operating -...
TRANSCRIPT
OPERATINGGUIDELINES
OF THE
MONROERURALFIRE
PROTECTION DISTRICT
PROTECTING THE MONROE RURAL FIRE DISTRICTHEADQUARTERSMONROE, OREGON 97456
TABLE OF CONTENTS
0.1 Introduction0.2 Department Background0.3 Organizational Chart
SECTION 1 EMERGENCY CALL PROCEDURES
1.0 Accountability System1.1 Response to Calls1.2 Use of Turnouts & SCBA1.3 Fire Apparatus Staffing1.4 Life Support Units (1715, 1725, 1735) Staffing1.5 Fire Engineer's Duties1.6 Driving Emergency Vehicles1.7 On Scene Paperwork1.8 Chain of Command1.9 Firefighter & EMT Duties1.9.1 EMS Protocols1.10 Radio Communications1.11 Responding Guide1.11.1 Hazardous Response1.12 Out of District Response1.13 Infectious Disease Exposure and Control Policy1.14 Confined Space Rescue1.15 Water Rescue1.16 Low & High Angle Rescue1.17 RIT
SECTION 2 MAINTENANCE & EQUIPMENT
2.1 Hose Maintenance2.2 Apparatus Maintenance2.3 SCBA Maintenance2.4 Departmental Equipment2.5 Written Hazard Communication Program2.6 Lockout/Tagout Program2.7 Breathing Air Compressor & Air Quality Maintenance
SECTION 3 ADMINISTRATIVE & DEPARTMENTAL POLICIES
3.1 New Members3.2 Drill Rules3.3 Elections3.4 Executive Committee3.5 Reimbursements for Classes & Expenditures3.6 Refreshments Policy3.7 House Rules3.8 Sexual Harassment3.9 Confidentiality of Hazardous Materials Information3.10 CPR Microshields3.11 Resident Volunteer Rules3.12 Document Research and Copying Fees3.13 A.D.A. Policy3.14 Life / Safety & Loss Prevention Policy
SECTION 4 OFFICERS/OTHERS
4.1 The Fire Chief4.2 Assistant Chief, Captains, & Lieutenants4.3 The Training Officer4.4 The EMS Officer4.5 Public Fire and Life Safety Educator4.6 Employee Exit Form
SECTION 1
EMERGENCY CALL PROCEDURES
0.2 Department Background
Currently, the Monroe Rural Fire Protection District (RFPD) protects the area in and around Alpine, Bellfountain and Irishbend Oregon. The Monroe RFPD is bordered on the east by the Willamette River, on the north by unprotected area, on the west by state forestry land, and on the south by Junction City Fire Department. The Monroe RFPD is approximately one-hundred thirty-four square miles and has an Insurance Services Office rating of 4 within the Monroe city limits and ratings of 8 in the rural district. The volunteers are alerted to respond by a paging system that is activated from the 911-dispatch center located in Corvallis and operated by the Corvallis Police Department.
The equipment of the department is owned by the RFPD and funding for the department comes from property taxes and is overseen by an elected board of directors. The department is staffed entirely by volunteers, with the exception of a full-time paid chief.
The department also provides Basic Life Support, Advanced Life Support and medical quick response to the District. The EMT units are an integral part of the department. The Monroe RFPD does not provide transportation of patients to medical facilities. Transportation of patients is provided primarily by the Corvallis Fire Department, and secondary ambulance service is provided by Lane Rural, Eugene Fire Department, or Springfield Fire Department.
Equipment is housed at three stations, one in Monroe (Station #1 - the main station), one in Alpine (Station #2), and one in Bellfountain (Station #3).
The equipment of the district includes four pumper trucks, two tender/pumper trucks, one van-type medical unit, one modular-type medical unit, one RAV (Rapid Attack Vehicle), one brush unit and two staff vehicles.
1.0 Safety Accountability
Personnel accountability at an emergency scene is one of the most important parts of The Incident Command System. It is commonly referred to as the Passport System. The system was designed to provide the Incident Commander with information concerning the identity of individual members of a company or team and their assignment and account for the assignment of companies, teams, and units at an emergency scene. Therefore, the policy of the Monroe Fire District is that the Passport System, in some form, will be used.
1.0. A. Components of Passport System
The Passport System utilizes removable helmet shields, white, yellow and red passports, name tags, and control boards.
Helmet Shields:
A) Each apparatus shall have a reflective helmet shield for each assigned member. The purpose of the helmet shield is to clearly identify the member as to which company or team they are assigned to.
B) All helmet shields are to be kept in a designated location on the apparatus when not actually on a helmet.
C) Helmet shields must be in place on members BEFORE entrance into an emergency incident perimeter.
D) Helmet shield shall be color coded as follows: 1) Company Officers-White with Black numbers 2) FF/Eng.-Orange with White numbers 3) IC (Incident Commander) White with Green letters E) The officer of each unit will held accountable for replacing all
helmet shields.
Passports:
A) The purpose of a passport is to provide accountability of company/team members after entering an emergency incident perimeter.
B) Passports control boards contains the following information: 1. Top portion: a) Incident location and type b) Company/unit designator (alarm, engine, tender, rescue, time, etc.) 2. Middle portion holds team members name tags. 3. Back portion contains sectors, time, officer and location. A scene diagram and check list.
1.0.A. cont...................
C) Passport color codes: 1. White-primary, engraved with unit ID (given to IC.) 2. Yellow-secondary, engraved with unit ID (given to unit Officer) 3. Red-back up, engraved with unit ID (stays in unit)
D) The White Passport (primary) provided for each company, team, or unit.
1. The primary passport shall be given to the Incident Commander or their designate before entry into an
emergency incident perimeter. 2. Passports are kept in the passenger compartment of each unit
when not in service.
E) The Yellow Passport (secondary) is used as follows: 1. For identification of team members and is kept by the unit Officer. 2. Secondary passports are kept in the passenger compartment
of each unit when not in service.
F) The Red Passport (Backup) is used as follows: 1. For identification of team members and id kept in the unit as a backup to the primary & secondary passports. 2. Backup passports are kept in the passenger compartment of
each unit when not in service.
Control Boards:
A) A plastic board with Velcro strips upon which the incident or division commander holds the passports of assigned company or teams and takes notes.
B) Used to organize initial ICS assignments and track key life safety, incident control, and property conservation bench marks.
C) Used to manage and track sector, division, group, etc. organization.
D) Used to maintain passports during incidents.
Name Tags:
A) Each member of the Fire District shall maintain a minimum of four (4) Velcro backed name tags.
B) Six (6) name tags are attached with Velcro to the underside of the rear brim of the member’s helmet.
C) Company officers and team leader name tags are the first tag on the passports, followed by the engineer (placed inverted) and firefighter name tags.
1.0.A. cont...................
Procedure:
The basic policy and procedures for the use of the Passport System by the District are:
Commanders at an emergency incident shall use the Passport system to account for those commanders, companies, and teams within their direct span of control.
Commanders, team leaders, and firefighters shall maintain an awareness of each other's physical condition and shall use the command structure to request help, relief, and reassignment of fatigued or injured teams or members.
Company officers, team leaders, and firefighters are accountable for the SAFETY of themselves and other members of their team. Team members shall maintain a constant awareness of the position and function of all members working with them.
Team members must always be in contact with each other through one of the following methods: Voice, (not with a radio), sight, or touch. Radio contact is acceptable in the case of apparatus operators, chief officers, or when the location of such personnel is constant and known by the other members of the team, i.e. control sector, etc.
If a team member is in trouble, the other member(s) of the team shall take appropriate steps to: Provide direct help, call for help, or as a last resort go get help. Members will stay together as teams when in the Hazard Zone (any area where for safety reasons the public is not allowed access), when the use of SCBA’s is required and otherwise directed by the Incident Commander, until the incident is over.
When a task is completed by a team they are to notify the appropriate person in their chain of command, the team will retrieve their passport and report to staging until reassignment. The appropriate officer will identify the team to the Incident Commander and that their task has been completed. Incident Commanders and/or sector officers will not assign tasks to teams that do not have passports.
Company Officers and/or team leaders shall be responsible to supervise the maintenance and proper placement of Helmet Shields, Passports and team accountability and integrity at emergency incidents.
1.0.A. cont...................
ALL MEMBERS ARE RESPONSIBLE TO MAINTAIN: The correct Helmet Shield on their helmet and their name tags on the correct primary, secondary and backup passports.
Firefighter’s/EMT’s responding to calls will follow THESE GUIDELINES:
A) The company officer for the unit will: 1. Collect three (3) name tags from each member on the
unit. The company officer will then issue a helmet shield to the individual when the company officer has received the 3 name tags. While enroute, a member of that company will prepare the primary, secondary and backup passports tags.
B) (Remember, if you are not assigned to the vehicle you responded on, return your helmet shield to the unit and retrieve your name tags from the passport at the conclusion of the call.)
C) Whenever a team or company is assigned with another company for a task or function, the primary passports will be piggy backed. Example: 1715 is assigned with 1711 for attack team, 1715's primary passport would be piggy backed onto 1711's primary passport.
Company officers are responsible for member under their direct control. When a team is split away from the company officer to a different Commander, that Commander and team leader are accountable for that team and all members of both teams will be made aware of whom they are to report to and commanders made aware of whom they are responsible for.
Company officers are responsible for the primary and secondary passport. The primary (White) passport shall be kept in the I.C.’s control board. The secondary passport (Yellow) shall be kept in the unit Officer’s position. The backup passport (Red) will remain on the dashboard, passenger side, of each vehicle.
When a company reports to the Incident Commander for assignment and the driver/operator is left with the apparatus, the driver/operator's name tag shall be inverted. This way the I.C. or division or sector officer will know the driver/operator is not with the company.
During an incident the I.C. or an appointee shall have the passports of the companies under their command on the control board. If command is passed to later arriving companies and/or a chief officer, that I.C. shall pass the control board to the new I.C. and await their new assignment.
1.0.A. cont...................
When a company or team reports to an incident, division, sector or staging, they shall transfer their primary passport to that commander except as defined below:
The Primary passport will remain with the officer or team leader when:They are the only unit at the incident.
They are a committed first arriving unit(s) at an incident before the establishment of a command post or have passed Command.
They are on or directed to a remote side of an emergency incident before the establishment of a sector or division.
When first arriving teams that have not transferred their passports to a command function leave a hazardous area, they will report their team status to the Incident Commander by radio or personal contact. The Commander may direct the company or team to a command function or a new assignment where they shall transfer their passport(s).
Commanders and team leaders will conduct an emergency incident roll call/PAR using their passport as a guide when:
The company or team is relieved of an assignment and transferred to a different command. Commanders will confirm that a roll call/PAR has been conducted.
If a commander presumes a firefighter or team is missing or trapped, the commander shall start rescue efforts AS SOON AS POSSIBLE at the last known location. The Incident Commander will then conduct a roll call/PAR on the emergency incident to confirm the status of missing personnel by: announcing a roll call/PAR to all Officers/team leaders and division sectors, then checking with each division or sector on their roll call status. (Division officers should try
to conduct their roll call/PAR face-to-face so as not to tie up the radio channel if possible).
Changing from offensive to defensive mode, the Incident Commander will announce the change to all Officers/team leaders on the fire channel. The companies and teams will withdraw from the building and conduct a roll call/PAR. They will report their status to their sector officer who will then report to the Incident Commander.
1.0.A. cont...................
A catastrophic change in the incident, such as a building collapse, explosion, backdraft, sudden flooding, release of vapor cloud or a change in the attach mode etc., or the Incident Commander warrants a roll call/PAR.
The Incident Commander or team leader determines that a need for a roll call/PAR exists. When the Incident Commander decides it is necessary that a utility worker or civilian is to go inside the Hazard Zone, that person shall be escorted by a uniformed member of the District who has a radio for emergency communication. The civilian will be outfitted in appropriate protective gear for the hazard zone they will be entering. The civilian is responsible for providing this protective equipment.
DEFINITIONS:
Company Officers: Officers and acting officers in charge of engine companies, or teams.
Control Board: A clipboard with Velcro strips upon which supervisors hold passports of assigned teams and take notes.
Emergency Incident: Any situation to which the fire district responds to deliver emergency services including: rescue, fire suppression, medical treatment, and other forms of hazard control and mitigation.
Helmet Shield: A plasticized shield backed with Velcro that attached to the front of member's helmet. The helmet shield has letter and/or numbers identifying a company unit or administrative assignment. The second number identifies the type of unit, i.e.:
1700 and 1701 = Chief Officers1715, 1725, 1723 = Medic Units and Rescues1711, 1712, 1721, 1731 = Engines1713, 1733 = Tenders
1710, 1716 = If used is Support Vehicles1714 = Brush UnitPIO = Public Information OfficerSFTY = Safety OfficerSUPPORT = Support People/Coffee, Food, Pop, etc.
Incident Termination: The conclusion of Fire District operations at the scene of an incident, usually the departure of the last unit from the scene.
1.0.A. cont...................
Name Tag: A Velcro-backed plastic tag with a member's last name and first name initial.
Passport: Approximately 2" x 4" boards made of Velcro and plastic used to identify and account for members and teams. Members affix name tags to passports.
A) Primary passport: White, given to the I.C.B) Secondary passport: Yellow, flexible passport kept by the
unit Officer.C) Back up passport: kept on the dashboard of the apparatus.
Roll Call/PAR: A poll of all teams at an emergency incident to account for all personnel at that incident.
Team: A group of two (2) or more firefighters who work together and are responsible for each other's safety.
Team Leader: Usually a company officer or member assigned or selected as the team leader.
Velcro Pad: A permanently attached Velcro pad on the dashboard or helmet to which passports, helmet shields, and name tag sets are attached.
Fire Ground Commander: Officers of firefighter assigned command functions within the ICS fire ground management system. Command functions can range from the base commander to staging, sector, division, group, operations, and incident commander.
Incident Command System or ICS: A management system that defines the responsibilities and limits the span of control of fire ground commanders. Training and use of ICS is required by Federal and State law for any firefighter and is pre-requisite knowledge to efficiently work with the passport accountability system.
Piggy Backed: The practice of attaching one passport to a second. Passports are piggy backed when a company has four or more members who can be split into two separate teams. Company officers and team leaders must account for the members within their span of control and therefore keeps both teams' passports until they are split into separate teams by an emergency incident commander. Some departments may choose to have an individual team leader responsible for a second team and the piggy back method of storage would not apply.
1.0.A. cont...................
Offensive Fire Ground Strategy: The term used to describe a fire attack where firefighters enter the structure (interior fire fighting) to locate, confine and extinguish a fire.
Defensive Fire Ground Strategy: The term used to describe a fire ground operation where the fire is attacked from the perimeter/exterior. The strategy of defensive operations is to protect exposures and confine the fire to the area involved. A defensive strategy is used when there are no life safety situations and or the risk vs. benefit is too great.
Transitional Fire Ground Strategy: Use to convey that the fire is vented and there is currently not sufficient staff on scene to go offensive so an indirect attack from the outside will be done until staffing will allow two in and two out / RIT.
Investigating Fire Ground Strategy: The term used to describe a situation where there is light smoke with no IDLH environment and a team will be going inside with a hand line or fire extinguisher to find the cause of the smoke. Before entering the structure staff must read the basement, attic and the flashover potential.
Preparing Fire Ground Strategy: The term used to describe a fire that is not vented and an insufficient number of staff is on scene to ventilate or attack the fire. So preparations are being make (hoses laid, fan started and set to a 90 degree to the entry) and waiting for more staff to arrive.
Rescue Fire Ground Strategy: It is imperative that the officer be very specific and announces over the fire frequency that there is a known rescue or compelling evidence of a rescue exists and you will be making entry. The officer must make all incoming units aware of the rescue by stating where the rescue is likely to be (we have a rescue on the second floor Alfa-Bravo side) and where the team will
entering the structure (team will be making entry on Alfa side with a hose line).
Re-Hab: A word to describe the medical monitoring, rest and re-hydration of firefighters at an emergency incident. Firefighters normally re-hab in the staging area before a company or team is reassigned to fire ground duties.
Firefighter Accountability: The process a department uses to ensure that fire ground commanders know the location of each team and each team leaders knows the location of team member on the fire ground. This process also includes the buddy system which basically state that you must be able to see, hear, or touch your partner at all times. Firefighter accountability is recommended by NFPA 1500, which we are using as guideline.
Passport System: A system of fire ground accountability that uses helmet shields, name tags, passports, and status boards to account for companies and teams, and to identify the individual members of a team. The "passport system" is an important element of ICS.
Control Board Shorthand: Used when making notations on the control board as to a teams task.
A = Attack Team (to locate, confine and extinguish the fire)
SB = Stand-by Team (is positioned outside in a 2 in / 2 out situation. They are ready to go into the structure to intervene should the attack team be in a life threatening situation)
BU = Back-Up Team (primary function is to protect egress, check for extension and primary search of the adjoining areas)
S = Search (secondary search of all or part of the structure)
SA = Salvage & Overhaul Team (to remove or protect in place materials in side the structure – to remove materials or structures that are smoldering or hiding hot spots)
PPV = Positive Pressure Ventilation Team (to locate and set up the positive pressure ventilation where directed to and to open a area for the pressure to escape)
✔ X = Checking for Extension (a team that is sent into the structure to check for fire that extended into hidden places)
1.1.Response to Calls
1.1.A. Every fire fighter shall respond to the closest fire station for all emergency calls. If you are away from your duty station, but remain in district (close to or at another station), carry your turnouts with you in your vehicle. This will enable you to respond to the closest station and have a set of turnouts that fit you well. If you are caught without your own turnouts, utilize the spare sets. Do not use another member's turnouts unless directed to.
Exception; The Fire Chief and Officers with portable radios and protective clothing may respond to the scene for a size-up of the emergency. Response by other personnel via personal vehicle to the scene is not recommended, unless the incident is between your location and the closest station or has been arranged with the Fire Chief.
1.1.B. Any member who responds to the fire station for an emergency after all apparatus needed for the call have left the station will remain at the station until released by the Fire Chief (or the highest ranking office at the scene). When "scene is under control" has been received, it is permissible to leave the station if there is an argent need, other wise everyone stays at the station to help in returning the alarm units to an available status. Continued standby can be requested by scene command. (A backup team is just as important as the team out on the call.)
1.1.C. Any member who is intoxicated shall not respond to an emergency call or drill. Any member, officer, or fire fighter, recognizing a member who may be under the influence of intoxicants, responding to the fire station or to the scene of any emergency is to report such an incident to the Fire Chief or officer in charge immediately.
1.1.D. All members will mark the provided box in the radio log book in the fire station for all emergency calls that they respond to or call the main station from a substation in the case of mutual aid calls to ensure that the radio
operator has them documented. Sign the book even if you don't make the fire apparatus or medic unit. This is important because the Rating Bureau (ISO) gives points for the amount of members responding to a call. Back-up teams are just as important as the team out on the call. A name will not be marked as responding to a call if the person calls in from home.
1.1.E. Persons who are not members of the department shall not be allowed to ride on or drive any apparatus, or handle any equipment belonging to the fire department, unless specifically authorized to do so by the Fire Chief or the officer in charge.
1.1.F. It is strongly suggested that all personnel carry their pagers at all times, or at least keep them close by.
1.1.G. When responding to calls from your home, drive safely and follow all traffic laws.
1.2 Use of Turnouts and SCBA (Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus)
1.2.A. Every fire fighter shall don full turnouts, before boarding any fire apparatus responding to any emergency call or drill. Safety belts will be fastened on all fire fighters, before the apparatus leaves the fire station on any emergency call or drill.
Exception: The driver (engineer) may have their helmet beside them or somewhere on the apparatus while responding to an emergency call or enroute to a drill. They will have them on at the scene of the emergency.
1.2.B. All fire fighters will have full turnouts on at all times while on the fire ground. On field fires and wildland fires wildland gear is allowed. It is up the officer in charge to permit the removal of turnout clothes or wildland gear at field and wildland fires. Removal may be necessary during these types of fires to prevent exhaustion, especially during mop-up when the fire is under control. This will only be done in a non-hazardous environment.
Exception: EMS personnel may take off all or part of their turnouts to perform EMS duties only after vehicle extrication has been accomplished.
1.2.C. Full turnouts are required when responding to motor vehicle accidents or haz-mat incidents. Any member of the department who responds to the station for an EMS call will wear full turnouts, blue coveralls or wildland gear. Open toed shoes are not allowed on any emergency scene, boots will be put on before boarding the rescue vehicle for an emergency call.
1.2.D. Turnouts will be taken with you on any fire apparatus taken out of the fire station for driver training. It is recommended that you wear turnout pants and boots while driving to get the feel of driving with them on. Turnouts will be washed any time they become contaminated (use only the washing equipment provided at station #1) and it is each firefighter’s responsibility to ensure that all of their gear is clean and in good order at all times.
1.2. cont...................
1.2.E. Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) use
1) All firefighters will be instructed on the proper donning and use of SCBA, by a qualified instructor. No firefighter starting after 1987 will be allowed to have facial hair below the bottom lip. No fire fighter will be allowed to enter an IDLH atmosphere without prior instruction to be able to don a SCBA, in full turnouts (helmet, coat, pants, boots, and gloves) in one hundred and twenty (120) seconds. All firefighters are required to qualify at least once a year, and a record of each member's qualifying time will be recorded and kept up to date by the Monroe Rural Fire Protection District.
2) No firefighter will be allowed to enter an area where there is an IDLH atmosphere without wearing an SCBA.
3) Firefighters wearing an SCBA shall work in groups of two or more using the "buddy system". A fire fighter wearing a SCBA shall not be permitted to work alone, and no fire fighter will be left alone when exiting a contaminated area.
4) No firefighter starting after 1987 will be allowed to have facial hair below the bottom lip. All other fire fighters will comply with OSHA Code standard, Division 151, Chapter 437, concerning facial hair (i.e. no beards).
5) Tobacco chewing is not permitted while wearing an SCBA.
6) Only trained persons will be permitted to operate the SCBA air compressor. (see section 2.7 SCBA Breathing Air Compressor & Air Quality Maintenance)
1.3 Fire Apparatus Staffing
1.3.A. Under normal circumstances there will be a minimum team of two persons before a fire engine leaves the station to respond to an emergency call. A team can be comprised of two or four persons, depending on the configuration of that unit. No persons shall ride on the tailboard unless ordered to do so by the Chief, this unit must have been made before 1980 and have the appropriate safety belts. Tenders will be staffed with normally with two crew members and a maximum of three.
1.3.B. Normally, the driver is the engineer and the officer/team leader responding will ride in the passenger side of the cab, especially on the first engine out of the fire station. The officer or team leader
may elect to drive if no qualified driver/engineer has arrived by the time the team has boarded the apparatus and is ready to go.
1.3. cont…..
1.3.C. Normally, the person riding in the passenger side of the apparatus cab will operate the siren, and is responsible for locating the address in the map book before leaving the station and taking care of radio communications, although the driver may elect to do so if it is more convenient or necessary.
1.3.D. Structure fires - if the fire is a known or suspected structure fire, and adequate personnel are available, the maximum team of four persons is recommended on the first fire engine out of station #1.
NOTE: During the daytime, especially from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and at other critical times, it may be necessary to man the first out fire engine with a minimum crew. Remember: There must be enough personnel to staff the necessary apparatus, such as additional fire engines, tenders, and rescue units.
1.3.E. Rescue units and staff vehicles will be utilized for transportation to emergencies in place of riding on the tailboard of department engines. This should be utilized, especially during the winter months.
1.3.F. Grass fires - The maximum crew of three persons (one person on top) is all that is necessary for fire engines responding to a grass fire. During the daytime it is permissible to respond with only two or less people.
1.3.G. Mutual Aid to Monroe’s District - The officer in charge may call for additional response if more apparatus is needed on the scene or may call for a move-up if the staffing at the main station is not adequate to handle additional calls. When calling for mutual aid the officer making that call must know who, what and where this mutual aid unit or units are to report before making the call.
Mutual Aid to Other Districts - The officer in charge will determine what apparatus and personnel are to be assigned to the call. Normally, if staffing levels allow, 1713 for a rural response, 1711 or 1712 for a city response will be sent from the main station. 1733 may be sent if an additional unit is needed, the officer in charge will determine this. On all mutual aid calls crew members that respond to station 2 or station 3 are to call the main station and inform the officer in charge as to their staffing levels. Adequate staffing levels will be maintained within Monroe’s district before a first or second unit is sent on a mutual aid call.
1.3.H. Smoking - Smoking is not permitted on any fire department apparatus, or buildings nor is smoking allowed while on any emergency medical or fire scene. This rule applies to everyone at the scene, civilians, police officers, etc.
1.4 EMS Rescue Vehicle
1.4.A. Monroe RFPD provides quality ALS & BLS services to the community via quick response teams and EMT's. First Aid Responders work in conjunction with orders provided by the Advising Physician and to their level of training. No member of the Monroe Rural Fire Protection District shall exceed their scope of practice at any time, this scope is set either by the physician or operating standing orders signed by the Physician Adviser.
EMT's are responsible for providing ALS & BLS care and depending on their individual certification level. EMT's work under standing orders provided by the Advising Physician. On a medical call, EMT's are in charge of the patients. If no EMT's are available, First Aid Responders are in charge of patient care. If more than one EMT or First Responder is on the scene, the highest ranking shall be the "team leader" and supervise patient care. Ranking EMT's is approached as follows, from lowest to highest certification; First Aid Responder, EMT First Responder, EMT Basic, EMT Intermediate, and EMT Paramedic. If two EMT’s at the same level arrive on scene the EMT with first patient contact will be in charge of patient care. Anyone with patient care regardless of level of training will be responsible for completing a computerized medical report in it entirety within a 24 hour period and faxing that report to the physician advisor.
1.4.B. Transporting:
Rescue units are not to be used to transport victims of illness or accidents. If transport is required for life saving, where exigent circumstances beyond the control of the individuals responding, the rescue units can be used for transport. If transport is required, it shall be done as set forth in accordance with instructions from the responding ambulance or physician adviser. If transport is done and paramedics from the ambulance are on scene, the paramedic decide the staffing requirements for that unit
1.4.C. Smoking - Smoking is not allowed on any fire district vehicle, any fire district building or on any emergency scene.
1.4.D. Remember to properly staff all apparatus necessary for the incident. For example, on a MVC, don't put everyone on the medic unit and leave no one for the engine. Think about what apparatus is responding from the other stations, how far they are from the
incident and always staff for the worst case scenario, if staffing levels allow.
1.5 Fire Apparatus Engineer's Duties (Includes EMS rescue vehicle driver where applicable)
1.5.A. The operator of any fire district vehicle will be insurable through the district’s policy, have their driving record reviewed at the discretion of the fire chief, and report any moving violations in writing to the fire chief within 5 working days of the infraction. The person driving a piece of fire apparatus to an emergency will normally be the engineer (pump operator) at the scene of the emergency, during pumping operations the pump operator will not leave the pump. The engineer will standby or stay with the apparatus at all times while at the scene of an emergency and will be responsible for the security and well being of the fire apparatus. This includes all equipment on the apparatus.
1.5.B. If the crew is shorthanded, the engineer may leave the apparatus
unattended to help with the initial attack on a working fire after the pump is in operation and the necessary hose lines are charged. The engineer will return to the apparatus as soon as possible.
1.5.C. When the apparatus is back in quarters, from an emergency call or drill, it is the engineer's responsibility to see that the apparatus is made ready for the next call. This includes fluid levels, lights, tires, belts, hose beds (pre-connects and supply beds), and washing and drying the apparatus. All trucks are to be parked in the station in neutral (main transmission only on manual units) with the parking brakes in the on position, the land line electrical connection plugged in, air line plugged in, battery switch turned off, and the radio on the proper frequency. This rule applies to all the fire department vehicles. (See 2.2.B. for washing details.)
Exception: The day crew may be excused from washing hose and apparatus when they need to get back to their jobs. At least two engines should be ready with all pre-connects replaced and at least five hundred (500) feet of hose in the supply hosebeds before the day crew is released. The person in charge shall decide upon release of the day crew. The person in charge will report to the maintenance officer if any truck needs cleaning or any other maintenance attention such as hose or mechanical problems.
1.5.D. It is recommended that washing if needed and drying apparatus or rescue vehicle be done immediately upon returning so that it will not
be forgotten and all persons who were on board will be available to help out. (See 2.2.B. for details.)
1.5.E. The driver of any fire district vehicle shall ensure that all passengers are properly aboard the vehicle with safety belts in use before moving the vehicle.
1.5 cont...................
1.5.F. When backing up any fire apparatus, including rescue vans, into the fire station, on scene, or anywhere else, the operator will have a person guiding or directing them. The person guiding or directing the vehicle operator will use full arm signals and be in plain sight of the operator. If for any reason the operator looses sight of the person guiding or directing them, the operator is to stop immediately and not move the vehicle until the person guiding or directing returns and is once again in plain sight. In some situations the driver may want to request more than one person to guide or direct them. (See 1.6.B.)
1.5.G. All personnel who operate vehicles of the Monroe RFPD shall have and maintain a current and valid Oregon Motor Vehicle Operator's license and show proof of insurance. Changes in a persons driving license or changes in a driving record that may effect Monroe RFPD’s safe vehicle operation will be made available to the Fire Chief within 5 working days from the infraction.
1.6 Driving Emergency Vehicles
1.6.A. Red lights, siren, and headlights must be activated on all emergency vehicles when responding code 3 to any emergency. If you are directed to reduce to code 1, then you must obey all laws as a normal vehicle. Red lights and sirens are not toys - they are for emergency use only.
1.6.B. The buzzer on the tailboard is for stop and go communications. The codes are as follows;
1 - Stop2 - Go3 - Backup (See 1.5.E.)
1.6.C. Driving an emergency vehicle with the lights and sirens does not give the right of way. You are asking for the right of way, and as the driver you are responsible for the lives of the persons with you in the cab and the people in the other vehicles. You are also
responsible for the apparatus that you are driving as well as the public. Statutes ORS 820.300 and ORS 820.370 to 820.380 fire engines, ambulances, and rescue vehicles may exceed the speed limit, only if it will not endanger the life or property of others. If lights and siren are activated, you still need to stop at all red lights, stop signs, school busses, etc., and proceed only if you are not endangering the life or property of others.
1.6 cont...................
Remember: The main objective of the fire department is to protect the lives and property of the people in our community.
1.6.D. Whenever an apparatus is parked on the road side at night at an emergency scene, the headlights should be turned off (if not needed to illuminate the emergency scene) and emergency lights and park lights should remain on. This allows passing motorists to better see persons who are getting things out of compartments on the sides of emergency vehicles. If the headlights are being used to light the scene they should be generally aimed off of the road so as not to blind passing motorists. When parking any emergency vehicle at any incident the operator will place the vehicle between the emergency workers and the on coming traffic. The front wheels of the vehicle will be placed at a 45° angle away from the emergency workers.
1.6.E. New members on the department will be qualified on driving before operating an emergency vehicle of the department on emergency calls. All members that are or in the process of qualifying to operating an emergency vehicle must provide proof of insurance before being allowed to operate the department’s vehicles.
Exceptions: Persons with prior engine and tender operation training may be exempt from this rule. Also, during the daytime it may be necessary to have new people drive whatever apparatus is needed if they are capable and trained for driving that particular piece of apparatus. This decision is to be made by the officer in charge at the time of the emergency. Do not attempt to drive or operate any apparatus if you are not qualified to do so.
1.7 On-Scene Paperwork
1.7.A. The officer in charge, or other responsible person, at the scene of an emergency will fill out the Incident Report before leaving the station after any emergency. Any member at the scene may be appointed to do this task. You may not be able to fill the worksheet out completely, but get as much information as possible. Any
officer can give direction on what information is needed for the radio log and the Fire Marshal’s report.
1.7.B. Appropriate forms for fires and haz-mat incidents are located in the cab of 1711.
1.8 Chain of Command
1.8.A. If no ranking officer is on board the responding apparatus or at the scene of an emergency, then the most senior firefighter will be in command. However, the senior firefighter may place someone else on board in command. If the senior firefighter decides to place someone else in command then he will tell that person to take command. When or if an higher ranking officers shows up on the scene he/she may take command or tell the person who is currently in command to continue to have command of the scene. Regardless of whom is in command, there will always be someone in charge at all times. Communication is the key to command situations.
An Incident Command shall be established on structure fires, large grass fires, auto accidents, haz-mat incidents and any other incidents that require an emergency response. The officer in charge will establish incident command and then inform dispatch and/or the main station when and where command has been established. The officer in charge will also inform dispatch and/or the main station when command has been terminated.
1.8.B. Medical calls - on medical calls the ranking or highest level EMT on scene will be in charge of the patients. The highest ranking officer not involved in patient care will have incident command.
1.8.C. Motor vehicle accidents and fires - on motor vehicle accidents and fires the ranking fire officer will be in charge of the scene. The ranking fire officer will direct assistance with the patient(s) as required by the EMT's. This includes extrication of the patient(s). The EMT's and fire personnel will work hand-in-hand concerning extrication. Remember the main concern during extrication is the safety of fire department staff, patient(s) and the public. The ranking EMT will be in charge of the patient(s) and will be responsible for cancellation, additional request of the ambulance resource.
1.8.D. The chief shall be the head of the department subject to the laws of the State of Oregon, other pertinent agencies and the ordinances, rules, and regulations herein adopted. (see 4.1 through 4.2)
1) In the absence of the chief, the assistant chief shall command the department. In this case, he/she will be held responsible in all aspects, with full powers of the Fire Chief.
2) If the assistant chief is absent, the senior ranking officer shall take command. In this case, he/she will be held responsible in all aspects, with full powers of the Fire Chief. (see 4.1 through 4.2)
1.8.E.All members shall work as directed by the Fire Chief or the officer in charge of the emergency situation. (see 4.1 through 4.2)
1.9 Fire Fighter Duties
1.9.A. The general duties of the fire fighters are to ascertain that all occupants of a burning building are out of the building, under conditions set by law, make rescues, raise ladders, ventilate buildings, handle small fire extinguishers, water and foam hose lines, and extinguish any blaze with a minimum amount of damage to the premises involved.
1.9.B. Fire fighters are to work as directed by the Fire Chief or the officer in charge at the scene of any emergency. The officer in charge also directs salvage and overhaul, and supervises clean-up of equipment and apparatus following the call.
1.9.C. At structure fires, hose lines shall be advanced into the buildings with the nozzle shut off (after the air has been bled from the line) and shall be opened only when needed to control the situation. After the main body of fire is out the nozzle will be shut off and the remainder of the fire cleaned up with small hose lines.
1.9.D. Life lines should be used any time a structure is entered for search and rescue or any other reason. A hose line may be your life line (for more information see RIT section 1.17). The signal to evacuate the building is given by one long blow on a horn of an apparatus on scene. If this signal is given, all personnel evacuate the building as quickly as possible.
1.9.E. Fire fighters shall be responsible for salvage and overhaul operations to reduce water and/or chemical damage. They shall promptly spread salvage covers as required. They shall quickly assemble the contents of a room involved so as to be able to cover as much as possible with one cover. Then, the water and debris shall be removed from the structure unless otherwise directed. Also, holes in the roof shall be covered. Once back at the station, salvage covers will be cleaned, dried, and returned to their proper storage location.
1.9.F. All members shall assist in the work of the department whether it is their assigned duty or not. In the absence of any specific duties or apparent work to be done, report to the Fire Chief or the officer in charge for further instructions. No matter what task or situation safety of the Monroe Rural Fire Protection District personnel is always the top priority.
1.9.G. EMS Protocols and Standing Orders - All EMT's and First Aid Responders, will follow the standing orders of the physician advisor. EMT's and First Aid Responders will not perform skills beyond their scope of practice. Any EMT or First Aid Responders practicing
1.9 cont...................
outside their scope of practice will be subject to loss of certification and/or suspension. The person charged with patient care no matter of their level of training will complete a computerized patient care report and fax that report to the physician advisor within 24 hours of the initial response. If this is not accomplished within the 24 hour time period, a written statement stating why the time requirements were not met will be attached to the report and accepted or denied by the fire chief or his designee and further action may be taken.
1.9.H. Infection Control - All personnel responding to an EMS call or any situation where body fluids may be present will have full BSIP which includes but is not limited to full turnouts, full wildland gear or EMS jump suits and donning gloves prior to arrival on scene. When on scene, if suctioning is required, or if the patient is vomiting, or coughing all personnel will don a face mask in addition to gloves. Face mask, and gloves may be removed only when it is certain that no exchange of body fluids will occur.
Any contact with a patient's body fluids should be reported to an EMS officer and to the Fire Chief as soon as possible. Also, should such contact occur, thorough cleansing should take place immediately, or as soon as possible after contact. If the exposure is deemed by the person exposed or the officer in charge, the officer will make contact with the exposure control officer and the on scene officer will follow their instructions. The Corvallis EMS Chief shall be the exposure control officer for the Monroe Rural Fire Protection District and will be contacted immediately upon an exposure through 911 regional dispatch center (541-757-6911).
All articles contaminated with body fluids shall be decontaminated immediately following the run.
All personnel responsible for providing patient care shall be immunized against the Hepatitis b virus. The Monroe RFPD shall provide the immunization to all personnel.
1.9.I EMT Certification:
Any person acting as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) must be certified. In order for an individual to be certified, they must be, to the best of their knowledge:
1) Physically and mentally qualified.2) Free from addiction to controlled substances or alcoholic
beverages.3) If not so free of controlled substances or alcoholic beverages, has
been and is currently rehabilitated.1.9 cont...................
4) Free from epilepsy and has been free from any lapses of consciousness for a period of time prescribed by the certifying agency.
5) Have successfully completed an EMT course approved by the State of Oregon. (ORS 823.130 and 823.150)
Application for EMT certification is accompanied by written and practical examinations. EMT certification lasts for two years. During each of those two years, the EMT must maintain continuing education, including CPR and Defibrillation training, as prescribed by the certifying agency. If continuing education is not maintained, the EMT certification is revoked. (ORS 823.150(5))
After receiving their Oregon State Certification, all EMTs will have a minimum of one year of active EMT service at the new level before the department will sponsor any training for advancement to the next level. Exceptions to this rule can be made only by approval of both the Fire Chief and the Board of Directors. All EMT’s will provide a copy of their current certification within 5 working days to the Fire Chief.
1.10 Radio Communications
1.10.A. General Rules and Guidelines for radio use;
1) Avoid unnecessary transmissions. Be brief, accurate and to the point.
2) Do not transmit until determining if the air is clear.
3) Any unit at a working fire or medical emergency scene has priority over any other transmissions.
4) Do not use profane or obscene language on the air.
5) Hold the microphone at a slight angle and one to two inches from the mouth. Do not shout, pitch the voice high rather than low.
6) Speak calmly, clearly, and distinctly, in a natural conversational rhythm at a medium speed.
7) Avoid laying the microphone on the seat of the vehicle where it may be keyed causing interference and locking up the channel.
8) Follow the departmental procedures using the proper code words and numerical designations where necessary.
9) Do not touch the antenna when transmitting. Radio frequency burns may result.
10) Think about what you are going to say before you say it over the air. This helps keep messages brief, understandable, and to the point.
1.10.B. Clear text radio communication code words.
On Scene The identified unit has arrived at the incident.
Available Means that the unit is capable and ready to respond to another incident.
Cancel and Return The specific apparatus is not needed and is to return to quarters.
Clear the Air Stop transmitting, standby for emergency priority traffic.
Continue Indicates that identified apparatus will continue to the incident.
1.10.B. cont........................
Code Refers to EMT calls, a full cardiac arrest.
Code 1 Respond or responding, as soon as possible without lights or siren. NOTE: There shall be no Code 2 within the Monroe RFPD, it is prohibited by state law.
Code 3 An emergency response with lights and sirens.
Responding Indicating that the apparatus identified is responding to the incident.
Fully Involved Indicates structure is totally consumed in flames and will require an outside attack (see Defensive).
Staging (level one) Indicates that apparatus will park at least the equivalent of one block away from the incident in the direction of travel.
Staging (level two) Indicates that apparatus will park at the designated location set by the incident commander. The first arriving unit officer will be designated as the staging officer (this person will assume all responsibilities of the staging officer and report directly to the incident commander). Staging will park in the most efficient way possible allowing for ease of inputting and discharging units and personnel. For means of identification the staging officer will be the only unit in staging with overheads running and will wear a vest identifying them as the staging officer.
In Quarters The unit identified is at its permanently assigned station.
Location A question, requesting information as to where the apparatus is.
Request M.E. Request for Medical Examiner at the scene.
Request BCSO Officer Request for police officer at the scene.
Traffic Control Request for traffic control at the scene.
Nothing Showing An indication that the arriving apparatus can see nothing obvious at the scene.
1.10.B cont...............
Primary all clear A report from the scene that the primary building search has been completed and no victims have been found.
R P Reporting Party. The person who called.
Returning Indicates that identified apparatus is leaving the scene and returning to quarters.
Secondary all clear A report from the scene that a second and more detailed building search has been completed and no victims have been found.
Smoke showing A report from apparatus arriving at an incident that indicates visible smoke coming from the structure. Give a description of the smoke i.e.: black smoke under pressure showing form the Alfa-Delta eves, gray smoke showing from the Charlie side window.
Unavailable A report from officer that indicates that the apparatus is not available for calls.
Working fire A report from arriving officer that a full compliment of apparatus will be needed and the equipment will be committed to the scene for an extended period of time.
Offensive A report from arriving officer that this fire is going to be an interior attack and that you have staffing for two in-two out, RIT and a sufficient water supply for the incident. Example “command to all Monroe units, we are going offensive side Alfa to Charlie”
Transitional A report from arriving officer that the fire has vented and that there is insufficient staffing at this time will not allow an offensive attack, so you are going to do an indirect attack from the outside and then go offensive (inside) upon the establishment of two in-two out. Example “command to all Monroe units, we are in a transitional attack from side Charlie”
Defensive A report from arriving officer that a structure involvement or value vs. risk is as such that requires a defensive approach or attack on that structure. Efforts will be put into surrounding the structure and protecting exposures. Example “command to all Monroe units, we are in a defensive attack”
1.10.B cont...............
Investigating A report from arriving officer that only light smoke or no smoke is showing and there is no IDLH environment. You and crew are going to be investigating the structure and the cause for the call. Example “command to all Monroe units, no smoke showing we will be investigating”
Preparing A report from arriving officer that the fire has not vented, you do not have enough staffing on scene but you know this is going to be an offensive fire. You are going to get everything set up (lines laid, fan started for positive pressure ventilation and running at a 90 degree to entry, RIT set up, adequate water supply. Example “command to all Monroe units, we are preparing for an offensive attack side Alfa to Charlie”
Rescue A report from arriving officer that there is either a known rescue or you has compelling evidence that a search and rescue problem exists. It is imperative that you be very specific and use the exact terminology, you are now two in-two out exempt. You must inform your crew and other units coming in what your plan is. Example “command to all Monroe units, command is mobile we have a known rescue on the second floor, Alfa-Bravo corner. 1711 will be making entry side Alfa with a hose line”
Examples of phrases using Clear Text;
Dispatch "(tones) Station 17. Station 17 a possible structure fire at 24703 Territorial Hwy, 1433."
1711 "Station 17 1711 is responding to 24703 Territorial Hwy."
Dispatch ”Copy 1711, responding to a structure fire at 24703 Territorial Hwy, this will be approximately 1/4 mile south of Monroe, 1446."
1711 " Station 17 1711 is on scene, gray smoke showing from the Charlie side window." 1711 will be making a transitional attack from Alfa to Charlie.
1.10.C Radio Frequency Assignment
F-1 154.340 Benton County Fire frequency.
F-2 154.220 Philomath Tactical channel.
F-3 154.430 Lane County (tack 3)
F-4 154.205 Lane County (tack 3)
F-5 156.195 Corvallis Tactical
F-6 154.280 State Fire Net (used on large events only)
F-7 155.340 Hear #1 (Goodsam)
F-8 155.400 Hear #2 (Goodsam)
F-9 151.445 Oregon State Forestry (repeater)
F-10 151.175 Oregon State Forestry (direct)
F-11 154.310 Linn County Fire (F1)
F-12 156.090 Benton County Sheriff Office (repeater)
F-13 155.490 Benton County Sheriff Office (direct)
F-14 162.425 Weather Salem
F-15 154.130 Linn County Fire (F2)
F-16 153.995 Linn County Fire (F3)
1.10.D Tone Assignment
The tones for Monroe RFPD shall be;
Station 17
1.11 Responding Guide
1.11.A Standard Apparatus Responding Guide
Incident Type Response1st Alarm Structure Fire All Engines / One RescueFlue Fire Three Engines, one from each stationGrass Fire Three Engines, two tendersEMS Call Three RescueMotor Vehicle Accident One Engine (1711) / Three RescueMotor Vehicle Fire Three Engines, one from each stationGas leak/Fuel Spill/Haz-Mat Two Engines / One RescueSmoke Investigation/Alarm Act. Three Engines, one from each stationMutual Aid Pumper As RequestedMutual Aid Tender As Requested
NOTE: On all rural fires, at least one tender will respond. This is a guide to follow under normal situations. Things may change due to the type of incident or after the initial size-up has been made.
1.11.B Mutual Aid
Mutual Aid will be called through Dispatch in Corvallis. The incident commander will specify what is needed, i.e. pumpers, tenders, staffing, etc. Incident Command shall also specify whether the mutual aid apparatus is to respond to the scene or to Station 17, Station 2 or Station 3.
1.11.C Hazardous Materials Incidents
RESPONSE:In general, haz-mat incident call for a four-person crew to respond on the closest engine. No more fire fighters should respond than there is air packs. It is the standard of the Monroe Rural Fire Protection District that only Haz-Mat Operation & Awareness trained personnel will respond on any response.
AT STATION:Someone should stand-by on Station 17's base radio at all times if staffing levels allow.
ON SCENE:Size UpFirst arriving unit******, when you arrive on scene, make sure that you are parked a safe distance uphill and up wind from the incident with all apparatus parked facing away from the incident (see the hazardous materials field checklist in 1711). Next, incident command must be established.
1.11.C cont........
The highest ranking officer on scene will assume command, but this command can be passed to another person within the Monroe RFPD. If you call for outside help, the people who come will help and advise Monroe command, but they will NOT take over command. This is also the time to designate a Safety Officer (APD Rules) to oversee the entire scene from a safety standpoint.
HAZ-MAT Identification and CommunicationStop the engine far from danger and take a look. Try to find out what the hazardous material is and try to build information. Product Identification is a primary goal when you first arrive. There are DOT manuals in the cab of all apparatus, but you should confirm any information with a second source. This is also a good time to have Dispatch call and notify the Oregon Accident Response System (OARS) at 1-800-452-0311. Whenever a hazardous material threatens human life, animal life, the environment, property damage, and/or financial loss OARS must be called. When OARS is called they will need to know the following;
1) Your identity2) Where you are3) Call back number (closest station phone, or cell phone)4) Type of incident5) Location of incident
6) How did the incident occur7) Severity of the incident (what is threatened)8) Any actions that you have taken, i.e. incident command
established, local authorities notified, evacuation9) In some cases a "RQ" (Reportable Quality) will be involved. You
will know if it is a reportable quality by looking at the shipping papers. An "RQ" requires that the National Response Center (NRC) be called. OARS will do this for you, but you will have to request it most of the time. OARS will also call Chemtrac, the DEQ, and other agencies if you request them to do so. In any case Communicate back to Dispatch and to Station 17 what you have found so that more information can be obtained by people who are not on scene.
Decide on an Action
You must estimate what will happen in the future based on your options. Estimate what the outcomes of your options will be. Don't forget about decontamination, if you be come contaminated, you will have to be properly decontaminated. Determine if you can handle this on your own or if you need help. Take into account things such as amount of substance, weather conditions, and closeness to populations, hot warm and cold zones etc.
1.11.C cont........
If there is even a remote possibility of evacuation of people living in the area, notify Dispatch and Station 17 so that they can get ready. Ultimately, you must protect yourself and your crew from harm. Also think about the apparatus, if you are going to park, park so that you are facing away from the incident for a quick exit.
Your Action Options Are
1. Rescue - This must be done intelligently, do you have to have the proper clothing to do the job, is decon set up and ready to receive your crew and patient, do you what hazard you are dealing with? Don't add to the problem by adding yourself or your crew to the list of victims.
2. Hazard Mitigation - This may be containment of what has already happened, without getting close to the actual incident.
3. Wait for more information.
4. Call for assistance form Corvallis Haz-Mat team.
5. Retreat and/or do nothing (this is an option!).
6. Some other action dictated by the incident.
Taking ActionFor all actions you must do the following;
1. Establish the proper zones
COLD ZONE - This is where people and equipment are staged. This must be at a safe distance, preferably uphill and upwind from the incident.
WARM ZONE - This is where decontamination is set up and where the entrance and exit between the hot zone and the cold zone will be set up. This is still placed in a relatively safe distance from the incident, but access to this zone should be limited to only those directly necessary for working with the mitigation team or in decontamination.
HOT ZONE - This is the area directly around the hazard that will require the proper protective clothing, breathing apparatus and training before entry can be made. In many situations you, Monroe RFPD, will not be able to enter this zone. Hazard intervention is not for the first responder and may require equipment (protective clothing and tools) that we do not have. Any area where there is a threat to life should be considered part of the hot zone.
2. Always work in two's - If you are going to make entry into the hot zone, you must use the buddy system and work in pairs. There will also be a backup team ready and in place before you make entry.
3. Medical support - If you make entry you will need to have Basic Life Support unit that is capable of transport on scene.
4. Decontamination set up - In general it is best to get the decontamination set up before you make entry. This is preferred because it ensures that you will have decontamination.
5. Evaluate your progress constantly - Try to identify what gains are being made and always be thinking of alternate plans.
1.11.D DecontaminationBefore returning to the station, you must be properly decontaminated. This might be a simple hose off with a booster line, or maybe as complex as a shower, where all your garments are removed and disposed of by trained professionals. The nature of the decontamination will be determined by the type of material involved, and professional advice on what to do will be necessary in all cases.
This is a general guideline to follow and you should remember, that all incidents are different. The DOT guidebook will provide useful guidelines to follow. This process may range from 10 seconds to 10 hours. REMEMBER: Protect yourself and your crew from harm, and don't be afraid to call for help. Calling OARS in most cases is a "must".
HELPFUL INFORMATION
Oregon Accident Response System 1-800-452-0311 (Main Haz-Mat Number)
Chemtrec 1-800-424-9300 (National Haz-Mat Number)
DEQ 1-800-452-4011
Northwest Natural Gas 926-1252 (Business)226-4211 (Day/ Night)
Pacific Power 258-3188 (Day/Night)
Consumer Power 929-3124 (Day/Night)
PP&L 1-888-221-7070(Day/Night)
NWFF Environmental 1-541-929-4884(Day/Night)
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS FIELD CHECKLIST FOR FIRST RESPONSE
Size Up_____ Approach uphill and upwind
_____ Stop and observe from safe distance
_____ Determine if emergency rescue is required and can be done safely
_____ Establish Incident Command (tell dispatch when you do this)
_____ Establish a Safety Officer
Identification and Communication
_____ Examine placards and shipping papers
_____ Interview driver, owner or manager
_____ Look up in DOT manual and one other source. DOT guide #_______________
_____ Wind Direction - from ____ to _____
_____ Have Dispatch call OARS and NRC if it is an RQ (reportable quantity).
Information needed for OARS and/or NRC;
_____ Your identity
_____ Call back number
_____ Type and amount of material involved (name of substance if known)
Haz-Mat cont................
_____ Hazard involved (health, environment)
_____ How the incident occurred, injuries, contamination, exposures
_____ What actions you have taken at this time
Decide on an Action Plan
_____ Evacuation, if necessary
_____ Rescue, if it can be done safely
_____ Hazard mitigation (do only what you can do safely)
_____ Call for assistance
_____ Nothing or retreat - wait for more information
Take Action_____ Establish cold, warm, and hot zones
_____ Set up decontamination (if action taken will require)
_____ Establish medical support (a BLS transporting unit)
_____ Take action identified above
Safety First and Always Work in Two's.
1.12 Out of District Response
1.12.A Fire Suppression and Emergency Medical Services
Monroe Rural Fire Protection District will not respond to fires, medical calls, or emergencies outside the rural fire protection district, except in one or more of the following circumstances;
1. The fire or emergency is threatening property within the rural fire protection district.
2. The fire, medical call, or emergency is in a special contract area.
3. When requested by the appropriate agencies under the mutual aid agreements of the Monroe Rural Fire Protection District, or the Oregon State Conflagration Act.
4. When there is a known and definite human life threatened by fire.
5. When, in the judgment of the Fire Chief or his designee, sufficient resources (apparatus and people) can be sent to safely control
the fire, or aid in a medical situation, without sacrificing the quality of fire protection or medical care to the people protected by the Monroe Rural Fire Protection District. On decisions for medical calls, the highest Officer & ranking EMT shall decide whether or not there are sufficient resources to go out of the district, but the Fire Chief or his designee shall reserve the right to override that decision.
In the event of a response to an area outside of the district, not subject to contract agreement or mutual aid agreement, charges for service may be billed to the property owner or person cared for as follows; (Note these charges are at the discretion Chief or the Board of Directors)
FIRES - as allowed by ORS 476.280, 476.290, 478.310;
$500 minimum charge for response of apparatus$250 for each apparatus per hour pro-rated for each fraction of an
hour after the first hour.$20 per hour (minimum charge-one hour) for each person
responding to and performing service at the scene of the fire emergency. This must be billed on a pro-rated basis after the first hour for any fractional hours of service.
1.12.A cont..........
EMS
$250 minimum charge for response of medical rescue unit. $100 per hour for medical rescue unit or fraction of an hour thereof.$20 per hour or fraction thereof, minimum charge one hour, for each person responding to and performing services at the scene of the emergency. This is in addition to the charges of the ambulance service, medical supplies, and any equipment used on scene. (Note these charges are at the discretion Chief or the Board of Directors)
1.12.B Highway, Aircraft, and Out-of-District Persons Billing
PurposeTo recover costs incurred due to services provided on a transportation route, including roadway, waterway, or railroad right-of-way, against which no taxes or assessments for fire protection are levied, or aircraft incident. Also to recover costs for any aircraft incidents as per ORS 478.310. Persons residing within the boundaries of the district will not be billed in these incidents, with the
exception of hazardous materials incidents. Persons residing within the district are not exempt from billing for costs incurred due to a hazardous materials incident. (Note these charges are at the discretion Chief or his appointee and may be waved)
Rate Schedule:
$500 minimum charge for response of apparatus$250 for each apparatus per hour following the first hour and pro-rated portions for each fraction of an hour after the first hour.$250 per hour for medical rescue unit or fraction of an hour thereof.$20 per hour (minimum charge-one hour) for each person responding to and performing service at the scene of the fire emergency. This must be billed on a pro-rated basis after the first hour for any fractional hours of service. Charges for apparatus, manpower, and equipment will be for actual use at the scene. No charges will be billed for apparatus, manpower, and equipment not actually used on scene. Charges will be made for the replacement of all supplies used, i.e. road flares, fire extinguishers, foam, medic supplies.
1.12.C Procedure for Out-of-District Response - applies to both 1.12.A and 1.12.B.
The Incident Command Officer in charge shall obtain or see that someone at the scene obtains the following information;
1.12 cont……
1. Names of persons involved, including name of person requesting service.
2. Residence address, and mailing address if different, and phone numbers of person involved.
3. Insurance company's name, address, and phone number of persons involved. In the event that this information is not available due to the fact that persons involved are being transported by the medic unit, the information will be acquired at a later time from the medic unit's department or from other agencies. Any time that charges are uncertain a decision will be made by the department's Rural Board of Directors. All funds billed for and collected for any highway, aircraft, or out-of-district calls will be made payable to the Monroe Rural Fire Protection District. These funds are to be deposited in the RFPD account and cannot be spent until budgeted for.
1.12.D Statement of ORS 478.310
RESPONSE TO FIRE OR PUBLIC SAFETY INCIDENT OUTSIDE its OWN TERRITORY BY DISTRICT OR MUNICIPALITY. LIABILITY FOR COST.
1. When a fire or public safety incident outside the limits of the district and help is asked of the district, the fire fighting or public safety apparatus and force of the district may, with or without a contract to do so, be used for extinguishing the fire or responding to the public safety incident in other unprotected or inadequately protected district or territory. However, the district so responding shall be paid the contract or reasonable value for use, including repairs and depreciation, of the apparatus and equipment so used and other expenses reasonably incurred in furnishing the fire fighting or public safety service.
2. When a district responds to a call for assistance arising from an incident involving an airplane crash or an incident occurrence on a transportation route within the city or district, the district or city may recover from the person or property receiving the direct fire or safety services as a result of the incident and cost incurred for the following;A. The contract or reasonable value of use, including repairs and depreciation, of the apparatus and equipment used in accordance with the state standardized-costs schedule issued by the State Fire Marshal; andB. Other expenses or costs reasonably incurred in furnishing the assistance, as adopted by the service provider.
1.12.D cont............
3. As used in this section, "transportation route: means a roadway, waterway, or railroad right-of-way against which no taxes or assessments for fire protection are levied by the district. [Amended by 1969 c.667123: 193 c.57211: 1987 c.83412]
See also, Chapter 683 of Oregon Laws 1971.
1.13 INFECTIOUS DISEASE EXPOSURE AND CONTROL POLICY
PURPOSE:
To establish guidelines for pre-hospital care, firefighters to assist in minimizing risk of contracting and/or spreading communicable diseases, and to expedite appropriate treatment where necessary.
NOTE: Each Monroe RFPD firefighter after joining the department will be inoculated with the Hepatitis B vaccine within 6 months - 1 year, depending on their status in the recruit academy training. Each firefighter will be tested once every three (3) years for Hepatitis B. The test will determine the presence of the Hepatitis B antibodies. Each firefighter will also be tested once a year for tuberculosis (TB). If the firefighter has been exposed to TB multiple times, he/she may be required to be tested twice a year.
SCOPE:
It is the responsibility of the Fire Chief to establish, implement, and enforce this policy.It is the responsibility of the Officers to know, follow, implement, and enforce this policy.It is the responsibility of the Officers to assure that the necessary equipment and supplies to comply with policy are available to the employees. It is further their responsibility to coordinate with Corvallis Fire Department, Benton County Health Department & Good Samaritan Hospital the necessary communication, contracts, and finances to comply with this policy, state, and federal laws.It is the responsibility of the Officers to see that the initial and update training takes place as required by this policy, state, and federal requirements.All personnel are responsible to know and follow this policy. Furthermore, they are responsible to follow the proper reporting procedures and fill out the proper records as required.
1.13 cont…..
OBJECTIVES:
1. Institute safety procedures for implementation whenever providing emergency medical care.
2. Protect the privacy of firefighters and patients who may be exposed to or contract any communicable diseases.
3. Implement a system for tracking and follow up of personnel who may be exposed to a communicable disease.
4. Provide a preventative program to minimize contraction or communicable disease.
5. Assure proper treatment is provided once it is determined that a significant exposure has occurred.
6. To provide protection for both the firefighter and fire district from the disastrous results of infectious exposure or contraction.
7. Follow the requirements set forth by the Oregon OSHA Division and other pertinent state and federal regulations.
DEFINITIONS:
For the purpose of clarity, the following definitions will apply:
1. Cleaning: The physical removal of organic matter or soil from objects (Example: Wash with water, with or without detergent).
2. Disinfecting: The process of killing an infectious agent outside the body by either chemical or physical means.
3. Sterilizing: The complete removal and/or destruction of all microbial life forms by steam, gas, or liquid agents.
4. Hand Scrub: A vigorous scrub of hands, fingers, cuticles, and nails with hot water and disinfecting agent for at least 30 seconds.
5. Infectious Disease Control Practitioner: In station, this will be the Officer in charge or their appointee, at the hospital, it will be the designated hospital staff person, or if this person is not available, the on-duty nursing supervisor.
1.13 cont..........
Training: The district will provide training on the subject of infectious disease control to all its personnel at least once per year. Training will include the following: epidemiology, modes of transmission, prevention of ABV, HIV, and other blood borne infectious diseases, and protective measures that may be used to prevent exposure.
PROCEDURES:REPORTING RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. It will be the responsibility of the individual firefighter to know and understand this policy, and to follow the necessary reporting and documentation.
2. Each individual firefighter will be responsible to document vaccinations and exposures so that the fire district can document proper records.
3. Each individual is responsible for knowing the exposure procedures and who they will report exposures to.
4. Each individual who has an exposure will do the necessary follow-up testing for infectious disease and vaccination as prescribed by the hospital infection control practitioner and state and federal regulations.
EXPOSURE DETERMINATION:
The following is a list of firefighter job classifications that may become exposed to blood or other potentially infectious materials. It should be noted that these job classifications are listed without regard to any personal protective equipment, or frequency. This list is not an all inclusive list, job classifications can be added to by the Fire Chief, Board of Directors or other government officials that are acting within their authority and jurisdiction to in act public services.
JOB DESCRIPTIONS:
1. Rescue Work2. Firefighting3. Haz-Mat Response4. Medical Duties
1.13 cont..........
The following is a list of job classifications in which some firefighters have occupational exposures:
JOB CLASSIFICATIONS:
1. Haz-Mat2. Fire Prevention3. Routine Training4. Medical Response
The following is a list of tasks and procedures or groups of closely related tasks and procedures in which occupational exposure
occurs. Please note, the Monroe RFPD has listed all tasks and procedures including those that are not expected to incur exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials. We have done so in an effort to clearly understand which firefighters, tasks and procedures are considered to have occupational exposure.
TASKS AND PROCEDURES:
1. Patient Care (Residential and Business)2. Motor Vehicle Crashes3. Fire Station - Walk-in Patients4. In-house Injury5. Mutual Aid Response6. Hazardous Materials Response
COMPLIANCE METHOD:
The Monroe RFPD observes "UNIVERSAL PRECAUTIONS" in an effort to prevent contact with blood or any other potentially infectious materials. All human blood and any other potentially infectious material are considered infectious.
PREVENTION GUIDELINES:
SECTION A: GENERAL
1. Disposable gloves shall be worn whenever exposure to body fluids, vomit, or excreta is present, gloves are to be changed in-between multiple patients.
2. Contamination needles are to be disposed of without recapping, in the proper receptacle immediately after use. NOTE: (See sharps disposal, Section B).
SECTION A cont..........
3. When the possibility of splashes of fluid are present eye-wear, gloves, and mask shall be worn.
4. When respiratory ventilation is necessary, a protective device such as a BVM, pocket mask or microshield should be used when ever possible.
5. Disposable face mask shall be worn when dealing with an actively coughing patient. If the patient can tolerate the mask, have them wear one. Ask the patient to turn their head away from you when coughing if possible.
6. Thorough hand washing with an antibacterial soap at the station following all patient contacts regardless of the communicable disease status of the patient.
7. Equipment used for patient care shall be disinfected before being returned to duty (See decontamination procedures).
8. Clothing contaminated with body fluids, vomit, or excreta should be changed as soon as possible and decontaminated. Clothing is not to be taken home to be washed (See decontamination procedures).
9. Dispose of contaminated supplies in a plastic bag (bio bag) in an approved receptacle at the station. If the possibility exists that
the bag shall have contaminates on the outside, a second bag, covering the first, shall be used.
SECTION B: NEEDLE AND SHARPS DISPOSAL
1. Disposable sharp instruments shall be placed in the appropriate container immediately following their use. Do not stick needle into seat or other upholstered material.
2. Puncture resistant containers shall be located as close as practical to the area in which sharps will be used.
3. Needles, where not required for re-use, shall not be recapped, removed, bent, or otherwise manipulated by hand.
4. Any time needles or sharps are in use a “hands free zone” exists from the sight of use to the sharps container. No one but for the EMT with the needle or sharps is to have access to that zone until the needle or sharps are safely and securely placed into an approved container.
SECTION C: IMMUNIZATION
1. All personnel who provide patient care should have knowledge of their immunization status and have logged this in their vaccination records for the following diseases:
A. TetanusB. DiphtheriaC. Hepatitis BD. PolioE. MumpsF. Rubella (German Measles)
G. Chicken Pox (Varnelia)H. TuberculosisI. Small Pox
DECONTAMINATION PROCEDURES:
SECTION A: EQUIPMENT DISINFECTION
Equipment which has been contaminated with blood or other body fluid of any patient shall be decontaminated after each use as follows:
1. Large rescue equipment such as backboard, KED, splints, etc. Should be scrubbed of all foreign matter with a disinfectant/detergent, sprayed down with a 1:10 bleach solution or an approved disinfectant and then allowed to air dry.
2. Washable equipment should be scrubbed as free as possible of all foreign matter, and washed in a hot water/disinfectant/detergent solution. This will include items such as BP cuffs (detachable bladder type), MAST suite, cot/backboard straps, and C-collar.
3. Delicate equipment such as the Lp-500/300, radios, and suction unit should be wiped down with a 1:10 bleach solution or commercial disinfectant. NOTE: Areas of new equipment should be tested for reaction to these solutions before use on the whole piece of equipment to ensure no damage will be caused by them.
4. Air-Way devices will be cleaned in a 1:10 bleach solution or other commercial disinfectant solution for at least 10 minutes, removed, rinsed, and allowed to air dry. non-immersible equipment should be scrubbed & clean without immersing them in liquid, and then sprayed down with 1:10 bleach solution or other commercial disinfectant and allowed to air dry.
SECTION B: CLOTHING DISINFECTION
Clothing which has been contaminated with blood, vomit, or other body fluids of any patient should be decontaminated as soon as possible in the following manner:
1. Contaminated clothing should be changed as soon as possible, including turnout gear. These items should be laundered as per the manufacturer's instructions at the station and using department equipment.
2. Personnel should use exam gloves whenever handling contaminated clothing.
3. Clothing should be washed in a hot water/disinfectant/detergent solution. If grossly soiled, a pre-wash soaking/scrubbing is recommended using the same cleansing combination to remove the maximum amount of contaminate.
4. Boots, either leather or turnout, can be scrub brushed with hot water and soap to remove contaminates.
5. Passenger spaces and transport equipment should be cleaned and disinfected when contaminated as per department procedures.
6. Contaminated patient clothing articles shall be placed in a plastic bag, sealed and marked contaminated and left with the patient.
SECTION C: SUPPLIES DISINFECTION
Supplies that have been contaminated with body fluids and are disposable, are not to be disinfected, but shall be disposed of as follows:
1. All contaminated supplies except sharps should be placed in a plastic bio bag, double bag if necessary if first bag develops a leak, and disposed of at the main station in the appropriate container marked Bio-Hazard. This container will be disposed of by Corvallis Disposal in accordance with local laws.
2. Sharps, (needles, glass vials, lancets, scalpels, etc.) shall be disposed of at the scene of an emergency in the proper containers by the person who administers the procedure if possible. All personnel should make sure nothing is left at the scene to cause an exposure hazard to the general public.
SECTION D: PERSONNEL DISINFECTION
Hand washing should be automatic following any patient contact regardless of the patient's status. However, in the instance of direct contact with body fluids and/or excreta, it is of the utmost importance. Use of antibacterial soap and plenty of hot water combined with vigorous scrubbing is the most effective tool to fight transmission of disease.
OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURES:
SECTION A: POST EXPOSURE EVALUATION AND FOLLOW-UP
The Monroe RFPD responsible party for post exposure evaluation and follow-up, is listed in the attached material. When a firefighter incurs an exposure incident it shall be reported, investigated, and documented to the Monroe RFPD Fire Chief with assistance of the Corvallis Fire Department EMS Officer. Monroe RFPD Fire Chief is in charge of post exposure evaluations and follow-up.
The exposed firefighter shall immediately receive a confidential medical evaluation and follow-up including at least the following elements:
1. All circumstances surrounding the exposure and the route of exposure shall be documented by the person exposed.
2. Identification documentation of the source individual shall be established unless such identification cannot be made or is unfeasible or prohibited by state or federal law. (In all cases, the Monroe RFPD will comply with state and federal laws governing this information.)
3. The source individual's blood shall be tested as soon as feasible and after consent is obtained in order to determine HBV or HIV infection. If consent cannot be obtained, the Monroe RFPD shall establish that legally required consent cannot be obtained. When the source individual consent is not required by law, the source individual's blood if available shall be tested and the results documented.
4. When the source individual is already known to be infected with HBV or HIV, testing for the source individual's known HBV or HIV status need not be repeated.
5. Results of the source individual's testing shall be made available to the exposed firefighter and the firefighter shall be informed of applicable regulations concerning disclosure of the individual and infectious status of the source individual.
SECTION A cont.........
Collection of the testing of blood for HBV and HIV serological status:
1. The exposed individual's blood shall be collected as soon as feasible and tested after consent is obtained.
2. If the firefighter consents to baseline blood collection but does not give consent at the time for HIV serologic testing, the
sample shall be preserved for at least 90 days. If within 90 days of the exposure incident the firefighter elects to have the base line sample tested, such test shall be done as soon as feasible. Post exposure prophylaxis when medically indicated as recommended by the U.S. Public Health Services.
All firefighters who incur an exposure will be offered post exposure evaluation follow-up in accordance with the OR-OSHA standards. All exposure follow-up will be performed by the designated clinic and physician of the Monroe RFPD. Counseling and evaluation of reported illnesses, as well as, the appropriate confidentiality will be part of the standard post evaluation policy.
QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE
The following is a quick reference guide to the common communicable diseases that pre-hospital care personnel may encounter.
Exposure and actions necessary for these diseases can roughly be categorized into three levels.
EXPOSURE CATEGORY ACTION CATEGORY
Level I
Contact limited to merely being A. No special actionin the presence of a person sus- required.pected of having a communicabledisease.
Level II
Contamination of intact skin, B. Follow decontamin-clothing, or equipment by ation procedures.victim's body fluids.Quick reference guide cont…….
Level III
Exposure of open skin/mucus or C. Notify Officer in chargeconjunctival membranes to vic- & Fire Chief ASAP.tim's body fluids, i.e., blood,vomit, feces.
THIS CATEGORY INCLUDES:
1. Ingestion of possible contaminated foods.
2. Needle stick injuries.
3. Human bites.
4. Exposure to aerosolized respiratory secretions of Tuberculosis patients.
5. Exposure to respiratory secretions of Meningococcal patients.
1.14 Confined Space Rescue
1.14.A. Scope: The purpose of this SOG is to establish a policy for the Monroe RFPD in dealing with confined space rescue and to recognize the limitations of the firefighters for confined space rescue.
The fire department has always been the agency of choice to deal with rescue and emergency medical procedures, and accordingly, has usually been first on the scene where rescues needed to be made from traditionally tight quarters or restricted areas. "Confined space" is a new term for an old mission long carried out by the nation's fire service.
NIOSH (the National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health) has defined a confined space as a "space which by design has limited opening for entry and exit; unfavorable natural ventilation which could produce dangerous air contaminants; and which is not intended for continuous occupancy". Now this definition has been broadened as of Jan. 14, 1993, by OSHA (the Occupational Safety & Health Administration) and subcategorized into a definition where the fire department will be called upon to utilize its skills. The new definition is now called "permit-required confined space."
OSHA defines a confined space which has the following characteristics:
1.14 cont……1) is large enough and so configured that an employee can bodily enter and perform assigned work,2) has limited or restricted means for entry or exit,3) is designed for continuous firefighter occupancy.
OSHA defines a permit-required confined space as an enclosed space which:
1) contains or has a potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere,2) contains a material with the potential for engulfing an entrant,3) has an internal configuration such that an entrant could be
trapped or asphyxiated by inwardly converging walls or by a floor which slopes downward and tapers to a smaller cross section,
4) contains any other recognized serious safety or health hazard.
CONFINED SPACE HAZARDS
It is easy to see that the fire district could be called to a location where the definition of confined space would apply. It is important that the firefighter be able to recognize all the possibilities for injury when dealing with confined space rescue.
Of all the hazards found in confined space rescue, the most dangerous are those considered the atmospheric hazards. The three conditions that constitute the atmospheric hazards are:
1) oxygen deficient atmospheres,2) flammable atmospheres,3) toxic atmosphere.
It is critical that each of these hazards is properly understood.
RESPONSE TO CONFINED SPACE RESCUE:
It is the Monroe RFPD S.O.G. that under OSHA's confined space definition, we do not enter into a confined space to rescue victims. The fire district will notify the Dispatch to activate the Corvallis Fire Department Confined Space Rescue Team recognized by mutual aid agreements. It is the Monroe RFPD policy to prepare the confined space rescue site minimizing the risk of further danger to the victim(s) or firefighters prior to the Confined Space Rescue Team's arrival.
1.14 cont……Prior to the arrival of the Confined Space Rescue Team the Monroe RFPD officer in charge shall implement the following:
1) establish an Incident Command System,
2) secure the area for unauthorized personnel,3) recognize oxygen deficient, flammable, or toxic
atmospheres with the use of the MSA gas meter,4) secure the site, i.e.: clear debris from rescue site, if possible,
to restrict any further damage to victim or site, etc.,5) assist the Confined Space Rescue Team.
It is the responsibility of the Monroe RFPD fire chief to establish, implement, and enforce this policy.
It is the responsibility of the Monroe RFPD officers and personnel to know, follow, implement, and enforce this policy.
It is the responsibility of the fire chief to require and provide adequate training regarding these SOG’s. Training should be conducted at least once a year.
1.15 Water Rescue Policy
1.15.A Purpose: The purpose of this S.O.G. is to provide personnel with a basic standard plan for handling water rescue incidents. Emphasis is placed on safety of rescuers prior to committing to an attempted rescue.
1.15.B Scope: This S.O.G. covers the basic steps or milestones to be achieved at all water rescues.
1.15.C Definitions:
WATER RESCUE - refers to the rescue of live victims from water in which the current, depth, floating or submerged hazards, contamination, or other risks exist for the rescuers or victims.
RESCUE - refers to the acts involved in removing a live person from a place of danger to a place of safety.
RECOVERY - refers to the retrieval of a deceased person. Rescuers must assess conditions to determine if they are performing a RESCUE or a RECOVERY. Rescuers must not endanger themselves or others in the performance of a recovery. Recovery should be coordinated with representatives of the Benton County and/or Linn County Sheriff’s Department.
1.15.D Procedures:
This S.O.P. is not a substitute for water rescue training. It is intended to provide general guidelines for water rescue response and to emphasize safety issues related to these calls.
As in all responses, priority for rescue must be:
SELF SAFETY / RESCUESAFETY / RESCUE OF FELLOW RESPONDERSSAFETY / RESCUE OF VICTIM(S)
1.15.E Water Rescue Team Levels:
Level “A” Teams:
When activated, a Level “A” Team provides a minimum of five and a maximum of ten specially trained firefighter personnel for immediate response to water rescue emergencies.
The Level “A” team leader shall be a Rescue Officer listed for SRT Team Leader position and shall be at least SRT-1 certified.
Team members shall be selected based on need and availability. (See also “Team Member Selection”).
The Level “A” team shall consist of a minimum of five personnel, including the team leader. Each of these five personnel shall be currently certified to the level of Swift water Rescue Technician 1 and CPR.
At the discretion of the Fire Chief or Corvallis Fire Department officer, this five-member team may be augmented by additional personnel.
Level “A” teams may be activated and staged as needed to meet local rescue problems during periods of heavy precipitation.
A maximum of ten personnel will be listed in level “A” team membership. To remain listed, each member must re-certify their SRT-1 every two years and their CPR yearly.
Level “B” Teams:
A level “B” team provides a minimum of three trained and equipped personnel to assist in water rescue problems. Selected apparatus and personnel will be equipped and trained to this level. Level “B” teams may be required to assist Level “A” teams.
1.15 cont…….
This level “B” team shall consist of all or part of selected firefighters and shall have an understanding of rigging and other setups required by the level “A” teams.
Level “B” teams may start a water rescue but in no case attempt to perform at a level for which they have not been trained. They may perform LOW RISK water rescues. Such rescues would include the Talk, Reach, and Throw levels of rescue, and low risk wade-out rescues where the hazards of foot entrapment or being swept away are determined to be minimal. Level “B” teams should NOT do swimming rescues. Selected apparatus and personnel engines will by equipped and trained to the Swift water Rescue First Responder level.
1.15.F Level of Rescue Risk:
Water rescue activities can be classified in order of risk to the rescuer as follows:
TALK, REACH, THROW, ROW, GO, TOW, HELO.
Rescuers should evaluate the potential of each activity before proceeding to the next, riskier activity.
TALK: If the victim is capable of safely rescuing himself and merely needs instruction from rescuers, this may be done.
REACH: A hand, pike pole, or other item can be reached to the victim by a rescuer on shore.
THROW: A throw-bag or rope can be thrown to the victim who is then pulled to safety by the rescuer.
ROW: If available, a boat can be used to reach the victim.
GO, TOW: Swimming to perform rescues is hazardous to both the rescuer and the victim. These rescues should be done only by trained and equipped personnel and only if other efforts fail.
HELO: Helicopter rescues can be very hazardous and have a high potential for disaster. This is a last option rescue, to be considered only after eliminating all other options, weighing the “Risk-vs.-Benefit” factor, and only for rescues, never for recoveries.
Level “B” teams and personnel lacking equipment, training, and/or adequate resources should limit themselves to the Talk, Reach, and/or Throw options. If additional help is needed, request it immediately.
1.15.G 15 Absolutes and Safety Rules:
Personnel should operate within their scope of training, equipment, experience and capability.
Always wear an approved personal floatation device (PFD), when working in the water or within the “hot zone” as defined by the Incident Commander (usually within ten feet of the water’s edge).
Never wear turnout gear, turnout boots, or wildland structure helmet when working in the water or in the designated “hot zone”. Each of these items makes swimming in moving water more hazardous. Given a choice between a fire helmet and no helmet, ALWAYS go with no helmet.
Always deploy upstream spotters above the location of rescue operations; ideally on both sides of the river. Spotters must immediately warn others of floating or submerged debris, which may pose a threat to rescuers and/or victims. Two short, loud blasts on a whistle indicates danger upstream.
The priorities at the scene are always self/safety rescue first, the safety and rescue of fellow rescuers second, and the safety/rescue of victims last.
Always have a back-up or contingency plan, and have the resources present to accomplish this plan immediately.
Always have multiple downstream back-ups. This may require staging companies at downstream bridges in addition to the use of throw bag and swimmer back-ups downstream at the rescue site.
Always keep it simple. Safety and simplicity are key elements to successful rescues. Avoid complex rope systems unless they are truly necessary.
Always use the right equipment. Inadequate or inappropriate equipment has led to a number of failed rescues.
Never put your feet down if swept away and swimming. Keep feet up and pointed downstream to protect you from foot entrapments and from obstructions in the river. Because of the dangers inherent in swimming in swift water, only personnel properly trained and equipped should do so.
Never count on the victim to assist in their own rescue. Panic, hypothermia, confusion and/or injury may prevent the victim from
following simple commands. Be prepared to perform the rescue without the assistance from the victim.
1.15.G cont.........
Never tie a rope around a rescuer. The rescuer must be able to swim free of the rope if the situation changes. The only exception is the use of a blowout ring or a live bait ring on a personal floatation device by a swimmer trained in this evolution. (This is a high-risk option to be avoided if possible).
When tensioning a line across the river to be used for in-water safety or walking stream crossings, never tension the line at right angles to the current. Furthermore, never clip into such a line directly. (This rule does not apply to high line systems for boat handling or litter evacuation). Run your line a 45-degree angle to the current vector so the current will assist rather than hinder your travel. Hold the rope or hold a carabineer and strap clipped into the rope, but do not tie yourself into the rope.
While tensioning a line across the river, never stand inside the bight, and always stand on the upstream side of the rope. Should the system fail, this rule reduces the likelihood of injuries to the rescuer.
Always be pro-active. Plan ahead with pre-plans, training, and drills. Order resources as soon as they appear to be necessary - they can always be staged or canceled.
1.15.H Searches
In any case where the victims have not been immediately located, the Incident Command (IC) should:
Perform a size-up; determine number, age, description, condition, and last seen location of victims and their vehicles.
Establish an Incident Command post and keep witnesses there.
Isolate the river and deny entry to untrained and/or unequipped personnel and civilians. Do not allow additional victims to be created.
Request additional resources. This may include but is not limited to, a Chief Officer, Level “A” and/or Level “B” teams, Sheriff’s Department for search teams, search dogs, helicopters (if in recovery mode), chaplain (to assist victim’s family), mutual aid, etc.
Request dispatcher to dispatch unit's downstream at river access points where floating victims might be rescued. Consider lead time, response time, and the speed of the current to determine how many points and how far downstream to cover.
1.15.H cont..........
Perform downstream search, but keep rescuer safety as a priority and don’t over-commit your resources.
Brief incoming resources. Keep track of actions taken and times, if possible.
After searching an automobile or structure, indicate the search by marking an “OK” on the vehicle or structure, and mark the date and time of the search and who performed the search, if possible. Yellow tape may be wrapped at a visible point.
1.15.I Helicopters
Helicopters present a high-risk option to both rescuers and victims. Addressing safety issues must precede any use of helicopters. Even experienced helicopter crews may be unfamiliar with the effects of river currents on their ship and crew. Before a helicopter rescue is attempted with an unknown pilot and aircraft, the Incident Command must balance the life threat against the pilot and crew expertise and aircraft capabilities. Coordinate your planned use of the helicopter with the pilot before committing to the plan. Use of helicopters only as a last resort.
Helicopters can be used for (in order of increasing hazard):
Area reconnaissance to locate victims, hazards, river hydrology features, crossing points, etc.
Scene lighting at night.
Transporting rescuers and equipment from heli-spot to another.
Transporting victims rescued by ground teams.
Deployment of a rope across a river from two points on shore.
Rappels.
Picking up a victim floating in the water. (This highly hazardous rescue should be avoided if safer options exist).
In all helicopter operations, safety and effectiveness will be enhanced if an experienced and trained swift water rescue
technician is riding on the helicopter and has good communication with both the pilot and the Incident Commander. The ability to accurately interpret river hydrology features and to communicate the significance of these makes this spotter a valuable safety aspect.
1.15.J Medical Considerations
Dehydration, hypothermia, near-drowning syndrome, drowning, and all manner of trauma are common water related injuries. In addition, contaminated water may contribute to infections. Be prepared, watch for symptoms, and provide care as needed.
If a victim or rescuer becomes disoriented or is unable to drink fluids, this patient must be transported to a medical facility for evaluation. Minor mental impairment may be a symptom of an injury, which will progressively worsen and may become fatal. (Near drowning “parking lot syndrome).
Even in cool weather, all personnel must keep fluid intake high to counter the effects of heat, cold and dehydration.
1.15.K Pre-plans
River and Flood Channels should be pre-planned by local units to determine:
Travel routes and all access points to both sides (note: locked gates and dirt sections where mud will impede progress).
Hazards such as low-head dams, strainers, etc.
Underground sections.
River crossing points.
Helispots and aerial hazards (power lines, etc.)
Current speed and vector.
Eddies and pools (good rescue points).
Downstream companies and staging locations.
Other noteworthy features.
1.15.L Incident Documentation
A River Rescue Incident Report Form must be completed on each victim rescued, whether or not they are transported to a facility.
1.15.L cont...........
A brief narrative of the type of rescue performed and the names of the rescuers should be included on the report form.
In the event of a fatality, the coroner may wish to inspect the technical rope rescue system that was used in the rescue effort. The Incident Command should coordinate this with the coroner, or at lest document the type and location of the system used and the results.
1.15.M Alert Status
A rescue alert will exist when the weather conditions are severe enough and water levels are swift or high enough or have the potential of being swift or high enough so that a potential swift water rescue may occur.
When the fire department enters into a Rescue Alert, a Chief Officer will advise the Emergency Communications Center (ECC), whereas; the dispatcher on duty will immediately notify one of the SWR Team Leaders. Officer’s of the Monroe R.F.P.D. will be notified by pager as to the increase in water emergencies and use this information when responding to incident.
1.15.N Vehicles
1715 will be the primary rescue response vehicle. 1714, 1725 & 1735 will be the backup rescue response vehicle, other units may be called on to assist as the officer in charge see fit
SECTION 2
MAINTENANCE & EQUIPMENT
2.1 Hose Maintenance
2.1.A All hose shall be washed, inspected and bedded as soon as possible after any emergency call or drill in which the hose was used. It is recommended that this be done the same day or night right after the hose was used. There are two reasons for this;
1. The hose washes much easier before the dirt, grit, and mud has time to dry on the hose.
2. There is adequate personnel to do the job right after the call or drill. It takes about one third the time if three or four people come back to do it later, plus you don't have to worry about it once it is done.
2.1.B If more than 3 sections need to be washed/cleaned or contamination is see to be extensive the hose washer will be used. This can be reviewed on a case by case basis by the Fire Chief, but using the hose washer is the norm for washing hose.
2.1.C All pre-connected hose will be loaded into their proper hosebeds immediately after an emergency call or drill.
1. All 1-1/2- and 1-3/4-inch pre-connects will be 150 feet long unless
otherwise specified by the chief.
2. All 2-1/2- and 3-inch supply hosebeds will be reloaded to the state that the unit was before the call. For the exact number and type of hose can be found in the hose testing file in the Fire Chief’s office.
EXCEPTION: The day crew may be excused from washing hose when they need to get back to their jobs. At least two pumpers should be ready will all pre-connects replaced and at least 500 feet of hose in the supply hosebeds before the day crew is released. Release of the day crew shall be decided upon by the officer or person in charge.
2.1.D All hose couplings or joints are to be only hand tight. Any time that hose is being coupled, the hose will be checked to ensure that all necessary gaskets are in place.
2.1.E All fire hose will be visually inspected for damage before storage or loading on any apparatus. Any fire hose that is found to have a hole in it or is badly damaged, whether on an emergency call or at a drill, notify the unit officer and they are to mark the hose at the damaged spot. Do not cut a charged line if it is leaking or damage. Mark the spot in some way and report the problem to the engineer or officer in charge. The hose will may be cut later. All hose that is cut is to be brought back to the station for salvage. If in doubt about cutting a
section of hose, report the problem to the Fire Chief or the officer in charge.
2.1 cont...............
2.1.F Hose testing - All hose will be taken out of the hosebeds and tested (but for wildland hose which is tested and or replaced by ODF) at 300 PSI (pounds per square inch) for 5 minutes at least once every year.
1. Newer hose (Yellow, Red or Green) can be reloaded in the hose beds after testing as long as it is not dirty. Every hose joint needs to be taken apart and the hose completely drained before loaded.
2. Hose beds will be filled to capacity with reserve hose if any hose was left out to be washed.
3. During the time the hose is tested, the results will be recorded for each section using Monroe RFPD’s hose testing documentation sheet.
2.1.G All hose tested will be recorded in Monroe RFPD’s hose testing documentation sheet and also recorded electrically by the Fire Chief.
2.2 Apparatus Maintenance
2.2.A The Maintenance Officer will be responsible for seeing that apparatus checks are made each Wednesday before meetings or drills and be available to the Fire Chief and/or the Officer in charge in the case of unit repairs. The maintenance check list sheet and are located in the engine bay of each station. These check list sheets are to be followed when doing the maintenance checks. If there is no Maintenance Officer, the highest ranking officer shall have the responsibility for apparatus maintenance.
2.2.B When any piece of apparatus is returned to quarters, from an emergency call or drill, the crew on the fire engine (or medic unit) will be checked as to operational readiness, hosed off, (washed if needed), and dried off. It is the responsibility of the engineer (driver) to see that this is done, but everyone is accountable for a team effort in completing this task.
EXCEPTION: The day crew may be excused from washing apparatus when they need to get back to their jobs. Release of the day crew shall be decided upon by the person in charge. The person in charge will report to the Fire Chief if any apparatus needs cleaning or any other maintenance attention such as hose or mechanical problems (See 1.5.C and 1.5.D).
2.2.C Periodically crews will be assigned to wash and wax a piece of apparatus in the station.
2.2 cont..............
2.2.D When the apparatus is back in quarters, from an emergency call or drill, it is the engineers (drivers) responsibility to see that the apparatus is made ready for the next call. This includes fuel level, booster tank water level, hose (pre-connects and supply beds), and washing the apparatus. All trucks are to be parked in the station in neutral (automatic transmissions), manual transmissions will be placed into 1st or 2ed gear, with the park brakes in the on position. This rule applies to all fire department vehicles (see 1.5.C for day crew exception).
2.2.E Any equipment on or part of any piece of apparatus that is found to be defective or not working properly shall be tagged out and/or reported to the maintenance officer and the Fire Chief as soon as possible and a maintenance needed sheet located in the radio room at Station 1. If the equipment or apparatus is located at station 2 or 3, the Firefighter or Officer at that station will call Station 1 and have the radio operator record any information on the maintenance needed sheet and placed into the radio log box.
2.3 SCBA Maintenance
2.3.A Cleaning and Inspection;
All SCBA equipment will be cleaned, bottles filled, replaced, inspected and dried after each use. SCBA face-pieces will be cleaned with a disinfectant and dried promptly after each use.
2.3.B Inspection after each use;
After each SCBA has been cleaned and dried, they will be inspected for cracks, malfunctions of any sort, broken of worn parts, all seals or “O-rings” inspected and/or replaced or any condition that may lead to substandard performance of the unit. This inspection shall be performed by a qualified person and the number of the SCBA recorded.
Any SCBA equipment that is not in perfect working order shall be tagged out of use and the Fire Chief or his assistant shall be notified of the problem as soon as possible and removed from the unit.
2.3.C Monthly Inspection;
All SCBA equipment will be inspected monthly by a designated qualified person. All monthly inspection results will be recorded (hard copies & electronic) and the records will be stored in the chief's office (or other location designated by the chief).
2.3 cont..............Monthly inspections will consist of;
Check for air leaks. Check that all gauges read properly and that cylinder has at least
4000 PSI. Check by-pass function. Check for overall function of the unit by breathing through the
mask. Check for proper harness operation. Check for overall cleanliness and for any visible defects. Any other checks as specified by the Fire Chief.
See an Officer for proper training if you are not a qualified person.
2.3.D Maintenance and Repair
All SCBA equipment maintenance will be performed as necessary by a qualified maintenance person. All maintenance procedures will be as designated or approved by the manufacturer of the SCBA, and all parts will be replaced with parts designated by the manufacturer of the SCBA. All SCBA maintenance records will be kept up to date and will be stored in the chief's office (or other location designated by the chief).
2.3.E Testing;
1) All SCBA’s will be tested weekly for proper operation of low air alarm. This will be recorded on the weekly maintenance records.
2) All SCBA regulators will be flow tested according to the manufactures specifications and a record of the flow test for each unit shall be recorded.
3) All SCBA air cylinders will be hydrostatically tested, composite cylinders once every three years, as per OSHA requirements. The test for each cylinder will be recorded by its serial number.
4) All SCBA test records will be kept up to date and will be stored in a location designated by the chief.
5) All staff that are required to wear a SCBA in accordance with a job outline or appointed to by the Fire Chief will have a fit test done at leased once a year and pass that test.
2.4 Department Equipment
2.4.A Personal equipment;Every member is responsible for any and all equipment issued to them by the fire department. This includes, but is not limited to pagers, chargers, portable hand-held radios, car plates, protective clothing (turnouts), gear bags, badges, and any other equipment that is the property of the Monroe Rural Fire Protection District or the Fire Department Volunteers.
2.4.B Upon termination of membership for any reason, resignation, suspension, leave of absence, or dismissal, all equipment listed in 2.4.A will be returned to the fire department at he discretion of the Fire Chief and/or the Board of Directors.
2.4.C Every member will be responsible for any loss, damage, or destruction of department equipment that results from negligence, and the member that is negligent will reimburse the department or the rural board for the loss, damage or destruction. The Fire Chief and/or Board of Directors will decide whether or not there was negligence on the part of the member.
2.4.D No fire fighting equipment, emergency equipment, or any fire apparatus will be taken out of the fire hall for personal use by any member or non-member. Other department equipment may be use by firefighters only after the use of that equipment is OK’d with the Fire Chief and completing the equipment check out sheet. If these steps are not completed before removing equipment the person may be disciplined up to and including termination.
2.4.E Training Equipment;All training manuals, books, flip charts, tapes, VCR tapes, films, etc., will be signed out by the member borrowing the equipment on the roster provided by the Fire Chief before removing it from the fire hall. These materials may be loaned to other departments as long as they are signed out on the roster.
All other equipment such as projectors, VCR player/recorder, VCR cameras, training manikins, etc., will also be signed out by the member borrowing the equipment. This equipment will not be
checked out to non-members of the department or other departments unless approved by the Fire Chief.
All of the training equipment is for training and educating the members of this department. The equipment is not to be used for personal use unless approved by the Fire Chief.
2.5 Written Hazard Communication Program2.5.A. General Information;
Monroe RFPD is committed to the prevention of incidents or happenings which result in injury and/or illness; and to comply with all applicable federal and state health and safety rules. Therefore we require that the fire district spare no effort in providing a safe and healthful work environment for all firefighters; that all level of supervision are accountable for the health and safety of those firefighters under their direction; and through this written hazard communication program share assigned responsibility to ensure performance under that responsibility.
In order to comply with Oregon Occupational Health and Safety Code Hazard Communication, 1910.1200, the following written Hazard Communication Program has been established for the Monroe R.F.P.D.
All Monroe stations are included in this program. The written program will be available in the Chief's office for review by any interested firefighter.
Monroe R.F.P.D. will meet the requirements of this rule as follows:
2.5.B. Container LabelingThe Fire Chief or other Officers will verify that all containers received for use will:
1) Be clearly labeled as to the contents.
2) Note the appropriate hazard warning.
3) List the manufacturer's name and address.
It is policy of this fire district that no container will be released for use until the above data is verified.
The Fire Chief and Officers will ensure that all secondary containers are labeled with either an extra copy of the original
manufacturer's label or with the any information that relates that material back to the original MSDS.
2.5.C. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS’s)Copies of MSDS’s for all hazardous chemicals to which firefighters of this fire district may be exposed will be kept at station #1 engine bay in the information center.
2.5.C cont..............
If MSDS’s are not available or new chemicals in use do not have an MSDS, immediately contact the Fire Chief or another Officer.
2.5.D. Firefighter Information and TrainingPrior to starting work, each new firefighter of the Monroe RFPD will attend a health and safety orientation and will receive information and training on the following:
1) An overview of the requirements contained in 1910.1200 and 1926.59 - Hazard Communication Rules.
2) Chemicals present in their workplace operations.
3) Location and availability of our written hazard program.
4) Physical and health effects of the hazardous chemicals.
5) Methods and observation techniques used to determine the presence or release of hazardous chemicals in the work area.
6) How to reduce or prevent exposure to these hazardous chemicals through use of control/work practices and personal protective equipment.
7) Steps the fire district has taken to reduce or prevent exposure to these chemicals.
8) Safety emergency procedures to follow if the firefighter is exposed to these chemicals.
9) How to read labels and review MSDS’s to obtain appropriate hazard information.
* after attending the training class, each firefighter will sign a form to verify that they attended the training, received our written materials, and understood this fire district's policies on hazardous communication. *(An optional item OR-OSHA recommends for the fire district's use in tracking firefighter training.)
Prior to a new hazardous chemical being introduced into any section of this fire district, the material will have its MSDS placed into the department’s information center. Monroe RFPD is responsible for ensuring that MSDS’s on any new chemicals are available.
2.5.E. Hazardous Chemicals ListThe following is a list of all known hazardous chemicals used by the Monroe RFPD firefighters. More information on each chemical noted is available by reviewing MSDS’s located at Station #1.
Hazardous Chemicals Work Processes
(NOTE: The hazard communication rules only require a list of all hazardous chemicals. However, it's felt that identifying the location and possibly the process will help you in carrying out the full program.)
2.5.F. Hazardous Non-routine TasksPeriodically, firefighters must perform hazardous non-routine tasks. Before starting work on such projects, each affected firefighter will be given information by their district supervisor about hazardous chemicals to which they may be exposed during such activity.
This information will include:
1) Specific chemical hazards.
2) Protective/safety measures firefighters can take.
3) Measures the company has taken to reduce the hazards, including ventilation, respirators, presence of another firefighter, and emergency procedures.
Examples of non-routine tasks performed by firefighters of this fire district:
TASKHAZARDOUS CHEMICAL RELEASE
2.5.G. Informing Contractors
It is the responsibility of the Monroe RFPD to provide contractors (employees) the following information:
1) Hazardous chemicals to which they may be exposed while on the job site, and the procedure for obtaining MSDS’s.
2) Precautions employees may take to lessen the possibility of exposure, by using appropriate protective measures, and an explanation of the labeling system used.
Also, it is the responsibility of the Monroe RFPD to identify and obtain MSDS’s for the chemicals the contractor is bringing into the workplace.
2.6 Lockout/Tagout Program
2.6.A Introduction:
The Monroe Rural Fire Protection District has established this lockout/tagout procedure to provide the maximum protection to employees whenever they must isolate machines or equipment from energy sources, and to prevent unexpected energization, start-up or release of stored energy that could cause them injury.
This procedure shall be used by all employees assigned to service or maintain equipment in order to ensure that the machines or equipment are isolated from all potentially hazardous energy and locked/tagged out before they perform any of the service or maintenance activities.
The fire chief/officers shall have primary responsibility for implementing and monitoring the Lockout/Tagout Program and will assign a designate to ensure that all employees are properly trained in Lockout/Tagout procedures.
2.6.B Authorized Employee:
"Authorized employee" shall be defined as any Fire District employee who has received the proper level of training.
Authorized employees responsible for implementing the lockout/tagout shall receive special training on how to effectively utilize the lockout/tagout procedure.
2.6.C Identification:
The Monroe Rural Fire Protection District has identified the items in Attachment "A" to be included in the Lockout/Tagout Program.
2.6.D Employee Training:
Training for the lockout/tagout procedure shall be made available to all employees. Upon completion of training, each employee will sign a form to verify that they attended the training and understand the procedures for lockout/tagout. Locks/tags will be made available to authorized employees.
It is important that all employees understand the procedures. If there is a question as to proper lockout/tagout procedure or if you have not been properly trained, contact an officer of the fire chief.
2.6 cont...............2.6.E Periodic Inspection:
The Monroe Rural Fire Protection District will designate a department safety representative as the person or persons who will conduct periodic inspections to ensure that the provisions of the District's Lockout/Tagout Program are being followed. These periodic inspections or visual audits will be unannounced and carried out during the lockout/tagout process.
2.6.F Contractors
When outside contractors are hired to work on machines and equipment in a District facility, their activities may create hazards which normally are not present to regular employees. A copy of the lockout/tagout procedures will be given to that contractor and a mutually agreed upon procedure established concerning the lockout/tagout devices that will be used to protect District employees and the contractor's workers.
2.6.G Lockout/Tagout System Procedure
The lockout/tagout procedure shall be conducted as follows:
1. The authorized employee shall notify effected employees that the lockout/tagout system is going to be utilized.
2. If a particular piece of equipment if operating, it must be shut down by normal stopping procedure (by depressing the stop button or opening the toggle switch).
3. The authorized employee must operate the switch, valve, or other energy isolating device to make sure the equipment is isolated from its energy source. Stored energy, such as the energy found in springs, rotating fly wheels, hydraulic systems, or compressed air or gas lines must be dissipated or restrained by repositioning, blocking, or bleeding down.
4. The authorized employee shall lock/tag out the energy isolating device of the equipment or machines with their individually assigned lock/tag.
2.6 cont..................
5. After ensuring that no personnel are exposed, the authorized employee shall complete a second check to make sure that all of the energy sources have been disconnected. The authorized employee should then, once again, operate the push button or other operating controls to make certain the equipment will not operate. CAUTION: Return operating controls to neutral or off position after test. The lock/tag must be attached on or as close as possible to the energy-isolating device. The lock/tag must clearly indicate that the operation or start-up of the energy-isolating device from the safe or off position is prohibited.
2.6.H. Equipment Testing under Lockout/Tagout
At times, some equipment must be tested during maintenance or repair. The following procedure shall be followed under those conditions:
1. Clear the machine or equipment of all tools and materials that are non-essential items.
2. Make sure that all of the employees are clear of the machine or equipment and notify them that the machine will be energized.
3. The authorized employee shall remove the lock/tag.
4. Energize and proceed with the testing or positioning.
5. De-energize all systems and complete the shut down procedures before continuing all maintenance or service.
2.6.I Removal of Lockout/Tagout Devices
When the authorized employee has determined that maintenance or repair of equipment is complete, the lock/tag can be removed. The following procedure shall be followed during the removal process:
1. The authorized employee shall inspect the work area to make sure that all tools have been removed from the machine. Notify all affected employees that the equipment is to be restarted.
The authorized employee who initiated the lockout/tagout procedure shall be responsible for removing the lock/tag device. The fire chief or designate shall have the authority, in the authorized employee's absence, to remove the lock/tag device.
2.6.J Locks/Tags
All locks/tags used in the Lockout/Tagout Program will be of uniform color. When applied, all locks/tags must contain the date of application, name of the authorized worker, equipment being de-energized, name of the supervisor in charge, and a generic warning such as "DO NOT OPERATE".
Each authorized employee has access to locks/tags. It is the responsibility of each and every authorized employee to ensure that the locks/tags are not misused.
The lockout/tagout station is located in the main in coming power room.
ATTACHMENT "A"
1. Rolling stock shall have batteries disconnected when repairs, other than routine maintenance, are being made.
2. Rolling equipment operated with a key shall have the key removed and placed the radio room or the Chief’s office. If the key cannot be removed, a tag stating OUT OF SERVICE must be posted on the key and steering wheel.
3. After isolating the circuit to be serviced, a lock shall be placed on the hasp of the main circuit breaker panel.
4. Equipment that has a cord with a plug on the end which can be removed from the receptacle shall not require a lockout device, as long as the operator is in control of the cord.
2.7 Breathing Air Compressor & Air Quality Maintenance
2.7.A Purpose
To provide for the continued safety of emergency responders who will be exposed to IDLH atmospheres, these procedures will be followed.
2.7.B Compressors used to supply breathing airCompressors used to supply breathing air to SCBA equipment are constructed and situated so as to: prevent entry of contaminated air into the air-supply system; minimize moisture content so that the dew point at I atmosphere is IO degrees Fahrenheit below the ambient temperature;have suitable in-line air purifying sorbent beds and filters to further ensure breathing air quality. Sorbent beds and filters shall be maintained and replaced or refurbished periodically following the manufacturer's instructions; and, have a tag containing the most recent change date and the signature of the person authorized by the employer to perform the change. The tag shall be maintained at the compressor.
2.7.C AlarmsMonroe Fire Department has an oil-lubricated compressor that uses both high-temperature and carbon monoxide alarms. The breathing air compressor is a MAKO BAC 064.
2.7.D Air couplingsThe breathing air couplings are incompatible with outlets for non-respirable worksite air or other gas systems. No asphyxiating substance shall be introduced into breathing airlines.
2.7.E Air cylindersAll Monroe Rural Fire Protection District breathing air cylinders shall meet and be marked in accordance with NIOSH respirator certification standard.
2.7.F Monthly inspectionsI. Oil level - should be between high and low marks, use only MAKO
synthetic oil.2. Pressure check for normal readings. 3. Check restriction indicator for normal reading. If red indicator is
showing, replace the filter and notify the officer in charge.4. Check that the condensates drain.5. Open manual drain to check for moisture drainage. If moisture
drains, notify department service person or officer.6. Keep clean, free from dust, oil, or any contaminants that would
reduce the cooling efficiency.7. Inspect fill hoses, check for wear, cuts, etc.
2.7 cont..................
2.7.G Annual serviceThe breathing air compressor has a major preventive maintenance servicing annually in accordance with CGA D, NFPA 1500 (6-7.1, 97)
2.7.H (CO) monitor annual serviceA qualified service technician checks the Carbon Monoxide (CO) monitor annually. The Carbon Monoxide calibration is checked and recalibrated every 90 days.
2.7.I Breathing air qualityBreathing gases must be of high purity. Compressed breathing air shall meet at least the requirements for Grade D breathing air described in ANSI/Compressed Gas Association Commodity Specification for Air. Compressed oxygen is not to be used in atmosphere-supplying respirators that have previously used compressed air. At least quarterly, samples of compressed air will be tested by a qualified agency to ensure compliance with the standards set forth in CGA D, NFPA 1500 (6-7.1, 97). A copy of the results of the testing is to be posted on the compressor.
SECTION 3
ADMINISTRATIVE & DEPARTMENTALPOLICIES
3.1 New Members
3.1.A Membership applications;Anyone desiring to join the Monroe Rural Fire Department will fill out an application provided by the department. All applicants will meet the following criteria;
1) Be at least 18 years of age, and in good physical condition.
2) Be a resident of the Rural Fire Protection District. Exceptions may be granted by the Fire Chief or Board of Directors for persons who work in town or close by and are available during the day time.
3) Be, to the best of their knowledge, physically and mentally qualified to perform strenuous tasks under adverse conditions. All members should be prepared to pass an agility test.
4) Be free from addiction to controlled substances or alcoholic beverages.
5) Be in possession of, or have the ability to secure, a valid Oregon Driver's License. Validity of licenses will be checked annually for all members.
6) Any member volunteer, paid staff or elected official of the Monroe Rural Fire Protection District shall not have a felony record. Any volunteer, paid staff or elected official that has a felony record shall be excluded or removed from being a volunteer, paid staff or elected official of the Monroe Rural Fire Protection District.
3.1.B All new members will read the department by-laws, house rules, and the department Operating guidelines (SOG) and sign a roster stating that they have done so. All house rules, by-laws, and SOG’s will be followed by all members new and old. All members will sign a roster stating that they have received a copy of the department SOG’s.
3.1.C All new applicants will be interviewed by the Fire Chief and/or the Executive Committee. Any person accepted will be on probation for the first six months after being voted in by the volunteer membership.
3.1.D All new members with no verifiable past experience, will successfully attend a DPSST certified academy, hazardous materials operation & awareness classes, basic first aid & health care CPR classes and be voted on by the volunteer membership. Completion of these classes is a requirement to become or remain a member of this organization.
3.2 Drill Rules
3.2.A The regular meetings and drills of the department shall be held on Wednesday of each week at station 17 at 19:00, unless otherwise directed by the Fire Chief or his appointee. Any member absent from four consecutive drills (excluding business meetings) without permission of the Fire Chief may face up to and including verbal, written questioning or removal from the membership roll based on drill attendance documentation. All active members will attend a sufficient number and required content of drills within one year to maintain all DPSST certifications.
3.2.B All members will sign/initial the drill and meeting attendance sheet for each meeting or drill attended. Do not sign the attendance sheet if you came in after the drill or meeting was over.
3.2.C No alcoholic beverages will be allowed on fire hall property at any time.
3.3 Membership Committee
3.3.A The application review and interviewing committee shall be appointed by the Fire Chief. The committee will consist of three officers, one being the Fire Chief, and two officers, volunteer president and one active volunteer. The fire chief shall be the chairman of the Committee.
3.3.B No less than three members shall be present before any action is taken on any new applicant. Minutes of each meeting of this Committee will be recorded by the volunteer sectary and kept on file.
3.3.C All new applicants will be interviewed by the application review and interviewing committee. A background check should be made prior to the interview. Confidentiality of applicants shall be maintained within this committee. All new applicants will be notified whether they have been accepted or rejected. Any person rejected shall be notified in writing, and a copy of this notification shall be kept on file.
3.3.D Guidelines for interviewing new applicants will be adopted by the application review and interviewing committee and followed when interviewing new applicants. All members will adhere to all ORS rules and or guidelines and written copy of these guidelines shall be kept on file.
3.4 Executive Committee
3.4.A The Executive Committee will be responsible for interviewing prospective members. The Executive Committee can be convened to review and give input to other issues at the discretion of the Fire Chief and the Association President
The Executive Committee shall consist of;1) The Fire Chief2) The Assistant Fire Chief3) A Fire Captain4) A Fire Lieutenant5) The Volunteer Fire Fighter's Association President
3.4.B All members of the Executive Committee shall read and comply with the Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Code (Oregon Administrative Rules, Chapter 437) Division 151 Firefighters, concerning the functioning and everyday operations of the Monroe RFPD.
3.5 Reimbursements for Classes and Expenditures
3.5.A EMT Intermediate, Basic & First ResponderThe Monroe RFPD will reimburse tuition, fees, and necessary books for the EMT class stated above. Reimbursements will be paid after the student becomes certified. All new members will have served one year on the department before enrolling in an EMT class. Exceptions will be approved by the Board of Directors.
3.5.B There may be times when it is necessary to pay students out of the Volunteers Fire Fighters' Association funds for fees, tuition, books, and travel expenses if the funds are available. The volunteer association will vote on each event where volunteer funds are spent. The RFPD will reimburse the Fire Fighters' Association when this is done. Receipts for fees, tuition, books, and record of miles traveled will be required for all reimbursements.
3.5.C If for any reason a student, be it an EMT or another class where money is paid to attend, drops out of the class, moves out of the district, or fails to become certified at the end of the class term, the student may be liable for refunding part or all of any moneys issued to them for fees, tuition, books, travel expenses or any other expenses. Any money refunded will go back to whoever paid the money, the RFPD or the Volunteers Fire Fighters' Association. The Board of Directors will decide if any money is to be refunded.
3.5.D Any member of the Fire Department attending a certified training class concerning fire fighting or emergency medical services may be reimbursed for tuition and necessary books for the class. When combined with travel out of the local area, the member shall be reimbursed for motel expenses at the Chief's discretion.
Prior approval by the Fire Chief or his appointee should be arranged before any reimbursements are made.
3.5.E Annual dues to the Fire Fighters' and Chief's Association may be legitimate expenditures of the Fire Fighters' Association or the Rural Fire Protection District.
3.5.F Hepatitis B immunization and any other immunizations required by the Rural Fire District will be available and paid for by the District to all members of the District in good standing. These immunizations will be made available to members after they have successfully completed the six month probationary period. Any member of the Districtrefusing any immunization required by the District will sign a waiver releasing the District from any liability, should they become infected with the Hepatitis B virus or any other disease or virus while on duty with the District. Refusal of any of the immunizations may be grounds for dismissal from the District.
3.6 Refreshments Policy
3.6.A No alcohol is allowed at any time. Free pop is allowed for each emergency call answered at the time the call was answered and drill nights. No pop or other refreshments may be taken form the fire department property with out approval from the Fire Chief or his appointee.
3.6.B All pop is normally to be consumed in the fire stations. Pop may be taken out on calls or drills as necessary. All pop is here for the benefit and refreshment of all members of the fire department, and shall not be abused and is not intended for the community with out approval from the Fire Chief or the Volunteer Association President or there appointee.
3.6.C Any member who is intoxicated in any way or has been drinking shall not respond to any emergency calls, drills or be on department property. Any member, officer or fire fighter, recognizing anyone intoxicated at the fire station or at a scene of an emergency is to report such an incident to the Chief or officer in charge (same as 1.1.C).
3.7 House Rules
3.7.A No minors permitted in the building except immediate members of family (i.e. wives, children, etc.). Guests are limited to two persons over 21 years old.
3.7.B No guests allowed on drill nights, except by invitation of the Fire Chief
3.7.C No one is permitted to drink alcoholic beverages of any kind in or on fire district property at any time whatsoever.
3.7.D No smoking in the fire stations at any time.
3.7.E No furnishings, such as tables, chairs, dishes, appliances, etc., are to be removed from the buildings without permission of the Fire Chief and signing the equipment check out sheet located in the engine bay at station #1.
3.7.F No long distance telephone calls to be made on house phone. Long distance Telephone calls concerning emergency calls may be made with the approval of the Fire Chief or the officer in charge.
3.7.G Keep building clean at all times. Each member is responsible for cleaning up after each use of the fire station.
3.7.H No parties, public meetings, etc. are permitted without permission from the Fire Chief.
3.7.I This building is not a public recreation center. It is for the use of the fire department members and a limited number of guests.
3.7.J Any member studying for a class or drill will have priority over recreational activities in the fire station.
3.7.K Any member violating the above rules is subject to discharge or suspension.
3.8 Harassment
3.8.A PurposeFor the members of the Monroe Volunteer Fire Department to enjoy a work environment free of harassment.
Harassment is a form of misconduct which weakens the integrity of the members' relationship and is not keeping with the department's philosophy of trust and mutual respect.
HARRASSMENT3.8.B The Monroe Rural Fire Protection District believes that each member
has the right to a work environment that is free from harassment due to sex, age, color, creed, religion, national origin, handicap, or marital status.
3.8.C Harassment is defined as conduct which substantially interferes with an employee’s or member’s performance of job duties or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive working environment, or adversely affects an employee’s employment opportunities or member’s active duty opportunities.
3.8.D Any employee or member who has a complaint of harassment at work by anyone, including supervisors, co-workers, or visitors, is urged to bring the matter to the attention of the Fire Chief so that we may investigate and deal with the problem. Employees and members may bring their complaint to their supervisor, officer or the Fire Chief. If the complaint involves someone in the employee’s direct chain of command, or if the member is uncomfortable discussing the matter with their direct supervisor, the employee is urged to go to one of the other management people.
3.8.E The Monroe Rural Fire Protection District shall ensure that an environment free of harassment exists throughout all areas of the District. Monroe Rural Fire Protection District will not tolerate any form of harassment. Substantiated incidents of harassment will result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination
3.8.F Harassment of employees or members in connection with their work by non-employees or non-members may also be a violation of this policy. Any such harassment should be reported, and appropriate action if possible will be taken.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT3.8.G The Monroe Rural Fire Protection District strongly disapproves of and
does not tolerate sexual harassment of any kind. All employees and members must avoid offensive or inappropriate sexual behavior at work and are responsible for assuring that the workplace is free from sexual harassment at all times.
3.8 cont….3.8.H The Monroe Rural Fire Protection District’s policy specifically prohibits:
unwelcome sexual advances; requests for sexual acts or favors, with or without accompanying promises, threats, or reciprocal favors or actions; any other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature made to an employee or member when submission to such a conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a condition of an individual’s employment or appointment. It is also a violation of this policy when; submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is actually used as the basis for employment decisions; such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual’s work performance; or such conduct has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive working environment.
3.8.I Examples of prohibited conduct, but are not limited to: lewd or sexually suggestive comments; off-color language or jokes of a sexual nature; slurs and other verbal, graphic or physical conduct relating to an individual’s gender; or any display of sexually explicit pictures, greeting cards, articles, books, magazines, photos or cartoons.
3.8.J Any employee or member who has a complaint of sexual harassment at work by anyone, including supervisors, co-workers, or visitors, is urged to bring the matter to the attention of District’s management immediately, so that we may investigate and deal with the problem. Employees and members may bring their complaint to their supervisor, officer or the Fire Chief. If the complaint involves someone in the member’s direct chain of command, or if the member is uncomfortable discussing the matter with their direct supervisor, the member is urged to go to one of the other management people listed in this statement.
3.8.K The District will investigate all complaints and will endeavor to handle these matters expeditiously in a professional manner so as to protect the offended individual.
3.8.L Substantiated incidents of sexual harassment will result in disciplinary action, up to and including discharge.
3.9 Confidentiality of Hazardous Materials Information
3.9.A Any information received by the Monroe RFPD from the Oregon State Fire Marshal's office regarding location, types, names of, and amounts of hazardous materials used and/or stored in the jurisdiction of the Monroe RFPD is considered highly confidential and this information shall not be released in any way, shape, or form to any non-member of the department and no member shall remove or make any reproduction and remove this information from the fire station. This
also includes, but is not limited to, any information received through use of the HAZCOM dial up system.
3.9 cont….This is bound by Oregon Revised Statute (ORS 453.332). This portion of the SOG’s is a summary of the agreement with the State Fire Marshal's office and is covered in detail by agreement, OSFM:1114H 9/88.
3.10 Use of CPR Microshields/Exposure Limitations
3.10.A If you've been provided a CPR Microshield, it is to be used by CPR trained individuals ONLY. For single use ONLY. Do NOT reuse. Do not use on infant victims. Dispose of properly after use. This microshield provides a physical barrier against disease transmission, but does not guarantee absolute protection from transmission.
3.11 Resident Volunteer Rules
3.11.A Purpose and Scope: The purpose and scope of the Resident Volunteer program is to provide a learning environment for prospective Medic/Firefighters that enables the participant to experience and learn from "hands on" practical application of medical and fire fighting skills. The Monroe Fire District will provide lodging and training for the Resident Volunteer(s). In exchange, the Resident Volunteer(s) shall be responsible for the daily cleaning of the Fire Department, Fire Apparatus, and maintenance of the Fire Department grounds, upkeep of the living quarters and to work as directed as assigned by the Fire Chief. Monthly inspections of the assigned tasks will be done by the Fire Chief or their appointee. It is the intent of this program that both the Resident Volunteer(s) and the Fire District will mutually benefit from this arrangement with the prospective Medic/Firefighter gaining valuable experience and the Fire District having an influence in the next generation of Life, Environment, and Property Defense personnel.
3.11.B Resident Volunteer(s) Responsibilities:
1. Maintaining the Fire Department in a clean and orderly condition at all times. Each Resident Volunteer must fill out a Resident Volunteer cleaning duty sheet every week.
2. Maintaining the Fire Apparatus in a clean condition at all times.
3. Maintaining the Fire Department grounds.
4. Maintaining their room in a neat and orderly condition.
5. Have any guests leave the premises by 22:00.
3.11 cont….
6. Park personal vehicles on the south side of the Fire Station.
7. Never bring or have any alcoholic beverages or controlled substances onto Fire Department property.
8. Respond to all alarms when in the Fire District unless prohibited or some other arrangement has been made with the Fire Chief.
9. To be available for alarms during times set by the Fire Chief.
10. Participate in all training offered by the Fire District.
3.12 Document Research and Copying Fees
3.12.A Purpose and Scope:The purpose and scope of the document research and copying fees are to establish a fee rate for requests of research and the copying of documents.
3.12.B Procedure:Not with standing Oregon Administrative Rules and Oregon Revised Statutes, the Monroe Rural Fire Protection District will charge a fee of $30.00 (thirty dollars) per hour, per person for the research and $.25 (twenty-five cents) per copy for any documents requested.
3.12 ADA Policy
3.12.A Purpose and Scope:To comply fully with the spirit and intent of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) and applicable state laws. This policy applies to all Monroe RFPD employees, volunteers and job applicants.
3.12.B PolicyIn compliance with the ADA, it is Monroe RFPD 's policy to prohibit discrimination against a qualified individual with a disability. This includes, but is not limited to, discrimination with respect to application, hiring, promotion, discharge, compensation, benefits, training and all other aspects of employment. “Disability” means a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of an individual. An individual, who has such impairment, has a record of such impairment, or who is regarded as
having such impairment is a “disabled individual.” A qualified person with a disability means an individual with a disability who, with or without reasonable accommodation, can perform the essential functions of the employment position that the individual holds or seeks.
3.12cont..................
3.12.C Reasonable accommodationMonroe RFPD seeks to reasonably accommodate qualified individuals with disabilities. Such reasonable accommodation may take the form of making existing facilities readily accessible to or usable by individuals with a disability, restructuring jobs, modifying schedules, acquiring or modifying equipment, adjusting training materials, adjusting employment policies, and the like. Generally, such reasonable accommodation will be made when needed to enable an otherwise qualified individual with a disability to perform the essential function of his or her job unless it creates undue hardship for the Company
3.12.D ImplementationThe Officers and Board of Directors in the Monroe RFPD shall be primarily responsible for the implementation of this policy. All management personnel should be familiar with and adhere to this policy.
3.12.E SafetyAll employees are expected to be able to comply with safety rules at all times. Any applicant for a position, who poses a direct threat to the health or safety of themselves or others, when that threat may not be eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level by reasonable accommodation, will not be employed in that position. Similarly, current employees who become disabled and thereby pose a direct threat to themselves or to fellow employees, which threat may not be eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level by reasonable accommodation, will be removed from their position.
3.12.F ReportingAn applicant who believes that there has been a violation of this policy, or any applicable law relating to accommodating the disabled, should immediately contact his or her Officer and/or Fire Chief. If the Officer and/or Fire Chief are unable to resolve the issue, the individual should contact the Board of Directors. All complaints will be investigated promptly. Information obtained in the course of an investigation will be held in confidence, and will only be disclosed to those individuals with a need to know.
3.12.G ConfidentialityAll information obtained concerning the medical condition or history of an applicant or employee should be maintained in separate
medical files, and treated as confidential information that should only be disclosed as necessary.
3.13 Life / Safety and Loss Prevention Policy
3.13.A Purpose and Scope:It is the policy of the Monroe RFPD to promote safety in all phases of District operations. To that end, the Monroe RFPD shall strive to provide safe equipment necessary personal protection, and adequate training. It is the responsibility of every employee and officer to cooperate in promoting safety and integrating safety procedures into all operations.
3.13.B PolicyThe Fire Chief shall be responsible for the day-to-day administration of the District's safety and loss prevention program, including;
1. Implementation of necessary loss prevention and risk control policies and programs, including the following:
a. Participation by and accountability for all officers and employees in loss prevention activities.
b. Hazard assessments and control.c. Accident investigations.d. Personal protective and safety equipment programs.e. Training programs.f. Preparations evaluations.g. Claims management and early return to work efforts.
2. Legal compliance with all federal, state and local safety and health regulations.
3. Providing personnel with needed resources to insure compliance with the District's loss prevention and control policies.
4. Review of District loss data and accident investigation findings; evaluation of loss prevention activities, comparing them with current needs, assignment of responsibility for corrective action measures and maintenance of necessary records of District activities.
5. Consulting with the District's insurance agents and carriers in developing loss control policies and procedures.
SECTION 4
THE OFFICERS
4.1 The Fire Chief
4.1.A The Fire Chief shall be the head of the operational portion of the Rural Fire District subject to the laws of the State of Oregon, other pertinent agencies, and the ordinances, rules, and regulations of this department herein adopted. The fire chief shall be appointed or hired by the Rural Fire District Board of Directors. The Fire Chief shall hold the certificates of NFPA Instructor 1, DPSST Fire Ground Leader, DPSST Safety Officer, EMT Intermediate or equivalent.
4.1.B The Fire Chief shall be held responsible for the general condition and efficient operation of the department, and the safety of any member performing any duties concerning the department.
4.1.C The Fire Chief shall maintain, or see to the maintenance of all documentation for the department and its members both active and in active. The Fire Chief shall also see that all documentation of each department activation is completely documented in all respects (EMS, Fire Marshal, Investigation, Radio Log, and Entry Permission).
4.1.D The Fire Chief shall make every attempt to attend all serious fires and emergencies and direct the officers and members of the department in the performance of their duties.
4.1.E The Fire Chief shall see that the citizens of the community are kept informed of fire hazards in the community and on the activities of the fire department.
4.1.F The chief shall see to it that each fire is investigated to determine its cause, and in the case of arson, shall secure and preserve all possible evidence for future use in the case. Any suspicious incidents will be reported to the proper authorities, such as the Oregon State Fire Marshal, the Oregon State Police, and/or local authorities.
4.1.G The Fire Chief will see to it that all hostile fires, haz-mat incidents, and fire related deaths are reported to the Oregon State Fire Marshal's Office on the appropriate forms provided by the Oregon State Fire Marshal's Office.
4.1.H The Fire Chief shall prescribe the fire alarm signals for the department, and the chief shall see to it that the system is tested at a regularly designated time to make sure that the system is working properly.
4.1.I Subordinate fire officers and EMS officers will be appointed by the fire chief unless the District Board of Directors opt to select or hire these officers.
4.1 cont…..
4.1.J The Fire Chief may appoint a maintenance officer or a supervisor in charge of maintaining the department buildings, apparatus, and any other departmental equipment as needed.
4.2 The Assistant Fire Chief, Captains, and Lieutenants
4.2.A In the absence of the Fire Chief, the Assistant Fire Chief shall command the fire department and be held responsible in all respects, with the full powers of the Fire Chief. The Assistant Chief reports directly to the Fire Chief. The Assistant Chief will be responsible for 4.1.A through 4.1.J. The Assistant Chief will report to the Fire Chief any and all actions taken in the absence of the Fire Chief or that effects the departments operations. The Assistant Chief shall hold the certificates of NFPA Instructor 1, DPSST Fire Ground Leader, and DPSST Safety Officer. Other requirements for Assistant Chief are 5 years fire fighting experience, 5 years on this department, 5 years as an officer
4.2.BIn the absence of the Fire Chief and the Assistant Fire Chief, Captain(s) present shall command the fire department and be held responsible in all respects, with the full powers of the Fire Chief. Captains will be responsible for 4.1.A through 4.1.J. Captains will report to the Fire Chief any and all actions taken in the absence of the Fire Chief or that effects the departments operations. Captains will be responsible for the upkeep and function of their home station, equipment and staff, Captains will receive direction and support from the Fire Chief to accomplish these tasks. Other requirements for Captain are 5 years fire fighting experience, 3 years on this department, 3 years as an officer.
4.2.BIn the absence of the Fire Chief, Assistant Fire Chief, Captain(s) Lieutenants present shall command the fire department and be held responsible in all respects, with the full powers of the Fire Chief. Lieutenants will be responsible for 4.1.A through 4.1.J. Lieutenants will report to the Fire Chief any and all actions taken in the absence of the Fire Chief or that effects the departments operations. Lieutenants will be responsible for supporting the Captains in the upkeep and function of their home station, equipment and staff. Other requirements for Lieutenants are 3 years fire fighting experience, 2 years on this department.
4.2 cont……. 4.2.C
The Monroe Rural Fire Protection District command structure is based on a military format. Respect, courtsey and appropriate behavior shall flow from the top down and from the bottom up. This will be adhered to during any department function or activity. Orders or commands given will flow in a top down direction only, any order or command not immediately recognized and accepted (other the a safety issue) by a subordinate will be brought to the attention of the Fire Chief and reviewed. Action taken by the Fire Chief can include verbal reprimand and/or up to dismissal.
4.3 The Training Officer (not an active position at this time)
4.3.A The Training Officer and his/her assistant shall be in charge of all training classes and drills subject to approval by the Fire Chief.
4.3.B The Training Officer will be responsible for scheduling training sessions and will have at least two training classes scheduled ahead and posted on the bulletin board in the meeting hall.
4.3.C The Training Officer will record all training classes and meetings attendance of members on forms provided or approved by the Fire Chief.
4.3.D All training drills and classes will meet the NFPA standards and will follow IFSTA Training Manual guidelines when ever possible.
4.4 The EMT Officer
4.4.A Medical Calls; On medical calls, the ranking or highest level EMT on scene or the highest level first arriving EMT will be in charge of the patients.
4.4.B Motor Vehicle Accidents and Fires;On motor vehicles accidents and fires, the ranking fire officer will be in charge of the scene concerning fire, people (other than patients), and traffic control. The ranking fire officer will also direct assistance with the patient(s) as required by the EMT's. This includes extrication of the patient(s). the EMT's and fire personnel will work hand-in-hand concerning extrication. Remember the main concern during extrication is the patient(s).
The ranking EMT will be in charge of the patient(s) and will be responsible for cancellation of the ambulance.
4.4.C EMT’s from Monroe RFPD will attend at a minim of 2 of the quarter case reviews meeting scheduled by the physician advisor and any other “special” meeting set by the physician advisor.
4.5 Public Fire and Life Safety Educator (not an active position at this time)
4.5.A Purpose:The purpose of this standard is to specify the job performance requirements for serving as a fire and life safety educator.
4.5.B Scope:This standard identifies the levels of professional performance required for public fore and life safety educators. It specifically identifies the job performance requirements necessary to perform as a public fire and life safety educator.
4.5.C GeneralIt is the Monroe Rural Fire Protection District's responsibility to provide for the training of a public fire and life safety educator to a prescribed minimum level prior to the person engaging in those duties.
The job performance requirements for a public fire and life safety educator shall be completed in accordance with recognized practices and procedures or as defined by law or by the Monroe Rural Fire Protection District.
The Monroe Rural Fire Protection District shall establish the instructional priority and the training program content to prepare individuals to meet the job performance requirements.
Evaluation of job performance requirements shall be by individuals approved by the Fire Chief. Evaluators shall be individuals who were not involved as instructors for the requirement being evaluated.
The public fire and life safety educator at all levels of progression shall remain current with educational methodology, technology, and technical content by attending workshops/seminars, or by means of professional publications, journals, and videos.
4.5.D Training
The prescribed minimum level of training includes knowledge of:a) Fire behavior
b) Organizational structure, function, and operationc) Human behavior during fired) Injury causes/preventione) Escape planningf ) Hazard identification and correction
g) Basic fire protection systems/devicesh) Emergency reportingi) Fire fighter personal protective equipment.
4.5 cont…..Typical presentation methods include:
a) Lecturesb) Skitsc) Gamesd) Role playinge) Questioningf) Team teachingg) Discussionsh) Musici) Characterizationsj) Demonstrationsk) Modelingl) Videosm) Filmsn) Slides.
CONFIDENTIAL Monroe RFPD
Volunteer Firefighter Exit Form
Name: _____________________ Date: _________________
Address: ____________________________ Position: ______________
Join Date: __________________ Station: ________________
Leave Date: _________________
PART I: Reasons for leaving:More than one reason may be given, if appropriate, if so, circle primary reason.
VOLUNTARY RESIGNATION: Joined other department Dissatisfaction with Chief/Officers Physical Related Issues Dissatisfaction with other Volunteers Poor Heath/Physical Disability Dissatisfaction with working conditions Relocation to another City Military leaves of absence (6+ months) Travel Difficulties Failure to return from leave of absence To attend school Too many training requirements Dissatisfaction with type of work Not enough training requirements Other (Specify)
RETIREMENT: Voluntary Retirement Compulsory Retirement
COMPULSORY RESIGNATION / TERMINATION Absenteeism Dishonesty Violation of District rules or policies Insubordination Violation of Volunteer Assoc. Bylaws Unsatisfactory work performance Failure to follow guidelines Other (Specify): Lack of respect for Chain of Command
Additional reasons for leaving/Plans after leaving: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Monroe Rural Fire Protection District - Volunteer Exit interview Form - Page I
Exit Interview, Part 2
I ______________________________________ hereby acknowledge that my responsibilities with the Monroe Rural Fire Protection District as aVolunteer are terminated, effective the _______ day of _________________ 200_.
I certify that I have received no injuries as a volunteer for the District that have not been reported to the Fire Chief, except the following:________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
I certify that I have returned all District property to the District, including but not limited to communication equipment, turnouts, and other equipment or manuals provided by the District.
Please check one of the following:
I do do not authorize the Monroe Rural Fire Protection District to release information regarding my volunteer training, personnel material and records. I agree to hold the District harmless from and release them from any claims, which would relate to the release of such information when the release has been specifically authorized by me.
I acknowledge that the District owes me no moneys nor holds any property belonging to me,
Date: _________________
Volunteer's Signature: ________________________________
Chief's Signature: _________________________________
Board Representative's Signature: _________________________________
Monroe Rural Fire Protection District - Volunteer Exit Interview Form - Page 2
APPENDIX A
A.1 Approval Signatures for 3.1 number 6
Date of SOG’s 12/13/07
---------------------------------------------- -------------------Dave Rainey Board Chairperson Date
---------------------------------------------- -------------------Joe Loving Vice Chairperson Date
---------------------------------------------- -------------------Bill Oakes Secretary/Treasurer Date
---------------------------------------------- -------------------George Daugherty Board Member Date
---------------------------------------------- ------------------- Collin Crocker Board Member Date
---------------------------------------------- -------------------Rick Smith Fire Chief Date
All revised editions of the SOG’s shall contain these signatures.
Any intermediate revisions shall be kept in the back of the Master Copy and will contain these signatures on the actual SOG until they are incorporated into a new edition or revision. The Master Copy of the SOG’s shall be kept in a location that is available to all members of the District and the Rural Board of Directors.