6 performing apparatus check-out and maintenance

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Performing Apparatus Check-Out

and Maintenance

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Knowledge Objectives (1 of 4)

• Describe the inspection and maintenance procedures required by your fire department.

• Describe the inspection and maintenance procedures recommended by the manufacturer on each of the fire apparatus that you will be required to inspect, test, or maintain.

• Describe the items on the written inspection and maintenance forms required to be completed by your fire department.

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• Describe the procedures to be followed when an inspection reveals maintenance problems beyond the scope of the driver/operator’s abilities.

• Describe the type of problems found during the inspection and routine maintenance of fire apparatus that warrant taking the fire apparatus or equipment out of service.

• Describe the equipment carried on fire apparatus that requires inspection and maintenance.

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• Describe the routine maintenance procedures or adjustments to be completed by the driver/operator.

• Describe the maintenance procedures and items that will be performed by specially trained personnel other than the driver/operator.

• Describe the process to initiate required maintenance procedures.

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• Describe the schedule for routine inspection and maintenance procedures for all fire apparatus and equipment that the driver/operator will be responsible for inspecting, maintaining, or testing.

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Skills Objectives

• Perform the daily inspection of fire apparatus and equipment in a safe and effective manner.

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Introduction (1 of 4)

• Driver/operator duties– Safely drive apparatus – Operate equipment on apparatus – Inspect and maintain apparatus

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• Apparatus must be ready to respond and perform on the emergency scene as it was designed.– Apparatus equipped with pump must be

capable of flowing water at required pressures.

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• Quality preventive maintenance program ensures that:– Apparatus are adequately maintained by

qualified and trained personnel.– Vehicles are inspected regularly by those who

use them.– Documentation is accurate and complete.

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• Many departments perform inspections at least daily. – Apparatus must be maintained and ready to

respond to emergencies on a moment’s notice.

– Safety is the most important and obvious reason for regular inspections.

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Inspection (1 of 10)

• Inspection involves an evaluation of the apparatus and equipment to ensure safe operation. – Inspection should be planned, methodical, and

performed in an organized manner. – Driver/operators conduct inspections:

• At the start of the shift• When apparatus is being put into service after

repairs• After a large incident when apparatus was used

extensively at an emergency scene

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• Inspection process identifies deficiencies with apparatus or equipment that might limit apparatus from performing as required.

• Most inspections are performed by one qualified individual. This ensures accuracy and thoroughness.

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• Driver/operator must have a basic knowledge and skills related to vehicle maintenance to perform the inspection. – Driver/operator should be able to identify

problems before they become critical safety issues.

– Refer to the department’s inspection procedures before attempting repairs to the apparatus.

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• Conducting an inspection requires basic vehicle maintenance equipment and tools. – Every station should have

the basic tools to aid in performing an inspection.

– Driver/operator should have access to replacement fluids to maintain the fluid levels of the apparatus.

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• Driver/operator performing inspections, tests, and maintenance must know the department operating procedures plus the apparatus manufacturer’s recommendations. – NFPA 1901, Standard for Automotive Fire

Apparatus, requires the manufacturer to provide documentation for the entire apparatus and each operating system.

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• Documentation includes:– Manufacturer’s name and address– Country of manufacture– Source of service and technical information– Parts replacement information– Descriptions and specifications of parts– Wiring diagrams for low-voltage and line-voltage

systems– Lubrication charts– Operating instructions

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• Documentation includes (continued):– Instructions regarding frequency and

procedure for maintenance– Overall fire apparatus operating instructions– Safety considerations– Limitations of use– Inspection procedures

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• Documentation includes (continued):– Recommended service procedures– Troubleshooting guide– Fire apparatus component warranties– Copies of required manufacturer test data or

reports– MSDS for fluid specified for use on apparatus

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• Driver/operator should use department’s procedures and manufacturer’s recommendations to help properly maintain apparatus– Specific fluids are required to ensure proper

functioning. – Driver/operator must adhere to the

manufacturer’s specification when adding fluids or he/she risks damaging the equipment.

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• Driver/operator must have tasks made clear and well understood before inspecting the apparatus.– Driver/operator must consider

safety. – Each department is responsible

for training members on how to inspect the apparatus safely and thoroughly.

– Always wear proper PPE during the inspection.

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Inspection Process (1 of 7)

• Review the inspection form completed after the previous inspection.– Inspection form is essential for maintaining an

accurate record of apparatus condition. – Document identifies who did inspection and

when. – Report identifies damaged or repaired

equipment and other preventive maintenance performed.

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Month

Primary / Daily Checks 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Weekly ChecksWeek 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 System Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5

Suspension

Transfer Case

Left Right Left Right Left Right Left Right Left Right

In In In In In

Starting hours

Front Tires

Tire Pressures

Relief Valve

Primer Fluid Level

Ladders / Ropes

Out Out

Windows / Wipers

Thermostat Gauge

Oil Gauge

Right Duals

Out Out Out

Engine Oil / Belts / Radiator

Lights / Siren / Horn

Water Tank Level

Left Duals

Inside/Outside Duals

Charge Gauge

Bleed Air Tanks

Brake Fluid / Air

Power steering

A.T.F.

Undercarriage

Warning Devices

Batteries ( page 2 )

Apparatus # Daily ChecksEnding Miles Ending hours

Water Lines

Year Starting Miles

Defibrillator

General Equipment

System

Pump Operation

Breathing Apparatus

KB Keys/Maps/Resource Books

CAFS oil / Foam level

Initials

Visual / Tire Condition Check

Cab / Seatbelts / Fuel Level

Passports / Portables / Radios

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• Bothell Fire and EMS attaches an inspection form to a clipboard and stores it on the apparatus. – Driver/operators from different shifts should

communicate about the apparatus and problems at morning tie-in.

– Taken with previous information, the current inspection could reveal a need for a qualified person to inspect the vehicle for defects.

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• Perform the actual inspection of the apparatus. – Investigation may take time depending on the

size and complexity of apparatus and components.

– Perform inspections systematically. – While conducting the inspection, the

apparatus should be in a safe area.• Parked on a flat, level surface

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• During the inspection, thoroughly document findings on the inspection report. – Ensure the documentation is as accurate as

possible and no items are overlooked.– Most items are inspected visually.

• Look for signs of damage, excessive wear, or defects.

– Some items must be operated during inspection to ensure proper functioning.

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• Driver/operator who visually inspects and operates the equipment during every shift will become familiar with the apparatus and its normal condition. – Driver/operator will recognize break downs or

maintenance needs and can recommend repairs when necessary.

– Use the department’s policies regarding apparatus inspections as a guide.

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• After completing the inspection, review the report and make sure nothing was missed. – Many departments require members to

complete the inspection by a certain time each day.

– Take the inspection seriously.– Failure to complete a thorough inspection

may result in an unsafe apparatus on the road and at the emergency scene.

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Fire Apparatus Sections (1 of 3)

• The inspection is broken into sections. – Lets the driver/operator focus on a single

aspect of the apparatus and discourages jumping around without a plan

– Jumping around randomly leads to the possibility of missing critical elements.

– Driver/operator should use a system or sequence recommended by the department.

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• The Fire Department pumper is broken into six sections.

• Sections are inspected in order unless otherwise stated by the department.– The most common method is starting at the

drivers door and working in a counter-clockwise direction.

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• Order of inspection– Exterior inspection– Engine compartment– Cab interior– Brake inspection– General tools/equipment

inspection– Pump inspection

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Exterior Inspection (1 of 5)

• Physically walk around and look at the general condition.– Is the apparatus clean and well maintained or worn

and in need of repairs?– Inspect compartment doors, hinges, and latches for

proper operation.

• Tires are critical to proper stability, stopping capability, and ability to carry loads.– Look for cuts, cracks, and fabric showing through the

tread or sidewall.

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• Valve stems on all tires should be accessible and devoid of cracks and cuts.– Valve caps should be securely fastened.– Size and make of tires should match the

manufacturer’s recommendations.

• Refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for appropriate tire pressures.– Use a pressure gauge to check the pressure.

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• A damaged wheel or rim can make the tire lose pressure or slip off.– Look for dents or large scratches.– Wheels should not be missing clamps, spacers,

studs, lugs, or protective covers.

• Power steering system reduces the effort required to steer the vehicle.– Look for bent, loose, or broken parts.– Inspect the amount of free play in the steering

wheel.

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• Suspension system keeps the vehicle’s axles in place and holds up the apparatus and load.– Inspect the frame assembly to ensure that no

parts are cracked, loose, broken, or missing.

• Visually inspect the exhaust system for loose, broken, or missing mounting brackets or parts.

• Fuel cap should be securely fastened to prevent spillage or fumes leaking from tank.

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Engine Compartment (1 of 9)

• On most apparatus, the driver/operator needs to raise the cab to inspect most portions of the engine, including belts, hoses, and fan blades.

• Older apparatus may not have an access door through which to check fluids.

• Always make sure loose items are secured prior to lifting the cab.

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• Inspect the engine compartment while the engine is off.– Examine for fluid leaks; broken, cracked, or

damaged hoses; and electrical wiring showing signs of wear, chaffing, or damage from heat.

• Driver/operator may be required to maintain appropriate fluid levels in the apparatus.– Do not rely solely on sensors to give an accurate

reading of the fluid level.

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• Check engine oil level with dip stick after the engine has been off for 15+ minutes.– Delay lets oil settle and gives an

accurate reading

• Coolant level should be checked as recommended by the manufacturer.

• Most systems provide an exterior coolant reservoir marked with the appropriate level.

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• Use caution when removing the radiator cap as coolant may be under pressure and hot.

• Power steering system fluid is checked the same as engine oil.

• Transmission fluid is inspected while the engine is running.– Park the vehicle in neutral.– Use a dip stick similar to when checking the oil.

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• Other fluid levels are checked by the fire department mechanic periodically. Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations for correct fluid levels.– Rear differential fluid (axle)– Hydraulic oil– Pump gear box oil levels

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• Belts that drive the engine components and other equipment may loosen due to wear.– Alternators, power steering pump, air compressor– Check the tension by pushing against the belt

where there is no pulley.

• Examine the apparatus’s batteries for corrosion on terminals where wires connect to battery post.– Remove corrosion by scraping with a wire brush.

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• Physically removing an electrical wire connection from a terminal is normally done by a mechanic trained to perform the task.– Improperly removing battery cables could

cause severe damage.• Driver/operator may check voltage levels

by observing the voltage meter on the dashboard.

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Cab Interior (1 of 5)

• Check that all cab-mounted equipment is present.– Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)– Maps– Traffic vests– Hearing protection– Medical gloves– Box lights

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• Check for worn or torn seats, cushions, dashboards, and headliners.– Ensure all seat belts function properly and are

free of cuts and frays.• Apparatus controls in cab interior

– Observe gauges measuring oil pressure, electrical system, engine temperature, and air pressure.

– Adjust seats, mirrors, and get familiar with functional controls.

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• Make sure all gauges indicate a performance within normal operating ranges.

• Interior functional control switches: heater, air conditioner, defroster, map lights, dash lights, radio, and other devices– All should be inspected to ensure correct

operation.

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• Exterior functional control switches: items outside the cab but operated from the inside– Emergency lights, headlights, directional lights,

brake lights, side marker lights, spotlights, and taillights

– All lights should be clean and operate correctly.

• Check mirrors, windows, and windshield– All windows should be clean and free of cracks.– Check windshield wipers and fluid level.

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Brake Inspection (1 of 4)

• Give brakes special attention when performing the inspection.

• Inspect brakes for:– Cracked drums or rotors– Shoes or pads contaminated with oil,

grease, or brake fluid– Shoes or pads worn dangerously thin,

missing, or broken

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• Parking brake test– Allow the running apparatus to move forward

at less than 5 mi/h (8 km/h).– Apply the parking brake.– If apparatus does not stop, have it inspected.

• Brake pedal test– Accelerate to 5 mi/h (8 km/h).– Push brake pedal firmly.– If there are problems, have it inspected.

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• Dual air brake system warning light and buzzer test– Turn on the apparatus and allow time for the

air compressor to build up to at least 100 psi (690 kPa).

– Shut off the engine.– Leave the battery in the “on” position and step

on and off the brake pedal.– An alarm should signal before the pressure

drops below 60 psi (414 kPa) in the air tank.

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• Spring brake test– Ensures the parking brake operates as

designed– Release the parking brake by depressing the

knob.– Step on and off the brake pedal.– The parking brake knob should activate when

the pressure drops below 40 psi (258 kPa).– Spring brakes will activate and help prevent

the vehicle from moving.

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General Tools/Equipment Inspection (1 of 3)

• Inspect all equipment on the apparatus to make sure it is operational.– Breathing apparatus, generators, fans,

hydraulic rescue tools, hand tools, power tools, hose, nozzles, ground ladders

• Power tools should be checked for oil level and fuel supply.

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• Many apparatus carry equipment that needs recharging.– An apparatus not operated

for an extended duration may have batteries drained of power by the ongoing recharging of equipment stored on board.

– Keep the vehicle’s batteries properly charged at all times.

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Pump Inspection (1 of 6)

• Pump inspection process includes:– Water supply tank– Foam supply tank– Intakes and discharges– Primer pump– Centrifugal fire pump

• Visually inspect the water supply tank, even if it has a gauge.– Always visually confirm the water tank is full.

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• Check the foam tank levels in an apparatus equipped with foam systems.

• Check the floor under the apparatus for water before opening any valve and allow the water to drain.– A puddle or dripping may

indicate a loose pump seal or other leak.

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• Pumps may be kept dry during the winter months in cold-weather areas.

• While the pump is not engaged, open and close each discharge valve several times to ensure proper operation.– Confirm all caps are easily operated and free

of corrosion. • Inspect intakes by removing plugs, caps,

or PIV and visually inspect piping.

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• Intake strainers are located at the front of all intakes directly on the pump.– Small screens prevent damage-

causing debris from entering.

• Apparatus with a centrifugal pump will have a priming pump.– Oil reservoir of priming pump

must be checked daily.

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• If the priming pump is wet, a stream of water should be observed within seconds.– If pump is being carried dry, no water should

be seen.• If the priming pump is being carried wet,

after operating pump valves and components, start the apparatus engine and engage the pump in the appropriate gear.

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• Do not operate the pump for more than a few minutes without circulating water back to the tank or other discharge line.

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Safety (1 of 4)

• It is critical to perform the apparatus inspection safely and to ensure the apparatus is prepared for a safe response.

• The final part of the safety evaluation focuses on making sure the apparatus is safe to ride on and to operate.– Secure all tools and equipment, breathing

apparatus, equipment on the compartment shelves, and equipment on the outside of the apparatus.

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Safety (2 of 4)

• Final part of the safety evaluation (continued)– Hose lines should be loaded and ready for

deployment.– Securely nest ground ladders.– Secure all doors and lids.

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Safety (3 of 4)

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Safety (4 of 4)

• Daily, weekly, or other periodic inspection items

• Completing forms– Forms recording inspection and maintenance

are filled out as the inspection process occurs.

– At the end of the inspection, forms are completed and filed according to the department’s procedures.

– Report abnormalities to the officer in charge.

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Summary (1 of 2)

• Apparatus inspection evaluates the apparatus and its equipment to ensure safe operation.

• Inspection should be planned, methodical, and performed in an organized manner.

• The inspection process should begin with a review of the inspection form completed after the previous inspection.

• Ensure the apparatus is prepared for a safe response.

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Summary (2 of 2)

• Dividing the inspection into sections allows the fire fighter to focus on a single aspect of the apparatus.

• Make sure the apparatus is in proper working condition, emergency warning equipment is operating, tools and equipment are functional, and the vehicle is ready for sustained operations.

6 performing apparatus check-out and maintenance

Documents

apparatus slide

maintenance slide

routine inspection

inspection process

daily inspection

routine maintenance

maintenance problems

written inspection