High Rise Manual PDF

PRDS VS. PRVS OVERVIEW HIGH-RISE OPERATIONS MANUAL SECTION TOPICS NFPA Standards Giacomini Pressure Reducing Valve PRD vs. PRV: What is the Difference? Urfa Pressure Reducing Valve Pressure Restricting Devices Zurn Pressure Reducing Valve Factory Pre-Set Non-Adjustable Pressure Reducing Valve...

PRDS VS. PRVS OVERVIEW HIGH-RISE OPERATIONS MANUAL SECTION TOPICS NFPA Standards Giacomini Pressure Reducing Valve PRD vs. PRV: What is the Difference? Urfa Pressure Reducing Valve Pressure Restricting Devices Zurn Pressure Reducing Valve Factory Pre-Set Non-Adjustable Pressure Reducing Valve SECTION OBJECTIVES Be able to define NFPA 101 Be able to define NFPA 14 Understand and explain the differences between PRDs and PRVs Understand what tools are needed to adjust various types of PRVs Understand how to identify and remove various types of PRDs Be able to identify and adjust a Giacomini PRV Understand the importance of identifying factory set non-adjustable PRVs early in the high-rise operation Be able to identify and adjust an Urfa PRV Understand what tactics to use when a factory pre-set non-adjustable PRV does not provide adequate pressure Be able to identify and adjust a Zurn PRV Second Edition 01/11/22 33 NFPA STANDARDS OVERVIEW To operate in the high-rise environment, firefighters need to have some background about how high rises are constructed. Just like anything else in the fire service, high-rise buildings are constructed to meet standards to ensure their safety for the occupants and first responders. NFPA 101 • Defines a high-rise as a building greater than 75 feet in height, where the building height is measured from the lowest level of fire department vehicle access to the highest occupied floor NFPA 14 • For buildings constructed pre-1993: Requires that these buildings’ standpipe systems provide 65 PSI of residual pressure at the most remote outlet from the fire pump, while flowing 500 GPM • Buildings constructed post-1993: Requires that these buildings’ standpipe systems provide 100 PSI of residual pressure at the most remote outlet from the fire pump, while flowing 500 GPM • Requires that excessive pressures in a standpipe system are to be reduced at the outlet to a manageable level o If the pressure at the outlet is less than 100 PSI, then no pressure reduction is required o Pressures between 100 PSI and 175 PSI require pressure restricting devices (PRD) ▪ Note: Pressure restricting devices only reduce pressure when flowing o Pressures over 175 PSI require pressure reducing valves ▪ Note: Pressure reducing valves reduce pressure in both static and flowing conditions CFD HIGH RISE DEFINITION • Any building that is 75 feet or greater in height or is out of reach of a CFD aerial or platform is considered a high-rise building. This is how CFD members have interpreted the definition of NFPA 101 over the years to apply to our division 5199 E. Broad Street—Mother Angeline McCrory Manor is a four-story high life hazard nursing home facility with no access for aerials/platforms on the south side and limited scrub area on the north side Second Edition 01/11/22 34 PRD VS. PRV: WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE? OVERVIEW The following chart provides an overview of common differences and characteristics of PRDs and PRVs. Pressure Restricting Devices (PRDs) Pressure Reducing Valves (PRVs) Used in standpipes with internal pressures from Used in standpipes with internal pressures 100-175 psi greater than 175 psi PRDs are external components that can be removed. PRDs are usually a device added onto the outside of the valve, or an insert placed into the mouth of the valve Pressure reducing valves have an internal mechanism built into the valve body that regulates outlet pressure. These internal components cannot be removed Reduces pressure in flowing conditions only Reduces pressure in static and flowing conditions Can usually be easily removed or defeated Are either factory preset non-adjustable valves, or are field adjustable Does not serve as a one-way check valve Most act as a one-way check valve that does not allow water to be back-fed into the standpipe A threaded stem inside the valve indicates the A smooth stem inside the valve indicates the valve is not a pressure reducing valve valve is a pressure reducing valve Some common PRDs include adjustable pins, Common PRVs include the factory pre-set nonremovable clips, orifice plates, and mechanical adjustable valves, Giacomini valves, Urfa valves, restricting devices and Zurn valves Does not provide a steady discharge pressure Can compensate for variations in inlet pressures because they cannot compensate for inlet (to a certain extent) by balancing water pressure pressure changes in an internal chamber, typically against a spring Click here to view Brass Tacks and Hard Facts video about types of standpipe outlet valves Click here to view Vector Solutions video on PRVs and PRDs In buildings that have PRVs on the standpipes, it is especially important for the pump operator of the FDC engine to know what pressure the building’s fire pump is providing to the building. If the fire pump fails and the FDC engine must take over supplying the building with water, the pump operator should supply the building with the pressure that would be required at the building’s top floor (Supplying the same pressure that the building fire pump was discharging should be adequate for this). If the pump operator supplies a lower pressure than the building’s fire pump did, the PRVs will not allow adequate pressure past them to provide the appropriate pressure needed by the fire attack teams. If the fire pump discharge pressure is not known, many FDC engine pump operators would likely try to figure up what pressure would be needed at the fire floor. Even if the fire floor is only part of the way up the building, (for instance, floor 20 in a 40-story building), the FDC engine pump operator should actually determine what pressure would be needed at the top floor and should then supply that pressure to the building. Doing so ensures that the appropriate amount of pressure will make it past the PRVs on the fire floor. Second Edition 01/11/22 35 PRESSURE RESTRICTING DEVICES OVERVIEW • Simple external device placed on or into a standpipe outlet valve • Many different designs including orifice plates, mechanical, or limiting devices • Reduce pressures in flowing conditions only • Used in standpipes with internal pressures from 100 – 175 psi • Typically not field adjustable, but can usually be easily broken off or removed ADJUSTABLE PIN DESIGN • Simple external device that is easily removed or broken • Limits the valve from being opened completely • Only reduces pressure during flowing conditions • Remove using an Allen wrench or break the flange using a Halligan • Once removed, the valve can be fully opened Use Allen wrench to loosen two set screws, then remove the device REMOVABLE CLIP DESIGN • Simple external device • Easily removed • Limits the valve from being opened completely • Reduces pressure during flowing conditions • Remove by pulling the clip out of the valve • Once removed, valve can be opened fully ORIFICE PLATE • Metal disk with a restricted opening, similar to a large metal washer • Located inside the threaded male outlet of the standpipe valve • Can cause damage to the inner lining of hoses • Does not provide a steady discharge pressure because it cannot compensate for inlet pressure changes • Pry it out with a small screwdriver, or pull it out with a pair of channel locks Second Edition 01/11/22 36 MECHANICAL PRESSURE RESTRICTING DEVICE • One-piece mechanical device designed to reduce outlet pressure • Similar in size to a double female adapter • Mostly found in older buildings • Has hose threads on both ends • Device threads onto the male outlet of the standpipe valve • Only reduces pressure during flowing conditions • Inside the device are overlapping holes that restrict the water flow through the device • Device can be manually adjusted by turning the external knob on the side of the device to set the overlapping holes in any position from fully closed to fully open (NOT RECOMMENDED) • Do not attempt to adjust the device. Simply remove it by unscrewing it from the standpipe outlet threads External knob used to adjust the device View inside the waterway of the device showing the overlapping holes Side view of a 2 ½” mechanical pressure restricting device Unscrew the device from the standpipe outlet threads Second Edition 01/11/22 37 FACTORY PRE-SET NON-ADJUSTABLE PRESSURE REDUCING VALVE IDENTIFICATION AND FEATURES • Pressure-reducing valve that has its pressure reducing characteristics pre-set at the factory during the manufacturing process • NON-ADJUSTABLE VALVE, the pressure cannot be changed on the fireground • Specifically designed to be installed on a certain floor of the building • If valve is installed on the wrong floor, it will result in inadequate pressure output • Early identification of these valves is vital to allow firefighters time to consider other water supply options if there is inadequate pressure at the valve • Valve is identified by a large ring at the top of the valve body; some may have a label on the valve indicating it is a pressure-reducing valve • Remove the cap from the outlet and look inside the valve. A smooth stem typically indicates a pressure-reducing valve; a threaded stem typically indicates a standard hose valve Note the large ring at the top of the valve body. This valve also has a label indicating it is a pressure reducing valve Photo on the left shows a valve with a threaded stem (standard control valve) and a valve with a smooth stem (pressure reducing valve) Note the small 3/8 inch waterway opening on this Powhatan pre-set PRV. This still provides adequate volume, but at a low pressure Factory pre-set valves leave much room for human error because the valve must be designed properly, assembled properly, installed properly, installed on the right floor, flow tested, and properly maintained to ensure proper operation. Those factors, combined with the fact that these valves are non-adjustable, make the factory pre-set valve the least desirable standpipe valve for firefighters to deal with. Second Edition 01/11/22 38 GIACOMINI PRESSURE REDUCING VALVE IDENTIFICATION AND FEATURES • Large valve with exposed adjustment barrel • Valve body made of casted bronze • Field adjustable • Adjustment instructions printed on valve body • 4 holes in adjustment barrel for adjustment rod usage • 2 ½ inch male outlet connection FIELD ADJUSTMENT Purpose • Allows firefighters to overcome valve installation or maintenance problems that cause inadequate pressure at the valve outlet Tools Required • 3/8” metal adjustment rod Adjustment Procedure • Insert 3/8” adjustment rod into exposed hole in adjustment barrel • Rotate adjustment rod clockwise to increase standpipe outlet pressure, or counterclockwise to decrease outlet pressure • Rotation of adjustment barrel requires 75 pounds of force • Numbers etched into the adjustment barrel refer to approximate PSI at zero flow. They do not correspond to flow under residual flow conditions Firefighters can use these numbers to approximate what the outlet pressure will be, but they will not be completely accurate since they correspond to zero flow Hole in adjustment barrel for adjustment rod use Labels on the valve provide instructions on how to adjust the valve pressure Second Edition 01/11/22 39 URFA PRESSURE REDUCING VALVE IDENTIFICATION AND FEATURES • Similar in appearance to Giacomini valve • Large field adjustable valve with adjustment barrel covered by Lexan anti-tamper shield • Adjustment instructions printed on anti-tamper shield • Holes in adjustment barrel for adjustment rod use • 2 ½ inch male outlet connection FIELD ADJUSTMENT Purpose • Allows firefighters to overcome valve installation or maintenance problems that cause inadequate pressure at the valve outlet Tools Required • T-handle 5/32” pin and hex security wrench • 3/8” adjustment rod • Straight screwdriver Weak point of Lexan shield Adjustment Procedure • Use pin and hex wrench to remove set screw, or break Lexan shield at its weak point with straight screwdriver if no pin and hex wrench is available • Uncover the adjustment holes by either sliding the Lexan shield up out of the way, or rotating the shield until the adjustment hole is accessible through the shield’s slot • Insert 3/8” adjustment rod into exposed hole in adjustment barrel • There are arrows on the Lexan shield showing which direction to turn to increase or decrease pressure Set screw located in shield slot • Rotation of adjustment barrel requires approximately 15 pounds of force Lexan shield lifted to expose adjustment hole Turn Lexan shield until adjustment hole is accessible through the slot in the shield. Insert adjustment rod. Rotate adjustment rod clockwise to increase pressure or counterclockwise to decrease pressure. Click here to view Brass Tacks and Hard Facts video on Urfa valve use and adjustment Second Edition 01/11/22 40 ZURN PRESSURE REDUCING VALVE IDENTIFICATION AND FEATURES • Large valve with a long stem • Hand wheel for opening and closing valve • Removable bonnet • 2 ½ inch outlet connection • Field adjustable FIELD ADJUSTMENT Purpose • Allows firefighters to overcome valve installation or maintenance problems that cause inadequate pressure at the valve outlet Tools Required • 18” pipe wrench • Ratchet with 1 1/16” deep well socket Adjustment Procedure • Open valve by turning hand wheel counter-clockwise • Loosen the upper coupling nut with the 18” pipe wrench • Remove the hand wheel assembly (bonnet) • Insert the 1 1/16” deep well socket onto the adjustment nut • Tighten the adjustment nut to increase the outlet pressure of the valve, or loosen the adjustment nut to decrease the outlet pressure of the valve Utilize 18 inch pipe wrench to loosen upper coupling nut Remove bonnet Utilize ratchet and 1 1/16 inch socket on adjustment nut. Tighten the adjustment nut to increase pressure, or loosen the nut to decrease pressure Firefighters and Incident Commanders with a limited understanding of pressure reducing valves tend to be the most uncomfortable with the Zurn pressure reducing valve due to the need to remove the valve’s bonnet for field adjustment. Proper preplanning and understanding of the valve allow for proper adjustment of the valve when necessary. Click here to view Youtube video on adjusting the Zurn PRV Second Edition 01/11/22 41 PAGE LEFT BLANK FOR DOUBLE SIDED PRINTING Second Edition 01/11/22 42 HIGH-RISE BUILDING OVERVIEW HIGH-RISE OPERATIONS MANUAL SECTION TOPICS First Generation High-Rises Third Generation High-Rises— Tubular Second Generation High-Rises Fourth Generation High-Rises Third Generation High-Rises SECTION OBJECTIVES Discuss and identify first generation high-rise building traits Discuss and identify third generation high-rise—tubular building traits Discuss and identify second generation high-rise building traits Discuss and identify fourth generation high-rise building traits Discuss and identify third generation high-rise building traits Second Edition 01/11/22 43 FIRST GENERATION HIGH-RISES OVERVIEW • First Generation high-rises were constructed from the 1860s-1920s • Consisted of extremely heavy load-bearing exterior walls • Constructed of brick or stone • Many buildings had cast iron facades • Many had unprotected cast iron columns and wrought iron beams • Floors during this time were constructed of wood and were generally the weak links for these types of buildings, which lead to many collapses • Vertical openings were generally unprotected (stairwells, elevators, and light wells) The Hayden Building (photo on left) located at 16 East Broad Street was completed in 1901. The building is 13 stories tall and is currently undergoing renovations from a developer. The Wyandotte Building (photo on right) located at 21 West Broad Street was completed in 1898; it is considered the city’s first skyscraper. The Monadnock Building (photo on left) in Chicago is 16 stories tall and is considered the tallest load bearing structure in the world. The walls at the base of the structure are up to six feet thick to handle the load of the entire building. The photo on the right shows an example of the wrought iron stairs that were often used inside these structures. Second Edition 01/11/22 44 SECOND GENERATION HIGH-RISES OVERVIEW • Second Generation high-rises were constructed during the 1930s-1940s • Also called Pre-World War II Construction • Start of protected steel frame construction • Began using fire resistive assemblies, shaft enclosures, more compartmentalization, and non-combustible materials • Masonry enclosures for all metal structural members • Vertical shafts were enclosed in masonry and tile • Floors were concrete over brick or hollow tile arches • Floor areas were small and subdivided due to a need for close access to natural light and ventilation 50 West Broad Street (photo below) was originally opened as the American Insurance Union Citadel and is now known as the LeVeque Tower. The 47-story building was completed in 1927 and was the fifth tallest building in the world at the time. 65 South Front Street was originally called the Ohio Departments Building; it is now called the Thomas J. Moyer Ohio Judicial Center. This 14-story high-rise serves as the home of the Ohio Supreme Court; a full architectural renovation was completed in 2004 restoring the building to much of its former glory. Second Edition 01/11/22 45 THIRD GENERATION HIGH-RISES OVERVIEW • Third Generation high-rises were constructed from 1945-1965 • Known as Post-World War II Construction • Lighter weight construction with fire resistive coating applied • Steel frame work with core type construction (Center Core) • Floors are made of corrugated metal with poured concrete over top • Exterior curtain walls of glass or some type of stone • The use of HVAC systems creates a sealed building • Ventilation of these types of high-rises is extremely difficult if not impossible, requiring the use of the HVAC system and positive pressure • The “Stack Effect” will play a major role in smoke movement 100 East Broad Street was completed in 1964, originally opening as Bank One Tower. The 25-story tower is now owned by Chase Banking Co. and is called the Chase Tower. The building utilizes a curtain wall facade system. 88 East Broad Street is the Key Bank Building. The building was completed in 1963 with a total of 20 floors, and it is currently the 23rd tallest building in Columbus. Second Edition 01/11/22 46 THIRD GENERATION HIGH-RISES-TUBULAR OVERVIEW • The ability to construct “super tall buildings” (100 stories and higher) began from 1965present as new construction styles and technologies became available • Examples of this construction style would be the Sears Tower in Chicago and the World Trade Center in New York City • The Sears Tower in Chicago, now known as the Willis Tower, is a bundled tubular construction • Columns run along the outside of the tube and connect back to the core • The strongest parts of the building are on the outside • The exterior framing of the buildings is designed to be strong enough to resist lateral loading, allowing the interior of the building to be framed for gravity loads An overview of the bundled tubular construction Second Edition 01/11/22 47 FOURTH GENERATION HIGH-RISES OVERVIEW • Fourth generation high-rises have begun and are considered Post 9/11 Construction (2001-present) • The Freedom Tower in New York City at the site of the World Trade Center is an example of this new style of high-rise • These buildings feature a more robust style of construction • The center core walls are reinforced concrete up to six feet thick • Movement away from light weight steel bar joist construction • Has more heavily fortified stairway and elevator enclosures designed to resist smoke, fires, explosions, and collapses, creating more refuge areas for occupants • Stayed Mast and Buttressed Core are two examples of these next generation construction styles Second Edition 01/11/22 48 HIGH-RISE OPERATIONS OVERVIEW HIGH-RISE OPERATIONS MANUAL SECTION TOPICS High-Rise Run Card Assignments RIT Group Fire Attack Group Medical Group Lobby Control/Systems Group Incident Command USE Group (Upper Search and Evacuation) SECTION OBJECTIVES Understand the difference between a FA “A”, “B,” and “High-Rise” response Discuss the equipment needs of USE Group personnel State which companies are dispatched on a report of a fire in a high-rise structure Discuss the equipment needs for RIT companies Identify the staffing used to compose the Fire Attack Group during day and night Understand command structure and locations State the equipment needed by the Fire Attack Group State the location of the CCP Explain the responsibilities of initial Lobby Control/System Group personnel Understand the requirements for working fire assignment companies upon arrival at a high-rise incident Second Edition 01/11/22 49 HIGH-RISE RUN CARD ASSIGNMENTS OVERVIEW Previous sections of this manual provided information about high-rise construction, building characteristics, and pressures available within standpipes depending on when they were constructed. This section will discuss the firefighters and equipment assigned to various high-rise emergencies. FIRE ALARM CLASSIFICATIONS Fire Alarm “A” (FA) Occupancies included in this category are single and double family residences, small apartment buildings, strip malls, small mercantile, and other occupancies not classified as high life hazard. • Consists of a single company response • The closest fire apparatus will be dispatched—either an engine, ladder, or rescue Fire Alarm “B” (FAB) High life hazard occupancies including multi-family apartments, hospitals, hotels, nursing homes, big box stores, warehouses, large industrial/manufacturing facilities, industrial complexes, schools, and churches. • 1 Engine, 1 Ladder, 1 Battalion Chief Fire Alarm “High-Rise” (FAH) Commercial and residential occupancies greater than six stories above ground. • 2 Engines, 1 Ladder, 1 Battalion Chief In 2016, the high-rise committee was tasked with updating the SOPs for the division. During this process, the initial response assignment and the working fire assignment were beefed up to better address the staffing needs of a high-rise operation. Several groups from the ICS system were identified as needing to be staffed during the initial phase of the fire. Those groups are the Fire Attack Group, the Use Group, Lobby Control/Systems Group, the RIT Group, the Medical Group, and the Incident Command staff. Second Edition 01/11/22 50 FIRE RESPONSE Report of a Fire in a High Rise 4 Engines High Rise Working Fire Assignment (Added to the initial Report of a Fire companies) 2 Ladders 2 Engines ES-2 1 Rescue and RS-10 2 Ladders ISU-19 1 EMSO Command-1 1 Medic SO-2 2 Battalion Chiefs 1 Medic 1 EMSO As companies arrive to a high-rise incident, the groups below will start taking shape. All crews should make their way to the building’s lobby area. The Groups will be formed based on arrival sequence. If the Incident Commander arrives first, the I/C can designate group formation. Each group has a specific function and specific tool complement that should be brought into the building. The initial companies dispatched to a report of a fire in a high-rise will form the following groups: GROUPS MAKEUP Fire Attack Group First two engines and first ladder Lobby Control/Systems Group Third engine USE Group Second ladder and first rescue RIT Group Fourth engine Medical Group First EMSO and first medic Command First two arriving chiefs Second Edition 01/11/22 51 FIRE ATTACK GROUP RESPONSIBILITIES • Seven firefighters to the fire area during daylight hours, an additional two firefighters available after 2000 hours • I/C will designate an Engine officer as in-charge of the Fire Attack Group • Ladder recons the fire area and designates the Attack and Evacuation stairwells • Ladder advises the engines on the location of the fire and the best point of access • Ladder searches the fire area while operating as members of the hose team • Ladder performs any forcible entry needed • Engine companies stretch the attack line and fight fire EQUIPMENT COMPLEMENT FOR ENGINE COMPANIES • High rise hose pack—50’ of 2 ½” and 100’ of 2” • 2 ½” smoothbore nozzle with 1 1/16” tip (No stream straighteners) • Forcible entry tools, 200’ rope, TIC, radios for all members • Small Status Boards (One for the lobby, one for the forward accountability point) o The second engine shall bring their small status board and place it near the standpipe hookup on the floor below the fire for forward accountability • Two passports—one for the lobby, one for the forward accountability point • Standpipe kit EQUIPMENT COMPLEMENT FOR LADDER COMPANIES • Pike poles, water can, and forcible entry tools, including the hydraulic FE tool • Ropes, TIC, radios for all members. Consider bringing the P-400 gas monitor • Two passports—one for the lobby, one for the forward accountability point Second Edition 01/11/22 52 LOBBY CONTROL/SYSTEMS GROUP RESPONSIBILITIES • The first company to arrive at the lobby shall place their small status board in the lobby • Establish accountability, collect passports, log crews and their destinations • Locate elevators and elevator keys • Recall elevators to the lobby • Assign a firefighter in full PPE to operate elevators and shuttle crews to the resource floor • Send a firefighter to the pump room to check if the pump is running and determine what the discharge pressure is. Report findings to the Lobby Control Group supervisor. This information should be passed on to the I/C and the FDC engine • Locate stairwell access and direct crews when needed • Locate the building engineer and maintain contact for technical expertise • Locate and distribute in house communications equipment • Locate and distribute any master keys as needed • Maintain and control all building systems when required • As the incident grows, Systems will be assigned to another company and will form its own Systems Group EQUIPMENT COMPLEMENT FOR LOBBY ENGINE • Shall bring their small status board to the lobby along with ICS 214 forms and pens/pencils. They should also obtain a large accountability board • Recommended Equipment o High rise hose pack—50’ of 2 ½” and 100’ of 2” o 2 ½” smoothbore nozzle with 1 1/16” tip (No stream straighteners) o Forcible entry tools, rope, TIC, multi-gas monitor, radios for all firefighters o Small status board, two passports o Standpipe kit Member checking the discharge pressure on a high zone pump Second Edition 01/11/22 53 USE GROUP—UPPER SEARCH/EVACUATION RESPONSIBILITIES • The USE Group’s primary function is Search and Rescue. The search order priority per SOP 02-0304.04 is as follows: 1. Attack Stairwell 2. Evacuation Stairwell 3. Floor Above the Fire 4. Top Floor 5. Elevators 6. Other Areas • Although SOP 02-03-04.04 states a specific order in which the USE Group will perform their search, a real high-rise incident will be a little more fluid. For instance, the Fire Attack Group should be checking the Attack Stairwell as they recon for entry onto the fire floor. Doing so frees up the USE Group to check the Evacuation Stairwell as they move to the floor above the fire. Once the floor above the fire is cleared, the USE Group will check the top floor, elevators, and other remaining areas • Use ropes, TIC, and wide-area search techniques • Advise command on conditions • Perform ventilation, forcible entry, and overhaul when needed • Remove victims to the CCP (Casualty Collection Point) at least two floors below the fire floor • Use the Evacuation stairwell that the fire attack group designated for ascension and victim removal EQUIPMENT COMPLEMENT FOR LADDER AND RESCUE • Forcible entry tools, including hydraulic FE tools • 200’ search rope, TIC, radios for all crew members • SOPs recommend using gas monitors for areas remote from the fire where hazardous gases may not be immediately obvious, such as stairwells and resource floors • Water can • Two passports (one for the lobby, one for forward accountability point) and small status boards Second Edition 01/11/22 54 RIT GROUP RESPONSIBILITIES • Stage on the floor below the fire • Bring all RIT equipment to that area • May be used as a replacement fire attack crew if needed • Bring all firefighting equipment as well • Perform all RIT functions until assigned differently • RIT Group will expand as the incident expands EQUIPMENT COMPLEMENT FOR RIT ENGINE • High rise hose pack—50’ of 2 ½” and 100’ of 2” • 2 ½” smoothbore nozzle with 1 1/16” tip (No stream straighteners) • Forcible entry tools, rope, TIC, radios for all firefighters • Two passports—one for the lobby, one for the forward accountability point • Standpipe kit • Pak Tracker • RIT pack and any special equipment needed for the incident Second Edition 01/11/22 55 MEDICAL GROUP RESPONSIBILITIES • EMS supervisor is in charge of the medical group • Victim care is the primary function for this group • Set up CCP (Casualty Collection Point) at least two floors below the fire floor • Medic can operate in the lobby or the CCP, two floors below the fire • When operating above the lobby, full PPE is required • When no victims are present, the medic unit can be detailed to the Lobby Control Group EQUIPMENT COMPLEMENT FOR MEDICAL GROUP • Full PPE and SCBA • All EMS equipment including the cot and monitor • EMS supervisor’s triage tags and victim accountability equipment • Two passports—one for the lobby, one for the forward accountability point Second Edition 01/11/22 56 INCIDENT COMMAND FIRST CHIEF (INCIDENT COMMANDER) • Fixed command on the exterior of the building (more desirable) or in the lobby • Overall Commander of the scene • Lays out the incident action plan • Assigns talk groups as the incident expands; IC has at least two radios • Has a large accountability board and a whiteboard for incident lay-out diagrams SECOND CHIEF (FORWARD AREA) • Full PPE and SCBA, large status board, at least two radios (Monitor B#IC and B#FG) • Reports to command post ready to go operate in a forward command area located on the floor below the fire • Supervises the fire and rescue operations in person, and serves as the eyes and ears of the IC THE WORKING FIRE ASSIGNMENT • Working fire crews can be used to backfill the original assignment • Crews can be used to form new groups (Resource, Stairwell Support, etc.) • Crews can be used to add more staffing to the original groups or divisions • I/C assigns crews based on the needs of the incident o Fire problem...IC assigns more crews to the Fire Attack Group. Rescue problem...IC assigns more crews to the USE Group • Equipment complements for working fire crews is the same as companies on the original assignment, plus any additional equipment requested by interior crews MULTIPLE ALARM COMPANIES • Assignments given by the Incident Commander • Stage in designated area; follow staging SOPs • Passports for when operating in a hazard zone Second Edition 01/11/22 57 PAGE LEFT BLANK FOR DOUBLE SIDED PRINTING Second Edition 01/11/22 58 GROUND FLOOR OPERATIONS HIGH-RISE OPERATIONS MANUAL SECTION TOPICS Fire Attack Group Formation Alternate Options for an OOS FDC Elevator Discipline Medical Group Operations Lobby Control/Systems Operations Driver Duties/FDC Procedures Command Location Digital Vehicular Repeater System SECTION OBJECTIVES Describe the initial actions taken by the Fire Attack Group Explain how to properly hook up to an FDC Identify the basics of Phase I and Phase II elevator operations State the appropriate steps to properly pump the FDC State the procedures for elevator use at a high-rise incident Identify when the engine is actually pumping water into the system, as opposed to the building’s fire pump Explain the importance of and steps for maintaining control of building systems when required State trouble-shooting techniques for issues with the FDC Understand the driver/operator duties of the first two arriving engines Understand the pros and cons of different command post locations Second Edition 01/11/22 59 FIRE ATTACK GROUP FORMATION ACTIONS • Begin assembling crews for the Fire Attack Group o First two engines and first ladder o Carry all necessary equipment inside o Gather crews near the elevators to be used • Locate the Fire Control Room (Annunciator panel area) o Determine the exact location and floor of the fire or alarm o Retrieve keys and swipe cards for all areas o Fire department handsets may be available for use; distribute them to Group Supervisors • Once the fire floor is determined, decide if it is within walking distance o If the fire floor is five floors or less, crews should use the stairs o If elevators do not have firefighter recall service, crews will use the stairs o Elevator discipline will be covered later in this manual If the fire is out of walking distance and the elevators have firefighter service, use them. Second Edition 01/11/22 60 ELEVATOR DISCIPLINE ELEVATOR PHASES Phase I • Phase I recalls all the cars to the lobby area or the floor of egress—whichever is indicated on the call panel • Phase I is activated in the elevator lobby area or in the Fire Control Room • Once Phase I is activated, any call the elevator is on will be cancelled. The elevator will return to the lobby, and the doors will open. This allows for accountability of elevators and those located within the car Phase II • Phase II allows firefighters to completely control the elevator car; this phase is activated from within the elevator car (Utilizing the same key which initiated Phase I) • During Phase II operation, the following occur: o The doors do not automatically open or close o Opening and closing will require firefighters to operate the door controls manually o Most of the time, firefighters can close the doors then select their floor of travel o In some instances, to select a floor both the floor number and the door close button may need to be held simultaneously until the doors close and the car starts moving o To open the doors, hold the door open button until the doors are completely open; otherwise, they will reclose Click here to view Vector Solutions video on Elevator Fire Service Modes Second Edition 01/11/22 61 SAFETY STOPS • During operations, safety stops need to be used o The first stop is the second floor. This lets the operators know the call button works; the doors should remain closed unless the operator opens them • Press and hold the door open button, then release it before the doors are completely open. The doors should open then automatically close o This tells firefighters that they are in control of the door functions, and Phase II is working as designed • Next, begin moving up. Stop every five floors to repeat the door checks; these ensure that firefighters are still in control of the elevator. Visualize the shaft way, checking for water or smoke in the shaft • The final stop will be two floors below the fire floor. Locate the stairs and walk up from there • Note—If the Phase II firefighter helmet light in the car is flashing, that means there has been a fire alarm activation/sprinkler activation in the shaft way or in the elevator control room. Do not use the elevator if this occurs ELEVATOR GUIDELINES • Do not overload the cars; four to six firefighters are generally all the car can hold • Do not use an elevator if there is no firefighter service or recall function • Do not use freight elevators unless they have firefighter service and you are familiar with the building’s trash collection and removal policy o Typically, trash is collected near the freight elevator lobby; this is a common location for fires to start • Do not strand the elevator keys in the car; next arriving crews will need them o Using the car hold feature will keep the car and the keys on the floor firefighters exited on o Instead, leave the keys in the car’s key slot and turn Phase II to the off position o Doing so allows Phase I to kick in and recall the car to the lobby for the next arriving crews to use o Continue this technique until Lobby Control is established. At that point, a firefighter from the Lobby Control Group will shuttle crews back and forth from the lobby to the resource floor ● Stop the elevator at least two floors below the fire or floor of alarm ● Firefighters should back into the elevator cars when loading ○ This will keep members from having to spin around in tight quarters while carrying hose packs and hand tools ● Choose an elevator that does not service the fire floor if possible ○ Buildings with multiple elevator zones will have elevators that do not go to the fire floor, but will go to within walking distance of the fire floor ○ This technique could make it safer to use elevators during the fire because it eliminates the chance of the car malfunctioning and going directly to the fire floor Second Edition 01/11/22 62 LOBBY CONTROL/SYSTEMS OPERATIONS ACTIONS ● The third engine is responsible for Lobby Control. Some of Lobby Control’s functions may have been performed by the Fire Attack Group already ○ Annunciator panel, keys, and elevator recall are likely already done ○ Pick up from wherever the Fire Attack Group left off ● Establish lobby accountability and collect one passport from each crew entering the building ● Assign a firefighter to operate the elevator and shuttle crews to the resource floor two floors below the fire. This firefighter should be in full PPE and SCBA ● Send a firefighter to the pump room to check if the fire pump is running and determine what the discharge pressure is. Report these findings to the Lobby Control Group supervisor ○ This is a critical job. The pump operator on the FDC will need this information in case the building fire pump fails or there are any low-pressure situations ○ Take forcible entry tools and radios. The fire pump room is likely locked and in an area remote from the lobby ● Locate the stairwell access and direct crews when needed ○ Although it seems simple, many stairwells are hidden by decorative features not easily found by crews not familiar with the building. (Look for exit signs) ● Locate the building engineer and maintain contact for technical expertise ● Locate and distribute in house communications equipment ○ These will be important as radio traffic increases on the fire ground ○ Group supervisors should get a handset ● Locate and distribute any master keys. Group supervisors should get a set of keys ● Maintain and control all building systems when required; the building engineer will be able to help with this ○ Control HVAC, electrical shut offs, and gas shut offs. Also control backup generators, fire protection systems, and building communication systems ● As the incident grows, lobby control/systems will be split apart into two groups ○ One company will concentrate on accountability, elevators, and crew assignments ○ One company will be devoted to building systems and communications using the PA and in-house fire phones Second Edition 01/11/22 63 DRIVER DUTIES/FDC PROCEDURES DRIVER RESPONSIBILITIES • Upon arrival to the scene, all crew members will be heading inside except the drivers of the Fire Attack Group’s apparatus • The ladder driver will be guided by the scene size-up ○ If the fire is in reach of the aerial, set it up for fire attack/rescue ○ If rescues can be made, set it up for rescue ○ If the aerial will not be used, don PPE and join the crew (only if your company officer directs you to do so) ○ Ladder driver may also be used as manpower for equipment shuttling • Engine drivers will be responsible for locating the FDC and the nearest hydrant • One engine will connect to the hydrant ○ Connect with the short section of 5” to the intake ○ Connect two 3” lines between the engines ○ Series pump to the engine on the FDC. Series pumping shares the pressure load between the two trucks ○ CFD engines have the intake relief valve for the pump set at 180 PSI; any pressure above 180 PSI will be released to the ground (See the Engine Operations Manual for more information about intake relief valves) • One engine will make a physical hookup to the FDC ○ If a two-stage pump is on the scene, it should be connected to the FDC ○ Place the pump in “Pressure Mode” at the transfer valve ○ Use the two 100’ sections of high-pressure hose carried on the engine ○ Connect one high pressure hose to the right rear discharge, and the other to the officer’s side 3” discharge. Doing so keeps the hose away from the driver ○ Remove any Storz adaptors from the engine outlets and connect the high-pressure hose to the engine using the NST threads on the hose. This is a much safer connection during high pressure pumping operations Click here to view Vector Solutions video on FDC connections Second Edition 01/11/22 64 CONNECTING TO THE FDC • The engine driver on the FDC has to inspect the FDC prior to hook up and use • Having a driver’s FDC bag with the following tools helps with hookup and troubleshooting: (2) Spanner wrenches Slotted screwdriver (2) 2.5” Double males (2) 2.5” Double females Knox cap key Wire brush (2) Spare 2.5” Hose Gaskets McGill forceps or needle nose pliers 18” Pipe wrench • • • • Remove the FDC plugs and inspect the female swivel ○ If the swivel is frozen in place, use a double male attached to a double female to create a new swivel ○ If there are Knox Locks, use the Knox Key to remove them ○ Check the condition of the gaskets. If they are damaged or missing, replace them ○ Look for debris inside the FDC and use the McGill forceps or needle nose pliers to remove any that is found ○ Some FDCs have multiple zones and multiple inlets to deliver water to the system. If there are more than two inlets on the FDC, remove all the plugs prior to pumping water. If firefighters deliver water to two inlets and later decide to supply additional FDC inlets, failing to remove all the plugs initially can cause the remaining plugs to have pressure on them and be dangerous or impossible to remove as a result Make all hose connections spanner tight. There is nothing worse than a high-pressure water leak that cannot be tightened due to pressure Once everything is connected and tight, fill the FDC lines with water and remain at idle pressure Inform the I/C that lines are charged and hydrant supply is established Second Edition 01/11/22 65 PUMPING THE FDC • After all connections are made and the lines are charged, remain at idle. The building’s system is designed to handle the fire protection workload o The FDC engine is there as a backup to the building’s system o Do not pump into the FDC unless the building’s system is inadequate o If it is a dry system (parking garage), start pumping right away o Generic pump discharge pressure required for a dry system is the high-rise hose pack operating pressure + elevation + appliances • Once Fire Attack Group crews reach the floor below the fire, make the hose connection, and flow their hose line, they will know if the building’s system is adequate for fire attack • If the system is functioning as designed, the FDC engine should standby at idle while recirculating water to dissipate heat in the pump • If the system pressure is lacking or the crews request higher pressures, that is the time for the FDC engine to increase pump pressure • To take over the pumping duties from the building’s fire pump, the FDC engine will have to pump higher than the building’s system pressure o The system pressure is the discharge pressure of the building’s fire pump while running. This number is different for every building due to building height and age o Pre-1993 buildings require 65 PSI residual pressure at the most remote outlet from the building’s fire pump while flowing 500 GPM o Post-1993 buildings require 100 PSI residual pressure at the most remote outlet from the building’s fire pump while flowing 500 GPM • Using the standards listed above, the system designer calculates what the pump pressure needs to be based on the building height and the year constructed • To know what the building’s system pressure is, some detective work must be done o Building pre-plans are the best way to gain this knowledge. Go to the pump room under non-emergency conditions and determine what the pressure is • During high rise fire operations, send a member from the Lobby Control Group to the pump room to check if the building’s fire pump is running and determine what the discharge pressure is In buildings that have PRVs on the standpipes, it is especially important for the pump operator of the FDC engine to know what pressure the building’s fire pump is providing to the building. If the fire pump fails and the FDC engine must take over supplying the building with water, the pump operator should supply the building with the pressure that would be required at the building’s top floor (Supplying the same pressure that the building fire pump was discharging should be adequate for this). If the pump operator supplies a lower pressure than the building’s fire pump did, the PRVs will not allow adequate pressure past them to provide the appropriate pressure needed by the fire attack teams. If the fire pump discharge pressure is not known, many FDC engine pump operators would likely try to figure up what pressure would be needed at the fire floor. Even if the fire floor is only part of the way up the building, (for instance, floor 20 in a 40story building), the FDC engine pump operator should actually determine what pressure would be needed at the top floor and should then supply that pressure to the building. Doing so ensures that the appropriate amount of pressure will make it past the PRVs on the fire floor. Click here to view Vector Solutions video on the Fire Pump Room Second Edition 01/11/22 66 DETERMINING FIRE PUMP PRESSURE USING ENGINE’S PUMP PANEL • Using the right rear discharge, the pump operator can slowly increase pressure until they see flow in the red numbers on the outlet gauge (photo on the right) • Assuming the flowmeter is working and calibrated properly, the meter will begin reading flow once the engine’s pump discharge pressure begins overcoming the building’s fire pump pressure ○ This indicates to the pump operator that they have overcome the clapper valve on the FDC inlet to the building’s system and have started moving water into the building • If the flow meter portion of the gauge does not work, the pump operator can slowly increase pressure until they see a residual pressure drop on their master intake gauge ○ This indicates to the pump operator that they have overcome the clapper valve on the FDC inlet to the building’s system and have started moving water into the building • Now that the pump operator has determined the pump pressure for the FDC, it is important to consider a few facts about fire protection systems: o When firefighters pump into the FDC, they are not adding to what the building’s fire pump is discharging. Instead, once firefighters introduce water to the building, they are the sole source of water for that system o The reason this occurs is that opening the FDC’s internal clappers to deliver water also closes a clapper near the fire pump o This prevents the building’s water supply from contaminating the domestic water system o If crews upstairs call for more pressure, the FDC pump operator will need to pump the building's system pressure plus whatever additional pressure the crews are asking for The image on the left shows a generic schematic of an FDC and how firefighters can take control of the system via the check valves/clappers Second Edition 01/11/22 67 ALTERNATE OPTIONS FOR AN OOS FDC OVERVIEW • If the FDC is damaged, missing, or fails during use, alternate methods of delivering water to the building are listed below: o Using a first-floor standpipe outlet as an inlet o Supplying through a test head discharge o Using an elevated waterway o Performing a well stretch USING A FIRST FLOOR STANDPIPE OUTLET AS AN INLET • Attach a large gated wye to the standpipe outlet and connect the high pressure FDC hose to the wye • If the standpipe outlet has a PRV (Pressure Reducing Valve), this option will not work. PRVs have one-way check valves that will not allow water to flow into the standpipe SUPPLYING THROUGH A TEST HEAD DISCHARGE • This option consists of supplying water through the connection used to test the building’s fire pump annually. Firefighters can tell the difference between a test head discharge and an FDC by looking at the threads. A test head discharge will have exposed male threads, while an FDC is female • To use this method, the pump operator will connect their high pressure FDC hoses to the pump test head outlets. Double female adapters will be needed to connect the male end of the high pressure hose to the male test head discharges • A firefighter will need to go to the fire pump room. There will be a closed OS&Y valve on the discharge side of the fire pump that leads to the test head discharges. A firefighter must open this valve; doing so allows water to supply the system through the test head discharges the same as if it were an FDC Second Edition 01/11/22 68 USING AN ELEVATED WATERWAY • An aerial ladder or platform can be used as an elevated waterway • The fire must be within reach of the aerial device • This option is only used if no victim rescue is required from the exterior PERFORMING A WELL STRETCH • Stretch a supply line up an internal stairwell • Tie off the line to keep it from falling to the bottom of the stairwell when charged • Attach an appliance to the supply line • Stretch the high-rise hose pack from the appliance Click here to view Brass Tacks video on overcoming problems connecting to the FDC Second Edition 01/11/22 69 MEDICAL GROUP OPERATIONS FIRST MEDIC CREW TO ARRIVE • If no victims are present or expected, the first arriving medic may be utilized to assist the Lobby Control Group • Bring all EMS equipment to the lobby area • Be sure to wear full PPE and SCBA. If the medic crew arrives at the lobby in just their fatigue uniforms, EMS is all they will be able to perform. Having full PPE and SCBA makes the medic crew versatile. Medic crews can be assigned to a forward area and will need their full PPE and SCBA • Prepare for victim treatment or assignment to the Lobby Control Group FIRST EMS SUPERVISOR TO ARRIVE • Report to the IC and establish the Medical Group/Branch • The Medical Group should be established at any high-rise incident where the medical triage, treatment, or transport needs exceed the span-of-control of the IC • Manage all aspects of EMS/victim care for the IC • Be sure to have full PPE and SCBA. EMS Supervisors can be assigned to a forward area and will need their full PPE and SCBA • Bring all appropriate EMS equipment into the lobby area o Triage tags o EMS Supervisor drug bag o Lucas device • A separate triage and treatment area shall be set up at ground level Second Edition 01/11/22 70 COMMAND LOCATION FIRST ARRIVING BATTALION CHIEF • Takes Fixed Command of the incident • Command post location is flexible. An exterior command is desirable, but it is the I/C’s choice Lobby Command • Gives the I/C the ability to have face-to-face communication with crews as they enter • Provides direct access to building engineers if available • Allows access to the building’s in-house communication equipment if needed due to portable radio problems • A drawback of the lobby command post is the I/C cannot see the exterior of the building to size up progress Second Edition 01/11/22 71 Exterior Command (Rear of the Battalion Chief Vehicle) • Allows the I/C to visualize the exterior • Keeps the I/C remote from the lobby chaos and noise • Gives the I/C access to the command board and multiple base radios for communication Communication is difficult at any fire, but high-rise buildings are even more challenging since radios may not work. The next page will discuss the Digital Vehicular Repeater System carried on Battalion Chief and SO-2 vehicles. The DVRS is an option that can help firefighters overcome some of the communication difficulties presented during high-rise operations. Second Edition 01/11/22 72