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Fire and RescueService Manual

Volume 4Fire Service Training

Foundation Trainingand Development

HM Fire Service Inspectorate

Publications Section

Published byTSO (The Stationery Office) and available from:

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Published with the permission of the Office of the Deputy Prime Ministeron behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office

© Crown Copyright 2004

Copyright in the typographical arrangement and design rests with the Crown.

This publication,excluding the RoyalArms and any logos, may be reproduced free of charge inany format or medium for research, private study or for internal circulation within an organisation.This is subject to it being reproduced accurately and not used in a misleading context.The materialmust be acknowledged as Crown copyright and the title of the publication specified.

This is a value added publication which falls outside the scope of the HMSO Class Licence.

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ISBNOII 341286X

Cover and title page photographs: Scottish Fire ServiceTraining School

Printed in Great Britain on material containing 75% post-consumer waste and 25% ECF pulp.

Printed in the United Kingdom forTSON173265 C35 10/04

Introduction

The Fire and Rescue Service Manual - Foundation Training and Development, has beenrevised to produce this new guidance document to support the United Kingdom's Fire andRescue Services as they seek to implement the integrated Personal Development System(IPDS).

The content of this manual is fundamental to the development of new entrants in the earlystages (Phase I development) of joining the service. It is also an important referencedocument that provides comprehensive guidance on the implementation andmanagement of all training and development activities.

It also sets out the procedures necessary to underpin safe working practices whereverthey are applied on a national basis.

The Fire and Rescue Service Foundation Training and Development Manual takes intoaccount the need to:

• modernise the approach to training and development including rescue methods• shift the emphasis from "drill" to a recognition of the need for meaningful simulationsof workplace activity.• remove or amend a number of techniques.

This Manual recognises the advantages of progressive development set out in theEmergency Fire Service role maps and National Occupational Standards. It includes thebasic tasks and techniques which underpin the firefighter's operational role and guidanceon scenario based training. This is entirely compatible with the competence basedapproach that has now been adopted by the service and continues to endorse the closelink between occupational competence and health and safety. Throughout the publicationemphasis is placed on the need for:

• a competent workforce.• a safe working environment.• safe working equipment.• safe systems of work.• dynamic management of risk.• standard operating practices where these are fundamental to the above.

The purpose of this manual is to provide Fire and Rescue Services with guidance to helpthem to develop competent people. It will:

• ensure that the exposure of personnel to any risk during training activities iscontrolled and contributes to the achievement of workplace outcomes, e.g. theeffective prevention and resolution of incidents; and• provide a link between specific training and development activity and the Units andElements of the National Occupational Standards contained in the IntegratedPersonal Development System.

III

iv

Contents

Sections

1 Introduction

2 The Planning and Implementation of Training

3 Controlling Risk During Training

4 Standard Practices and Techniques

5 Scenario Based Training/Development

Appendices

I Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations

2 Fireground Communications

3 Fitness and Manual Handling

4 First Aid Training

5 Operational Role Insignia

6 Manual Handling

7 Signals

8 Form TRA1

V

Acknowledgements

Review of Fire Service Training Manual — 2000

Chief and Assistant Chief Fire Officers Association

HM Fire Service Inspectorate

Fire Service College

Fire Brigades Union

Health and Safety Executive

Scottish Fire Services College

Consultees:

Association of Local Authority Medical Advisors

Car Users Entrapment Extrication Society

Firef it Group

Chester College

National Rope Users Group

Review of Fire and Rescue Service — FoundationTraining and Development — 2004

Chief Fire Officers Association

Firemaster A J Early Fast Chair, Scottish Regional Network Healthand Safety Committee

Assistant Chief Officer A Marshall Personnel and Training CommitteeAssistant Firemaster A Macinnes Central Scotland Fire Brigade, Training

HM Fire Service Inspectorate

HM Assistant Inspector A M Boyer PublicationsHM Assistant Inspector K Ring Operational Practices

D Rama Health and Safety

Integrated Personal Development System

HM Assistant Inspector J Ozimkowski HMFSI, People Management and DevelopmentDivisional Officer B Bell North Yorkshire Fire BrigadeStation Officer B Clunas West Yorkshire Fire Brigade

Scottish Fire Services College

Principal J RobsonChief Instructor D Brannan

National Rope Users Group

Assistant Chief Officer J Burke Cleveland Fire Brigade

Photographs and Drawings

Central Scotland Fire BrigadeEssex Fire and Rescue ServiceDorset Fire and Rescue ServiceFire Service CollegeLondon Fire BrigadeLothian and Borders Fire BrigadeNottinghamshire Fire and Rescue ServiceScottish Fire Services College

vi

Contents

1.1 The Safe Person and OccupationalCompetence 2Personal responsibilities 2

Organisational responsibilities 3Definition of Competence within the context of this manual 3

1.2 The Purpose of Training and Development 4Four progressive components of training and development activity 5

1.3 The Format of the Foundation Training andDevelopment Manual 5

Section 1 Introduction 1

1.1 The Safe Person and OccupationalCompetence

Organisations will protect the health, safety and welfare of people at work by providingand maintaining:

A competent workforceA safe working environmentSafe work equipmentSafe systems of work

Any intervention to resolve an emergency incident can involve working in an environmentthat is constantly changing and inherently hazardous. People who are competent will beable to function effectively and safely in such environments and occupationalcompetence is rightly regarded as the most effective control measure that is available tothe service.

Occupational competence is defined as the ability to consistently achieve the statedoutcomes of work place performance as described for an individual's role by theappropriate National Occupational Standards. This definition is endorsed by theQualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) and the Scottish Qualifications Authority(SQA) and as such, is the one used in the context of the IPDS Manual.

There is often a degree of confusion as to the purpose of the National OccupationalStandards and the role maps used by the IPDS. In fact, the role maps contain exactlythe same Units and Elements as the National Occupational Standards but merelypresent them in different combinations. For example, there is a single NationalOccupational Standard that covers the two roles of crew and watch manager, butindividually, each has its own role map.

Even when Fire and Rescue Service people have developed to the point of beingvocationally competent, it is essential to ensure that work equipment is safe and thatsafe systems of work are employed.

To maintain the effectiveness of people in dynamic and hazardous environments, theservice needs to ensure that they are as safe as possible. It does this by applying whatis known as the 'Safe Person Concept'. This concept covers personal and organisationalresponsibility.1

Personal responsibilities:

The personal responsibilities of people are met by competent performance, i.e.workplace performance to the standards set out in the Units and Elements of theappropriate National Occupational Standards and role maps with demonstration ofappropriate knowledge, skills and understanding. This includes:

• PerformanceTakes responsibility for maintaining and improving effective performance— manages time effectively

1 Dynamic management of risk at operational incidents, A Fire Service Guide, The Stationery Office 1998,ISBNO 113412215

2 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

• Working with othersEstablishes and maintains effective working relationships with people.— treats people fairly and ethically.— communicates own skill and knowledge to colleagues.— supports people involved in incidents.

• Problem SolvingOffers solutions to problems to meet objectives.— adapts to changing circumstances.— takes opportunities to offer alternative course of action.

• AwarenessManages and works with risk.— recognises personal abilities and limitations.— recognises limitations and use of equipment.— makes and applies decisions based on assessment of risk.— identifies hazards, assesses and manages actual and potential risks in the

workplace to maximise the health, safety and welfare of self and others.

Organisational responsibilities:

The organisational responsibilities are summarised as follows:

• Firefighter SelectionPeople selected to undertake any role must be capable of developing the job skillsnecessary to demonstrate competence i.e. to meet the demands of the work.

• Training and DevelopmentThis must be based on the true requirements of the role e.g. knowledge about thehazards on the incident ground or knowledge of the systems and proceduresnecessary for a person to do their job. It must be delivered in a planned,systematic and continuous manner and be assessed and evaluated if it is to beeffective.

• InformationPeople must be provided with information about the risks and control measuresassociated with any hazard that they may be required to face as a consequence ofwork activity. This information may be generic in nature or it may be specific.

• EquipmentPeople must be provided with equipment that is suitable for the purposes forwhich it is intended. Prior to purchase, planning will be necessary to ensure that allwork equipment will be rigorously inspected, tested and maintained.2 People likelyto use the equipment must be aware of its designed use and limitations.

• Safe Systems of WorkFire and rescue services must adopt systems of work to ensure that work activityis undertaken safely. Safe systems of work range from descriptions of how peoplemay jointly handle a heavy piece of equipment, to the adoption of nationalprocedures for the safe control of breathing apparatus wearers and operationalincidents.

• InstructionPeople must receive clear instructions relating to the operation of equipment andsafe systems of work that they will use when carrying out their role.

• SupervisionPeople must always be supported in the workplace with clearly defined lines ofcommunication and competent supervision. This is as true at incidents as at anyother time.

2 The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998

Section 1 Introduction 3

• Personal Protective EquipmentPeople must be provided with the appropriate level of personal protectiveequipment. This must meet currently approved standards.3

Definition of Competence within the context of this manual

To avoid ambiguity the term 'competent' is employed in the vocational sense, asdiscussed above, this does not detract from the legal duties that apply to bothindividuals and organisations deriving from various pieces of legislation using otherdefinitions for this term.

A person who has developed to a level defined by a specific National OccupationalStandard will have met the required conditions. Therefore, the vocational definition ofcompetence is fully compliant with the interpretation encountered in the legal context ofthe competent person as defined in, for example, the Health and Safety at Work Act1974. This recognised in inset 8 of HS(G) 65 — Successful Health and SafetyManagement which states that the possession of a National Vocational Qualification willbe deemed to be evidence of competence in respect of the legal requirement.

1.2 The Purpose of Training and DevelopmentThe purpose of training and development is to make sure that people are capable ofbeing able to do all that is expected of them in the workplace, wherever that may be.They must accordingly be developed to a standard that is commensurate with theevel of risk and responsibility expected of their role. The role maps and NationalOccupational Standards define everything a person has to do and how well it should bedone — and this includes doing it safely! To be competent in the context of the role map,they should, by definition, be able to do everything necessary for the role.

This concept is absolutely vital and, as such, it forms one of the key risk controlmeasures for the fire and rescue service.

There are, in addition, a number of statutes and statutory instruments that require thefire authority to provide training, in particular:

• the Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004.• the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974.• the Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999.• the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992.

The provision of training and development activity ensures that organisations complywith the requirements imposed by the legislation listed above.

Note. The above list is not exhaustive.

Indiscriminate use of the term "training" is discouraged, as it implies a process ofdeveloping a restricted repertoire of task skills for use in a limited range of environments.However, the use of this term is appropriate when applied to gaining basic equipmentskills such as ladder pitching and pump operation during the earliest stages ofdevelopment.

3 Page 12 GRA 3.1, Health & Safety Guidance

4 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

The term 'development' is more appropriate to the complexity of the modern firefighter'sworkplace, and communicates the notion of a person being enabled to functioncompetently in a complex environment. This will necessarily require the use of basicequipment skills, in conjunction with a wide range of knowledge and understanding, toensure that the outcome of workplace performance matches the requirements of theappropriate rolemap.

"Development" is about producing well rounded people who can meet any challengethat the workplace can produce with competence and confidence. It is a concept thatgoes far beyond that of "training". The aim of training and development is, therefore, to:

• prepare people to assume new roles and responsibilities;• provide people with the knowledge, skills, understanding and attitudes that will

enable them to perform their current role competently;• provide opportunities to assist and encourage continuous personal development;• drive down risk and contribute to safe and effective work activity.

There are four progressive components of training and development activity:

• Task skillsForm part of establishing a safe system of work which enable people to acquireknowledge and understanding and develop basic task and equipment skills.

• TechniquesForm part of safe systems of work that enable people to achieve definedobjectives using specific equipment.

• Realistic simulations — scenario based trainingThe application of knowledge, skills and understanding to resolve simulatedincidents. Realistic simulations are only of value in assessing the competence ofpeople when no opportunity has been presented by real life workplace experience.

• Real Life work experienceReal life work experience forms the keystone of vocational development. Theobjective is to provide evidence that knowledge, skills and understanding canactually be applied in the workplace to achieve the outcomes specified in theunits and elements of the appropriate National Occupational Standard.

1.3 The Format of the Foundation Training andDevelopment Manual

This manual comprises 5 sections and a number of appendices:

Section 1 Introduction

Section 2 Planning and Implementing Training and Development

This section explains the link between work activity, training and development and theassessment of competence. It discusses the requirement for a "training needs analysis"that is based on the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM) development objectivesdatabase and the organisational Integrated Risk Management Plan (IRMP). This shouldreflect the risk profile of the area for which the service is responsible and whereappropriate, that of neighbouring services. The section also contains detailed guidanceon the methodology of training and development and on how the outcomes should beevaluated and assessed.

Section 1 Introduction 5

Section 3 Controlling Risk During Foundation Training and Development

This section details the key control measures necessary to ensure safety during trainingand development activity, It gives practical guidance on risk assessment for trainingactivities and provides guidance on fitness training, the provision of equipment andsome common safe systems of work.

Section 4 Principle of Standard Procedures and Techniques for New Entrants

The variation in IRMP's and the wide range of equipment used by the fire and rescueservices make it essential that common national operational procedures and practicesare developed and maintained by firefighters for certain standard applications andtechniques. This is especially important for new entrants to the service. This will help toensure safe working practices between crews from different fire stations and Fire andRescue Services wherever they are employed. The guidance on how to achieve this isset out in section 4.

Section 5 Realistic Simulations — Scenario Based Events

This section provides a framework of relevant guidance for:

• formulating policy.• developing plans.• organising and preparing scenario based events.

Appendices

Included in the appendices are a number of useful documents which support andexpand information contained in the main text of this manual.

6 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

ContentsThe Planning of Training and Development and itsImplementation 2

2.1 Training, Development and Workplace Activity 3

2.2 The Training Needs Analysis 4

2.3 The Design of Training and Development 4

2.4 Training and Development Methods— Implementation 6Transferability of knowledge, skills and understanding 6

2.5 Assessing Performance in the Workplace 7

2.6 Evaluation of Training and Development 8

Further Reading 11

Section 2 The Planning of Training and Development and its Implementation I

The Planning of Training and Development and itsImplementationThe Integrated Personal Development System (IPDS) is a comprehensive competencebased development framework for the fire and rescue service. By using it in conjunctionwith the ODPM Development Objectives Database, training and development managersand designers will be enabled to plan and implement effective training and developmentevents. Line managers will also find it invaluable when carrying out assessments ofworkplace performance.

The IPDS framework is fully compliant with the principles and structures set out in theHSE publication HS(G) 65 — Successful Health & Safety Management. It is also fullyconsistent with the philosophy and objectives of the "safe person concept". Training anddevelopment managers and designers will need to refer to HS(G) 65 when planning anddeveloping their respective activities. What is provided here is merely an outline of thekey risk management principles and structures described so adequately in HS(G) 65.

The emphasis is on the relationship between training, development and workplaceperformance.

The use of a model can help to structure the entire training and development effort sothat systems, procedures and methods can be effectively developed, organised,managed and operated. The model below illustrates the five stages required for theeftective delivery of any training and development activity.

Training NeedsAnalysis (TNA)

I Evaluate the [ietI activity J

Objectives for the I

Training/Developmentactivity

1 Deliver the Design theactivity activity

* SMART = Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timely

Figure 2.1: Five Stages of a Systematic Training and Development Cycle

The model is an essential part of the "safe person concept" in that it ensures that theidentification of training and development needs is then followed by a process thatconsiders how best to address each persons particular needs. The identification oftraining and development will usually occur through the workplace assessment of aperson's performance. Encouraging positive self-assessement is an important additionalapproach in identifying need. A frequency-based approach to training and developmentwill not identify the requirements of individual people or ensure that what is done, isdone to the best effect.

2 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Once a development need has been identified, suitable activities to address the needcan occur. Often, all that will be required is more supervision and support in theworkplace. If, however, the need for specific activities and events has been identified,there will need to be a systematic process for designing and delivering them. When theactivity has been undertaken, the outcome should be assessed and evaluated. It is notenough to assume that the outcome of an event or activity will always be positive, orthat it is enough to be performed positively on one occasion.

Despite careful planning, it might still be possible for an event to produce less thansuccessful outcomes for any number of reasons. This is why it is important to have asystematic method of evaluation as it will enable the event or activity to be strengthenedso it will be better the next time it is undertaken.

The objective of any training or development activity undertaken by the fire andrescue service is always to develop, maintain and enhance the competence of itspeople and hence to improve its own overall performance.

The most important feature of the IPDS is the use of National Occupational Standards.These are statements of what is expected of people in terms of their competentperformance and have been constructed to:

• meet the needs of the Fire and Rescue Service.• provide the foundation on which all training and development programmes

are based.• provide a comprehensive set of performance objectives.

The following sub-sections briefly describe the structure and operation of the abovemodel in relation to the standards of competence.

2.1 Training, Development and Workplace ActivityIn order to deliver a competent and effective work force, people, either as individuals orteam members, need to be developed and supported. As a general principle, no trainingor development activity should be conducted unless there is a clear and obvious linkto role and workplace performance. This means that all training and developmentactivity must be based on identified need and be:

• in support of the organisational IRMP.• in accordance with the Service training and development policy and plan.• effective in supporting people in achieving and maintaining competence in their

roles.• carried out using safe systems of work.• efficient in using the allocated resources.

Used in conjunction with the role maps, the generic risk assessments1 can provide auseful starting point when designing certain training and development activities.

1 Health & Safety Guidance for the Fire Service Volume 3, Operational Generic Risk Assessments, DCOL12/1998

Section 2 The Planning of Training and Development and its Implementation 3

2.2 The Training Needs AnalysisOrganisational and individual training and development needs should be identified by asystematic process that analyses:

• the performance criteria applicable to the relevant Units and Elements of theNational Occupational Standards.

• the requirements of the ODPM Development Objectives Database.• the evidence gained from assessments of individual performance.• the evidence gained from feedback from individuals/crews.• other available evidence including:

— the generic risk assessments.2— area, ground and site specific risks within the relevant area of responsibility.- FDR1s.— incident logs.— incident de-briefs.— accident/near-miss analysis.— national data, legislation, circulars, manuals, codes of practice, etc.— specific research.

A training or development need exists when:

• the organisation introduces new functions.• people are developed into new roles.• new activities (e.g. new equipment and/or procedures) are introduced.• the performance of a person does not meet the standard identified for their role.

2.3 The Design of Training and DevelopmentWhen planning any training and development activity, it is vital that:

• the activity is informed by the relevant National Occupational Standards3 and theorganisational IRMP. This will include any relevant risk assessments.4

• the methods and resources to be used in delivery of the activity are identified,prioritised, confirmed and allocated.

• learning is prioritised and programmed to meet the needs of the service and theindividual.

• whenever practicable, activities should be designed to accommodate the learningstyles of people, either as individuals or team members.

• the realism required to achieve the objectives of the activity is subject to a riskassessment process. All relevant health and safety findings must be actioned.

• whilst participating in training and development activities, the extent of a person'sprogress must be appropriately assessed.

2 Health & Safety Guidance for the Fire Service Guidance Volume 3, A Guide to Operational RiskAssessment, DCOL 12/1998

3 The National Occupational Standards accredited for the Emergency Fire Service by the Qualificationsand Curriculum Authority and the Scottish Qualifications Authority in Scotland in August 2001.

4 Health & Safety Guidance for the Fire Service Volume 3, Operational Generic Risk Assessments, DCOL1 2/1998

4 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

• the activity is validated and reviewed in the light of information gained from theevidence of workplace assessment and improvements in organisationalperformance.

The following checklist can be used to assist in the design of training and developmentactivity.

Fire and Rescue Services should consider:

• what training and development is actually required by people.• how to record the significant findings against each item.

Training Needs Analysis:

• who needs to participate?• why?• what must the activity achieve?• what are the priorities?• what are the constraints?

Managing Safety:

• who is competent to conduct the necessary risk assessment?• who will be responsible for the safety control measures?• who will prepare the practical venues?• consider the health and safety of those who will prepare and clean up practical

venues before and after training events.

Training and Development — delivery considerations:

• what delivery methods will be used?• who else will be involved?• are there alternative delivery methods?• who will decide the lesson content?

Evaluation of Training and Development:

• who will write the session plan?• how will the training be internally and externally validated and evaluated?• who will be involved in delivering and supporting the activity?• who will be assessed?• who will assess?• how will people be assessed?• how much time is needed, what time is available?• what resources are needed, human, physical and financial and are they available?• what are the arrangements for organisational and individual post event de-briefing?• how will the subsequent information be fed back into service systems? 6

5 The Fire Service role maps contained in the Integrated Personal Development System.6 Fire Service Guide to Health & Safety — Dynamic management of risk at operational incidents, HMSO 1998

Section 2 The Planning of Training and Development and its Implementation 5

• what procedures are in place to record changes in the training that may take placeover time?

• what skills and expertise are needed! available, are they in-house or should theybe bought in?

2.4 Training and Development Methods -Implementation

IRMP's, together with the information gained from the analysis of personal andorganisational development needs, will influence the form, content and methodologychosen for any training/development activity. Whatever method is chosen, the followinggood practice should be adopted:

• The method of delivery is appropriate to the target group and delivered at a pacewhich while sustaining interest, is appropriate to the activity and ambientconditions.

• Learning resources are produced in a format which are easily understood.• Layout of the venue appropriate to the intended use.• Underpinning knowledge and information is imparted at appropriate times during

the practice of the skill.• Participants are given the opportunity to clarify any issues arising from the session.• The time constraints of the session are realistic to what is being taught.• Appropriate feedback is given to participants.• Content is accurate.

Transferability of knowledge, skills and understanding

The risk-critical nature of the work of the fire and rescue service means that thecompetent performance of its people is absolutely vital. Nothing less will do.

Competent performance involves the ability to successfully transfer learning from onesituation to another. This is fundamental to successful individual development andachieving organisational flexibility. Opportunities that allow the transfer of learninggained from one particular activity to be applied in another should be exploitedwhenever possible. In some cases the transfer and 'application' of knowledge, skills andunderstanding is relatively straightforward, in others it may be necessary for someadditional supportive learning to take place.

The way that learning and development activity is presented and delivered is of criticalimportance. If activities are presented in a way that enables the individual to appreciateand understand the concepts and principles involved, then they are much more likely toapply them in a flexible and responsive manner.

Practical activity should always be supported by relevant theoretical input. Opportunities toexplain the principles underlying a technique should not be missed. This does not, however,mean that people should be confused with irrelevant and unnecessarily detailed knowledge.For example, it is not necessary to know how a speedometer works in order to use it togauge the speed of a vehicle, whereas it is necessary to understand the significance of therelationship between the position of the indicator and the figures on the dial.

6 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

2.5 Assessing Perlormance in the WorkplaceIn order to be worthwhile, training and development activity must contribute toeffective service delivery. Its quality is not just measured by the fact that setnumbers of people are being trained, or that the training function is well resourced.The effectiveness of training and development can only be quantified by assessingworkplace performance and evaluating its outcomes for the organisation andindividuals.

Assessment should be:

• continuous.• documented throughout the programme in a person's personal development

record.• matched to specific occupational standards.• related to current practice.

To be described as competent, a person will be able to demonstrate four inter-relatedskills components, which are:

Task skillsThe routine and largely technical components of a function.

Task managementThe skills to manage a group of tasks and prioritise between them.

Contingency managementThe skills to recognise and deal with things that go wrong and with theunexpected.

Role/job environmental skillsEnsuring safety, interacting with people and the ability to cope with theenvironmental factors required in fulfilling the wider role.

When assessing in the workplace, direct observation of performance is the preferredmethod. Competent people will be able to demonstrate consistent performance. 'Oneoff' demonstrations of proficiency by people under development are not a sufficientbasis on which to make sound judgements. Evidence can come in a variety of formatsbut should meet the requirements of the performance criteria of the Units and Elementsof the National Occupational Standards.

To summarise, the assessor is looking for evidence that is:

• sufficient.• valid.• authentic.• reliable.

Assesment strategies should be developed as an integral part of the design ofdevelopment opportunities. Where people are undertaking S/NVQ's, there will be

Section 2 The Planning of Training and Development and its Implementation 7

detailed information available regarding the assessment strategy to be applied. Indeciding which tests and or assessment methods to use, the designer will need toconsider the:

• input to be given.• paticipant's level of ability.• objectives of the activity.• risk criticality of the performance outcomes.• most appropriate method of assessment.• opportunities and venues for assessment — workplace and/or simulated.

2.6 Evaluation of Training and Development

Evaluation will determine if the development opportunity has enabled the organisation tomeet its objectives and whether it has provided people with the knowledge, skills andunderstanding that will enable them to demonstrate competent performance.

Terminology and Current Evaluation Method.

The evaluation model most likely to serve the needs of the fire and rescue service is the"Kirkpatrick 4 Level model". This identifies 4 key areas for evaluation which will enablepertinent information to be collected to improve the service provided by Training andDevelopment departments.

The 4 Levels are:

• level 1: The reactions and opinions of those who attended the training anddevelopment activity.

• level 2: The acquisition of learning for those who attended in relation to newknowledge, skill or understanding. This may be measured during the activity orshortly after completion.

• level 3: The application of the knowledge, skills and understanding gained fromthe activity within the workplace, evidenced by changed behaviours and attitudes.

• level 4: The changes and improvements accruing to organisational performancebased upon the other 3 levels.

Evaluation is a key component of any training or development activity and should alwaystake place. Although it usually occurs after the activity, its outcomes can have an impacton all of the other stages of the training/development cycle pictured at Figure 2.1 (seepage 2).

It is important to consider how evaluation techniques can help to measure whether ornot the objectives of the activity (meeting the identified personal and organisationaltraining needs) have been met. This needs to be borne in mind when setting SMARTobjectives (i.e. Specific, Measureable, Achievable, Realistic and Timely). When theactivity is being designed, it will be necessary to decide how success or failure will beconfirmed.

8 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

It is not sufficient to concentrate training on task and equipment skills (i.e. what is doneand how to do it) Although relatively simple and requiring few resources, this takes littleor no account of the other inter-related skills components described in section 2.5above. This approach does not meet the requirement to develop competent people.

Accordingly, all training and development activity must be planned with all aspects ofthe training and development cycle in mind. The task, task management, contingencyand environmental skills to be developed by the activity should be clearly identified inthe training specification process. The use of a detailed training specification will ensurethat focus is maintained on the needs of both the training and development provider andthe client or customer.

The application of the evaluation model described in Figure 2.1 (see page 2) will result inthe production of information, which will need to be formatted into a series of regularreports in a standard format. Taking account of the four levels of evaluation in greaterdetail, the following points can be made:

• level 1: Reaction to Inputs

This measures the reaction of individuals to the activity or event (and, if necessary, theirvarious components). Effectively, it measures what individuals perceive the strengthsand weaknesses of the activity to be. This is the first level of evaluation, but is veryuseful in providing information about what individuals like and dislike about thedevelopment opportunity that was provided. Much of the necessary data can begenerated from end-of-event questionnaires.

• level 2: Acquisition of Learning

The objectives of the activity/event should enable it to be broken down to a series ofexpectations for each part of the activity. Outcomes such as scores achieved againstwritten asssessments or the ability to demonstrate new knowledge or understandingcan be used as the basis for measurement and should be subject to review and audit,to facilitate improvement. For any training/development activity, success must bemeasured against the identifed objectives. It should thus be possible to identify ifparticipants have acquired additional skills, knowledge and understanding. It may alsobe possible to identify whether or not the activity itself, or its outcomes, need to beamended.

N.B. It is not implied that every aspect of training and development activity wouldneed to be comprehensively subjected to stage 1 or 2 evaluation.

• level 3: Application in the Workplace

Training/development activity is designed to improve the workplace performance ofpeople to enable them to more closely fit the competence expectations of theirorganisation. This level of evaluation accordingly verifies that the inputs provided haveactually changed workplace behaviours. It is expected that this information will largelybe generated by verifiers ensuring that organisational expectations in terms ofperformance management are being achieved, whether through simulated (whereappropriate) or actual responses.

Section 2 The Planning of Training and Development and its Implementation 9

• level 4: Organisational Effectiveness

If the performance of people at work is improved then there should also be an effect onorganisational performance. The measurements of achievement and behavioural changeshould be assessed against the overall performance (planned and actual) of theorganisation,enabling the links between training and development activity andorganisational performance to be drawn.

If evaluation is accurately to determine the overall effectiveness of the event/activity byexamining the way in which it was planned, designed, delivered, resourced andmanaged, then it must not just be an internal exercise. The representative views ofpeople, sections, departments, etc., who are involved in or affected by training shouldalso contribute to the evaluation process. The information can then be used to:

• inform any decisions about the service training policy and plans.• keep trainers informed and motivated.• give feedback about the content or delivery of a particular course.• be proactive in meeting the demands facing individuals and the service.• be flexible and responsive in dealing with issues that unexpectedly arise.• identify trends and developments and plan for the future.

1 0 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Further Reading:Further, more detailed information relating to the principles of planning and implementingtraining is available from the following books published by the Chartered Institute ofPersonnel and Development.

Title Author ISBN

Identifying Training Needs Tom BoyeII and Malcolm Leary 0-85292-630-8

Designing Training Alison Hardingham 0-85292-644-8

Developing Learning Materials Jacqui Gough 0-85292-639-1

Evaluating Training Peter Bramley 0-85292-636-7

Section 2 The Planning of Training and Development and its Implementation 11

ContentsControlling Risk 2

3.1 Risk Assessment of Training and DevelopmentActivities and Events 2Basic equipment skills and techniques 2Scenario Based Training 3

3.2 The Competence of Trainers 3

3.3 Use of Equipment 4

3.4 Suitability of Locations used for Training andDevelopment Activity 5

3.5 Management of Training and DevelopmentEvents and Activities 6Key Elements of Effective Management of Training and Development 6Span of Control 6Work Instructions 7

3.6 Emergency Arrangements 8Procedures for Serious and Imminent Danger 8

3.7 Personal Protective Equipment 9

Section 3 Controlling Risk 1

Controlling Risk

3.1 Risk Assessment of Training andDevelopmentActivities and Events

Effective training and development contributes to the control of risks by giving peoplethe supporting skills, knowledge and understanding that they need to allow them todemonstrate competence in the workplace. The development programmes that supportcompetent performance are one of the Fire and Rescue Service's key risk controlmeasures. This is because the role maps and National Occupational Standards thatdefine competent performance can be thought of as risk assessments of each role in theservice. Occupational competence will, however, also need to be be underpinned by arange of supplementary activities which are described below.

The organisational Integrated Risk Management Plans (IRMP) should be used to informthe training needs analysis. The IRMP details what an organisation must do and thusdefines how people must be developed to enable it to do it. Suitable activities andevents can then be planned and carried out. The ODPM Development ObjectivesDatabase will, in the first instance, help this process by facilitating the identification ofindividual training and development needs. Once the need for a particular activity orevent has been identified, fire and rescue services have a legal duty (Regulation 3, TheManagement of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999) to risk assess it. See HSEguidance for further information.1

It is emphasised that the responsibility of meeting the statutory duty to completerisk assessments for training/development activities and events and then toimplement the findings rests firmly with individual Fire and Rescue Services. Thismanual and other national guidance on Health and Safety,2 Operational Practicesand Procedures and Generic and Dynamic Risk Assessment's secures safesystems of work and contain valuable information and will assist fire and rescueservices in meeting this obligation.

Basic equipment skills, standard practices and techniques

This type of activity e.g. working with hose, hydrants and pumps etc., should be riskassessed. This risk assessment should always include:

• a Scope, which describes the activities covered by the assessment.

• the Significant Hazards and Risks that are common to all activities of that type(e.g. working with hose, hydrants and pumps, etc.).

• the Key Control Measures that are considered necessary to reduce those risks.

1 Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1992 and ACOP, HSE, ISBN 0 11 886330 42 A Guide to Operational Risk Assessment Fire Service Guide Volume 3, TSO 1998

2 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Fire and Rescue Services will need to ensure that organisationally based controlmeasures for specific scenarios are relevant to local conditions andcircumstances.

Scenario Based Training

Specific scenario based training events should reflect the demands of real life workplaceactivity, (especially where it is intended to simulate emergency incidents) albeit in acontrolled environment. Significant benefits will be gained from planning andundertaking off-station events at sites with specific risks and hazards that crews maybe required to deal with if an incident occurs.

The Fire and Rescue Service must, of course, comply with Statutory Health and Safetyrequirements. Scenario based training and development activities which expose peopleto an element of risk may be undertaken, provided:

• any exposure to risk is essential to achieve clear and established learningoutcomes.

• the risk is not disproportionate to the benefits.

• effective supervision and safeguards are in place.

• people are prepared for the planned exposure by virtue of previous training anddevelopment.

• effective briefing and debriefing procedures are in place.

Once suitable scenarios have been identified, Fire and Rescue Services must conductsuitable and sufficient risk assessments and are strongly advised to use the generic riskassessment guidance as a framework to ensure that control measures relating tospecific incident types are in place.

The risk assessment should be carried out by a competent person. If the riskassessment is for an activity or event that will occur on more than one occasion, thenthe assessment should be reviewed and revised accordingly, to take into account anysignificant changes to the circumstances they describe. (See Section 5, 5.5.7.1.)

3.2 The Competence of Trainers

People responsible for supervising and/or delivering training and development activitiesshould be suitably competent and be provided in sufficient numbers to ensure aneffective overview and control of all stages and areas of the training event. They mustalso be empowered to take any action that will prevent or mitigate accidents or injuries.

Where such activity forms part of a person's main role e.g. crew or watch management,then the standard of performance required will be specified by the appropriate units andelements of the mainstream role map. This includes workplace assessment activities.

Section 3 Controlling Risk 3

Where a person has a specialist role as a trainer/developer, it is suggested that theywork to the appropriate Emergency Fire Service Trainer role maps, which contain unitsand elements from the Employment National Training Organisation (EMPNTO) Learningand Development National Occupational Standards.

It is emphasised that it is unnecessary to develop specialist trainers to the Al A2assessment Standards unless they will be undertaking assessment activity for thepurposes of awarding S/NVQ's. If this is not the case, appropriate Units and Elementswill be found in the EMPNTO Standards.

3.3 Use of Equipment

The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) contain a numberof requirements, one of which is that all equipment used in the course of work activity isassessed for its suitability for the intended purpose prior to use. This, of course, appliesto the equipment used by fire and rescue services. This requirement for suitability ofpurpose also applies to all equipment employed in the course of training or developmentactivity, for example, from a hydrant key and bar to a breathing apparatus set.

The type, quality and specification of equipment available for the use of peopleparticipating in training and development should be consistent with that available in theworkplace. Similarly, PPE provided and used during training should be to the samespecification as that employed in the workplace.

In addition to the requirement for work equipment to be suitable for its intended use,which includes training or development purposes, PUWER also requires employers toensure that equipment:

• is safe for use, maintained in a safe condition and inspected, tested andmaintained by competent persons.

• is used only by people who have received adequate information, instruction andtraining.

• is accompanied by suitable safety measures, e.g. protective devices, markings,warnings.

• conforms to CE requirements of the relevant EC Directives.• meets the requirements of PUWER 98 and where appropriate, Lifting Operations

and Lifting Equipment Regulationsi 998 (LOLER).3

Personnel who are required to use, inspect, test or maintain the equipment must receiveadequate:• information.• instruction.• training.• supervision

to enable them to do so.

3 The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998, HSC

4 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Detailed guidance on the requirements of PUWER is contained in an HSE ApprovedCode of Practice4 & Health and Safety Guidance Volume 2. Note — Any requirementsfrom this are the responsibility of the Fire and Rescue Service, not the individual trainers.

Fire and Rescue Service guidance on the requirements of PUWER and LOLER,particularly in relation to inspection and testing of equipment is contained in Fire ServiceManual Volume 1, Fire Service Technology, Equipment and Media, Inspection andTesting of Equipment. (ISBN 0 11 341274 6)

3.4 Suitability of Locations used for Trainingand Development Activity

The environment in which training and development activities and events are conductedmust complement the planned event(s) and the learning objectives, which in turn mustbe based on identified needs. Venues and facilities should not be used just becausethey happen to be available. The training area and any facilities that are likely to be usedshould be assessed and prepared prior to any activity being carried out, in particular:

• Before the activity commences, staircases, landings, windows, etc. must bechecked and cleared of obstructions and objects that are not required as part ofthe activity.

• Any hazards or risks not required to achieve the objectives should be eliminated orreduced.

When undertaking training/development events, particular regard should be given to thenature of the activity and any adverse consequences of the activity that might arise.

For example:

• Events involving real fire might cause a nuisance problem or health hazard for theoccupiers of property surrounding the venue owing to the production of smokeand fumes.

• Events involving the use of foam should be cleared with the local water authorityand the Environment Agency/Scottish Environment Protection Agency unless thereis an extant agreement regarding the use of foam at the location.

• The release of foam or other substances into groundwater, surface water drainsand watercourses is viewed extremely seriously by the Environment Agency/Scottish Environment Protection Agency and can have serious repercussions forthe individuals and organisations concerned.

• Fire and Fescue Services should consider undertaking environmental impact riskassessments where activities may possess the potential to affect the environment.

In the early stages of a firefighter's development, the objective of learning is theacquisition of knowledge, skills and understanding associated with basic equipment.

1 Safe Use of Work Equipment HSC, 1998, ISBN 0 7176 1626 65 Fire Service Guide to Health & Safety, Volume 2 — A Guide for Managers, TSO 1998, 0 11 341 219 3

Section 3 Controlling Risk 5

Practical activities will usually be carried out at a purpose built facility where theequipment can be examined and operated in a careful, controlled way. The environmentmust be conducive to effective and safe learning. Hazards should be identified andcontrolled. Inadvertent or unauthorised access to the areas where the activities takeplace should be prevented.

Consideration should be given, so far as is reasonably practicable, to the provision ofsuitable and effective measures to prevent:

• Anyone falling a distance that is likely to cause personal injury.

• Anyone being struck by a falling object that is likely to cause personal injury.

Any area where there is a risk to health or safety from any of these events shall beclearly indicated where appropriate. Time should not be critical and close supervisionshould be maintained.

Firefighters will be expected to apply their acquired skills and knowledge effectively andsafely at incidents in a potentially hostile and unpredictable environment. As individualand team competence develops, the type of location and environment in which thetraining is conducted can be varied. The aim is to enable people to performto the standards relevant to their role.

3.5 Management of Training and DevelopmentActivities and Events

The key elements of effective management of training and development events are:

• span of control.• work instructions.• pace of the activity.• procedures for serious and imminent danger.• contingency plans.

Span of Control

It is vital that training and development activities and events are adequately managed.Specific arrangements will depend upon the nature and scale of the event e.g. limitedlocal training may require only one supervising trainer to manage the entire event. Largerevents will require more stringent management and possibly sectorisation, whereby theuse of people to manage those sectors will be required. The use of specialist personnelshould also be considered.

Just as at real life incidents, Fire and Rescue Services will need to apply the IncidentCommand System (ICS) to training and development scenarios. This will assist inmanaging the event or activity safely and will also reinforce familiarity with the systemthereby increasing safety at actual incidents. Detailed guidance on ICS is available inthe Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Incident Command.

6 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Work Instructions

The following national work instructions are to be used whenever a coordinatedresponse is required to operationally related training/development activity. Theinstructions are also used for operational incidents.

Instruction: Action or meaning

Basic Safety Instructions

Still Used by any crew member with maximum force when necessary toprevent an accident; the crew remain perfectly still exactly wherethey are.

Rest Used by the trainers/facilitators when the need arises to make alearning point; the crew remain still.

Well To indicate that the position desired has been reached e.g., whenextending or lowering a ladder.

Carry on Given after 'Rest' or 'Still'; the crew carry on with what they weredoing.

As you were Cancels an instruction previously given; firefighters resume theirprevious positions.

Stand from under To be used by anybody who has to lower equipment or drop debrisfrom a height when there is a risk that it might strike someone.When lowering items, personnel should ensure that no-one isimmediately below. Also to be used when equipment is accidentallydropped from a height.

Stand by to lower To be used when two or more firefighters are to take the strain inpreparation to lower a heavy object.

Lower After taking the strain the firefighters all lower simultaneously.

Stand by to lift To be used when two or more firefighters are to take the strain to lifta heavy object.

Lift After taking the strain the firefighters all lift simultaneously.

As far as detailed This should be used so that a long procedure or one with— carry on considerable detail can be built up in stages.

Make up To stow all equipment used back on the appliance.

Ladder Instructions

Extend To increase the overall length of a ladder.

Extend to lower To raise the extending portion of a ladder to clear pawls forlowering.

Head in To move the head of a ladder towards a building.

Head out To move the head of a ladder away from a building.

Heel in To move the heel of a ladder into the building.

Section 3 Controlling Risk 7

Heel out To move the heel of a ladder away from a building.

House To reduce the overall length of a ladder to its stowed position.

Pawls To indicate when descending a ladder that the pawls are fitted onthe next round below and the feet should be placed towards thecentre of the round. This instruction, (along with 'Step in' and 'Stepout') should be used to accustom personnel to the procedure. Theinstruction should be given when the leading foot reaches roundimmediately above the hazard.

Pitch To erect a ladder against a building, e.g. 'Pitch to the third floor'.

Props-down Used by the person in charge of the ladder during the 'High Wind'procedure of a 13.5m ladder drill. Once the ladder has been sited,the props are then rested on the ground to support it for extension.

Slip To remove a ladder from the appliance.

Step in To indicate that the overlap of extension is reached whendescending a ladder with extensions on the underside. (See Note on'Pawls' above).

Step out To indicate that the overlap of the extension has been reached whendescending a ladder with extensions on the underside. (See Note on'Pawis' above).

Under run To raise a ladder from a horizontal to a vertical position and viceversa.

Lower To lower the extending portion of a ladder.

Pump Instructions

Water on To turn on the hydrant, open a delivery valve on the pump, etc.,according to the drill being performed.

Knock off To close down the water supply at the pump delivery and/or the

hydrant.

3.6 Emergency ArrangementsProcedures for Serious and Imminent Danger

Contingency plans should include the treatment and/or evacuation of any injuredpersons or indeed to abort the event if an accident occurs. It is important that any realemergency that may occur during training/development activity is dealt with correctlyand without delay.

A message or code should be formulated for use only in the event of a real emergencye.g. a person acting as a casualty becoming ill or being injured. This term should beidentified in the event/activity plan and made known to all the participants. The messageor code word should be distinct, easy to recall and readily understood. (See alsoAppendix 7, Fire and Rescue Service Signals).

8 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Plans should consider issues such as the availability of sufficient first aid equipment,contact numbers for emergency medical response etc.

Arrangements must be made to deal with situations of serious and imminent danger thatmay occur during training/development events or activities. The specific arrangementswill depend on the nature of the event. It is vital that normal emergency systems are notcompromised during the activity. The use of Automatic Distress Signalling Units(ADSUs), for example, should not normally be part of any scenario, the exception beingtraining events where participants are tasked with locating an ADSU. On theseoccasions, additional control measures will need to be in place to ensure an appropriatemargin of safety for Breathing Apparatus (BA) wearers.

Specific arrangements should be identified in the training/development activity riskassessment.

Control measures must include:• the nomination of person/s to initiate emergency procedures;• the action that people should take if emergency procedures are initiated.

Further detailed guidance on the requirements of the procedures for dealing with seriousand imminent danger is contained within the Management of Health & Safety at WorkRegulations 1999 and the accompanying HSC approved code of practice.6

3.7 Personal Protective Equipment

The level of personal protective equipment (PPE) provided and used during training anddevelopment activity must normally be the same as that provided for use at realincidents.

An example of when this may not be the case is in the use of chemical protective suits.The suits used for training are often identical in design to those used to protect againsthazardous materials save for their chemical protective capabilities. As hazardousmaterials are not used for training or development purposes, it is unnecessary for thesuits to be chemically resistant. In every other respect, they are identical to theequipment provided for use at incidents.

People must be aware of the use and limitations of every item of PPE and mustunderstand how it should be maintained.

Personnel must ensure that any personal protective equipment damaged during atraining/development activity or event is immediately reported to the responsible person,in order that a replacement can be provided.

Note: Wearing personal jewellery can be hazardous and such items should beremoved before taking part in practical activities. Rings, etc. that cannot beremoved should be covered with adhesive tape.

6 Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and ACOP ISBN 0 11 886330 4

Section 3 Controlling Risk 9

Contents4.1 Principles for the Management of Standard

Practices 3PSP1: To mount the appliance with a crew of four 4PSP2: To mount the appliance with a crew of five 5

4.2 Hydrant/Hose Standard Practices 7Hi: To get a branch to work using one line of hose from a hydrantwith a crew of four 13H2: To add a length to a line of hose and advance the branchwith a crew of four 17H3: To remove a length from a line of hose with a crew of four 19H4: To replace a burst length of hose with a crew of four 21H5: To get a branch to work aloft using a line with a crew of four 23H6: To divide a length of hose into two using a dividing breechingwith a crew of five 27H7: To remove a dividing breeching from a line of hose witha crew of five 29

4.3 Pump Standard Practices 31P1: To get one hose-reel to work with a crew of four 35P2: To extend a hose-reel length when only one hose-reelis in use (crew of four) 37P3: To augment the supply of water from a hydrant with acrew of four 39P4: To get two hose-reels to work and augment the supplywith a crew of five. 41P5: To get a pump to work from a hydrant using soft suctionwith a crew of four (one delivery) 43P6: To get a pump to work from a hydrant using soft suctionwith a crew of five (two deliveries) 45P7: To get a pump to work from a mains supply with a low flowrate using soft suction from two hydrants (two deliveries) with acrew of five 49P8: To get a pump to work from open water with a crew of four(one delivery) 51

P9: To get a pump to work from open water with a crew of five(two deliveries) 55PlO: To get a ground monitor to work with a crew of five 57P11: To get a portable pump to work from open water with a crewof five (two deliveries) 59

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1

4.4 Ladder Standard Practices 61PSPL: (Preliminary Standard Practice) Use of Ladder BeamGantry System with a crew of four 75Li: To Slip and Pitch a 9m and 1 0.5m ladder with a crew of four 81

L2: To Slip and Pitch a 9m and 1 0.5m ladder with a crew of three 85L3: To Slip and Pitch a 13.5m ladder with a crew of four 89L4: To Slip and Pitch a 13.5m ladder over an obstruction witha crew of five 93L5: To Pitch a 13.5m ladder in a restricted space with a crewof four 97

4.5 Foam Standard Practices 101Fl: To get a foam making branch to work with a crew of four 103F2: To get an in-line foam generator to work with a crew of five(One delivery) 105F3: To get an in-line foam generator to work with a crew of five(Two deliveries) 107F4: To get an in-line variable inductor to work with a crewof five (One delivery). 111

4.6 Pump and Ladder Standard Practices 113PL1: To get a hose-reel to work aloft via a ladder from a pumpwithacrewoffour 115PL2: To get a line of hose to work aloft via a ladder from apump working from a hydrant using soft suction(one delivery) with a crew of four 119PL3: To get a line of hose to work aloft via a ladder froma pump working from open water (one delivery) with acrew of four 123

4.7 Techniques 127Ti: To pick up and lower an insensible person with two rescuers 129T2: To effect a rescue using rope and associated equipment witha crew of three 133T3: To safeguard a firefighter working near an unguarded edgeusing rope and associated equipment 137T4: To effect a rescue using five personnel, an extension ladder,rope and associated equipment 141T5: To safeguard a firefighter descending then ascending a fixedvertical ladder using rope and associated equipment 145T6: To bridge a 9m or 1 0.5m ladder with a crew of four 149T7: To define and implement the nine main protocols requiredto ensure the safe extrication of a casualty from an entrapment situation 153T8: To stabilise a vehicle still on its wheels prior to casualty extrication 155T9: To remove the side of a four-door saloon car to providemaximum access to a casualty prior to extrication 157TlO: To define and operate the one metre and two metre safe workingarea around a motor vehicle involved in a road traffic accident 163Til: To familiarise personnel with the operation and use of aerialappliances and associated equipment 165

2 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

4.1 Principles of Standard Practices andTechniques

Introduction

To ensure the safe and efficient use of equipment and standard operating procedures itis essential that all involved are familiar with and practised in their use.To enable this, standard practices are applied to the development of routine task andequipment skills. These provide a component part of safe systems of work and allowteams to work effectively and safely with major items of fire and rescue serviceequipment. Standard Practices allow a team to become familiar with handling equipmentand performing tasks that require a co-ordinated approach. Although primarily used tobuild up the safety and skills base of new entrants, they may also be used to trainexperienced teams in basic handling techniques needed to use new items of equipment.

This fundamental learning/development activity can be conducted at a tempo, andpractised at a frequency, to suit the needs of the individuals and/or the team as theyendeavour to acquire or maintain skills. These practices and routines should beundertaken in a range of conditions, covering such things as varying weather conditionsand time of day. The knowledge and skills acquired should be applied to furtherdevelopment of activities that incorporate task management, contingency management,role and work environmental skills.

Techniques are another component part to form a safe system of work. These enablecrews to apply their skills to achieve defined objectives using specific equipment andshould be practised to suit the level of performance of the participants. This allowspeople to practise their skills in specific situations and different environments.Techniques should be developed and practiced to ensure that relative knowledge, skillsand understanding are demonstrated by both individuals and teams.

The learning objectives include the:

• theory and practical knowledge in the safe and effective operation of equipment.• improvement in the skills base of individuals and teams.• awareness of the limitations of equipment.

NOTE The numbers referring to people in the following Standard Practices are:

1 = Crew Manager2 = Driver3 = Crew Member4 = Crew Member5 = Crew Member

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 3

Preliminary Standard Practice PSP1

Aim: To mount the appliance with a crew of fourPrior Learning:

All personnel should understand the meaning of the words of command outlined insection 3.5 (work instructions), and notes on principles of standard practices andtechniques (4.1).

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

4 Mounting and dismounting the appliance.

'Get to Work'

• On the command "Fall in" the named crew fall in three paces to the rear of andfacing the appliance as shown in the diagram.

• On the command "Crew mount" Nos 1 and 3 turn half left, Nos 2 and 4 turn halfright and take up their riding positions on the appliance as shown in the diagrambelow with:

• On the command "Change round" crew members as necessary dismount.• The crew move in an anti-clockwise direction to take up their new riding positions by

either dismounting or moving within the cab as shown in the diagram below so that:

'Make Up'

No. 2 sitting in the driver's seatNo. 1 sitting to the left of No. 2No. 3 sitting behind No. 1No. 4 sitting behind No. 2

• On the command "Crew dismount" the crew take up a position three paces to therear of and facing the appliance.

4 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

1 3 4 2

Preliminary Standard Practice PSP2

Aim: To mount the appliance with a crew of fivePrior Learning:

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding for PSP1.

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Mounting and dismounting the appliance.

'Get to Work'

• On the command "Fall in" the named crew fall in three paces to the rear of andfacing the appliance as shown in the diagram.

• On the command "Crew mount" Nos 1 and 3 turn half left, Nos 2, 4 and 5 turn halfright and take up their riding positions on the appliance as shown in the diagrambelow with:

'Make Up'

No. 2 sitting in the driver's seatNo. 1 sitting to the left of No. 2No. 5 sitting in the centre behind Nos 1 and 2No. 3 sitting behind No. 1No. 4 sitting behind No. 2

• On the command "Crew dismount" the crew take up a position three paces to therear of and facing the appliance.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 5

1 3 4 5 2

6 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

4.2 Hydrant/Hose Standard PracticesPurpose:

Hydrant/hose Standard Practices are designed to provide systems of work, which willenable crews to acquire the skills, knowledge and attitude to move onto those StandardPractices which require the safe, effective co-ordination of more complex pump work.

Hydrant/hose Standard Practices are fundamental learning activities which should beconducted at a pace, and practised at a frequency, to suit the level of performance ofthe individual and/or the crew as they endeavour to acquire or maintain competence.

When personnel are proficient in these Standard Practices their primary purpose willhave been served and the knowledge and skills acquired should be applied and furtherdeveloped with more advanced training.

Generic Risk Assessment: Hydrant/Hose Standard Practices

Scope:

The following generic risk assessment summarises the common significant hazards,risks and control measures relating to the conduct of hydrant/hose standard practices.

Fire and Rescue Services will need to review the findings of both the common andadditional risk assessments within the context of local conditions and circumstancesand implement appropriate control measures.

All personnel who take part in these Standard Practices should be aware of the commonand additional hazards associated with each of the standard practices.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 7

The following points apply to all hydrant and hose standard practices:

+ Immediately after shipping a standpipe the hydrant valve should be openedmomentarily to clear the outlet of any obstruction.

• When referring to hose, whether suction or delivery, the first length is the lengthnearest the hydrant.

• Hose rolled on the female coupling:

Figure 4.3.1

> When rolled hose is being carried before it is run out, the male couplingshould be allowed to hang down about 300mm from the front of the roll.To run out rolled hose, the lugs of the female coupling (which are at thecentre of the roll) are taken one in each hand, the hose is held chest high andis allowed to revolve around the lugs and pay out on the right hand side ofthe body. (Figure 4.3.1)

: Anyone who has already run out a length of hose should keep hold of thefemale coupling with the right hand, and then take hold of the male couplingof the next length in the left hand and make the connection.

) On reaching the target area, any excess hose should be laid out in the formof a bight.

> Dutch-rolled hose:

Figure 4.3.2

8 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Dutch-rolled hose should be carried under the arm, with the top of the rollsecurely in the armpit and the hand supporting the bottom of the roll. Thecouplings should be within a few millimetres of each other and should hangdown just behind the hand.

L1 To run the hose out, the hose immediately above the coupling should begripped and the other hand brought to the top of the roll. (Figure 4.3.2)Both hands thrust the hose forward so that it rolls in the direction of thetarget area.The male coupling should be handed to the firefighter making the connectionand the female coupling taken in the direction of the target area until thehose has been laid out.

• Flaked hose:Flaked hose, which is often made up in trays, may already be coupled to thepump and generally has a branch fitted so that it can be run out withoutdelay.All the hose must be withdrawn from the tray before the delivery is opened.The length of the line of hose varies but is usually at least two lengths. 45mmdiameter hose is frequently used because of ease of handling.The hose should be run out by gripping the branch and coupling and runningtowards the target area.

• Branch holding (Figure 4.3.3):The firefighter standing on the left should allow the hose to come up underthe right arm. The right hand should be under the coupling. The left handshould be on top of the branch.

c The firefighter on the right should place the right hand on the top of thebranch and the left hand under the hose.I Both firefighters should exert a forward and downward pressure.

• Changing the branch holder:When the branch holder is using a hand controlled branch, it should be shutdown before attempting a change over.To relieve the holder on the left:— The relieving branch holder will approach from the left side and place

the left hand on that of the original branch holder, who will then drawtheir own hand away.

— The relieving holder should then turn to face the target area and placethe right hand in position under the coupling. The original holder shouldthen step to the rear, clear of the branch.

To relieve the holder on the right:— The relieving branch holder will approach from the right, placing the

right hand on top of the original holder's hand. The original holder willdraw their hand away.

— The relieving holder then turns to face the target area and should placethe left hand under the hose. The original holder will step to the rear.

+ Making up:A hydrant must always be turned off slowly to prevent water hammer.When breaking couplings, the source of supply should be faced with themale coupling held between the knees. This prevents the coupling droppingto the ground and being damaged.Prior to under-running, hose should be laid flat, straight and free from kinkswhich would trap water. On level ground hose should be under-run from themale end. On sloping ground it should be under-run from the highercoupling. Hose should not be walked on to remove water as this can causedamage.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 9

10

After under-running, the hose should be rolled up starting with the femalecoupling, the first few turns being made tightly. Then, pushing with bothhands together and on top of the roll, the length should be completed,keeping the coil even and flat. When the male coupling is reached the hoseshould be rolled over it so that the coupling comes out on top. Coils of hosemust not be jumped on to get the coil even.

Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

- I'

Figure 4.3.3

Hazard/Risk Control Measures

Manual handling • Personnel must be aware of the potential dangers from anymanual handling activity during preliminary standardpractices, for example lifting and carrying hose;

• the correct method of lifting, carrying and under-runninghose.

• Fire and Rescue Services should ensure that cabs aredesigned in such a way that minimises the potential injurieswhen crews are mounting and dismounting appliance.

Water pressure • Crew members should stand clear when releasing anyconnection under pressure.

• Whenever possible there should be two firefighters on thebranch before the full flow is allowed to develop.

• The hydrant must be opened slowly and the hose chargedgradually so that messengers can return to the branchesand assist before the full flow is allowed to develop.

• Crews must be aware of the influence of pressure andnozzle diameter on the reaction of the branch.

• Personnel must be aware of the effects of uncontrolledrelease of high pressure water and the actions to be takenshould such a release occur.

• Couplings or pressure release couplings should not bereleased whilst under pressure, in particular, when makingup hose after working aloft.

Being struck by • All crew members must be aware of the sequence ofbranch out of numbering hose linescontrol • Hydrant operator positioned in line of sight of branch holders.

• Hydrant operator maintains communication with branchholders.

• All messages relating to the delivery of water must includethe number of the line, position of the branch and berepeated for confirmation.

• Crew familiar with 'branch out of control procedure', i.e.:The hydrant should be closed immediately.

Slips, trips and • Hydrant covers should be placed in a safe position acrossfalls the pit when the hydrant is in use. Warning lights should be

placed in position when visibility is poor.• Consideration should be given to the use of lightweight

barriers.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 11

1 2 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Standard Practice: HI

Aim: To get a branch to work using one line ofhose from a hydrant with a crew of four

Prior learning:

Crews should be have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding from thenotes on Hydrant/Hose Standard Practices (section 4.2).

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Shipping a standpipe, key and bar.• Carrying hose.• Running out lengths of hose.• Connecting and disconnecting lengths of hose.• Carrying the branch whilst running out hose.• Connecting and disconnecting the branch to the hose.• Connecting and disconnecting the hose to the standpipe.• Holding a branch.• Operating a branch.• Operating a hydrant.• Under-running a length of hose.• Making up lengths of hose.• Giving appropriate words of command.

'Get to work'

Hose rolled on the female coupling

• No. 2 takes a standpipe, hydrant key and bar, removes the hydrant cover andships the standpipe and key.

• No. 4 takes a length of hose, places the male coupling on the groundapproximately half a metre behind the hydrant.

• No. 2 secures the hose underfoot.• No. 4 runs the hose out.• No. 2 connects it to the standpipe.• No. 3 carries a length of hose under the right arm and follows two or three paces

behind No. 4.+ When No. 4 has run out the hose, No. 3 overtakes No. 4, No. 4 taking the male

coupling as No. 3 passes.• No. 4 makes the connection.• No. 3 runs out the hose and holds the female coupling in the right hand.• No. 1 tucks the branch under the left arm, nozzle pointing downwards and towards

the rear, carries a length of hose under the right arm and follows two or threepaces behind No. 3.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 3

• When No. 3 has run out the hose, No. 1 overtakes No. 3, No. 3 taking the malecoupling as No. 1 passes.

+ No. 3 makes the connection.• No. 1 runs out the hose.+ No. 1 holding the female coupling in the left hand, connects the branch with the

right hand.• As the hose is run out, Nos 3 and 4 follow No. 1 to the branch.• No. 4 checks that the hose is free from kinks.• When all is in readiness No. 1 sends No. 4 with the message "Water on".• No. 4 delivers the message to No. 2.• No. 2 turns on the hydrant.• No. 4 returns to the branch and generally assists.

Dutch rolled hose

• No. 2 takes a standpipe, hydrant key and bar, removes the hydrant cover andships the standpipe and key.

• No. 4 takes a length of hose and throws it forward from the hydrant, hands themale coupling to No. 2 and then lays out the hose.

• No. 2 connects the standpipe.• No. 3 takes a length of hose and carrying it under the left arm with the right hand

supporting it in front of the coupling, follows two or three paces behind No. 4.• When No. 4 has run out the hose, No. 3 throws the length forward, hands the male

coupling to No. 4 who makes the connection and runs forward with the femalecoupling.

• No. 1 takes the branch in the left hand and a length of hose under the right armand follows two or three paces behind No. 3.

• When No. 3 has run out the hose, No. 1 places the branch on the ground andthrows the length of hose forward, picks up the branch, connects it to the femalecoupling and hands the male coupling to No. 3.

• No. 3 connects the hose.• As the hose is run out, Nos 3 and 4 follow No. 1 to the branch.• No. 4 checks that the hose is free from kinks.+ When Nos 1 and 3 are on the branch No. 1 sends back No. 4 with the message

"Water on".• No. 4 delivers the message to No. 2.• No. 2 turns on the hydrant.• No. 4 returns to the branch and generally assists.

1 4 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

• No. 1 sends No.4 with the message: "Knock off" or "Knock off and make up".• No. 4 delivers the message to No. 2, who turns off the hydrant.

'Make up'• No. 1 returns the branch.• No. 2 unships the standpipe, key and bar, makes up the hydrant and returns all

gear.• All members of the crew under-run and make up the hose.• When all gear is made up, No. 1 reports to the Officer-in-Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• None.

Additional Key Control Measures

• None.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 5

No 1,3&4

II"INo 1-3 Length No 3-2 Length No 4-1st Length

+Nol &3

'Ut'I

1*No 2

No 4 delivers messagesbetween Nol &No2

1*No.2

'Knock off' or 'Knock off and make up'

1 6 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Standard Practice: H2

Aim: To add a length to a line of hose andadvance the branch with a crew of four

Prior learning:

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forstandard practice Hi.

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:• Adding a length of hose to a line of hose.• Advancing with a charged line of hose.

'Get to work'

The hose is laid out as in standard practice Hi

+ No. 1 gives the order "Add a length".• No. 4 obtains a length of hose and runs it out in a bight immediately behind the

branch.• When the flow ceases, No. 1 removes the branch and connects it to the added

length.• No. 3 makes the connection between the added length and existing hose line.• Having ensured that No. i is ready, No. 4 gives No. 2 the order "Water on".• Nos 1, 3 and 4 then advance the hose.

No 1 & 3

New length

Hose laid outas in standard

1*No 2

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 7

No 4

'Knock off' or 'Knock off and make-up'

• AsH1.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• Trips, slips and falls whilst advancing the branch.

Additional Key Control Measures

• The branch crew should pay particular attention to their footing and balance.• Safety Officers to monitor crew safety whilst advancing the branch

1 8 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Standard Practice: H3

Aim: To remove a length from a line of hose witha crew of four

Prior learning:

All personnel should be competent in standard practice Hi.

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Removing a length from a line of hose.

'Get to work'

The hose is laid out as in standard practice Hi

+ No. 1 gives the order "Remove a length".• No. 4 gives No. 2 the order "Knock off".• Immediately the order is given, No. 4 proceeds to the first coupling behind the

branch.• When the flow ceases, No. 1 disconnects the branch.• No. 4 disconnects the first coupling behind the branch.• No. 3 assists No. 1 to reconnect the branch at its new position.• Having ensured that No. i is ready, No. 4 gives No. 2 the order "Water on".+ No. 4 then returns to the branch and clears the removed length from the working

area.

'Knock off' or 'Knock off and make up'

+ AsinHi.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• None.

Additional Key Control Measures

+ None.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 9

Nol &3Hose laid outas in standard

practice Hi

1*No 2

20 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

No 4removes length

Standard Practice: H4

Aim: To replace a burst length of hose with acrew of four

Prior learning:

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forstandard practice Hi.

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the method of:

• Removing and replacing a burst length of hose in a line of hose.• Indicating a burst length of hose.+ Making up a burst length of hose.

'Get to work'

The hose is laid out as in standard practice Hi

• No. 1 gives the order "Replace burst length".• No. 4 takes a length of hose and runs it out alongside of the burst length.• No. 4 gives the order "Knock off" to No. 2.• When the flow ceases No. 3 assists No. 4 to disconnect the burst length and insert

the new length.

No ito No 4Replace burst length

..\ of the burst lengthNo 1 & 3Il"

New length

INo2

No 4

No iNo3 No4

4I*IIINew length

L1

No 2

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 21

• No. 3 then proceeds to the branch and informs No. 1 that the new length is inposition.

• No. 4 returns to No. 2, with the message "Water on" and then ties an overhandknot in each end of the burst length.

'Knock off' or 'Knock off and make up'

• AsinHi.• When the burst length of hose is made up, the overhand knots should be removed

and the hose rolled up on the male coupling.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• None.

Additional Key Control Measures

• None.

22 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Standard Practice: H5

Aim: To get a branch to work aloft using a linewith a crew of four

Prior learning:

All personnel should be have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forstandard practice Hi and knots and lines.

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Running out hose in preparation for hauling aloft.+ Securing a line to the hose and branch for hauling aloft.• Haul a line of hose aloft.• Secure a line of hose aloft.• Manoeuvre a charged line of hose at an upper level.• Lowering a line of hose from aloft.

'Get to work'

• No. 1 takes a branch, a length of hose and a long line and proceeds to thebuilding.

• No. 1 runs out the hose in a bight outside the building and connects the branch tothe hose.

• The branch is laid down at the point where it is to be hauled aloft.• No. 2 ships the standpipe, key and bar.• No. 4 takes a length of hose and runs it out from the hydrant towards the building.• No. 3 takes a length of hose and runs it out from the first length and then lays the

female coupling adjacent, but not connected to, the male coupling of the lengthrun out by No.1.

• No. 1 takes a line and accompanied by No. 3 enters the building and proceedsaloft.

• At the appropriate level No. 1 gives the warning "Stand From Under" and lowersthe line down the face of the building.

• No. 4 secures the line to the hose by means of a rolling hitch approximately 3mfrom the branch.

• No. 4 also forms a clove hitch on the line, approximately half a metre from therolling hitch and connects it to the branch to ensure that the tension is on the lineand not on the hose.

+ When the line is secured, Nos 1 and 3 haul up the hose.• No. 4 guides the hose up the face of the building standing clear of the area directly

below the hose.• The hose is hauled up until the rolling hitch is above the coping or window sill. The

clove hitch is then removed from the branch by Nos 1 and 3 and the line madefast at the most convenient position ensuring that the rolling hitch securing thehose is positioned approximately half a metre outside and below the coping orwindow sill.

• No. 4 takes a position on the ground in order to see where the hose enters thebuilding.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 23

• No. 1 gives the order "Water on", No. 3 then proceeds to the point where the hoseenters the building and passes the message to No. 4 either verbally or by handsignal, and then returns to the branch.

+ No. 4 connects the couplings at the base of the building, and passes the messageto No. 2.

• No. 2 turns on the hydrant.• No. 4 enters the building and joins Nos 1 and 3 at the branch.

I,No 2

No 2

24 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Coupling at base of buildingnot to be connecteduntil water-on ordered

No 1 — 3rd length laidout in a Bight, connectsbranch & supplies line

No3 Nol

Clovehitch

Rollinghitch

.1st length

rE;l:J11Ir((I Iii'

'Knock off' or 'Knock off and make up'

• No. 1 sends No. 4 to No. 2 with the message "Knock off" or "Knock off andmake up".

• No. 4 delivers the message to No. 2 who turns off the hydrant.

'Make up'

+ No. 2 turns off the hydrant, breaks the pressure-release coupling of the standpipeand makes up the hydrant gear.

• No. 4 disconnects the coupling on the ground nearest the base of the building.• No. 3 hauls up the hose so that the rolling hitch is above the coping or window sill.• No. 1 secures the branch with a clove hitch.• No. 1 and 3 lower the hose and branch whilst No. 4 guides the hose as it is

lowered, standing clear of the area directly underneath.• No. 1 gives the warning "Stand from under" then drops the end of the line and

descends with No. 3.• All crew members make up the hose.• When all gear is made up, No. 1 reports to the Officer-in-Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks:

• Charged hose lines may become unsecured and fall from above.

Additional Key Control Measures:

• Close supervision of knot tying.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 25

26 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Standard Practice: H6

Aim: To divide a line of hose into two using adividing breeching with a crew of five

Prior learning:

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forstandard practice Hi.

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Adding a dividing breeching to a line of hose.• Operating branches fed from a dividing breeching.

'Get to work'

The hose is laid out as in standard practice Hi

• No. 1 gives the order to No. 5 "Insert dividing breeching".• No. 5 provides a dividing breeching and places it adjacent to the coupling where

the line is to be divided.• No. 4 provides a length of hose and a branch and runs out the hose from the

position where the breeching is to be inserted, connects the branch and takescharge of it.

• No. 5 connects the male coupling into the breeching.

Insert Dividing-Breeching

1*No 2

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 27

No 5

No 4

No 4 & 5

+ When all is ready No. 5 gives the order to No. 2 "Knock off".• When the flow ceases, No. 5 breaks the hose line, inserts the breeching,

reconnects the hose and gives the order to No. 2 "Water on".• No. 5 joins No. 4 at the second branch.

'Knock Off' or 'Knock Off and Make Up'

• No. 1 gives No. 5 the order "Knock off and make up".• No. 5 delivers the message to No. 2, who turns off the hydrant.

Make Up

• When the flow ceases, No. 5 disconnects and returns the breeching.• Nos 1 and 4 disconnect and return the branches.• All crew members make up the hose.+ When all the gear is made up No. 1 reports to the Officer in Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• When two lines of hose are being used from a dividing breeching and one isclosed off at the dividing breeching, or a branchpipe is suddenly closed down,there will be an increase of pressure on the remaining line. This will increase jetreaction and may cause loss of control of the second branch.

Additional Key Control Measures

• Personnel informed of the risk.• Dividing breechings and branches are closed down slowly.• No. 2 is informed of the intention to close off a line from the dividing

breeching.• Additional supervision should be given to these aspects of the standard practice.

28 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Standard Practice: H7

Aim: To remove a dividing breeching from a lineof hose with a crew of five

Prior learning:

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forstandard practice H6.

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Removing a dividing breeching from a line of hose.

'Get to work'

Equipment is laid out as detailed in standard practice H6

• No. 1 gives the order to No. 5 "Remove dividing breeching".+ No. 5 gives the order to No. 2 to "Knock Off".• When the flow ceases, No. 5 disconnects the breeching.

No 1 & No 5- — "RemoveDividing

Breeching"

No 1 & 3

1*No 2

No 4

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 29

ReturnsBreeching

ReturnsBranch

3rd length

1*No 2

• No. 5 reconnects the length of hose which is to continue at work and gives No. 2the order "Water on".

• No. 4 disconnects and returns the branch.• No. 5 returns the breeching.+ Nos 4 and 5 make up and return surplus hose.

'Knock Off' or 'Knock Off and Make Up'

• As detailed in standard practice Hi.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• None.

Additional Key Control Measures

• None.

30 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

No 1 & 3

ReturnSurplus

4.3 Pump Standard PracticesPurpose:

The pump Standard Practices detailed within this section provide systems of work,which will enable crews to work effectively, and safely with Fire and Rescue Servicepumps.

As with all Standard Practices they are learning activities which should be conducted ata pace, and practiced at a frequency, to suit the level of performance of the individualand/or the crew as they endeavour to acquire or maintain the skills that lead tocorn petence.

Pump Signals:See appendix 7

Generic Risk Assessment: Working With Pumps

1 SCOPE

The assessment detailed below summarises the findings of the common significanthazards, risks and control measures relating to the use of pumps and should be appliedto the Standard Practices contained within this section.

Additional significant hazards and risks particular to each standard practice areindicated in the specific section on that standard practice.

Fire and Rescue Services will need to review the findings of both the common andadditional risk assessments within the context of local conditions and circumstancesand implement appropriate control measures.

All personnel who take part in these Standard Practices should be aware of the commonand additional hazards associated with each of the standard practices.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 31

2 SIGNIFICANT HAZARDS AND RISKS

Hazard/Risk Control Measures

Manual handling • Personnel must be aware of:the potential dangers from any manual handling activity duringpreliminary standard practices, for example lifting and carryinghose;

" the correct method of lifting, carrying and under-running hose.+ Fire and Rescue Services should ensure that cabs are designed in

such a way that minimises the potential injuries when crews aredismounting the Appliance.

• All manual handling activities are to be assessed and controlmeasures identified and implemented to minimise risks.

Water pressure + Personnel must be aware of the effects of uncontrolled release ofhigh pressure water and the actions to be taken should such arelease occur.

• Couplings or pressure release couplings should not be releasedwhilst under pressure, in particular, when making up hose afterworking aloft.

• Crew members should stand clear when releasing any connectionunder pressure.

• Whenever possible there should be two firefighters on the branchbefore the full flow is allowed to develop.

• The pump delivery must be opened slowly and the hose chargedgradually so that messengers can return to the branches andassist before the full flow is allowed to develop.

• Crews must be aware of the influence of pressure and nozzlediameter on the reaction of the branch.

Being struck by + All crew members aware of sequence of numbering deliverybranch out of outlets and hose lines. The deliveries must be referred to bycontrol or by hose numbers starting from the nearside. On side mounted deliveriesfittings the numbers start from the forward nearside delivery and run

anti-clockwise.• Pump operator positioned in line of sight of branch holders and

pump gauges.• Pump operator maintains communication with branch holders.• All messages relating to the delivery of water must include the

number of the delivery, pump pressure required, position of thebranch and be repeated for confirmation.

• The pump operator must open up the delivery valves and chargethe hose slowly to allow the gradual build-up of pressure so thatthe messengers can return to the branches and assist before thefull flow is allowed to develop.

• When different pressures are requested for hose lines originatingfrom the same pump, the pump must be operated at the lowestpressure.

• Engine speed must be adjusted to avoid variations in flow andpressure when opening and closing deliveries.

• Crew familiar with "branch out of control procedure", i.e.:the pump operator should immediately close the pump throttlefollowed by closure of the delivery valve;

• Standard couplings or pressure release couplings should notbe released whilst under pressure, in particular:> when releasing a blank cap from a spare delivery of a pump;

when making up hose after working aloft.

32 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Hazard/Risk Control Measures

Slips, trips and falls + Hydrant covers should be placed in a safe position across thepit when the hydrant is in use. Warning lights should be placedin position when visibility is poor.

• Guardrails or appropriate forms of barrier should beconsidered and also, where necessary, the provision of lifejackets when working near to or close by open water sources,e.g.:

fast flowing and deep rivers;weirs and dams;harbours and docks.

(see Fire Service Manual, Safe Working Near, On or In Water)

Note: The following notes apply to pump standard practices.

• When refilling water tanks on appliances, pressure should not be allowed to buildup after the tank is full. A small internal pressure is capable of doing substantialdamage. Where a tank is fitted with an overflow the continual flow is not onlywasteful but may cause flooding. Where an appliance is standing on soft ground itcould become bogged down.

• Pumps should not be run without water in the casing longer than is necessary asthis causes damage on the impeller neck rings and, in some cases, to the pumpgland.

• At the completion of a standard practice, hose and equipment is generally madeup and returned to the appliance by those who provided it. Additionally, wheremore equipment than usual has been laid out, on either the delivery side or theinlet side of the pump, all members of a crew assist in making up regardless ofwhether or not they provided the equipment.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 33

ExhaustFumes

• Standard practices may incorporate the changing from one set of equipment toanother e.g. from the hose-reel to main jet. For the purpose of the standardpractice the disused equipment may be left until the general "Make up" order isgiven. However, this would not be considered good practice on the fireground. Theequipment left lying around on the fireground should be made up and restowed onthe appliance as soon as circumstances allow.

• When joining two lengths of suction hose, two firefighters should stand face toface gripping the suction between their knees. Each firefighter uses one wrenchwhich should be held to obtain maximum leverage.

• All suction should be correctly secured by line in such a way that the line takes thefull weight:

Double the line into two equal halves and lay it alongside the suction hosewith the centre of the line near to the strainer.Place the running end of the line clear of operations.Make a clove hitch around the neck of the strainer below the lugs. If a basketstrainer is fitted, the line should be adjusted over the skirt of the strainer insuch a way as to catch the lugs.Face the pump and place the right foot between the suction and the runningpart of the line. Coil the standing part of the line in the right hand.Walk towards the pump with the suction between the feet. At each couplinglift the suction with the left hand and throw the coiled line underneath andaround the suction to form a half-hitch underneath the female coupling.Tie off the line at the pump with a round turn and two half hitches.The tension of the line should be adjusted before the suction is lowered intothe water so that each length is slightly bowed and the line takes the weightoff the suction when it is in its final position. The running end of the lineshould be taken from the strainer to the pump to enable the strainer to behauled up for cleaning.

Standing

34 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Secure to fixed objectwith a round turn& two half hitches

Standard Practice: P1

Aim: To get one hose-reel to work with a crew offour

Prior learning:

All personnel should be have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding fornotes on Pump Standard Practices (section 4.3).

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Operating a major pump.• Laying out a hose-reel.+ Holding a hose-reel branch.• Operating a hose-reel branch.• Making up a line of hose-reel.

'Get to work'

• No. 2 engages the pump and selects high pressure (where appropriate), and opensthe tank valve.

• No. 1 takes the hose-reel and opens the reel valve where fitted, checks that thehose-reel is charged by a short operation of the hose-reel branch, and commencesto lay out the hose-reel.

No 2 EngagesPump & selectsHigh Pressure& opens Tank

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 35

I."INo 3

No 2

No 1"Make-up"

No 4

+ No. 2 pulls it off the reel.• Nos 3 and 4 clear the hose-reel and join No. 1 at the branch.

'Knock Off and Make Up'

• No. 1 sends back No.4 with the message "Knock off and make up".• No. 2 closes the hose-reel valve (where fitted) and tank valve, and disengages the

pump.• Nos 1, 3 and 4 make up the hose-reel.• When all gear is made up, No. 1 reports to the Officer in Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• Slips, trips and falls due to the nature and amount of hose reel tubing.

Additional Key Control Measures

• Monitor crew safety to ensure that hose reel run off is kept to a minimum.

36 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Standard Practice: P2

Aim: To extend a hose-reel length when only onehose-reel is in use (crew of four)

Prior Learning:

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forstandard practice P1.

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Disconnecting and connecting lengths of hose-reel tubing.• Disconnecting and connecting the hose-reel branch.

'Get to Work'

The hose-reel is got to work as detailed in standard practice P1.

• No. 1 gives the order to No. 4 "Extend hose-reel".• No. 4 returns to the appliance and, assisted by No. 2, removes the branch from

the hose-reel not in use.• Nos 2 and 4 pay out sufficient tubing to form a large bight at the rear of the

appliance.+ No. 2 turns off the valve of the hose-reel in use and disconnects the hose from the

reel-drum.• No. 4 couples the new tubing to the hose-reel in use and then opens the

appropriate hose-reel valve.• No.4 pays-out more tubing from the new drum.

No 1 to No 4"Extend hose reel"

No 1 & 3I'=I

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 37

No4 No2

• No. 4 re-joins No. 1 and 3, straightening the hose on the way back to the branch,the branch is then advanced.

'Knock off' and 'Make Up'

+ No. 1 sends No. 4 with the message "Knock off" and "Make Up".• No. 2 will close the hose-reel valve (where fitted) and disengages the pump.+ No. 2 turns off the hose reel valve and disengages the pump.• No. 4 disconnects the added hose-reel length and re-connects the original reel to

the reel-drum.• No. 2 re-connects the spare hose-reel length and the branch to the unused

hose-reel.• All crew members make up the hose-reels.• When all the gear is made up, No. 1 reports to the Officer in Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• None.

Additional Key Control Measures

+ None.

38 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Standard Practice: P3

Aim: To augment the supply of water from ahydrant with a crew of four

Prior Learning:

All personnel should be have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forstandard practice Hi and P1.

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Augmenting the supply using a hydrant.

'Get to work'

The hose-reel is got to work as detailed in standard practice P1.

+ No. 1 gives the order to No. 4 "Augment supply".• No. 4 ships a standpipe, key and bar.+ No. 2 takes a length of hose, runs it out from the hydrant to the appliance and

connects it to the collecting head. If more than one length of soft suction isrequired, Nos 2 and 4 run out alternate lengths.

+ No. 4 stands by the hydrant.• No. 2 gives the order "Turn on the hydrant" to No. 4.• No. 4 turns on the hydrant and rejoins Nos 1 and 3 at the branch.

No 1 to No 4"Augment Supply"

1*No 4

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 39

'Knock off and make up'

• No. 1 sends No. 4 with the message "Knock off and make up".• No. 2 closes the hose-reel valve (where fitted), orders No. 4 to turn off the hydrant

and disengages the pump.• No. 4 makes up the suction side of the pump.• Nos 1, 2 and 3 make up the hose-reel.• When all the gear is made up, No. 1 reports to the Officer in Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• None.

Additional Key Control Measures

• None.

40 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Standard Practice: P4

Aim: To get two hose-reels to work and augmentthe supply with a crew of five

Prior learning:

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forstandard practice P1 and P3.

Practical Learning Objectives:Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Getting two hose-reels to work.• Operating a pump to supply two hose-reel jets.

'Get to work'

• No. 2 engages the pump.• Nos 1 and 4 each take a hose-reel, open the reel valve where fitted, check that the

hose-reel is charged by a short operation of the hose-reel branch and proceed tolay out the hose.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 41

No4&5

No 5

Nol &3

No 3

• Nos 3 and 5 pull the hose off the respective reels and join Nos 1 and 4, clearingthe hose as they go.

To augment the supply from a hydrant

• No. 1 gives the order to No. 5 "Augment supply".• No. 5 ships a standpipe, hydrant key and bar.• No. 2 takes a length of hose, runs it out from the hydrant to the appliance and

connects it to the collecting head. If more than one length of soft suction isrequired, Nos 2 and 5 run out alternate lengths.

• No. 5 stands by the hydrant.• No. 2 gives the order to No. 5 "Turn on the hydrant".• No. 5 turns on the hydrant and rejoins No. 4 at the branch.

No2 No5

No ito No 5"Augment Supply"

'Knock off and make-up'

• No. 1 sends back No.5 with the message "Knock off and make up".• No. 2 closes the hose-reel valves (where fitted), orders No. 5 to turn off the hydrant

and disengages the pump.• Nos 2 and 5 make up the suction side of the pump.• Nos 1, 3 and 4 make up the hose-reels.+ When all the gear is made up, No. 1 reports to the Officer in Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• None.

Additional Key Control Measures

• None.

42 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

No 4 & 5

No 1 & 3

Standard Practice: P5

Aim: To get a pump to work from a hydrant usingsoft suction with a crew of four (onedelivery)

Prior learning:

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forStandard Practices P3 and Hi.

Practical Learning Objectives:Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Getting one line of hose to work from a pump supplied from a hydrant.

'Get to work'

• No. 2 engages the pump, removes the blank cap and connects the collecting headto the suction inlet (if it is not already connected).

• No. 4 ships a standpipe, hydrant key and bar.• No. 2 takes a length of soft suction, runs it out from the hydrant to the pump and

makes the connection.• If more than one length of soft suction is required, Nos 2 and 4 run out alternate

lengths.• No. 3 takes a length of hose and runs it out from the pump.• No. i takes a branch and a length of hose and runs it out from the first length.• No. 3 connects the first and second lengths of hose.• No. i connects the branch.• No. 4 proceeds along the hose to the branch straightening out any kinks and

ensuring that the hose is clear.

1*No 4

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 43

No 2 orNos 2 & 4

No 3— 1st Length1 — 2nd Length

No 3 & 4

• No. 1 sends No. 4 to No. 2 with the message "Water on", stating the pumppressure required and the position where the branch is at work.

• No. 2 gives the order "Turn on the hydrant" to No. 4.• No. 4 turns on the hydrant and rejoins Nos 1 and 3 at the branch.

'Knock off' or 'Knock off and make up'• No. 1 sends No. 4 with the message "Knock off" or "Knock off and make up".• No. 2 will shut down the delivery.

'Make-up'• No. 2 disengages the pump and orders No. 4 to shut down the hydrant.• Nos 2 and 4 make up the suction side of the pump.• No. 1 returns the branch.• Nos 1 and 3 under-run and make up the delivery hose.• When all the gear is made up, No. 1 reports to the Officer in Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• Injuries from branch out of control.

Additional Key Control Measures

• Close supervision of pump operator.• Crew competent in 'Branch out of control procedure'.

44 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Standard Practice: P6

Aim: To get a pump to work from a hydrant usingsoft suction with a crew of five (twodeliveries)

Prior learning:

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forstandard practice P5.

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Shipping a double-headed standpipe (or improvise using a dividing breeching).• Getting two lines of hose to work from a pump supplied from a hydrant.

'Get to work'

• No. 2 engages the pump.• No. 5 takes a double-outlet standpipe, hydrant key and bar to the hydrant and

ships the standpipe, key and bar.• No. 2 removes the blank cap and connects the collecting head to the suction inlet

(if not already fitted).• Nos 4 and 5 each provide, and run out, one length of soft suction from the hydrant

to the pump. If more than one length of soft suction is required in each line, Nos. 1and 3 will run out one line and Nos4 and 5 the other.

• No. 3 takes a length of hose and runs it out from No. 1 delivery.• No. 1 takes a branch and a second length of hose and runs it out from the first

length (No. 1 delivery).• No. 3 connects the first and second lengths together and No. 1 connects the

branch.• No. 5 takes a length of hose and runs it out from No. 2 delivery.• No. 4 takes a branch and a second length of hose and runs it out from the first

length (No. 2 delivery).• No. 5 connects the first and second lengths together and No. 4 connects the

branch.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 45

• As soon as Nos 1 and 4 are ready they send Nos 3 and 5 respectively with themessage "Water on" stating the number of the delivery, the pump pressurerequired and the positions where the branches are at work.

+ No. 2 gives the order to Nos 3 or 5 "Turn on the hydrant".• Nos 3 and 5 then proceed along the hose to their respective branches

straightening out any kinks and ensuring the hose is clear.

No 4 to 5 "Water On"

No 4 & 5

No 1 & 3

No 5— 1st Length

'Knock off' or 'Knock off and make up'

• No. 1 sends No. 3 (and/or No. 4 sends back No. 5) with the message "Knock off"for the respective deliveries.

• No. 2 shuts down the appropriate deliveries.

46 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Length I Branch

No 5 orNos 4 & 5

No 4 orNos 1 + 3

No 5

No 1 to 3"Water on"/

No 1 — 2nd No 3 — 1st LengthLength I Branch

'Make-up

• No. 2 disengages the pump and orders No. 5 to shut down the hydrant.• Nos 2 and 5 make up the suction side of the pump.• Nos 1 and 4 return the branches.+ Nos 1, 3 and 4 make up the delivery hose.• When all the gear is made up, No. 1 reports to the Officer in Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• None.

Additional Key Control Measures

• None.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 47

48 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Standard Practice: P7

Aim: To get a pump to work from a mains supplywith a low flow rate using soft suction fromtwo hydrants (two deliveries) with a crew offive

Prior learning:

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forstandard practice P6.

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Getting a pump to work from two separate hydrant supplies.

'Get to work'

• No. 2 engages the pump, removes the blank cap, connecting the collecting headto the suction inlet (if not already fitted).

• Nos 4 and 5 take a standpipe, hydrant key and bar, and hose to the first hydrant.• No. 5 ships the first stand pipe, key and bar.• Nos 4 and 5 run out the hose from the hydrant to the pump.• No. 2 connects the hose to the collecting head.• No. 3 takes a length of hose and runs it out from No. 1 delivery.+ No. 1 takes a branch and a second length of hose and runs it out from the first

length.• No. 3 connects the first and second lengths together and No. 1 connects the

branch.• Nos 4 and 5 then provide a second standpipe, key and bar, and hose and get to

work from the second hydrant.• No. 5 takes a length of hose and runs it out from No. 2 delivery.• No. 4 takes a branch and a second length of hose and runs it out from the first

length.• No. 5 connects the first and second lengths together and No. 4 connects the

branch.• As soon as Nos 1 and 4 are ready they send Nos 3 and 5 respectively with the

message "Water on" stating the number of the delivery, the pump pressurerequired and the positions where the branches are at work.

+ No. 2 gives the order "Turn on the hydrant" to Nos 3 and 5 and controls the speedof the pump to avoid over-running the supply which would otherwise result in theflattening of the soft suction and inefficient jets.

• Nos 3 and 5 return to the branches straightening out any kinks and ensuring thehose is clear.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 49

No 4 to 5"Water On"

No4&5

No 1 & 3

No 4—2nd No 5—1st Length

No 4 & 5

'Knock off' or 'Knock off and make up'

• No. 1 sends No. 3 (and/or No. 4 sends back No. 5) with the message "Knock offNo. 1 and/or No. 2 delivery".

• No. 2 shuts down the appropriate deliveries.

'Make-up'

+ No. 2 disengages the pump and orders Nos 3 and 5 to shut down the hydrants.• Nos 2, 3 and 5 make up the suction side of the pump.• Nos 1 and 4 return the branches.+ All crew members make up the delivery hose.• When all the gear is made up, No. 1 reports to the Officer in Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• None.

Additional Key Control Measures

• None.

50 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

No1 to3"Water On"

Standard Practice: P8

Aim: To get a pump to work from open waterwith a crew of four (one delivery)

Prior learning:

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forstandard practice P3, the use of knots and lines, and notes on operation and use ofpumps (section 4.3).

Practical Learning Objectives:Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Connecting lengths of hard suction hose together.• Connecting a line of hard suction to the pump.• Connecting the suction strainer to the line of hard suction.• Attaching a basket strainer to a line of hard suction.• Securing the hard suction and strainer using lines.• Submerging a line of hard suction.• Operating a pump from open water.

'Get to work'

• No. 2 engages the pump.

• With two lengths of suctionNo. 2 provides two wrenches and removes the blank cap or collecting head.

> Nos 1 and 3 take the first length of suction and connect it to the pump.Nos 2 and 4 take the second length of suction, with strainer, and connect itto the first length and tighten all joints.

• With three lengths of suctionNo. 2 provides two wrenches and removes the blank cap or collecting head.Nos 2 and 4 take the first length of suction and connect it to the pump.Nos 1 and 3 take the second length of suction and connect it to the first.

c) Nos 2 and 4 take the third length of suction with strainer, connect it to thesecond length and tighten all joints.

• No. 3 takes the first length of hose and runs it out from the pump.• No. 1 takes the second length of hose and a branch and runs it out from the first

length.• No. 3 connects the first and second lengths of hose and then joins No. 1 at the

branch.• No. 1 connects the branch.• No. 4 takes a line and secures the suction and strainer and, assisted by No. 2,

places the suction into the water supply.• No. 4 then proceeds along the line of hose to the branch straightening out any

kinks and ensuring that the hose is clear.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 51

No 1 & 3

52 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

EyeLeverArm

Shank

UniversalSuction Wrench

No 2 & 42nd Length& Strainer

No 1 to 4"Water on"

No 1 & 31st Length

No 1 — 2nd Length No 3— 1St Length& Branch

• When No. 4 arrives at the branch, No. 1 sends No. 4 to No. 2 with the message"Water on" stating the number of the delivery, the pump pressure required and theposition where the branch is at work.

+ After giving the message to No. 2, No. 4 returns to the branch.

'Knock off' or 'Knock Off and Make-up'

• No. 1 sends No. 4 to No. 2 with the message "Knock off" or "Knock off andmake-up".

• No. 2 closes down the delivery.

'Make-up'

• No. 2 disengages the pump.• No. 4 assists No. 2 to make up the suction side of the pump.• No. 1 returns the branch and assisted by No. 3, makes up all hose.• When all the gear is made up, No. 1 reports to the Officer in Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• Falling into water and possibility of drowning.• Chemical or biological infected water.

Additional Key Control Measures

Risk assess the hazard and if necessary:

+ Wear life-jackets.+ Secure individuals by line.• Only stretches of water known not to be polluted are to be used for training.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 53

54 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Standard Practice: P9

Aim: To get a pump to work from open waterwith a crew of five (two deliveries)

Prior learning:

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forstandard practice P6 and P8

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Operating a pump fed from open water delivering two jets.

'Get to work'

• No. 2 engages the pump.

• With two lengths of suctionNo. 2 provides two wrenches and removes the blank cap or collecting head.Nos 1 and 3 take the first length of suction and connect it to the pump.Nos 4 and 5 take the second length of suction, with strainer, and connect itto the first length and tighten all joints.

+ With three lengths of suctionNo. 2 provides two wrenches and removes the blank cap or collecting head.Nos 4 and 5 take the first length of suction and connect it to the pump.Nos 1 and 3 take the second length of suction and connect it to the firstlength.Nos 4 and 5 take the third length of suction with strainer connect it to thesecond length and tighten all joints.

• No. 2 takes a line and assisted by Nos 4 and 5 secures the suction and strainerand places the suction into the water supply.

• The delivery hose is laid as in standard practice P6.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 55

No 1 & 3

No 4 to 5-"Water On"

'Knock off' or 'Knock off and Make-up'

No 5Line

• No. 1 sends back No. 3 (and/or No. 4 sends back No. 5) with the message"Knock off and make up".

• No. 2 shuts down the appropriate deliveries.

'Make-up'• No. 2 disengages the pump.• Nos 2 and 5 make up the suction side of the pump.• Nos 1 and 4 disconnect and return branches.• Nos 1, 3 and 4 make up delivery hose.• When all the gear is made up, No. 1 reports to the Officer in Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• As per P8.

Additional Key Control Measures

• As per P8.

56 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

No 5—1st Length

No 1 + 32nd Length& Strainer

I No4+5/ 1st Length

. No 1 to 3"Water on"

Standard Practice: ploAim: To get a ground monitor to work with a

crew of fivePrior learning:

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forStandard Practices P6 or P9.

Practical Learning Objectives:Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Carrying and siting a ground monitor.• Connecting hose lines to a ground monitor.• Operating a ground monitor.

'Get to work'

• The crew get to work and lay out the suction side of the pump as detailed instandard practice P9 or, in the case of working from a hydrant(s), using softsuction as detailed in standard practice P6.

+ Nos 1 and 3 take a ground monitor and a collecting breeching to an appropriateposition.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 57

Mk

No 31st Length

• No. 3 connects the collecting breeching to the monitor.• Nos 1 and 3 working from No. 1 delivery and Nos 4 and 5 working from No. 2

delivery lay out the necessary number of lengths of hose and connect them to thebreeching.

• The twin lines should be parallel and directly in line with the monitor for at least 3mbefore converging into the collecting breeching.

• When all connections are made No. 1 sends No. 5 with the message "Water on".• Nos 3 and 4 assist No. 1 as necessary.• No. 5 returns to the monitor.

'Knock off' or 'Knock off and Make-up'

• No. 1 sends No. 5 with the message "Knock off" or "Knock off and Make-up".• No. 2 shuts down the deliveries.

'Make-up'• No. 2 disengages the pump.+ Nos 2 and 5 make up the suction side of the pump.• Nos 1 and 3 disconnect and return the ground monitor and collecting breeching.• Nos 1, 3 and 4 make up all delivery hose.• When all the gear is made up, No. 1 reports to the Officer in Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• Instability of the ground monitor.

Additional Key Control Measures

+ Careful positioning of the monitor and connected delivery hose.

58 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Standard Practice: P11

Aim: To get a portable pump to work from openwater with a crew of five (two deliveries)

Prior learning:

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forStandard Practices P6 or P9.

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Removing a portable pump from the appliance.• Carrying a portable pump.• Siting a portable pump.• Operating a portable pump delivering multiple jets.'Get to work'• The crew remove the portable pump from the appliance and carry it to its working

position.• No. 5 provides suction wrenches, suction strainer and line and places them at the

working position.• The pump is then got to work and hose run out as detailed in standard practice

Pg. If only one length of hose is required from each delivery Nos 3 and 5 run themout. If more than two lengths are required, Nos 3 and 1 run out alternate lengthsfrom No. 1 delivery and Nos 5 and 4 run out alternate lengths from No. 2 delivery.

• Nos 1 and 4 send Nos 3 and 5 respectively with the message "Water on, No. 1(and/or No. 2) delivery", stating the pressure required and the positions where thebranches are at work.

• Nos 3 and 5 return to their respective branches, at the same time straightening outany kinks and ensuring that the hose is clear.

'Knock off' or 'Knock off and Make-up'• No. 1 sends back No. 3 (and/or No. 4 sends back No. 5) with the message "Knock

off or Knock Off and Make Up No. 1 delivery (and/or No. 2 delivery)".• No. 2 shuts down the appropriate deliveries.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 59

'Make-up'• Nos 2 and 5 make up the suction side of the pump.• Nos 1 and 4 disconnect and return branches.• Nos 1, 3 and 4 make up all hose.• The crew replace the portable pump on the appliance.• When all gear is made up, No. 1 reports to the Officer in Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

+ As per P8.

Additional Key Control Measures

• As per P8.

60 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

No 1 to No 3"Water On"

ANo 5

4.4 Ladder Standard PracticesPurpose:

The ladder Standard Practices detailed within this section provide systems of work,which will enable crews to work effectively, and safely with Fire and Rescue Serviceladders.

As with all Standard Practices they are learning activities which should be conducted ata pace, and practised at a frequency, to suit the level of performance of the individualand/or the crew as they endeavour to acquire or maintain the skills that lead tocompetence.

Generic Risk Assessment: Working With Ladders

I SCOPE

The assessment detailed below summarises the findings of the common significanthazards, risks and control measures relating to the use of ladders and should be appliedto the Standard Practices contained within this section.

Additional significant hazards and risks particular to each standard practice areindicated in the specific section on that standard practice.

Fire and Rescue Services will need to review the findings of both the common andadditional risk assessments within the context of local conditions and circumstancesand implement appropriate control measures.

All personnel who take part in these Standard Practices should be aware of the commonand additional hazards associated with each of the standard practices.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 61

2 SIGNIFICANT HAZARDS AND RISKS

Hazard/Risk

Falling froma height

Control Measures

• ladder is always correctly 'footed' when in use, either by:One person - placing one foot on the lowest round,placing the opposite foot well back, grasping bothstrings and pressing on the ladder (Figure 4.5.1).Two persons - each person placing their inner foot onthe lowest round (9m or 1 O.5m ladder), outer foot (1 3.5mladder), bracing the opposite foot well back, grasping astring with the inner hand and pressing on the ladder(Figure 4.5.2 and 4.5.3).

• ladder is pitched to a safe working angle when in use,i.e. heel placed at 1/3rd. working height from the structure.

62 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

ll[

Figure 4.5.1 Figure 4.5.2

• ladder climbed correctly, i.e.:mounted — by stepping onto the bottom round with bothfeet, grasping convenient round at shoulder height witharms straight and hands positioned with thumbs onunderside of round;

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 63

Figure 4.5.3

Figure 4.5.4

64

climbed — by moving respective hands and feet inunison, left hand with left foot, and right hand with rightfoot;

Figure 4.5.5

Figure 4.5.6

stepped off from head — by climbing to the round abovethe sill and stepping down with the foot nearest thewindow opening, whilst maintaining a firm grip on around at the head of the ladder;

Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

II

c> stepped onto the head — by grasping convenient roundon rear underside, placing opposite hand on frontupperside of same round whilst placing outside foot onround above sill and then transferring rear hand to frontand inside foot to ladder;

descended — by co-ordinating hand and feet movementsas in climbing and by use of the commands 'pawls' and'step in';stepped off from heel — by use of the commands 'lastround' and 'step back'.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 65

Figure 4.5.7 Figure 4.5.8

Figure 4.5.10

• use of leg lock at all times when working on a ladder, i.e.:" by standing with both feet on the same round whilst

holding a round at chest height with both hands, passingone leg between two convenient rounds and bending theknee enabling the foot to pass back through a lowerconvenient round.

66 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Figure 4.5.11 Figure 4.5.12

Figure 4.5.14

Injuries to • Extension ladders must always be held in such a mannerhands/arms that fingers will not be trapped by the extending sections.when extending Fingers should be kept outside the strings, away froma ladder mounting guide brackets. Where handles are fitted they

should be used.• Extension ladders fitted with manual pawls must be tripped

by placing the arm around the string and not between therounds.

• Consideration should be given to placing small signs onladder with information/advice on the potential ofentrapment injury.

Extending a • Before an extension ladder is extended it should be stable.ladder

Ladder stability + Before an extension ladder is extended it should be stablewith the heel of each string or the jack pads steady on theground.

+ The head of the ladder may require to be secured e.g.adverse weather conditions.

Losing balance + Securing personnel by the use of fall-arrestwhen traversing equipment.a bridged ladder

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 67

Note: The following points apply to all ladder standard practices:

+ Carrying a ladderCrew of three - 9m or 1O.5m ladder

Nos 1 and 2 grasp the round (back of the hand to the centre of the ladder) atthe head. No. 3 grasps the base of the strings at the heel of the ladder withboth hands. The ladder is carried with the rounds horizontal (Figure 4.5.15).and the pace of progress controlled relative to the conditions underfoot.

68 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Figure 4.5.15

Crew of two — 9m or 1O.5m ladderNo. 1 at the head and No. 2 at the heel, the ladder should be carried by theupper string with the rounds vertical.

Crew of four — 9m or 1O.5m ladderNos 1 and 2 grasp the round (back of the hand to the centre of the ladder) atthe head. Nos 3 and 4 grasp the round (back of the hand to the centre of theladder) at the heel. The ladder is carried with the rounds horizontal.

Crew of four — 13.5m ladderNos 1 and 2 lift the head of the ladder by grasping the top round or handles,where fitted and Nos 3 and 4 lift the heel of the ladder by grasping the jackbeam, or handles, where fitted.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 69

C .

Figure 4.5.16

Figure 4.5.17 Figure 4.5.18

• A ladder should, as far as circumstances permit, be pitched to the right hand sideof a window or other opening with, where possible, three rounds above the sill.

• When a ladder is pitched and extended, the pawls must be properly engaged withthe rounds in line and the heel correctly footed before any attempt is made toclimb or descend.

• When moving from one ladder to another, either ascending or descending, thenearest foot must always be placed on the ladder first, then the nearest hand,followed by the other hand and the other foot.

• When an extension ladder is being extended the line must be pulled in as nearly avertical position as possible, with the hands as close to the ladder as the roundspermit.

• When an extension ladder is being extended any tendency of the pull on theextending line to cause the ladder to tilt should be resisted. A ladder shouldalways be slightly inclined towards the building while it is being extended andshould never be allowed to lean away from the building.

• When the extension ladder is being housed the extending line must be paid outhand over hand, and must not be allowed to slide through the palms of the hand.

• When an extension ladder is housed the pawis should rest on the bottom orsecond round as appropriate.

• Footing a ladderThe term footing a ladder' should only be used to describe the process ofstabilising a ladder when the ladder has been pawled.

Footing a ladder ensures that maximum force can be exerted to stabilisethe ladder when it is footed by one or two persons.

When footing 1 O.5m or similar ladders, by two firefighters, each firefighter should placethe inner foot on the lowest round with the outer foot on the ground well back from theladder. At the same time they should grasp the inside of the string with the inner arm(Figure 4.5.2).

When footing 1O.5m, 13.5m and similar ladders, by one firefighter, one foot should beplaced in the centre of the lowest round or jack beam with the other foot on the groundwell back from the ladder. At the same time the firefighter should grasp both strings fromthe outside of the ladder (Figure 4.5.1).

When footing 1 3.5m or similar ladders, by two firefighters, each firefighter should placethe outer foot on the jack beam, outside of the strings, with the inner foot on the groundwell back from the ladder. At the same time they should grasp the outside of the stringwith the outer arm (Figure 4.5.3).

70 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

• Bracing a ladder

The term "bracing a ladder" should only be used to describe a process of stabilising aladder during the time that the ladder is being pawled or pitched.

When bracing a 1O.5m or similar ladder place the hand nearest to the building at aboutshoulder height applying a flat, gloved hand to the underside of the string of the ladder,with the load on the palm of the hand and the arm locked in a position where the majormuscles of the chest and arm are employed as fixators to stabilise the load. Place thehand furthest away from the building at about waist height and grasp the outside of thestring.

Place the foot furthest away from the building against the heel, with the boot and lowerleg up to the knee being used to brace the ladder. Place the foot nearest the buildingback to form a stable, but comfortable position with the knee flexed to take the majorityof the load on the leg and not on the back.

Ensure the load is as close to the body as possible and remain under the centre ofgravity as much as possible.

Ensure emphasis is placed on number 3 (prime mover) providing the majority of thepower to facilitate head in and out. Numbers 1 and 2 are positioned to respond to anyundue forces that may be applied to the head of the ladder.

When the 1 3.5m ladder is being extended or housed the ladder should be braced usingthe straddle method with the feet resting on the jack beam outside the strings of themain ladder and the arms outside of the strings (Figure 4.5.20).

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 71

Figure 4.5.19 Figure 4.5.20

• Plumbing should be carried out after the ladder has been under-run and before it isextended. Final adjustments may be made after the ladder has been extended andthe head is resting on the building.

• When the 13.5m ladder is pitched and ready for work the jacks should be in sucha position that the full weight of the ladder is on the jacks.

• After each ascent or descent the position of the props on the 13.5m ladder shouldbe checked to ensure that the ladder remains stable.

• Carrying Equipment Aloft

Firefighters required to carry equipment aloft should refrain from using techniqueswhich compromises the individuals safety whilst ascending or descending theladder. Both hands should always be free to grasp the ladder rounds whenascending or descending ladders.The following methods should be used:-

Use of a carry holdallHaul equipment aloft by line.

• Bridging laddersThere should be not less than 650mm of ladder on each side of the gap beingbridged.

Care should be taken to avoid undue oscillation when moving across bridgedladders.

Bridging of ladders should be confined to the use of 9m and 10.5m ladders only.

• Roof laddersAn extension ladder should be pitched to a point slightly to one side of theposition where the roof ladder is to be used. It should be extended at least threeand preferably five rounds above the eaves and extra care should be taken ifresting on plastic guttering.

The roof ladder should be under-run, hook uppermost, and positioned adjacent tothe strings of the extension ladder on the side that is to be used with the hookpointing towards the opposite string. A firefighter should mount the extensionladder and ascend until able to place one arm between two appropriate roundsnear the head of the roof ladder with the round resting firmly on the shoulder andthe ladder comfortably counterbalanced.

The firefighter should then continue to ascend to a suitable point just below theeaves where a leg-lock can be taken with the leg opposite to the side where theroof ladder is being carried (Figure 4.5.21).

72 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

The roof ladder should be transferred from the shoulder and, grasping both stringsthe wheels rested on the roof. The grip should then be transferred to the roundsand the ladder manoeuvred towards the ridge at an angle of approximately 10degrees away from the extension ladder (Figure 4.5.22). Once the hook haspassed beyond the ridge the roof ladder should be turned over, towards theextension ladder, and adjusted to ensure that the hook is resting firmly on theopposite side of the roof.

When transferring to, or from, the roof ladder the sequence of movementsmust be foot, hand, hand, foot. The nearest foot/hand being transferred first(Figure 4.5.23).

When making up the roof ladder the reverse procedure must be adopted, one crewmember receiving the roof ladder when the firefighter on the extensionladder approaches the ground. The roof ladder should be under-run and carriedclear of operations.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 73

Li

Li

Figure 4.5.21 Figure 4.5.22

74 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

offl U

Figure 4.5.23

Standard Practice: PSPL

Aim: Preliminary Standard Practice: Use ofLadder Beam Gantry System with a crewof four

Prior Learning:

Crews should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding for PSP1 andLadder Standard Practices (Section 4.4)

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Using appropriate words of command.• Operating the beam gantry mechanism used to secure the ladder to the appliance.• Slipping the ladder from the appliance.• Stowing and securing the ladder on the appliance.

'Get to work'

Removal of 9m Extension Ladder

• No. 1 gives the order "Stand by to slip".• No. 2 fits the T-handle and releases the beam gantry securing mechanism and

eases the gantry away from the appliance (Figures PSPL1 and PSPL2).• When the gantry reaches its limit, No. 2 stabilises the gantry by securing the

T-handle under the gantry. (Some gantry systems are self stabilising and do notrequire the use of the T-handle.) (Figure PSPL3)

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 75

Figure PSPL 1 Figure PSPL2

+ Nos 3 and 4 release the ladder securing device.

• No 2 steadies the gantry (Figure SP5).• No. 1 gives the order "Slip".• Nos 3 and 4 ease back the ladder to the limit of the gantry.• As the head approaches the limit of the gantry, No. 1 gives the order "Well"

(Figure PSPL5).

+ No. 1 then gives the order "Release the head".• Nos 1 and 2 release the head and, assisted by Nos 3 and 4 at the heel, lift the

ladder clear of the gantry (Figures PSPL6 and PSPL7).

76 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Figure PSPL4. Close up photograph of theFigure PSPL3 ladder securing device.

Figure PSPL5 Figure PSPL6

Figure PSPL7

Re-stowing of the 9m Extension Ladder

4 The procedure for re-stowing the ladder is the reverse of the procedure undertakenfor its removal.

Removal of 13.5 m Extension Ladder

Figure PSPL8 Step 1:Release the secondary latch with one hand and operatethe main latch with the other. operating the main latch, pull the beam back.

• No. 1 gives the order "Stand by to slip".• No. 2 releases the beam gantry securing mechanism and, assisted by Nos 3

and 4, eases the gantry back to its full extent. (Figure PSPL1 0)

• As the ladder is allowed to reach its maximum tilt position, No. 2 steadies thebeam gantry from underneath using the handle grips. (Figure PSPL1 1)

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 77

Figure PSPL9 Step 2:Using both hands, with at least one still

Figure PSPL 10 Figure PSPL 11

• No. 1 gives the order "Slip".• Nos 3 and 4 ease back the ladder to the limit of the gantry.• As the head approaches the limit of the gantry, No. 1 gives the order "Well".

• No. 1 then gives the order "Release the head".• Nos 1 and 2 release the head and, assisted by Nos 3 and 4 at the heel, lift the

ladder clear of the gantry.

78 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Figure PSPL12

Figure PSPL 13

Figure PSPL14

Re-stowing of the 13.5m Extension Ladder

• Nos 1 and 2 place the head of the ladder into the gantry securing device.• No. 2 steadies the beam gantry from underneath using the handle grips.• Nos 1, 3 and 4 launch the ladder onto the gantry.• No. 1 will ensure the ladder is sited correctly in a central position and located on

the rollers.• Nos 3 and 4 will secure the ladder to the gantry and re-stow onto the appliance.• No. 2 will secure the gantry securing mechanism.• The crew check the ladder for security.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• Manual handling risk when working on incline.

Additional Key Control Measures

• When working on an incline and releasing the gantry, consideration to be given tomaking the task a two person operation.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 79

Figure PSPL15

Figure PSPL 16 Figure PSPL 17

80 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Standard Practice: Li

Aim: To Slip and Pitch a 9m and 1O.5m ladderwith a crew of four

Prior Learning:

Crews should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding for PSP1, PSPL1if applicable, and notes on ladder standard practices (Section 4.4).

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Using appropriate words of command.• Operating the mechanism used to secure the ladder to the appliance.• Slipping the ladder from the appliance.• Carrying and positioning the ladder.• Under-running the ladder.• Bracing and footing the ladder.• Extending the ladder.• Pawling the ladder.+ Resting the head of the ladder.+ Making-up the ladder.• Stowing and securing the ladder on the appliance.

'Get to work'

• No. 1 gives the order "Stand by to slip".• No. 1 or No. 2 release the ladder securing device.• No. 1 gives the order "Slip".• Nos 3 and 4 take the heel of the ladder and, assisted by Nos 1 and 2, ease it

backwards until the head is within a distance of about two rounds from the gantry.• Nos 1 and 2 lift the ladder clear of the appliance.• The ladder is carried to the building.• With the correct side of the ladder uppermost, the heel is placed at right angles to

and one third of the working height away from the base of the building.• To stabilise the heel of the ladder, No. 3 and No. 4 each place their inside foot on

the bottom round and grasp a convenient round with their inside hands.• No. 1 gives the order "Under-run".• Nos 1 and 2 raise the ladder to the vertical position.• No. 4 moves to the front of the ladder and helps support it, Nos 1 and 2 brace the

ladder.• No. 1 gives the order "Extend".• No. 3 extends the ladder.• When the ladder is at the required height No. 1 gives the order "Well" followed by

"Lower".• No. 3 Slightly lowers the extension to engage the pawls, ensuring they are fully

engaged before releasing the load on the extending line.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 81

• The head of the ladder is then carefully placed into the window or against thebuilding and the heel adjusted to ensure stability and a safe working angle.

• No. 1 gives the order "Head in".

Figure L1.1

82 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

1

4 2

4

'Make up'

• Nos 1, 2, 3 and 4 take up their previous positions at the heel of the ladder.• No. 1 gives the order "Head out".• The ladder braced by Nos 1 and 2 and supported by No. 4 is raised to the vertical

position.• No. 1 gives the order "Extend to lower".• No. 3 raises the extension slightly to trip the pawls.• No. 1 gives the order "Well" followed by "Lower".• No. 3 houses the extension and engages the pawls at the bottom or second

round, ensuring they are fully engaged.• Nos 3 and 4 each place their inside foot on the bottom round to stabilise the

ladder, grasp a convenient round with their inside hands and lean back.• No. 1 gives the order "Under-run".• Nos 1 and 2 lower the head of the ladder by under-running.• The crew then carry the ladder to the rear of the appliance.• Nos 1 and 2 lift the head of the ladder onto the gantry and house it assisted by

Nos 3 and 4.• No. 1 or No. 2 secures the ladder and the crew check it.• When the ladder is re-stowed, No. 1 reports to the Officer in Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• Manual handling risk may occur when the ladder is at or near the horizontalposition during raising and lowering.

Additional Key Control Measures

• The under-running of the ladder must be particularly closely supervised.• The raising and lowering of the ladder must be well co-ordinated between Nos 1

and 2 and Nos 3 and 4.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 83

84 Fire and Rescue Service Manual Foundation Training and Development

Standard Practice: L2

Aim: To Slip and Pitch a 9m and 1O.5m ladderwith a crew of three

Prior Learning:

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding for Li.

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate with a crew of three the correct method of:

• Under-running the ladder.• Bracing and footing the ladder.• Extending the ladder.• Pawling the ladder.• Making-up the ladder.

'Get to work'

• No. 1 gives the order "Stand by to slip".• No. 1 or No. 2 releases the ladder securing device.• No. 1 gives the order "Slip".• No. 3 takes the heel of the ladder and, assisted by Nosi and 2, eases it

backwards until the head is within a distance of about two rounds from the gantry.• Nos 1 and 2 lift the ladder clear of the appliance.• The ladder is carried to the building.• With the correct side of the ladder uppermost, the heel is placed at right angles to

and one third of the working height away from the base of the building.• To stabilise the heel of the ladder, No. 3 places both feet on the bottom round and

grasps a convenient round.• No. 1 gives the order "Under-run".• Nos 1 and 2 raise the ladder to the vertical position.• Nos 1 and 2 brace the ladder.• No. 1 gives the order "Extend".• No. 3 extends the ladder.• When the ladder is at the required height No. 1 gives the order "Well" followed by

"Lower".• No. 3 slightly lowers the extension to engage the pawis, ensuring they are fully

engaged before releasing the load on the extending line.• No. 1 gives the order "Head in".• The head of the ladder is then carefully placed into the window or against the

building and the heel adjusted to ensure stability and a safe working angle.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 85

'Make up'

Figure L2. 1

+ Nos 1, 2, and 3 take up their previous positions at the heel of the ladder.+ No. 1 gives the order "Head out".

86 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

2

32

• The ladder is braced by Nos 1 and 2 and, supported by No. 3, is raised to thevertical position.

• No. 1 gives the order "Extend to lower".• No. 3 raises the extension slightly to trip the pawls.• No. 1 gives the order "Well" followed by "Lower".• No. 3 houses the extension and engages the pawls at the bottom or second

round, ensuring they are fully engaged.+ No. 3 places both feet on the bottom round, grasps a convenient round and leans

back.• No. 1 gives the order "Under-run".• Nos 1 and 2 lower the head of the ladder by under-running.• The crew then carry the ladder to the rear of the appliance.• Nos 1 and 2 lift the head of the ladder onto the gantry and house it assisted by

No. 3.• No. 1 or No. 2 secures the ladder and the crew check it for security.• When the ladder is re-stowed, No. 1 reports to the Officer in Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks:

• Manual handling risk may occur when the ladder is at or near the horizontalposition during raising and lowering.

Additional Key Control Measures:

• No. 3 should not pull on the ladder whilst it is being under-run.+ This part of the standard practice must be particularly closely supervised.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 87

88 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Standard Practice: L3

Aim: To Slip and Pitch a 13.5m ladder with a crewof four

Prior learning

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forstandard practice Li and PSPL (if applicable).

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Operating the mechanism used to secure the ladder to the appliance.• Slipping the ladder from the appliance.• Carrying and positioning the ladder.• Under-running the ladder using props.• Bracing and footing the ladder.• Siting the props on the ground.• Plumbing the ladder.• Extending the ladder.• Operating the pawls.• Using the props to place the head into the building.

'Get to Work'

• No. 1 gives the order "Standby to slip".• No. 1 or No. 2 releases the ladder securing device.• No. 1 gives the order "Slip".+ Nos 3 and 4 grip the heel of the ladder and ease it backwards until the head is

within approximately two rounds of the gantry.• Nos 1 and 2 lift the ladder clear of the appliance.• The crew carry the ladder to the building.• With the correct side of the ladder uppermost, the heel is placed at right angles to

and one third of the working height away from the base of the building.• Nos 3 and 4 release the props from the clips, stabilise the heel with their inside

foot on the jack beam outside the strings and hold the props on the outer side oftheir body.

• Nos 3 and 4 lean back on the props.• No. 1 gives the order "Under-run".• No. 1 and 2 raise the ladder to the vertical position.• As the ladder reaches the vertical Nos 1 and 2 take over the stability of the ladder

from Nos 3 and 4 with their outside foot on the jack beam.• Nos 3 and 4 place the props on the ground in line with the strings between the

ladder and the building.• No. 1 determines if the ladder requires plumbing.• If necessary, No. 1 gives the order "Plumb head left" or "Plumb head right" as

appropriate.• No. 2 plumbs the ladder by adjusting the appropriate jack.• When the ladder is plumb, No. 1 gives the order "Well".

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 89

+ No. 1 takes over the bracing of the ladder by straddling, with both feet outside thestrings on the jack beam and firmly holding the strings.

• If necessary No. 2 releases the extension securing device.• No. 1 gives the order "Extend".• No. 2 joins No. 4 at the rear of the ladder.• Nos 2 and 4 extend the ladder.• When the ladder is at the required height Nol gives the order "Well" followed by

"Lower".• Nos 2 and 4 slightly lower the extension to engage the pawls, ensuring they are

fully engaged before releasing the load on the extending line..• No. 2 joins No. 1 at the face of the ladder whilst No. 4 takes position on the prop.• No. 1 gives the order "Head in".• Nos 1 and 2 stabilise the heel of the ladder each with their outside foot on the

jackbeam.• Nos 3 and 4 lift on the props and assisted by Nos 1 and 2 at the heel of the ladder

lower the head into the window or against the building.• Nos 3 and 4 place the props on the ground in the best position to support the

ladder.• No. 1 checks the stability and plumbing and directs any adjustment as necessary.• No. 3 steadies both props.

Figure L3. 1

90 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

4 1

1

4

'Make up'

• Nos 1 and 2 stabilise the heel of the ladder as in the "Get to work".• No. 1 gives the order "Head out".• Nos 3 and 4 lift upwards with the props to clear the head of the ladder from the

building.• Nos 3 and 4 rest the props on the ground as in the "Get to work".• No. 1 braces the ladder and gives the order "Extend to lower".• No. 2 moves to the rear of the ladder and raises the extension slightly to clear both

sets of pawls.• No. 1 gives the order "Well" followed by "Lower".• No. 2 houses the extension and engages the pawls at the bottom round, ensuring

they are fully engaged.• No. 1 directs the centralisation of the plumbing as necessary.+ No. 2 fastens the extension securing device.+ Nos 1 and 2 then take up their previous positions at the heel.• Nos 3 and 4 keeping the props on the outside of their bodies push the props to

raise the ladder to the vertical position.• Keeping the ladder in the vertical position, Nos 3 and 4 each using their inside foot

take over the stabilisation of the ladder from Nos 1 and 2 as in the "Get to work".• No. 1 gives the order "Under-run".• Nos 1 and 2 lower the head of the ladder by under-running assisted by Nos 3 and

4 who lean back on the props.• Nos 3 and 4 replace the props in the clips when the ladder is on the ground.• The crew then carry the ladder to the rear of the appliance.• Nos 1 and 2 lift the head of the ladder onto the gantry and house it assisted by

Nos 3 and 4.• No. 1 or No. 2 secures the ladder and the crew check it for security.• When the ladder is restowed, No. 1 reports to the Officer in Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• There is a risk of losing control of the ladder when stabilisation of the ladder istransferred between Nos 1 and 2, and Nos 3 and 4.

• On the "make up", there is a risk of losing control of the ladder when Nos 3 and 4have pushed to the vertical position and are moving towards the heel of the ladder.

• There is a risk of uncontrolled descent of the extensions if both sets of pawls arenot operated properly.

Additional Key Control Measures

+ The crew must be informed of the risks.• The crew must be able to demonstrate both theoretical and practical

understanding of the pawling mechanism.• Stabilisation of the ladder must be well co-ordinated between Nos 1 and 2, and

Nos 3 and 4.• These parts of the standard practice must be particularly closely supervised.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 91

92 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Standard Practice: L4

Aim: To Slip and Pitch a 13.5m ladder over anobstruction with a crew of five

Prior Learning

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forstandard practice L3.

Practical Learning Outcomes:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Using the props on the face side of the ladder during pitching and make-up.• Using the appropriate words of command.

'Get to Work'

• Nos 1, 2, 3 and 4 slip the ladder and position it on the ground as in standardpractice L3.

• No. 5 attaches a line to the centre of the top round of the top extension using around turn and two half hitches and ensures the line is clear of the ladder.

• Nos 1, 2, 3, and 4 raise the ladder to the vertical as in standard practice L3.• When the ladder is in a vertical position Nos 3 and 4 will be controlling the head

with Nos 1 and 2 bracing the ladder.• No. 1 gives the order "No. 3 to the face of the ladder". No. 3 takes up a new

position in line with the strings and at right angles to the rounds on the right sideof the ladder (facing the building).

• With No. 3 in the new position and controlling the head of the ladder, No. 1 givesthe order "No. 4 to the face of the ladder". No. 4 takes up a position in line withNo. 3 but on the left side of the ladder.

+ With Nos 3 and 4 controlling the head of the ladder, No. 1 takes over the bracingof the ladder by straddling, with both feet outside of the strings on the jack beamand firmly holding the strings.

• If necessary No. 2 releases the extension securing device.• If it is necessary to plumb the ladder No. 1 will give the order "Plumb head right"

or "Plumb head left" to No. 2 who will operate the appropriate jack, No. 1 givingthe order 'Well' when the ladder is plumb.

• No. 1 gives the order "Prepare to extend" and instructs "No. 3 take over sighting".+ No. 2 and No. 5 move to the rear of the ladder to the extending line.• No. 1 gives the order "Extend". Nos 2 and 5 extend the ladder.• When the required height has been reached, No. 3 gives the order "Well" followed

by "Lower".• Nos 2 and 5 slightly lower the extension to engage the pawls, ensuring they are

fully engaged before releasing the load on the extending line.• No. 2 resumes their position with No. 1, bracing the ladder.• No. 5 moves to the face of the ladder and takes control of the line secured to the

top round of the ladder.• No. 5 steps back from the ladder, into a position to assist in lowering the ladder

with the line.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 93

• When the crew are in position, No. 1 will give the order "Head in".• Nos 3 and 4 walk slowly forward firmly holding the props.• the ladder is lowered into the building No. 5 assists by taking the strain on the

line.• When the ladder is in the required position the props are housed in their clips.• No. 5 ensures that the line is clear of the face of the ladder.

94 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

'Make up'

• Nos 3 and 4 remove the props from the clips and take up position at right anglesto the rounds in line with the strings at the face of the ladder.

• With Nos 1 and 2 footing the ladder, Nos 3 and 4 pull on the props and clear thehead of the ladder from the building bringing it to an almost vertical position.

+ No. 5 assists in clearing the head of the ladder from the building by applying anappropriate amount of weight to the line.

• No. 1 gives the order "Extend to lower".• No. 2 moves to the rear of the ladder and raises the extension slightly to clear both

sets of pawls.+ No. 1 gives the order "Well" followed by "Lower".+ No. 2 houses the extension and engages the pawls at the bottom round, ensuring

they are fully engaged.• No. 5 clears the line from the ladder as the extensions are housed.+ No. 1 if necessary, directs the centralisation of the plumbing.• No. 2 fastens the extension securing device.• No. 1 then gives the order "No. 3 to the rear".• While No. 4 controls the head of the ladder, No. 3 takes up a position to the rear of

the ladder.• No. 1 gives the order "No. 4 to the rear".• While No. 3 controls the head of the ladder, No. 4 takes up position to the rear of

the ladder.• The ladder is then under-run as in standard practice L3.+ No. 5 removes the line from the head of the ladder.• The ladder is returned to the appliance as in standard practice L3.• When the ladder is re-stowed, No. 1 reports to the Officer in Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• Vigorous movement of personnel when climbing the ladder may cause excessiveoscillation.

Additional Key Control Measures

+ Personnel must be informed of the risk of oscillation.• The ladder must be climbed slowly.• Climbing the ladder must be particularly closely supervised.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 95

96 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Deve'opment

Standard Practice: L5

Aim: To Pitch a 13.5m ladder in a restrictedspace with a crew of four

Prior Learning

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forstandard practice [3.

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Using the appropriate words of command.• Turning a 13.5m ladder.• Pitching a 13.5m ladder in a restricted space.

'Get to work'

• The ladder is slipped from the appliance as in standard practice [3.• The crew carry the ladder to the required position parallel to the face of the

building and, place the heel of the ladder on the ground with the jack pad furthestfrom the building positioned approximately one third of the working height from thebuilding.

• The crew then under-run the ladder as in standard practice L3 (Fig. L5.1).• When the ladder is in the vertical position Nos 1 and 2 grasp the strings and

stabilise the ladder with their outside feet, Nos 3 and 4 grasp the props (Fig. L5.2).• No. 1 gives the order "Tilt No. 3" or "Tilt No. 4" as appropriate (the crew member

nearest the building).• Nos 1 or 2, as appropriate (the crew member furthest from the building), stands on

the jack beam and grasps the strings (Fig. [5.3).• The prop handler nearest the building moves to a position slightly out-of-line with

the strings with the back to the face of the building and gently pushes up on theprop so that the ladder pivots on the jack pad furthest away from the building(Fig. L5.4).

• The ladder is turned by No. 1 or No. 2, as appropriate (the crew member nearestthe building), towards the face of the building (Fig. L5.5).

• Nos 3 and 4 maintain the angle of 'tilt' as the ladder is being turned.• When the ladder is facing the building, and with both jack pads on the ground,

Nos 3 and 4 carefully move to their positions to extend the ladder (Fig. [5.6).• The ladder is then plumbed if necessary, extended and positioned into the building

as in standard practice L3.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 97

I

98 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Figure L5. I Figure L5.2

Figure L5.3Figure L5.4

Figure L5.5 Figure L5.6

'Make up'

• The ladder is housed as detailed in standard practice L3.• When the ladder is in the vertical position Nos 1 and 2 grasp the strings and

stabilise the ladder with their outside feet, Nos 3 and 4 grasp the props.• No. 1 gives the order "Tilt No. 3" or "Tilt No. 4" as appropriate.• Nos 1 or 2, as appropriate (the same crew number as used on the jack beam in

the "Get to work"), stands on the jack beam and grasps the strings.• The appropriate prop handler moves to a position slightly out-of-line with the

strings and gently pulls on the prop so that the ladder pivots on the jack pad.• The ladder is turned by Nos 1 or No. 2, as appropriate towards the face of the

building.• Nos 3 and 4 maintain the angle of 'tilt' as the ladder is being turned.• When the ladder is parallel to the building Nos 3 and 4 carefully move to their

positions in preparation for the ladder to be under-run.• The ladder is then under-run and returned to the appliance as in standard

practice [3.+ When the ladder is restowed, No. 1 reports to the Officer in Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• When the ladder is being tilted and turned, there is a risk of control of the ladderbeing lost.

Additional Key Control Measures

• Personnel must be informed of the risk.• When tilting the ladder the jack pad that is being lifted should only be lifted

sufficiently to clear the ground.+ When the ladder is being titled or turned, Nos 3 and 4 must take great care to

keep the ladder as close to the vertical as possible through the use of the props.+ The turning of the ladder must be particularly closely supervised.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 99

1 00 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

4.5 Foam Standard PracticesPurpose:

The foam Standard Practices detailed within this section provide systems of work, whichwill enable crews to work effectively, and safely to produce and apply firefighting foam.

As with all Standard Practices they are learning activities which should be conducted ata pace, and practised at a frequency, to suit the level of performance of the individualand/or the crew as they endeavour to acquire or maintain the skills that lead tocompetence.

Generic Risk Assessment: Producing and Applying Foam

I SCOPE

The assessment detailed below summarises the findings of the common significanthazards, risks and control measures relating to the use of pumps and should be appliedto the Standard Practices contained within this section.

Additional significant hazards and risks particular to each standard practice areindicated in the specific section on that standard practice.

Fire and Rescue Services will need to review the findings of both the common andadditional risk assessments within the context of local conditions and circumstancesand implement appropriate control measures.

All personnel who take part in these Standard Practices should be aware of the commonand additional hazards associated with each of the standard practices.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 01

2 SIGNIFICANT HAZARDS AND RISKS

Hazard/Risk

Weight of thefoam compoundcontainers

Irritant effects ofcompound andfinished foam

High pumppressures

Under footconditions, slips,trips and falls

Control Measures

• The fire and rescue service should have risk assessed theactivities of stowage and removal of foam concentratefrom the appliance in use.

• Personnel must be instructed on:the safe way to handle foam concentrate containers, andthe dangers of inappropriate handling.

• Suitable PPE including eye protection should be wornwhen there is a possibility of exposure to concentrate orfinished foam.

• COSHH risk assessment findings and control measures tobe disseminated to all personnel likely to be affected byconcentrate.

• Any hose required to be subjected to pressures in excess of7 Bar should be tested and maintained accordingly.

• Where underfoot hazards are identified during the planningstage, suitable controls should be put in place, e.g. Physicalbarrier.

• Personnel should be briefed on the:potentially uneven surfaces being hidden by a layer offoam.Increased likelihood of slipping on surfaces affectedby the presence of concentrate and/or finished foam.

Note: The following notes apply to foam standard practices.

• When the standard practice has been completed, all hose and equipment shouldbe flushed with fresh water before being restowed. Particular attention should bepaid to the filters and strainers in all foam equipment.

• The basic Standard Practices are to be adapted, where appropriate, to performStandard Practices with other foam producing equipment. The extended use offoam branchpipes requires a continuous supply of foam concentrate. This willneed more than just one or two members of a crew and, for multiple branches, awhole crew may be required to maintain the supply.

1 02 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Standard Practice: Fl

Aim: To get a foam making branch to work with acrew of four

Prior Learning:

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forStandard Practices P5 or P8 and notes on foam Standard Practices (section 4.6).

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Carrying a foam branch and pick-up tube.• Carrying a foam container.• Siting a foam container, inserting pick-up tube and connecting up.• Holding a foam branch.• Operating a foam branch working from a pick-up tube.• Producing foam by means of a foam making branch.

'Get to Work'

• The suction side of the pump is got to work as detailed in Standard Practices P5or P8.

• No. 1 takes a foam making branchpipe and pick-up tube, and sites it ready foruse.

• No. 3 takes a length of hose, connects it to the pump delivery and runs it out.• No. 1 takes a second length of hose, runs it out from the first length and connects

it to the foam branchpipe.+ No. 3 then takes a container of foam concentrate to the foam branchpipe,

connects the pick-up tube and inserts it into the foam container.• No. 4 proceeds to the foam branchpipe along the line of hose, straightening out

any kinks and seeing that the hose is clear.• When ready, No. 1 gives No. 4 the order "Water on".• No. 4 passes the message to No. 2.+ On the order of No. 2, No. 4 turns the hydrant on.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 03

• No. 4 then returns to the branch with additional foam concentrate and assists asnecessary by providing further concentrate and carrying messages.

'Knock off' or 'Knock off and Make-up'

• No. 1 sends back No. 4 with the message "Knock off" or "Knock off and make up".• No. 2 closes the delivery.

'Make-up'

• As soon as the flow ceases, Nos 1 and 3 return the branchpipe, pick-up tube andfoam concentrate containers.

• Nos 2 and 4 make up the suction side of the pump as in P5 or P8.+ Nos 1 and 3 make up the delivery hose.• When all the gear is made up, No. 1 reports to the Officer in Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

+ Eye/skin irritation caused by splashes of foam concentrate.• Injuries can occur when carrying the container of foam concentrate due to its:

weight;size;shape.

Additional Key Control Measures

• Eye protection and suitable gloves.• Use containers that are as small and light as is reasonably practicable.• Personnel must be informed of the risk of injury.• Personnel must use safe lifting and carrying techniques.

1 04 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

No 2 orNos 2 & 4

No ito 4"Water on"

'F

1&3

No 4

No 1 Nos No 1 — 2nd Length No 3—1st LengthBranch& 3&4pick up

hose

Standard Practice: F2

Aim: To get an inline foam generator to workwith a crew of five (One Delivery)

Prior Learning:

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forstandard practice P6 or P9 and notes on foam standard practices.

Practical Learning Objectives

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Carrying a foam generator and pick-up tube.• Siting a foam generator.• Connecting the pick-up tube and hose to the generator.• Producing foam by means of an in-line foam generator.

'Get to Work'

• The suction side of the pump is got to work as detailed in Standard Practices P6or P9.

• No. 1 provides the generator and pick-up tube and places it on the ground closeto the pump.

• No. 3 takes a length of hose (usually a special short length), connects it to thepump, runs it out and then connects it to the generator.

+ No. 3 takes a further length of hose, connects it to the generator and runs it out.• No. 1 takes a length of hose and a foam branch, overtakes No. 3 who takes the

coupling and makes the connection.• No. 1 runs the hose out and connects the branch.• No. 3 joins No. 1 at the branch.• Nos 4 and 5 provide containers of foam concentrate.• No. 4 connects the pick-up tube and inserts it in the foam container.• When ready, No. 1 sends No. 3 back with a message "Water on".• No. 3 gives the message to No. 4 before giving it to No. 2 and then returns to the

branch.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 05

No 1 & 3

• No. 2 opens the pump delivery and increases the pressure to the correct operatingpressure.

• Nos 4 and 5 maintain a supply of foam concentrate.

'Knock off' or 'Knock off and Make up'

• No. 1 sends back No. 3 with the message "Knock off" or "Knock off and make up".• No. 2 closes the delivery.

'Make-up'

• As soon as the flow ceases, No. 1 disconnects and returns the branch.• No. 4 disconnects the generator and assisted by No. 5, returns the generator,

pick-up tube and foam containers.• No. 5 assists No. 2 to make up the suction side of the pump.• Nos 1, 3 and 4 under-run and make up the hose.• When all the gear is made up, No. 1 reports to the Officer in Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• As per P8.

Additional Key Control Measures

• As per P8.

1 06 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Nol&3 No4&5

No 3—1stLength

No 4&5Foam Container

No 1 — 2ndLength I No 1 —Branch Generator &

Pick-Up Tube

Standard practice: F3

Aim: To get an inline foam generator to workwith a crew of five (Two Deliveries)

Prior Learning:

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forstandard practice H6 and F2 and notes on foam standard practices.

Practical Learning Outcomes:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Using a dividing breeching in conjunction with a foam generator.+ Producing foam by means of a foam generator.

'Get to Work'

• The suction side of the pump is got to work as detailed in Standard Practices P6or P9.

• No. 1 provides the generator, pick-up tube and dividing breeching; places thegenerator in position close to the pump and connects the breeching to thegenerator outlet.

• No. 3 takes a length of hose (usually a special short length) connects it to thepump, runs it out and then connects it to the generator.

+ No. 3 takes a length of hose, connects it to an outlet from the dividing breechingand runs it out.

• No. 1 takes a length of hose and a foam branch, overtakes No. 3 who takes thecoupling and makes the connection.

• No. 1 runs the hose out and connects the branch.• No. 3 joins No. 1 at the branch.• Nos 4 and 5 provide the foam concentrate containers, connect up the pick-up

tube and insert it into the foam container.• No. 5 then takes a length of hose, connects it to the other outlet from the dividing

breeching, and runs it out.+ No. 4 takes a length of hose and a foam branch, overtakes No. 5 who takes the

coupling and makes the connection.+ No. 4 runs the hose out and connects the branch.• No. 5 joins No. 4 at the branch.• When all is ready, No. 1 sends back No. 3 with the message "Water on".• No. 2 opens the pump delivery and increases the pressure to the correct operating

pressure.• No. 3 returns to the branch assisting as required.• No. 5 maintains the supply of foam concentrate.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 07

No4&5

No4&5

1 08 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

No 1 — Generator / DividingBreeching

& Pick up Tube

No 4-2ndLength &

Foam Branch

No 1 to 3"Water on"

4&5Foam

Container(No 5

MaintainsSupply)

No 1 - 2ndLength &

Foam Branch

'Knock off' or 'Knock off and Make up'

+ No. 1 sends back No. 3 with the message "Knock off" or "Knock off and make up".• No. 2 closes the delivery.

'Make-up'

• As soon as the flow ceases, Nos 1 and 4 disconnect and return the branches.• No. 3 disconnects the generator and assisted by No. 5 returns the generator,

breeching, pick-up tube and foam concentrate containers.• No. 5 assists No. 2 to make up the suction side of the pump.• Nos 1, 3 and 4 under-run and make up the hose.• When all the gear is made up, No. 1 reports to the Officer in Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• As per P8.

Additional Key Control Measures

• As per P8.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 09

11 0 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Standard practice: F4

Aim: To get an inline variable foam inductor towork with a crew of five (One Delivery)

Prior Learning:

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forstandard practice P6 or P9 and notes on foam standard practices.

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct methods of:

• Carrying a variable foam inductor and pick-up tube+ Siting a variable foam inductor;+ Connecting the pick-up tube and hose to inductor;• Producing foam by means of an in-line variable inductor and branch.

'Get to Work'

• The suction side of the pump is got to work as detailed in Standard Practices P6or P9;

• No. 1 provides the variable inductor and pick-up tube and places it on the ground;+ No. 3 takes a length of hose, connects it to the pump, runs it out and then

connects to the inductor;+ No. 3 takes a further length of hose, connects it to the inductor and runs it out;+ No. 1 takes a length of hose and a foam branch, overtakes No 3 who takes the

coupling and makes the connection;• No. 1 runs the hose out and connects the branch;• No. 3 joins No. 1 at the branch;• Nos 4 & 5 provide containers of foam concentrate;• No. 4 connects the pick-up tube and inserts in the foam container;• When ready No. 1 sends No. 3 back with a message "Water On";• No. 3 gives the message to No. 4, before conveying the message to No. 2 and

then returns to the branch;• No. 2 opens the pump delivery and increases the pressure to the correct operating

pressure;• Nos 4 & 5 maintain a supply of foam concentrate.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 111

"Knock off" or "Knock off and make-up"

• No. 1 sends back No 3 with the message "knock oft or knock oft and make up"• No. 2 closes the delivery.

'Make up'

• As soon as the flow ceases, No. 1 disconnects and returns the branch;• No. 4 disconnects the variable inductor and assisted by No. 5 returns inductor

pick-up tube and foam containers;• No. 5 assists No. 2 to make up the suction side of the pump;+ Nos 1, 3 & 4 under-run and make up the hose;• When all the gear is made up, No. 1 reports to the Officer In Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• As per P8.

Additional Key Control Measures

• As per P8.

11 2 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Nol&3 No4&5

Nol &3

(It'No 4 & 5

Foam Container(s)

No3-lst&2ndLength

Nol-3rdNol—Length

Variable Inductor &BranchPick-Up Tube

4.6 Pump and Ladder Standard PracticesPurpose:

The pump and ladder Standard Practices detailed within this section provide systems ofwork, which will enable crews to work effectively, and safely with a combination of fireand rescue service pumps and ladders.

As with all Standard Practices they are learning activities which should be conducted ata pace, and practised at a frequency, to suit the level of performance of the individualand/or the crew as they endeavour to acquire or maintain the skills that lead tocorn petence.

Generic Risk Assessment: Working with Pumps and Ladders

2 SCOPE

The assessment detailed below summarises the findings of the common significanthazards, risks and control measures relating to the use of pumps and ladders andshould be applied to the Standard Practices contained within this section.

Additional significant hazards and risks particular to each standard practice areindicated in the specific section on that standard practice.

Fire and Rescue Services will need to review the findings of both the generic andadditional risk assessments within the context of local conditions and circumstancesand implement appropriate control measures.

All personnel who take part in these Standard Practices should be aware of the commonand additional hazards associated with each of the standard practices.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 11 3

2 SIGNIFICANT HAZARDS AND RISKS

Hazard/Risk Control Measures

Tripping over • Slip and pitch ladders before beginning to run out hose.hose whilst • Move hose away from the ladders prior to making ladders up.carrying ladders • No. 1 must check behind ladder to ensure all hose is clear

before under-running.

Falls from height • Secure uncharged hose aloft using:due to weight of Hose becket.hose aloft " Tie off in the building.

• Pump operator should charge the hose slowly and keep avisual check on the hose aloft.

• The coupling at the base of the building should be leftuncoupled until the order "water on" is given.

Being struck by • All crew members aware of sequence of numberingbranch out of delivery outlets and hose lines. The deliveries mustcontrol or by be referred to by numbers starting from the nearside.hose fittings On side mounted deliveries the numbers start from the

forward nearside delivery and run anti-clockwise.• Pump operator positioned in line of sight of branch

holders and pump gauges.+ Pump operator maintains communication with branch

holders.• All messages relating to the delivery of water must

include the number of the delivery, pump pressurerequired, position of the branch and be repeated forconfirmation.

• The pump operator must open up the delivery valvesand charge the hose slowly to allow the gradual build-up of pressure so that the messengers can return tothe branches and assist before the full flow is allowedto develop.

• When different pressures are requested for hose linesoriginating from the same pump, the pump must beoperated at the lowest pressure.

+ Engine speed must be adjusted to avoid variations inflow and pressure when opening and closing deliveries.

• Crew familiar with "branch out of control procedure", i.e.:i the pump operator should immediately close the pump

throttle followed by closure of the delivery valve;• Standard couplings or pressure release couplings should

not be released whilst under pressure, in particular:when releasing a blank cap from a spare delivery ofa pump;when making up hose after working aloft.

See also: Section 4.4 Ladder Standard Practices and Section 4.3 PumpStandard practices.Significant Hazards and Risks.Notes on Ladder Standard practices.

11 4 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Standard practice: PL1

Aim: To get a hose-reel to work aloft via a ladderfrom a pump with a crew of four

Prior Learning:

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forStandard Practices Li, L3, P1, P3 and notes on pump and ladder Standard Practices(section 4.6).

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Carrying a hose-reel aloft.• Fitting a hose becket.• Taking a leg-lock.

'Get to Work'

• The ladder is pitched and extended as detailed in standard practice Li or L3.• No. 2 engages the pump and opens the tank valve.• No. i takes the hose-reel and proceeds to the foot of the ladder.• Nos 3 and 4 clear the hose-reel whilst No. 2 pulls it off the reel.• No. i checks that the hose-reel is charged by a short operation of the hose-reel

branch.• No. 4 foots the ladder.• No. i makes an overhand knot in the hose-reel, places it over the shoulder, branch

to the rear and mounts the ladder.• No. 1 climbs the ladder and enters the building.• No. 3 guides the hose-reel ensuring it lies on the face of the ladder.• No. 3 then mounts the ladder, takes a leg lock, secures the hose becket to the

hose-reel and to the ladder below the sill and joins No. i at the branch.• No. 4 must be in a position footing the ladder whilst Nos 1 and 3 are mounting or

ascending the ladder.• If required, the water supply is augmented as detailed in standard practice P3.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 11 5

No 4

Follow SP

11 6 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

No 3 Leg LockFixes Hose Becket toLadder before joiningNo I at the Branch

No 1 &No 3

No 4 Footsthe Ladder

No 3 GuidesHose-Reelonto Ladder

No 2 orNos2&4

No 2

'Knock off and make up'

• No. 1 sends No. 4 with the message "Knock off and make up".• No. 2 closes the hose-reel valve (where fitted).

'Make up'

• No. 2 disengages the pump and commences to make up the hydrant equipment (ifin use).

• No. 4 returns and foots the ladder.+ No. 3 mounts the ladder, takes a leg lock, removes the becket and takes the hose-

reel from No. 1, placing it over the shoulder, branch to the rear.• No. 3 descends the ladder followed by No. 1, No. 4 clearing the hose-reel as it

comes down.• No. 1, on reaching the ground ensures that the hose-reel is clear and gives the

command "Ladder crew", whereby all crew members take up position on theladder and make up the ladder as detailed in standard practice Li or L3.

+ When the ladder is stowed, No. 4 makes up any remaining hydrant equipment (if inuse) and Nos i, 2 and 3 make up the hose-reel.

+ When all the gear is made up, No. 1 reports to the Officer in Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• Increased tripping hazard on face of ladder due to hose reel.

Additional Key Control Measures

+ Crew made aware of hazard.• Crew member guides hose reel.+ Climbing the ladder must be particularly closely supervised.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 11 7

11 8 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Standard practice: PL2

Aim: To get a line of hose to work aloft via aladder from a pump working from a hydrantusing soft suction (one delivery) with a crewof four

Prior Learning:

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forstandard practice Li, L3 and P5, and notes on pump and ladder Standard Practices).

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Carrying hose aloft.• Holding a branch at the head of a ladder.

'Get to work'

• The ladder is pitched as detailed in Standard Practices Li or L3.• No. i provides a length of hose and a branch and runs out the hose in a bight at

the foot of the ladder.• No. 3 provides a hose becket and a length of hose which is run out from the pump

to the foot of the ladder. The coupling is placed beside the male coupling of No.l's length.

• No. 2 engages the pump, removes the blank cap and connects the collecting headto the suction inlet (if it is not already connected).

• No. 4 ships a standpipe, hydrant key and bar.• No. 2 runs out a length of soft suction from the hydrant to the pump and makes

the connection.• If more than one length of soft suction is required, Nos 2 and 4 run out alternate

lengths.• No. 4 proceeds along the hose to the foot of the ladder straightening out any kinks

and clearing the hose.• No. 3 foots the ladder.• No. 1 passes the hose under the arm and over the shoulder, the branch hanging

down to the rear to a point in the centre of the back, mounts and climbs the ladderand enters the building.

• No. 3 guides the hose ensuring it lies on the face of the ladder.• No. 4 now takes over the footing of the ladder.• No. 3 climbs the ladder, takes a leg lock and secures the hose with the becket to

the round under the sill, then joins No. 1 in the building.• No. 1 must be in a position footing the ladder whilst Nos 1 or 3 are mounting or

descending the ladder.• No. 1 orders "Water on".• No. 3 returns to the head of the ladder and passes the message to No. 4 either

verbally or by hand signal and then returns to the branch.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 11 9

1*No 4

1 20 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

No 3 Leg LockFixes Hose Becketto Ladder before joiningNo 1 at the Branch

No 1 toNo 3

SP Li or L3

No 1 2nd-Length& Branch in a Bightat the foot of Ladder

No 4 Footsthe Ladder

No 3 GuidesHose ontoLadder

No 3 1st Length + Hose BecketCoupling at the Foot of Laddermust not be Connected until"Water On" Ordered No 2 or

Nos2&4

• No. 4 connects the couplings at the foot of the ladder and passes the message toNo. 2.

• No. 2 orders No. 4 to turn on the hydrant.• No. 4 turns on the hydrant and then returns to the foot of the ladder.

'Knock off' or 'Knock off and make up'

• No. 1 sends No. 4 with the message "Knock off" or "Knock off and make up".+ No. 2 closes the delivery.

'Make up'

• No. 2 disconnects the couplings, disengages the pump and commences to makeup the hydrant equipment.

• No. 4 returns to the foot of the ladder and breaks the hose connection nearest toit, then foots the ladder.

• No. 3 mounts the ladder, takes a leg lock, removes the hose becket and takes thehose from No. 1, placing it over the shoulder, branch to the rear.

• No. 3 descends the ladder followed by No. 1.• No. 1, on reaching the ground ensures that the hose is clear and gives the

command "Ladder crew" whereby all crew members take up position on theladder and make up as per standard practice Li or L3.

• When the ladder is restowed, No. 4 assists No. 2 to make up the suction side ofthe pump whilst Nos i and 3 make up the delivery side.

+ When all the gear is made up, No. 1 reports to the Officer in Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• Hose line being charged whilst firefighter is climbing ladder.

Additional Key Control Measures

• Coupling at base of ladder must not be connected until "Water on" command isgiven.

• Close supervision when firefighter climbs ladder.

Note: If the branch is got to work from the head of the ladder, the hose becket orsling should be attached to a more convenient lower round. The branch holdermust take a leg lock if the branch is to be got to work from the ladder. No. 3should, after securing the hose, descend to foot the ladder if No. 4 has to leavethe foot to pass on the message "Water on" or "Knock off".

Correct method of branch holding at the head of a ladder:Method 1:When the ladder projects several rounds above the sill, a leg lock can be taken ata position so that the branch can be projected through the ladder with one armaround the string for security and the face kept at sill level protecting it from theheat and smoke escaping from the window.Method 2:When the ladder is pitched to, but not above, the sill, the branch is held very muchas on the ground.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 21

1 22 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Standard practice: PL3

Aim: To get a line of hose to work aloft via aladder from a pump working from openwater (one delivery) with a crew of four

Prior Learning:

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forstandard practice Li, L3, and P8 and notes on pump and ladder standard practices.

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• Carrying hose aloft.• Holding a branch at the head of a ladder.• Fitting a hose becket.+ Taking a leg lock.

'Get to work'

• The ladder is pitched as detailed in standard practice Li or L3.• The pump is set in to open water as detailed in standard practice P8.• No. 1 provides a length of hose and a branch and runs out the hose in a bight at

the foot of the ladder.• No. 3 provides a hose becket and a length of hose which is run out from the pump

to the foot of the ladder. The coupling is placed beside the male coupling of No.l's length.

• No. 4 proceeds along the hose to the foot of the ladder straightening out any kinksand clearing the hose.

• No. 3 foots the ladder.• No. 1 passes the hose under the arm and over the shoulder, the branch hanging

down to the rear to a point in the centre of the back, mounts and climbs the ladderand enters the building.

• No. 3 guides the hose ensuring it lies on the face of the ladder.• No. 4 now takes over the footing of the ladder.• No. 3 climbs the ladder, takes a leg lock and secures the hose with the becket to

the round under the sill, then joins No. 1 in the building.• No. 4 must be in a position footing the ladder whilst Nos 1 and 3 are mounting or

descending the ladder.• No. 1 orders "Water on".• No. 3 returns to the head of the ladder and passes the message to No. 4 either

verbally or by hand signal and then returns to the branch.• No. 4 connects the couplings at the foot of the ladder and passes the message

to No. 2.• No. 4 returns to the foot of the ladder.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 23

1 24 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

No 3 Leg LockFixes Hose Becketto Ladder before JoiningNo I at the Branch

No 1 toNo 3"WaterOn"

Li & L3

No 1 2nd-Length& Branchin a Bightat the footof Ladder

No 4 Footsthe Ladder

No 3 Guidesthe Hoseonto Ladder

/No 3 1st Length + Hose BecketCoupling at the Foot of Laddermust not be Connected until"Water On" Ordered

Nol&3 No2&4

No 2

'Knock off' or 'Knock off and make up'

• No. 1 sends No. 4 with the message "Knock off" or "Knock off and make up".• No. 2 closes the delivery.

'Make up'

• No. 2 disconnects the coupling and disengages the pump and commences tomake up the suction side of the pump.

+ No. 4 returns to the foot of the ladder and breaks the hose connection nearest toit, then foots the ladder.

• No. 3 mounts the ladder, takes a leg lock, removes the hose becket and takes thehose from No. 1, placing it over the shoulder, branch to the rear.

• No. 3 descends the ladder followed by No. 1.• No. 1, on reaching the ground ensures that the hose is clear and gives the

command "Ladder crew" whereby all crew members take up position on theladder and make up as per standard practice Li or L3.

• When the ladder is stowed, No. 4 assists No. 2 to make up the suction side of thepump and Nos 1 and 3 make up the delivery side.

• When all the gear is made up, No. 1 reports to the Officer in Charge.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• Hose line being charged whilst firefighter is climbing ladder.• Working from open water (see P8).

Additional Key Control Measures

• Coupling at base of ladder must not be connected until "Water on" commandis given.

• Close supervision when firefighter climbs ladder.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 25

1 26 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

4.7 Principles of Techniques

Purpose:

Techniques form part of establishing safe systems of work which enable crews to applytheir skills to achieve defined objectives using specific equipment.

As with standard practices, techniques should be conducted at a pace and frequencyto suit the level of performance of the individual and/or the crew. This allows crews topractice their skills in specific situations and different environments.

Techniques should be developed and practiced to ensure that relative knowledge, skillsand understanding are demonstrated by both individuals and teams.

The learning objectives associated with techniques include the:

• practical knowledge in the operation of equipment;• safe and effective use of equipment;• awareness of equipment limitations;• achievement of specific, operational objectives.

Reference should be made to the Fire Service Manual on Rope Working when workingat a height.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 27

1 28 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Technique: TI

Aim: To pick up and lower an insensibleperson with two rescuers

Prior Learning:

All personnel must have knowledge and understanding of safe lifting techniques.

Practical Learning Objectives:

The crew will demonstrate the correct method of:

• Handling an insensible person.• Lifting an insensible person.• Carrying an insensible person.• Lowering an insensible person onto the ground.

Method - To pick up

• The casualty lies on the ground face up.+ No. 1 on their left knee, places their foot between the casualty's thighs close to the

crotch and grasps the casualty's arms.• No. 2 kneels on the left knee and places their hands under the casualty's

shoulders.

Figure T1.1

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 29

• The rescuers raise the casualty to a sitting position by simultaneously lifting theshoulders and pulling the arms.

Figure T1.2

• Nos 1 and 2 grip under the arms and around the chest respectively, then keepingheir backs straight simultaneously stand up lifting the casualty secured betweenthem to a vertical position.

• The rescuers then position their right knees side by side between the casualty'sthighs.• No. 2 takes the weight of the casualty on their right thigh.

Figure T1.3

• No. 1 grips the casualty's right wrist with their left hand, bends slightly at theknees and places the right arm under the crotch and round the back of thecasualty's right thigh.

Figure T1.4

1 30 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

+ The rescuers transfer the casualty onto the shoulders of No. 1 as inFigures Ti .4—6 ensuring that the weight is evenly balanced.

Method — To lower

• Nos 1 and 2 stand facing each other at two paces distance.• No. 1 takes one step with the right foot.• No. 2 moves the right foot forward and braces the right knee and leg alongside

No. i's.• No. 2 places their hands around the casualty's hips.+ No. 1 keeping the back straight and slightly bending the knees, lowers the

casualty into a vertical position with the casualty's legs straddling both rescuers'knees.

• Nos 1 and 2 hold the casualty under the arms and around the chest respectively.• The rescuers simultaneously lower onto their left knees.• Keeping their backs straight, they slowly lower the casualty through the sitting

position and gently onto the ground face up, No. 1 keeping hold of the arms andNo. 2 supporting the head and shoulders.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• Casualty head and neck injuries can occur if the head protection is unsuitablewhile laying face up on the ground.

Additional Key Control Measures

• Remove helmet before laying face up on the ground.• This training event must be particularly closely supervised.

Figure T1.5

Figure T16

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 31

1 32 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Technique: T2

Aim: To effect a rescue using rope andassociated equipment with a crewof three

Prior Learning:

• Safe lifting and manual handling techniques.• Fire Service ropes and knots• Safe selection and setting up of anchors.• Casualty assessment and selection of appropriate rescue equipment.• Selection and use of appropriate PPE.

Practical Learning Objectives:

The crew will demonstrate the correct method of:

• Setting up an appropriate anchor system.• Fitting and securing a suitable rescue harness or stretcher to a casualty.• Lowering an insensible person using lines and control devices.

Method

Preparation for lowering

• A training manikin is to be provided aloft to simulate the casualty to be rescued.• Nos 1 and 3 take the rope, associated equipment, casualty harness or stretcher to

the floor from which the lowering is to be carried out.• No. 2 remains at ground level.• When Nos 1 and 3 are ready at the floor from which the lowering is to be carried

out, No. 1 prepares the harness or stretcher.+ No. 3 attaches the rope to the rope control device and secures the device to a

suitable anchor point.• No. 1 assisted by No. 3 secures the casualty into the casualty harness or stretcher

and attaches the rope. No. 3 attaches the guy line.• No. 1 calls a warning and drops the guy line at arm's length from the window.+ No. 2 stands ready at ground level to take hold of the running part of the guy line

when it is dropped.• No. 3 ensures there is sufficient rope to place the casualty on the sill and that the

rope control device is locked.• Nos 1 and 3 lift the casualty on to the sill where No. 1 supports it. The casualty is

allowed to rest across the sill with the centre of gravity slightly inside the window.• No. 3 takes control of the rope control device and takes in any slack in the rope.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 33

Procedure for lowering

• No. 1 will issue all commands during lowering operations• When all is in readiness, No. 1 eases the casualty clear of the sill allowing No. 3 to

control the load through the rope control device.• No. 1 is positioned to be able to look out of the window and give appropriate

directions to No. 3 during the lowering operation.• No. 3 controls the lowering operation using the rope control device.• No. 2 applies the minimum force necessary on the guy line to ensure the casualty

does not strike any obstacles during the descent.• Once the casualty reaches the ground, No. 2 takes control of the casualty and

removes the rope.• Nos 1 and 3 make up the rope and associated equipment and return to ground

level.

1 34 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• Ropes may be damaged when passing over edges.• Excessive loading of the guy line may influence the operation of the rope control

device.

Additional Key Control Measures

• Ropes should be safeguarded by effective edge protection.• Ropes should be suitable for life safety use.• Only minimal force should be applied to the guy line.

Notes:

• Ropes and associated equipment should be carried in a suitable container.• It may be beneficial to stow ropes and associated equipment assembled ready

for use.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 35

1 36 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Technique: T3

Aim: To safeguard a firefighter workingnear an unguarded edge using ropeand associated equipment

Prior Learning:

All personnel must have knowledge and understanding of:

• The principle of work restraint• Fire Service ropes and knots• Selection of appropriate PPE

Practical Learning Objectives:

The crew will demonstrate the correct method of:

• Securing a safety belt or harness onto a person• Constructing a suitable anchor point• Using a rope and associated equipment to prevent a fall

Method

Preparation

• Nos 1 and 2 take the rope, safety belt or harness and associated equipment to asafe work area in which the equipment can be prepared.

• No. 1 dons the safety belt or harness, ensuring it is properly adjusted and secure.• No. 2 identifies a suitable anchor point.• No. 2 attaches the rope to the rope control device and secures the device to a

suitable anchor point.• No. 2 takes up a position where it is possible to view the progress of No. 1 during

the task to be undertaken.• No. 1 attaches the running end of the rope to the safety belt or harness.• No. 2 takes control of the rope control device and takes in any slack in the rope.• No. 1 assisted by No. 2 checks the security of the safety belt or harness, anchor

and all connections prior to leaving the safe area.

Carrying out the task

• As No. 1 moves away from No. 2 towards the hazard area, No. 2 ensures the ropeis paid out correctly through the rope control device.

• No. 2 maintains adequate tension on the rope to prevent slack rope from forming.• As No. 1 approaches the edge, No. 2 ensures that the length of the rope paid out

remains less than the distance between the anchor and the edge.• Once No. 1 has reached the desired operating position, No. 1 informs No. 2.• No. 2 locks off the rope control device ensuring that No. 1 is physically restricted

from reaching the edge by the length of the rope.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 37

Rope controldevice

Rope (locked off) Suitable

rianchor

fl'SIing

+ Once the task has been completed No. 1 informs No. 2. No. 2 readies the ropecontrol device.

• As No. 1 moves away from the edge No. 2 takes in the rope through the ropecontrol device maintaining adequate tension on the rope to prevent slack ropefrom forming.

• Once No. 1 returns to the safe area No. 1 disconnects the safety belt from therunning end of the rope. No. 2 removes the rope from the rope control device.

• Nos 1 and 2 then make up the rope and associated equipment and return toground level.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• Ropes may be damaged by running over sharp edges.• Roof surfaces and edges may not be capable of supporting the weight of a

firefighter.• Edges may be obscured by debris/vegetation or difficult to see in darkness.

Additional Key Control Measures

Ropes should be safeguarded by effective edge protectionRopes should be suitable for life safety useRoof surfaces should be assessed prior to work being undertaken.Firefighters should not move right to the edge of the roof.Work areas should be adequately lit.

1 38 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Karabinerattached

RopeA

Karabi ner

Make Up

Notes:

• If it is necessary for No. 1 to move in & out of the work location, the rope doesnot require to be adjusted.

• The rope control device must be manually locked unless adjustment is beingmade. Relying on an autolock system alone is not sufficient.

• Ropes and associated equipment should be carried in a suitable container.• It may be beneficial to stow ropes and associated equipment assembled ready

for use.• This system only provides for belaying a firefighter into position to carry out a

given task. It does not provide a means to support the firefighter's weight.• This system could be operated by one firefighter. In this case the rope would be

secured directly to the anchor and the rope control device to the safety belt.The firefighter would pay out the correct amount of rope through the ropecontrol device whilst moving away from the anchor, thus preventing them fromreaching the roof edge. Once the desired operating position has been reached,the rope control device may be locked off thus allowing the firefighter to work'hands free'.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 39

1 40 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Technique: T4

Aim: To effect a rescue using fivepersonnel, an extension ladder, arope and associated equipment

Prior Learning:

All personnel should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding for SPL1,SPL2, SPL3, SPL4 and SPL5 and have knowledge and understanding of:

• Fire Safe lifting and manual handling techniques.• Fire Service ropes and knots.• Casualty assessment and selection of appropriate rescue equipment.• Selection and use of appropriate PPE.

Practical Learning Objectives:

The crew will demonstrate the correct method of:

• Preparing the rope and associated equipment for lowering operations• Securing a person into a harness or stretcher• Lowering a person using rope through a rope control device

Method

Preparation for lowering

• A training manikin is to be provided aloft to simulate the casualty to be rescued.• No. 1 will issue all commands during operations.• The ladder is slipped and pitched to an appropriate floor.• No. 5 provides a rope and associated equipment including a casualty harness or

stretcher.+ Nos 1 and 2 foot the ladder; No. 3 ascends the ladder with a stretcher or casualty

harness and enters the building.• No. 4 takes the running end of the rope with a pulley and sling attached and

ascends the ladder as No. 5 keeps the rope from snagging.• No. 4 secures the sling to a suitable round and passes the running end of the rope

to No. 3. No. 4 then enters the building.• Nos 3 and 4 secure the casualty into the harness or stretcher. No. 4 attaches the

rope to the stretcher or harness. No. 3 attaches the guy line.• Nos 1, 2 and 5 re-pitch the ladder above the window or opening. The angle of the

ladder is adjusted if necessary.+ No. 5 passes the rope through the rope control device and attaches it to the

bottom round of the ladder.• No. 3 calls a warning and drops the guy line at arm's length from the window.+ No. 2 stands ready at ground level to take hold of the running part of the guy line

when it is dropped. No. 1 foots the ladder.• Whilst Nos 3 and 4 lift the casualty on to the sill, No. 5 takes control of the rope

control device and takes in any slack in the rope.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 41

Procedure for lowering

• Nos 3 and 4 ease the casualty clear of the sill allowing No. 5 to control the loadthrough the rope control device.

• No. 2 applies the minimum force necessary on the guy line to ensure the casualtydoes not strike any obstacles during the descent.

• Once the casualty reaches the ground, No. 2 takes control of the casualty andremoves the rope.

Make Up

• No. 5 clears the rope and rope control device from the ladder.• Nos 1, 2 and 5 re-pitch the ladder to allow Nos 3 and 4 to descend. No. 4

removes the sling and pulley from the ladder.• The ladder is made up.+ Nos 5 makes up the rope and associated equipment.

1 42 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Sling, karabiner and pulleyaround strings androunds of ladder

• Good edge protectionneeded here

Stretcher

Rope control deviceattached to jack beamby sling and karabiner

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• Excessive loading of the guy line may influence the operation of the rope controldevice.

• Excessive sideways loading on the guy line may affect the stability of the ladder.

Additional Key Control Measures

• No. 5 should be positioned close to the ladder, remaining clear of the casualty as itis lowered.

• Ropes should be suitable for life safety use.• Only minimal force should be applied to the guy line.

Notes:

• Technique T4 can be achieved using a 1 O.5m or a 1 3.5m ladder. SPL2 detailspitching a 1 O.5m ladder with a crew of three. To re-pitch a 1 3.5m ladder thefollowing steps should be taken:

• Nos 2 and 5 move to the rear of the ladder. No. 1 straddles the jack beam andgives the order "Head Out".

• Nos 2 and 5 use the props to lift the head of the ladder clear of the building.• No. 1 gives the order "Extend".• No. 5 takes over the props whilst No. 2 extends the ladder above the window or

opening until No. 1 gives the order "Well" followed by "Lower" to house theextensions onto the pawls.

• No. 2 then returns to the prop and Nos 2 and 5 lower the head into the building.• Repositioning into the window or opening is the reverse procedure.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 43

1 44 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Technique: T5

Aim: To safeguard a firefighter descendingthen ascending a fixed vertical ladderusing rope and associated equipment

Prior Learning:

All personnel must have knowledge and understanding of:

• The principle of fall arrest+ Fire Service ropes and knots• Selection and use of appropriate PPE

Practical Learning Objectives:

The crew will demonstrate the correct method of:

• Securing a harness onto a person• Constructing a suitable anchor point• Using a rope and associated equipment to safeguard a fall

Method

This technique is only appropriate in situations where the firefighter is descending andthen re-ascending a ladder, i.e. the anchor point is above the firefighter and the hazardarea.

Preparation

• Nos 1 and 2 take the rope, harness and associated equipment to a safe work areain which the equipment can be prepared.

• No. 1 dons the safety harness, ensuring it is properly adjusted and secure.• No. 2 identifies a suitable anchor point.• No. 2 attaches the rope to the rope control device and secures the device to a

suitable anchor point.• No. 2 takes up a position where it is possible to view the progress of No. 1 during

the descent.• No. 1 attaches the running end of the rope to the harness.• No. 2 takes control of the rope control device and takes in any slack in the rope.• No. 1 assisted by No. 2 checks the security of the harness, anchor and all

connections prior to moving to the head of the ladder.

Descending a ladder

• As No. 1 moves into the hazard area and starts descending, No. 2 ensures therope is paid out correctly through the rope control device. No. 1 maintains asteady pace.

• No. 2 maintains adequate tension on the rope to prevent significant shock loadingto the rope system should No. 1 fall.

• No. 1 keeps No. 2 informed of progress to allow No. 2 to control the rope, keepingslack rope to a minimum.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 45

Ascending the ladder

• No. 1 informs No. 2 when they are ready to ascend. No. 2 readies the rope controldevice and takes in the slack.

• Once No. 2 confirms 'Ready', No. 1 ascends the ladder at a steady pace.• No. 2 maintains adequate tension on the rope to prevent significant shock loading

to the rope system should No. 1 fall.• No. 1 keeps No. 2 informed of progress to allow No. 2 to control the rope, keeping

slack rope to a minimum.

1 46 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Ropecontroldevice

Safetyharness

Make Up

+ Once No. 1 leaves the hazard area away from the head of the ladder, No. 1disconnects the harness from the running end of the rope. No. 2 removes the ropefrom the rope control device.

+ Nos 1 and 2 then make up the rope and associated equipment.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• Ropes may be damaged by running over sharp edges.• Shock loading of the anchor system may cause damage to the equipment.

Additional Key Control Measures

• Ropes should be safeguarded by effective edge protection.• Ropes should be suitable for life safety use.• Slack rope should be avoided to minimise shock loadings applied to the anchor

system.

Notes:

• Firefighters should not simulate falling during training. If it is considerednecessary for firefighters to practise the management of equipment that hasarrested a fall, a training manikin should be used.

• If No. 1 does accidentally fall, No. 2 must allow the friction device to lock andarrest the fall.

• Once a fall has been arrested, No. 2 must immediately check the condition ofNo. 1, the rope and rope system and commence recovery operations.

• This system only provides for belaying a firefighter into position to carry out agiven task. It does not provide a means to support the firefighter's weight or forthe firefighter to be removed from the risk area once the task is completed.

• Although the primary hazard is that of falling a distance "likely to cause aninjury", the potential and likely consequences of a falling person strikingadjacent objects or surfaces should also be assessed before commencingwork.

• Ensure that an adequate clearance height is available below the scene ofoperations allowing for the extension of the system as the fall is arrested.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 47

1 48 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Technique: T6

Aim: To bridge a 9m or 1O.5m ladder with acrew of four

Prior Learning:

All personnel should should have the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding forSP1, Knots and Lines and have knowledge and understanding of ladder notes.

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

+ Bridging a ladder.+ Making a step ladder using two sections of a ladder.+ Making a support for the bridging ladder using a step-ladder and a hydrant key.+ Positioning and extending the bridging ladder to form a bridge.• Determining the maximum distances and other safety factors to be considered

when bridging.

'Get to Work'

• The ladder is slipped from the appliance as in SPL1.• The ladder is carried to the required position and placed on the ground with the

working face uppermost.• The head of the ladder should be nearest the gap to be bridged and about 1 m

from the edge.• Nos 1 and 2 provide a short extension ladder (or two sections of a triple extension

ladder) and a hydrant key.• Nos 1 and 2 construct a short step ladder using a pocket line to secure the head.• Nos 1 and 2 position the step-ladder adjacent to the head of the 9m or 1 O.5m

ladder.• No. 2 places the hydrant key horizontally across convenient rounds of the step-

ladder.• Nos 3 and 4 lift the head of the 9m or 1O.5m ladder onto the hydrant key whilst

Nos 1 and 2 support the step-ladder footing each section in the approved manner.• Nos 3 and 4 take up position at the heel of the 9m or 1 O.5m ladder.• No. 3 assisted if necessary by No. 4, extends the ladder the required length

ensuring the heel is stabilised by footing in the approved manner.• No. 4 lashes the two sections of the 9m or 1 O.5m ladder together with the pocket

line around the convenient rounds adjacent to the pawls.• Nos 3 and 4 lift the heel of the ladder and push the head over the hydrant key and

across the gap to be bridged with a continuous movement until the head isbeyond the contact point on the far side.

+ Nos 3 and 4 gently lower the head of the ladder into position on the far side.• Nos 3 and 4 take the weight of the 9m or 1 O.5m ladder whilst Nos 1 and 2 remove

the hydrant key and the step-ladder.• Nos 3 and 4 place the heel on the ground.• The heel of the ladder must be attended at all times when personnel are on the

ladder.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 49

+ Nos 3 and 4 lift the heel of the 9m or 1 O.5m ladder whilst Nos 1 and 2 replace thestep-ladder and re-position the hydrant key.

• With Nos 1 and 2 supporting the step-ladder, Nos 3 and 4 take a firm hold of theheel of the 9m or 1 O.5m ladder and applying downward pressure lift the head andpull away from the far side in a continuous movement.

• No. 1 gives the order "Well" when the head of the ladder is within 1 m of thehydrant key.

• Nos 1 and 2 lift the head of the 9m or 1 O.5m ladder clear of the step ladder.• No. 1 gives the order "Lower" and all crew members place the ladder on the

ground.• No. 4 removes the lashing from the 9m or 1 O.5m ladder and assisted by No. 3

re-houses the ladder extension.• The crew replace the ladder on the appliance.+ Nos 1 and 2 dismantle the step-ladder and return all equipment to the appliance.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• When the crew are about to bridge the ladder across the gap, there is a risk ofinjury to Nos 3 and 4 due to the increased weight at the fulcrum when the ladder isextended.

Additional Control Measures

• All crew members should be aware of the risk.• Nos 3 and 4 should exercise additional caution at this point in the technique.

1 50 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

'Make Up'

Notes

• This method is not suitable for bridging gaps in excess of 6m or to heightsabove 3m.

• There should be not less than 650mm of ladder on each side of the gapbeing bridged.

• Care should be taken to avoid undue oscillation when moving acrossbridged ladders.

• When footing the short extension sections, Nos 1 and 2 should apply weightand force against the movement of the 9m or 1 0.5m ladder whicheverdirection it is travelling.

• Additional crew members should be used at the heel of the 9m or 1 0.5mladder when passing it over the gap and when it is being retrieved.

• Consideration should be given to the provision of suitable fall-arrest systems toprotect personnel traversing a bridged ladder.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 51

1 52 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Technique: T7

Aim: To define and implement the ninemain protocols required to ensure thesafe extrication of a casualty from anentrapment situation

Prior Learning:

• Personnel should have basic first aid awareness and training regarding casualtycare.

• The principles of risk assessment must be fully understood and proficiency in theuse of rescue tools must be proven.

Practical Learning Objectives:

A full understanding of the priorities of each protocol and the clearly defined actionsrequired to ensure casualty care and subsequent extrication.

Method

1 Attain Scene Safety

• Prevent deterioration of scene safety by "fending off" with rescue vehicle,halting/diverting traffic, securing secondary hazards, keeping general public awayetc.

2 Rectify any Immediate Life Threatening Situation• Extinguish any fire.• Attend to breathing (airway) and control of external haemorrhage if life threatening

and immobilise cervical spine.

3 Stabilise Environment

• Stabilise or secure the vehicle or situation to prevent any further movement. This inturn, will prevent any secondary movement of the casualty and reduce thepotential for further injury.

• Consider scene preservation for subsequent investigation.

4 Gain Immediate Access to Casualty

• Once the situation is physically stable it is imperative to rapidly gain access to thecasualty to provide comfort and reassurance and enable the next vital stage to beundertaken.

5 Medical Primary Survey• Re-assess ABC and treat as necessary whilst immobilising cervical spine.• Assess level of consciousness.• Assess level of physical or medical entrapment.• Ensure this information is transmitted for full mobilisation.• Determine if critical, therefore rapid extrication necessary.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 53

6 Create Space Around Casualty+ Any intrusive environment to be cleared away to allow full medical primary survey

to continue. This may include cross bracing vertically, horizontally or both.• Re-assess ABC.

7 Prepare Evacuation Route

• Having regard to the medical condition and following agreement with MedicalTeam Leader on the evacuation route, preparation can commence. This cantake place during casualty stabilisation preparation. All obstructions on agreedpath to be removed prior to final movement.

• Re-assess ABC.

8 Extricate Casualty• Once method of removal agreed and evacuation route prepared, the casualty

should be carefully moved in one easy movement. Spinal support would normallybe expected and the use of a full length spine board to assist extrication should beconsidered.

• Re-assess ABC.

9 Scene Investigation• Assist with investigation where requested.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• Detached command and control is imperative if simultaneous activity is takingplace.

• If using live casualties during drill, an additional team member should standby withextinguishing medium.

Note:

Physical Entrapment

Where by the removal of panels or sub frames of the vehicle would allow directand safe removal of the entrapped person, whether physically injured or not.

Medical Entrapment

Is where direct medical intervention is required to allow the physical extrication ofthe casualty to be safely carried out. E.g. (spike through casualties thorax, pinningcasualty to the drivers seat).

1 54 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Technique: T8

Aim: To stabilise a vehicle still on itswheels prior to casualty extrication

Prior Learning:

All personnel must have prior knowledge and understanding of:

• The basics of good casualty care.• Knowledge of the nine main protocols surrounding casualty extrication.

Practical Learning Objectives:

Personnel will demonstrate the correct method of:

• Selecting the correct parts of a vehicle to maximise stability.• Using blocks and wedges to stabilise a vehicle.• Checking the continued stability of the vehicle during the technique.

Method

• A quantity of blocks and wedges are laid alongside the vehicle within the 1 moperating zone.

• The correct parts of the vehicle are identified for stabilising, giving due regard toany metal relocation that may subsequently be undertaken.

• Blocks are placed within 15cm of the end of the sill, with the top block securedfirmly under the sill with maximum surface area against the metal.

+ A suitable thin wedge is placed under step blocks or on top of standard or lockthe blocks and a firm steady pressure applied to ensure a tight fit. This is toprevent unnecessary movement of the vehicle until full stabilisation is achieved.Security of the wedges should be checked on a regular basis.

+ Stabilisation should be simultaneous on two points, either both nearside (oroffside), or both front (or rear).

• If the larger "step blocks" are used, these should be angled towards the front andrear of the vehicle to reduce intrusion into the working space of the 1 m zone.

• The vehicle's wheels must be chocked to prevent movement. On level or shallowsloping ground the chocks should be placed to prevent forward or backwardmovement. On steep sloping ground the chocks should be placed to preventdownhill movement.

+ Further blocks and chocks should be placed during the initial stabilisation of thevehicle to cater for any additional requirements of particular rescue techniques.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 55

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

4 Vehicle may roll forwards or backwards if on a gradient.

L

Step blocks should beangled to maximiseclear working spaceof the 1 m zone

on a regular basis(particularly after

Additional Key Control Measures

• Wedges must be placed on the down hill side of the wheels.• The Officer in Charge should co-ordinate simultaneous activity to ensure equal

stabilisation.

1 56 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

If necessary, wedgesmust be placed on thedown side of the wheel

During the process,a tap on the wedges

metal relocation)will ensure thestability of the vehicleis maintained

Technique: T9

Aim: To remove the side of a four-doorsaloon car to provide maximumaccess to a casualty prior toextrication

Prior Learning:

All personnel must have prior knowledge and understanding of:

• The basics of good casualty care.• The nine main protocols surrounding casualty extrication.• The competent use of hydraulic rescue tools.• The stabilisation of vehicles as per technique T8.

Practical Learning Objectives:

Personnel will demonstrate the correct method of:

• Preparing a vehicle prior to cutting.• Opening a rear door using a hydraulic rescue tool.• Cutting and then spreading and ripping the base of the 'B' post.• Folding back the complete side of the vehicle including both doors and the 'B'

post and securing them.

Method

• Place blocks and chocks in position as per technique T8.• Place additional blocks under the sill, below the 'B' post.• Using the tips of a hydraulic spreader, bend the trailing edge of the rear door and

gain access to the door locking mechanism.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 57

• Place the tips of the spreader in the lock mechanism and open the jaws to breakthe lock.

• Cut away seatbelt webbing and remove any window rubbers and plastic trim.• The top of the 'B' post is cut close to the roof line and above any backing plate of

a seatbelt anchorage point. (Figure T9.2)• Using a hydraulic cutting tool, a horizontal cut is made part way through the 'B'

post parallel to the sill. (Figure T9.3)

1 58 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

2 metres of clearworking spacearound the vehicle

Figure T9. 1

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 59

Cut above anyBacking Plateof Seat Beltor Seat BeltPre-tensioner

Figure T9.2

Figure T9.3

Figure T9.4

1 60 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Figure T9.5

• The spreader tips are placed between the sill and the bottom hinge of the openrear door and the spreading action of the jaws rips the 'B' post away from the sill.(Fig. T9.4)

• Once the 'B' post has separated from the sill, the rear door, 'B' post and front doorall hinge forward on the front hinges.

• The complete vehicle side is secured by a line to prevent any further movement.(Fig. T9.5)

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• Casualties can be at risk from the operation of hydraulic tools.• Rescuer and casualties can be at risk from the unexpected operation of seatbelt

pretensioners and airbags.• Rescuer and casualties can be at risk from breaking glass during metal relocation.• Rescuer and casualties can be at risk from exposed sharp edges.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 61

A line secured to theDoors to prevent anyfurther movement

7/Exposed sharp Edgesand Corners shouldbe covered

The Rear Door "B" Post and FrontDoor all swing open in one piece

Additional Key Control Measures

• Hard protection must always be provided between the casualty and the hydraulictools.

• Particular caution must be exercised when cutting into the base of the 'B' post toensure that seatbelt pretentioners are not triggered.

• Safe glass management is essential prior to any metal relocation. Make glass safeor remove, ensuring casualty is protected from glass debris.

• Any sharp edges are covered over to prevent any further injury.• The Officer in Charge must co-ordinate activity to ensure personnel and casualty

safety.

1 62 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Technique: T1O

Aim: To define and operate the one metreand two metre safe working areaaround a motor vehicle involved in aroad traffic accident

Prior Learning:

All personnel should be aware of the nine main protocols surrounding extrication.

Practical Learning Objectives:

• Demonstrate a clear understanding of keeping the 1 m safety zone clear of debrisand tools and keeping the 2m zone clear of debris and longer term tool storage.

Method

• The Officer in Charge completes a full all round inspection of the incident, outsidethe 2m zone.

• Any hazards within the 2m zone are identified and risk assessed.• Instruction is given to a crew member to approach the casualty.• Instruction is given to two crew members to stabilise the vehicle and dea! with any

identified hazard.• Whilst the vehicle is made safe and the casualty stabilised, the Officer in Charge

closely assesses the means of entrapment and starts to formulate a plan ofextrication.

• Loose vehicle debris should be removed from the 1 m and 2m zones. Glass ismade safe and either swept under vehicle, removed or covered over.

• Any medical equipment is kept out of im zone but ideally within the vehicle.• Temporary cessation of tool activity should result in tools being placed in the 2m

zone, keeping the 1 m zone clear.• Any longer duration of inactivity with a specific tool and the tool should be

returned to the tool dump or appliance.• Any hydraulic hose lines laying across the 1 m and 2m zones must be flat and

close to the vehicle with no loops causing trip hazards.• Any debris removed from the vehicle is either placed under the vehicle (small

pieces of trim etc.) or removed well away from the 2m zone.• Command and Control of the incident should be predominantly undertaken from

outside the 2m zone, but entering the 1 m zone when necessary.

Additional Significant Hazards and Risks

• On the initial scene survey, extinguishing media must be taken and placed outsidethe 2m zone.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 63

0)

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I N

) I

Technique: Ti 1

Aim: To familiarise personnel with theoperation and use of aerialappliances and associated equipment

Prior Learning:

All personnel must have prior knowledge and understanding of standard practicesoutlined in Section 4 and be aware of the specialist use of this type of appliance.

Practical Learning Objectives:

Demonstrate the correct method of:

• mounting and dismounting the appliance, ladders/platforms.• use and operation of monitors, stretcher cradles, rescue lines, and communication

equipment.+ working as a crew member in the cage.+ connecting where appropriate cages to ladders.• applying emergency procedures.• systems of work in the use of any aerial appliances.

Methods

• Basic technical input given by qualified operator.• Safety briefing.• Practical demonstration of appliance and equipment by qualified operator.

Purpose

Training will provide systems of work which will enable crews to work effectively andsafely with aerial appliances.

Training designed to confirm the use of aerial appliances to effect a rescue or act as awater tower will provide a means to confirm skills in siting of the vehicle and also useof its equipment. Training should be conducted to ensure care and thoroughness inprocedures and points of safety. These will be practised at a frequency to suit the levelof performance and complexity of operation to acquire or maintain competence.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 65

Notes

The following notes apply to aerial appliances:

• Aerial appliances include:

Turntable ladders (TL).Hydraulic platforms (HP).Aerial ladder platforms (ALP).

• Evidence on training for aerial appliances is contained in:

Dear Chief Officer letter 9/92.Dear Firemaster letter 5/92.

• Personnel must possess the skills, knowledge and attitude appropriate to theirwork and responsibilities. The guidance recommends the following trainingprogrammes:

Examiner.LI Instructor.ci Driver Operator.

Operator.> Recruit.E) Refresher.) Routine.

+ Only qualified personnel should operate aerial appliances and will require tomaintain their levels of skill and knowledge. Familiarisation training will also benecessary for those who may regularly come into contact with aerial appliances.

Generic Risk Assessment: Working with Aerial Appliances

1 SCOPE

The assessment detailed below summarises the findings of the common significanthazards, risks and control measures relating to the use of aerial appliances and shouldbe applied to training events.

Fire and Rescue Services will need to review findings of both common and additionalrisk assessments. It is important to consider these within the context of local conditionsand circumstances; appropriate control measures should be implemented.

Operating aerial appliances as part of scenario based training, exercises or testingoperational risk plans for the station ground will provide an important area for thedevelopment of individual skill and knowledge.

1 66 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

2 SIGNIFICANT HAZARDS AND RISKS

Hazard/Risk

• Siting and stability

• Improper operation+ Impact against:

PersonBuildingOther vehicle

• Shear traps• Crush injuries• Contamination (by

hydraulic fluids)• Noise

+ Engine emission

• Lifting/movement ofancillary equipment

• Working from height• Falls from height

• Being struck by fallingdebris/equipment

• Slips, trips, falls

Control Measures

• Information — Instruction — Training.• Ensure stable ground clear of overhead

obstructions (clear of drain covers etc.).• Slopes and inclines to be within operating limits.• Ensure correct jacking procedures.• Operations to be kept within safety limits.• Ensure safe working loads are adhered to.• Personnel in cage/on head of aerial appliance

to be secured via safety harness.

+ Information — Instruction — Training.• Safe working practices.• Safety zones.• Design of equipment.• Control of personnel.• Working to manufacturer's guidelines.• Correct PPE/maintenance.

+ Assess level of noise ear protection.

• Reduce if practicable.

• Manual handling training.• Provision of specialist equipment.

• Information — Instruction — Training.+ Personnel working in exposed areas will be

secured by harness.• All personnel to wear PPE.

• Appoint Safety Officer to ensure safeworking practices.

• Personnel working below kept to a minimum.

• Information — Instruction — Training.• Appliance design.• Correct positioning of appliance.

Section 4 Principles of Standard Practices and Techniques 1 67

Notes on Aerial Appliances

• The Aerial appliance driver/operator is fully responsible for the siting and safeoperation of the appliance.

• No person should mount any part of the aerial appliance without the permission ofthe driver/operator.

• Aerial appliances should be sited, levelled and jacked as per manufacturer'sinstructions.

+ Before allowing personnel to mount or work on the aerial appliance the driveroperator must be satisfied that the personnel are familiar with the safetyprecautions to be observed and where necessary must carry out a safety brief topersonnel.

• Prior to commencing operations the communications system between the baseoperator and the head of the ladder cage must be tested.

• Prior to commencing operations with this, the driver/operator must ensure that anyfirefighter at the head of ladder is standing on the hinged platform showing a'clean pair of heels' and is hooked onto the safety ring. When in position at thehead of this, the firefighter must indicate a readiness to the driver/operator byextending the left arm horizontally to the fullest extent.

• Whilst persons are ascending or descending the ladder, the appliance engine is tobe switched off so that no ladder movements can be carried out.

• Use of ladder or other devices to increase working height or outreach should notbe used.

• Some types of aerial appliance may require the use of guy lines to safely control amonitor when used operationally as a water tower. Others may be controlled bythe use of remote devices.

• Fixed water pipes should always be drained after use.

• Communications between the driver/operator and the head of the ladder/cageshould be maintained at all times.

• An HP or ALP must have two qualified operators with the appliances:

Driver/operator.Cage operator.

• Prior to any operation or sequence in operating an ALP both operators mustvisually check that personnel are not on any part of the cross ladders.

1 68 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Contents5.1 Principles of the Management of

Scenario Based Training/Development 3Purpose 3Link to Fire and rescue service Role Maps 3

5.2 Planning and Implementing Scenario BasedTraining/Development Events 45.2.1 Linking the Scenario to the Service's Reactive intervention

Risk Assessments 45.2.2 The Aims and Objectives of the Event 45.2.3 Prior Learning 45.2.4 Location of the Event 55.2.5 Risk Exposure 55.2.6 Resources and Time Required 65.2.7 Risk Assessment 65.2.8 Briefing and De-briefing the Event 65.2.9 Review of the Training Event 7

5.3 The Use of Live Casualties 8

5.4 Emergency Procedures 8

5.5 An Example of a Scenario Based Event 95.5.1 Determine the Training Aim 95.5.2 Identify the Training Objectives 95.5.3 Plan the Scenario 95.5.4 Identify Essential Prior Learning 95.5.5 The Risk Exposure Required 105.5.6 Location 105.5.7 Resources Required 105.5.7.1 Risk Assessment 11

5.5.7.2 Scenario Based Training Event Brief 125.5.7.3 Scenario Based Training Event De-brief 13

Section 5 Scenario Based Training 1

2 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

5.1 Principles of the Management of ScenarioBased Training/Development

Scenarios are meaningful simulations of workplace activity. These should be conductedunder controlled conditions and used to reinforce the learning experience and enhancethe awareness, confidence and safety of those involved.

Purpose

Scenarios should be as realistic as possible, preferably being informed by events basedon actual incidents. The purpose is to practise and implement the knowledge, skills andunderstanding necessary to achieve competent performance. Used properly, scenariobased activity is a useful tool to develop and maintain role based competence.

Competence can be demonstrated through participating in simulated activity. The use ofsimulations to allow a person to demonstrate competence is only acceptable where noopportunity has arisen as a consequence of actual work.

Wherever possible, simulations should happen at the site of any potential incident (e.g.chemical plant, oii installation) but that does not preclude the benefit that can be gainedfrom conducting the activity on other premises where appropriate. The learningoutcomes associated with scenario based events and activities include:

• awareness of the hazards and risks.• use of dynamic risk assessment.• selection and application of appropriate safe systems of work.• the management of incident command• appreciation of the limitations and use of equipment.• appropriate application of knowledge, skills and understanding.

This guidance replaces Fire Service Circular 5/1 996: Principles of Operational Training.

Link to Fire and Rescue Services Role Maps

Scenario based events are a simulation of workplace activity and must accordinglyreflect expected role-relevant standards of performance for those involved as identifiedin the National Occupational Standards.

Section 5 Scenario Based Training 3

5.2 Planning and Implementing Scenario BasedEvents

When preparing scenario based training events, planning issues that need to beconsidered are:

• aims and objectives of the event.• the prior learning required of participants.• location of the training event.• resources and time required.• training risk assessment, including environmental factors.• hazard and risk exposure.• briefing and de-briefing the event.• assessment, evaluation and review of the event.

The above considerations are detailed below and used in the worked example of ascenario based training event in Section 5.5.

5.2.1 Linking the Scenario to the Service's Risk Assessment/Safe Systems of Work

No scenario based training should be undertaken without reference to the service'sreactive intervention risk assessment. This link ensures that:

• all events are directly relevant to identified parts of the Risk Assessment! SafeSystems of Work.

• the activity has been risk assessed by the service.

5.2.2 The Aims and Objectives of the Event

Once the training development need has been established using the service IRMP andthe expectations of performance standards embodied in the relevant role maps, the aimand objectives should be identified. In this context the:

Aim is a statement of a particular performance requirement related to the type ofincident involved.

Objectives are statements of what personnel will be expected to do to achieve theaim.

5.2.3 Prior Learning

When considering the activities to be performed during the scenario, it is necessary toidentify and ensure that the individuals have the necessary knowledge, skills andunderstanding to allow them to safely participate. This, for example, would be achievedby site specific safety brief, etc.

Individual development needs within the team may vary. Due regard should be given tothis when assessing individual performance and overall achievement of the aims andobjectives. Where appropriate, line managers should take the opportunity of assessingthe performance of people against the appropriate role map or National OccupationalStandard bearing in mind the guidance on proper use of simulation at section 5.1above.

4 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

5.2.4 Location of the Event

While the service's own facilities can be used as the location for scenario based events,there are obvious additional benefits from planning and undertaking off-station activitiessuch as exercises. This will enable people to gain experience and knowledge of thehazards and risks in their respective turn-out areas and provide information to assistwith the risk assessment process at real incidents.

Off-station activities provide a realistic environment in which firefighters can practice,improve and consolidate their skills. These can ensure exposure to a wide range of sitespecific risks during each stage of development so that people can gain the knowledge,skills and understanding needed to demonstrate competence in a range of workplaceenvironments.

Such events should, where appropriate, be undertaken with neighbouring Fire andRescue Services, thereby allowing valuable additional experience in mutual co-operation.A structured system for sharing information should form part of this process.

Usefully the site's facilities and people can be incorporated into the proposed scenario.When achievable, this sort of collaboration can be of mutual benefit to the service andthe owner/occupiers. This may, for example, involve joint exercises between the localauthority fire and rescue service and the industrial fire service; attendance atdemonstrations or the testing of equipment or procedures, etc. Such arrangementsrequire close liaison between the service and the owner/occupier.

5.2.5 Risk Exposure

The use of scenarios allows a level of risk control that would not necessarily exist at areal incident, while still allowing firefighters and other participants effectively and safelyto practice the skills and techniques associated with their roles. The control measuresidentified in the risk assessment must take account of all participants, be theyfacilitators, safety officers or "players". Exposure to risk that is introduced into trainingscenarios can be either simulated or real.

SimulatedWhere the training benefit would not warrant exposure to a real risk, the hazard can besimulated, for example, by using empty chemical containers and water to simulate aspillage of hazardous materials.

RealWhere a degree of exposure to real risk may be justified to meet the training aims andobjectives it is important that any exposure to the hazard is planned and controlled.Detailed guidance is provided in Section 3.

Section 5 Scenario Based Training 5

5.2.6 Resources and Time Required

Consideration of the resources that will be required to achieve the training objectives willinclude:• how long the event will take to:

plan.set up.) brief.conduct.make up and de-brief.clear away.

• the appliances, special equipment and people who will participate (including non-fire and rescue service agencies).

• other resources required at the location.• how the site will be reinstated to its normal condition.• considering and writing up the lessons learned.

5.2.7 Risk Assessment

Generic risk assessments for simulation based events cannot be provided because ofthe wide range of possible scenarios. A competent person, however, must undertake atraining risk assessment for each event. If the event is held on a regular basis, theassessments should be reviewed and revised whenever there have been significantchanges to the circumstances they describe.

Trainers may wish to use example form TRA 1 (see Appendix 8) for planning scenariobased events.

It is vital that normal risk control measures are not compromised during the event.Detailed guidance on emergency procedures is provided in section 3.6.

5.28 Briefing and De-briefing the Event

It is essential that everyone involved in the event (including live casualties whereappropriate) is fully aware of:

+ the aims and objectives of the event.• the intended outcome of the event.• their role and responsibilities.• the risk control measures that have been provided.

The most practical way of achieving this is by means of a comprehensive and plannedbriefing and de-briefing.

6 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Briefing Format:The briefing must be carried out before the practical activity begins and should include:+ an introduction.• aims and objectives.• outline of scenario.• details of location.• mobilising arrangements.• communication procedures.• rendezvous points.• commencement time.• hazard simulation (fire, smoke, spillage etc).• hazards (site specific).• casualties (live or simulated).• control measures.• any other relevant items essential to the exercise.

De-briefing Format:The de-brief must be carried out as soon as possible after the practical activity andshould include:• a review of the aims and objectives.• an evaluation of the outcomes.• an evaluation of effectiveness of risk control measures.• a feedback from participants whether directly or indirectly involved.• the identification and recording of any shortcomings of procedures or equipment

to ensure they are actioned.

5.2.9 Review of the Training Event

Following an event, staff responsible for its planning, delivery and supervision shouldreview the activity to assess its value, benefit and, effectiveness.

Section 5 Scenario Based Training 7

5.3 The Use of Live CasualtiesThe use of people to simulate live casualties can be beneficial in terms of realism buttheir use must be strictly controlled because of the risk of personal injury. The risk to livecasualties must not be disproportionate to the benefits that will be derived.The risk assessments must identify appropriate control measures to protect the healthand safety of both the casualties and trainees. The control measures must include theregular monitoring of casualties, correct use of equipment and appropriate casualtyhandling techniques. The use of live casualties from outside agencies e.g. The CasualtyUnion, could be advantageous for certain types of scenario, for example one involvingmass casualties.

The potential benefits from the use of live casualties include:

+ practising the necessary skills and techniques required for the rescue of persons(including other firefighters).

+ identifying hazards or obstacles to the effectiveness of the rescue operation andcasualty handling.

• live casualties can provide valuable feedback regarding the rescue techniquesemployed.

5.4 Emergency Procedures (See also Section 3.6)

Emergency procedures must be in place to deal with situations of serious and imminentdanger that may occur during scenario based training events. The nature of procedureswill depend on the nature of the event. It is vital that normal emergency systems are notcompromised during training. ADSUs, for example, should not normally be operated aspart of any scenario, unless this is specified as a training objective.

Specific emergency procedures should be identified by the training risk assessment.Control measures must include:

• nominating person(s) empowered to initiate emergency procedures.• notifying participants of the nature of any emergency procedures.• nominating and identifying First Aider(s).• the action that participants should take if emergency procedures are initiated.• liaison with other emergency services.

Detailed guidance on the requirements for dealing with serious and imminent danger iscontained within the Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and theaccompanying Health & Safety Executive Approved Code of Practice.1

1 DCOL 8/199 7: item P — Fire Brigade Operational and Training Activities: Management of PhysiologicalStress.

8 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

5.5 An Example of a Scenario Based TrainingEvent

The example chosen is an incident involving road transport. The model used follows thekey planning considerations referred to in section 6.2.

Fire and Rescue Services are encouraged to use this model for planning other scenariobased training events such as compartment fire training, working at heights, hazardousmaterials etc.

5.5.1 Determine the Training Aim:

• Crew(s) to save and preserve endangered life2 (operations in the Community FF3;FF3.2: Rescue life involved in incidents, FF3.3 Provide treatment to casualties)3.

5.5.2 Identify the Training Objectives:4

Crew(s) to demonstrate the correct method of:

• positioning appliances.• making the scene safe.• prioritising actions.• stabilising the vehicle.• stabilising the casualty.• extricating the casualty.• handling equipment.+ application of appropriate tactics.• incident command.

5.5.3 Plan the Scenario

Scenario Relevant operational riskassessment

Road Traffic Accident involving two GRA 4.1vehicles on dual carriageway. Incidents Involving Transport

Systems — Roads.Vehicle One: Two persons — the driver istrapped by the legs, the passenger istrapped and is suffering from shock.

Vehicle Two: The driver is trapped.

5.5.4 Identify Essential Prior Learning

All participants should be:

• aware of the significant hazards and key risk control measures relating to dealingwith incidents on roads (detailed in the operational risk assessment GRA 4.1).

2 Training for Competence and Vocational Qualifications, FSC 8/1999.3 GRA 4/1 A Guide to Operational Risk Assessment — Fire Service Health & Safety Guide, Volume 3.4 Training objectives are statements of what the personnel are expected to do to achieve the training aim.

Section 5 Scenario Based Training 9

• aware of first aid arrangements5 and be competent in casualty care. b• competent in the selection and use of equipment and the application of the

appropriate rescue techniques.• aware of the tactical planning for this type of incident.

5.5.5 The Risk Exposure Required

Real• use of equipment.• manual handling of equipment and casualties.• site and environmental conditions as at the time of the planned event.+ accident vehicles and their systems, e.g.:

fuel tanks.lines.

hydraulics.airbags.suspension units.battery etc.sharp objects.

• live casualties.

Note Albeit the above risks are inherent at a road traffic accident, training eventprocedures should be implemented to ensure that the vehicles used have been sanitised,i.e. purged of all fuels, lubricants and coolants. Where the management of suchhazardous substances forms part of the training objectives, this should be simulated.

Simulated• dummy casualties.• blood spills.+ moving traffic nearby.

5.5.6 Location:

New by-pass whilst still under construction.

5.5.7 Resources Required:

Fire and Rescue Service• 2 x Water Tender Ladders and a Road Rescue Vehicle.• 2 observers.• Supervisory Officer.

Other• 2 cars from scrap yard (sanitised) to be delivered to (and removed from) scenario

location.• dummy or live casualties.• simulated blood.

Time Required• Set up 2 hours.• Brief 10mm.• Execution 30 mm.• De-brief 30 mm.• Clearing away 1 hour.

5 See appendix 4 to this manual6 See Section 5 of this manual

1 0 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

5.5.7.1 Risk Assessment

LOCATION

• positioning appliances• making the scene safe• prioritising actions• stabilising the vehicle• stabilising the casualty

New by-pass whilst still under construction

• extricating the casualty• handling equipment• application of appropriate

tactics• command and control

PERSONS AT RISK (TICK RELEVANT BOXES)

DURINGPersonnel exposed to manual handling risksand casualty handling

Vehicle systems

Operation of hydraulic tools

AFTERWaste materials

• Clear instructions of where the cars are to bedelivered

• Area to be designated and prepared prior todelivery

• Fire and Rescue Service in attendance whenscrap cars delivered

• Cars traffic — taped off• Fire and Rescue Service maintain presence at

location while scrap cars are on site• Police to be informed

• Safety officers to identify and correct anypotentially harmful handling techniques

• Safety officers to check vehicles prior totraining and tape up/make safe dangerousparts

• live systems included in brief• sharp edges covered up during extrication

• OIC to co-ordinate rescue and safety officersto monitor correct use of equipment

• Any spilt oil to be absorbed and disposed ofvia scrap yard

• access to site to be maintained to enablescrap yard vehicle to pick up cars aftertraining event

• personnel to stay in full PPE until site hasbeen cleared

7 Use CFOA or Fire and Rescue Service methodology to calculate risk factors by multiplying likelihoodby severity.

Section 5 Scenario Based Training 11

Training aim

TRAINING OBJECTIVES

• crews to save and rescue endangered life from a road trafficaccident

TRAINEES SUPERVISORS SAFETY OFFICERS NON FIREANDRESCUESERVICE

TRAINEE FIRE AND RESCUESERVICE INSTRUCTOR

FIRE AND RESCUESERVICE INSTRUCTOR

/DEVELOPMENT MANAGER / MANAGER

COMPETENT / CREW/WATCHMANAGER

CREW/WATCHMANAGER

CREW/WATCHMANAGER

CREW/WATCHMANAGER

Level of Risk7H M L CONTROL MEASURES REQUIREDSIGNIFICANT HAZARDS and RISKS

BEFOREDelivery of vehicles from scrap yard

Members of the public on site

Scrap vehicles

NAME OF ASSESSOR:

DATE OF ASSESSMENT:

5.5.7.2 Scenario Based Training Event Brief

Introduction Introduce trainers and nominated officers

Aim Crews to save and rescue endangered life from aRoad traffic accident

Objectives • Positioning appliances + Extricating the casualty• Making the scene safe + Handling equipment• Prioritising actions + Application of appropriate• Stabilising the vehicle tactics• Stabilising the casualty + Incident Command

Scenario Road Traffic Accident involving two vehicles on dualcarriageway.Vehicle One: 2 persons — the driver is trapped by the legs,the passenger is trapped and suffering from shockVehicle Two: The driver is trapped

Details of location New by-pass still under construction — refer to map

Mobilising arrangements WR/L + RRV from BlanktownWR/L from Greenville

Communication procedures Safety managers and observers on channel 3Incident command on channel 1

Rendezvous points Junction 23 A4(M)

Exercise start time 1 O:3Ohrs

Hazards:Real + Use of equipment

• Manual handling of equipment and casualties• Site conditions — there is a steep, slippery slope

Simulated + Other traffic• Blood — to be dealt with as for real blood

Key control measures 4 Use correct handling techniques — safety officerwill advise

• Standard Operating Procedures for live airbags

Casualties 4 Mannequins

Other relevant items • Personal fitness• Reporting of injuries• Catering arrangements

1 2 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

5.5.7.3 Scenario Based Training Event De-brief

ITEMS Significant Findings

Was the aim achieved?

Were the objectives achieved?

Was the risk assessment suitable andsufficient?

Were the control measures effective?

Feedback from key players

Feedback from others

Were there any shortcomings inprocedures identified?

Were there any shortcomings inequipment?

Were further training and developmentneeds identified?

ACTIONS TO BE TAKEN

Section 5 Scenario Based Training 1 3

ContentsAPPENDIX IGlossary of Terms and Abbreviations1. Integrated Personal Development System (IPDS)2. Appliances and Equipment3. Entrapment4. Telecommunication Terms

1. General2. Call-out systems3. Radio4. Computer systems

5. Standard Abbreviations1. Appliances2. Ancillary appliances3. Equipment4. Personnel5. Premises6. Miscellaneous7. Additional abbreviations applicable to Scotland

APPENDIX 2Communications

Guidance for radio usersRadio facilitiesAids towards clarity of speechStandard messages

APPENDIX 3ContentsIntroductionFitness in the Fire ServiceComponents of Fitness and Firefighting

Training ProgrammesMonitoring Levels of FitnessNutritionFitness Training Risk AssessmentSafe Exercise (medical history) QuestionnaireManual Handling

Appendices

APPENDIX 4First Aid at Work Training/First Aid at Work and Trauma CareManagement/First Responder or Similar Composite Training CourseIntroductionTraining Courses

APPENDIX 5Rank Markings

APPENDIX 6Manual Handling

APPENDIX 7SignalsMarshalling VehiclesPump SignalsEvacuation of Premises SignalsMechanical Handling — Lifting Signals

APPENDIX 8Form TRA I

2 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Appendix I

Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations

1. Integrated Personal Development System (IPDS)Assessment The measurement of performance against acknowledged

standard e.g. National Occupational Standards, RoleMaps; the act of collecting evidence of performance,comparison with the appropriate standard and the makingof a judgement regarding the level of performanceattained.

Attitude The mental set held by people that affects the way thatthey act.

Competence The successful application of skills, knowledge andunderstanding to achieve a stated outcome of expectedworkplace performance within a person's role as definedby the appropriate National Occupational Standard or RoleMap.

Competency The personal characteristics, abilities and qualities neededfor a person to be competent in a role.

Contingency Management The skills to recognise when things are not goingaccording to plan and then to rectify the situation.

Environmental Skills The skills needed to ensure safety, interact with peopleand the ability to cope with environmental factors that mayimpinge on a person's wider role.

Evaluation A process that determines the overall effectiveness of afunction i.e. Development.

Facilitator A person who helps others to access learning anddevelopment opportunities.

Knowledge The sum of what has to be known in order to perform tothe appropriate standard.

Performance Standards Descriptions of what people need to be able to do toachieve desired outcomes.

Proficiency The exercising of skill in an expert or adept manner.

Role A person's job; a number of functional activities consideredcollectively.

Role Map A collection of performance outcomes grouped togetherinto functions that define activities relevant to a particularrole.

Appendix 1

Skill A practised ability.

Task Management The skills to manage a group of tasks and to prioritisebetween them.

Task Skills The routine and largely technical components of afunction.

Training Need Analysis The act of systematically identfying training anddevelopment needs in the context of role requirement andworkplace performance.

Understanding The comprehension and expression of knowledge in thecontext of a role environment.

Validation A qualitative statement regarding all aspects of trainingdelivery.

Verification The process of monitoring and quality assuringassessment, its systems and processes.

2. Appliances and equipment

Adaptors

• Delivery hose adaptor

A fitting used for connecting together two lengths of hose with different types ofcouplings.

• Suction hose adaptor

A fitting used to connect suction hose to delivery hose or to suction hose of adifferent diameter.

Aerial Ladder Platform

An aerial appliance consisting of hydraulically operated booms, the first boomhaving telescopic sections with an operator cage at the upper end. Appliancesrange in size, can be operated from the cage or console, elevated and rotatedthrough 360 degrees. Full size ladders attached to the booms offer a continuousrescue capability.

Air lifting units

Reinforced inflatable cushions used for lifting when the use of conventional jacksis impracticable. Operated by compressed air via control valves.

Aqueous film forming foam (AFFF)

AFFFs are generally based on mixtures of hydrocarbon and fluorinated surfaceactive agents and have the ability to form an "aqueous" film on the surface ofsome hydrocarbon fuels.

2 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Axes

• Large axe

Sometimes known as a "felling" axe, used for breaking in or cutting away heavytimber etc.

• Firefighter's axe

A small axe used for cutting away.

Blank cap

A cover fitted to a delivery, inlet and suction connections when they are not in use.Also used to protect threads on other equipment e.g. on BA cylinders.

Branches

• Branch

A tapering fitting employed at the end of a line of hose between the deliverycoupling and the nozzle, in order to increase the velocity of the water and soassist the nozzle to provide a solid jet.

• Diffuser branch

A branch which can give a spray or a jet of variable size and which can be shut offat will.

• Foam making branch pipe

A branch used for the generation and discharge of mechanical foam in which thefoam solution is aerated, expanded and discharged as a jet or spray.

• Hand-controlled branch

A branch with the capability to stop or reduce the flow of water. It may be capableof delivering a jet, or spray, or both, simultaneously.

Breathing apparatus

Apparatus which is provided with its own supply of oxygen or compressed air,designed to enable the wearer to breathe in irrespirable atmospheres.

Breechings

• Collecting breeching

A fitting used to join two lines of hose to form one.

• Dividing breeching

A fitting used to divide one line of hose into two.

Note:A breeching fitted with a valve to control the flow of water is known as a

"controlled dividing breeching" or a "controlled collecting breeching".

Ceiling hook

A long wooden pole having, at one end, a steel point with a spur at right angles.

Appendix 1 3

Chemical Incident unit

An appliance designed and equipped to attend chemical incidents.

Chemical protection suit

A one piece garment which, when worn with self-contained or airline breathingapparatus, gives protection against harmful solids or liquids.

Chimney rods

Jointed rods to which the tubing of a stirrup pump or hose-reel can be connectedfor dealing with chimney fires.

Collecting head

Or "suction collecting head". Used to connect one or more lines of hose to thesuction inlet of a pump.

Collector pumping

A method of increasing water supplies by stationing pumps at a number ofsources and delivering water to the collecting head of a single pump from which itis pumped onto the fire.

Control Unit

A vehicle equipped as a mobile control room for use by the Incident Commanderat major emergencies. Equipped to communicate either by main scheme or handportable radios. Some control units are fitted with laptop computers foroperational data retrieval and chemical information. Normally identified by red andwhite chequered markings.

Control, Forward

Where the main control is sited at a distance, a forward control should beestablished in a conspicuous position close to the incident.

Contamination meter

An instrument used to detect contamination by radioactive particles; usuallymeasures in counts per second.

Couplings

• Delivery hose

An instantaneous coupling. There is one standard size (62.5mm) for all sizes ofdelivery hose.

• Suction hose

A round thread screwed coupling, the standard sizes being for 75mm, 100mm and140mm bore hose.

4 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Crowbar

Usually has a chisel edge at one end and a claw at the other.

Dam

A container usually portable, to hold water from which pumps can be got to work.

Distress signal unit (DSU)

A device, either automatic or hand-operated, fitted to the harness of a breathingapparatus to enable a distress warning signal to be sounded when necessary.

Demountable unit (Pod)

Any specialist appliance requiring a prime mover to transport it to an incident.

Door breaker

A device for breaking in a door or forcing it off its hinges in order to effect anentry.

Dosemeter

An instrument that records the total amount of gamma radiation received.

Ejector Pump

A portable jet pump designed for removing water from depths beyond themaximum practical lift of pumps and/or in confined spaces. It is operated by waterdelivered from a pump through standard delivery hose.

Emergency Tender

An appliance carrying specialised equipment for use at special services.

Film forming fluoroprotein foam (FFFP)

Film-forming fluoroprotein are fluoroprotein foam concentrates which have theability to form an aqueous film on the surface of some hydrocarbon fuels.

Fire beater

A wooden shaft at one end of which is usually fitted a piece of reinforced canvas.Used for beating out grass and heath fires.

Fire extinguishers

C02An extinguisher containing liquid carbon dioxide (C02), which is released as a gason the actuation of the extinguisher.

Appendix 1 5

Powder (gas cartridge)An extinguisher containing powder which is expelled by pressure from a cartridgeof gas, attached to, or fitted into the extinguisher.

Powder (stored pressure)An extinguisher containing powder which is expelled by pressure stored within thebody of the extinguisher as a whole.

Foam (mechanical, gas cartridge)An extinguisher from which mechanical foam is expelled by pressure from acartridge of compressed gas attached to or fitted into the extinguisher.

Foam (mechanical - stored pressure)An extinguisher from which mechanical foam is expelled by pressure stored withinthe body of the extinguisher as a whole.

Vaporising liquid (gas cartridge)An extinguisher containing a vaporising liquid which is expelled by pressure from acartridge of compressed gas, attached to, or fitted into the extinguisher.

Vaporising liquid (stored pressure)An extinguisher containing a vaporising liquid which is expelled by pressure storedin the body of the extinguisher as a whole.

Water (gas cartridge)An extinguisher in which water is expelled by pressure from a cartridge ofcompressed gas, attached to, or fitted into the extinguisher.

Water (stored pressure)An extinguisher from which water is expelled by pressure stored within the body ofthe extinguisher as a whole.

Fireground

The area in which firefighting operations are in progress.

Fire hydrant

A fitting attached to a water main below street or pavement level. The hydrantincorporates a control valve and an outlet connection to which a standpipe can beattached (double hydrants have two control valves and two outlets).

Fire hydrant cover key

A tool used to lift the cover of certain types of hydrant.

Fire hydrant key and bar

A tool used to open up a hydrant and turn on the valve.

Fire hydrant pit

The recess below the road or pavement level in which a hydrant is located.

6 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

First-aid box

The medical first-aid box carried on appliances.

Foam

The product of a mixture of foam concentrate, water and air.

Foam concentrate

A liquid used in the production of mechanical foam.

Foam container

A container to carry foam concentrate.

Foam dam

A portable reservoir to provide a continuous supply of foam concentrate for pick-up tubes.

Foam generator (high expansion)

See High expansion foam generator.

Foam generator

A device introduced into a line of hose for creating mechanical foam which isdischarged through a branch.

Foam inlet adaptor

An adaptor fitted on fixed foam inlets to enable foam branches to feed into a fixedinstallation.

Foam inductor

A piece of equipment whereby the correct amount of foam concentrate is inducedinto the water stream.

Foam solution

A solution of foam concentrate in water at an appropriate concentration.

Foam Tender

An appliance wholly or mainly used for carrying foam-producing equipment.

Gantry

A fitting at the rear of an appliance to carry a ladder.

Appendix 1 7

Gas tight chemical protection suit

A one piece garment which, when worn with self-contained or airline breathingapparatus, gives a high degree of protection against harmful liquids, particles andgaseous or vapour contaminants.

Gloves (electrical protection)

Gloves for use where live electrical wires or apparatus are involved.

Headrest

Fitting located at the front of an appliance to take the weight of the head of aladder.

Hearth kit

A kit of tools required for dealing with hearth fires and cutting away.

High expansion foam generator

A piece of equipment for generating high expansion foam. It consists of a fanwhich drives a spray of water and foam solution through a net gauze. Theresulting foam is delivered through a short trunking of large cross-sectional areaas it can only operate against a relatively small back pressure.

Hose

• Delivery hose

Hose used on the delivery side of the pump. The standard sizes are 45mm, 70mmand 90mm.

• Suction hose

Hose specially constructed to withstand external pressure, for use on the suctionside of the pump. Normally referred to simply as "suction". The standard sizes are75mm, 100mm and 140mm bore.

Hose becket/sling

A rope or webbing sling used for securing hose on a ladder. The type used onturntable ladders are sometimes made of leather.

Hose ramp

A device to enable vehicles to pass over delivery hose without damaging thehose.

8 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Hose reel equipment

Fitted to appliances and used to deal with small fires. Water carried in a tank onan appliance is pumped through 20mm bore rubber hose at high or low pressure.The hose is wound on a revolving reel and has small diameter nozzles or fog/spraynozzles attached to the end.

Hose strap

A strap used for securing a length of hose when it is rolled.

Hydraulic platform

An appliance carrying two hydraulically operated booms with a cage attached atthe upper end. Larger sizes have an additional short boom for the upper mainboom. The booms can be operated either from the turntable or from the cage andcan be rotated through 360 degrees. The cage is fitted with a monitor and canalso be used for rescue purposes.

Incident ground

The area in which fire service operations are taking place. This may, or may notinvolve a fire.

Ladders

• Extension ladder (7m, 9m, 1O.5m)

A two-section ladder extended by means of a line.

• Extension ladder (13.5m with props)

A three-section ladder with jacks, plumbing gear and supporting props. Extendedby means of a line.

• Short extension ladder

A light ladder in two sections extending to approximately 4m.

• Triple extension ladder

A light ladder of three extensions of a push-up type extending between 5.6m and6m.

Light water foam

An extinguishing medium having the ability to assist water to float on the surfaceof flammable liquids and provide a seal to prevent re-ignition.

Appendix 1 9

Lines

• Belt line

See "Pocket line".

• Bobbin line

A line wound onto a bobbin and carried in a pouch on some types of safety belt.Used for hauling up small gear. May also be used as a guy line.

• Grass line

A line made of coir or synthetic fibre which will float on water.

• Ground control line

A line used to control a turntable ladder monitor from ground level.

• Guide line

A line 60m long used in certain circumstances to guide firefighters in and out of abuilding when breathing apparatus is being worn.

• Guy line

A line (usually 40m long) attached to a turntable ladder to assist inmaintaining stability in a high wind.

c) A line bent on to an object e.g., rescue sling, stretcher or ladder, to keep itclear of obstructions whilst being lowered.

• Long line

A 16mm diameter general purpose line, 30m long.

• Lowering line

A 16mm diameter synthetic line, 40m long, may have two legs one of which isspliced in 1 .5m from one end of the line. Each leg is fitted with a running eye.

• Personal line

A line up to 6m long, secured at one end to a BA set and fitted at the other endwith a snap hook for attaching to a guide line when BA is worn. This line can beused at its full extend (6m) for searching off a guide line or it may be used "short"(1 .25m) for traversing a guide line.

• Pocket line

A small diameter line carried in a fire-tunic pocket and used for lashing branches.

1 0 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

• Rescue line

A special 16mm diameter synthetic line (usually 70m long) used for rescue workwith turntable ladders.

• Short line

A 16mm diameter general purpose line 15m long.

• Tail line

A line not more than 6m long permanently attached to a turntable rescue sling.Used to prevent undue swinging of a person being rescued when the turntableladder is trained away from the building.

Line/round protector

A device, preferably of a suitable aluminium alloy, designed to fit over the roundsof all types of ladders. It is attached to whichever round is necessary to protectthe lowering line, and round, from damage when carrying out lowering drills.

Monitor

A special type of branch with lateral and vertical travel, mounted on an appliance,or designed to operate unattended at ground level when it is known as a "groundmonitor".

Nozzles

• Plain nozzle

A tapered fitting screwed onto the end of a branch which determines the size ofthe jet.

• Spray nozzle

A nozzle designed to discharge water in the form of a spray.

Padlock remover

A lever fitted with slots in which a padlock is inserted. It is used to remove apadlock when effecting an entry.

Persuader

A cigar-shaped cold chisel mounted in a holder and used, in conjunction with asledge-hammer, to force the hasp of a padlock.

Pick-up tube

A tube through which foam concentrate is drawn into foam making equipment.

Appendix 1 11

Portable pump

A self-contained portable pumping unit.

Pump (appliance)

A self-propelled appliance having a built in pump with a minimum capacity of2270 1/mm. Carries either a 7m, 9m or 10.5m extension ladder and hose-reelequipment with a minimum tank capacity of 1370 litres.

Pump ladder

A self-propelled appliance having a built-in pump with a minimum capacity of2270 1/mm. Carries a 13.5m ladder and will probably have a tank capacity of 1370litres.

Rescue sling

A special sling used for lowering people. It has two loops connected to a steelring by which it is attached to a turntable rescue line. Sometimes used as analternative to spliced legs on a lowering line.

Resuscitation apparatus

Apparatus for supplying oxygen or a mixture of oxygen and air to a personneeding artifical respiration.

Safety belt (turntable ladder)

A special belt with a swivel type hook for use with turntable ladders.

Safety device

A mechanical device incorporating a line and a belt. The device must be attachedto the head of a TL or HP or to the anchorage of a drill tower.

Safety device belt

The belt attached to the line of a safety device which must be worn by thefirefighter being carried down.

Salvage Tender (also known as Damage Control Unit)

An appliance wholly or mainly used for carrying specialised equipment to preventor minimise water or smoke damage, etc.

Standpipe

Used on a hydrant to bring the outlet above ground level. The term normallyincludes the bend at the top which, when used separately, is known as thestandpipe head. Standpipes may have single or double outlets.

1 2 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Steel-shod lever

A large wooden lever, steel shod at one end, for lifting heavy objects and forcingdoors, etc.

Stirrup pump

A small, hand-operated pump used in conjunction with a bucket of water. Thepump is fitted with 12.5mm rubber tubing with a 3mm nozzle and delivers up to5.51/mm. In operation it is held steady with a foot stirrup.

Strainers

• Basket

Used over the suction strainer to prevent the entry of dirt and leaves, etc. Thecanvas part is known as the "skirt".

• Conical

A removable wire strainer fitted in the suction inlet of a pump.

• Slipper

A low-level suction strainer facilitating pumping from shallow water. Water canonly enter via the bottom of the strainer which stands on four short legs.

• Suction

A metal strainer connected to the end of suction hose to prevent entry into thesuction of objects liable to choke or damage the pump.

Suction

• Hard

Suction hose designed to withstand both internal and external pressure. It is usedbetween open water supplies and the pump.

• Soft

Delivery type hose used to connect the pump to a pressure fed source of water.

Suction wrench

Used to tighten suction hose couplings.

Survey meter

An instrument used to detect and measure gamma radiation. Also known as a"dose-rate meter".

Trauma kit

A holdall carried on appliances containing a comprehensive array of first aidequipment (including oxygen therapy) to assist in trauma management.

Appendix 1 13

Thermal imaging camera (TIC)

Used for "through smoke vision" and operates on the principle of thermaldifferentials. Carried on fire appliances for the use of BA teams for searchprocedures, team safety and for detecting hidden fires and hot spots.

Turntable ladder

A ladder mounted on a self-propelled chassis which is extended by steel cables. Itis operated hydraulically and can be rotated through a complete circle. It is usuallyfitted with a monitor at the head of the ladder.

Water tender ladder

See "pump ladder".

3. EntrapmentPhysical Entrapment

Where by the removal of panels or sub frames of the vehicle would allow directand safe removal of the entrapped person, whether physically injured or not.

Medical Entrapment

Where direct medical intervention is required to allow the physical extraction of thecasualty to be safely carried out. e.g. spike through casualty's thorax, piningcasualty to the driver's seat.

4. Telecommunication Terms

1. General

Acceptance point

A place where fire calls are received. Normally located in the Mobilising Control.

Central Alarm Station

A point where automatic fire alarms, fire telephones, intruder alarms etc. fromprotected buildings may terminate. The centre accepts the responsibility forpassing on calls to the appropriate emergency service control. This definition issynonymous with Central Commercial Alarm Centre.

Distress Call

A priority call over the public telephone system for sending urgent operational firemessages. Used only to obtain rapid connection in cases involving the safety oflife or property. The caller's request to the public telecommunications operatorbeing prefixed by the phrase: "Distress call".

1 4 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Failback control

A mobilising control which is only used in an emergency when the normalMobilising Control is not available, e.g. where it has been evacuated because ofan alarm of fire.

Fire alarm call point, manual

A device for the manual operation of an electrical fire alarm system.

Fire alarm system, manual

A fire alarm system in which the alarm is operated manually.

Fire alarm system, automatic

A fire alarm system comprising components for automatically detecting fire,initiating an alarm of fire and taking other action as arranged. The system mayalso include manual call points.

Fire telephone

A telephone provided exclusively for calling the fire and rescue service. It is oftenconnected to a private circuit from a fire risk to a fire station, mobilising control orCentral Alarm Station.

Incident Control

A site, possibly a mobile control unit, which acts as a focus for communicationsand command at an operational incident.

Mobilising Control

A permanently staffed and fully equipped room on fire and rescue servicepremises in which emergency calls are received and subsequent action taken tomobilise personnel, appliances and equipment.

Priority signalling facility

A facility for transmitting an urgent signal to the distant end of a circuit.

Private wire circuit

A dedicated telephone circuit permanently connected between two or more pointsfor transmission and reception of speech and/or data.

Public switched telephone network (PSTN)

A switching system which allows public access to anyone connected to thenational or international telephone network.

Appendix 1 15

PSTN stand-by line

Secondary means of operating a call-out system by dialled-up connections onPSTN.

Remote control Centre (RMC)

See "Central alarm station".

Secondary Control

A normal mobilising control (possibly in another fire and rescue service area) towhich, in an emergency, the functions of receiving emergency calls and mobilisingappliances are passed, in the event of an evacuation of the normal mobilisingcontrol.

2. Call-out systems

Acknowledgement signal

A signal transmitted back solely as a result of the reception of another signal e.g.a signal received at a call-out point of a remote control system indicating thatremote equipment had operated. It may not, however, indicate that other alertingsystems linked to the remote equipment are in fact operating.

Call-out installation

A line installation or radio alerter system, with associated control equipment, usedto call firefighters to the fire station from their homes and/or places ofemployment.

Call-out point

The place from which a call-out installation is remotely controlled.

Identification signal

A signal received at the call-out point of a remote control system indicating thatconnection has been made with remote equipment. It does not indicate that theremote equipment is operating.

Mobilising System

The manual or computer assisted system by which appliances are assigned to anemergency call and mobilised.

Paging system

A selective call, personal paging system which may utilise the outgoing transmitfrequency of a fire and rescue service main radio scheme, an independent pagingfacility using its own unique frequency, or the telecommunications paging network.

1 6 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Paging encoder

The control equipment of a paging system usually located in the central controlroom.

Public address system

A loudspeaker system which may be operated by remote control from a centralcontrol room or locally for both operational and administrative purposes.

Running call facility

A facility at a fire station which enables a running caller to give an alarm of fire.

3. Radio

Breathing apparatus interface

An interface designed to permit a handheld radio set to be used in conjunctionwith breathing apparatus in a hands free mode.

Call sign

An identifier, normally comprising a name, numbers or letters, by which anappliance or officer is identified when being called by radio.

Control Station

A place where main control operators and equipment are situated and from wherethe radio traffic of a scheme is controlled. Normally located in the mobilisingcontrol.

Duplex working

A communications technique in which it is possible to transmit and receivesimultaneously e.g. as in an ordinary telephone conversation.

Explosion protected

Equipment designed to be operated safely in an environment consisting offlammable or explosive dusts, gases or vapours.

Field telephone

A temporary telephone system using lines deployed for the purpose and usedmainly at operational incidents.

General clearance

A radio operating procedure term used by main control operators to denote that aperiod of traffic is completed and that out-stations may call in as necessary e.g."MSXY out".

Appendix 1 1 7

Handheld radio

A handheld or body worn radio transmitter/receiver

Leaky feeder

A linear aerial which radiates radio signals throughout its length. Such an aerial isparticularly suited to facilitating radio communications in sub-surface premises inconjunction with a UHF base station.

Main station

The place where the main transmitting and receiving equipment of scheme islocated. Sometimes it also includes the main control equipment and operators.

Main scheme radio

A radio system giving wide area radio coverage throughout the area covered bythe mobilising control.

Multi-station scheme

A scheme served by several main stations e.g. a large country scheme.

Out-stations

All radio stations in a scheme, including two-way fixed and mobile sets and fixedreceivers but excluding main stations, main and sub-controls.

Paging receiver

A device capable of receiving tone, numeric or text messages.

Retained alerter system

A call-out system utilising pocket-alerters, carried by certain firefighters, which aretriggered by a radio signal transmitted by a remotely controlled alerter transmitterusually located at a fire and rescue service station.

Retained alerter

A small alerter receiver carried by firefighters when on call and which soundseither an "alert" or a "test" when actuated by a radio signal from an alertertransmitter.

Retained alerter transmitter

A transmitter, usually located at a fire station and remotely controlled from acentral control room. It transmits either an "alert" or a "test" signal to pocketalerters.

1 8 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Radio UHF base station

A radio installation which allows boosted signals of double frequency operationwith UHF equipment. This equipment is usually provided as a mobile version but,exceptionally, e.g. at major airports, there are authorised fixed installations.

Simplex working

A communication technique in which it is not possible to transmit and receivesimultaneously.

Single frequency scheme

A scheme using one common frequency for transmitting and receiving by allstations.

Transportable Radio

A portable transmitter/receiver of roughly the same power as a mobile set.Normally used on the loss of main station facilities or to enhance the power ofhand-held sets to cover a wider area.

Talk-through

A facility on two-frequency radio schemes which interconnects incoming andoutgoing channels. Used to enable out-stations on a scheme to hear and talk toeach other.

Two-frequency operation

A means of operation whereby radios receive on one frequency and transmit on adifferent frequency (also known as double-frequency operation).

UHF base station

A combined radio receiver and transmitter which receives on one UHF frequencyof a two-frequency channel and transmits on the second frequency thuspermitting the use of two-frequency UHF assignments.

VHF/UHF mobile repeater unit

A composite radio installation comprising a VHF transmitter/receiver (on mainscheme channels) interfaced with a UHF transmitter/receiver (on hand-held setchannels). Can operate:

• On main scheme channel.• On hand-held set channel (with talkthrough) to enhance range of hand-held

sets.• Hand-held set through to main scheme stations direct.

Appendix 1 19

4. Computer systems

Acoustic coupler

A device that permits transmission of data over telephone circuits without makinga hardwire (fixed) electrical connection to the line.

BIOS

Basic Input Output System, stores basic information.

Bit

An abbreviation for binary digit which is the unit of information presented as eithera "0" or a "1 ". A single piece of information.

Byte

A sequence of binary digits contained as a unit. 8 bits = 1 character.

Central processing unit (CPU)

The unit of a computer in which procession of data takes place.

Chemdata

Microcomputer based chemical information retrieval system.

Computer

A machine controlled by a stored programe, which automatically inputs andprocesses data and outputs the results of processing.

Database

A computerised store of information e.g. street gazetteer.

Data processing (DP)

Storing, retrieving, sorting or selecting data, changing data from one form toanother, doing calculations or making decisions based on data.

Data transmission

The movement of information in a coded form over a transmission system bybreaking down letters and figures into codes in order to send messages byelectronic means.

Drives

Floppy, Hard drive, Network drive and CD-ROM.

20 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Hard copy

A permanent record obtained on paper through a computer.

Hardware

The physical units of equipment which make up a computer.

Integrated System Digital Network (ISDN)

A digital switching system capable of supporting speech and/or data andfacilitating the interconnection of radio and line connections.

Line printer

An output device which prints out one complete line of information at a time.

Modem

A device for converting digital information into voice frequency signals fortransmission over a speech network or for converting signals back again intodigital form at the receiving end of the circuit.

Network

An interconnection of two or more terminals to allow the transmission of data.

Peripheral

A piece of equipment linked to a computer.

Program

A set of instructions to a computer.

RAM

Random access memory used by the computer to perform calculations.

ROM

Read Only Memory

Software

An alternative term to program.

Terminal

A device providing a direct link between a computer and the operator.

Appendix 1 21

Visual display unit (VDU)

A terminal where data is displayed on a screen rather like a television screen.

5. Standard Abbreviations

Note: These abbreviations should not be used over the telephone or radio

1. Appliances

ALP Aerial ladder platformBAT Breathing apparatus tenderBACV Breathing apparatus control vanBL Breakdown lorryClu Chemical Incident UnitCu Control Unit/Command UnitDCu Damage Control UnitDecon.U. Decontamination UnitEST Emergency/Salvage tenderET Emergency tenderFoT Foam tenderHL Hose-layerHP Hydraulic platformIRU Incident Response Unit (Mass decontamination)P Pump with 9m or 1O.5m ladderPL Pump with 13.5m ladderREST Rescue TenderSSU Specialist Support UnitTSU Technical Support UnitTL Turntable ladderWrL Water tender with 13.5m ladderWrT Water tender with 9m or 1 O.5m ladder

2. Ancillary appliances

CaV Canteen vanFTr Foam trailerL4 Light 4-wheel drive vehicleLu Lighting unitLUTr Lighting unit trailerWrC Water Carrier

3. Equipment

ALU Air lifting unitBA Breathing apparatusELG Emergency lifting gearFBP Foam branch pipeFG Foam generator

22 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

HX High expansion foamLX Low expansion foamLPP Light portable pump (below 1600 1pm)MX Medium expansion foamTIC Thermal Imaging Camera

4. Personnel

AM Area ManagerBdeM/ Brigade Manager! Fire and Rescue Service ManagerFRSMIC Incident CommanderBAECO Breathing Apparatus Entry Control OfficerBTO Brigade Training OfficerCM Crew ManagerFf FirefighterGM Group ManagerSFPO Senior Fire Prevention OfficerSM Station ManagerSSO Senior Staff OfficerSO Staff OfficerOic Officer-in-ChargeComm.O. Communications OfficerMob.O. Mobilising OfficerPAO Principal Administration OfficerHSrep Health & Safety RepresentativeFIT Fire Investigation TeamTO Transport OfficerWM Watch ManagerWO Water Officer

5. Premises

Mob.Con. Mobilising ControlCmd CommandCon. ControlDiv Division!DivisionalDiv.HQ Divisional HeadquartersHQ HeadquartersStn. StationTC Training CentreWS Workshops

6. Miscellaneous

Actg ActingAFA Automatic fire alarmAFD Automatic fire detectionEx. Tele. Exchange telephoneFEu Fire experimental unit

Appendix 1 23

FP Fire preventionF and RS Fire and Rescue ServiceES Fire SafetyFSC Fire Service CollegeFSEB Fire Services Examination BoardPC Police ConstablePSTN Public Service Telephone NetworkP01 PoliceRCT Running call telephoneRet RetainedRT Radio TelephoneTemp. TemporaryVol. VolunteerWFB Works fire brigadeWT Whole-time

7. Additional abbreviations applicable to Scotland

Fmr FiremasterDFmr Deputy FiremasterAFmr Assistant Firemaster

24 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Appendix 2

CommunicationsGuidance for radio usersRadio facilitiesAids towards clarity of speechStandard messages

Appendix 2

Guidance for radio users(a) It should be remembered that transmissions on current fire and rescue service

radio networks are easily monitored by members of the public and others.Therefore, messages of a confidential nature should not be transmitted by radio.

(b) Because of (a) above, all messages and other transmissions should be confinedstrictly to the reactive intervention in hand.

(c) Authorised operating procedures and standard messages should be strictlyadhered to. Requests and instructions given by the operator in charge of thechannel should be accepted without question.

(d) Messages must be brief and adhere to standard phraseology and content. What isto be said should be decided before commencing transmission.

(e) Checks should be made that:

(i) the correct channel is being used, and

(ii) the set is switched to the correct channel.

(f) Messages should be read clearly and distinctly and at such speed that they maybe easily heard and, if necessary, written down. When broadcasting to a numberof stations, the second reading can be at a slightly higher speed.

(g) Important or unusual words should be spelt out using the NATO phoneticalphabet. Particular care should be taken when transmitting numerals.

(h) If called, a mobile should immediately indicate that the call has been received evenif the instruction 'Wait' has to be transmitted in reply. If a reply needs time toprepare, the rule is to answer at once and reply later.

) The operator must:

(i) speak close to the microphone keeping the voice at an even level.

(ii) use conveniently short phrases with a slight pause between each phrase.

(iii) not operate the transmit switch until the microphone is close to the mouth.

(iv) not turn the head away whilst transmitting.

(v) not shout or gabble.

(vi) keep the voice pitched normally, emphasising consonants and avoid lettingthe voice drop at the end of sentences or phrases.

(k) When finished transmitting, the microphone should be replaced carefully in itsholder and checked that the transmit switch is not left in the depressed position.Many radio transmitters have an automatic cut-out that terminates transmissionafter a fixed time. To overcome this, the transmit switch should be releasedmomentarily at the end of each phrase. This will also enable any 'Priority'messages being transmitted on the channel to be heard.

2 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

(I) The engaged signal must always be observed unless a message is urgent when a'Priority' procedure can be used.

(m) If it is suspected that the equipment is not working properly the facts must bereported to control.

(n) Any loss of fire and rescue service radio equipment should be reported to thepolice as per existing instructions, giving serial numbers wherever possible.

Radio facilities1. Call Signs

(a) Fire and rescue service main radio schemes are allocated official call signs. Theyconsist of the prefix 'M2' followed by two or three letters, e.g., 'M2FH'.

(b) Call signs for outstations may be allocated by individual fire and rescue services.Normally call signs identify appliances, stations or, in the case of officers, theirappointment.

(c) Because call signs are used when tracing interference, it is essential that schemecall signs are used. The general rule is that they are used by mobilising controloperators when giving the general clearance at the end of a dialogue with anoutstation.

(d) It is permissible for the mobilising control to omit the 'M2' prefix during normaloperations.

(e) Where an outstation from one main radio scheme makes a preliminary call to themobilising control in another scheme or calls another outstation using a singlefrequency channel, the operator at the outstation should use a self-evidentcallsign.

This should comprise, in the case of an officer, the officer's name and, in the caseof an appliance, the base station of the appliance and the appliance type, e.g.,'Bradford's Water Tender Ladder'.

(f) Callsigns for use with handheld radios are allocated by fire and rescue services.Common UHF channels are used throughout Britain: this facilitates direct contactbetween appliance and officers from more than one fire and rescue serviceattending the same incident. As such, the UHF callsigns will be standardthroughout Great Britain and allow inter-face service UHF communications atthe incident scene. The use of these UHF channels is laid down in DCOL7/1990.

2. Operating procedures

(a) For any main radio scheme there must be one station responsible for the generalconduct of the scheme. This is the responsibly of the control operators who arenormally located at the mobilising control. No outstation may transmit a messagewithout first obtaining permission from the control by means of the standard'Preliminary Call'.

Appendix 2 3

(b) No outstation should call unless it is known that the controlling station is free toreceive. In single frequency schemes this will be evident if the last transmissionended with the 'General Clearance' or that no other station can be heardtransmitting at the time. In two-frequency schemes a 'busy-signal' (a series ofpips) is radiated while the main control is receiving a signal from an outstationand calls, other than 'Priority' calls from outstations should not be made whilethe main control is transmitting (see para 3(f)).

(c) Although the calling and answering phrases used by different fire and rescueservices differ slightly, there are a number of points of good practice applicableto all radio scheme users which, if consistently adopted, greatly improveoperating efficiency and maximise channel utilisation, especially during busyperiods. The use of standard calling and answering phrases and callsigns isessential to enable users on a scheme speedily to establish initial contact andfor traffic on the channel to be efficiently controlled. Once initial contact hasbeen established it is unnecessary, and in fact undesirable, for these standardphrases to be unnecessarily repeated. It is only when signals are poor and hardto read that it is necessary to repeat procedural phrases and call signs toensure correct identification.

(d) All mobile and other outstation radio equipment in fire and rescue services radioschemes operate in the 'simplex' mode (it is not possible to transmit and receivesimultaneously as with a telephone conversation). Therefore, the word 'Over' isused to indicate to the receiving station that the caller is about to switch from'transmit' to 'receive'.

(e) Most main controls of fire and rescue services radio schemes operate in the'duplex' mode (operators can hear incoming message while an outgoingtransmission is in progress). Whilst this does not affect the need for strict usage ofthe 'Over' procedure, it enables outstation operators to call-in for priority attentionwhile the control is transmitting.

(f) The control operator on any radio channel is responsible at all times formaintaining radio discipline and by being firm, clear and concise, can do a greatdeal, especially during busy periods, to speed up radio traffic and achievemaximum use of air time. Outstation users must, at all times, accept thediscipline imposed by main control operators and never proceed withtransmission of a message without first making a preliminary call to main controlfor permission to proceed.

(g) Main control operators must always conclude a period of transmission bybroadcasting what is known as the 'General Clearance' which should include thefull official callsign of the scheme. The general clearance indicates that previoususers have finished for the time being and the channel is now free for othercallers who may be waiting to use it. The operative word in the generalclearance is the word 'Out' transmitted in place of the word 'Over', e.g., 'M2FH-Out'.

(h) When a substantial number of hand-held radios are being used on a UHFchannel, or a single frequency VHF channel, it may be useful to considernominating an operator to take charge of the channel to avoid confusion.

The procedure adopted in these circumstances should be generally similar to thatadopted to control radio traffic on main schemes. Operators should remember

4 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

that there will be no busy signal and they must listen to ensure that the channelis free before making a preliminary call. It is also worth noting that atransmission may still be taking place on the channel although it cannot beheard from the location of the operator about to make a call.

(j) Outstations on a main radio scheme should not change channel, for example to asingle frequency VHF channel or to the channel of another mobilising control,without first seeking the permission of the parent control to do so. Similarly,where an outstation has changed to the channel of another mobilising control itshould notify that control of its availability on the channel.

(k) Congestion on radio channels is often aggravated by unnecessary repetition ofcallsigns and procedural phrases as well as by failure to use the standardmessages and abbreviations. If the simple points of good practice referred to inthis section are observed, and the standard message procedure adhered to,general efficiency is greatly improved and radio channel congestion minimisedespecially during busy periods.

3. Methods of signalling

Both 'direct' and 'broadcast' methods of signalling are used in the fire and rescueservices and examples which illustrate the principles of these two signalling methodsare given in the following paragraphs.

(a) Direct method(for use when two stations are communicating with each other).

(i) Preliminary call. Which should normally precede a conversation with, ortransmission of, a message to another radio station:

FH from 234 Over (mobile calling control)234 from FH Over (control calling mobile).

(ii) Response. The station called replies (without any prefix) with 'Go ahead'or 'Wait' as appropriate, followed by its own abbreviated callsign and theword 'Over':

Go ahead FH Over (control answering mobile)Go ahead 234 Over (mobile answering control)

When two outstations call-in simultaneously then the Control operatormust, in their response, indicate which station is to proceed by quoting itscall sign:

Go ahead 234 Over

If it is necessary to send a message via another station to one which isoutside the direct range of the originating station the latter must makethis clear to the intermediate station and quote the callsign of the stationto which the message is to be sent:

Pass message to 253 Begins. From ... to ... etc.

Appendix 2 5

(b) Broadcast methodUsually used by the Control for transmitting the same message to all or anumber of outstations. The preliminary calling phrase is to be transmitted twice,followed by the message (at dictation speed if to be written down) and thenrepeated at normal speed as a check followed by 'Message ends':

FH calling all stations FH calling all stationsBegins ... ends (transmitted twice)

When the attention of only some of the stations on the channel is required theirindividual callsigns must be clearly quoted:

FH calling 234, 237, 342 and 344 (transmitted twice)

Stations called with a broadcast message should acknowledge only whencalled upon to do so by the calling station, which should bring them in one at atime:

Ends. Acknowledge 234 OverReceived 234 Over (234 acknowledging)

237 Over (Control to 237)Received 237 (237 acknowledging) etc.

until all stations have acknowledged after which Control should conclude withthe general clearance — M2FH Out.

(c) Transmission of text messagesAll messages sent by radio must be as brief as possible and those to be writtendown by the recipients must be transmitted at slow dictation speed. Whereappropriate, the phrasing of messages should conform to the Standardmessage procedures section of this Manual.

Unless callsigns in themselves are sufficient identification of the addressee andaddressor this must be made clear in the prefix to the message:

FH calling 274 From. . . to. . . Begins

(d) Outstation to Outstation callingWhen it is necessary for outstations to speak to each other direct, e.g., mobileto mobile, permission to do so must first come from the main control:

FH from 234 Talk-through with 317 Over.

The control operator replies 'Go ahead 234 Over' leaving 234 to call 317 direct.When finished, the initiating officer at 234 should conclude with the word 'Out'when main control should give the clearance of 'M2FH Out'.

(e) Priority of attentionPriority of attention should only be requested for extremely urgent messages.The method of obtaining it is exercised by use of the word 'Priority' in thepreliminary call:

6 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

FH from 234 Priority Over.If all transmissions are kept as short as possible, there should rarely be theneed for a priority caller to break into another station's transmission.

(f) Reporting 'On' and 'Off' radio watchIn order that the availability of stations 'on the air' may be kept up to date bythe control, outstation operators should always report 'On watch' when theyfirst switch on their sets. Before switching off, operators should report that thestation is 'Closing down'.

This type of very brief message may be included in the preliminary call:

FH from 234 On watch/closing Over.

(g) Repetitions, corrections and checksWhen a transmission is not understood, the recipient should reply with theword 'Repeat' signifying that the transmission should be repeated in full. Whenonly parts of the transmission are involved the following phrases should beused:

Repeat/correction/check word after/before.Repeat/correction/check all after/beforeRepeat/correction/check all between ... andRepeat/correction/check address to/from

In the case of very short messages it is usually simpler and quicker to requestrepetition of the whole message rather than a particular part.

In the case of a long message the transmitting station should occasionallypause to check that the message is being received.

(h) Signal strength reportsWhen reporting the quality of signals received it should not normally benecessary to use phrases other than the following:

Loud and clearWeak but readableUnreadable

When reporting noise or interference, operators should use their plain languagedescription which, in the case of interference from another radio station, shouldinclude any general information (especially call signs or names) which mightassist in tracing its origin.

) Phonetic alphabetThe NATO phonetic alphabet and other aids towards clarity of speech shouldbe memorised and used as necessary by all operators and users of radio. It isnot normally necessary to use the phonetic alphabet when quoting radiocallsigns commonly used in a local radio scheme.

(k) DefinitionsThe following standard terms are used to save time and should be usedconsistently by all radio users.

Appendix 2 7

'Over' Used at the end of any transmission if an answer is required or expected.

'Out' Used at the end of a transmission when no answer is required orexpected. When used by main control in the 'general clearance' the word'Out' signifies that the channel is open for further traffic.

'Received' Used to acknowledge receipt of a transmission and signifies that thetransmission or message has been received, is understood and will becomplied with.

'Repeat' Used when the recipient has not understood some or all of the message.

'Verify' Used when requesting verification of the accuracy of information (such asthe address of an incident).

'I Spell' Used immediately prior to spelling out a word, abbreviation, letter orseries of letters.

'Figures' Used immediately prior to a series of numbers where there is anypossibility of a misunderstanding in the meaning of the transmissions.

4. National Channel Plan

To enhance same service interoperability prior to the roll-out of the Firelink solution, aNational channel plan has been implemented. This enables mobile resources travellingoutside of their normal service area to communicate with the Control Room and themobile resources in the area they are located, as long as they both have the same radiosystem. Project Guidance Note 24 'National Guidance Document for Fire ServiceNational Roaming and Interoperability between Fire and Rescue Services' details theprocedures.

Aids towards clarity of speech on telephoneand radio(a) When sending names or words

The vowel sounds should be given their ordinary value and the sound ofconsonants emphasised.

The phonetic equivalents given below should be used by fire and rescueservices personnel when passing messages by telephone and radio whenever itis necessary to emphasise the identity of letters and numerals.

When using the phonetic alphabet, particular attention should be given tophonetic pronunciations, emphasis being laid on the syllables which areunderlined.

Letter PronunciationA ALFA AL FAHB BRAVO BRAHVOHC CHARLIE CHAR LEE

8 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

D DELTA DELL TAHE ECHO ECKOHF FOXTROT FOKS TROTG GOLF GOLFH HOTEL HOH TELLI INDIA INDEEAHJ JULIET JEW LEE EliK KILO KEY LOHL LIMA LEE MAHM MIKE MIKEN NOVEMBER NO VEM BER0 OSCAR OSSCAHP PAPA PAP PAHo QUEBEC KEY BECKR ROMEO ROHMEOHS SIERRA SEEAIRRAHT TANGO TANG GOU UNIFORM YOU NEE FORMV VICTOR VICTAHW WHISKEY WISS KEYX X-RAY ECKS RAYY YANKEE YANK KEYZ ZULU ZOO LOO

(b) When sending figures

Number PronunciationO ZERO1 WUN2 TOO3 THUH-REE4 FOW-ER5 FI-YIV6 SIX7 SEVEN8 ATE9 NINER

(c) Telephone Numbers

When quoting telephone numbers it is the practice for emergency operators to followthe guidance given in the following notes:

Complete hundreds up to 900 and complete thousands up to and including 10000 are pronounced in the ordinary manner, e.g. seven hundred, nine thousand.

When pronouncing other numbers including complete thousands above10 000:

(i) three and four figure numbers, a slight pause is made between the'hundreds' and the 'tens' digits;

(ii) five figure numbers, a slight pause is made after the first and third figures;

(iii) six figure numbers, a slight pause is made after the second and fourthfigures.

When the same figure occurs twice between the pauses the word 'double' is used tocombine the pairs of figures but, where the pause occurs between the repeated figures,each figure is quoted separately.

Appendix 2 9

Examples

Numbers Pronunciations10 one-oh22 double two

223 two-two three333 three double three

0334 oh three-three four22551 two-two five-five one44000 four-four oh-double-oh

255211 two five-five two double one

Standard messages1. Messages from fires and other incidents

(a) The drafting and despatch of messages from incidents is a most importantaspect of fire and rescue service work. Mobilising controls must be keptregularly advised of information relevant to their mobilising responsibilities.Senior officers have to be kept informed of situations as they develop in orderthat the appropriate action can be initiated by them.

(b) In order that information from incidents can be drafted and dispatched usingthe minimum radio air-time and maximum clarity a standard message format isused.

(c) Although there may be local variations in detail to meet the needs of individualfire and rescue services, the procedures and examples given in this section ofthe Manual represent the basic principles and general practice.

(d) People who respond to incidentsl should be trained and regularly exercised inthe use of standard messages. Standard messages should be brief and conciseand their contents should be limited to that required by local serviceprocedures.

(e) Messages should normally be originated by (or with the authority of) theIncident Manager of the incident and should be sent in their name.

(f) The Incident Manager may not, necessarily transmit messages personally butmay, instead, delegate this duty. When a control point or control unit isfunctioning, all messages should be passed to it for transmission andrecording.

(g) Where practicable, all messages should be written out and checked by theoriginating officer before dispatch.

(h) As soon as a message has been sent, the sender should report back to theoriginating officer repeating the actual wording of the message sent.

(i) Abbreviations should not be used when passing messages orally e.g., watertenders should not be transmitted as 'WrT'. The example messages given inthis section are set out as they should be spoken.

(j) The aids towards clarity of speech as set out in this Manual should be usedwhen using telephones or radio.

1 0 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

2. Assistance messages

An assistance message is one asking for additional appliances, equipment and/orpersonnel, or for special information.

(a) Request for additional pumpsA request for additional pumps should always be in the form 'Make pumpsthe figure quoted always including any pumps already in attendance orpreviously asked for. All pumping appliances should normally be regarded aspumps for this purpose but not special appliances.

For example, if the PDA at a fire consisted of a water tender ladder and apump, and an additional pump was required, the assistance message shouldbe 'Make pumps three'. If, however, the attendance was two pumps and a TLPand two more pumps were required the message would be 'Make pumps four'.

NOTE: Where it is known that persons are trapped or unaccounted for, thewords 'Persons reported' should be added to the first message back,e.g. 'Make pumps four, persons reported'. If assistance is notconsidered necessary this information should be sent as an informativemessage.

When additional pumping appliances are required for a specificpurpose this should be stated e.g., 'Make pumps six including threefor water relay'.

(b) Request for a special applianceWhen asking for a special appliance the form of the request will depend onwhether an appliance of the type required is (i) being requested for the first timeor (ii) is already in attendance.

For (i) it should be 'Two damage control units required', but for (ii) it should be'Make damage control units two.'

(c) Request for additional pumps and for special appliances of a type notasked for previously'From . . . at High Street, Kingston. Make pumps three, turntable ladderrequired.'

(d) Request for additional pumps, additional special appliances and specialappliances of a type not asked for before'From . . . at ValIance Road. Make pumps six, emergency tenders two,turntable ladder and ambulance required.'

(e) Message from an officer-in-charge of an appliance involved in a collisionenroute to an incident asking for assistance'From . . ., Pump B2 Hallam involved in collision junction Cable Street andSutton Street, unable to proceed. Member of the public/brigade injured.Ambulance required.'

(f) Subsequent assistance messagesA developing fire situation may require further assistance messages and thenumber of additional appliances should be added to the total requested in

Appendix 2 11

previous messages. For example, a first assistance message was 'Make pumpsfive'. A further five pumps are needed and a subsequent assistance messagewould be 'Make pumps ten'. If a further five pumps were needed the nextassistance message would be 'Make pumps fifteen'.

(g) Request for attendance of other services representativeWhen the attendance of other services representative is required at an incidentan assistance message is to be sent. For example: 'From . . . at Mount Road.Gas Board required to shut off supply'.

(h) Request for informationWhen further information to assist in dealing with an incident is required, anassistance message should be sent.For example: 'From . . . at Grays Inn Road, spillage of Sulphuric Acid Code 2Pfrom overturned tanker. Request further information'.

3. Informative messages

An informative message is a message giving details of an incident and/or theprogress of operations. Where lives are endangered a message is to be sentimmediately (see 2(a) and 4(i)). All other informative messages can be sent back assoon as is practicable.

(a) A first message should give the following information in the order shown.

(i) The correct address.

(ii) The use to which the building is put unless the character of the building iswell known, e.g., the Town Hall.

(iii) Height of building (number of floors) and the approximate area of the sitewhich it covers. This is expressed in terms of frontage and depth inmetres.

(iv) The part of the building involved.

(v) What is in use, e.g., two jets and BA.

(vi) Tactical Mode in Operation (e.g. DEFENSIVE, OFFENSIVE, orTRANSITIONAL).

A building comprising ground, first and second floors would be described as 'abuilding of three floors'. Basements are not included unless they are involved or likelyto become involved. In this case the description would be 'a building of three floors,basement and sub-basement'.

The approximate area of a building should be stated in the form '... metres bymetres'.

Buildings of a special or unusual type such as oast houses, silos, etc., should beidentified by the name by which they are commonly known e.g., 'a dutch barn 30 mby 10 m', 'a railway signal box 10 m by 5 m', 'a range of buildings of two, three andfour floors covering an area of 100 m by 25 m'.

1 2 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

The location of the fire or other incident should be described by reference to the flooror floors involved e.g., 'first floor alight' (meaning the floor above the ground floor).

(b) If a ship

(i) Type e.g., motor vessel, tanker, barge.(ii) Name.(iii) Where lying.(iv) Gross tonnage.(v) Cargo.(vi) Location and approximate extent of fire.(vii) What is in use e.g., two jets and BA.

(c) Property other than building or shipSuch details of the fire, or other incident, as will give a concise description ofthe property involved and what is in use.

The approximate areas covered by a woodland, heath or crop fire may be givenin hectares or square kilometres or indicated by the approximate length andbreadth of the area in metres or kilometres as appropriate.

(d) GeneralIf all the information cannot be obtained quickly enough, any information whichis readily available should be sent leaving corrections or additional particularsto be sent in later messages. Subsequent informative messages should be toadvise on progress of operations and should be sent at not more than half hourintervals.

Similar messages should be sent from special services.

(e) Fire surroundedWhen the Incident Manager of a fire considers that sufficient personnel andequipment are deployed in such a way as to inhibit any further spread of fire,they can send back the message 'Fire surrounded'.

4. Examples of informative messages

(i) From.. . at Queen's Hotel, The Esplanade. Persons reported.

(ii) From . . . at Corporation Street. Furniture store seven floors 50 metres by20 metres, three upper floors alight, four jets and BA in use, Defensive"DELTA" Mode.

(iii) From. . . at Queen's Hotel. Six floors about 60 metres by 40 metres by 20metres, two upper floors alight. Four jets and BA in use, Offensive"OSCAR"Mode. All persons accounted for.

(iv) From . . . at Hackney road. Paint store four floors, basement and sub-basement about 30 metres by 20 metres. Basement and sub-basementalight, two jets and BA in use, Defensive "DELTA" Mode.

(v) From . . at 21 High Street. Fire not yet located. BA search in progress,Offensive "OSCAR" Mode.

Appendix 2 1 3

(vi) From . . . at Narrow Street. Fire surrounded.

(vii) From. . . at MV Titanic lying at No. 6 Dock. Vessel of 8000 tonne ladenwith general cargo. Numbers one and two holds alight. Two jets and BAin use, Defensive "DELTA" Mode.

(viii) From.. . at Greek Street. Building collapsed following explosion, personstrapped. Jacking gear and crane in use.

(ix) From.. . on M3 motorway at Southwood, southbound carriageway.Multiple vehicle collisions, persons trapped, extrication proceeding. Policeand ambulances in attendance.

(x) From. . . at Stirling railway station. Passenger train derailed, four coachesoverturned down embankment, persons trapped. Rescue operations inprogress.

5. Stop messages

A 'Stop' message (the words 'Stop for ... followed by the address of the incident)indicates that no more mobilising is required and that the personnel and appliancesalready in attendance, or requested, are sufficient, except for any necessary reliefs.A 'Stop' message should be sent from every incident as soon as it is certain that nofurther assistance is needed. 'Stop' messages may, according to individual brigadepractice, be either

(i) confined to the words 'Stop for ... (address only), or

(ii) they may include other brief information as follows.

When a 'Stop' message follows an Informative message a repeat of the descriptiondetails is unnecessary, but the number of jets and/or equipment in use may beincluded if they have changed since the last informative message e.g., 'Stop for(address) ... six jets'. For small fires the 'Stop' message may be combined with aninformative message e.g. 'Stop for ... address. Garage 13 metres by 10 metres atrear. Hose-reel'.

When persons have been reported trapped or unaccounted for, it is not alwayspossible to send the message 'All persons accounted for' before the 'Stop' message.Where appropriate, the words should be added at the end of the 'Stop' message e.g.'Stop for Queen's Hotel, Brighton. Back room top floor damaged by fire. Two hosereels. All persons accounted for'. If there is doubt that persons may still beunaccounted for when the 'Stop' message is sent, the words 'All persons not yetaccounted for' can be added to the 'Stop' message giving a reason if necessary.

Subsequently, when all persons have been accounted for, a further informativemessage should be sent.

1 4 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

6. Sequence of messages

Following the routine 'Mobile' and 'In attendance' messages, where used, thesequence of messages can normally be as follows.

(i) Assistance message.

(ii) Informative message.

(iii) Further assistance and informative messages as necessary.

(iv) Fire surrounded message.

(v) Stop message.

(vi) Further informative messages.

7. Messages using data transmission

Radio data systems facilitate the use of coded messages indicating appliance statusand/or location and may also provide a limited range of 'Stop' message options.

Such coded messages may also be used on voice radio systems to replace full textmessages. Coded messages should not be sent to a mobilising control of a radioscheme other than that to which an appliance is normally attached, unless localarrangements for doing so have been made and the message is, therefore, capableof being understood.

Some radio schemes may also facilitate the transmission, by radio data, of the fulltext of messages from an incident.

Appendix 2 1 5

Appendix 3

ContentsFitness in the Fire and Rescue Service

• Fitness and Competence

Training Programmes

• Benefits• Equipment and training areas• Warm up and cool down procedures• Aerobic fitness• Anaerobic capacity• Muscular endurance• Muscular strength• Flexibility

Monitoring Levels of Fitness

• Pulse• Blood pressure• Body fat• Aerobic capacity• Anaerobic capacity• Strength• Flexibility

Nutrition

• Energy• Hydration

Fitness Training Risk Assessment

Safe Exercise

Appendix 3

IntroductionA firefighter's work can sometimes be physically demanding and require sustained effortfor long periods, often in arduous conditions. Consequently, an appropriate level ofphysical fitness is a key element in ensuring firefighter effectiveness and protecting theirhealth and safety. Low levels of physical activity and fitness are now well recognised asrisk factors for cardiovascular and other diseases. Increasing activity and fitness levelswill help reduce the risk of these occurring as well as improving other aspects of healthand well being, such as stress, depression and weight control.

The purpose of this section is to outline the aspects which should be considered whenspecifying fitness training regimes. Examples of the types of activities and fitnessprogrammes are provided but these are not covered in any great depth as it isappreciated that resources can vary greatly from service to service. Fitness Instructorswill be able to devise appropriate programmes to suit local circumstances.

The need to provide a fitness training regime was identified in "The Physical Fitness ofFiremen" (Joint Committee on Fire Research, Research Report No. 32, 1988). This alsorecommended that fire authorities should establish fire service occupational healthschemes which placed emphasis upon periodic health monitoring and regular fitnessassessments of firefighters. More recently, in "Practical Aptitude Tests For Fire andrescue service Recruits: Final Report" (Ergonomics Research Unit, Robens Institute;Home Office Review Documents and Reports London; TSO, 1997), it was reported thatmeasurements taken during recruit training indicated that practical drills and trainingexercises can impose high levels of physical demand even though they are notperformed at speeds comparable to that observed on the fireground.

Ideally this section would address both role-related fitness to improve reactiveintervention effectiveness and health and safety, and health-related fitness to promotelong term health and well being. However the current absence of information describingand quantifying the role requirements of the various jobs in the fire and rescue serviceprevents this level of detail. Consequently, this section provides the best advicecurrently available to address both aspects of fitness. Further work remains to be doneon setting role-related standards, and once this has been done, more focused physicaltraining programmes can be developed and promulgated.

Fitness in the fire and rescue serviceFirefighters are sometimes called upon to undertake extremely arduous tasks which candemand exertion close to the limits of physical strength and endurance. The physicaldemands of training activities vary in intensity and frequency. If appropriate levels ofphysical fitness are not maintained, unexpected demands on the cardiovascular systemmay cause distress, and sudden over-stretching of muscles may lead to pain andstiffness or, worse still, an injury which may have a permanent effect.

It is therefore in the personal interest of all firefighters to maintain themselves at anappropriate level of physical fitness. This is reflected in the IPDS role maps, whichcontain Units (FF 2, WM 4, EFSM 16) that require all fire and rescue service people to"Take responsibility for effective performance". This requires people to maintain theirhealth and fitness for work. There is also a clear responsibility on the part of linemanagers (WM 5, EFSM14, EFSM15) to support and help their staff to develop andsustain their fitness levels.

2 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

In order to attain this objective, Fire and Rescue Services should foster a positiveorganisational approach to physical fitness and should support their people byencouraging them to maintain and enhance levels of fitness in line with organisationaloccupational health policies.

Fitness Training ProgrammesTo achieve maximum benefits from training, programmes should be designed to takeinto consideration both personal and work-based needs. Within the fire and rescueservice, until there is greater understanding of role-related fitness, the programmeshould aim at all-round fitness with an emphasis on cardiovascular (aerobic) fitness,local muscular endurance and flexibility. Any programme must be of sufficient intensity,duration and frequency to produce noticeable improvements in the components whichare being trained. Fitness programmes should be varied, enjoyable, progressive andprovide participants with a sense of achievement.

A variety of activities can be incorporated into a programme within the constraints of theworking environment. Physical training equipment will add to the scope and varietythough effective programmes can still be devised with basic provision. Qualified fitnessinstructors will be able to devise suitable activities according to available resources.Diagrams 3.1 and 3.2 provide examples of training formats for use with basic equipmentand gym equipment.

Benefits — a well designed training programme will ensure that the body becomesphysically more efficient and is better able to cope with work-related demands. This inturn should help reduce the likelihood of injury and illness and, combined with sensibleeating habits, should provide the following benefits:

• reduced risk of heart and arterial disease• better control of blood pressure• reduced risk of osteoporosis• less unwanted stress and muscular tension• better control of body fat• better sleep patterns• improved concentration levels• improved performance in heat• an increased feeling of well-being• the promotion of team spirit.

Equipment and Training Areas — in designing a training programme, each Service musttake into consideration their available resources with regard to equipment and trainingareas. In purchasing equipment, consideration should be given to the report, "ThePhysical Fitness of Firemen" which reinforces the importance of targeting aerobicfitness. Ideally a dedicated gym should be provided for fitness training. Other areasappropriate in size and location, such as the drill ground or a lecture room, may be usedprovided a suitable and sufficient assessment of risk to the health and safety ofemployees is carried out. It may also be feasible for Fire and rescue services to secureuse of local facilities whilst on duty.

Warm up and Cool Down Procedures — these form an important part of any trainingprogramme and indeed any physical activity. The purpose of the warm up is tophysiologically prepare the body for more strenuous activity through maximising the

Appendix 3 3

range of movement and stimulating neuromuscular responses. The warm up will helpreduce the likelihood of injury and maximise the benefit of the training session. Thepurpose of the cool down is to assist in the elimination of waste and by-products fromthe tissues and to reduce the likelihood of muscular soreness after training has beencompleted. Both the warm up and the cool down should include 4—5 minutes of lightaerobic activity followed by a relative stretching routine.

Aerobic Fitness — aerobic fitness can be improved through using a wide range ofactivities where the demand for oxygen is increased and sustained for a period of time.Suitable activities for achieving this include running, cycling, rowing, swimming,stepping, 'aerobics', and certain games where endurance is demanded. To gain anybenefit, it is recommended that periods of exercise should be sustained for 20 to 60minutes at an intensity of approximately 60—80 % of predicted maximum heart rate (alevel at which an individual could just maintain a conversation). These should beundertaken 3—4 times per week. (See diagrams 3.1 and 3.2 for examples of trainingaerobic fitness within stations.)

Anaerobic Capacity — There is little need for anyone other than athletes to improvetheir anaerobic capacity. It is more appropriate for firefighters to aim to reduce thelikelihood of anaerobic work being required through improving their level of aerobicfitness. It is also inappropriate for such high intensity work to be undertaken whilst on-duty.

Monitoring Levels of FitnessTo assist with the monitoring of fitness levels, there are a number of physiological testswhich can be conducted prior to starting a programme of fitness training. This will allowthe fitness instructor to prescribe exercise at an appropriate level and will allow progressto be monitored. If valid and reliable results are to be produced, it is important to ensurethat those conducting the testing have been properly trained.

1. Pulse — the resting pulse can be provide a rough indicator of cardiovascularfitness. Individuals with good cardiovascular fitness will generally have a much strongerheart with a greater output per beat, resulting in a lower resting heart rate. However, thismeasurement should be used with a degree of caution because the heart rate is reactiveand can be influenced by a range of factors such as stress, tea or coffee, smoking orprior activity levels.

2. Blood Pressure — this should be screened as a standard procedure as partofany physiological testing and can be conducted accurately using credible electronicmonitors. Grading should accord with the Service Occupational Health Policy andappropriate reference should be made based on the results.

3. Body Fat — a high level of body fat can compromise many aspects of fitness andincrease the risk of health problems. Although increased levels of activity will assist inreducing body weight, dietary intervention may also be necessary. Liaison with theOccupational Health Department may be required, particularly in the absence ofexpertise from a qualified Fitness Instructor.

It should be noted that 'body composition' rather than 'body weight' is of concern asthis will provide an indication of the ratio of lean tissue to fat tissue in relation to overallweight. There are a number of methods available for estimating body fat and these can

4 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Diagram 3.1 Example of an Aerobic and LME circuit using basic equipment

1. Step Ups(dense foam mat)

4. Press Ups(small exercise mat)

Appendix 3

9. Star Jumps(dense foam mat)

5

2. Abdominal Curls(small exercise mat)

3. Skipping(dense foam mat)

10. Triceps Dips

5. Rowing Ergo

8. Lunges 7. Scissor Jumps(dense foam mat)

6. Back Raises

Diagram 3.2 Example of an Aerobic and LME circuit using gym equipment

Bicep Curls

6 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

1. Exercise Bike 2. Lat. Pull Downs 3. Rowing Ergo

10. Abdominal Curls(dense foam mat)

MULTIGYM4. Squats

9. Scissor Jumps(dense foam mat)

5. Skipping(dense foam mat)

7. Step Ups(dense foam mat)

6. Bench Press

guide weight control efforts. Administrators should be aware of their limitations andshould select a method appropriate to the individual.

4. Waist-to-Hip Ratio — Recent evidence has indicated that individuals who have apropensity to carry excess body fat on their abdominal area have a much higher risk ofdeveloping coronary heart disease than individuals whose excess body fat is moreevenly distributed.

5. Aerobic Capacity — Maximum oxygen consumption (V02 MAX) is regarded asthe best single measurement for estimating aerobic capacity for general health andfitness. V02 MAX can be estimated using maximal or sub-maximal field tests. Althoughmaximal tests are considered to be more accurate, sub-maximal tests are generallyconsidered to be safer and more practical. Nevertheless, all test protocols are subject toinaccuracies and, in applying standards, cognisance must be taken of the degree oferror inherent with the selected test. Results should be interpreted accordingly.Additionally, it should be recognised that a minority of individuals will obtain very poorresults, particularly with sub-maximal tests, despite being physically fit. A maximal testor laboratory test might allow them to 'prove' their fitness.

6. Strength — strength can be assessed in absolute or relative terms. Within the fireand rescue service, absolute strength is of greater significance as firefighters must beable to lift and handle equipment. It should be borne in mind that the report, "ThePhysical Fitness of Firefighters", highlighted that strength appeared to be adequate inthe vast majority of firefighters.

NutritionEnergy — muscles deplete their stored energy on a daily basis and this can only bereplaced through ingestion of appropriate foodstuffs. Low energy levels will leaveindividuals unable to cope with increased levels of physical activity and the subsequentlow blood sugar will lead to poor concentration, irritability and general tiredness. Thisaspect of nutrition is important for any physical activity, and critical for firefighters in theexecution of their duties. Provision should be made for supplementing energy levels atincidents which are prolonged, particularly where high intensity work has been involved.

Hydration — due to the influence of protective clothing and the possibility of highambient temperatures, firefighters have the potential to lose a significant amount of fluidthrough sweat and respiration. This will effectively reduce blood volume, which can leadto impaired physical performance and potentially life threatening heat related illnesses.Fire and rescue services should ensure that water is readily available throughout theshift, especially at exercises and operational incidents. Following periods of heavysweating this should be supplemented with specific electrolyte drinks to ensureadequate rehydration.

Firefighters should be educated in the importance of good nutrition in maximisingperformance capability. Qualified Fitness Instructors should be able to provideappropriate advice and guidance on good dietary habits.

Appendix 3 7

Fitness Training Risk AssessmentAs with all training activities suitable and sufficient risk assessments must be completedto protect those undertaking the activity or those who may be affected by it.

Generic

1. Scope — this assessment examines the hazards, risks and controls that relate tofitness training. As with all Generic Risk Assessments this provides a starting point forfire and rescue services to conduct their own assessments within the context of localconditions and existing organisational arrangements.

2. Significant Hazards and Risks — the potential for injury to personnel engaged infitness training can be grouped into four key elements:

• inadequate supervision, e.g. wearing jewellery such as necklaces which maycause injury to face and eyes

• insufficient training, e.g. may lead to inappropriate use of the equipment and resultin undue strains

• training area, e.g. uneven ground or projections may cause slips trips and falls• activities, e.g. inappropriate level of activity whilst on duty may cause excessive

fatigue

3. Key Control Measures

As with all other aspects of firefighter training, fitness training regimes should beoperated by "providing the necessary information, instruction, training and supervisionfor ensuring, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety at work ofemployees" (Health & Safety at Work etc Act 1974, Section 2). Reference should also bemade to the Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1992 and theappropriate guidance under this (Work Equipment, Personal Protective Equipment atWork and Manual handling). In accordance with the risk assessment for the activity tobe undertaken, key control measures will include:

3.1 Supervision and Training

• policies and guidance that formalise qualifications and training of the fitnessinstructors/advisers

• simple health assessment including "Safe Exercise Questionnaire" (example atend of section) should be carried out before starting a fitness programme

• individual programme monitoring to ensure safe progression to requisite fitnesslevel

• provision of educational material and safety information• adequate levels of supervision and training for the activity to be undertaken• provision of clothing that allows unrestricted movement and ventilation• suitability of footwear — should be in a good state of repair with a grip pattern on

the soles• jewellery removed prior to exercise — tape should be readily available for covering

rings or other jewellery that cannot be removed

8 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

3.2 Training Area

• appropriate size and dimensions• suitability of surface, particularly those outside a normal gym setting• dense foam matting used where impact activities are to be undertaken on

non-sprung flooring• testing, annual servicing and routine maintenance of all physical training

equipment• safe stowage, moving and re-assembly of equipment by a competent person• suitable material to remove perspiration from the equipment• drinking water available and encouraged during exercise sessions

3.3 Activity

• appropriate rules and regulations• activity always be preceded by a "warm up" and finish with a "cool down" period• modified games treated as exercise• sensible training weights established for each exercise before it is started

Appendix 3 9

Safe Exercise (medical history) QuestionnaireUndertaking controlled exercise (for training or as part of an exercisetest) under the supervision of a trained and competent instructor, is veryunlikely to be harmful. Very occasionally however, there is an underlyingmedical problem, which will increase the medical risks of exercising.If you can honestly answer "No" to all the following questions, it is quiteunlikely that you have any such underlying problem. If, however, you haveexperienced one or more of the symptoms listed, it will be wise to have themchecked out by a doctor before the exercise or testing is undertaken. Inthe majority of cases, such symptoms will not be due to serious underlyingmedical problems. Please answer honestly. Ticking yes will not disadvantageyou but a dishonest answer may put your health (or even your life)at risk.

Do you ever experience: Yes No

Pain in the chest during or following exertion or stress.

Palpitations (fluttering in the chest, missed beats or extra beats) duringor following exertion or stress.

Unexpected shortness of breath during or following exertion or stress.

Dizziness during or following exertion or stress.

Unexpected fatigue during or following exertion or stress.

Pain in the neck, ear, jaw or arm during or following exertion or stress.

Unusual fatigue during or following exertion or stress.

Are you currently:

Experiencing back or other joint pain.

Receiving medication for blood pressure, stress or heart condition.

The above answers are accurate and honest. I understand that inaccurateanswers may put my safety at risk.

Signed ____________________ Date _/_L

1 0 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Appendix 4

First Aid at Work Training/First Aid at Work andTrauma Care Management/First Responder orSimilar Composite Training Course

IntroductionRegulation 3 of the Health & Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981 states "An employershall provide, or ensure that there are provided, such equipment and facilities as areadequate and appropriate in the circumstances for enabling first aid to be rendered tohis employees if they are injured or become ill at work".

These Regulations are supported by an Approved Code of Practice and Guidance inFirst Aid at Work (ISBN 0-7176-1050-0, available from HSE books) and published inMarch 1997.

The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) requires the First Aid Approval and MonitoringSections (FAAMS) to approve and monitor organisations wishing to become a providerof First Aid at Work (FAW) training.

The Regulations do not oblige employers to provide first aid arrangements for anyoneother than their own employees. However, fire and rescue services in providinghumanitarian services to the public may wish to make some extra provision althoughthere is no legal obligation for them to do so.

N.B. Employers should be aware that the compulsory element of employers' liabilityinsurance does not cover litigation resulting to first aid to non-employees.

Fire and Rescue Services will be able to meet the requirements of the above regulationsby attaining either a First Aid at Work qualification or a composite First Aid atWork/Trauma Care Management or First Aid at Work/First Responder or similarcomposite course qualification.

Such courses must however incorporate the essential elements of the First Aid at Worksyllabus as set out in the HSE publication (Guidance for Training Organisations,ISBN 0-7176-1347-X, available from HSE books) and published in March 1997.

This approach allows fire and rescue services maximum flexibility in deciding how tomeet the requirements of the Regulations while allowing them to move into compositeFirst Aid at Work/Trauma Care Management, First Aid at Work/First Responder trainingor similar if they so wish.

Appendix 4

Training CoursesHealth & Safety Executive Requirements

Training Contact Times

1. Minimum 24 hours for a Standard First Aid at Work course (including finalassessment) to be completed within a 13 week period and each session must last atleast 2 hours.

2. Minimum 12 hours for refresher, First Aid at Work training (including finalassessment) and each session must last at least 2 hours.

Syllabus

Syllabus to include the following elements as listed in the "Guidance for TrainingOrganisations"

(a) Communication and giving out responsibility in an emergency.

(b) Resuscitation.

(c) Managing someone who is unconscious.

(d) Treating and controlling bleeding.

(e) Treating burns and scalds.

(f) Treating injuries to bones, muscles and joints.

(g) Treating minor injuries.

(h) Treating shock.

(i) Treating eye injuries and rinsing out eyes.

(j) Poisons, gases and fumes.

(k) Moving injured people.

(I) Recognising illness.

(m) Simple record keeping, contents of first aid box, buying first aid supplies andbeing familiar with duties of employers.

(n) Personal hygiene, cross infection when treating wounds.

Assessment

When the training is completed participants should be able to use the appropriate skillsrelated to the topics covered during the training course.

An assessment should be carried out by two suitably qualified trainers or assessors whohave not been involved in the teaching (who may be members of the service).

2 Fire Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

The assessment should look at:

1. The ability to act safely, promptly and effectively when an emergencysituation arises.

2. The ability to carry out cardio-pulmonary resuscitation promptly andeffectively.

3. The ability to carry out first aid safely, promptly and effectively to somebodywho is unconscious.

4. The ability to carry out first aid safely, promptly and effectively to somebodywho is wounded or bleeding.

Criteria for Trainers

A First Aid at Work trainer must be able to demonstrate the following:

1. Competence in training (appropriate EMPNTO Learning and DevelopmentUnits).

2. Competence in First Aid.

Competence in training should be demonstrated by a formal training qualification andcurrent portfolio evidence of workplace performance.

Competence in First Aid should be demonstrated by a current First Aid at Workcertificate and current portfolio evidence of workplace performance.

Criteria for Assessors

A First Aid at Work assessor must be able to demonstrate the following:

1. Competence in assessment

2. Competence in First Aid

Competence in assessment should be demonstrated by suitable assessmentqualifications and current portfolio evidence of workplace performance.

Competence in First Aid should be demonstrated by a current First Aid at Workcertificate and portfolio evidence that shows how the person has used current skillsover the last 12—24 months.

Certificates

In the past fire and rescue services have issued a variety of certificates using a range ofterminology in relation to First Aid at Work training. Any certificate issued must make itclear that the course meets the requirements of the Health & Safety (First Aid)Regulations 1981.

Fire and rescue services may also include the composite course titles First Aid atWork/Trauma Care Management or First Aid at Work/first Responder Training whereapplicable or simply First Aid at Work.

Appendix 4 3

Approval of Courses

Fire and rescue services will need to gain separate approval for their own course,although if they follow the example of the "Trauma Care Management" (Strathclyde)or "Co-Responder" qualifications then the medical/technical elements of HSE'srequirements are likely to be met.

Fire and rescue services will need, however, to satisfy HSE that appropriate and suitableassessment, verification and administration procedures are in place.

Contacting HSE — The role of FAAMS

All applications for approval of First Aid at Work training are processed by, and shouldbe sent to, the First Aid Approval and Monitoring Sections (FAAMS), Quay House,Quay Street, Manchester. M3 3JB. Telephone 0161 9528276/8326/8322.

If you would like further information contact the First Aid Approvals and MonitoringSection at the above address.

4 Fire Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Appendix 5

Operational Role InsigniaIncident command is built upon best practice in the management of emergencyincidents and has been developed throughout the UK over many years. The currentsystems, procedures and practices are based on the 'Safe Person Concept' andrepresent good practice critical to the health and safety of fire service personnel. A keyelement of which is the safe and competent command of operational incidents.

The command system does not exist in isolation but forms part of comprehensivearrangements as detailed in the fire service manuals. The use of insignia, identifyingeach Role, is an essential component in the safe and effective command of operationalincidents.

With the growing need for cross border operations, particularly in the context of NewDimension, all UK Fire and Rescue Services will follow the same Role identificationsystem. It is important to be able to identify the senior fire and rescue service officerpresent, particularly for fire and rescue crews and other emergency services or agenciesattending the incident.

The helmet markings and collar insignia are easily identifiable and interpreted. In therole-based system the following insignia apply only to operational Personal ProtectiveEquipment [PPE]

NOTE: In order to obtain a clear visual distinction between yellow and whitehelmets under all lighting conditions, combs of all white helmets should bepainted black.

Appendix 5

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Appendix 6

Manual Handling

Structure and function of the spineBack injuriesGeneral requirementsA guide to safe lifting technique

Appendix 6

Manual HandlingReferences: AQ and "A Guide to Managers" Health & Safety Fire Service GuideVolume 2.

More than a third of all over-three-day injuries reported each year arise from manualhandling (the supporting or transporting of loads by hand or bodily force). Of particularconcern is the incidence of back injuries. Somewhere between two and three quartersof individuals will suffer from back pain at some point in their working life. This hasenormous implications for both the brigade in terms of sickness absence and theindividual in terms of quality of life. Where the need for manual handling cannot beavoided, it is in the interest of both parties to minimise these risks so far as isreasonably practicable.

There are three key types of risk:

• Overexertion — the load is beyond the individual's capacity• Cumulative damage — repetitive lifting, static holding, stooping actions, etc• Accident — a true accident or in combination with one of the above

The following information is to support brigades' management of manual handlingoperations. However, a basic understanding of the anatomy of the spine, and howinjuries occur, will help in recognising the opportunities for risk reduction.

1. Structure and function of the spine — The spine is a flexible column whichconnects the head to the pelvis, supports the rib cage and protects the spinal cord. It ismade up of bony units known as the vertebrae which are attached to each other bymuscles, ligaments and intervertebral discs. The discs are made from a tough fibroustissue with soft centres, which absorb water from the surrounding tissue. Thus they arepre-loaded structures, similar to car tyres that re-inflate when the body is reclined.Combined with the natural curves of the spine, the discs provide functional mobilityand absorb compression forces.

2. Back Injuries — Injuries may occur to the bone, the joints, the soft tissues, thediscs or the nerves. The most common cause of back pain is muscle and other softtissue coming under tension. This usually results from accommodating excessive forcescaused by poor lifting techniques. This can lead to pain, muscular spasm, inflammation,immobility and may affect the other structures. Poor technique also puts the discs understrain causing micro-tears to their tissue. This is particularly so with movements whichinvolve both bending and twisting at the same time. An accumulation of these micro-tears will cause scar tissue which allows a pathway for the central nucleus to 'slip' out.This can then cause immobility and place pressure on the nerves which arise from thatarea. It should be borne in mind by instructors when preparing their lesson plans thateven light loads (frequently handled) have cumulative effects, especially when thisinvolves bending and twisting, or static loading. In addition, research has indicated thatthere is an increased risk of low back pain with bending forward in the early morning,primarily because of the increased fluid content in the intervertebral discs at this time.

2 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

3. General Requirements — the Manual Handling Operations Regulations requireemployers to:

• Avoid the need for hazardous manual handling as far as is reasonably practicable.• Assess the risk of injury from any hazardous manual handling that cannot be

avoide.• Reduce the risk of injury from hazardous manual handling as far as is reasonably

practicable.

They also require employers to provide:

• Mechanical Aids to avoid manual handling operations where there is a risk ofinjury and it is reasonably practicable to do so.

• Information on the loads to be moved/carried to include, where possible:the weight of the load.the centre of gravity of the load.

• Solutions — the preventive measures that a brigade may adopt will generally be interms of:L1 equipment provision.

making personnel aware of the risk to their health in trying to lift loads whichare too heavy for them.training in lifting and handling techniques.

A simple ergonomic approach will lead to a safer system of work by ensuring anunobstructed work area, and wherever possible providing smaller and lighter loads, andmaking use of steps and platforms to allow lifts from more convenient heights. Sufficientrest and recovery times should also be provided. To complement a safer system ofwork, rather than a substitute for it, lifting technique has an important role in reducingthe risk of manual handling injury.

4. A Guide to Safe Lifting Technique — The following provides a basic guidance tosafe lifting technique in ideal circumstances. These may have to be adapted to suitother situations, though the basic principles should remain the same. Most importantly,these principles should be applied to activities where it is assumed we should leastneed them e.g. picking up a dropped coin or a newspaper from the floor.

The Health & Safety Executive guidance on Manual Handling Operations Regulations1992 acknowledges the likelihood in the fire service for "...well-intentionedimprovisation...". This recognises that it is sometimes difficult to apply "correcttechnique" in an emergency. Environmental problems such as noise, heat, lighting andPPE worn will also all influence individual capacities. However, it is important thatfirefighters are encouraged to adopt safe techniques whenever working in a controlledenvironment, as this will increase the likelihood of adopting similar techniques on theincident ground.

ASSESS — nudge or push with the foot to give an idea of the weight. This will allow thebrain to recruit the number of fibres it thinks will be required for the lift. If the load feelstoo heavy, it probably is too heavy, so consideration should be given to sensation ofeffort both before and during the lift.

FEET — placement is the key to safe lifting. Eliminate obstacles which need to bereached over or into. Where possible one foot should be placed beneath or beside theload and one behind. Both feet should be turned out to avoid the knees getting in the

Appendix 6 3

way. The heaviest part of the load should be closest to the body. Where it is necessaryto move a load outside the limits of the foot base, the risk of loss of balance (andsubsequent need to overstrain to regain balance) is limited by lifting and movingtowards (rather than away from) a balanced position.

KNEES — relax the knees and sink down smoothly. The back heel will lift naturally withmost people. Try to keep within the "optimum power range" of 60—90 degrees, initiatingthe power from the less bent leading leg. This will ensure the use of the relatively strongleg muscles and is preferable to using the back.

GRIP — avoid a parallel grip as this is weak and requires enormous force. Wherepossible, place one hand on the outermost top corner. Lean the load away and placethe other hand under diagonally opposite bottom corner.

NECK/HEAD — adopt a natural position looking in the direction of travel as you lift andmove off.

LOAD CLOSE — bring the load close to the body as soon as possible, tucking theelbows close to the side.

BACK — the back will assume the correct position if the above procedures are adopted.

PUTTING DOWN — to put a load down simply reverse the procedure. Place one footforward, toes pointing to 10 o'clock or 2 o'clock. Relax the knees and sink downsmoothly, then place the load on the ground.

KINETIC LIFTING — uses the kinetic energy of the body in moving the load thus makinglifting easier and safer. For example, with adequate training and a relatively light load, itis sometimes possible to move a load horizontally by using its own momentum, andthen swing the load upward with relatively little effort.

TEAM LIFT — predetermined commands for lifting should be used. Team membersshould be aware of each other's strength and fitness, and the lift managed accordingly.The capacity of a team is not the sum of the individuals' capacities. A team of two isapproximately two thirds of the sum of the individual capacities. For a team of three thisis reduced to approximately one half of the individual capacities.

4 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Appendix 7

Signals

ContentsIntroduction

Marshalling Vehicles

Pumping Signals

• Examples of when visual signals should not be used

Evacuation of Premises

Lifting Signals — Mechanical Handling

• General Signals• Vertical movements• Horizontal movements• Danger

Appendix 7

2 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Introduction

In all operational situations, the Incident Commander must establish arrangementsfor communications. Incidents often involve fire fighters separated by distance, eitherhorizontal or vertical, and the communication system must be effective in thesecircumstances. One other factor, common in rescue situations, is the attendance ofother agencies and emergency services. Communications must be established to allowthe Incident Commander effective control over all participating services and to ensureefficient inter-agency working.

A backup to the main communication system should be considered and this is essentialfor safety critical tasks. A backup system may involve hand signals, line signals oranother method, but all personnel involved must understand whichever system isselected.

Appendix 7 3

Marshalling VehiclesDriving in a confined area is potentially hazardous. In particular, the reversing of vehiclesin areas that are often congested can lead to accidents.

The driver of any vehicle is responsible for the care and safety of that vehicle at all timesand in particular should ensure that:

+ before leaving the driving seat the handbrake is firmly on and the gear lever is inthe correct position;

• before driving off the appliance equipment is correctly stowed, all doors and rollershutters are properly closed and the power take-off is disengaged;

• before reversing, a firefighter who can be seen by the driver is stationed at the rearof the vehicle to ensure that the area is clear and safe. It must be rememberedthat verbal signals may not be heard so a suitable hand-signal should be pre-arranged. The banksman must always remain in view of the driver. The signalsrecommended are shown in Figures 1 to 5.

IRRESPECTIVE OF AUDIBLE REVERSING ALARMS THE SAMEPROCEDURE SHOULD BE FOLLOWED.

• on completion of a drill the appliance engine is switched off.

4 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

1 ADVANCE

Use the right hand andforearm vertically, palmaway from driver drawingthe vehicle onwards andcalling "come on"if necessary.

IFigure 1

2 REVERSEUse both hands andtorearms with palmslacing the driverpushing the vehicle

back and cailing"go on ii necessary

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Pumping Signals

Order Arm Signal

Water on The arm is raised sideways over the head to its fullest extentand lowered smartly to the side. This signal should never begiven until the branchholder is ready and prepared.

Increase As for "Water on" but repeated several times. Pump operators

pressure should increase pressure by 1 bar, unless otherwise instructed.

Reduce One arm is extended horizontally from the shoulder and the

pressure other arm is raised vertically. The pressure should be reducedby 1 bar, unless otherwise instructed.

Knock off The right arm is extended horizontally, swung across the chestand back again.

Make up all Both arms are extended outwards and dropped to the sides.

equipment

All firefighters The right arm is swung round the head and the hand is placedreport to the flat on the head.initiator

Acknowledgement All visual signals should be acknowledged by repeating theof signals signal.

Whenever practicable the best way to convey orders is to send radio messages directto the pump operator. Alternatively a messenger could be used.

There are occasions when messages or commands may be passed by signal — equallythere are times when they could result in confusion or danger.

Examples of when visual signals should NOT be used include:

• when two or more pumps are at work and a signal that is intended for one pumpoperator might be obeyed by another pump operator;

• instructions to raise or lower pressure when more than one branch is working fromthe same pump;

• at night or in poor visibility.

6 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Appendix 7 7

Figure 1 Pumping signal — Water on/increasepressure.

Figure 2 Pumping signal — Reduce pressure.

I - -

Figure 3 Pumping signal — Knock off. Figure 4 Pumping signal — Make up all gear

Evacuation of Premises SignalsThe signal recommended for the evacuation of premises is repeated short blasts on awhistle of the Acme "Thunderer" type. Whistles should be used only for the standardevacuation signal and NOT for any other purpose.

All firefighters hearing repeated short blasts from a whistle should make their way asquickly as possible out of the premises, but the withdrawal should be orderly so that adangerous situation is avoided.

8 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

I *:- jlçi

Figure 5 Report to me.

Lifting Signals — Mechanical HandlingThe following hand signals have been re-generated from Part 4 of the Schedule to theHealth and Safety (Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996. The aim of this appendix is toassist Fire and Rescue Services in standardising the hand signals used where liftingoperations are taking place.

General Signals

Meaning:STARTAttention start of command.

Description:Both arms are extended horizontally withthe palms facing forward.

Meaning:STOPInterruption. End of movement.

Description:The right arm points upwards with thepalm facing forwards.

Meaning:END of the operation.

Description:Both hands are clasped at chest height.

Appendix 7 9

Vertical movements

Meaning:RAISE

Description:The right arm points upwards, with thepalm facing forward and slowly makes acircle.

Meaning:LOWER

Description:The right arm points downwards, with thepalm facing inwards and slowly makes acircle.

Meaning:VERTICAL DISTANCE

Description:The hands indicate the relevant distance.

1 0 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Horizontal movements

Meaning:MOVE FORWARDS

Description:Both arms are bent with the palms facingupwards, and the forearms make slowmovements towards the body.

Meaning:MOVE BACKWARDS

Description:Both arms are bent with the palms facingdownwards and the forearms make slowmovements away from the body.

Meaning:RIGHT to the signalman's

Description: The right arm is extendedmore or less horizontally with the palmfacing downwards and slowly makessmall movements to the right.

Appendix 7 11

Meaning:LEFT to the signalman's

Description: The left arm is extendedmore or less horizontally with the palmfacing downwards and slowly makessmall movements to the left.

Meaning:HORIZONTAL DISTANCE

Description: The hands indicate therelevant distance.

1 2 Fire and Rescue Service Manual — Foundation Training and Development

Danger

Meaning:DANGER Emergency Stop.

Description:Both arms point upwards with the palmsfacing forwards.

QUICK All movements faster.

SLOW All movements slower.

Appendix 7 13

Appendix 8 Form TRA 1

Scenario Based Training Event Risk Assessment

TRAINING AIMS

TRAINING OBJECTIVES

LOCATION

PERSONS AT RISK (TICK RELEVANT BOXES)

TRAINEES SUPERVISORS SAFETY OFFICERS NON FIREAND RESCUESERVICE

TRAINEE FIRE AND RESCUESERVICE INSTRUCTOR

FIRE AND RESCUESERVICE INSTRUCTOR

/DEVELOPMENT MANAGER / MANAGER

COMPETENT / CREW/WATCHMANAGER

CREW/WATCHMANAGER

CREW/WATCHMANAGER

CREW/WATCHMANAGER

Level of RiskSIGNIFICANT HAZARDS and RISKS H M L CONTROL MEASURES REQUIRED

BEFORE

DURING

AFTER

NAME OF ASSESSOR:

DATE OF ASSESSMENT:

Appendix 8