than two, mounted in brackets fastened to the apparatus or stored in containers supplied by the SCBA manufacturer
                     One spare SCBA cylinder for each SCBA carried, each mounted in a bracket fastened to the apparatus or stored in a specially designed storage space(s)
                     One first aid kit
                     Two combination spanner wrenches mounted in a bracket(s) fastened to the apparatus
                     One hydrant wrench mounted in a bracket fastened to the apparatus
                     One double female adapter, sized to fit 21/2-in. (65-mm) or larger fire hose, mounted in a bracket fastened to the apparatus
                     One double male adapter, sized to fit 21/2-in. (65-mm) or larger fire hose, mounted in a bracket fastened to the apparatus
                     One rubber mallet, for use on suction hose connections, mounted in a bracket fastened to the apparatus
                     Two wheel chocks, mounted in readily accessible locations, that meet or exceed the requirements of SAE J348, Standard for Wheel Chocks, for the wheel diameter on which the chocks are to be used



FIREFIGHTER SAFETY - Lesson Plan


FIREFIGHTER  I  AND  FIREFIGHTER  II
LESSON PLAN, PART II, TEACHING GUIDE
FIREFIGHTER  SAFETY


INTRODUCTION                                                                              Time:  5 Min.


ATTENTION:
                                               
                                    Fire departments like most organizations are governed by rules and standard                                                       operating procedures. There are no exceptions to the rules!  The success of the fire                                                   service mission relies on each fire fighters willingness to follow the rules and ensure
                         safety at all times.

REVIEW:
Now that you know your role as a firefighter lets combine them with the rules and regulations needed to perform safe fire fighting operations.

OVERVIEW:
During the next few hours we will discuss critical aspects of NFPA 1500.

MOTIVATION:
As a firefighter it is important that you know and understand proper safety procedures.  NFPA 1500 provides the minimum standards we must follow.

TRANSITION:
Now let's discuss some aspects of NFPA 1500.


BODY                                                    TIME:  15 Hr. 50 Min.

PRESENTATION:
3.  FIREFIGHTER  SAFETY

a.         Without reference, identify basic aspects about applicable occupational health and safety standards and fire fighter responsibilities as required by NFPA Standard 1500 with an   overall minimum or 70% accuracy.

(1)   Two basic factors that motivate accident control within the fire service:
(a)    Life safety factor - stems from natural desire to prevent needless suffering from:
1       Physical pain.
2       Emotional stress.
(b)    Economic factor - includes legal expenses and expenses caused by loss of manpower, apparatus, equipment, tools, property, or systems.
(2)   NFPA 1500 contains minimum requirements for safety and health programs.
(a)    The concept is to apply the same degree of safety throughout the fire service.
(b)    Fire departments may also set safety standards unique to their stations.
(3)   Employee interest
(a)    Success of a safety program will begin at the top of the fire department administrative chain.
1       Administration's attitude towards safety is reflected in the attitude of the supervising officers.
2       This in turn affects the firefighters.
(b)    Main goals should be:
1       Prevent human suffering, deaths, injuries, illnesses, and exposures to hazardous atmospheres and contagious diseases.
2       Prevent damage/loss of equipment.
3       Reduce incidence and severity of accidents and hazardous exposures.
(4)   Firefighter Health Considerations
(a)    Firefighters must be in good physical condition to handle physical demands of the profession.
(b)    Essential information for firefighter personal health:
1       Stay informed about job-related health issues.
2       Follow recommendations for vaccination against hepatitis B.
3       Use precautions to avoid exposure to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
4       Learn proper lifting techniques to avoid muscle strains and other related injuries.
5       Use tools designed to assist in lifting heavy objects.
6       Properly clean and store tools and equipment used in patient care.
7       Maintain a regular exercise program to sustain physical fitness.
8       Maintain a diet that reduces cholesterol, fat, and sodium intake.
9       Be aware of cardiovascular and cancer risks such as smoking, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol levels.
10    Have regular physicals and medical checkups.
(5)    An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is one way fire departments can help its members and their families.
(a)    Include, but are not limited to the following programs:
1       Alcohol abuse.
2       Drug abuse.
3       Personal and interpersonal problems.
4       Stress.
5       Depression.
6       Anxiety.
7       Divorce.
8       Career development.
9       Nutrition.
10    Hypertension.
11    Smoking cessation.
12    Weight control.
(b)    Should be readily available to all members and their families.
1       Should provide:
a       Referrals to appropriate:
1              Health care services.
2              Alcohol treatment services.
3              Self-help groups.
4              Other professionals.
b       Counseling and education on health concerns.
2       Should allow members easy, confidential access to counseling and professional help.
3       Any service provided for departmental personnel should also be made available to family members.
(c)    Critical Incident Stress Debriefing:
1       Individuals react to extreme stress in different ways.
2       Critical Incident Stress Debriefings help firefighters cope with situations that might be encountered.
3       Process should start before firefighters enter scene (pre-briefing process). 
4       If required to work more than one shift in these conditions, they should go through a minor debriefing, called a defusing, at the end of each shift.
5       They should participate in a full debriefing process within 72 hours of completing their work on the incident.
(6)    Safety on the apparatus
(a)    Most common danger that firefighters face is riding the apparatus to and from emergency calls.
(b)    Do NOT dress while apparatus is in motion.
(c)    All firefighters should ride within a fully enclosed portion of the cab.
(d)    If not riding in enclosed seats, wear helmets and eye protection.
(d)    If sirens and noise levels exceed 90 decibels, wear hearing protection.
(e)    All firefighters must be seated with seat belts fastened.  Seat belts should be large enough to accommodate a firefighter in full protective clothing.
(f)     Do Not stand anywhere on the apparatus.
(g)    If riding in unenclosed jump seat, safety bars are available to prevent falling.
(h)   Always use handrails when mounting or dismounting apparatus.
1       Reduces the chance of slipping and falling from apparatus.
2       One exception - do NOT use handrails when dismounting an apparatus that  has an aerial device extended close to electrical wires.  (Always jump clear of electrically charged apparatus.)

INTERIM SUMMARY:

(7)   Safety in the Fire Station
(a)    Hazards in the fire station endanger firefighters and visitors.
(b)    Personal safety
1       Safety hazards common to any fire station.
a       Two most common causes of injury:
1              Improper lifting techniques.
2              Slip-and-fall accidents.
b       Common injuries related to improper lifting and carrying techniques:
1              Back strains.
2              Bruises.
3              Sprains.
4              Fractures.
c       Improper lifting techniques may also damage equipment if it is dropped or handled improperly.
d       Back injuries:
1              Most expensive single type of accident.
2              Occur with surprising frequency.
e       Every firefighter should be instructed in correct method of lifting.
1              Do NOT attempt to lift or carry an object that is too bulky or heavy for one person to safely handle.
2              Get help to lift or carry it.
f        Slips, trips, and/or falls:
1              Generally result from poor footing caused by slippery surfaces, objects or substances on surfaces, inattention to footing on stairs, uneven surfaces, and similar hazards.
2              Can result in minor and severe injuries and damaged equipment.
g       To prevent slips, trips, and falls:
1              Stress good housekeeping.
2              Floors must be clean and free from slipping hazards (loose items and spills).
3              Aisles must be unobstructed and stairs should be well lighted.
4              Maintain handrails, slide poles, and slides in a safe condition.
(c)    Tool and equipment safety
1       Poorly maintained tools and equipment
a       Can be very dangerous.
b       Can result in costly accidents.
2       NFPA 1500 stresses importance of safety in every aspect of tool and equipment:
a       Design.
b       Construction.
c       Purchase.
d       Usage.
e       Maintenance.
f        Inspection.
g       Repair.
3       When working in fire station shop or on emergency scene, use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
4       Observe the following procedures when using hand and power tools:
a       Wear appropriate PPE.
b       Remove jewelry, including rings and watches.
c       Select appropriate tool for job.
d       Know and follow manufacturer's instructions.
e       Inspect tools before use to determine their condition.  If deteriorated or broken, replace it.
f        Provide adequate storage space for tools.  Return them to storage promptly after use.
g       Inspect and clean tools before using.
h       Consult with and secure manufacturer's approval before modifying tools.
i         Use spark-resistant tools when working in flammable atmospheres.
(d)    Hand tools
1       Inspect all tools before each use.
2       Use of "cheaters" (homemade tool-handle extensions) is unsafe.  Can overload  tool beyond it design capabilities.
(e)    Power tools
1       Grinders, drills, saws, and welding equipment.
2       Used improperly can cause serious or life-threatening injury.
3       Only firefighters who have read and understand tool manufacturer's instructions should be allowed to use power tools.  Instructions should be accessible to firefighters.
4       Repairs
a       Should be made by trained and authorized personnel.
b       Keeping accurate records of repairs - can help spot misuse before the tool causes an accident.
5       Electrical tools not marked "double insulated" should have a three-prong plug.  Bypassing the ground plug can cause injuries or deaths from unpredictable electrical shocks.
(f)     Power saws
1       Common types used by firefighters:
a        Rotary saws.
1              In the station - usually bench- or table-mounted.
2              At the emergency scene - usually of rescue or forcible entry design.
b       Chain saws.
2       May be found in fire station or on emergency scene.
3       Safety rules:
a       Match saw to task and material to be cut.  Never push saw beyond design limitations.
b       Wear PPE, including gloves and eye protection.  Avoid loose, dangling clothing that may become entangled in saw.
c       Have hoselines in places when forcing entry into an area where fire is suspected or when performing vertical ventilation.  Essential when cutting materials that generate sparks.
d       Avoid using saws when working in a flammable atmosphere or near flammable liquids.
e       Keep unprotected and unessential people out of work area.
f        Follow manufacturer's procedures for proper saw operation.
g       Use caution to avoid igniting gasoline vapors when refueling a hot, gasoline-powered saw.  Best to allow it to cool before refueling.
h       Keep blades and chains well sharpened.  A dull saw is far more likely to cause an accident than a sharp one.
(8)   Safety in Training
(a)    NFPA 1500 requires all personnel who may engage in structural fire fighting to participate in training at least monthly to reinforce safe practices until they become automatic.
(b)    Other types of training are required on an "as needed" basis.
1       When new procedures or equipment are introduced.
2       Should be at least two training sessions of this type per year.
(c)    Maintaining Personal Safety
1       All personnel participating in training should be fully clothed in protective gear.
2       Physical fitness:
a       Trainees with colds, severe headaches, or other symptoms indicating physical discomfort or illness shouldn't continue until a medical examination can determine their fitness.
b       Older trainees and trainees who apparently are not in good physical condition should be watched closely for signs of:
1              Fatigue.
2              Chest pains.
3              Unusually labored breathing during heavy exercise.
c       Physical discomfort or illness can lead to accidents.
d       Accidents can be prevented by determining physical condition of all participants before training.
3       Horseplay during training MUST be forbidden.
(d)    Maintaining and Servicing Equipment
1       Equipment used for fire training evolutions must be in excellent condition.
2       Items used for training often wear out faster than those used routinely in fire station.
3       All tools and equipment should be inspected before each drill to ensure reliability.
4       Records must be maintained on all equipment used for training.
5       Test training equipment IAW manufacturer's instructions and applicable standards.
(9)   Emergency Scene Safety
(a)     Upon arriving at scene, officer in charge (IC) must decide:
1       Whether it is safe and/or feasible to attempt an emergency operation.
2       Whether the operation requires rescuing victims or stopping property loss.
3       When the risks involved in either situation are great enough to warrant limiting actions of fire fighting personnel.
(b)    Firefighters must remember:
1       They did not cause the emergency .
2       Are NOT obligated to sacrifice themselves in a heroic attempt to save the victim, especially not in an attempt to recover a body.
3       Irresponsible and unprofessional for firefighters to take unnecessary risks.
4       Function of fire/rescue service is not to add victims to situation.
(c)    IC's first priority must be firefighter safety; the second priority is victim's safety.
(d)    IC should never choose a course of action that requires firefighters to take unnecessary risks.
(e)    Crowd Control
1       Essential to proper scene management.
a       Usually responsibility of law enforcement agency on scene
b       May sometimes have to be performed by firefighters or rescue personnel.
2       IC's responsibility to ensure scene is secured and properly managed.
3       Bystanders should be restrained from getting too close to incident for their own safety and for that of victims and emergency personnel.
4       Friends or relatives of victims
a       Often difficult to deal with.  Treat them with sensitivity and understanding.
b       Should be gently but firmly restrained from getting too close.
c       Should be kept some distance from actual incident but within cordoned area.
d       Should not be left entirely on their own, a firefighter or other responsible person should stay with them until victims have been removed from scene.
5       Cordoning off the area
a       Keeps bystanders a safe distance from scene and out of the way of emergency personnel.
b       No specific distance.
c       Zone boundaries should be established taking into account:
1              Area needed by emergency personnel to work.
2              Degree of hazard presented by elements involved in the incident.
3              General topography of area.
d       Can be done with rope or fireline tape tied to:
1              Signs.
2              Utility poles.
3              Parking meters.
4              Other objects that are readily available.
e       Monitor boundary to ensure people do not cross line.
(f)     Personnel Accountability System
1       Each department must develop a system of accountability that identifies and tracks all personnel working at an incident.
a       System should be standardized.
b       All personnel must be familiar with the system and participate when operating at an emergency incident.
c       Must also account for those individuals who respond to scene in vehicles other than fire department apparatus.
2       Accountability is vital in the event of a serious accident or structural collapse.
(g)    Tag System
1       Personnel can be equipped with a personal identification tag.
2       Upon entering the fireground perimeter, leave tags at a given location or with a designated person:
a       Command post.
b       Apparatus compartment.
c       Company officer.
d       Control officer.
e       Sector officer.
3       For quick reference, tags can be attached to:
a       Control board.
b       Personnel identification (ID) chart.
4       Upon leaving fireground, collect tags.
(h)   SCBA Tag System
1       Provides closer accountability for personnel inside a structure.
2       All personnel entering a hazardous atmosphere must wear full protective clothing with SCBA.
3       Each SCBA is provided with a tag:
a       Name of the user.
b       Air pressure.
4       Upon entering building, give tag to designated supervisor.
5       Supervisor:
a       Records time of entry and expected time of exit.
b       Does a brief check to ensure all protective equipment is properly used and in place.
6       Provides:
a       Complete accountability for those inside.
b       Ensures they are in proper gear.
7       Firefighters leaving danger area take back their tags so the control officer knows:
a       Who is safely outside.
b       Who is still inside the structure or danger area.
8       Relief crews are sent in before estimated time of sounding of low-pressure alarms.


CONCLUSION                                                    Time:   5 min.


SUMMARY:
We discussed Firefighter safety, common fire service hazards, and NFPA 1500, Standard on Fire Department Occupational Safety and Health Program.

REMOTIVATION:
Safety is paramount in fire protection !  If you know your job and follow rules, accidents on the fireground may not involve serious injury or death.

ASSIGNMENT:
                     N/A Continue with the next lesson.

CLOSURE:
How far you progress in this career field will depend on how well you do your job and carry out your assigned responsibilities.