SO Exam Required Readings Legislation PDF

Summary

This document contains required readings for SO TAPS, focusing on New Zealand legislation related to fire and emergency response. It specifically outlines key sections of the Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017 and the Health & Safety at Work Act 2015, covering topics such as emergency response procedures, powers of authorised personnel, and workplace safety.

Full Transcript

SO TAPS Required Readings 2022 SO Taps - Required Reading 1. Legislation Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017: Part 1: Subpart 4 – FENZ principal objectives, functions, and operating principles: Section...

SO TAPS Required Readings 2022 SO Taps - Required Reading 1. Legislation Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017: Part 1: Subpart 4 – FENZ principal objectives, functions, and operating principles: Sections 10, 11 and 12 Section 10: FENZ principle objectives are  Reduced unwanted fire and risk associated to life and property - Protect and preserve life - Prevent or limit injury - Prevent and limit damage to property, land, environment Section 11: Main functions of FENZ are  Fire functions  Hazsub functions  MVA and USAR functions These functions include the pre-incident tasks (fire safety and guidance), during incident (ensuring safety of all persons, rendering safe, rescuing persons and USAR services, respectively) Section 12: Additional functions To the extent that FENZ has the capability and capacity, additional functions include  Medicals  Maritime incidents  Rescue (swift water, high angle, collapsed building or structures, confined spaces, animal rescue etc.)  Assistance to transport incidents (traffics, cordoning)  Severe weather related, natural disasters  HAZSUBS  Any other incident, in which FENZ has a capacity to assist Part 2: Emergencies, Fire Control, Industry Brigades, Water Supply, and Evacuation Schemes: Sections 38 to 51 Section 38: Alarm of fire or any fire reported If an alarm, or fire reported authorised persons responding may perform FENZ functions (extinguish and prevent spread, save life and property), as well as;  Direct any person to stop an activity that contributes to the emergency  Request any person, orally or in writing, to do an action to prevent the spread and limit emergency  Direct anyone to leave and refrain person from entering 1 Section 39: Hazardous substance emergency Authorised person responding to a hazsubs emergency, by practical means will perform FENZ functions (render safe, save life and property) as well as;  Direct anyone to stop an activity that may contribute to the emergency, request an action, direct to leave and refrain entry  If this section applies, the authorised person has the powers of an enforcement officer under the Hazardous substances and new organisms act 1996 until the arrival of an enforcement officer Section 40: Emergency that does not involve fire or hazsubs If an emergency occurs that does not involve hazsubs or fire, authorised person responding to an emergency may  Stabilise and render safe  Take whatever action to save life and property  Direct to stop, request an action, direct to leave or refrain entry Section 41: Duty of authorised person to control and direct Authorised person who is in charge of personnel responding to an event must control and direct  All FENZ personnel  Any personnel that puts their services at the disposal of authorised person Section 42: Powers of authorised person in relation to land, building, or structure May exercise powers under this section necessary to perform his or her functions Authorised person, responding to an emergency may;  Enter any building, structure, land  Break into any building that may be on fire, near or endangered  Take or send any equipment to be used  Remove from any premise or near location, any flammable, combustible, explosive, or dangerous material  Any building, or in vicinity of building, that is on fire or endangered, to be pulled down or shored up, in whole or part, during the emergency or within a reasonable time afterwards  In this section, equipment refers to: - Plants, appliances, device belonging to or in the possession of FENZ and any personal equipment or clothing provided by FENZ 2 Section 43: Powers of an authorised person in relation to vegetation Authorised person may, if they consider it necessary to extinguish or prevent fire, reduce danger from any emergency;  Cause any vegetation to be cut or pulled down  Any vegetation that is adjacent to, in the vicinity of any building or premise on fire, to be cut down in whole or part  Set fire to any vegetation to back burn or burnout any fire  If any vegetation has been burnt and poses a risk to life and property, to be cut or pulled down in whole or full  If considered necessary, remove cut down vegetation to a safe area Section 44: Other powers of authorised person Authorised person in charge of personnel engaged at an emergency may; Cause water to be shut off Close any road or rail Remove any vehicle impeding personnel (use force if deemed necessary to break in) Use reasonable force to remove persons from emergency who is in danger, posing danger or interferes Section 45: Power to destroy or dispose of any by product An authorised person may destroy or dispose of any by product after rendering safe a HAZ emergency, if the owner cannot be contacted, it is not feasible to transfer to another authority or authorised person considers it necessary to. Section 46: Conclusive evidence of authority to perform function, duty, or exercise power By doing any function, duty or exercise of power is conclusive evidence of their power and authority to carry out said function, duty or power Section 47: Subject to certain enactments Sections 38 – 46 subject to “diplomatic privileges and immunities act 1968” and section 93(1) of the Defence act 1990. From my understanding, this is an inability to enter defence areas (boats, premise, ships, military craft) and diplomatic premises e.g. consulate buildings Section 48: Power to use water for any emergency and training purposes All FENZ personnel under this act, free of charge have access to  Any hydrant and control valves - For emergencies - Training purposes  Use water from any source for the same reasons above 3 Section 49: Duty to notify hazsub agencies in the case of hazsub emergencies If an authorised person takes action under section 39 of this act, FENZ must notify the relevant hazsub agencies. This notification must be made as soon as possible, and include nature and location of hazsub emergency Section 50: Duty to provide reports to hazardous substance agencies Every 12 months, FENZ must provide a report to EPA and other relevant hazsub agencies. This report must include;  Details of hazsub emergency  State whether staff from hazsub agency attended the event  State total cost of FENZ response to hazsub events that FENZ has attended Section 51: Power of authorised person to direct personnel The authorised person, instead of acting on his own personal accord, can direct any personnel to do anything the authorised person is required to do Part 2: Fire Seasons: Sections 56 to 59 Section 56: Prohibited or restricted fire seasons By public notice, FENZ may declare any area a prohibited fire season/restricted fire season. An area that is not in restricted or prohibited season, is in open season. FENZ may revoke this declaration. FENZ may also by public notice, impose restriction of public conservation land that is in the area of the restricted fire season. Section 57: Fire in the open air during prohibited season A person must not light or allow another to light an open fire in a prohibited fire season. This does not apply for if granted a permit under section 190 or conditions of the permit. Persons who commit this offence are liable on conviction for 300k-600k or/and maximum of two years imprisonment. Section 58: Fire in an open air during restricted fire season Same as above Section 59: Permit must be produced for inspection when required Applies in relation to permit granted under section 190. A person lighting a fire must carry the permit, before, during and until fire extinguished and provide said permit when demanded by an authorised person. A person who commits an offence is liable for maximum 25k (individual)-50k (multiple) or 2 months’ imprisonment/both. 4 Part 4: Subpart 4 – Powers of entry, inspection, and search: Sections 170 to 172, 175 and 176 Section 170: Powers of entry and inspection An inspector may at any reasonable time enter and inspect any land or building for the purposes of one or more of the reasons for entry.  Pre-incident planning:  Assess compliance with the requirements under any relevant fire safety legislation:  Conduct post-incident analysis. An inspector cannot use this power to enter a home, marae or a building associated with a marae without complying with section 171. Section 171: Powers to enter homes and Marae Section 171 of the Act states that an inspector must not enter a home, marae or a building associated with a marae, unless the occupier gives consent, or an entry warrant is issued Section 172: Powers to deal with cause of imminent danger Section 172 of the Act states that if an inspector enters any land or building under section 170 or 171 and reasonably believes that any material, substance, structure or thing on or in the land or building is defective or hazardous to a degree that it’s likely to imminently cause an emergency, then the inspector may seize, destroy, suppress or take a sample of the item in question. Consent from the owner or occupier and a sample of the item is taken before seizure, destruction, or suppression is carried out, if practicable. Written notice of the action taken is provided to the owner or occupier as soon as possible after the event. Section 175: Power to restrict or prohibit entry to sites Can restrict or prohibit entry to site of an emergency in order to preserve and record evidence, or prevent tampering, alteration of destruction of anything involved in the emergency. This restriction extends for as reasonably necessary for FENZ to carry out their objectives (to preserve and record evidence) Section 176: Application to FENZ for access to sites to which entry is prohibited or restricted In writing, a person may apply to be let in. This person can be owner, occupier, or insurer, conditionally or unconditionally met. FENZ may refuse application if granting may prejudice the preservation of evidence or recording of, or lead to tampering. If refused, has to be informed in writing. 5 Health & Safety at Work Act 2015 Part 1: Health & Safety at Work: Key Terms Sections 20, 22 to 25 Section 20: Meaning of workplace A workplace means a place where work is being carried out, or customarily carried out, for a business or undertaking; and includes any place where a worker goes, or is likely to be, while at work. Place includes, a vehicle, vessel, aircraft, ship or other mobile structure; any waters and any installation on land, on the bed of any waters, or floating on any waters. Section 22: Meaning of reasonably practicable Reasonably practicable, in relations to a duty of a PCBU means that which is, or was, at a particular time, reasonably able to be done in relation to ensuring health and safety, taking into account and weighing up all relevant matters. PCBU: is a ‘Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking’. Section 23: Meaning of notable injury or illness A notifiable injury or illness, in relation to a person, means injury or illness that require the person to have:  Immediate treatment (other than 1st aid) or  Require the person to be admitted to a hospital for immediate treatment or  Person to have medical treatment within 48 hours of exposure to a substance or  Any serious infection to which the carrying out of work is a significant contributing factor or  Any other injury or illness declared by regulations to be a notifiable injury or illness for the purposes of this section. Section 24: Meaning of notifiable incident A notifiable incident means an unplanned or uncontrolled incident in relation to a workplace that exposes a worker or any other person to a serious risk to that person’s health or safety arising from an immediate or imminent exposure to a hazard. Examples include:  a substance escaping, spilling, or leaking an implosion, explosion or fire  gas or steam escaping a pressurised substance escaping  electric shock Section 25: Meaning of notifiable event Notifiable event means any of the following events that arise from work:  Death of a person; Notifiable injury or illness;  A notifiable incident. 6 Part 2: Health & Safety Duties: Sections 36 & 47 (1 and 2), 44 to 46, 53, 55, 56 Subpart 2 – Duties of PCBUs Section 36: Primary duty of care Primary duty is a PCBU must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of workers who work for the PCBU, while the workers are at work in the business or undertaking. This means ensuring, so far as is reasonably practicable:  the health and safety of workers who work for the PCBU (e.g. employees or contractors, including their subcontractors or workers) while they are at work in the business or undertaking  the health and safety of workers whose work activities are influenced or directed by the PCBU while the workers are carrying out the work (e.g. a franchise company whose franchise requirements influence or direct the workers of the franchisee)  that other persons are not put at risk by the work of the business or undertaking (e.g. a visitor to the workplace, or members of the public who could be affected by a work activity). Section 37: Duty of PCBU who manages or controls workplace Most duties under HSWA relate to the conduct of work. However, certain duties relate to workplaces. A PCBU who manages or controls a workplace must ensure that, so far as is reasonably practicable, the workplace, the means of entering and exiting the workplace, and anything else arising from the workplace are without health and safety risks to any person. A ‘workplace’ is any place where a worker goes or is likely to be while at work, or where work is being carried out or is customarily carried out. This workplace duty recognises that a workplace may not permanently be a workplace for the PCBU. PCBUs who manage or control workplaces do not owe this duty to anyone who is at the workplace for an unlawful purpose. Example Lines workers are carrying out a one-off repair of a power pole. Once they complete the work and leave, it is no longer a workplace for the lines company PCBU as the workers are not usually at that location for work. Subpart 3 – Duties of officers, workers, and other persons Section 44: Duty of officers Officers must exercise due diligence to make sure that the PCBU complies with its health and safety duties. They must exercise the care, diligence and skill a reasonable officer would exercise in the same circumstances, taking into account matters including the nature of the business or undertaking, and the officer’s position and nature of their responsibilities. 7 Section 45: Duty of workers A PCBU must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of workers. This means ensuring, so far as is reasonably practicable:  the health and safety of workers who work for the PCBU (e.g. employees or contractors, including their subcontractors or workers) while they are at work in the business or undertaking  the health and safety of workers whose work activities are influenced or directed by the PCBU while the workers are carrying out the work (e.g. a franchise company whose franchise requirements influence or direct the workers of the franchisee). Workers have their own health and safety duties Workers must:  take reasonable care for their own health and safety  take reasonable care that what they do, or do not do, does not adversely affect the health and safety of other persons  co-operate with any reasonable workplace health and safety policy or procedure that has been notified to workers  comply, so far as reasonably able, with any reasonable instruction given by the PCBU, so the PCBU can comply with HSWA and regulations. Section 46: Duties of other persons at workplace Other persons at workplaces need to:  take reasonable care for their own health and safety  take reasonable care that others are not harmed by something they do, or do not do  comply, as far as they are reasonably able, with the PCBU’s reasonable health and safety instructions that are given so that the PCBU can comply with HSWA or regulations. Other persons need to take reasonable care that anything they do (or do not do) will not cause others harm. They can be held legally responsible if they cause someone harm and did not take reasonable care. Examples of how actions or inactions can cause harm in the workplace A customer with a full shopping trolley refuses to leave the checkout line even though the supermarket’s fire alarms are ringing and smoke is pouring from the ceiling. One of the supermarket’s fire wardens re-enters the building to convince her to leave and suffers a serious asthma attack, triggered by the smoke. The customer refused to leave the workplace. This inaction harmed a worker 8 Section 53: Actions taken to prevent harm Actions taken to prevent harm Where a person (person A) harms another person (person B) by taking any action necessary to protect person B or any other person from harm, — a) person A does not commit an offence under this Act; and b) if person A is a worker, the PCBU for whom person A carries out work does not commit an offence under this Act What does a PCBU need to do if a notifiable event occurs (Sections 55-57 of HSWA)? Section 55: Duty to preserve sites What must a PCBU do if a notifiable event occurs? Step 1: The PCBU who manages or controls the workplace where the notifiable event occurred must preserve the site The PCBU who manages or controls the workplace must take all reasonable steps to ensure the site of a notifiable event is not disturbed until authorised by an Inspector (i.e. an Inspector gives permission for normal work to resume at the site of a notifiable event). There are exceptions to this. These are if the disturbance is:  to help an injured person  to remove a deceased person  essential to make the site safe or to minimise the risks of a further notifiable event  by or under direction of a constable (police officer)  permitted by the regulator or an Inspector. Regulations can also exclude particular sites from the requirement to preserve sites in particular circumstances (note: there are none at the time of publication). To ensure that the site is not disturbed:  the work set-up should not be changed  any plant, substances or other things involved in the event should stay where they are  work that could interfere with the scene of the event should stop  no alterations should be made to the plant, vehicles, or structures involved. Work can continue in other parts of the workplace. The most important thing is preventing further harm. Example Bill is a farm worker. His jacket becomes entangled in a spinning shaft on a harvester, and in trying to free himself he crushes his hand. His farmhand cuts the power and detaches the device to free Bill’s hand and provides first aid until the ambulance arrives. The rest of the set-up needs to be left as it is until an Inspector releases the scene. Any work being carried out nearby that could interfere with the incident scene is stopped. 9 Section 56: Duty to notify noticeable event Step 2: A PCBU must notify the regulator as soon as possible  A PCBU must ensure the regulator is notified as soon as possible after it becomes aware of a notifiable event arising out of the conduct of the business or undertaking. This notification must be done even if emergency services attend.  If the PCBU does not notify the regulator, commits an office and is liable on conviction:  For an individual, to a fine not exceeding $10,000  For any other person, to a fine not exceeding $50,000  The regulator must be notified by the fastest means possible given the circumstances (telephone, writing (email or other electronic means).  Only one notification is required for each notifiable event. If multiple PCBUs are involved, one PCBU should be nominated to notify the regulator. However, all PCBUs are responsible for ensuring a notification is made.  The person giving the notification must provide details about the notifiable event as requested by the regulator.  For phone notifications, the regulator will send an acknowledgement that the notification has been received. Definitions PCBU: PCBU may be a person if self-employed, however usually refers to a business entity such as a company or organisation (FENZ). Officer: An officer is a person who occupies a specified position or who occupies a position that allows them to exercise significant influence over the management of the business or undertaking. This includes, for example, company directors and chief executives. Officers must exercise due diligence to ensure the PCBU meets its health and safety obligations. Workers: A worker is an individual who carries out work in any capacity for a PCBU. A worker may be an employee, a contractor or sub-contractor, an employee of a contractor or sub-contractor, an employee of a labour hire company, an outworker (including a homeworker), an apprentice or a trainee, a person gaining work experience or on a work trial, or a volunteer worker. Workers can be at any level (e.g. managers are workers too). Other persons: Examples of other persons include workplace visitors and casual volunteers at workplaces. Regulator: Worksafe is NZ’s primary work health and safety regulator. 10 Hazardous Substances New Organisms Act 1996  A ‘hazardous substance emergency’ is defined in section 6 FENZ Act as: the release or potential accidental release of any hazardous substance from any building or other premises, or from any container or pipe, or from any means of transport (whether motorised or not).  Both the FENZ Act and Part 9 of the HSNO Act cover emergencies involving hazardous substances. The FENZ Act definition requires a lower threshold for response than the HSNO Act, meaning that FENZ will always be required to respond first before other agencies become involved under the HSNO Act. 6  Section 7(a) FENZ Act.  As FENZ staff are deemed enforcement officers under the HSNO Act (section 135) and the FENZ Act (section 39) when responding to emergencies.  www.fireandemergency.nz/hazardous-substances/managing-hazardous-substances/  WorkSafe is responsible for the enforcement of HSW HS Regulations in the workplace in relation to packaging, labelling and safety data sheets. Part 9: Emergencies: Sections 135 to 139 Section 135: Interpretation Section 135 of the HSNO Act defines an emergency arising from a hazardous substance or new organism as a situation that presents:  an actual or imminent danger to human health or safety  a danger to the environment or chattels (e.g. structures or vehicles) so significant that immediate action is required to remove the danger - arising from a hazardous substance or new organism. enforcement officer includes any constable, and any employee, volunteer, or contractor of Fire and Emergency New Zealand exercising powers under the Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017. Section 136: Declaration of emergency Declaring an emergency When an enforcement officer has reasonable grounds to believe that an emergency exists, he or she can declare an emergency, and until the emergency is over, has wide powers for managing it. The power to declare an emergency also extends to any member of the New Zealand Police or a person acting as a Chief Fire Officer under the Fire Services Act. When an enforcement officer cannot declare an emergency An enforcement officer does not have the power to declare an emergency when:  a state of civil emergency has been declared  the emergency is being dealt with under the Fire Service Act  an emergency has been declared under the Biosecurity Act  another enforcement officer has already declared an emergency. 11 When is an emergency over? A declared emergency ceases when either:  48 hours pass after the declaration (this can be extended for another 48 hours)  a civil defence emergency is declared  the emergency is treated as an emergency under the Fire Service Act  an emergency is declared under the Biosecurity Act. What is the difference between emergencies and incidents? Incidents under the HSNO Act are less serious than emergencies. The Authority has loosely defined an incident as an occurrence involving a hazardous substance or new organism which is not an emergency but still presents or could have presented a danger to the health and safety of humans and the environment. This definition is used by the Authority in inquiring into incidents and emergencies. Section 137: Emergency powers Dealing with an emergency After an emergency has been declared, enforcement officers have wide powers to deal with the situation. If it is necessary to limit the extent of an emergency, enforcement officers have powers to:  enter into premises using reasonable force to open doors etc.  if necessary, remove or open items and collect samples  direct any person to stop activities  request (but not direct) any person to undertake specific actions  direct any person to leave or not enter the area of the emergency  requisition any property for use in managing the emergency  destroy any property in order to prevent or limit the extent of the emergency  secure the area for up to 24 hours after the immediate danger is past. CLEAN-UP AFTER AN EMERGENC Y The HSNO Regulations The HSNO Act does not provide for cleaning up after an emergency. However, after an emergency, activities involving hazardous substances and/or new organisms need to comply with the controls attached to the substance involved in the emergency. This will have a similar effect. It is the responsibility of the owner or transporter of the hazardous substance to ensure that any spill is cleaned up after an emergency. If the spill is not cleaned up, an enforcement officer can issue a compliance order to make sure that the spill is cleaned up. Section 138: Compensation for property requisitioned or destroyed Compensation for damage The HSNO Act provides for people to be compensated for damage caused as a result of the declaration of an emergency. 12 The provisions apply when an enforcement officer:  requisitions property for use in an emergency  destroys property in order to prevent or limit the extent of the emergency. The compensation is paid for by the organisation that appointed the emergency officer, or out of money appropriated by Parliament. Compensation will not be paid to people who caused or contributed substantially to the emergency. Section 139: Protection of enforcement officers and persons Good faith and reasonable care No legal action can be taken against an enforcement officer, or a person acting under the direction of an enforcement officer, in respect of an emergency where the officer or that person acted in good faith and with reasonable care. 2. National Safety Notices 011/2018: Use of safety equipment when working at heights Our R3 POP Working at heights and line rescue policy provides more information on the correct practice, which all personnel must follow. Reminder when working at heights In April 2016 as was published, confirming that the working at heights rollout was complete and only those personnel with current competency in working at heights (Level 1-line rescue) are permitted to work at heights. Trained Fire and Emergency New Zealand personnel are required to use working at heights equipment when they are:  three metres or higher from the ground  on roofs, unless a risk assessment determines otherwise  lower than three metres and a risk assessment indicates there is a risk of injury through falling. These requirements apply during emergency incidents, non-emergency incidents and training. 13 3. Operational Instructions, Standard Operation Procedures, Policy & Guidelines 1. Reference Guide – Respiratory Protection Equipment (E3-2 RG) Sections 3 (Entry Control Procedures) Introduction The standard operating procedure for BA control is provided in BA Operational Instruction E3-2. Whenever Fire and Emergency personnel use BA, this procedure is to be followed. BA Entry Control must be established whenever BA wearers are required to start up. First arriving appliance No BA wearers will enter a structure until they have confirmed their tally has been entered into an ECB. Confirmed Fire The driver of the second pump would usually become the ECO and establish an ECP. No sign of Fire It is good practice for the ECO to bracket BA teams and record relevant information: - Level and Zone Indicated Telemetry: Whenever more than 7 telemetry BA tallies are required in a Merlin Board during the investigation phase, a second Merlin ECB is to be used for additional BA crews. If, during investigation, wearers are required to start up then BA Stage One Entry Control is to be implemented. At multi-story incident the Lobby Control Officer is not to enter their BA tally into the ECB. They LCO will arrange the ECB to be moved to the Forward Control Point once location is designated by the IC. Any further BA Teams reporting to the ECP are to retain their BA tallies. Only hand their BA tallies if they are required to start up. BA Tallies in ECB’s prior to Stage One Entry Control There will be situations whereby the 1st arriving crew will be some distance away from the ECB when a BA Team is tasked to start-up. This will require an ECP to be established. This may require the ECB with BA Tallies inserted, to be transported to another sector. Once relocated consolidate the BA tallies into one board if there is an additional ECB already deployed at the chosen ECP. May need to be manually logged off by ECO before there are inserted into another Merlin ECB. 14 ECB Established Stage One Entry Control will be implemented whenever BA wearers are required to start up and requires an ECP to be established. Once Stage One Entry Control is implemented, any BA wearers not required to start up are to retrieve their tallies. Stage One Entry Control Stage One Entry Control is the first level of BA control. Entry Control Points are to have an Entry Control Officer assigned to each ECB. BA Emergency Teams If the BA Teams is larger than two have been deployed, then reserve sufficient slots for a BA Emergency Team that should be the same size as the largest deployed team. Entry Control Officer Stage One Entry Control will be under the supervision of an ECO. Siting Entry Control Points The ECPs will generally be setup beside the pump panel until a dedicated ECO is appointed. Once appointed, the ECP should be repositioned next to the incident entry point, away from noise and fumes. When deciding where the ECP should be, the following factors should be taken into account: the size of the inner cordon the location of access points to the risk area the number of levels involved, including the total height and size of the building weather conditions wind direction run off the likely development of the incident the distance from the scene - without compromising the safety of entry personnel, the ECP should be sited as close as practicable to the scene air quality - ECPs should be sited in fresh air. Entry Control Points An ECP is a point set up on the perimeter of the inner cordon to: control the entry and exit of BA wearers monitor the safety of BA wearers ensure a rapid response to BA emergencies. Entry Control Points are to have an Entry Control Officer assigned to each Entry Control Board 15 Entry Control Officer Responsibilities 1. Site (at the direction of IC or SC (if appointed) and setup ECP 2. Wear jerkin 3. Collect tallies from BA wearers, record the ‘time in’ from the board clock and place in ECB. 4. Ensure PPE is correct 5. Monitor radios and alert IC or SC (if appointed) to any BA Emergencies. 6. Ensure wearers have been tasked and the working location agreed before clearance to proceed is given. 7. Bracket BA team 8. Record and calculate: Task/Location/Delivery details. TDO for standard BA wearers or TOW for telemetry on the ECB, RA and RI times. 9. Ensure BA Emergency Team is available. 10. Ensure BA relief team is available. 11. Dispatch relief teams if required. 12. Identify team members of exiting teams, and return their tallies. 13. Instruct exiting teams to report to the IC or SC to convey relevant information and receive further tasking. 14. Follow BA Mayday Procedure. Note: If resources allow, consider tasking a person to assist ECO. This could be carried out by a member of the BA Emergency Team. This provides an opportunity to gain valuable information in the event of a BA Emergency. Merlin failure 1. Inform the OIC. 2. Arrange for a replacement Merlin ECB, as soon as possible. Note: The main clock on the Merlin may continue to work for several hours, even if the power fails. 3. If required, contact Comcen for the: - number of minutes since arrival (gives an approximate start up time for wearers) - current time. 4. Inform the OIC and the BA Teams once the situation is resolved. Telemetry and non-telemetry BA Teams Standard BA Wearers entering through a Merlin ECB Any wearers of a standard BA set can enter through a Merlin ECB only if the BA Tallies fit – if not, then they must enter through a Manual ECB established alongside the Merlin Board. 16 How to work with a manual ECB and the Merlin In the event that manual entry control is established before arrival of telemetry BA Teams: 1. A second ECO sets up the Merlin ECB and logs on any newly arrived telemetry wearers. 2. Any newly arriving non-telemetry wearers will be manually added to the Merlin if the BA Tallies fit – if not then they must enter through the manual ECB. 3. Any newly arriving standard BA Set wearers can be manually added to the Merlin ECB. Telemetry and standard BA wearers in same BA team Whenever possible BA teams should have the same BA type. However, if due to operational requirements, it is necessary to allow telemetry and non-telemetry wearers to form a BA Team the following must apply: a Merlin ECB is to be used the standard BA set tally must fit into the Merlin ECB cylinder size and type of BA Team members must be the same the TDO will be based on the lowest cylinder content. Safety Note: There must be one ECO appointed for each ECB in use. Never split a BA team between 2 ECBs. Exit If any wearer decides to exit for any reason, they may signal this by grasping the contents gauge of any other team member. This signal is non-negotiable and the team will exit immediately. Re-Entry Procedure The re-entry procedure only applies if BA set has been shut down (mask removed). When re-entry is necessary, ensure that: BA Tallies have been updated accordingly. Re-entry is only permitted through an ECP. Minimum Re-Entry Pressure Cylinder Size Minimum Re-Entry Pressure 9L 150 Bar 6.8L 200 Bar Aerial appliances  Aerial crews operating with SCBA (Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus) donned are required to implement entry control whenever they disembark from the head of an aerial ladder or platform while started up. In order to achieve this the following is to apply: before aerial operations commence the aerial crew (if donned in SCBA) are to enter their BA Tallies into their Entry Control Board if one is assigned to the appliance 17 if there is no entry control board assigned to the aerial appliance then the BA Tallies are to be entered into an Entry Control Board of the sector in which they are operating The aerial crew will notify the Entry Control Officer if they are required to disembark from the head of the appliance while started up and provide the following information: cylinder contents task location The aerial crew will notify the ECO once they have returned to the aerial appliance. The ECO will then: enter Time In, Task and Location details calculate duration time and relief team requirements. Fixed Airlines  Bulk cylinder contents are to be monitored by the ground control operator.  Wearers using self-contained BA sets connected to fixed airlines via a belt line are to ensure their cylinder is turned off. If the bulk air supply is exhausted or the wearer leaves the platform then the cylinder is to be turned on, belt line disconnected and stage one entry control implemented.  Whenever masks only are used to connect directly into a fixed airline system on an aerial appliance then entry control is not required. Dedicated BA Emergency Team role has a dedicated, proactive role, is at each ECP and is appointed as soon as possible if utilised as a ‘Relief Team’, must be replaced prior to deployment BA Emergency Team size should match the largest BA Team deployed from that ECP monitors the BA IGC radio channel to gain an understanding of deployed BA Team locations and tasks and to ascertain Fire/ Incident conditions learns the building layout and construction/access/egress provide alternative means of egress if possible (e.g. pitch ladder to upper floors and the ECO to advise teams of location in case it is required) gather equipment appropriate to incident conditions. Consider: 1st Aid Kit/AED/O2 Kit at ECP  Thermal Imaging Camera  Wire cutters Spare BA set for emergency air supply  Access tools (i.e. a crowbar)  Lighting Ladder  Separate delivery for the sole use of the BA Emergency Team. Obtains a copy of the Site Report if available. 18 Response the IC or Sector Commander is to task the initial BA Emergency Team’s response from ECP. the ECO is to manage the BA Teams. a Mayday is issued– directed response of current firefighters already in the vicinity. the BA Emergency Team must be ready to make an entry in less than 3 minutes: - take minimum equipment to meet needs - locate firefighters - silence the DSU and then provide a SITREP (conditions/actions/needs) - effect rescue or request further resources, as required, to achieve a rescue. Note: Where resources allow, consider appointing an Officer at ECPs to assist the ECO. Emergency Procedures Evacuation of Teams Whenever an emergency occurs and the IC requires the BA Teams to be evacuated, the following action is to be taken. 1. Sound all appliance sirens continuously. 2. Announce over all sector IGC radio channels 3. Activate the ‘All Evacuate’ signal on the Merlin ECB. 4. All teams will exit the incident via the nearest exit point immediately and report to the ECO who holds their tallies. 5. The evacuation signal may only cease on the order of the OIC Fire. 6. ECOs are to account for all BA Team personnel. By remaining calm and relaxed, the amount of air consumed can be greatly reduced. BA Mayday Procedure The Mayday Procedure is declared in an emergency situation, where a firefighter may be affected by significant injury, lost, trapped, unaccounted for, or disorientated to a degree that assistance will be needed. When to call ‘Mayday Mayday Mayday’? You must declare a Mayday, when lost, trapped or in trouble. Situations such as: entrapped - unable to self-extricate immediately fall through structural elements any sudden/adverse change in fire conditions that may threaten firefighters' ability to exit safely unable to find an exit, or exit/escape routes are blocked low air warning, difficulty exiting. 19 Who should declare a Mayday? those endangered any personnel who see that others are in obvious danger Officers or ECOs who are unable to account for personnel. The IC is the only person who can declare that Mayday operations have concluded. This will be: when they are satisfied that personnel involved have been removed to a place of safety no further resources are required to deal with the Mayday and appropriate control measures have been implemented to avoid further harm. Endangered Firefighter/BA Team actions The endangered BA wearer shall: attempt to rectify situation if able, transmit via IGC radio to Entry Control stating: “Mayday! Mayday! Mayday! This is [surnames + sector if known] Mayday! Mayday! Mayday!” ECO will reply: “Pass your Mayday Who, Where, What Message” once Mayday is acknowledged pass message “This is [surnames – location – situation, including lowest cylinder contents]” then activate DSU. The BA wearer shall then: conserve air and follow entrapped procedure if appropriate if mask communication system is not connected to the IGC radio, attempt to muffle DSU during verbal messages, received or transmitted, to improve clarity If a BA Team or wearer in distress is unable to declare Mayday, then activate the DSU manually or allow to go into full alarm due to lack of motion. Entrapped Procedure The wearer should try to remain calm, – excitement and exertion, will only increase the rate of breathing and the consumption of air. If a charged delivery is available and can be operated, the wearer should use it to provide protection from radiated heat and saturate any combustible material in their vicinity to slow the spread of fire. Where possible, select the safest available place in which to take a relaxed and comfortable position, ideally, near a wall, pillar or other support. The position should be close to the hose or guide lines that will be used by the rescuers to locate the trapped personnel. By remaining calm and relaxed, the amount of air consumed can be greatly reduced. 20 Incident Ground Personnel Actions Mayday declared All personnel using the BA IGC channel are to restrict radio traffic to critical information until advised by the IC that Mayday operations have concluded. Deployed BA Teams may be directed to assist with a BA Emergency response by IC or Sector Commander responsible for the Mayday. Until this occurs, BA Teams are to continue with their assigned tasks. Fireground discipline is to be maintained. DSU sounding No Mayday declared BA teams hearing a DSU without a Mayday having been declared are to notify the ECO of a DSU activation. If unable to contact ECO, then attempt to contact other BA Teams or investigate cause of activation. Entry Control Officer actions When a BA wearer declares a Mayday then the relevant ECO to acknowledge with “Pass your Mayday Who? Where? What? Message”. Then: note all relevant details (including time and cylinder pressure) on the ECB if telemetry, then acknowledge the DSU activation on the Merlin Board Then the ECO will: advise the BA Emergency Team to start up notify IC or SC via IGC await BA Emergency Team tasking from IC or SC before deploying (unless the BA Emergency Team is tasked directly by IC or SC). this initial tasking may occur via the IGC radio. insert BA Emergency Team BA tallies in the last slots on ECB. Record task / location / delivery details. Calculate TDO / TOW and RA / RI. Mayday declared by ECO (BA Team unable to declare Mayday) 1. Advised or aware of a DSU activation. Unable to contact team, confirmed BA Emergency. 2. BA Team fails to report by TDO or TOW. Unable to contact team, confirmed BA Emergency. 3. Advised by a deployed BA team of a DSU activation. Attempt to contact BA Teams and ascertain the cause of the DSU activation. If BA Emergency, then: instruct BA Emergency Team to start-up notify IC or Sector Commander via the IGC radio: “Mayday! Mayday! Mayday! This is Entry Control [location/sector] Mayday! Mayday! Mayday!” The IC or SC is to acknowledge the Mayday and state “Pass your Mayday Who? Where? What? Message” pass relevant information. 21 NOTE: If it’s unclear which ECO should acknowledge the Mayday declaration, then any ECO shall acknowledge. When it’s clear which ECP the BA in distress belongs to, then the BA Emergency response is to be managed from that ECP or Sector. The ECO will: await BA Emergency Team tasking from IC or SC before deploying (unless the BA Emergency Team is tasked directly by IC or SC) Note: this initial tasking may occur via the IGC radio insert BA Emergency Team BA tallies in the last slots on the ECB continue to monitor wearers on their ECB. if a “RESCUE” BA set is taken by the BA Emergency Team, then the spare BA set tally is to be left with the ECO and attached to the BA Emergency Team tallies. The name “RESCUE” is to be written on this tally (instead of a surname). BA Emergency Team will notify ECO once the spare set is in use and who the wearer is. ECO then updates ECB by replacing existing tally from the BA wearer with the “RESCUE” Tally*. Clip original tally to the now inserted “RESCUE” tally. * For Telemetry BA Sets this will require a Forced Log-off before the new “RESCUE” tally is inserted. Sector Commander actions (affected sector) The Sector Commander: acknowledges the Mayday from the ECO notifies the IC that a Mayday has been declared in their sector tasks the BA Emergency Team before they deploy directs the appropriate emergency response of BA Teams already deployed in the sector is responsible for the initial BA Emergency rescue response - must carry out a dynamic risk assessment (review tactical mode) requests resources as required. Note: The ideal location, in most instances, to direct a BA Emergency response will be from the affected ECP. The ECO will continue to monitor wearers on their ECB as usual. Consider holding back an external BA Emergency Team response until an internal BA Team, directed to respond, has provided further information. Incident Controller actions The Incident Controller: acknowledges the Mayday from the ECO or Sector Commander (if appointed) assumes responsibility for the Mayday directly, and may choose to delegate the response to the Mayday to the appropriate Sector Commander (if appointed) ensures radio traffic is restricted during Mayday operations provides necessary resources to deal with the Mayday, including sending spare BA Teams to the ECP of the affected Sector advises ComCen that a Mayday has been declared carries out a dynamic risk assessment, reviews tactical mode, IGC plan and IAP 22 ensures the Safety Officer is advised declares when Mayday operations have concluded. Consider: upgrading to a greater alarm or requesting specialist resources establishing a Sector, to support rescue activities evacuation requirements. Note ComCen Notifications On receipt of the Mayday: request Ambulance Duty Commander any confirmed injury, existing ComCen Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) shall apply. Sudden air loss procedure In the event of a sudden loss of air, check that the cylinder valve is turned on. If the cylinder valve is on, then: 1. Operate the supplementary supply valve 2. Inform your BA team and if possible declare a “Mayday” 3. Operate the DSU 4. Exit to the ECP. Stage Two entry control procedures The Stage Two entry control is implemented to provide BA wearer and equipment needs. When to implement Stage Two entry control procedure The Stage Two entry control procedure shall be set up at all incidents where: three or more entry points are established six or more teams of BA wearers are working at one time the OIC Fire considers it necessary (e.g. when BA operations are likely to be protracted) BA guidelines are likely to be used. When Stage Two entry control is required, the OIC Fire will appoint a BA Support Officer (BASO). The BASO is responsible for providing BA resources to each Sector. Whenever the ECO requires additional resources, then this request will be through the IC or SC (if appointed). A BASO Stage Two Entry Control logistics board is located on each Command Unit. This is to assist the BA Support Officer in their role. 23 Stage Two Entry Control BA Support Officer responsibilities Chain of Command Liaison Liaise with Incident Controller or Logistic Commander (if appointed) to determine BA resource requirements. Resources Meet the BA resourcing requirements of each Sector. BA Staging Area Create a BA Staging Area at the direction of the Incident Controller Location - consider: easy access for arrival of additional resources close to rehabilitation area. Marshall BA wearers at agreed locations. Collect any spare BA cylinders or relevant resources from Entry Control Points and move them to the BA Staging Area. Arrange for: sufficient fully charged cylinders sufficient BA recommissioning sufficient disinfectant and other equipment. spare entry control boards telemetry repeaters (if required) additional equipment as required. Communications Establish and maintain communication with Incident Controller or Logistics Commander (if appointed). Advising the OIC Fire The BASO is to keep the Incident Controller informed of all BA matters. Other duties The BASO shall have no other duties other than those directly related to the BA function. 24 Section 4 (Searching & Breathing Apparatus Rescue Techniques) Introduction When conducting a search and rescue, the main aim is to locate and remove any casualty. Size up on arrival On arrival, the Incident Controller will have begun an initial appraisal of the situation, which will determine whether there are any persons missing or unaccounted for, and what actions are required. The size up will consider: information provided by other emergency services, members of the public, occupants of the building signs of current occupation (e.g. vehicles in the driveway) identifying the number of occupants still in the building and their possible location identifying the immediate threat to life the availability of personnel and equipment to affect a safe and effective rescue operation. The Incident Controller will use the above information to determine tactics. In extreme cases, where the fire is well advanced within the structure, or the building is structurally unsafe, it may mean that an immediate rescue is not possible as it will only put firefighters lives at risk. If a structure is so well involved that it is unsafe for firefighters to enter, then it is doubtful that any occupants would have a chance of surviving.. The structure fire risk assessment graph highlights the relationship between time and temperature and indicates the point at which the ‘window of safety’ has expired and structural collapse becomes the greatest risk to firefighters. This graph will form the basis of any decision made by an Incident Controller as to whether offensive or defensive structural fire attack should be employed at an incident. Prioritising the Search and Rescue Operation Rescue operations should follow a set priority to ensure a coordinated approach and maximise firefighter effort. The following priorities should be considered whenever rescues are required. 1. Occupants most severely threatened 2. Largest group of occupants 3. Remaining occupants within the building involved in fire 4. Occupants in exposed areas. 25 When it is not obvious that immediate rescues are required, a search may be conducted with its own priorities. 1. Known and suspected occupied areas (e.g. bedrooms at night) 2. Entry and exit points 3. Windows and balconies 4. Other areas. In heavily smoke logged buildings, occupants will tend to move towards exits or ventilation points such as windows. Areas behind doors and under windows should always be checked thoroughly. There are two types of search procedures that may be undertaken at an incident, these are: Primary Secondary Primary Search  A Primary Search is a rapid thorough methodical search of all the areas affected by fire, which can be entered safely.  The purpose of this search is to find and remove all occupants to safety. The safety of firefighters must always be the first consideration before entering structures. A Primary Search will involve checking a range of internal indicators such as: doors locked internally  meals left on the table household appliances left on  anything indicating recent habitation. When conducting the Primary Search, firefighters must take a charged delivery into the building. This provides: protection for firefighters and any casualties located. a tool which may assist firefighters in reducing the risk of imminent fire behaviour such as flashover or backdraught. a means of identifying and protecting an escape route. means of conducting initial fire knockdown and suppression. Secondary Search  A secondary search occurs once the situation is under control and the incident has been contained.  It is a way to confirm the presence of casualties and to account for all occupants. The secondary search may even be coordinated in conjunction with ventilation and overhaul operations.  Another purpose of this search is to secure the scene for investigation of the fire cause and for this reason, it is vitally important to exercise care. This ensures as little disturbance as possible to any evidence that may exist to assist Fire Investigation procedures. 26 Safe person concept It’s important that safety procedures are rigidly observed on every occasion. Firefighters are to use the Dynamic Risk Assessment techniques to ensure safety. BA rescue techniques Obviously Deceased  The only time a casualty is not removed is if they are obviously deceased and foul play is apparent (e.g. decapitation, being burnt beyond recognition, or massive physical trauma), and there is no further risk of the body being affected by fire.  See Operational Instruction G3 Death at Incidents for further reading on dealing with deceased persons at an incident. Unconscious casualties  Unresponsive casualties are difficult to move. Because of this, the rescuer needs to consider a range of techniques to move them. Process If during a search you come across a casualty, do the following: 1. Decide what technique will get them out. Keep in mind the hazards associated with heat, smoke or location. Check whether the casualty is responsive and mobile or not. 2. Advise (via IGC radio) that a casualty has been located and request assistance if required. 3. Remove the casualty to a place of safety. 4. Commence First Aid or hand the casualty over to a First Aid provider. 5. Advise the IC or Sector Commander of where the casualty was found. Correct lifting and moving techniques Remember when lifting or moving a casualty to use the correct technique: keep your back straight knees should be bent at the start of the lift. Depending on the condition of the casualty, there are a variety of removal techniques available. The following pages explain those techniques. Firefighter requires additional air In extreme situations where a firefighter requires air (e.g. trapped) it is possible to use a spare BA set to provide them with additional air. If the firefighter in distress is conscious then explain your actions before carrying them out: if a spare BA Set is taken by the BA Emergency Team then the spare BA set Tally is to be left with the ECO and attached (using carabiner) to BA Emergency Team Tallies BA Emergency Team are to notify ECO once “RESCUE” set is in use and who the wearer is. 27 The ECO will: await BA Emergency Team tasking from IC or SC before deploying (unless the BA Emergency Team is tasked directly by IC or SC) insert BA Emergency Team BA tallies in the last slots on the ECB continue to monitor wearers on their ECB. If a “RESCUE” BA set is taken by the BA Emergency Team, then the spare BA set tally is to be left with the ECO and attached to the BA Emergency Team tallies. Attach this using a carabiner. The name “RESCUE” is to be written on this tally. (instead of a surname). BA Emergency Team will notify ECO once the spare set is in use and who the wearer is. ECO then updates ECB by replacing existing tally from the BA wearer with the “RESCUE” Tally. Clip original tally to the now inserted “RESCUE” tally. Forced Logoff will be required for Telemetry BA sets before “RESCUE” Tally is inserted. Supplying emergency air via CEJN connection 1. Remove LDV line and mask from CEJN connection of spare BA Set. 2. Ensure cylinder of spare BA Set is turned on fully and back a part turn. 3. Place the BA Set so that both CEJN connections are close together. 4. Disconnect CEJN from BA Set of the fire-fighter requiring air and reconnect to CEJN of the spare BA Set. Note: The CEJN is a double action connection. To disconnect, pull back on the collar and push in at the same time. To reconnect push the LDV hose line into the CEJN connection until it’s secure. Supplying emergency air via LDV connection 1. Reset first breath mechanism on spare BA set them remove LDV from mask. 2. Ensure cylinder of spare BA Set is turned on fully and back a part. 3. Place the BA set so that both LDV connections are close together. 4. Disconnect LDV from mask of firefighter requiring air. 5. Connect LDV from spare BA set to firefighter's mask then press supplementary supply button to ensure first breath mechanism operates. 28 2. Air Purifying Respirator – E3-2 GD FENZ APRs are made up of:  Draegar FPS facemask A 40mm NATO threaded adaptor An MPC Plus filter canister Function An APR enables the wearer to safely breathe air in environments that contain hazards. Not Approved for use:  At hazardous substance emergencies.  In atmospheres that may be immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH), including where the: - Carbon Monoxide exceeds 400 ppm, or - O2 concentration is less than 19.5% or more than 23.5%  If in any doubt use BA. Filter Canister Specifications - Shelf life: 5 years from date of manufacture Stowage: Canisters and adaptors are to be stored in a manner that protects them from:  Dust, heat, fuels/lubricants, water and physical damage from heavy objects. Apply Label  Following the use of an APR, mark off each 30 minutes of use – or part thereof on the label. Inspect Filter Canister Ensure that: Expiry date has not passed and packaging is intact. Note: Filter media with visible physical damage should be discarded immediately. Inspect Adaptor - Visually inspect the NATO adaptor to ensure the O ring and non-return valve are in place. Carrying Out Negative Pressure Test  Cover the filter canister inlet with palm and inhale sharply – facemask should be drawn on to the face.  If a leak is detected, readjust the facemask until a satisfactory seal is achieved. If unable to achieve a seal, use B.A. APR Use Criteria - May use APRs as an alternative to B.A:  AT wildfire incidents, as long as they are not also protecting a structure (B.A. must be worn).  During overhaul after a structure fire is extinguished but only if additional criteria in the table are met.  If exposed to smoke at an incident and B.A. is not appropriate for the activity, they are undertaking e.g. pump operating, sector commander.  If exposed to smoke during training activities.  Conducting fire investigation. 29 Criteria for using APR during overhaul/post-fire activities Situation Yes No Is the fire out? Next Question Use B.A. Has a K42 Sitrep been transmitted? Next Question Use B.A. Have 45 minutes or more of ventilation occurred since this message? Next Question Use B.A. Have O2 & CO levels been tested & confirmed as acceptable? (continuous monitoring required) Next Question Use B.A. Have a successful negative pressure test been completed? Use APR Use B.A. Troubleshooting If you can taste or smell contaminants:  Discontinue work and move into fresh air.  Advise the OIC Fire/IC, who will re-assess whether APR use is still appropriate.  Re-Check dates and labels.  Re-check mask fit and negative pressure test. On re-entry, if you can still taste or smell contaminants:  Cease using the canister  Impound he mask, adaptor and canister for later investigation Re- package canister for re-use  Seal the canister by placing caps over each port. Canister Disposal Canisters must be disposed of when the first of these occurs:  Eight hours of operation use  Three months from removal of canister from sealed packaging  Expiry date of canister is reached/passed/unreadable  Damage to canister affecting integrity of respiratory protection.  Canister out of its packaging with no label affixed. Used canisters should be sealed in a bag or wrapped for disposal in general waste. Regular Checks  Packaging intact Expiry date  Within 3 months useable period after opening Usable time left on label  The O-ring and non-return valve are in place on NATO adaptor Re-ordering APR Re-order:  Canister and caps through the Workwear online  Masks and adaptors through your B.A. Service Hubs  Usage stickers form Online Ordering (OLO) through your Area Business Support. 30 3. Respiratory Protection Equipment – E3-2 POP When to use: FENZ Personnel will follow the requirements of this national policy when:  Using respiratory protection equipment  Managing or controlling personnel who use respiratory protection equipment Policy Objectives: describes the rules for use of respiratory protection equipment by FENZ personnel. Policy Requirements: Facial hair: The complete sealing surface of the respiratory protection mask and orinasal (inner) mask shall be in contact with the wearer’s skin. Definition: Respiratory protection equipment is:  Self-contained B.A.  Fixed airline B.A.  APR Role of OIC Fire / Incident Commander:  Determining the minimum level of respiratory protection required at an incident.  Ensuring that all FNZ personnel wearing respiratory protective equipment at an incident have the relevant current competencies. Level of Respiratory Protection Equipment Situation Respiratory Protection Equipment Required Before entering a structure to investigate a fire or BA (donned) suspected fire (including a private fire alarm call) Risk of exposure to toxic substances BA (donned and started up) Risk of exposure to fumes BA (donned and started up) Risk of exposure to products of combustion BA (donned and started up) OR APR (if criteria met) Risk of exposure to particulates BA (donned and started up) OR APR (if criteria met) Any other irrespirable atmosphere BA (donned and started up) APR use criteria: Check Reading 2 – APR regarding criteria pg. 30 Respiratory Protection Equipment on Appliances BA Equipment on Appliances: Every appliance carrying BA will have:  An entry control board  An entry control officer jerkin  A minimum of one BA main guideline BA set requirements: All BA sets will include the following equipment:  BA tally  Distress Signal Unit (DSU)  Personal line  A torch 31 APR Equipment on Appliances:  Carer appliances will carry the same number of APR canisters and adaptors as they do BA sets. Entry Control Requirements Stage One Entry Control Entails:  controlling the entry and exit of BA wearers using the entry control board  monitoring the safety of BA wearers  ensuring there is a response to any emergency involving BA wearers  maintaining resources for BA wearers. The role of Entry Control Officer (ECO) will initially be carried out by the pump operator. The OIC Fire/IC will appoint a dedicated ECO as soon as possible. Stage Two Entry Control Applies When: three or more entry control points are set up, or six or more teams of BA operators are working at any one time, or the OIC Fire/IC considers it necessary. When Stage Two Entry Control is set up, the OIC Fire/IC will appoint a BA Support Officer (BASO). Training Requirements Who is Trained: The following personnel will be trained and assessed to the relevant national training standards in: BA:  firefighters carrying out operational duties requiring the use of BA  non-Fire and Emergency personnel covered by an MOU  BA Service Hub personnel carrying out Fire and Emergency on-site station repairs to BA  Approved Fillers trained to fill BA cylinders. APR:  firefighters carrying out operational duties requiring the use of APR  Specialist Fire Investigators  Executive Officers. Note: OICs may allow an untrained person to use BA provided they are under constant supervision of Fire and Emergency during an emergency, if their knowledge and skill is required. 32 Current Competency: All Fire and Emergency personnel who are required to wear: BA will have current competency in wearing the type of BA required at their location (i.e. standard or telemetry) APR will have current competency in using APR. Current competency is indicated by: successful completion of the approved BA and APR training modules ‘current’ Operational Skills Maintenance (OSM) status in the skills listed under BA and APR in OS5A Schedule of OSM skills and frequencies. Telemetry BA: Only qualified telemetry BA wearers are to wear and operate BA telemetry equipment. Qualified wearers are identified with a green rectangle located on the front of their helmet. Health & Safety Requirements Minimum levels of protective clothing The minimum level of protective clothing for personnel wearing: BA is: structural firefighting uniform, splash suit, or gas suit APR is: structural firefighting uniform (Level 2 PPE), wildfire uniform (Level 1 PPE), or protective coverall/overalls (including disposable). Note: APR is not to be used with splash suits or gas suits – BA must be worn with these. 33 4. Nominal Roll Tally Policy – G1-1 POP  Record: Appliance call sign, date, name (rank, employee number)  OIC of operational vehicles is responsible for ensuring this policy is carried out (taken to ICP at incident, that ones on board operational vehicles) OIC fire responsible that 1. Policy is followed at incidents 2. Nominal tally is collected when ICP established 3. Presence of non FENZ personnel are monitored Evacuation  All FENZ personnel shall report to the ICP.  Uplift their normal roll tallies.  Standby for further instructions. Non-FENZ personnel must report to the Control Point Officer at the ICP, be accounted for and standby for further instructions. Leaving the Incident Ground All crew OIC and individuals must uplift their normal roll tallies before leaving the incident round. 34 5. Private Fire Alarms – G1-2 OI Local Procedure Q: What factors should be considered at incidents involving private fire alarms? (OSM) Local Procedure will take into account:  Types of alarms (manual/automatic)  Position of appliances  Access when no keys are available  External search of building prior to key holder arrival  Searching the indicated area for any sign of Fire.  Evacuation Q: When can a private fire alarm be silenced? (OSM) Alarm Shut Off  The alarm will be shut off when the OIC Fire considers the evacuation is complete.  Where break-glass alarm cut-off switches are fitted, the glass will be broken and the switch operated to shut off the alarm.  Systems that have no external alarm cut-off switch will be left for the agent to reset, and the building management will be advised that FENZ is unable to shut off the alarm. Q: State the procedure when the alarm is a burglar alarm? (OSM) Burglar Alarms If the alarm is a burglar alarm and not a fire alarm:  The building will not be entered unless there is a visible sign of fire.  The police or security agent or building owner will be advised of the alarm. Q: If no fire is apparent, what actions must the OIC take? (OSM) Identifying Cause of Alarm When no fire is apparent, the OIC will ensure that the area indicated is thoroughly searched. 35 6. Forced Entry – G13 POP When to apply FENZ personnel may only carry out forced entry when it is:  As part of an incident, AND  Required so operational functions or duties may be carried out. Contacting the owner OIC fire will advise owner and/or occupier(s), their agent, or the police will be advised either: 1. Before forced entry, provided contact details are available and risk to life and property will not be increased by the delay OR 2. As soon as is practicable following a forced entry into any building or premises. Handover The OIC Fire will ensure handover follows the requirement of: M1 SOP Command and Control Procedure. This will include ensuring the requirements for security of the site are followed.. Liability Provided FENZ acts reasonably and in good faith, its liability for damage to property is limited under Section 161 Limitation of liability of FENZ Act 2017. 36 7. Emergency Medical Support Policy – G2-1 POP Policy Requirements When the injured or unwell person is a member of Fire and Emergency, the person in charge of the workplace is responsible for ensuring:  emergency medical support is provided, (e.g. first aid, visit o a doctor or an ambulance).  relevant people and agencies are notified  any required reporting is completed. See Report workplace safety, health or wellbeing event  the injured or unwell person is transported safely home or to a medical provider or hospital as needed  any relevant leave or workplace cover requirements are actioned Emergency Medical Support First Aid  First aid provided should follow the guidance in G2 TM First aid technical manual.  First aid provided in the operational environment is covered by the G2 POP Operational first aid policy. Notifications When the injured or unwell person is a member of FENZ, the person in charge of the workplace is responsible for:  Completing any required reporting. See Report workplace safety, health and wellbeing event.  Making sure the patient’s emergency contact person is contacted.  Notifying their workplace manager.  If the person has an operational role, notifying Comcen so senior officer notification can occur. Note: if the situation involves serious injury or significant harm, notifications will include WorkSafe NZ or another external agency. See Notifiable injury, illness, or incidents guide. Incident-Related Requirements During an incident, the OIC/IC is responsible for leading these actions. If… Responsibilities Emergency medical support is required for: OIC/IC ensures:  FENZ personnel  First aid is administered  The public  Comcen are advised to: - Request ambulance response if further treatment is required. - Make required notification from Comcen SOPs. 37 If… Responsibilities Incident is 3rd alarm or higher Comcen will notify ambulance and request a standby attendance Note: if there are injuries, the OIC/IC must request an ambulance response as stated above Incident lower than 3rd alarm, and the IC The OIC/IC will advise Comcen to notify ambulance and considers there is a significant risk of injury request a standby attendance Decontamination is required on people The OIC/IC will advise Comcen to request ambulance wearing: response.  No PPE Note: This will generally not include post-fire  Level 1 or 2 PPE decontamination unless deemed necessary for any reason by the OIC.  Compromised Level 3 or 4 PPE Concussion Protocols  If there is any possibility of a concussion (witnessed or not), arrange for an early medical assessment. Concussion will cause impairment, the OIC/IC or person in charge of the workplace is responsible for leading the actions listed: The injured person:  Shall not continue in any safety critical role.  Shall stand down and seek a medical assessment at the earliest opportunity (including a request for an ambulance response to an incident ground).  Shall always be accompanied and not drive a vehicle until a full concussion assessment has been done and they have been cleared. Additional Actions If the injured person leaves the workplace, they should be accompanied by a colleague or manager, where practicable.  If taken to hospital this may be until handover to the emergency contact person, or until they are discharged and returned home.  If going home, ensure they have travel home provided (including for their vehicle). 38 8. Deaths at Incidents – G3 OI (NCL 7) Purpose The purpose of this document is to ensure that:  Bodies found at incidents are treated with respect and dignity  Evidence is preserved  Appropriate information is recorded Notification  Comcen will notify the National Commander’s Group whenever there is a fire related death. Cultural Sensitivity Procedure (2006) Readiness  Liaison should be established with suitable persons from ethnic groups within communities to establish correct protocols should a member of that community die at an incident. During Incident Pending the arrival of police:  The body(s) and surrounding areas left undisturbed where possible.  Scene cordoned off and bodies screened from public view.  All information about the scene (people present at the time of arrival of the FENZ) must be noted and given to Police. Where possible and practical:  Treat body fluids as hazardous materials  Remove fluids with an absorbent material  Contaminated absorbent material should be contained in a non-permeable container and sent with the victim where possible or handed to Police or other appropriate person (undertaker / ambulance officer). If a situation requires that a body is moved before the Police arrive:  Enclose the body in a suitable wrapping and move it to a safe position.  Recover any articles that fall, or may have fallen, from the body and hand them to Police.  Note the original position of the body and other articles surrounding it and convey that information to Police. Hazard Identification & Control: Handling of Deceased Hazards Control Measures Significant Hazards: Contamination  All persons instructed in safe techniques for handling deceased persons. Other hazards: Strains & Critical incident stress  Wear PPE  Training in manual handling techniques.  Critical incidence stress debriefing. 39 9. Ventilation – G6 OI (This OI is under review) Q: What is the main reason for ventilating a structure? (OSM) Reduce damage caused by smoke and improve salvage operations. Requirements for Ventilation Local Procedures Local Procedures will take into account:  Authorisation of ventilation  Tactics  Crew safety  Use of PPV PPV Technical Manual When PPV is carried out, FNZ personnel will follow the procedures described in: the PPV Technical Manual Ventilation at Fires Procedure Operations Q: Who is responsible for allowing ventilation to be conducted? (OSM) Ventilation only be carried out on the instruction of the OIC Fire. Upon Arrival Q: What tactical issues should the OIC Fire consider before commencing ventilation? (OSM) Upon Arrival, the OIC Fire will assess the situation by gathering the following information:  If person is reported trapped in the building by fire, establish their location  Assess the size location and nature of the Fire.  Assess the suitability of inlet and outlet vents  Determine wind direction  Assess the potential fire spread Tactics Select the method of ventilation to be used:  Natural  Forced – Positive Pressure, Negative Pressure, Building Systems  Offensive / Defensive  Vertical / Horizontal 40 Q: State at least two factors that need to be considered in order to establish PPV ventilation for salvage? (OSM) To Establish Ventilation:  estimate the size of the compartment to be ventilated  create outlet and inlet vents (construct outlet vent first)  ensure that a continuous path is established and maintained before proceeding  if using positive pressure ventilation (PPV), ensure that the fan is positioned correctly - set up deliveries to cover the outlet vent and exposures - check that the number of outlet vents are adequate - establish communications between IC, PPV operator and BA crews - make all crews aware when ventilation is about to take place - check for backdraught/flashover conditions - consider withdrawing crews from inside of building - monitor size, spread and any changes in fire behaviour - monitor volume, colour, quantity and pressure of smoke  brief oncoming and relief crews. Hazard Identification & Control: Ventilation All hazards will be controlled by eliminating, isolating where elimination is impracticable, or minimising, using one or more of the control methods given: Q: Identify two significant hazards associated with ventilation? (OSM) Q: Identify at least two other hazards that are of concern once crews have entered a structure? (OSM) Q: List five control measures for hazards associated with ventilation? (OSM) Hazards Control Measures Significant Hazards:  Applying SPC  Backdraught  Pre-planning and risk assessment  Flashover  Structural firefighting uniform & B.A.  Usually hazards associated  All personnel under appropriate supervision with fire fighting  Briefing crews on the action plan (IAP or AAP) and on safety measures  All personnel trained in the methods, risks, and safe practices when carrying out ventilation: forced entry, natural ventilation, flashover/backdraught, PPV.  Be aware of exposures created by ventilation Once Structure Entered Significant Hazards: As above, As above, PLUS PLUS  Communications need to be established between OIC Fire, internal crews  Increased fire intensity and ventilation crews  Pushing fire into  Consideration of additional support for S&R crews compartments that are not exposed to fire 41 10.Decontamination – G7 SOP & POP Decontamination Policy FENZ’s decontamination responsibilities Q: Which agency is responsible for the decontamination of members of the public? (OSM)  FENZ is the agency responsible for decontamination of: Personnel from FENZ and other agencies (including NZ Defence Force first responders if required) members of the public (at the scene, hospitals, and ad hoc treatment sites). Entry into a hot zone Q: What must be in place before firefighters enter a hot zone? (OSM)  FENZ firefighters will only enter a hot zone at an incident when: preparations for emergency decontamination are in place, AND consideration has been given to requesting resources for deliberate decontamination. Medical priority Snap rescue and/or urgent life-saving medical treatment may be carried out at the OIC Fire’s discretion, provided:  dynamic risk assessment is carried out  the safe person concept is applied. Note: Usually casualties will be decontaminated before treatment. However, selected ambulance paramedics across NZ have been trained to provide medical support in decontamination corridors, and are equipped with splash suits and respirators. Contaminated person posing threat to safety Q: What other agency may be required to assist with the decontamination of a person who poses a threat to FENZ personnel? (OSM) When dealing with a contaminated person who:  poses a threat to the safety of FENZ personnel or any other person the Decontamination Officer will only carry out decontamination:  using the authority contained in s28 (4) (j) of the Fire service Act 1975 AND  with the assistance of the NZ Police, using the most appropriate and safe decontamination technique, which may include emergency decontamination Emergency decontamination – when time is a factor and poses an immediate risk. Q: When should Emergency Decontamination be used? (OSM) When there is a need to decontaminate before deliberate decontamination equipment can arrive e.g. medical emergency or life risk. 42 Deliberate decontamination Q: What factors must be present to allow a portable shower to be used for deliberate decontamination? (OSM) Portable shower – used only for BA wearers 1. Must be wearing BA with a Splash Suit or Gas Suit. 2. Other agency equivalent PPE 3. Provided the contaminates are water miscible and safely diluted and directed into a drain or sewer. Decontamination Corridor Used for one or more of the following:  Any person wearing permeable clothing (incl FENZ personnel wearing level 2s (structural firefighting))  Water-immiscible contaminants  Where there is a need to contain decontamination runoff. The decision as to whether the runoff needs to be contained or not, will be based on HAZCHEM or specialist advice available. Uncertainty regarding contaminants When there is uncertainty regarding the nature of any contaminants, FENZ personnel will:  use the corridor and contain run off unless information to the contrary is received. (This excludes emergency decontamination). Key roles Q: What are the OIC Fire’s responsibilities? (OSM) OIC fire responsible for 1. Ensuring FENZ personnel carry out decontamination during an incident follow the requirements of this policy. 2. Appoint decontamination officer a. Whenever corridor in use b. As required when corridor is not in use -- Q: What are the key responsibilities of the Decontamination Officer? (OSM) Decontamination office responsible for 1. Managing decontamination functions (reporting to fire logistics commander if appointed) 2. Reporting to the Fire Logistics Commander 3. Assigning tasks to personnel to assist in decon 4. Ensuring decontamination forms are completed as required 43 Q: What is the OIC HazMat/Command vehicle responsible for in relation to decontamination? (OSM) OIC HAZMAT responsible for 1. Ensure recommissioning of all decontamination equipment Q: What factors determine whether the decontamination corridor should be used? (OSM) Decontamination corridor – used for one or more of the following 1. Any person wearing permeable clothing 2. Contaminant is miscible in water 3. Where there is a need to contain runoff Q: Who’s advice should be sought to determine whether the run-off from a decontamination procedure should be contained? (OSM) Containment of run-off will be based on HAZCHEM or specialist advice. SOP Safety notes for decontamination procedures During all decontaminations:  carry out dynamic risk assessment and apply the safe person concept  process emergency service personnel separately from the public where practicable  preserve the modesty of people being decontaminated where practicable and safe  when decontaminating people who pose a threat to safety follow the requirements of G7 POP Decontamination policy  set up decontamination:  at the transition from the hot zone to the cold zone  as close to active operations as is safe and practicable. This may require extending the hot zone to provide a pathway to the decontamination facility  remove contaminated clothing that presents an immediate danger to life and health by its continued wearing prior to washing/showering  decontaminate all persons who have been (or are reasonably believed to have been) contaminated  whenever possible, seek medical advice before decontaminating people with injuries, unless they are likely to suffer further harm while waiting for the advice  commence preparation for emergency decontamination before committing firefighters to a hot zone Zones and Cordons Refer to Section 2 of the H1 TM Hazardous materials technical manual(HMT-tc) for information about incident zones and cordons. 44 Procedure Notes:  In this document, ‘Decontamination Officer’ may be the OIC Fire, or a delegated decontamination officer  The functions that are assigned to a Decontamination Officer are always required at an incident where decontamination is necessary. Decontamination Officer is a delegated role carried out in conjunction with other roles as described in section 4 of the Command and Control Technical Manual.  When the incident requires deployment of the corridor a Decontamination Officer must be appointed. Step 1 Deciding decontamination method Deciding decontamination method The Decontamination Officer: 1. Decides what type of decontamination is required, considering: When Use there is a need to decontaminate immediately, and specialist emergency decontamination. decontamination equipment will not be available soon enough or at all specialist decontamination equipment is available deliberate decontamination. 2. Identifies the substance (using DIM equipment where available and appropriate). 3. If deliberate decontamination equipment is available, determines whether the decontaminant risks require the use of the:  decontamination corridor (low-flow, warm water) or  portable shower (high-flow, cold water)  decontamination of boots and gloves only. Note: Specialist advice may be sought when making these decisions. However, circumstances may require a decision before this advice is available. Step 2 Establishing decontamination location Establishing decontamination location Once the hot zone has been defined, the Decontamination Officer: 1. Establishes the decontamination location. 2. Extends the hot zone tape from the hot zone to the decontamination location. 3. Ensures contaminated people are directed to the decontamination facility. 45 Step 3 Carrying out decontamination Note: the H1 TM Hazardous materials technical manual (HMT-tc) is held on all HazMat/Command vehicles. EITHER A. Boots and gloves only If FENZ personnel only require boots and gloves decontamination, the wearer, with assistance: 1. Scrubs boots and gloves until clean. 2. Washes hands until clean. Note: Contaminated level 2 (structural firefighting) PPE gloves and boots may need to be bagged and decontaminated/discarded. OR B. Full decontamination For all other decontamination situations, the people carrying out the decontamination: 1. Don:  emergency decontamination – BA with a minimum of level 2 (structural firefighting) PPE  deliberate decontamination– BA with level 3 (splash suit) PPE in the hot or warm zones 2. Decontaminate each contaminated person, following the processes described in the:  table on the next page  decontamination process flow diagram (Figure 5.11 from H1 TM HAZMAT technical manual)  detailed instructions and photos in Section 5 of H1 TM Hazardous materials technical manual. The Decontamination Officer: 3. Requests ambulance support for injured persons if required. 46 Step 4 Completing paperwork and arranging medical checks Paperwork and tracking The decontaminated person (or assigned FENZ personnel if person unable to do it themselves): 1. Completes the:  decontamination form G7a FM Significant hazard exposure decontamination record (or an equivalent record). The Decontamination Officer: 2. Ensures that all persons who have undergone decontamination and have completed a SHEP form are issued with wristbands (where available). Medical check The Decontamination Officer: 3. Ensures that everyone who has undergone decontamination:  has a medical check with ambulance personnel on site (apart from those FENZ personnel wearing non- compromised level 3 or 4 (splash or gas suit) PPE, and those only requiring decontamination of boots and gloves). 47 The

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