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WAC
296-305-02011 Body armor.
Fire departments that use protective body armor shall comply
with the following:
(1) The fire department shall develop and have in place written
guidelines for the care, use and maintenance of the protective
body armor in conjunction with the manufacturer's recommendations.
(2) All protective body armor shall meet or exceed National Institute
of Justice NIF 0101.03, Threat Level II requirements, April 1987
edition, which is incorporated by reference (or shall be demonstrated
by the employer to be equally effective), for both wet and dry
ballistic performance.
(3) Body armor shall be correctly fitted following the manufacturer's
recommendations and shall not be used beyond the manufacturer's
warranty.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010,
[49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-02011, filed
5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]
WAC
296-305-02013 Foot protection for structural fire fighting.
(1) Protective footwear purchased after the effective date of
this standard shall comply with the 1992 edition of NFPA, Standard
on Protective Footwear for Structural Fire Fighting 1974 or the
1997 edition of NFPA, Standard on Protective Ensemble for Structural
Fire Fighting 1971.
(2) Fire departments shall establish written policy and procedure,
care, use, maintenance, and retirement criteria for footwear in
conjunction with the manufacturer's recommendations.
Note: Fire departments should establish
cleaning and drying instruction including applicable warning regarding
detergents, soaps, cleaning additives and bleaches for protective
footwear.
(3) Fire fighter footwear may be resoled but the footwear upon
resoling shall meet the requirements specified in this section.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040.
99-05-080 (Order 98-14), § 296-305-02013, filed 02/17/99, effective
06/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and
[49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-02013, filed 5/10/96, effective
1/1/97.]
WAC
296-305-02015 Head protection.
(1) Fire fighters who engage in or are exposed to the hazards
of structural fire fighting shall be provided with and use helmets
that meet the requirements of NFPA 1972, Standard on Helmets for
Structural Fire Fighting, 1987 edition.
(2) Helmets purchased thirty days after the adoption of this
chapter shall meet the requirements of the 1992 edition of NFPA,
Standard on Helmets for Structural Fire Fighting 1972 or the 1997
edition of NFPA, Standard on Protective Ensemble for Structural
Fire Fighting 1971.
(3) Fire departments shall establish a written policy and procedure
for the care, use, maintenance, and retirement criteria for helmets.
(4) Helmets shall be provided with face shields or goggles.
(5) Helmet accessories shall not interfere with the function
of the helmet or its components parts and shall not degrade the
helmets performance.
(6) Helmets shall be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's
recommendations. No modifications shall be made without prior
written approval from the manufacturer.
(7) Fire fighters shall follow the manufacturer's recommendations
regarding cleaning, painting, marking, storage, and frequency
and details of inspection.
Note: Helmets should be stored at room temperature
and out of direct sunlight.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040.
99-05-080 (Order 98-14), § 296-305-02015, filed 02/17/99, effective
06/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and
[49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-02015, filed 5/10/96, effective
1/1/97.]
WAC
296-305-02017 Personal alert safety system (PASS) protection.
(1) Each fire fighter working in a hazardous area requiring the
use of SCBA shall wear and use a PASS device. PASS devices shall
meet the requirements of NFPA, Standard on Personal Alert Safety
Systems (PASS) for Fire Fighters 1982, 1993 edition. (See WAC
296-305-07001 through 296-305-07019 for wildland fire fighting
application.)
(2) Each PASS device shall be tested routinely to ensure it is
ready for use and immediately prior to each use, and shall be
maintained in accordance with the manufacturers' instructions.
(3) Fire departments shall provide written procedures for the
use of PASS devices.
(4) Compliance with this section shall occur no later than two
years after the effective date of this chapter.
Note: Fire departments should provide one
spare PASS device for each ten units in service. If a department
has less than ten devices they should have one spare.
(5) Fire departments shall establish a written procedure for
the care, use, maintenance, and repair of PASS devices in conjunction
with manufacturer's recommendations.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010,
[49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-02017, filed
5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]
WAC
296-305-02019 Life safety ropes, harnesses, and hardware protection.
(1) All life safety ropes, harnesses, and hardware used by fire
departments shall meet the applicable requirements of NFPA 1983,
Standard on Fire Service Life Safety Rope, Harness, and Hardware,
1990 edition.
(2) Ropes used to support the weight of members or other persons
during rescue, fire fighting, other emergency operations, or during
training evolutions shall be life safety rope.
(3) Life safety rope used for rescue at fires, or other emergency
incidents, or for training, shall be permitted to be reused if
inspected before, and after, each such use in accordance with
the manufacturer's instructions and provided:
(a) The rope has not been visually damaged by the exposure
to heat, direct flame impingement, chemical exposure, or abrasion.
(b) The rope has not been subjected to any impact load.
(c) The rope has not been exposed to chemical liquids, solids,
gases, mists, or vapors of any materials, known to deteriorate
rope.
(d) If the rope used for rescue at fires or other emergency
incidents, or for training, has been subjected to (a), (b),
or (c) of this section, or fails the visual inspection, it shall
be destroyed after such use.
(e) If there is any question regarding the serviceability of
the rope after consideration of the above, the safe course of
action shall be taken and the rope shall be placed out of service.
See Appendix B.
(f) Rope inspection shall be conducted by qualified inspectors
in accordance with rope inspection procedures established and
recommended as adequate by the rope manufacturer to assure rope
is suitable for reuse.
(4) Fire departments shall establish written procedures for the
use of life safety ropes and rescue operations utilizing harnesses
and ropes.
(5) Records shall provide a history of each life safety and training
rope. The minimum information to be reflected in the record of
history of life safety and training ropes shall include: Date
of manufacturer, organization serial number, use list to include
inspectors name and space for comments.
(6) Rope used for training evolutions shall be designated as
training rope and shall be permitted to be reused if inspected
before and after each use in accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions.
(7) The destruction of a rope means that it shall be removed
from service and altered in such a manner that it could not be
mistakenly used as a life safety rope. This includes disposal
or removal of labels and cutting into short lengths to be used
for utility purposes.
(8) All repairs to life safety harnesses shall be done by an
authorized manufacturer's representative, or the manufacturer.
Note: See WAC 296-305-06003 (3), (4), (5),
and (6) for the testing of life belts, ropes, and harnesses.
(9) Class I safety harnesses shall be used for fire fighter attachment
to ladders and aerial devices.
(10) Class II and Class III life safety harnesses shall be utilized
for fall arrest and rappelling operations.
(11) Rescue ropes shall be padded when deployed over edges or
rough surfaces.
Note: See WAC 296-305-05005 for rope rescue
applications.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010,
[49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-02019, filed
5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]
WAC
296-305-02501 Emergency medical protection.
(1) Fire fighters who perform emergency medical care or otherwise
may be exposed to blood or other body fluids shall be provided
with emergency medical face protection devices, and emergency
medical garments that meet the applicable requirements of NFPA,
Standard on Protective Clothing for Emergency Medical Operations
1999, 1992 edition.
Note: Prior to purchase, fire departments
should request the technical data package required in NFPA 1999,
1992 edition, in order to compare glove and garment performance
data. Departments reviewing these packages should ensure a relative
ranking of the performance data before they purchase in order
to provide the best performance of the EMS personal protective
clothing.
(2) Fire fighters shall don emergency medical gloves prior to
initiating any emergency patient care.
(3) Fire fighters shall don emergency medical garments and emergency
medical face protection devises prior to any patient care during
which splashes of body fluids can occur such as situations involving
spurting blood or childbirth.
Note: Fire fighter turnout gear and gloves
with vapor barriers may be used in lieu of emergency medical gloves
and garments
(4) Contaminated emergency medical garments, emergency medical
face protection, gloves, devices, and emergency medical gloves
shall be cleaned and disinfected, or disposed of, in accordance
with chapter 296-823 WAC, Occupational exposure to bloodborne
pathogens.
(5) Fire departments shall establish a designated infection (exposure)
control officer who shall ensure that an adequate infection control
plan is developed and all personnel are trained and supervised
on the plan.
(6) The infection control officer shall be responsible for establishing
personnel exposure protocols so that a process for dealing with
exposures is in writing and available to all personnel.
(7) The infection control officer or his/her designee will function
as a liaison between area hospitals and fire department members
to provide notification that a communicable disease exposure is
suspected or has been determined by hospital medical personnel.
The department infection control officer will institute the established
exposure protocols immediately after report of an exposure. The
infection control officer shall follow the confidentiality requirements
of chapter 246-100 WAC and the medical protocol requirements of
chapter 296-802
WAC.
(8) Fire departments shall have a written infection (exposure)
control plan which clearly explains the intent, benefits, and
purpose of the plan. The written document must cover the standards
of exposure control such as establishing the infection control
officer and all members affected; education and training; HBV
vaccination requirements; documentation and record keeping; cleaning/disinfection
of personnel and equipment; and exposure protocols.
(9) Policy statements and standard operating procedure guidelines
shall provide general guidance and specific regulation of daily
activities. Procedures shall include delegation of specific roles
and responsibilities, such as regulation of infection control,
as well as procedural guidelines for all required tasks and functions.
(10) Fire departments shall establish a records system for members
health and training.
(11) Fire fighters shall be trained in the proper use of PPE,
exposure protection, post exposure protocols, disease modes of
transmission as it related to infectious diseases.
(12) Infectious disease programs shall have a process for monitoring
fire fighters compliance with established guidelines and a means
for correcting noncompliance.
(13) Fire department members shall be required to annually review
the infectious disease plan, updates, protocols, and equipment
used in the program.
(14) Fire departments shall comply with chapter 296-823 WAC,
Occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens, in its entirety.
(15) Tuberculosis (TB) exposure and respiratory protection requirements.
(a) Fire fighters shall wear a particulate respirator (PR)
when entering areas occupied by individuals with suspected or
confirmed TB, when performing high risk procedures on such individuals
or when transporting individuals with suspected or confirmed
TB in a closed vehicle.
(b) A NIOSH-approved, 95% efficient particulate air respirator
is the minimum acceptable level of respiratory protection.
(i) Fit tests are required.
(ii) Fit tests shall be done in accordance with chapter 296-842
WAC.
Note 1: Emergency-response personnel
should be routinely screened for tuberculosis at regular intervals.
The tuberculin skin test is the only method currently available
that demonstrates infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis
(M. tuberculosis) in the absence of active tuberculosis.
Note 2: If possible, the rear windows
of a vehicle transporting patients with confirmed, suspected,
or active tuberculosis should be kept open, and the heater
or air conditioner set on a noncirculating cycle.
Additional References:
Chapter 296-823 WAC, Occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens.
WAC 296-62-08001(3), Exposure Control.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010,
.040, .050, and .060. 05-03-093 (Order 04-41), § 296-305-02501,
filed 01/18/05, effective 03/01/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010,
.040, .050, and .060. 03-09-110 (Order 02-29), § 296-305-02501,
filed 04/22/03, effective 08/01/03. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010,
.040, .050. 99-10 (Order 98-10), § 296-305-02501, filed 05/04/99,
effective 09/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050
and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-02501, filed 5/10/96, effective
1/1/97.]
WAC
296-305-03001 Hazardous materials protection.
(1) Structural fire fighting protective clothing shall not be
used as primary protection for hazardous material incidents except
as noted in the current edition of the Department of Transportation
Emergency Response guidebook, which is incorporated by reference
or shall be demonstrated by the employer to be equally effective.
(2) Fire departments shall use the technical data package provided
by the clothing manufacturer when selecting the hazardous chemical
protection.
(a) The approach to selecting personal protective clothing
must encompass an ensemble of clothing items that are integrated
to provide a level of protection and the ability to carry out
emergency response activities.
(b) The following is a check list of components that may form
the chemical protective ensemble:
(i) Protective clothing (suits, coveralls, hoods, gloves,
boots)
(ii) Respiratory equipment (SCBA)
(iii) Cooling system (ice vest, air circulation, water circulation)
(iv) Head protection
(v) Inner garments
(vi) Outer protection (overgloves, overboots, flashcovers)
(3) Hazardous chemical protective equipment shall be classified
by performance and for the purpose of this chapter are defined
as:
(a) Vapor-Protective Suits (Level “A”)
(b) Liquid Splash-Protective Suits (Level “B”)
(c) Support Function Protective Suits
(4) Fire department personnel involved in hazardous materials
incident shall be protected against potential chemical hazards.
Chemical protective clothing shall be selected and used to protect
the respiratory system, skin, eyes, face, hands, feet, head, and
body.
(5) Vapor protective and liquid splash-protective suits shall
completely cover both the wearer and the wearer's breathing apparatus.
Wearing a SCBA or other respiratory equipment outside the suit
subjects this equipment to the chemically contaminated environment,
increasing possible failure potentials and decontamination problems.
(6) Fire fighters who engage in operations likely to result in
significant exposure to vapors that can reasonably be presumed
harmful by way of dermal exposure shall have available and make
appropriate use of vapor protective suits. Vapor protective suits
shall meet the requirements of NFPA, Standard on Vapor Suits for
Hazardous Chemical Emergencies in 1991, 1990 edition, with the
single exception that suits meeting all but the flammability standard
may only be worn in atmospheres verified by means of appropriate
air monitoring to be at no more than 10% of the lower explosive
limit (LEL).
(7) Prior to the use of vapor protective suits, liquid splash-protective
suits or support function protective suits, the department shall
consult the technical data package to assure that the garment
is appropriate for the specific hazardous chemical emergency.
(8) Vapor protective suits and liquid splash-protective suits
shall not be used alone for any fire fighting applications or
for protection from radiological, biological, or cryogenic agents
or in flammable or explosive atmospheres.
(9) Fire fighters who engage in operations or who are exposed
to known chemicals in liquid-splash chemical environments during
hazardous chemical material emergencies shall be provided with,
and shall use, liquid splash-protective suits. Liquid splash-protective
suits shall meet the requirements of NFPA, Standard on Liquid-Splash
Protective Suits for Hazardous Chemical Emergencies 1992, 1991
edition.
(10) Liquid splash-protective suits shall not be used when operations
are likely to result in significant exposure to chemicals or specific
chemical mixtures with known or suspected carcinogenicity as indicated
by any one of the following documents if it can reasonably be
expected that fire fighters in vapor protective suits would be
significantly better protected:
(a) N. Irving Sax, Dangerous Properties of Industrial Chemicals,
current edition.
(b) NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards, current edition.
(c) U.S. Coast Guard Chemical Hazard Response Information System
(CHRIS), Volumes 13, Hazardous Chemical Data.
(11) Liquid splash-protective suits shall not be used when operations
are likely to result in significant exposure to chemicals or specific
chemical mixtures with skin toxicity notations as indicated by
the American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH),
Threshold Limit Values and Biological Exposure Indices for 1988-1989
if it can reasonably be expected that fire fighters in vapor protective
suits would be significantly better protected.
(12) Support garments shall not be used in the hot zone of any
hazardous material operation.
(13) Fire fighters assigned to functional support operations
outside the hot zone during hazardous chemical emergencies shall
be provided with and shall use support function protective garments.
Support function garments shall meet the requirements of NFPA,
Standard on Support Function Protective Garments for Hazardous
Chemical Operations 1993, 1990 edition.
(14) Support function protective garments shall not be used for
protection from chemical or specific chemical mixture with known
or suspected carcinogenicity as indicated by (10)(a), (b), or
(c).
(15) Support function protective garments shall not be used for
protection from chemicals or specific chemical mixtures with skin
toxicity notations as indicated in the American Conference of
Governmental Industrial Hygienists, Threshold Values and Biological
Exposure Indices for 1988-1989.
Note: Decontamination - See Appendix C.
Additional References:
WAC 296-305-05011, Hazardous materials operations.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010,
[49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-03001, filed
5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]
WAC
296-305-04001 Respiratory equipment protection.
(1) Fire fighter's self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)
shall:
(a) Be pressure demand type (positive pressure);
(b) Operate in the positive pressure mode only;
(c) Have a minimum of thirty minutes service duration;
(d) Be NIOSH certified; and
(e) Meet the requirements of the 1992 or 1997 edition of NFPA,
Standard on Open Circuit Self Contained Breathing Apparatus
for Fire Fighters 1981.
(2) Closed circuit SCBA shall:
(a) Be positive pressure;
(b) Be NIOSH certified; and
(c) Have a minimum thirty-minute service duration.
(3) Members using SCBA's shall operate in teams of two or more.
(4) Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, fire departments
shall adopt, maintain and implement a written respiratory protection
program that addresses the requirements of chapter 296-842 WAC,
Respiratory protection and Part I-1, Asbestos, Tremolite, Anthophyllite,
and Actinolite. This includes program administration, medical
limitations, equipment limitations, equipment selection, inspection,
use, maintenance, training, fit testing procedures, air quality,
and program evaluation.
Note: Additional information on respirators
and respirator usage can be found in ANSI Z88.2 - American National
Standard for Respiratory Protection; ANSI Z88.5 - Practices for
Respiratory Protection for Fire Service; various NFPA publications
(1981, 1404, 1500, etc.), and the Washington State Fire Service
Training Program for respiratory training and usage.
(5) When fire departments purchase compressed breathing air from
a vendor, the fire department shall require the vendor to provide
certification and documentation of breathing air quality as specified
in subsection (21) of this section and in chapter 296-842 WAC.
(6) When the fire department makes its own breathing air or uses
vendor purchased breathing air, the air quality from compressors,
cascade systems cylinders, shall be tested at least quarterly
as specified in subsection (21) of this section.
(7) Fit testing shall be conducted in accordance with this section
and chapter 296-842 WAC, Respiratory protection.
(a) Each new member shall be tested before being permitted
to use SCBA's in a hazardous atmosphere.
(b) Only fire fighters with a properly fitting facepiece shall
be permitted by the fire department to function in a hazardous
atmosphere with SCBA. (Reference WAC 296-842-18005.)
(c) Fit testing shall be repeated:
(i) At least once every twelve months.
(ii) Whenever there are changes in the type of SCBA or facepiece
used.
(iii) Whenever there are significant physical changes in
the user. Example: Weight change of ten percent or more, scarring
of face seal area, dental changes, cosmetic surgery, or any
other condition that may affect the fit of the facepiece seal.
(d) The fit testing is done only in a negative-pressure mode.
If the facepiece is modified for fit testing, the modification
shall not affect the normal fit of the device. Such modified
devices shall only be used for fit testing.
(e) The fit test procedures and test exercises described in
WAC 296-62-07162, Asbestos, Appendix C, shall be followed unless
stated otherwise in this chapter.
(f) Respirator fit test records shall include:
(i) Written guidelines for the respirator fit testing program
including pass/fail criteria;
(ii) Type of respirator tested including manufacturer, model,
and size;
(iii) Type of fit test and instrumentation or equipment used;
(iv) Name or identification of test operator;
(v) Name of person tested;
(vi) Date of test; and
(vii) Results of test.
Note: Fire fighters should be issued
individual facepieces.
(8) Facial hair, contact lenses, and eye and face protective
devices.
(a) A negative pressure respirator, any self-contained breathing
apparatus, or any respirator which is used in an atmosphere
immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) equipped with
a facepiece shall not be worn if facial hair comes between the
sealing periphery of the facepiece and the face or if facial
hair interferes with the valve function.
(b) The wearer of a respirator shall not be allowed to wear
contact lenses if the risk of eye damage is increased by their
use.
(c) If a spectacle, goggle, or face shield must be worn with
a facepiece, it shall be worn so as to not adversely affect
the seal of the facepiece to the face. See WAC 296-62-07170(2).
(d) Straps or temple bars shall not pass between the seal or
surface of the respirator and the user's face.
(9) At the end of suppression activities (to include fire overhaul)
and before returning to quarters:
(a) Fire fighters shall be decontaminated prior to removal
of respirators whenever fire fighting activities resulted in
exposure to a hazardous substance.
(b) When exchanging air supply bottles during suppression or
overhaul activities, reasonable precautions shall be taken to
maintain uncontaminated atmosphere to the breathing zone and
facepiece supply hose.
(10) Self-contained respiratory equipment shall be available
and used by all fire fighters who enter into hazardous atmospheres
during structural fire fighting activities.
(11) Positive pressure air line respirators may be used only
for atmospheres other than IDLH and must be equipped with a five
minute minimum capacity positive pressure escape bottle.
(a) If the service life of the auxiliary air supply is fifteen
minutes or less it shall not be used for entry into an IDLH
atmosphere but it may be used for escape purposes. The auxiliary
air supply may be used for entry into an IDLH atmosphere only
when the service life of the unit exceeds fifteen minutes and
when not more than twenty percent of the noted air supply will
be used during entry.
(b) The maximum length of hose for supplied air respirators
is 300 feet (91 meters). Such hose shall be heavy duty nonkinking
and NIOSH approved.
(12) Respirators shall be provided for, and shall be used by,
all personnel working in areas where:
(a) The atmosphere is hazardous;
(b) The atmosphere is suspected of being hazardous; or
(c) The atmosphere may rapidly become hazardous;
(13) Anytime fire fighters are working inside a confined space,
such persons shall be provided with SCBA or air line respirator
with escape bottle, and shall use the equipment unless the safety
of the atmosphere can be established by testing and continuous
monitoring.
(14) Fire fighters using a properly functioning SCBA shall not
compromise the protective integrity of the SCBA by removing the
facepiece for any reason in hazardous atmospheres or in atmospheres
where the quality of air is unknown.
(15) Fire fighters shall receive training for each type and manufacturer
of respiratory equipment available for their use, the step-by-step
procedure for donning the respirator and checking it for proper
function. Required training shall include:
(a) Recognizing hazards that may be encountered;
(b) Understanding the components of the respirator;
(c) Understanding the safety features and limitations of the
respirator; and
(d) Donning and doffing the respirator.
(16) After completing such training, each fire fighter shall
practice at least quarterly, for each type and manufacture of
respirator available for use, the step-by-step procedure for donning
the respirator and checking it for proper function.
(17) Members shall be tested at least annually on the knowledge
of respiratory protection equipment operation, safety, organizational
policies and procedures, and facepiece seals, to the fire department's
standard. Such records shall remain part of the member training
file.
(18) Members shall be allowed to use only the make, model, and
size respirator for which they have passed a fit test within the
last twelve months.
(19) In cases where there is a reported failure of a respirator,
it shall be removed from service, tagged and recorded as such,
and tested before being returned to service.
(20) Fire fighters shall be thoroughly trained in accordance
with the manufacturer's instructions on emergency procedures such
as use of regulator bypass valve, corrective action for facepiece
and breathing tube damage, and breathing directly from the regulator
(where applicable).
(21) Compressed gaseous breathing air in the SCBA cylinder shall
meet the requirements of ANSI/CGA G7.1 - Commodity Specification
for Air, with a minimum air quality of grade D, as well as meeting
a water vapor level of 24 ppm or less.
(22) SCBA cylinders shall be hydrostatically tested within the
periods specified by the manufacturer and the applicable governmental
agencies.
Additional reference:
Chapter 296-842 WAC.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010,
.040, .050, and .060. 05-03-093 (Order 04-41), § 296305-04001,
filed 01/18/05, effective 03/01/05. Statutory Authority:
RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050. 02-12-098 (Order 00-20), § 296-305-04001,
filed 06/05/02, effective 08/01/02. Statutory Authority:
RCW 49.17.040. 99-05-080 (Order 98-14) § 296-305-04001, filed
02/17/99, effective 06/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010,
[49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-04001, filed
5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]
WAC
296-305-04501 Automotive fire apparatus design and construction.
(1) All new fire apparatus with the exception of specialized
equipment, shall conform to the following minimum safety standards
contained in NFPA Booklets No. 1901, 1902, 1903, 1904, and other
1900's.
(2) Fire apparatus, purchased after December 17, 1977, weighing
10,000 pounds or more shall conform with the following U.S. Department
of Transportation standards, when applicable:
(a) 49 CFR Ch. V (10-93 edition) 571.121 “Air brake systems”;
(b) 49 CFR Ch. V (10-93 edition) 571.106 “Hydraulic brake
hoses”;
(c) 49 CFR Ch. V (10-93 edition) 571-211 “Hydraulic brake
hoses.”
(3) Employers acquiring used apparatus or used equipment shall
not be required to bring it under a more stringent code than the
one in force at the time the apparatus was manufactured. However,
such vehicle must meet applicable U.S. Department of Transportation
standards and chapter 296-865 WAC, Motor vehicles.
(4) Fire apparatus tailboards and steps shall have a nonskid
rough surface.
(5) Exhaust systems shall be installed and maintained in proper
condition, and shall be so designed as to minimize the exposure
of the fire fighter to the exhaust gases and fumes.
(6) Spinner knobs shall not be attached to the steering handwheel
of fire apparatus.
(7) The transmission shifting pattern of the apparatus shall
be clearly stenciled or labeled and posted so it can be clearly
read by the driver while operating the apparatus.
(8) The height of any apparatus, over seven feet in height from
the ground to the top of the beacon or highest point of the apparatus,
shall be clearly labeled in a place where it can be easily and
clearly read by the driver while operating the apparatus.
(9) All apparatus in excess of 10,000 pounds loaded weight, shall
have the weight of the vehicle in pounds and tons clearly labeled
in a place where it can be easily and clearly read by the driver
while operating the apparatus.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010,
.040, .050, and .060. 05-16-099 (Order 04-18), § 296-305-04501,
filed 08/02/05, effective 10/01/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040.
99-05-080 (Order 98-14), § 296-305-04501, filed 02/17/99, effective
06/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and
[49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-04501, filed 5/10/96, effective
1/1/97.]
WAC
296-305-04503 Automotive fire apparatus equipment.
(1) Vehicles used to transport fire fighters and employer representatives
shall have compartments for carrying sharp tools, saws, chisels,
axes, etc., or if carried on the outside of the apparatus, equipment
with sharp points and edges shall be covered to prevent injury
to fire fighters and employer representatives.
(2) Personnel restraints for traveling.
(a) All persons riding on fire apparatus shall be seated and
secured to the vehicle by seatbelts or safety harnesses at any
time the vehicle is in motion.
(b) Seatbelts shall comply with U.S. Department of Transportation
Part 49 CFR Section 571, Standards 209 and 210.
(c) Riding on tailsteps or in any other exposed position such
as sidesteps or running boards shall be specifically prohibited.
(d) Standing while riding shall be specifically prohibited.
(e) Members actively performing necessary emergency medical
care while the vehicle is in motion shall be restrained to the
extent consistent with the effective provision of such emergency
medical care. All other persons in the vehicle shall be seated
and belted in approved seating positions while the vehicle is
in motion.
(f) Fire departments permitting hose loading operations while
the vehicle is in motion shall develop a written policy and
guidelines addressing all safety aspects.
Note: Policy and operating guidelines
should address:
-
The
assigning of a member as a safety observer who should have
an unobstructed view of the hose loading operation and be
in visual and voice contact with the driver.
-
Allowed
maximum fire apparatus speed when hose loading;
-
Control
of nonfire department vehicular traffic; and
-
Allowing
members in the hose bed, but limit standing to only when
the vehicle is not moving.
Note: See WAC 296-305-07011(3) for exceptions
for wildland vehicles.
(3) Each fire apparatus shall carry a current U.S. Department
of Transportation chemical identification book or the equivalent.
(4) Ladders stowed on the sides of apparatus, which protrude
past the tailboard, shall have guards over the protruding ends.
(5) No employer shall permit automotive fire apparatus equipment
which has an obstructed view to the rear, to be used in reverse
gear unless the equipment has in operation a reverse signal alarm
distinguishable from the surrounding noise level.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040.
99-05-080 (Order 98-14), § 296-305-04503, filed 02/17/99, effective
06/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and
[49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-04503, filed 5/10/96, effective
1/1/97.]
WAC
296-305-04505 Automotive apparatus operational rules.
(1) Each employer of staffed fire apparatus shall establish a
written policy and procedure whereby the apparatus has a scheduled
daily operational check. Each employer of unstaffed fire apparatus
shall establish a schedule appropriate to that department's activities.
(2) Any item found to be in need of repair shall be reported
immediately to the officer in charge or other appropriate person.
(3) Fire fighting apparatus shall be brought to a full stop before
employees are allowed to step from the apparatus.
(4) Fire fighters shall not be in the apparatus hose bed while
hose is being run out from the bed.
(5) Headlights shall be on at all times when any fire or emergency
vehicle is responding to a call.
(6) All apparatus over 20,000 pounds (gross vehicle weight) shall
utilize wheel blocks when parked at an emergency scene.
(7) Apparatus responding to alarms shall meet specifications
in RCW 46.61.035, relating to operations of authorized emergency
vehicles.
(8) All operators of emergency vehicles shall be trained in the
operations of apparatus before they are designated as drivers
of such apparatus. The training program shall be established by
each fire department. Once trained, all operators shall familiarize
themselves with any apparatus prior to operating such apparatus
even for brief periods of time.
Additional Reference:
Washington State Fire Protection Bureau - Emergency Vehicle
Accident Prevention (EVAP) program.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010,
[49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-04505, filed
5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]
WAC
296-305-04507 Fire apparatus maintenance and repair.
(1) If at any time a fire apparatus is found to be in an unsafe
condition, it shall be reported immediately to the officer on
duty.
(2) If in the officer's determination, the apparatus cannot be
used in a safe manner, it shall be taken out of service until
it has been restored to a safe operating condition.
(3) All repairs and preventive maintenance to fire apparatus
shall only be made by personnel deemed qualified by the registered
owners of the fire apparatus.
(a) A preventive maintenance program shall be instituted and
records maintained for each individual apparatus in order to
record and track potential or on-going problems.
(b) A minimum annual service test of apparatus shall be made
according to NFPA guidelines relating to pumper apparatus.
(c) Failure of any portion of the annual service test shall
constitute the apparatus to be placed out of service as a pumper
until adequate repairs are made and the apparatus successfully
completes said tests.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010,
[49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-04507, filed
5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]
WAC
296-305-04509 Aerial ladders.
(1) When operating aerial ladders, the manufacturer's suggested
procedures shall be followed.
(2) Aerial ladders shall be used according to the following requirements:
(a) The number of fire fighters permitted on aerial ladders
shall be in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
(b) Aerial ladders shall not knowingly be positioned under
dangerous cornices or other loose overhanging objects that may
endanger fire fighters and fire fighters working on, or climbing
the ladders, except where rescue operations are essential.
(c) When working on, or near energized electrical lines, the
following minimum working clearances shall be observed:
(i) For lines rated 50 kv or below, the minimum clearance
between the lines and any part of the equipment shall be ten
feet.
(ii) For lines rated over 50 kv, the minimum clearance shall
be ten feet plus 0.4 inch for each 1 kv.
(iii) For low voltage lines (operating at 750 volts or less),
the work shall be performed in a manner to prevent the fire
fighters contacting the energized conductor.
(d) Fire apparatus aerial ladders shall be positioned for the
greatest stability feasible at the fire scene.
(e) The tip of the aerial ladder shall not be forcefully extended
against a solid structure.
(f) Aerial ladders shall not be extended or retracted while
fire fighters are climbing the ladder.
(g) Locking in shall not be permitted. If it is necessary for
fire fighters to be positioned on the aerial, they shall be
secured by a life belt.
(h) Ladder pipes, when in use, shall be secured to the aerial
in such a manner so that the ladder pipe cannot accidentally
be dislodged while in operation.
(i) The operator of an aerial ladder shall remain on the turntable
whenever fire fighters are working on the aerial. If the ladder
is used only as a ground ladder, no operator is needed on the
turntable.
(3) The following shall regulate the design and use of the operating
turntable and ladder:
(a) Ladders shall be designed to have nonskid protection on
the rungs.
(b) Turntable controls and valves for rotating, extending,
or elevating the aerial ladder shall be clearly and distinctly
marked as to function.
(c) Aerial controls shall be spring loaded and have a safety
catch so that the controls shall return to the neutral position
if the operator is incapacitated.
(d) The operator of the aerial shall be provided with a nonskid
surface on the turntable surface.
(e) A railing of approximately 44 inches in height, and if
possible, not less than 36 inches in length, shall be installed
on the turntable in back of the operators position.
(f) A light of not less than 10,000 candlepower shall be provided
at the base to illuminate the ladder at night in any position
of operation.
(4) The following shall regulate the communication systems on
the aerial ladder and on the automotive fire apparatus.
(a) A two-way voice communication system shall be installed
between the top fly of the ladder and the lower control station.
(b) There shall be some type of electrical signal or voice
communication located in the tractor of tillered aerial for
communication signals between the tillerman and driver. The
apparatus shall not be moved unless the proper signal, as shown
in Appendix E, is received from the tillerman.
(5) When maintaining the aerial ladder, the manufacturer's instructions
shall be followed.
(a) Cables, pulleys, rails and rungs of aerial ladders shall
be inspected for wear and tightness on a monthly basis or every
ten hours of operating time, which ever comes first.
(b) Pulleys on the aerial with cracks or pieces broken out
of rims shall be replaced.
(c) Cables showing evidence of damage or wear shall be replaced.
(d) Rungs or rails that have been subjected to unusual impact
shall be tested before usage.
(6) The automotive fire apparatus used in conjunction with aerial
ladders shall be designed and used according to the following:
(a) Ground jacks or outriggers shall be deployed before an
aerial ladder is put into operation.
(b) Ground plates shall be deployed under the outriggers or
jacks at all times.
(c) Hand, airbrakes, and spring brakes for fifth wheel shall
be set whenever an aerial ladder is in operation.
(d) In addition to ground jack supports and outriggers, wheel
blocks shall be used whenever the aerial is in operation.
(e) Wheel chocks shall be rated by the manufacturer of the
chock for the apparatus it is to be used on.
(f) Sand shall be put under jacks and outriggers when operating
on ice or snow.
(7) Annual testing of metal aerial ladders shall follow the recommendations
of the current National Fire Protection Association Standard.
(a) The aerial ladder, as well as the support section of the
apparatus which supports the turntable, shall be nondestructively
tested by a certified testing agency every five years.
(b) After any accident that causes structural damage, the test
in (a) shall be performed and all defects detected shall be
corrected before the apparatus is returned to service.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010,
[49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-04509, filed
5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]
WAC
296-305-04511 Elevated platforms.
(1) Elevated platform system design requirements:
(a) The platform shall have a minimum floor area of fourteen
square feet.
(b) The platform shall be provided with a guard railing. The
guard railing shall be 42 to 45 inches high on all sides.
(c) The railing shall be constructed so that there is no opening
below it greater than 19 inches.
(d) There shall be two gates below the top railing, each of
which shall be provided with suitable safety latches.
(e) A kick plate not less than four inches high shall be provided
around the floor of the platform.
(f) Drain openings shall be provided to prevent water accumulation
on the platform.
(g) A heat-protective shield shall be provided on the platform
for the protection of the operator.
(h) Hydraulic or pneumatic systems shall have a minimum bursting
strength of at least four times the operating pressure for which
the system is designed.
(i) The basic structural elements of the hydraulic or articulating
boom shall have a safety factor of three.
(j) Each hydraulic or pneumatic system for the boom shall be
equipped with a pilot operated check valve or other appropriate
device to prevent free fall in the event of hydraulic failure.
(2) Requirements related to the controlling of elevated platforms:
(a) A control or device shall be provided at both the lower
control station and the platform control station to allow either
operator to completely deactivate the platform controls.
(b) During the deactivation of the platform controls, the lower
controls shall remain operable.
(c) A plate shall be located at the platform control unit or
units listing the following information:
(i) Model and serial number of the manufacturer;
(ii) Rated capacity of the platform;
(iii) Operating pressure of the hydraulic or pneumatic systems
or both;
(iv) Caution or restriction of operation or both; and
(v) Control instructions.
(vi) This plate shall be clearly visible to the operator
at the lower control position.
(d) There shall be an operator at the lower controls at all
times while the fire fighter is in the bucket.
(e) The operator at the lower controls shall make certain the
fire fighter on the platform is secured by his life belt, or
equivalent, before raising the platform.
(3) Testing of elevated platforms and related apparatus shall
be conducted annually.
(a) Testing of elevated platforms and related apparatus shall
be in accordance with NFPA, Standard for Testing Fire Department
Aerial Ladders 1914, 1991 edition.
(b) It is recommended that the boom section as well as the
support section of the apparatus which supports the turntable
should be nondestructively tested by a certified testing agency
every five years.
(c) After any accident that causes structural damage, testing
shall be performed and all defects detected shall be corrected
before the apparatus is returned to service.
(d) Elevated platform testing shall follow recommendations
of the current National Fire Code.
(e) Fire apparatus elevated platforms shall be positioned for
the greatest stability feasible at the fire scene.
(4) A two-way voice communication system shall be installed between
the platform and the lower control station.
(5) Automotive apparatus used in conjunction with elevated platforms
shall be used in accordance with the following:
(a) Hand or air brakes shall be set before the platform is
operated.
(b) Jacks or outriggers shall be used if the platform is to
be elevated.
(c) Wheel blocks shall also be used when the platform is in
operation unless the type of apparatus is one that has wheels
that lift off the ground when the jacks or outriggers are engaged.
(d) Ground plates shall be used under the outriggers or jacks.
(e) Sand shall be put under jacks and outriggers when operating
on ice or snow.
(f) When working on or near energized electrical lines, the
fire department shall develop operational procedures for observing
the following minimum working clearances:
(i) For lines rated 50 kv or below, the minimum clearance
shall be ten feet.
(ii) For lines rated over 50 kv, the minimum clearance shall
be ten feet plus 0.4 inch for each 1 kv.
(iii) For low voltage lines (operating at 750 volts or less),
the work shall be performed in a manner to prevent the fire
fighters contacting the energized conductor.
(6) Appliances mounted on elevated platforms. Platform mounted
monitors shall be operated in accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions.
Additional References:
WAC 296-24-880.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010,
.040, .050. 01-11-038 (Order 99-36), § 296-305-04511, filed 05/09/01,
effective 09/01/01. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050
and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-04511, filed 5/10/96, effective
1/1/97.]
WAC
296-305-05001 Emergency fireground operations-Structural.
(1) The fire department shall establish an incident command system
(ICS) with written guidelines applying to all members involved
in emergency operations. All members involved in emergency operations
shall be familiar with the ICS system. Personnel shall be trained
and qualified by their department in the incident command system
prior to taking a supervisory role at an emergency scene.
(2) At an emergency incident, the incident commander shall be
responsible for the overall safety of all members and all activities
occurring at the scene.
(3) All emergency incidents shall be managed by an ICS, the incident
commander shall establish an organization with sufficient supervisory
personnel to control the position and function of all members
operating at the scene and to ensure that safety requirements
are satisfied.
(4) At an emergency incident, the incident commander shall have
the responsibility to:
(a) Assume and confirm command and take an effective command
position.
(b) Perform situation evaluation that includes risk assessment.
(c) Initiate, maintain, and control incident communication.
(d) Develop an overall strategy and attack plan and assign
units to operations.
(e) Develop an effective incident organization by managing
resources, maintaining an effective span of control, and maintaining
direct supervision over the entire incident by creating geographical
and/or functional areas as appropriate for the scope and size
of the incident.
(f) Review, evaluate, and revise the operational plan as required.
(g) Continue, transfer, and terminate command.
(5) The fire department shall develop a risk management policy
that can be implemented into the function of incident command
and the development of incident strategies.
The risk management policy should include direction and guidance
to the incident commander in formulating incident planning relating
to the level of risk that may be undertaken in any given incident
to save lives and to save property in as safe a manner as dictated
by the situation.
(6) The fire department shall establish written procedures and
guidelines for tracking all members operating at an emergency
incident.
(7) The incident command system shall provide for control of
access to hazardous areas of the incident scene by department
members.
(8) Fire fighters operating in hazardous areas at emergency structural
fire incidents shall operate in teams of two or more.
Team members operating in hazardous areas shall be in communication
with each other through visual, audible, physical, safety guide
rope, or electronic means, or by other means in order to coordinate
their activities. Team members shall be in close proximity to
each other to provide assistance in case of emergency.
(9) The fire department shall provide personnel for the rescue
of members operating at emergency incidents as the need arises.
(10) Before beginning interior structural fire fighting operations,
the incident commander must evaluate the situation and risks to
operating teams.
(a) Except as provided in WAC 296-305-05001(11), fire fighters
must not engage in interior structural fire fighting in the
absence of at least two standby fire fighters.
(b) All standby fire fighters must be fully equipped with the
appropriate protective clothing, protective equipment and SCBA.
(c) Standby members must remain aware of the status of fire
fighters in the hazardous area.
(d) Standby members must remain in positive communication with
the entry team(s), in full protective clothing the SCBA donned
in the standby mode.
(e) Standby members may be permitted to perform other duties
outside the hazardous area, provided constant communication
is maintained between a standby member and the entry team(s),
and provided that those duties will not interfere with the standby
members' ability to participate in a rescue as appropriate.
(f) Early consideration should be given to providing one or
more rapid intervention teams commensurate with the needs of
the situation.
(11) In the “initial stage” of a structure fire-incident
where only one team is operating in the hazardous area, where
additional resources can reasonably be expected, and where exceptional
circumstances indicate that immediate action may be necessary
to prevent or mitigate the loss of life or serious injury to citizenry
or fire fighters, at least one additional fire fighter must be
assigned to stand by outside the hazardous area where the team
is operating.
(a) The standby fire fighter must remain aware of the status
of fire fighters in the hazardous area.
(b) The standby fire fighter must remain in positive communication
with the entry team, in full protective clothing with SCBA donned
in the standby mode.
(c) The standby fire fighter may be permitted to perform other
duties outside the hazardous area, provided constant communications
is maintained with the team in the hazardous area, and provided
that those duties will not interfere with his or her ability
to initiate a rescue as appropriate.
(d) Once additional resources have arrived on the scene, the
incident must no longer be considered in its initial stage and
all the requirements of WAC 296-305-05001(10) must be met.
Note: Nothing in this section shall prevent
activities which may reasonably be taken by members first on
the scene to determine the nature and extent of fire involvement.
(12) The fire department shall develop and maintain written guidelines
for the safety of members at incidents that involve violence,
unrest, or civil disturbance. Such situations may include but
not be limited to riots, fights, violent crimes, drug related
situations, family disturbances, deranged individuals, and people
interfering with fire department operations.
(13) Officers at emergency scenes shall maintain an awareness
of the physical condition of members operating within their span
of control and ensure that adequate steps are taken to provide
for their safety and health. The command structure shall be utilized
to request relief and reassignment of fatigued crews.
(14) Wildfire suppression personal protective clothing/equipment
shall not be utilized for interior attacks on structures.
(15) Teams in the hazardous area shall have positive communication
capabilities with the incident command structure. Incident radio
communication capabilities within the incident command structure
shall include monitoring of incident-assigned frequencies (including
mutual aid radio frequencies).
(16) Prior to overhaul, buildings shall be surveyed for possible
safety and health hazards. Fire fighters shall be informed of
hazards observed during the survey.
(17) During the overhaul phase officers shall identify materials
likely to contain asbestos, limiting the breaching of structural
materials to that which is necessary to prevent rekindle.
(18) Floatation devices shall be made available to fire fighters
at incidents where drowning is a possibility. This is not intended
to include pools and hot tubs.
(19) Fire fighters shall not cut the electrical drip loop providing
power to the structure nor pull the electrical meter.
(20) Traffic cones or other traffic control devices shall be
utilized when vehicular traffic hazards exist at an emergency
operation.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040.
99-05-080 (Order 98-14), § 296-305-05001, filed 02/17/99, effective
06/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and
[49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-05001, filed 5/10/96, effective
1/1/97.]
WAC
296-305-05003 Confined space rescue operations.
(1) Fire departments shall comply with chapter 296-62 WAC, Part
M for their own confined spaces.
(2) Fire departments which have been contracted as an outside
rescue service provider shall also comply with Part M and in particular
the specific provisions of WAC 296-62-14150(2) which requires
authorized entrant training and rescue practices from the host's
actual permit spaces or representative permit spaces.
(3) Fire departments which have responded or will respond to
calls to perform rescue from a noncontracted permit-required confined
space are required to have each member of a rescue team practice
making permit space rescues at least every 12 months by means
of simulated rescue operations in which they remove dummies, mannequins
or actual persons from permit space. A permit is required for
the practice permit space entry.
(4) During an actual rescue response, written and/or verbally
recorded hazard sizeup will be allowed in lieu of the written
permit requirements in WAC 296-62-14507 and 296-62-14509 and shall
be completed prior to any entry. This sizeup shall include at
a minimum:
(a) Recognition and declaration of the situation as a confined
space incident.
(b) Denial of entry to unprotected persons.
(c) Assessment of all readily available confined space documentation,
e.g., MSDSs, any existing permit, plans or blueprints of the
space.
(d) Assessment of number of victim(s), locations and injury
conditions.
(e) Discussion with witnesses, supervisor, etc.
(f) Assessment of any current or potential space hazards, in
particular, any hazard(s) which lead to the necessary rescue.
(g) Determination and declaration if body recovery or victim
rescue.
(5) At confined space incidents, at least two people outside
shall be equipped with appropriate breathing apparatus to act
as the back-up team, which shall remain free of the contaminated
area in order to rescue disabled fire fighters.
(6) Written documentation of the rescue team's training on the
fire department's confined space operating procedures, authorized
entrant training, if applicable, the contracted host's confined
space program. A record of each of the hazard sizeups shall be
maintained for at least one year.
[Statutory Authority: RCW
49.17.010, .040, .050. 02-12-098 (Order 00-20), § 296-305-05003,
filed 06/05/02, effective 08/01/02. Statutory Authority:
RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-05003,
filed 5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]
WAC
296-305-05005 Rope rescue operations.
(1) Fire departments engaged in rope rescue operations shall
comply with the requirements of this section and WAC 296-305-02019.
(2) Employees engaged in rope rescue operations shall be properly
trained and qualified by the employer to perform such activities.
(3) Employers shall establish standard operational procedures
for rope rescue activities and training.
(4) When engaged in rope activities, employees shall be provided
and wear either structural fire fighting helmets and gloves, or
helmets that meet ANSI Standard Z89.1, 1986 edition, Class A and
B; gloves.
(5) Records shall be maintained of inspections and repairs made
to rope rescue equipment.
(a) Equipment shall be inspected after purchase and prior to
placing in service, after each use, and at least semi-annually.
(b) Harnesses shall be inspected for worn or broken stitching,
rivets worn out of holes, and damage from abrasion, cuts, or
chemicals.
(c) Descending/ascending hardware shall be inspected for wear,
cracks, distortion, sharp edges, and ease of operation.
(d) Equipment showing damage or wear that can affect employee
safety, shall be either repaired prior to further use or retired.
(6) The manufacturer's recommended shelf life of rescue ropes
shall be followed. If no shelf life is specified, ropes greater
than six years old, whether used or not, shall be taken out of
service or destroyed.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010,
[49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-05005, filed
5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]
WAC
296-305-05007 Trench rescue operations.
(1) Fire departments that engage in trench rescue operations
shall adopt and maintain a written response program that addresses
training and procedures to follow in emergency life threatening
situations.
(2) Employees that directly engage in trench rescue operations
shall be trained or shall be under the direct supervision of person(s)
with adequate training in trench and excavation hazard recognition,
equipment use and operational techniques.
[Statutory Authority: RCWC 49.17.040.
99-05-080 (Order 98-14), § 296-305-05007, filed 02/17/99, effective
06/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and
[49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-05007, filed 5/10/96, effective
1/1/97.]
WAC
296-305-05009 Watercraft rescue operations.
(1) If a manufacturer's specifications are such that an engineer
is required for the operation of a vessel, then one shall be provided.
(2) When fire boats perform rescue activities they shall have
two dedicated personnel. Any member not specifically required
to operate the vessel, e.g., an operator (pilot) or engineer (if
required by the manufacturers specification) may be used as a
deck hand. This may include the boat officer if his/her duties
do not include operating the fire boat.
(3) Watercraft load capabilities shall not exceed the manufacturer's
specifications.
(4) Each fire department shall determine the function of their
watercraft; as fire fighting, rescue, or both.
(5) Watercraft operating within navigable waters of the state
of Washington (as defined by the United States Coast Guard) shall
comply with all of the rules of the United States Coast Guard.
(6) Fire boats operating within navigable waters of the state
of Washington (as defined by the United States Coast Guard) shall
have a fully dedicated pilot.
(7) The operator (pilot) of the watercraft is responsible for
its safe operation.
(8) Training for all personnel shall represent the intent of
the employer and physical characteristics of the vessel involved
and shall be included in the employer's accident prevention program.
(a) All assigned personnel shall be trained in safe operation
of watercraft and the operations the craft is intended to perform.
(b) All employees involved in water rescue shall be trained
in water rescue techniques and wear Coast Guard approved personal
flotation devices, Type III, minimum.
Exception: Employees working below deck
or in enclosed cabins.
(9) All employers operating watercraft in nonnavigable waters
shall be responsible for training all employees to local hazards.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040.
99-05-080 (Order 98-14), § 296-305-05009, filed 02/17/99, effective
06/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and
[49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-05009, filed 5/10/96, effective
1/1/97.]
WAC
296-305-05011 Hazardous materials operations.
Fire departments engaged in emergency response to releases of
hazardous substances shall comply with chapter 296-62 WAC, Part
P, Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010,
[49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-05011, filed
5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]
WAC
296-305-05013 Aircraft rescue and fire fighting.
Fire departments that engage in aircraft rescue and fire fighting
operations shall review NFPA, Manual for Aircraft Rescue and Fire
Fighting Operations 402M, 1991 edition.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010,
[49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-05013, filed
5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]
WAC
296-305-05501 Fire training.
(1) All members who engage in emergency operations shall be trained
commensurate with their duties and responsibilities. Training
shall be as frequent as necessary to ensure that members can perform
their assigned duties in a safe and competent manner but shall
not be less than the frequencies specified in this standard. Minimum
training shall be as specified in this part.
(2) Live structural-fire training: Prior to being permitted to
participate in live structure-fire training evolutions, the student
shall have received adequate training in safety, protective breathing
apparatus, fire hose, nozzles and fire streams, ladders, and rescue
as defined by the employer.
(a) Strict safety practices shall be applied to all structures
selected for live fire training evolutions.
(b) In preparation for live training, an inspection of acquired
buildings shall be made to determine that the floors, walls,
stairs and other structure components are capable of withstanding
the weight of contents, participants and accumulated water.
(c) Removal or neutralization of materials of all hazardous
storage and conditions within the structure shall be accomplished.
(i) Closed containers and highly combustible materials shall
be removed.
(ii) Oil tanks and similar closed vessels that cannot easily
be removed shall be vented sufficiently to eliminate an explosion
or overpressure rupture.
(iii) Any hazardous or combustible atmosphere within the tank
or other vessel shall be rendered inert.
(iv) Hazards potentially dangerous to participants such as
floor openings, missing stair tread and rails, and other such
hazards shall be repaired or made inaccessible.
(d) If applicable, floors, railings and stairs shall be made
safe. Special attention shall be given to potential chimney
hazards.
(e) Debris hindering the access or egress of fire fighters
shall be removed before continuing further operations.
(f) Buildings that cannot be made safe as required by this
section shall not be utilized for interior live fire training.
Note: The water supply for any individual
live fire training evolution should be assessed based on the
extent of the evolution, size and structure of the building
and contents to be involved, method of attack to be employed,
protection of exposures and reserves for potential contingencies.
Separate sources should be used for supply to attack and backup
lines.
(g) Prior to conducting actual live fire training evolutions,
a preburn briefing shall be conducted for all participants.
(i) All evolutions shall be discussed and assignments shall
be made for all crews participating in the training sessions.
(ii) All participants shall have a knowledge and familiarity
with the layout of the building.
(h) A safety officer shall be appointed for all live fire training
evolutions.
(i) One person shall be designated to control the materials
being burned and to ignite the training fire in the presence
and under the direction of the safety officer. This person shall
not be a student and shall wear full protective clothing, including
SCBA.
(j) Unidentified materials such as debris which may burn in
unanticipated ways, react violently, or create environmental
hazards, shall not be used in live fire training evolutions.
(k) Each participant in a coordinated interior live fire training
evolution shall be equipped with full protective clothing and
SCBA. All participants shall be inspected by the safety officer
to insure all protective clothing and SCBA are being properly
worn prior to entry into a live fire training evolution.
(l) All instructors shall be deemed qualified to deliver structural
fire fighting training by the employer. The instructor-student
ratio shall not be greater than one to five.
(m) Officers shall make a head count both when entering and
exiting a building during an actual attack.
(n) Supervisors at the training evolution shall maintain an
awareness of the condition of members operating within the span
of their control. They shall ensure adequate steps are taken
to provide for the safety and health of the participants and
relief or reassignment of fatigued persons.
(3) Fire fighters shall be trained in the function, donning and
doffing, care, use, inspection, maintenance and limitations of
the equipment assigned to them or available for their use.
(4) When fire fighters are engaged in training above the ten-foot
level where use of life lines or similar activities are to be
undertaken, a safety net shall be erected or other approved secondary
means of fall protection such as recommended in chapter 296-155
WAC, Part C-1, Fall restraint and fall arrest, shall be used in
lieu of nets.
(5) During wet training exercises, hose meeting the 250 pound
annual hose test shall be used.
(6) Training shall be provided to fire fighters and officers
in order that they will be knowledgeable in the identification
and handling of asbestos containing materials likely to be encountered
during a fire response.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010,
[49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-05501, filed
5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]
WAC
296-305-05503 Summary of training requirements.
(1) Training on noise must conform to chapter 296-817 WAC, Hearing
loss prevention (noise), and WAC 296-305-02005.
(2) Training on medical procedures shall conform to WAC 296-305-02501.
(3) Training on respiratory equipment shall conform to chapter
296-842 WAC, Respiratory protection, and WAC 296-305-04001.
(4) Training on employee right-to-know procedures shall conform
to WAC 296-800-170, chemical hazard communication program.
(5) Training on overhaul procedures and operations shall conform
to WAC 296-305-05001.
(6) Training on wildland fires shall conform to WAC 296-305-07001
through 296-305-07019.
(7) Training on confined space entry and/or rescue shall conform
to chapter 296-62 WAC, Part M, Permit-required confined spaces
and WAC 296-305-05003.
(8) Live fire training in structures shall conform to NFPA 1403
and this section.
(9) The employer shall provide training and education for all
members commensurate with those duties and functions that members
are expected to perform. Such training and education shall be
provided to members before they perform emergency activities.
Fire service leaders and training instructors shall be provided
with training and education which is more comprehensive than that
provided to the general membership of the fire department.
(10) The employer shall assure that training and education is
conducted frequently enough to assure that each member is able
to perform the member's assigned duties and functions satisfactorily
and in a safe manner so as not to endanger members or other employees.
All members shall be provided with training at least annually.
In addition, members who are expected to perform interior structural
fire fighting shall be provided with an education session or training
at least quarterly.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010,
.040, .050, and .060. 05-03-093 (Order 04-41), § 296-305-05503,
filed 01/18/05, effective 03/01/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010,
.040, .050, and .060. 03-11-060 (Order 02-16), § 296-305-05503,
filed 05/19/03, effective 08/01/03. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010,
.040, .050. 01-11-038 (Order 99-36), § 296-305-05503, filed 05/09/01,
effective 09/01/01. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050
and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-05503, filed 5/10/96, effective
1/1/97.]
WAC
296-305-06001 Fire service equipment.
(1) All portable equipment shall be inspected routinely to ensure
that it is ready for use.
(2) Any defective equipment shall be removed from service.
(3) Nylon utility straps or straps of equivalent strength should
be used instead of hose belts. The utility strap shall be of one-inch
nylon, or equivalent belting, with a four-inch overlap and sewn
with polyester thread and shall measure at least 102 inches on
the outside circumference.
(4) The load capacity shall be stenciled on each portable jack
and the load capacity shall not be exceeded.
(5) The instruction plate on portable jacks shall be maintained
in a legible condition.
(6) Portable powered cut-off saws (rescue saws) shall be used
in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.
Exception: The lower blade guard described
in WAC 296-24-65501 (1)(a) is not required on hand-held portable
powered cut-off saws used by fire/rescue personnel for rescue
procedures and/or roof ventilation for smoke removal, provided
the operator is wearing appropriate eye, face, head, and body
protection as specified in WAC 296-305-02001 through 296-305-02013.
This exception also applies to qualified persons (e.g., instructors)
wearing personal protective equipment as described herein to instruct
personnel in safe roof ventilation/rescue techniques.
(7) When not in use, the cutting teeth on a chain saw shall be
covered either by an old section of hose, a wooden scabbard, or
an equivalent method.
(8) All axes worn by employees shall be provided with a scabbard
to guard against injury from the blade and pick of the axe.
(9) The guards on smoke ejectors, as supplied by the manufacturer,
shall not be removed and the operator of the ejector shall wear
gloves.
(10) Acetylene cylinders. Handling, storage and utilization of
acetylene in cylinders shall be in accordance with the Compressed
Gas Association Pamphlet G-1 - 1966 edition.
(11) Powder activated life-line guns and accessories shall be
stored in a box or container equipped with a lid or cover.
(a) The box shall be kept closed when not in use.
(b) A loaded life-line gun shall not be placed in the storage
box.
(c) Instruction books, cleaning kits and hand tools needed
for maintenance or breakdown purposes shall be kept in the life-line
gun storage box.
(d) The words “powder activated tool” shall be
conspicuously printed on the top of the storage box.
(12) Abrasive blades in storage shall be protected from contact
with water, liquids, petroleum products and their fumes.
(13) Fiber rope that has been subjected to injurious chemicals
or excessive heat shall not be used for load carrying purposes.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010,
[49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-06001, filed
5/10/96, effective 1/1/97. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040
and 49.17.050. 83-24-013 (Order 83-34), § 296-305-06001, filed
11/30/83; Order 77-20, § 296-305-06001, filed 10/18/77 and Emergency
Order 77-24, filed 11/17/77, effective 12/17/77.]
WAC
296-305-06003 Testing fire service equipment.
(1) When testing fire hose, a restricted orifice disc having
not more than a 25% opening, shall be installed on the pumper
discharge port. Or in the alternative, the pumper discharge valve
may be opened not more than 25% to insure a minimum volume of
water in case of a bursting hose.
(2) Safety nets shall be tested annually by dropping a weight
of not less than 400 pounds from the highest point to be used
above the net. The test weight object may consist of two tightly
tied rolls of two and one-half inch hose, each 100 feet long,
or any other object having similar weight and dimension.
(a) The net suspension system shall be designed and constructed
with a safety factor of four and as a minimum, shall withstand
the test loading without permitting contact between the net
and any surface or object below the net.
(b) Forged steel safety hooks or shackles shall be used to
fasten the net to its supports.
(c) Training requiring safety net protection shall not be undertaken
until the net is in place and has been tested by the weight
of three fire fighters on the net.
(d) Safety nets shall extend eight feet beyond the edge of
the work surface.
(e) The mesh size of nets shall not exceed six inches by six
inches.
(f) All nets shall meet accepted performance standards of 17,500
foot pounds minimum impact resistance as determined and certified
by the manufacturer, and shall bear a label of proof test.
(g) Edge ropes shall provide a minimum breaking strength of
5,000 pounds.
(3) Life belts shall meet or exceed the strength requirements
of ANSI. A10.14 - Requirements for Safety Belts, Harnesses, Lanyards,
Lifelines and Drop Lines for Industrial Use. Life belts shall
be inspected after each use and not less than semi-annually in
accordance with manufacturer's instructions.
(4) Rescue ropes shall be used for rescue purposes only.
(5) Rescue ropes shall meet the following requirements:
(a) Rescue ropes shall be constructed of rot-proof fiber with
a melting point of not less than 400 degrees F;
(b) They shall be of abrasion resistant construction;
(c) They shall have a minimum breaking strength of not less
than 9,000 pounds.
(6) Rescue ropes shall be inspected after each use and not less
than semi-annually in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.
(7) The method of testing a life line gun shall be in accordance
with the manufacturer's recommended procedure.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49 | 
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