G-AERI Aerial, Ladder, Tower, and Platform Operations Part 1

Aerial, Ladder, Tower, and Platform Ladders Guidelines

Responsibility

• All TFS personnel are responsible for understanding proper apparatus deployment, operations, and limitations.
• Company Officers are responsible for ensuring proper positioning and safe operation of apparatus, and for ensuring crew members have been trained to operate the apparatus.
• District Chiefs shall ensure that personnel adhere to this guideline.
• The Incident Commander (IC) is responsible for requesting and utilizing apparatus at an incident.

Positioning Guidelines

• Aerial devices should be positioned carefully, as there is usually only one opportunity for effective positioning.
• The proper distance from buildings/obstacles varies and depends on the required height and the use of the apparatus.
• The collapse zone of the structure should be considered when positioning the apparatus.
• Apparatus should be positioned for best advantage, considering access, rescue, improvised standpipe and/or master stream operations, and water supply.
• Ensure apparatus is positioned to provide sufficient clearance to avoid sewers and catch basins.
• Ensure apparatus is positioned to provide sufficient clearance for stabilizers to be deployed fully.
• Ensure apparatus is not positioned over an area where the weight of the apparatus could exceed load limits (e.g., underground parking garages).
• Ensure apparatus is positioned on a level, solid footing, if possible.

Operations Guidelines

• A minimum of two firefighters are required to set up or bed any aerial device.
• The driver of the apparatus is responsible for performing setup operations, and the 2nd firefighter is responsible for ensuring that proper procedures are followed.
• Personnel should follow general practices for safe operation of all apparatus stabilizers as per TFS SOG’s and manufacturer specifications.
• Water Tower apparatus should be no further than 30m (100 ft.- two hose lengths) from a supply source.
• A second intake line should be secured as soon as possible to maximize water supply if over 30m (100 ft.).
• Dual Position Waterway apparatus should be operated following strict TFS procedures and manufacturers specifications.
• Switching between Rescue Mode and Water Tower Mode should only occur at a minimum 20° ladder angle with a drained waterway, fully retracted ladder, and visual confirmation that the monitor carriage locks are engaged.