Hoffman Estates Fire Department Aerial Operations

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Questions and Answers

What should you avoid doing when operating the aerial device?

Maintaining a safe distance from power lines

-authorizing charging of water pipe

Communicating with spotters to ensure no hazards are present

Resting the ladder or basket on a window ledge (correct)

What is the correct sequence of operations to clear the aerial device?

Raise, extend, rotate (correct)

Raise, rotate, extend

Extend, raise, rotate

Rotate, extend, raise

What should you plan for when moving the aerial device?

Identifying obstructions in the area

Alerting personnel on the turntable

Communicating with spotters

All of the above (correct)

What is the primary purpose of the load gauge?

To assure proper loading of the ladder Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when entering the platform from the ground?

Close and latch the gate after all personnel have entered Signup and view all the answers

What should you avoid doing when moving the aerial device towards the ground or a structure?

Powering the device into the ground or onto a structure Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Short-Jack configuration?

Not mentioned in the content Signup and view all the answers

What should you do before rotating the aerial device?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

According to the SOG, what is the purpose of the downward pressure on the ladder boom?

To prevent the ladder from bouncing during travel Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following components MUST be completely retracted before operating the aerial ladder?

Stabilizers Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the AERIAL MASTER switch being in the OFF position before operating the aerial ladder?

It prevents accidental activation of the ladder while preparing for operation Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary safety concern mentioned regarding the placement of the tower for aerial operations?

The tower should be positioned away from overhead obstructions and electrical lines Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential to contact the local utility company when operating the tower near electrical power lines?

To ensure the power lines are de-energized for safety Signup and view all the answers

According to the SOG, what is the initial step in preparing the tower for operation?

Verifying that the ladder is properly secured in its boom support Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a guideline for positioning the tower for aerial operations?

The tower should be positioned as close to the fire as possible Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the AERIAL PTO switch in the preparation of the tower for operation?

It controls the power supply to the hydraulic system for the aerial ladder Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct procedure for deploying the stabilizers when space is limited?

Extend the middle stabilizers as far as possible on the side where the aerial ladder will be used, and extend the opposite side's middle stabilizer as far as space permits. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the 'FRONT AND REAR STABILIZER JACKS FIRM ON GROUND' indicator lights?

To confirm that the stabilizers are properly deployed and firmly in contact with the ground. Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum safe operating capacity when the apparatus angle indicators are within the yellow range?

50% of the load chart capacity. Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct procedure when the apparatus angle indicators are outside the yellow range?

Reposition the apparatus until the angle indicators are within the green range. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to level the apparatus as much as possible before operation?

To ensure the accuracy of the load chart values. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary indicator that the apparatus is properly leveled?

The apparatus angle indicators are within the green range. Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of operating the apparatus with the angle indicators outside the green range, but within the yellow range?

The load chart values must be reduced by 50%. Signup and view all the answers

What is the importance of the 'Apparatus Leveling Safe Operating Limits' tables found in the Pierce Operator's Manual?

They determine the maximum safe load capacity based on the apparatus's angle. Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in stowing the aerial?

Return the waterway monitor and nozzle to the stowed position. Signup and view all the answers

Which operation should be conducted after the ladder is almost resting in the boom support?

Gently lower the ladder further into the boom support. Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct procedure for retracting the ladder?

Do not completely retract the ladder initially. Signup and view all the answers

In what situation should the stabilizers be retracted?

Only when all personnel have exited the area. Signup and view all the answers

At which point should the lighting and intercom be turned off?

As the final step in the stowing process. Signup and view all the answers

How should the ladder be aligned with the boom support?

Aligned between the boom support ears without resting on it. Signup and view all the answers

What must be ensured before activating the STABILIZER ENABLE switch?

The area is clear of all personnel. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the final lowering of the ladder into the boom support?

To maintain stability during road travel. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a step that should be taken before personnel begin climbing the aerial ladder?

Position the aerial device so that it will need to be extended or retracted once personnel have begun their climb. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the ladder belt tether while climbing the aerial ladder?

To prevent the climber from falling if they lose their grip. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions is strictly prohibited during the ascent of the aerial ladder?

Repositioning the aerial device once personnel are on the ladder. Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct procedure for entering the aerial platform?

Open the gate, allow personnel to enter, then close and latch the gate once all personnel are inside. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the horizontal area outside the platform?

To facilitate easier entry and exit from the platform. Signup and view all the answers

What is the key safety measure that should be taken immediately after entering the aerial platform?

Clipping the ladder belt tether to a designated anchor point. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a prohibited action while personnel are inside the platform?

Adjusting the position of the aerial device using the controls. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the firefighter in the platform regarding ladder functions?

To be responsible for controlling all ladder functions. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Aerial Operations - Tower 22 (Pierce Mid-Mount Steel Aerial Tower 100’)

Purpose: To safely and effectively set up and operate Tower 22 (TWR22) for aerial operations.

Preparing for Operation

Ensure the ladder is properly in its boom support with sufficient downward pressure to prevent bouncing during travel.
Retract all stabilizers and close/latch all compartment doors.
Restrain stabilizer pads and wheel chocks in their storage brackets.
Turn off the AERIAL MASTER switch and AERIAL PTO switch.

Positioning for Aerial Operations

Position the tower in the best location for safe aerial ladder operation, avoiding overhead obstructions, overhangs, and electrical power lines.
Ensure the apparatus is as level as possible prior to operation, within the limits shown in the "Apparatus Leveling Safe Operating Limits" tables.
Consider wind speed, icing conditions, short-jack configuration, and apparatus set-up angle (green or yellow zone) when positioning.

Safe Operating Limits for Leveling

The apparatus should be leveled within the limits shown in the "Apparatus Leveling Safe Operating Limits" tables for the load chart values to be valid.
If unable to level within the green range, set up within the yellow range, but only with reduced load chart capacity (50%).
If unable to set up within the green or yellow safe limits, reposition the apparatus until it can be.

Entering the Platform

Enter the platform through one of the gates at the front of the platform, ensuring all personnel are secured and within load chart limits.
Align ladder rungs for climbing, ensuring they are free of ice or other slippery substances.
Ensure climbing personnel have both hands and feet free for climbing, maintaining three points of contact.
Never reposition once personnel are on the ladder.

Operating in the Platform

Ladder functions are controlled by the firefighter in the platform.
Operate one function at a time until sufficiently skilled and experienced to use multiple functions safely.

Post Operation – Stowing the Aerial

Return the waterway monitor and nozzle to the stowed position.
Remove any Lyfe options and personnel from the aerial device.
Clear the area and retract the ladder close to the stowed position.
Rotate the ladder until it lines up with the support boom support, then lower and adjust the rotation.
Once the ladder is almost resting in the boom support, fully retract the aerial, ensuring the back of the aerial will not contact the rear of the cab wall.

Post Operation – Stowing the Stabilizers

Reposition the wheel chocks so they will not be pinched when the jacks are retracted.
Ensure the stabilizer area is clear of personnel and activate the STABILIZER ENABLE switch.

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Description

Standard operating guidelines for aerial operations, specifically for Tower 22, a Pierce Mid-Mount Steel Aerial Tower. Effective from January 1, 2022.