Safety Standards for Fire Fighters Chapter 296-305

For printing

WAC

296-305-01001 Foreword.
296-305-01002 Effective date.
296-305-01003 Scope and application.
296-305-01005 Definitions.
296-305-01007 Variance and procedure.
296-305-01009 Appeals.
296-305-01501 Injury and illness reports for fire fighters.
296-305-01503 Accident investigation.
296-305-01505 Accident prevention program.
296-305-01507 Fire department safety officer.
296-305-01509 Management's responsibility.
296-305-01511 Employee's responsibility.
296-305-01513 Safe place standards.
296-305-01515 First-aid training and certification.
296-305-01517 First-aid kits.
296-305-02001 Personal protective equipment and protective clothing.
296-305-02003 Eye and face protection.
296-305-02005 Hearing protection.
296-305-02007 Hand protection.
296-305-02009 Body protection.
296-305-02011 Body armor.
296-305-02013 Foot protection for structural fire fighting.
296-305-02015 Head protection.
296-305-02017 Personal alert safety system (PASS) protection.
296-305-02019 Life safety ropes, harnesses, and hardware protection.
296-305-02501 Emergency medical protection.
296-305-03001 Hazardous materials protection.
296-305-04001 Respiratory equipment protection.
296-305-04501 Automotive fire apparatus design and construction.
296-305-04503 Automotive fire apparatus equipment.
296-305-04505 Automotive apparatus operational rules.
296-305-04507 Fire apparatus maintenance and repair.
296-305-04509 Aerial ladders.
296-305-04511 Elevated platforms.
296-305-05001 Emergency fireground operations-Structural.
296-305-05003 Confined space rescue operations.
206-305-05005 Rope rescue operations.
206-305-05007 Trench rescue operations.
296-305-05009 Watercraft rescue operations.
296-305-05011 Hazardous materials operations.
296-305-05013 Aircraft rescue and fire fighting.
296-305-05501 Fire training.
296-305-05503 Summary of training requirements.
296-305-06001 Fire service equipment.
296-305-06003 Testing fire service equipment.
296-305-06005 Ground ladders.
296-305-06007 Electrical.
296-305-06501 Requirements for fire station facilities.
296-305-06503 General requirements.
296-305-06505 Sanitation, disinfection, cleaning, and storage areas.
296-305-06507 Sleeping areas.
296-305-06509 Apparatus areas.
296-305-06511 Indoor air quality.
296-305-06513 Refueling areas.
296-305-06515 Hose drying towers.
296-305-06517 Drill tower training facilities.
296-305-06519 Fire station equipment and tools.
296-305-07001 Wildland fire operations.
296-305-07003 Personal protective clothing and equipment for wildland fire fighting.
296-305-07005 Respiratory protection for wildland fire fighters.
296-305-07007 Wildland personnel accountability.
296-305-07009 Apparatus standards for wildland fire fighting.
296-305-07011 Occupant restraints and enclosures for wildland fire fighting.
296-305-07013 Equipment for wildland fire fighting.
296-305-07015 Aircraft operations for fighting wildland fires.
296-305-07017 First-aid for wildland fire fighters.
296-305-07019 Training for wildland fire fighting.
296-305-08000 Appendices.
296-305-08000 Appendix A-Recommended cleaning procedures for protective turnout clothing and station uniforms.
296-305-08000 Appendix B-Life safety ropes.
296-305-08000 Appendix C-Decontamination.
296-305-08000 Appendix D-Wildland fire fighting Equipment Typings.
296-305-08000 Appendix E-Standard apparatus operation communications.
Sample Forms 1 through 10

WAC 296-305-01001 Foreword. 

These fire fighter safety and health standards were adopted by the department of labor and industries in accordance with the provisions of the Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act (WISHA) of 1973 (chapter 49.17 RCW), with recommendations from the fire service advisory committee.

The purpose of this chapter is to assist employers and employees in the reduction of work related injuries and illnesses. In addition to providing an enforceable set of safety and health standards for the fire protection services, it is the intent of the department that the provisions of this chapter be used to assist both employers and employees in achieving the safest workplace reasonably attainable under the conditions to which employees are or will be exposed.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-01001, filed 5/10/96, effective 1/1/97]

WAC 296-305-01002 Effective date. 

Unless a particular provision of this chapter specifies otherwise, the effective date of chapter 296-305 WAC, shall be January 1, 1997.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-01002, filed 5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]

WAC 296-305-01003 Scope and application.

(1) The rules of this chapter shall apply with respect to any and all activities, operations and equipment of employers and employees involved in providing fire protection services which are subject to the provisions of the Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act of 1973 (chapter 49.17 RCW).

(2) The provisions of this chapter apply to all fire fighters and their work places, including the fire combat scene. Although enforcement of applicable standards will result from provable violations of these standards at the fire combat scene, agents of the department will not act in any manner that will reduce or interfere with the effectiveness of the emergency response of a fire fighting unit. Activities directly related to the combating of a fire will not be subjected to the immediate restraint provisions of RCW 49.17.130.

(3) In the development of this document many consensus standards of the industry were considered and evaluated as to adaptability to the Washington state fire service industry. Where adaptable and meaningful, the fire fighter safety elements of these standards were incorporated into this WAC. Chapter 296-305 WAC, shall be considered as the fire fighter safety standards for the state of Washington.

(4) The provisions of this chapter cover existing requirements that apply to all fire departments. All fire departments shall have in place their own policy statement and operating instructions that meet or exceed these requirements. This chapter contains state and/or federal performance criteria that fire departments shall meet.

(5) Unless specifically stated otherwise by rule, if a duplication of regulations, or a conflict exists between the rules regulating wildland fire fighting and other rules in the chapter, only the rules regulating wildland fire fighting shall apply to wildland fire fighting activities and equipment.

(6) The provisions of this chapter shall be supplemented by the provisions of the general safety and health standards of the department of labor and industries, chapters 296-24, 296-62, 296-800 and 296-811 WAC. In the event of conflict between any provision(s) of this chapter and any provision(s) of the general safety and health standards, the provision(s) of this chapter shall apply.

(7) The provisions of this standard do not apply to industrial fire brigades, as defined in this chapter. Industrial fire brigades are covered under the provisions of chapter 296-811 WAC, Fire Brigades.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050, and .060. 06-01-073 (Order 05-20), § 296-305-01003, filed 12/20/05, effective 03/01/06. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050. 01-11-038 (Order 99-36), § 296-305-01003, filed 05/09/01, effective 09/01/01. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040. 99-05-080 (Order 98-14) § 296-305-01003, filed 02/17/99, effective 06/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-01003, filed 5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]

WAC 296-305-01005 Definitions. 

Unless the context indicates otherwise, words used in this chapter shall have the meaning given in this section.

Accident: An unexpected event that interrupts or interferes with the orderly progress of the fire department operations and may or may not include personal injury or property damage.

Accountability system: A system of fire fighter accountability that provides for the tracking and inventory of all members.

ACGIH: American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists.

Aerial ladder: A ladder mounted on top of an apparatus, hydraulic or pneumatic controlled.

Aerial tower: Telescopic elevating platform or water tower assembly usually with a ladder on top of the section.

Aerial platform: A device consisting of two or more booms or sections with a passenger carrying platform assembly.

ANSI: American National Standards Institute.

Apparatus: A mobile piece of fire equipment such as a pumper, aerial, tender, automobile, etc.

Approved:

(1) A method, equipment, procedure, practice, tool, etc., which is sanctioned, consented to, confirmed or accepted as good or satisfactory for a particular purpose or use by a person, or organization authorized to make such a judgment.

(2) Means approved by the director of the department of labor and industries or his/her authorized representative: Provided, however, That should a provision of this chapter state that approval by an agency or organization other than the department of labor and industries is required, such as Underwriters' Laboratories or the Bureau of Mines, the provisions of chapter 296-800 WAC shall apply.

Audiogram: A chart, graph, or table resulting from an audiometric test showing an individual's hearing threshold levels as a function of frequency.

Authorized person: A person approved or assigned by the employer to perform a specific type of duty or duties or to be at a specific location or locations at the job site.

Beacon: A flashing or rotating light.

Bloodborne pathogens: Pathogenic microorganisms that are present in human blood and can cause disease in humans. These pathogens include, but are not limited to, hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Blowup (wildfire): Sudden increase in fire intensity or rate of spread sufficient to preclude direct control or to upset existing control plans. Often accompanied by violent convection and may have other characteristics of a fire storm.

Chemical-protective clothing: Items made from chemical-resistive materials, such as clothing, hood, boots, and gloves, that are designed and configured to protect the wearer's torso, head, arms, legs, hands, and feet from hazardous materials. Chemical-protective clothing (garments) can be constructed as a single, or multi-piece, garment. The garment may completely enclose the wearer either by itself or in combination with the wearer's respiratory protection, attached or detachable hood, gloves, and boots.

Chief: The employer representative highest in rank who is responsible for the fire department's operation.

Combat scene: The site where the suppression of a fire or emergency exists.

Confinement: Those procedures taken to keep a material in a defined or local area.

Confined space: Means a space that:

(1) Is large enough and so configured that an employee can bodily enter and perform assigned work; and

(2) Has limited or restricted means for entry or exit (for example, tanks, vessels, silos, storage bins, hoppers, vaults, and pits are spaces that may have limited means of entry.); and

(3) Is not designed for continuous employee occupancy.

Containment: The actions taken to keep a material in its container (e.g. stop the release of the material or reduce the amount being released.)

Contaminated: The presence or the reasonably anticipated presence of nuisance materials foreign to the normal atmospheres, blood, hazardous waste, or other potentially infectious materials on an item or surface.

Contaminated laundry: Laundry which has been soiled with blood or other potentially infectious materials or may contain contaminated sharps.

Contamination: The process of transferring a hazardous material from its source to people, animals, the environment, or equipment, which may act as a carrier.

dBA: A measure of noise level expressed as decibels measured on the “A” scale.

Deck pipe: A permanently mounted device which delivers a large stream of water.

Decontamination:

(1) The physical or chemical process of reducing and preventing the spread of contamination from persons or equipment used at a hazardous materials incident.

(2) The use of physical or chemical means to remove, inactivate, or destroy bloodborne pathogens on a surface or item to the point where they are no longer capable of transmitting infectious particles and the surface or item is rendered safe for handling, use, or disposal.

Department: Department of labor and industries.

Director of fire department: The chief or principle administrator of the fire department.

Director: The director of the department of labor and industries, or his/her designated representative.

Disinfection: A procedure which inactivates virtually all recognized pathogenic microorganisms, but not necessarily all microbial forms (example: bacterial endospores) on inanimate objects.

Drill tower: A structure which may or may not be attached to the station and which is principally used for training fire fighters in fire service techniques.

Driver: A person having satisfactorily completed the fire department's “requirements of driver” of a specific piece of fire apparatus.

Emergency: A sudden and unexpected event calling for immediate action.

Emergency incident: A specific emergency operation.

Emergency medical care: The provision of treatment to, and/or transportation of, patients which may include first-aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, basic life support, advanced life support, and other medical procedures that occur prior to arrival at a hospital or other health care facility.

Emergency operations: Activities of the fire department relating to rescue, fire suppression, emergency medical care, and special operations, including response to the scene of an incident and all functions performed at the scene.

Employee: An employee of an employer who is employed in the business of his/her employer whether by way of manual labor or otherwise and every person in this state who is engaged in the employment of or who is working under an independent contract the essence of which is their personal labor for an employer under this chapter whether by way of manual labor or otherwise. Also see “Member.”

Employer: Any person, firm, corporation, partnership, business trust, legal representative, or other business entity which engages in any business, industry, profession, or activity in this state and employs one or more employees or who contracts with one or more persons, the essence of which is the personal labor of such person or persons and includes the state, counties, cities, and all municipal corporations, public corporations, political subdivisions of the state, and charitable organizations.

Employer representative: A fire department officer authorized by the chief or director of the fire department to act in his/her behalf.

Engine (pumper): A piece of apparatus equipped with hose and a pump for the purpose of supplying water under pressure through hose lines.

Engineering control: Any procedure other than an administrative control that reduces exposures by modifying the source or reducing the exposure to an individual. Examples of engineering controls include the use of isolation, containment, encapsulation, sound absorbing materials for noise control, and ventilation.

Explosion proof equipment: Equipment enclosed in a case that is capable of withstanding an explosion or a specified gas or vapor which may occur within it and of preventing the ignition of a specified gas or vapor surrounding the enclosure by sparks, flashes, or explosion of the gas or vapor within, and which operates at such an external temperature that it will not ignite a surrounding flammable atmosphere.

Fastest means available: The (nearest-closest) telephone, portable radio, mobile radio, telephone/radio dispatcher or any other mode of mechanical communication.

Fire apparatus: A fire department emergency vehicle used for rescue, fire suppression, or other specialized functions.

Fire boat: A fire department watercraft having a permanent, affixed fire fighting capability.

Fire combat training: Training received by fire fighters on the drill ground, drill tower, or industrial site to maintain the fire fighter's proficiency.

Fire department: An organization providing any or all of the following: Rescue, fire suppression, and other related activities. For the purposes of this standard the term “Fire Department” shall include any public, private, or military organization engaging in this type of activity.

Fire department facility: Any building or area owned, operated, occupied, or used by a fire department on a routine basis. This does not include locations where a fire department may be summoned to perform emergency operations or other duties, unless such premises are normally under the control of the fire department.

Fire department safety officer: The member of the fire department assigned and authorized as the principal safety officer to perform the duties and responsibilities specified in this standard.

Fire fighter: A member of a fire department whose duties require the performance of essential fire fighting functions or substantially similar functions.

Fire retardant: Any material used to reduce, stop or prevent the flame spread.

Fly: Extendible sections of ground or aerial ladders.

Foot stand, ladder: Devices attached to inside of beams of ladders that when folded down, provide foot space.

Ground jack: Heavy jacks attached to frame of chassis of aerial-equipped apparatus to provide stability when the aerial portion of the apparatus is used.

Ground mobile attack: The activities of wildland fire fighting with hose lines being used by personnel working around a moving engine. See mobile attack.

Guideline: An organizational directive that establishes a standard course of action.

Halyard: Rope used on extension ladders for the purpose of raising or lowering fly section(s). A wire cable may be referred to as a halyard when used on the uppermost fly section(s) of three or four section extension ladders.

Hazard communication program: A procedure to address comprehensively the issue of evaluating the potential hazards of chemicals and communicating information concerning hazards and appropriate protective measures to employees. See WAC 296-800-170, chemical hazard communication program.

Hazardous area: The immediate area where members might be exposed to a hazard.

Hazardous atmosphere: Any atmosphere, either immediately or not immediately dangerous to life or health, which is oxygen deficient or which contains a toxic or disease-producing contaminant.

Hazardous condition: The physical condition or act which is causally related to accident occurrence. The hazardous condition is related directly to both the accident type and the agency of the accident.

Hazardous material: A substance (solid, liquid, or gas) that when released is capable of creating harm to people, the environment, and property.

Hazardous substances: Substances that present an unusual risk to persons due to properties of toxicity, chemical activity, corrosivity, etiological hazards of similar properties.

HEPA filtration: High efficiency particulate air filtration found in vacuum system capable of filtering 0.3 micron particles with 99.97% efficiency.

Hose bed: Portion of fire apparatus where hose is stored.

Hose tower: A vertical enclosure where hose is hung to dry.

Hot zone: Area immediately surrounding a hazardous materials incident, which extends far enough to prevent adverse effects from hazardous materials releases to personnel outside the zone. This zone is also referred to as the exclusion zone or the restricted zone in other documents.

Identify: To select or indicate verbally or in writing using recognized standard terms. To establish the identity of; the fact of being the same as the one described.

IDLH: Immediately dangerous to life and health.

Imminent hazard (danger): An act or condition that is judged to present a danger to persons or property and is so immediate and severe that it requires immediate corrective or preventative action.

Incident commander: The person in overall command of an emergency incident. This person is responsible for the direction and coordination of the response effort.

Incident command system (ICS): A system that includes: Roles, responsibilities, operating requirements, guidelines and procedures for organizing and operating an on-scene management structure.

Incipient (phase) fire: The beginning of a fire; where the oxygen content in the air has not been significantly reduced and the fire is producing minute amounts of water vapor, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and other gases; the room has a normal temperature and can be controlled or extinguished with a portable fire extinguisher or small hose, e.g., a kitchen stove fire.

Industrial fire brigade: An organized group of employees whose primary employment is other than fire fighting, who are knowledgeable, trained and skilled in specialized operations based on site-specific hazards present at a single commercial facility or facilities under the same management.

Initial stage (initial action): Shall encompass the control efforts taken by resources which are first to arrive at an incident.

Injury: Physical damage suffered by a person that requires treatment by a practitioner of medicine (a physician, nurse, paramedic or EMT) within one year of the incident regardless of whether treatment was actually received.

Interior structural fire fighting: The physical activity of fire suppression, rescue or both, inside of buildings or enclosed structures which are involved in a fire situation beyond the incipient stage. See structural fire fighting.

Life safety or rescue rope: Rope dedicated solely for the purpose of constructing lines for supporting people during rescue, fire fighting, or other emergency operations, or during training evolutions.

Line: Rope when in use.

Live fire training: Any fire set within a structure, tank, pipe, pan, etc., under controlled conditions to facilitate the training of fire fighters under actual fire conditions.

Locking in: The act of securing oneself to a ladder by hooking a leg over a rung and placing top of foot against the other leg or against the ladder.

Manned station: See staffed station.

May: A permissive use or an alternative method to a specified requirement.

Member: A person involved in performing the duties and responsibilities of a fire department under the auspices of the organization. A fire department member may be a full-time or part-time employee or a paid or unpaid volunteer, may occupy any position or rank within the fire department, and engages in emergency operations. Also see Employee.

Mobile attack: The act of fighting wildland fires from a moving engine.

Monitor: A portable appliance that delivers a large stream of water.

Mop up: The act of making a wildfire/wildland fire safe after it is controlled, such as extinguishing or removing burning materials along or near the control line, felling snags, trenching logs to prevent rolling.

NFPA: National Fire Protection Association.

NIIMS: National Interagency Incident Management System.

NIOSH: National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health.

Nondestructive testing: A test to determine the characteristics or properties of a material or substance that does not involve its destruction or deterioration.

Nonskid: The surface treatment that lessens the tendency of a foreign substance to reduce the coefficient of friction between opposing surfaces.

Occupational exposure: Means reasonably anticipated skin, eye, mucous membrane or parenteral contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials that may result from the performance of an employee's duties.

Officer:

(1) Person in charge of a particular task or assignment.

(2) A supervisor.

OSHA: Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

Other potentially infectious materials (OPIM):

(1) The following body fluids: Semen, vaginal secretions, cerebrospinal fluid, synovial fluid, pleural fluid, pericardial fluid, peritoneal fluid, amniotic fluid, saliva in dental procedures, any body fluid that is visibly contaminated with blood, and all body fluids in situations where it is difficult or impossible to differentiate between body fluids;

(2) Any unfixed tissue or organ (other than intact skin) from a human (living or dead); and

(3) HIV-containing cell or tissue cultures, organ cultures, and HIV-or HBV-containing culture medium or other solutions; and blood, organs, or other tissues from experimental animals infected with HIV or HBV.

Outrigger: Manually or hydraulically operated metal enclosures and jacks which are extended and placed in contact with the ground to give the apparatus a wide, solid base to support different loads.

Overhauling: That portion of fire extinguishment involving discovery of hidden fires or smoldering material.

PASS: Personal alert safety system.

PEL: Permissible exposure limit.

Personal protective equipment (PPE):

(1) The equipment provided to shield or isolate a person from the chemical, physical, and thermal hazards that may be encountered at a hazardous materials incident. Personal protective equipment includes both personal protective clothing and respiratory protection. Adequate personal protective equipment should protect the respiratory system, skin, eyes, face, hands, feet, head, body, and hearing.

(2) Specialized clothing or equipment worn by an employee for protection against a hazard. General work clothes (e.g., uniforms, pants, shirts, or blouses) not intended to function as protection against a hazard are not considered to be personal protective equipment.

Place of employment: Any premises, room or other place where an employee or employees are employed for the performance of labor or service over which the employer has the right of access or control. For the purposes of this code, fireground and emergency scenes are also considered places of employment.

Platform: The portion of a telescoping or articulating boom used as a working surface.

Positive communication: Visual, audible, physical, safety guide rope, or electronic means which allows for two way message generation and reception.

PPE: Personal protective equipment.

Prefire training: The training of fire fighters in recognizing sources and locations of potential fires and the method of fire combat to be used.

Probable fatality:

(1) An occupational injury or illness, which, by the doctor's prognosis, could lead to death.

(2) An occupational injury or illness, which by its very nature, is considered life threatening.

Protective clothing: Equipment designed to protect the wearer from heat and/or hazardous materials contacting the skin or eyes. Protective clothing is divided into five types:

(1) Structural fire fighting protective clothing;

(2) Liquid splash-protective clothing;

(3) Vapor-protective clothing;

(4) High temperature-protective proximity clothing; and

(5) Wildland fire fighting clothing.

Note: See Protective ensemble.

Protective ensemble: Multiple elements of clothing and equipment designed to provide a degree of protection for fire fighters from adverse exposures to the inherent risks of structural fire fighting operations and certain other emergency operations. The elements of the protective ensemble are helmets, coats, trousers, gloves, footwear, interface components (hoods), and if applicable, personal alert system (PASS) devices, and self-contained breathing apparatus.

Proximity protective clothing: Radiant reflective protective garments configured as a coat and trousers, or as a coverall, and interface components that are designed to provide protection for the fire fighter's body from conductive, convective, and radiant heat.

Pumper: See engine.

Qualified: One who by possession of a recognized degree, certificate or professional standing, or who by knowledge, training or experience has successfully demonstrated his/her ability to solve or resolve problems related to the subject matter, the work or the project.

Rapid intervention team (RIT): On-scene team of at least two members designated, dedicated and equipped to effect an immediate rescue operation if the need arises.

RCW: Revised Code of Washington.

Rescue: Those activities directed at locating endangered persons at an emergency incident and removing those persons from danger.

Rescue craft: Any fire department watercraft used for rescue operations.

Respirator: A device designed to protect the wearer from breathing harmful atmospheres. See respiratory protection.

Respiratory equipment: Self-contained breathing apparatus designed to provide the wearer with a supply of respirable atmosphere carried in or generated by the breathing apparatus. When in use, this breathing apparatus requires no intake of air or oxygen from the outside atmosphere.

(1) Respirators (closed circuit): Those types of respirators which retain exhaled air in the system and recondition such air for breathing again.

(2) Respirators (open circuit): Those types of respirators which exhaust exhaled air to the outside of the mask into the ambient air.

(3) Respirators (demand): Those types of respirators whose input air to the mask is started when a negative pressure is generated by inhalation.

(4) Respirators (pressure demand): Those types of respirators which constantly and automatically maintain a positive pressure in the mask by the introduction of air when the positive pressure is lowered (usually from .018 psi to .064 psi) through the process of inhalation or leakage from the mask.

Respiratory protection: Equipment designed to protect the wearer from the inhalation of contaminants. Respiratory protection is divided into three types:

(1) Positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA);

(2) Positive pressure airline respirators;

(3) Negative pressure air purifying respirators.

Responding: The usual reference to the act of responding or traveling to an alarm or request for assistance.

Risk assessment: To set or determine the possibility of suffering harm or loss, and to what extent.

Safe and healthful working environment: The work surroundings of an employee with minimum exposure to unsafe acts and/or unsafe conditions.

Safety officer: Either the fire department safety officer or an assistant safety officer (see fire department safety officer).

Safety net: A rope or nylon strap net not to exceed 6-inch mesh, stretched and suspended above ground level at the base of drill tower, and at such a height that a falling body would be arrested prior to striking the ground.

Scabbard: A guard which will prevent accidental injury and covers the blade and pick of an axe or other sharp instrument when worn by the fire fighter.

SCBA: Self contained breathing apparatus.

Service testing: The regular, periodic inspection and testing of apparatus and equipment according to an established schedule and procedure, to insure that it is in safe and functional operating condition.

Shall: Mandatory.

Should: Recommended.

Signalman: A person so positioned that he/she can direct the driver when the drivers vision is obstructed or obscured.

SOP: Standard operating procedure or guidelines.

Staffed station: A fire station continuously occupied by fire fighters on scheduled work shifts. The staffed station may also serve as headquarters for volunteers.

Standard operating procedure or guidelines: An organizational directive that establishes a standard course of action. See SOP.

Station (fire station): Structure in which fire service apparatus and/or personnel are housed.

Structural fire fighting: The activities of rescuing, fire suppression, and property conservation involving buildings, enclosed structures, vehicles, vessels, or similar properties that are involved in a fire or emergency situation. See interior structural fire fighting.

Structural fire fighting protective clothing: This category of clothing, often called turnout or bunker gear, means the protective clothing normally worn by fire fighters during structural fire fighting operations. It includes a helmet, coat, pants, boots, gloves, and a hood. Structural fire fighters' protective clothing provides limited protection from heat but may not provide adequate protection from the harmful gases, vapors, liquids, or dusts that are encountered during hazardous materials incidents.

Support function: A hazardous chemical operation involving controlled chemical uses or exposures in nonflammable atmospheres with minimum threats in loss of life, personnel injury, or damage to property or to the environment. Functions include decontamination, remedial cleanup of identified chemicals, and training.

Support function protective garment: A chemical-protective suit that meets the requirements of NFPA Standard on Support Function Garments, 1993.

Tail/running board: Standing space on the side or rear of an engine or pumper apparatus.

Team: Two or more individuals who are working together in positive communication with each other through visual, audible, physical, safety guide rope, electronic, or other means to coordinate their activities and who are in close proximity to each other to provide assistance in case of emergency.

Tillerman: Rear driver of tractor-trailer aerial ladder.

Trench: A narrow excavation made below the surface of the ground. The depth is generally greater than the width, but the width of a trench is not greater than 15 feet.

Turnout clothing: See structural fire fighting protective clothing.

Turntable: The rotating surface located at the base of an aerial ladder, or boom, on aerial apparatus.

Universal precaution: An approach to infection control. According to the concept of universal precautions, all human blood and certain human body fluids are treated as if known to be infectious for HIV, HBV, and other bloodborne pathogens.

Vapor barrier: Material used to prevent or substantially inhibit the transfer of water, corrosive liquids and steam or other hot vapors from the outside of a garment to the wearer's body.

Variance: An allowed or authorized deviation from specific standard(s) when an employer substitutes measures which afford an equal degree of safety. Variances are issued as temporary or permanent with interim measures issued, when requested, until a determination or decision is made.

Vessel: Means every description of watercraft or other artificial contrivance used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water, including special-purpose floating structures not primarily designed for or used as a means of transportation on water.

WAC: Washington Administrative Code.

Wheel blocks (chocks): A block or wedge placed under a wheel to prevent motion.

Wildfire: An unplanned and unwanted fire requiring suppression action; an uncontrolled fire, usually spreading through vegetative fuels and often threatening structures.

Wildland fire: A fire burning in natural vegetation that requires an individual or crew(s) to expend more than one hour of labor to confine, control and extinguish. Agencies may substitute crews to avoid the one hour bench mark or increase crew size to complete the job in less than one hour. One hour was chosen as the maximum time that individuals should work in high temperatures in structural protective clothing.

Wildland fire fighting enclosure: A fire apparatus enclosure with a minimum of three sides and a bottom.

WISHA: Washington Industrial Safety Health Act.

Work environment: The surrounding conditions, influences or forces to which an employee is exposed while working.

Workplace: See place of employment.

WRD: WISHA regional directive.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050. 01-11-038 (Order 99-36), § 296-305-01005, filed 05/09/01, effective 09/01/01. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040. 99-05-080 (Order 98-14) § 296-305-01005, filed 02/17/99, effective 06/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-01005, filed 5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]

WAC 296-305-01007 Variance and procedure.

(1) Conditions may exist in operations that a state standard will not have practical use. The director may issue a variance from the requirements of the standard when another means of providing equal protection is provide.

(2) Applications for variances will be reviewed and investigated by the department. Variances granted shall be limited to the specific WAC code covered in the application and may be revoked for cause. The variance shall remain prominently posted on the premises while in effect.

Note: Variance forms may be obtained from the department upon request. Requests for variance from safety and health standards shall be made in writing to the assistant director, Consultation and Compliance Services Division, Department of Labor and Industries, P.O. Box 44600, Olympia, Washington 98504-4600. (Reference RCW 49.17.080 and 49.17.090.)

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 295-305-01007, filed 5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]

WAC 296-305-01009 Appeals. 

Any party authorized to appeal from an action of the department as set forth in RCW 49.17.140(3), may do so by filing a notice of appeal in writing. The appeal must contain the recommended subject matter, as noted below, by serving a copy of such notice of appeal either in person or by mail upon the assistant director of the Consultation and Compliance Services Division, (7273 Linderson Way, Tumwater, Washington) P.O. Box 44600, Olympia, Washington 98504-4600. The appeal must be sent to the department within fifteen working days of the communication of the notice.

The notice of appeal should contain:

(1) The name and address of the appealing party and his/her representative if any;

(2) The place where the alleged safety violation occurred;

(3) A statement identifying the order, decision or citation appealed from, by report number and date of issuance;

(4) The grounds upon which the appealing party considers such order, decision, or citation to be unjust or unlawful;

(5) A statement of facts in support of each grounds stated;

(6) The relief sought, including the specific nature and extent;

(7) A statement that the person signing the notice of appeal has read it and to the best of his/her knowledge, information and belief there is good ground to support it. A notice of appeal may be signed by the party or by his/her authorized representative.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050, and .060. 07-03-163 (Order 06-30), § 296-305-01009, filed 01/24/07, effective 04/01/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050. 01-11-038 (Order 99-36), § 296-305-01009, filed 05/09/01, effective 09/01/01. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-01009, filed 5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]

WAC 296-305-01501 Injury and illness reports for fire fighters.

(1) Notice of injury or illness.

(a) Whenever an occupational accident causes injury or illness to a fire fighter or other employee, or whenever a fire fighter or other employee becomes aware of an illness apparently caused by occupational exposure, it shall be the duty of such a fire fighter or other employee, or someone on his/her behalf, to report the injury or illness to the employer before the end of his/her duty period but not later than twenty-four hours after the incident.

(b) Exception: In the event that symptoms of an occupational injury or illness are not apparent at the time of the incident, the employee shall report the symptoms to his/her employer within forty-eight hours after becoming aware of the injury or illness.

(c) Within eight hours after the fatality or probable fatality of any fire fighter or employee from a work-related incident or the inpatient hospitalization of any employee as a result of a work-related incident, the employer of any employees so affected, shall orally report the fatality/hospitalization by telephone or in person, to the nearest office of the department or by using the OSHA toll-free central telephone number, 1-800-321-6742.

(i) This requirement applies to each such fatality or hospitalization which occurs within thirty days of the incident.

(ii) Exception: If any employer does not learn of a reportable incident at the time it occurs and the incident would otherwise be reportable under this subsection, the employer shall make a report within eight hours of the time the incident is reported to any agent or employee of the employer.

(iii) Each report required by this subsection shall relate the following information: Establishment name, location of the incident, time of the incident, number of fatalities or hospitalized employees, contact person, phone number, and a brief description of the incident.

(2) Recordkeeping - written reports; all fire service employers shall maintain records of occupational injuries and illnesses. Reportable cases include every occupational death, every occupational illness, or each injury that involves one of the following: Unconsciousness, inability to perform all phases of regular duty-related assignment, inability to work full time on duty, temporary assignment, or medical treatment beyond first-aid.

(3) All fire departments shall record occupational injury and illnesses on forms OSHA 101-Supplementary Record Occupational Injuries and Illnesses and OSHA 200-Log summary. Forms other than OSHA 101 may be substituted for the Supplementary Record of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses if they contain the same items.

(4) Each employer shall post an annual summary of occupational injuries and illnesses for each establishment. This summary shall consist of a copy of the year's totals from the Form OSHA No. 200 and the following information from that form: Calendar year covered, company name, establishment name, establishment address, certification signature, title, and date. A Form OSHA No. 200 shall be used in presenting the summary. If no injuries or illnesses occurred in the year, zeros must be entered on the totals line, and the form must be posted. The summary shall be completed by February 1 each calendar year. The summary covering the previous calendar year shall be posted no later than February 1, and shall remain in place until March 1.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050, and .060. 08-05-012 Order 07-44, §296-305-01501, filed 02/08/08, effective 04/01/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-01501, filed 5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]

WAC 296-305-01503 Accident investigation.

(1) After the emergency actions following accidents that cause serious injuries that have immediate symptoms, a preliminary investigation of the cause of the accident shall be conducted. The investigation shall be conducted by a person designated by the employer. The fire department shall establish a written procedure and a program for investigating, and evaluating the facts, relating to the cause of accidents. The findings of the investigation shall be documented by the employer for reference at any following formal investigations.

(2) Within eight hours after the fatality or probable fatality of any fire fighter or employee from a work-related incident or the inpatient hospitalization of two or more employees as a result of a work-related incident, the employer of any employees so affected, shall orally report the fatality/multiple hospitalization by telephone or in person, to the nearest office of the department or by using the OSHA toll-free central telephone number, 1-800-321-6742.

(3) Equipment involved in an accident resulting in an immediate or probable fatality, shall not be moved, until a representative of the consultation and compliance services division investigates the accident and releases such equipment, except where removal is essential to prevent further accident. When necessary to remove the victim, such equipment may be moved only to the extent of making possible such removal.

(4) Upon arrival of the department's investigator, the employer shall assign to assist the investigator such personnel as are deemed necessary by the department to conduct the investigation.

(5) The fire department shall preserve all records, photographic materials, audio, video, recordings, or other documentation concerning an accident.

Reference:

WAC 296-24-020 (2), (3).

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-01503, filed 5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]

WAC 296-305-01505 Accident prevention program.

(1) All fire departments shall develop and implement a written safety program.

(2) Fire department safety programs shall have an assigned safety officer.

(3) Each employer shall develop a formal accident-prevention program, tailored to the needs of the fire department and to the type of hazards involved. The department of labor and industries' consultation and compliance services division may be contacted for assistance in developing appropriate programs.

(a) A safety orientation program describing the employer's safety program shall include:

(i) How and when to report injuries, including instruction as to the location of first-aid facilities.

(ii) How to report unsafe conditions and practices.

(iii) The use and care of required personal protective equipment.

(iv) The proper actions to take in event of emergencies including the routes of exiting from areas during emergencies.

(v) Identification of the hazardous gases, chemicals or materials involved, along with the instructions on the safe use and emergency action following accidental exposure.

(vi) A description of the employer's total safety program.

(vii) An on-the-job review of the practices necessary to perform the initial job assignments in a safe manner.

(4) Fire departments shall have a safety committee to serve in an advisory capacity to the fire chief. The number of employer-selected members shall not exceed the number of employee-elected members.

(5) The frequency of safety meetings shall be determined by the safety committee, but shall not be less than one hour per calendar quarter, however, special meetings may be held at the request of either party.

(6) Minutes shall be taken of all safety meetings. After review by the chief or his/her designee the minutes shall be conspicuously posted at all stations.

(7) Employee submitted written suggestions or complaints shall be considered. Action recommendations by the committee shall be transmitted in writing to the fire chief. The chief or his/her designated agent will reply to the submitter.

(8) Inspections of fire stations shall be made at least monthly and records maintained to ensure that stations are reasonably free of recognized hazards. These inspections shall include, but not be limited to, tools, apparatus, extinguishers, protective equipment, and life safety equipment.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-01505, filed 5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]

WAC 296-305-01507 Fire department safety officer.

(1) The duties and responsibilities of the fire department safety officer shall include, but are not limited to:

(a) Plan and coordinate safety activities.

(b) Work closely with the safety committee.

(c) Ensure accidents are investigated.

(d) Devise corrective measures to prevent accidents.

(2) Realizing safety training and recordkeeping are management's responsibility, the fire department safety officer shall ensure the following requirements are being met:

(a) Ensure safety training for all employees.

(b) Ensure safety directives are complied with.

(c) Ensure that records are kept, but not limited to the following:

(i) Accidents

(ii) Injuries

(iii) Inspections

(iv) Exposures

(v) Medical Monitoring

(vi) Safety meetings

(vii) Apparatus

(viii) Equipment

(ix) Protective clothing

(x) Other fire department safety activities

(3) The fire department safety officer, through the fire chief, shall have the authority and responsibility to identify and recommend correction of safety and health hazards.

(4) The fire department safety officer shall maintain a liaison with staff officers regarding recommended changes in equipment, procedures, and recommended methods to eliminate unsafe practices and reduce existing hazardous conditions.

Additional Reference:

NFPA 1521 Standard for Fire Department Safety Officer, may be used as a guide for duties and responsibilities relating to the safety officer.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-01507, filed 5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]

WAC 296-305-01509 Management's responsibility.

(1) It shall be the responsibility of management to establish, supervise, maintain, and enforce, in a manner which is effective in practice:

(a) A safe and healthful working environment, as it applies to noncombat conditions or to combat conditions at a fire scene after the fire has been extinguished, as determined by the officer in charge.

(b) An accident prevention program as required by this chapter.

(c) Programs for training employees in the fundamentals of accident prevention.

(d) Procedures to be used by the fire department safety officer and incident commander to ensure that emergency medical care is provided for members on duty.

(e) An accident investigation program as required by this chapter.

(2) The fire department shall be responsible for providing suitable expertise to comply with all testing requirements in this chapter. Such expertise may be secured from within the fire department, from equipment and apparatus manufacturers, or other suitable sources.

(3) Members who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs shall not participate in any fire department operations or other functions. This rule does not apply to persons taking prescription drugs as directed by a physician or dentist providing such use does not endanger the worker or others.

(4) Alcoholic beverages shall not be allowed in station houses, except at those times when station houses are used as community centers, with the approval of management.

(5) A bulletin board or posting area exclusively for safety and health and large enough to display the required safety and health posters. The WISHA poster (WISHA form F416-081-909) and other safety education material shall be provided. A bulletin board of “white background” and “green trim” is recommended.

(6) The fire department shall develop and maintain a hazard communication program as required by WAC 296-800-170, which will provide information to all employees relative to hazardous chemicals or substances to which they are exposed, or may routinely be exposed to, in the course of their employment.

(7) Personnel.

(a) The employer shall assure that employees who are expecting to do interior structural fire fighting are physically capable of performing duties that may be assigned to them during emergencies.

(b) The employer shall not permit employees with known physical limitations reasonably identifiable to the employer, for example, heart disease or seizure disorder, to participate in structural fire fighting emergency activities unless the employee has been released by a physician to participate in such activities.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050. 01-11-038 (Order 99-36), § 296-305-01509, filed 05/09/01, effective 09/01/01. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040. 99-05-080 (Order 98-14), § 296-305-01509, filed 02/17/99, effective 06/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-01509, filed 5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]

WAC 296-305-01511 Employee's responsibility.

(1) Fire fighters shall cooperate with the employer and other employees in efforts to eliminate accidents.

(2) Each fire fighter or other employee shall comply with the provisions of this chapter which are applicable to his/her own actions and conduct in the course of his/her employment.

(3) Fire fighters and other employees shall notify the appropriate employer representative of unsafe work practices and of unsafe conditions of equipment, apparatus, or work places.

(4) Fire fighters and other employees shall apply the principles of accident prevention in their work. They shall use all required safety devices, protective equipment, and safety practices, as provided and/or developed by management.

(5) Each fire fighter shall take proper care of all personal protective equipment.

(6) Fire fighters shall attend, when on duty, required training and/or orientation programs designed to increase their competency in occupational safety and health.

(7) Fire fighters who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs shall not participate in any fire department operations or other functions. This rule does not apply to persons taking prescription drugs as directed by a physician or dentist providing such use does not endanger the worker or others.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-01511, filed 5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]

WAC 296-305-01513 Safe place standards.

(1) Every employer shall furnish and require the use of appropriate safety devices and safeguards. All fire fighting methods, and operations shall be so designed as to promote the safety and health of employees. The employer shall do everything reasonably necessary to protect the safety and health of employees.

(2) No fire fighter or other employee, employer or employer representative shall:

(a) Remove, displace, damage, destroy or carry off any safety device, safeguard, notice or warning furnished for use in any employment or place of employment.

(b) Interfere in any way with the use of any safety device, method or process adopted for the protection of any employee.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-01513, filed 5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]

WAC 296-305-01515 First-aid training and certification.

(1) All fire fighters except directors of fire departments and the directors' designated personnel, shall have as a minimum first-aid training as evidenced by a current, valid first-aid card, EMT or First Responder certification.

(2) New fire fighters shall have such first-aid training within 90 days of the date of their employment or enroll for training in the next available class for which they are eligible.

(3) Fire service duties include exposure to bloodborne pathogens. The requirements of this section and chapter 296-823 WAC, Occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens, shall apply.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. 04-07-160 (Order 03-31), § 296-305-01515, filed 3/23/04, effective 5/1/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050, and .060. 03-09-110 (Order 02-29), § 296-305-01515, filed 04/22/03, effective 08/01/03. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050. 01-11-038 (Order 99-36), § 296-305-01515, filed 05/09/01, effective 09/01/01. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-01515, filed 5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]

WAC 296-305-01517 First-aid kits.

(1) To assure the emergency medical care of the fire fighters there shall be present at each emergency incident at least the following items:

1 (one) utility scissors, EMT-type

1 CPR barrier

3 (three) rolls 1 inch adhesive tape

6 (six) 4" x 4" sterile, individually wrapped gauze pads

4 (four) combination pads, sterile, individually wrapped

4 (four) soft roller bandages, assorted size, sterile, individually wrapped cling type

2 (two) burn sheets, sterile, individually wrapped

2 (two) triangular bandages

1 (one) multi-trauma dressing, sterile

2 (two) supply disposable gloves

2 (two) wire splints or equivalent

(2) All fire stations shall maintain a first-aid kit. The kit shall contain at least the following items:

6 (six) 4" x 4" sterile, individually wrapped gauze pads

4 (four) combination pads, sterile, individually wrapped

2 (two) rolls 1 inch adhesive tape

4 (four) soft roller bandages, assorted size, sterile, individually wrapped cling type

2 (two) triangular bandages

1 (one) utility scissors, EMT-type

1 (one) pair tweezers

1 (one) package assorted adhesive bandages

(3) All fire apparatus shall contain a first-aid kit as described in WAC 296-800-150.

(4) All fire departments providing emergency medical services to the public shall conform to the requirements of chapter 18.73 RCW Emergency Care and Transportation Services (and if applicable, chapter 248-17 WAC, Ambulance Rules and Regulations) which require additional first-aid equipment.

Additional references:

Chapter 296-800 WAC.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050. 01-11-038 (Order 99-36), § 296-305-01517, filed 05/09/01, effective 09/01/01. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-01517, filed 5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]

WAC 296-305-02001 Personal protective equipment and protective clothing.

Note: For wildland fire fighting personal protective equipment and clothing requirements see WAC 296-305-07003, Personal protective clothing and equipment for wildland fire fighting.

(1) Employers shall provide and maintain at no cost to the employee the appropriate protective ensemble/protective clothing to protect from the hazards to which the member is or is likely to be exposed. Employers shall ensure the use of all protective equipment and clothing required by this standard. Employers shall assure that the protective clothing and equipment ordered or purchased after the effective date of this standard meets the requirements of this standard. Full protective equipment designated for the task, shall be worn for all department activities.

(2) Fire fighters shall be trained in the function, donning and doffing, care, use, inspection, maintenance and limitations of the protective equipment assigned to them or available for their use.

(3) Protective clothing and protective equipment shall be used and maintained in accordance with manufacturer's instructions. A written maintenance, repair, retirement, servicing, and inspection program shall be established for protective clothing and equipment. Specific responsibilities shall be assigned for inspection and maintenance. This requirement applies to fire fighter's personally owned equipment as well as equipment issued by the employer.

(4) The fire department shall provide for the cleaning of protective clothing and contaminated station/work uniforms at no cost to the employee. Such cleaning shall be performed by either a cleaning service, or at a fire department facility, that is equipped to handle contaminated clothing.

Note: See Appendix A.

(5) Personal protective equipment and clothing shall be of a type specified by NIOSH, MSHA, NFPA, ANSI, or as specifically referenced in the appropriate section of this chapter.

(6) Station/work uniforms. Station/work uniforms are not themselves intended as primary protective garments.

(a) Station/work uniforms if provided, shall meet the requirements as specified in the 1990 or 1994 edition of NFPA 1975.

(b) All station/work uniforms purchased after the effective date of this regulation shall meet the requirements set forth in this standard.

(c) Station/work uniforms include trousers, and/or coveralls, but exclude shirts, underwear, and socks.

(d) Members shall not wear any clothing that is determined to be unsafe due to poor thermal stability or poor flame resistance when engaged in or exposed to the hazards of structural fire fighting. Because it is impossible to ensure that every member will respond to an incident in a station/work uniform or will change out of fabrics that have poor thermal stability or ignite easily, before donning protective garments, the fire department shall inform members of the hazards of fabrics that melt, drip, burn, stick to the skin and cause burns to the wearer due to poor thermal stability or poor flame resistance.

(e) Garments meeting the requirements of WAC 296-305-07003(1), meet the intent of this section.

(f) Station/work uniforms purchased prior to the effective date of this chapter shall be acceptable for a period of two years or until the employers current inventory has been exhausted, whichever comes first.

(7) Turnout clothing/pants and coat:

Proximity clothing:

(a) All turnout clothing used as proximity clothing shall meet the requirements of NFPA, 1976 Standard on Protective Clothing for Proximity Fire Fighting, 1992 edition.

(b) There shall be at least a two-inch overlap of all layers of the protective coat and the protective trousers so there is no gaping of the total thermal protection when the protective garments are worn. The minimum overlap shall be determined by measuring the garments on the wearer, without SCBA, with the wearer in the most stretched position, hands together reaching overhead as high as possible.

(c) Single piece protective coveralls shall not be required to have an overlap of all layers as long as there is continuous full thermal protection.

(d) Fire departments that provide protective coats with protective resilient wristlets secured through a thumb opening may provide gloves of the gauntlet type for use with these protective coats. Fire departments that do not provide such wristlets attached to all protective coats shall provide gloves of the wristlet type for use with these protective coats.

(8) Structural fire fighting clothing.

(a) All turnout clothing purchased after the effective date of these regulations shall meet the requirements of the 1991 edition of NFPA, Standard on Protective Clothing for Structural Fire Fighting 1971 or the 1997 edition of NFPA, Standard on Protective Ensemble for Structural Fire Fighting 1971. In no case, shall fire fighters wear personal protective clothing manufactured prior to the 1986 edition, NFPA, Standard on Protective Clothing for Structural Fire Fighting 1971.

(b) Turnout clothing shall be maintained as specified by the manufacturer.

(c) Repairs to turnout clothing shall be done to the manufacturers specification by qualified individuals approved by the manufacturer. Repairs must be made using materials and methods in accordance with the applicable standards under which the article was produced. Repairs include any and all alterations, modifications, additions, deletions or any other change made to the manufacturers PPE article.

(d) Turnout clothing which is damaged or does not comply with this section shall not be used.

(e) All turnout clothing shall be inspected semi-annually by an individual qualified by the employer. Inspection intervals shall not exceed six months.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040. 99-05-080 (Order 98-14), § 296-305-02001, filed 02/17/99, effective 06/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-02001, filed 5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]

WAC 296-305-02003 Eye and face protection.

(1) Face and eye protection shall be provided for and used by fire fighters engaged in fire suppression and other operations involving hazards to the eye and face at all times when the face is not protected by the full facepiece of the SCBA. Primary face and eye protection appropriate for a given specific hazard shall be provided for, and used by, members exposed to that specific hazard. Such primary face and eye protection shall meet the requirements of ANSI Z87.1, 1989 edition.

(2) Persons whose vision requires the use of corrective lenses in spectacles, and who are required by this standard to wear eye protection, shall wear goggles or spectacles of one of the following types:

(a) Spectacles with protective lenses that provide optical correction.

(b) Goggles that can be worn over corrective spectacles without disturbing the adjustment of the spectacles.

(c) Goggles that incorporate corrective lenses mounted behind the protective lens.

(3) When limitations or precautions are indicated by the manufacturer, they shall be transmitted to the user and care taken to see such limitations and precautions are strictly observed.

(4) Care, use, and maintenance for any type of eye or face protection shall follow the manufacturers suggested recommendations.

(5) Goggles shall be inspected, cleaned and disinfected prior to being reissued to other employees.

Note: The helmet face shield alone does not always provide adequate eye protection against flying particles, splash, gases and vapors. For known eye hazards, such as, but not limited to, cutting with power saws, chopping, drilling and using extrication equipment, the face shield should be worn with additional eye protection.

(6) Helmet face shields shall meet the requirements of NFPA, Standard Helmets for Structural Fire Fighting 1972, 1992 edition.

(7) For fire fighters that do not have a helmet face shield for eye and face protection, flexible or cushioned fitting goggles shall be provided.

(8) Goggles shall consist of a wholly flexible frame, forming a lens holder or a rigid frame with integral lens or lenses, having a separate, cushioned fitting surface on the full periphery of the facial contact area.

(a) Materials used shall be chemical-resistant, nontoxic, nonirritating and slow burning.

(b) There shall be a positive means of support on the face, such as an adjustable headband of suitable material or other appropriate means of support to retain the frame comfortable and snugly in front of the eyes.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040.99-05-080 (Order 98-14), §296-305-02003, filed 02/17/99, effective 06/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-02003, filed 5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]

WAC 296-305-02005 Hearing protection.

Fire departments must address noise issues as required by chapter 296-817 WAC, Hearing loss prevention (noise), and WAC 296-305-02005.

Note: Although noise levels may exceed the 115 dBA ceiling limit for noise exposures during structural fire fighting activities, hearing protection that will survive these conditions and not interfere with other essential gear may not always be available. Fire departments must consider daily noise exposures and exposures to noise outside direct fire fighting activities when selecting hearing protection and may use less protection during direct fire protection when adequate hearing protection in not technically feasible.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050, and .060. 03-11-060 (Order 02-16), § 296-305-02005, filed 05/19/03, effective 08/01/03. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-02005, filed 5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]

WAC 296-305-02007 Hand protection.

(1) Fire fighters' gloves shall when worn with turnout clothing, provide protection to the wrist area. In turnout clothing where wristlet protection is not provided fire fighters' gloves shall be closed at the top.

(2) Fire departments shall establish written policy and procedure for the care, use, cleaning, replacement and/or retirement criteria, and maintenance of gloves issued.

(3) Gloves purchased after the effective date of this chapter shall comply with this section.

(4) Fire fighters' gloves used during structural fire fighting operations including rescue of victims from fires, and emergency medical operations where sharp or rough surfaces are likely to be encountered such as victim extrications shall meet the requirements of the 1993 edition of NFPA, Standard on Gloves for Structural Fire Fighting 1973 or the 1997 edition of NFPA, Standard on Protective Ensemble for Structural Fire Fighting 1971.

(5) Fire fighters gloves are not designed to provide protection to all environments. For gloves desired to fill the needs of a specific requirement see that specific section of this chapter. It is the intent of this section to provide protection from intrusion throughout the glove body by certain common chemicals, and from bloodborne pathogens. Fire departments shall consult the manufacturer's recommendation.

Note: Fire fighters should have their hands sized for compliance with the sizing chart as specified in NFPA, Standard on Gloves for Structural Fire Fighting 1973, 1993 edition.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040 99-05-080 (Order 98-14), § 296-305-02007, filed 02/17/99, effective 06/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-02007, filed 5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]

WAC 296-305-02009 Body protection.

(1) Body protection shall be coordinated with torso, hand, head, foot, respiratory, and face protection as outlined in WAC 296-305-02001 through 296-305-02019.

(2) Fire departments shall establish written procedures for the use of components of any or all portions of protective equipment.

(3) Fire departments that provide structural and wildfire suppression shall establish written procedures for the use of protective clothing on structural and wildfire suppression activities.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. 96-11-067, § 296-305-02009, filed 5/10/96, effective 1/1/97.]

WAC 296-305 Continued