High Rise Manual PDF

HIGH-RISE COMPANY OPERATIONS A MANUAL FOR THE CFD FIREFIGHTER SECOND EDITION Second Edition 01/11/22 Second Edition 01/11/22 HIGH-RISE OPERATIONS PREPARING FOR HIGH-RISE FIRES High-Rise firefighting is considered one of the most challenging operations we can do as firefighters. The operation...

HIGH-RISE COMPANY OPERATIONS A MANUAL FOR THE CFD FIREFIGHTER SECOND EDITION Second Edition 01/11/22 Second Edition 01/11/22 HIGH-RISE OPERATIONS PREPARING FOR HIGH-RISE FIRES High-Rise firefighting is considered one of the most challenging operations we can do as firefighters. The operation does not take place at ground level; it happens 5, 10, or even 20 stories above the ground. Because of this, we cannot apply two-and-a-half story wood frame residential strategies and tactics to this type of incident. When I joined the Division in 1987, that is exactly what was going on. Our High-Rise packs consisted of 100’ of 1 1/2” hose with an Akron combination nozzle, and our standpipe bags had a few miscellaneous fittings. We had nothing to combat pressure reducing valves; honestly, we did not even know what those were. To say we have come a long way in 30+ years would be an understatement. The transition into where we are now is due to the passion and hard work of a few dedicated firefighters and officers. Without their drive, knowledge, and passion, we might still be going “Bear hunting with a B.B. gun” as retired Firefighter Dave Karn used to say. Some of these dedicated firefighters I speak of have retired, some lost their battle with cancer, and some are still with the Division making a difference every day. Assistant Chief Dan Vincent, deceased Chief Mark Devine, retired Captain Greg Lash, retired Lieutenant Bob Cloud, deceased Firefighter Dave Karn, retired Assistant Chief Dave Baugh, active Fire Prevention Battalion Chief Mike Windon, active Batt 4, 2 unit Lieutenant Steve Robertson, active E18, 3 unit Lieutenant Bill Ross, active L2, 2 unit Lieutenant Jeff Cordle, active E8, 2 unit Lieutenant Stuart Mack, active E28, 2 unit Lieutenant Nick Bernardo, active RO, 3 unit Firefighter Steve Koslow, active E12, 3 unit Second Edition 01/11/22 I would be remiss if I did not thank all the firefighters and officers that help teach the in-service training and recruit training. Without them we could not deliver the high-rise program to the entire division and to the 80-plus recruits we see every year. Thank you! This manual was created to help guide Columbus Firefighters in their path to a better understanding of High-Rise Operations as they progress through their apprenticeship training. However, this book is not limited to apprenticeship training; it has been designed as a reference material for all members of the department. The information within this manual has been gathered from past experiences, manufacturer manuals, calculations, and previous training. The most important of these sources are the experiences shared by members of the Columbus Fire Department (CFD). Their successes and failures have been used to construct this manual to give all CFD members a better understanding of their role in High-Rise Firefighting and Standpipe Operations. “Experience is something you get 10 minutes after you needed it.” Capt. Greg Lash CFD standard operating procedures (SOPs) pertaining to a fire company’s actions during HighRise and Standpipe Operations are very important, and you should familiarize yourselves with these SOPs. They are a guideline to aid your initial actions and help you work with other companies during an emergency response. It is important to understand that SOPs should be followed whenever possible. However, it is impossible to create an SOP for every situation you will encounter on this job. Some decisions must be guided by experience and what the situation presents to you. In the first section of this manual, you will find experiences shared by current and retired CFD members. These stories have been shared to allow you to learn from their experiences, good or bad, and to help you make your own decisions when the time comes. The fire service is an experience-based job; unfortunately, there is no substitute for experience. We should pay close attention to what others have learned as we strive to work hard and train day in and day out. The second section will cover the tools and equipment carried on engines and ladders that are vital to the success of any operation. The equipment section is designed to help you become more familiar with your tool capabilities and limitations. CFD provides us with a great complement of resources and equipment. It is our responsibility to be proficient in their uses and capabilities. The third section will cover various PRVs and PRDs and their differences. The One Meridian Plaza fire in Philadelphia illustrated how dangerous and detrimental these devices can be to our firefighting operations inside High-Rise buildings. Knowing how to defeat and troubleshoot these devices is essential to a successful operation during these low frequency, high risk events. The fourth section of this manual will discuss High-Rise building construction and its evolution from the late 1800s to the buildings we are seeing built today. The focus of this section will be on describing the changes through the years and how those changes affect operations inside these buildings when they are on fire. Second Edition 01/11/22 The fifth and subsequent sections of this manual will discuss the operations that are conducted at High-Rise and standpipe equipped buildings. We will start on the ground floor and work our way up into the building, forming our groups, identifying firefighters’ roles, and explaining the operations that take place to bring a High-Rise fire under control. The final section of the manual will contain both hands-on skill sheets and teach-back topics. These skills are not just for apprentice firefighters, but for the veteran firefighter as well. Because High-Rise fires are a low frequency, high risk event, the skills required need to be practiced often to the point of becoming a habit. In the words of Captain Greg Lash: “Amateurs practice till they get it right; professionals practice till they can’t get it wrong.” This is the mindset we need to have. As you transition from an apprentice to an experienced firefighter, you will be called upon to teach the next generation of firefighters what you have learned along the way. Doing live teachbacks to coworkers will prepare you for the next step in your career: giving back to others. “Cui multum datum est, multum sperandum-To whom much is given, much is expected.” Take the time to prepare and present a lesson to your station crew. This will be an opportunity for you to practice your skills, and for your crew to review materials and tools they have not practiced with recently. It will also let everyone know that you care and are invested in your career and in the CFD. Finally, we want you to understand that this manual is not written in stone. It can and will be changed as our department continues to learn new ideas and techniques. If there is something you do not understand, ask. The greatest thing about CFD is the amazing people that work for it. Our membership is our most valuable resource. Please pass on what you have learned, as this is the life blood of the fire service. Respectfully, Lt. Bill Ross Second Edition 01/11/22 TABLE OF CONTENTS EXPERIENCE • • • State Highway Patrol Fire - Lt. Bill Ross AT&T Building Fire - Lt. Tim Wyckoff Royal York Apartments Fire - Lt. Shawn McConnell 2 4 7 EQUIPMENT • • • • • • • • Pump Operator’s FDC Bag 2 ½” High Pressure FDC Hose High-Rise Standpipe Bag High-Rise Hose Pack High-Rise Hose Pack Nozzles High-Rise Pack Building Procedures Elkhart Brass R.A.M. XD Mercury Quick Attack Monitor/MQA 12 14 15 19 20 22 31 32 PRDS VS. PRVS • • • • • • • NFPA Standards PRD vs. PRV: What is the Difference? Pressure Restricting Devices Factory Pre-Set Non-Adjustable Pressure Reducing Valve Giacomini Pressure Reducing Valve Urfa Pressure Reducing Valve Zurn Pressure Reducing Valve 34 35 36 38 39 40 41 HIGH-RISE BUILDING OVERVIEW • • • • • First Generation High-Rises Second Generation High-Rises Third Generation High-Rises Third Generation High-Rises—Tubular Fourth Generation High-Rises Second Edition 01/11/22 44 45 46 47 48 HIGH-RISE OPERATIONS OVERVIEW • • • • • • • High-Rise Run Card Assignments Fire Attack Group Lobby Control/Systems Group USE Group (Upper Search and Evacuation) RIT Group Medical Group Incident Command 50 52 53 54 55 56 57 GROUND FLOOR OPERATIONS • • • • • • • • Fire Attack Group Formation Elevator Discipline Lobby Control/Systems Operations Driver Duties/FDC Procedures Alternate Options for an OOS FDC Medical Group Operations Command Location Digital Vehicular Repeater System 60 61 63 64 68 70 71 73 ABOVE THE GROUND FLOOR • • • • • • • Arriving at the Resource Floor The Floor Below the Fire The Hose Stretch The Control Firefighter The Hose Advance 2 ½” Hose Line Options The Fire Floor and Floors Above 76 77 79 80 84 85 87 CONSIDERATIONS WHEN OPERATING IN HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS • • • • • • • The Stack Effect - Curtis S.D. Massey Stairwell Designs Fire Control Room Fire Pump Room Standpipe Systems Elevator Control Room Backup Generators Second Edition 01/11/22 90 99 102 106 109 113 114 TEACH-BACKS AND HANDS-ON SKILLS • • • • • • TB 1 - Building the Perfect Hose Pack TB 2 - Defeating PRVs and PRDs TB 3 - High-Rise Groups HO 1 - Stretching the High-Rise Pack HO 2 - Operating as the Control Firefighter HO 3 - Fire Department Connections ACKNOWLEDGMENTS Second Edition 01/11/22 116 117 118 119 120 121 EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW HIGH-RISE OPERATIONS MANUAL SECTION TOPICS State Highway Patrol Fire Lt. Bill Ross Royal York Apartments – 1445 E. Broad St. - Lt. Shawn McConnell 111 N. 4th St. - AT&T Building Fire Lt. Tim Wyckoff SECTION OBJECTIVES This section is designed to share past Columbus Fire experiences with you; good, bad, or indifferent. The objective of this section is for you to read through the material to help better yourself as you progress through the early stages of your career and work toward becoming a well-rounded firefighter. Second Edition 01/11/22 1 STATE HIGHWAY PATROL FIRE By Lt. Bill Ross It was the last night on company for Lt. Bob Cloud; he was retiring the next day. Sometime after 2000 hours, the tones went off in Station 2. As we were heading to the trucks, the dispatcher said the address: 240 Parsons Avenue, State Highway Patrol Building, on a report of a fire with multiple calls. This was a strong indication that there would be a fire when we arrived. E-3 was on the east side of the station and made it out first, with L-2, R-2, E-2, and Batt-1 close behind. On my arrival, we circled the building and gave a run-down of a working fire on the top floor of a six-story heavy timber construction building. Due to the type of building and the size of the fire present, the Chief called for a second alarm. The building was being renovated and was soon to become the Columbus Health Department. Because of these renovations, some of the building's systems were out of service at the time of the fire, including the standpipe system. The building was built in the 1890s and was the former State Highway Patrol building. Since it was a state building, CFD did not conduct building inspections or do walk-throughs. The layout was learned on the fly. As E-3 crew worked through the building from north to south looking for the stairwell, we were advised that the FDC and stand-pipe system were down. My thought at that point was to find the stairs and ascend to the fifth floor, unpack our high-rise pack, and stretch it back down the stairs to be pieced in from the next arriving companies. Our high-rise pack consisted of 100’ of 2 ½” hose, SB nozzle with stacked tips, and a stand-pipe bag that we no longer needed since the stand-pipe was out of service. Station 2’s crews had been given many different assignments upon arrival. E-2 and L-2 were directed to the rear to begin fire attack, and R-2 was assigned to search. We had to wait for additional companies to arrive to complete our stretch and put water on the fire. This is where it got interesting. None of the incoming crews heard our request to piece in the line we had stretched in the stairwell, or they already had a plan of their own and were executing that. Needless to say, our line was not completed until well into the fire. I watched two different companies bring 1 ¾” line up an aerial ladder into the window, up the rest of the stairs, and into the fire area only to be driven out due to the extreme fire conditions. By this time our SCBAs had been breathed down to the alarm bell, and we retreated to the resource floor for new cylinders. I met BN-3 Chief Devine on the resource floor and talked to him about getting the 2 ½” line pieced in; he said he would make it happen. By the time that line was completed the fire was beyond hand line control; crews were then backed out and ladder pipes were used for the knock down. The fire progressed into the next morning with a call-in of the next unit coming on duty. The lessons learned from this operation are as follows: 1. Make sure everyone is on the same page. We were thinking high-rise operations, and other companies were thinking residential hand line tactics. Second Edition 01/11/22 2 2. Based on our current SOPs, E-3, E-2, and L-2 should have teamed up to form the Fire Attack Group. We would have had plenty of hose to make the stretch and the manpower to piece it into the engines at street level. 3. Just because you have a standpipe does not mean you will use it. 4. If we wanted our line pieced in, we should have done it ourselves. It would have taken 300’ of 3” hose and a gated wye. 5. With no rescue problem, we could have used L-2 as an elevated waterway. After the Fire, Columbus Health Department Night of the fire, building undergoing renovation Second Edition 01/11/22 3 111 N. 4th St. – AT&T BUILDING By Lt. Tim Wyckoff In early 2017, I was still a firefighter riding OOC, just prior to my promotion. While working at Station 1 on a beautiful weekend day, we were sent to 111 N. 4th St. (commonly known as the AT&T building). At 0925, we had just finished checking the trucks and were headed upstairs when they sent out a Fire Alarm at the building. As we pulled up, we were met by the building maintenance members who quickly stated that the alarm was a false and we could cancel, which we did. At 0939, a second run was dispatched to the same address, except this time it was a report of a fire. As we walked into the lobby, everyone who looked like they belonged in the building was talking at a ridiculous pace, to anyone who even looked like a firefighter. This was the first indication that something was wrong. The second indication was that the building engineers explained that AEP was switching them from an old electrical underground transformer to a new one, and the electric to the entire building was down. The fire occurred while they were trying to start their back-up generators. The head of maintenance also explained that since the electric was down and they had no backup power, they had no working elevators, no fire pump, and nothing in the building was working. He also explained that two other members of his team would meet us on the 14th floor; they were trying to put the fire out. At this point we had a lot of unknowns and very little we could actually confirm. Unknown fire problem, unknown rescue problem, and unknown water and access issues. Adding to the list of problems was that we had only arrived with a single engine and single ladder both at minimum staffing; the second engine was dealing with a mechanical issue which developed after we took the alarm. Second Edition 01/11/22 4 The new high-rise SOP had recently been developed and put in place, but we felt the best option at the time was to re-con the situation and get some realistic idea of how bad the situation was. We could then either escalate the alarm situation or de-escalate the response. We elected to climb the stairs (the only option), begin to set up the operations floor, and begin to set up for the rest of the event. As we headed for the stairwell, M-1 established lobby control and began to collect additional information for the later arriving companies. On the way up the stairs, we updated the incoming companies, reported the floors we were at, and attempted to maintain contact with the IC. At the 7th floor we were all pretty tired. With so many unknowns about the situation, we felt that getting to the fire floor ASAP was necessary to gather good information and to make sure we were in the right stairwell to make the attack, if in fact there was a fire. We elected to create a small gear cache on the landing between 7 and 8 and continue up with more speed. Upon reaching the 13 th floor, we checked the hallway and stairwell for smoke; we then went to 14 and did the same. The hallway and adjoining large room were clear except for a slight haze, but the adjoining room had two sets of double doors back-toback. The first set was open, but the second set was closed. When I opened the door, black smoke was banked down to the floor and fire rolled across the ceiling. I immediately shut the door! I then returned to the stairwell, where I was met by the rest of my crew who had reached the top of the steps. I quickly conferred with Capt. Anderson, advised him of what we had, and sent my nozzle-man back to retrieve the rest of the gear. We radioed out to command to advise him we had a working fire, and that we would be establishing the initial attack group. We also advised him we were connecting to the standpipe and preparing for the attack. While waiting for the gear, we emptied several extinguishers on the burning generator and the pit below it; this helped the situation but did not put the fire out completely. After hearing “working fire” on the radio, the driver from E-1 made the connection to the FDC outside, secured a water supply from E-9, and began pumping water into the system. The engine driver had gone to see if they could get the fire pump running with the maintenance personnel and re-con the extent of the problem. It is important to note here that as soon as we had the line flaked out and were preparing to connect the hose, the nozzle-man from E-9 opened the standpipe valve to flush the connection; we had water. We made the decision to use the standpipe connection on the fire floor and the hallway available to stretch the line and lay it out. We selected this outlet due to the size of the fire and the protection afforded us by the multiple sets of doors between us and the fire. At this point, the incident de-escalated quickly. We were able to get the line in a good spot to cool the room and the generator and put the fire out. L-1 was able to complete the search of the immediate area; by that time, we were quickly met by companies arriving from the lobby, who then took over and allowed us to take a break. Second Edition 01/11/22 5 This fire did not go perfectly, but there are plenty of lessons to take away from the event. We had several members on this fire who did jobs that normally would not have been designated to them. They performed really well under the circumstances, making the event far less serious than it could have been. Big lessons to me: 1. Spend a little more time in the lobby to gather information and set up a stronger command structure with clear objectives. 2. If you encounter problems with building systems, especially elevators or the fire pump, consider upgrading the alarm or calling for additional resources. 3. Review the lobby control objectives with every member and attempt to designate a lobby control company early in the incident. 4. Flush the connection; we did and had no issues but it is easy to forget in the excitement of the event. 5. If you are climbing the steps to the attack, consider removing your helmet and hood and hanging them on your coat. Open your coats to increase ventilation and reduce firefighter fatigue. 6. Firefighters need to have one free hand to assist in climbing the stairwell by grabbing the railing. 7. Officers should consider carrying more than one radio with spare batteries for monitoring multiple talk-groups, or as an extra to use if one goes dead. 8. Officers should also consider carrying a large marker in their pocket. This could be used to mark areas you have entered, or to create make-shift accountability boards in or near the stairwell on the walls if necessary. 9. Call for help early. Second Edition 01/11/22 6 Royal York Apartments 1445 E. Broad St. By Lt. Shawn McConnell It was approximately 0640 hrs on the morning of March 19th, 2019. E-8, L-8, E-15, and BN-1 were dispatched on a Fire Alarm to 1445 E. Broad St. It was an address well known by the crews, as we had taken many runs to the building and had conducted several training sessions over the years. This building presents some unique challenges, since it does not have sprinklers or standpipes. It also has a large setback from the street, and limited access for apparatus. The building is a 6story mid-rise residential apartment building with three different wings (A, B, and C). Constructed in 1938, the building is well built and very compartmentalized, essentially bullet proof. The residents are comprised of mostly elderly occupants. I was riding as the officer of E-15, and as we were making our way up Nelson Rd. the dispatcher reported that this was now going to be a working fire assignment. The dispatcher informed crews en route that they had received multiple calls, reporting that there was a fire on one of the upper floors. Given the time of day, I knew that there was going to be a high life hazard as most occupants would still be sleeping. As E-15 was turning onto Broad, E-8 arrived on scene and Lt. Doug Adkins gave a rundown. E-8 reported heavy fire showing from a 3rd floor window in the C wing, and requested a second alarm be started. E-8’s initial plan of attack was to stretch the 250’ bed of 1 ¾” up the stairs to the fire floor. Responding crews were very familiar with the building due to the extensive pre-planning and trainings that had been conducted here. E-8’s officer knew that with the engine parked in front of the building the 250’ bed would reach the top floor and all apartments within the building. Crews would be able to the maximize the length of the hose via a well stretch vertically up the center of the open stairwell. Captain Brian Rosko on L-8 that shift, reported that there was heavy smoke and multiple victims exiting the rear stairwell on the back side of Building C. Recognizing that the initial medical response would not be enough, he requested five additional medics be added for treatment and transport. L-8 pulled in via the west driveway in order to set up their aerial for rescue. E-15 backed into the scene via the east driveway to E-8; this was done so we could lay a 5” supply line out to the hydrant on the opposite side of Broad St. By performing a reverse lay, we could quickly secure a 5” supply while placing the trucks in series. This presented its own challenges as citizens on their way to work that morning continually drove over the supply line. BN-1 had realized en route that Broad Street would need to be shut down and had called for CPD to direct traffic away from the scene. With the initial assignment in position, incoming companies would now be faced with limited access to the building. Second Edition 01/11/22 7 As the pump operator and one member of E-15 established a water supply, the other member and I headed up to help E-8’s crew with the hose advancement. Lt. Adkins had made entry ahead of the line to recon the fire floor and ensure that the door to the fire apartment was closed. While his crew was deploying the line to the front door and getting ready to make entry, I was assessing the scene and fire conditions. I met with Captain Rosko, and we briefly discussed performing a transitional attack prior to E-8’s crew advancing the initial line inside. At this point, fire was now auto-exposing from the fire apartment on three and into the fourth floor above. I directed E-8’s crew to bring their hose line over and flow water into the third floor window since it was already charged. At the same time, my other firefighter from E-15 was pulling E-8’s blitz line as well. This would allow us to continue to flow water into the fire apartment from the exterior, freeing up the initial attack line to advance into the structure. With the blitz line taking over the transitional attack, E-8’s crew advanced via the stairwell to the fire floor. The transitional attack had worked well in darkening down the fire and keeping it from extending beyond the initial fire apartment to the fourth floor. Captain Rosko announced the strategy over the radio to keep all companies informed of the change in tactics from transitional to interior. Once E-8 and L-8 had the fire knocked down, they radioed out informing the crews on scene they had water on the fire and an all clear in the fire apartment. E-15’s crew moved inside to start search and evacuation of the floors above with L-15 and E-9. Lt. Adkins was reporting that there were heavy smoke conditions on the floors above due to the open stairwell. We ascended the stairs searching for victims and simultaneously getting an all clear on the floors above. Occupants were forced to self-evacuate down the attack stairs due to the rear/evacuation stairwell being full of smoke as well. When possible, crews made the decision to have some occupants shelter in place as it would be safer than the smoke-filled stairwells. Ventilation was eventually set up in the stairwells and conditions improved. With the improved conditions in the stairwells, E-15 was able to evacuate a man and his dog who otherwise were about to be rescued via L-8’s aerial. Overall, the fire went fairly well due to the adaptability of the crews on scene. KEY TAKEAWAYS: 1. Adaptability of crews. Although we trained and pre-planned for a fire in this building, it was not executed exactly the way we had trained. Due to the fire being on a lower floor and the fire extending up the exterior, the decision to perform a transitional attack was the right call. Fast water on the fire allowed the bulk of the fire to be knocked down, giving crews time to advance to the third floor fire apartment and evacuate occupants. 2. Size-up and call for additional alarms. Crews recognized the high life hazard upon arrival and the call for a 2nd Alarm in their rundown was made early. Based on an obvious working fire and the potential need for evacuation and treatment of multiple victims, calling for resources early will get you the crews needed to adapt and overcome as situations arise. 3. Water supply. Second due engines should always be ready to reverse lay to the hydrant to maximize their water supply. This also gives you the added benefit of pumping in series should the first engine fail. The need for pressure in a high-rise will generally be greater Second Edition 01/11/22 8 than a typical house fire. This can be especially true when the building does not have any fire protection systems in place. 4. Shelter in place. If the conditions allow for sheltering occupants in place, this is a great alternative to evacuating during the initial fire attack. There is no need to put occupants in danger or expose them to hazardous conditions if they can safely stay in their apartments until the fire is under control. However, consideration has to be given for the occupants above the fire as CO can build rapidly if ventilation is not performed in a timely manner. 5. Accountability. On an incident like this there were multiple crews performing numerous tasks in the building at the same time. Incident Command did a great job of setting up divisions and groups to manage and track crews while in the hazard zone. Second Edition 01/11/22 9 PAGE LEFT BLANK FOR DOUBLE SIDED PRINTING Second Edition 01/11/22 10 EQUIPMENT OVERVIEW HIGH-RISE OPERATIONS MANUAL SECTION TOPICS Pump Operator’s FDC Bag High-Rise Hose Pack Nozzles 2 ½” High Pressure FDC Hose High-Rise Pack Building Procedures High-Rise Standpipe Bag Elkhart Brass R.A.M. XD High-Rise Hose Pack Mercury Quick Attack Monitor/MQA SECTION OBJECTIVES Understand the contents and the purpose of all equipment in the FDC Pump Operator’s bag Be able to competently deploy the high-rise pack Understand the specifications, pressure ratings, and use of FDC high pressure hose Be able to competently perform the role of the control firefighter making connections to the standpipe Be able to competently perform the role of a pump operator connecting to an FDC Understand the flows and pressures associated with the R.A.M Understand the contents and purpose of all equipment within the high-rise standpipe bag Understand the R.A.M’s active safety system Understand the specifications, pressure ratings, and use of the highrise hose pack Demonstrate an understanding of tactical considerations when using the MQA Understand the specifications of highrise nozzles including operating pressures, GPM, and nozzle reaction Understand the pressure and flows associated with the Mercury Quick Attack Understand which high-rise nozzle tip size should be used with the 2” hose Understand tactical considerations for using the RAM in high-rise operations Second Edition 01/11/22 11 PUMP OPERATOR’S FDC BAG OVERVIEW • Exact contents of the pump operator’s FDC bag may vary slightly from one engine to another, but all should have at least the minimum complement of equipment described below • Below are examples of typical CFD pump operator’s FDC bags and their contents SPANNERS • Used to remove caps and tighten hoseline couplings • All connections made to both the FDC and the Engine should be “spanner tight” • Can be used to pry debris out of the FDC inlet 2 ½” DOUBLE MALE/DOUBLE FEMALE • Used if the female FDC connection will not spin freely. Thread a double male adapter and a double female adapter together onto the female connection of the FDC to create a properly operating female swivel STRAIGHT SCREWDRIVER • Used to remove debris found in the FDC • Used to pry off frangible plastic caps (photo on right) Second Edition 01/11/22 12 FORCEPS • Used to remove debris found in the FDC 2 ½” CAPS • If the clapper valves in the FDC are broken, this cap can be used to plug one side of the FDC to keep water from coming out when the other side is charged • It is recommended that firefighters attach supply lines to both sides of the FDC from the start, rather than using the caps • If one side is capped and the other side is charged, the capped side becomes useless due to pressure bleeding over to the capped side KNOX KEY WRENCH • Used to unlock and remove Knox FDC locking caps if they are used at the FDC connection • There is no known way to defeat the Knox caps without the use of this key PICK TOOL • Used to remove the weather/dust cover on the Knox FDC lock GASKETS • Replace missing or broken gaskets in the FDC for a water-tight connection WEBBING • Can be used to marry the hose lines going to the FDC to alleviate excessive vibrations from high pump pressures • Using webbing to secure hoselines can help prevent potential injuries if a hoseline were to burst Second Edition 01/11/22 13 2 ½” HIGH PRESSURE FDC HOSE 2 ½” MERCEDES AQUAFLOW HP HOSE ● 2 – 100’ Sections, total of 200’ on every CFD Engine ● Blue-green in color ● Premium all synthetic double-jacketed hose ● 43 lbs dry weight per 100’ section ● Service pressure rated up to 400 PSI ● Proof pressure 800 PSI (Proof pressure is the maximum pressure that can be applied to the hose without changing its performance capabilities) ● Burst pressure rated at 1800 PSI ● Burst safety factor 3.75 times the service rated pressure ● Exceeds all NFPA 1961, Underwriters Laboratories, and Factory Mutual performance requirements ● 2 ½” NH male and female couplings CFD OPERATIONS ● High pressure FDC hose may not be loaded in the same spot or the same way on every CFD Engine. Know your truck! ● The above right photo shows the high-pressure hose on Engine 2 loaded in a flat load with both male couplings on top, allowing the pump operator to pull both hoses at the same time toward the FDC connection Second Edition 01/11/22 14 HIGH-RISE STANDPIPE BAG OVERVIEW • Exact contents of standpipe bag may vary slightly based on each engine’s first due district, but all should have at least the minimum complement of equipment described below • Bag is as lightweight as possible while still carrying all necessary equipment • Below is an example of the Engine 9 standpipe bag and its contents ELKHART BRASS 2 ½” GATE VALVE MODEL X86A Specifications • Made of lightweight aluminum weighing just 5.5 lbs • Non-rising stem • Metal to metal seat • Pressure rated up to 175 PSI • 2 ½” National Hose/National Standard Thread female free swivel • 2 ½” National Hose/National Standard Thread male outlet Use • Attach directly to standpipe outlet prior to flushing the system • Easily control and set the desired flow to the hose line after the standpipe valve has been fully opened • Flushing and dialing in the flow pressure will be much easier with the gate valve than with the standpipe hand wheel, which may be difficult to turn 18” PIPE WRENCH • Used to open the standpipe valve if the hand wheel is missing, broken, or will not turn • Use caution if using the pipe wrench to open a difficult standpipe valve. The amount of torque created can easily snap a standpipe hand wheel • Used to remove the bonnet on the Zurn PRV to expose the field adjustment nut Second Edition 01/11/22 15 ELKHART BRASS 2 ½” HIGH-RISE DRAIN ELBOW MODEL 105A Specifications • 45° drain elbow • 2 ½” National Hose/National Standard Thread female free swivel knurled edge • 2 ½” National Hose/National Standard Thread male discharge • Pressure rated up to 200 PSI • Made of lightweight aluminum weighing just 2 lbs Use • Placed before the inline pressure gauge • Should be placed so the hose line makes a gradual bend toward the floor to alleviate kinks in the hose coming from the standpipe valve • The drain valve helps relieve pressure if the hose line becomes caught under a door or other obstruction • Drain valve allows water to be bled in the stairwell after operation, limiting water damage ELKHART BRASS 2 ½” INLINE PRESSURE GAUGE MODEL 228A Specifications • 0-200 phosphorescent air filled, fully guarded, shock resistant gauge • Protective gauge cover • Made of hard anodized ELK-O-LITE cast aluminum weighing just 1.6 lbs • 2 ½” National Hose/National Standard Thread female free swivel • 2 ½” National Hose/National Standard Thread male discharge Use • Should be placed after the elbow whenever possible. If the gate valve is partially opened, it creates turbulence in the water. Placing the inline pressure gauge after the elbow reduces the turbulence before it reaches the gauge, leading to more accurate pressure readings • Used to ensure the proper pressure is set at the standpipe and to troubleshoot standpipe issues • If the proper pressure is showing on the gauge but the nozzle firefighter does not have an adequate stream, the problem is between the standpipe and the nozzle (possible kinks) • If the standpipe valve is completely open but the gauge is showing inadequate pressure, a PRD/PRV may need to be removed or adjusted o If this fails to increase pressure, the engine on the FDC will need to begin pumping into the system Second Edition 01/11/22 16 SPANNERS • Used to remove caps and tighten hoseline couplings • All hoselines and fittings should be “spanner tight” PRV ADJUSTMENT ROD • Used to make pressure adjustments on two types of field adjustable pressure reducing valves • The Urfa PRV and the Giacomini PRV use the same size adjustment rod • 12” in length, 3/8” Stainless Steel 1 1/16” DEEP WELL SOCKET SET • Used to adjust the field adjustment nut on the Zurn PRV after the bonnet is removed • Tighten the field adjustment nut to increase standpipe outlet pressure, or loosen the adjustment nut to decrease pressure T-HANDLE 5/32” PIN AND HEX SECURITY WRENCH • Used to remove the set screw holding the Lexan covering on the Urfa PRV • Can be used to remove the external limiting device on some PRDs STRAIGHT SCREWDRIVER • Used to pry off orifice plates • Used to defeat the weak point of the Lexan covering on the Urfa PRV • Used to pry off external limiting devices on PRDs KNOX KEY WRENCH • Used to unlock and remove Knox caps if they are used on the standpipe connection • There is no known way to defeat the Knox caps without the use of this key Second Edition 01/11/22 17 DOOR CHOCKS/WEDGES • Used to hold doors open to prevent pinch points for hose, or to keep self-closing doors from closing and locking behind firefighters • Prior to chocking doors open, firefighters must consider the affect this will have on air flow throughout the structure. Chocking doors open on lower floors can significantly influence stack effect in high-rise structures ASSORTED FITTINGS 1.5” to 2.5” Increaser • Used if the only standpipe connection available is a 1.5” connection • Place the increaser on the 1.5” connection, then make all other hose connections like normal • Use this increaser only if there is no 2.5” standpipe outlet connection available 2.5” to 1.5” Reducer • Used for overhaul operations • Allows hoseline to be reduced to 1 3/4" after the fire is extinguished. The smaller hoseline increases mobility during overhaul while decreasing water damage • Reducing to a smaller handline after fire extinguishment decreases firefighter fatigue and injury potential during overhaul operations Miscellaneous • Some engine companies may carry other adapters, such as pipe thread to national standard hose thread adapters • The adapter shown on the right is 2” National Pipe Thread to 1.5” National Hose Thread • Pipe Thread may be found in older standpipe systems or hose cabinets when PRDs are removed GASKETS • Spare gaskets are used to replace any damaged or torn gaskets found during high-rise firefighting operations • Gaskets on the inline pressure gauge, elbow, and gate valve should be regularly inspected to avoid having to replace gaskets during high-rise firefighting operations Second Edition 01/11/22 18 HIGH-RISE HOSE PACK OVERVIEW • Total length of the high-rise hose pack—150’ o One 50’ section of 2 ½” o Two 50’ sections of 2” • Total dry weight of the high-rise hose pack—55.5 lbs 2 ½” • • • • • • • MERCEDES TEXTILES—KRAKENEXO One 50’ section Orange in color Service pressure—400 lbs Proof pressure—800 lbs Burst pressure—1,500 lbs Dry hose weight—21.5 lbs The 50’ section can be found loaded in various configurations, such as the twin donut in the photo on the right. Some companies also load the 50’ section in a single stack bundle. Every firefighter should be familiar with the way the hose pack is laid out on their engine 2” MERCEDES TEXTILES—KRAKENEXO • Two 50’ sections with 2 ½” couplings • Red in color • Dry hose weight per 50’ section—17 lbs • Service pressure—400 lbs • Proof pressure—800 lbs • Burst pressure—1,500 lbs • Dry hose weight for the 100’ of 2”—34 lbs Second Edition 01/11/22 19 HIGH-RISE HOSE PACK NOZZLES 2 ½” • • • • ELKHART BRASS XD SHUTOFF WITH PISTOL GRIP Dual drive shutoff with full round metal ball Forged aluminum shutoff body Forged metal bale handle Under or over pumping will have repercussions for flow and nozzle reaction in either direction • Although this nozzle can be used with various tip sizes, the recommended tip size to be used for high rise applications is a 1 1/16” tip 2 ½” ELKHART DB-375-GAT SHUTOFF • Forged aluminum body with a pistol grip • Has a 1 ¼” discharge integrated into the nozzle, but a 1 1/16” tip should be used with this nozzle for high rise operations. A 1 ¼” discharge is too large for the 2” high rise hose • This is an older style nozzle generally found on engines purchased prior to 2019 ELKHART 188 XD SMOOTH BORE 1 1/16” TIP • Lightweight aluminum construction • Urethane molded bumper (Orange in color) • The recommended tip for high-rise applications • 240 GPM at 50 PSI NP (87 lbs nozzle reaction) o Need 90 PSI at the standpipe for 150’ hose stretch o Need 95 PSI at the standpipe for 200’ hose stretch (One 50’ section of 2 ½” added) o Need 105 PSI at the standpipe for 200’ hose stretch (One 50’ section of 2” added) 1 1/16” Tip Hose Length Nozzle Pressure 150’ 50 PSI GPM Friction Loss 240 87 LBS Standpipe Discharge Pressure 90 PSI 87 LBS 95 PSI 87 LBS 105 PSI Nozzle Reaction 37 PSI Adding 50’ of 2 ½” 200’ 50 PSI 240 42 PSI Adding 50’ of 2” 200’ 50 PSI Second Edition 01/11/22 240 55 PSI 20 CHOKER TIPS Fire attack crews may encounter a standpipe equipped with a Factory Pre-Set Non-Adjustable Pressure Reducing Valve that has been improperly set, leaving them with inadequate discharge pressure from the standpipe. If crews encounter low discharge pressures from the standpipe, they should try to troubleshoot the issue (Use the standpipe outlet on the next floor down, use a different stairwell, etc.). The Fire Attack Group Supervisor may elect to use a “choker tip” to gain stream reach and velocity when these lower pressures are encountered. Through testing, it is has been determined that the current CFD high-rise hose package will keep an effective stream down to approximately 50 PSI standpipe discharge pressure. Pressures lower than that will begin causing an ineffective fire stream that may not allow crews to initiate a fire attack. Crews can attempt to place a 15/16” tip onto the handline in place of the 1 1/16” tip. This may allow crews to gain increased stream reach and velocity, allowing them to initiate an effective fire attack. 1 1/16” Tip Hose Length Nozzle Pressure 150’ 30 PSI 52 LBS Standpipe Discharge Pressure 50 PSI 40 LBS 50 PSI GPM Friction Loss Nozzle Reaction 180 20 PSI 15/16” Tip 150’ 30 PSI 151 20 PSI Click here to view a video on Choker Tips When using a choker tip on the handline, there will be a loss of GPM as a tradeoff for the gain in stream reach. The Fire Attack Group Supervisor will need to decide if this amount of water will be enough based on the conditions of the fire floor. A compartmentalized residential high-rise fire may not require the full GPM of the 1 1/16” tip. However, a large commercial high-rise floor with heavy fire involvement will require flows well above the capability of the 15/16” choker tip. Second Edition 01/11/22 21 HIGH-RISE PACK BUILDING PROCEDURES OVERVIEW • This section will demonstrate several examples for building the Division’s high-rise hose pack. These are merely some common examples; how the packs are built and where they are stored will be specific to each engine company • 2” Pack o Two 50’ sections of 2” hose with 2 ½” couplings o Three straps • 2 ½” Pack o One 50’ section of 2 ½” hose o Either one or three straps, depending on the packing method • Smoothbore nozzle with a 1 1/16” tip Click here to view Vector Solutions video on High Rise Pack Building Procedures STEPS FOR 2” PACK ASSEMBLY Gather all the necessary equipment listed above. Roll both sections of the 2” hose; this squeezes the air out and removes any water. Roll one of the sections with the male coupling inside, and roll one of the sections with the female coupling inside. The compartment on the engine where this pack will be placed is 59” wide. The high-rise pack should be made 56” long to allow the pack to be easily removed and replaced in the compartment. If your station does not have a pre-marked measurement (painted lines on the floor), duct tape lines can be placed on the floor as shown in the photo on the right. Second Edition 01/11/22 22 Start with the hose that has the female coupling rolled to the inside. Extend the male coupling 10-12” past the mark on the floor. Doing so allows firefighters to fold the coupling back on top of the pack after it is built; it can then be secured with the straps. On the opposite marker, start by making the first fold at the 56” mark. Fold the hose on top of itself back toward the male coupling at the other end. Keeping the hose rolled while creating the stack helps prevent air from entering the hose. Have a firefighter hold the section of hose and unroll it while others create the folds. Second Edition 01/11/22 23 Lay the hose on top of itself back toward the other end where the male coupling is. Make another fold at the mark on the floor. Firefighters will then continue making the folds on top of each other at the marks until all 50’ of hose is in a single stack. Leave the female coupling on top of the stack; it will be connected to the other section of hose later. Extend the female coupling of the other 50’ section of 2” hose about 12-15” past the mark, close to the male coupling of the first section of hose. Extending the female coupling slightly longer than the male coupling allows the additional length of the nozzle to be accounted for when securing the straps. Create a second stack the same way the first stack was built previously. Place the folds at the 56” mark until all 50’ of hose is single stacked on top of itself. This will cause the male coupling to end up on top of this stack. If enough firefighters are present, this second stack can be built at the same time the first stack is being built. Second Edition 01/11/22 24 The female coupling on top of the first stack and the male coupling on top of the second stack will be next to each other as shown in the photo on the right. Connect the male and female couplings that are on top of the stacks. Position the married coupling near the end of the stack where it can be secured with a strap. Placing the coupling near the end of the pack (as opposed to in the center) allows the high-rise pack to bend more easily over a firefighter’s shoulder. Secure the married coupling with a strap near the end of the hose pack opposite the nozzle, as shown in the photo on the right. Second Edition 01/11/22 25 Fold the remaining female and male couplings over the top of the pack and attach the nozzle if it has not already been connected. Secure the nozzle and the female coupling with another strap. Use the remaining strap(s) to secure the middle of the pack as shown below. Final Product: • The pack should be 56” long • The female coupling and the nozzle should be at one end of the pack • The coupling joining the two sections should be on the other end of the pack • Keeping the coupling away from the center of the pack will allow the pack to bend more easily over a firefighter’s shoulder or air pack when it is being carried • All the straps should be oriented in the same direction to allow for easier removal • Ensure the straps are secure and that they will not allow the coupling or the nozzle to slip out or fall from the pack Second Edition 01/11/22 26 2 ½” PACK ASSEMBLY Twin Donut The only equipment needed to make the Twin Donut roll is the 50’ section of 2 ½” hose and one Velcro strap. Start by laying the hose out flat with no twists in the hose. Next, divide the hose in half by making so the male and female couplings are even beside each other. At the end of the hose opposite of the couplings, place the strap in the fold as shown in the photo on the right. Begin rolling the fold toward the couplings. The two rolls will begin forming side by side. Second Edition 01/11/22 27 The load will finish with two compact rolls side by side with the couplings next to each other and the Velcro strap in the center of the roll. Secure the Velcro strap over the hose near the couplings to keep them tight to the roll. The Velcro strap also doubles as a carrying strap. Final Product: The pack should be compact enough to fit into the rear compartment on the officer’s side of CFD engines. Second Edition 01/11/22 28 2 ½” PACK ASSEMBLY Single Stack The equipment required for the Single Stack is one 50’ section of 2 ½” hose and three Velcro straps. To indicate where to place the folds, use the same 56” markers that were used for the 2” pack. Start the pack by doubling the hose back on top of itself with the male coupling on top as shown in the photo on the right. Leave the male coupling approximately two feet short of the female coupling. Place the tail end of the hose at one of the 56” markers. The first fold is then made at the other 56” marker, while keeping the hose doubled on top of itself. Continue to pack the hose in a single stack, making folds on top of themselves at each 56” marker. The load should finish with the male coupling on top. The female coupling can then be laid over top of the male coupling to protect it. Second Edition 01/11/22 29 The load can then be secured using the three velcro straps. Final Product: • The pack should be 56” long, which will allow it to be stored in one of the middle compartments on the engine • One advantage of this load is that if it is packed correctly, it can fit into the smaller compartments of older engines next to the 2” pack (Photo above) • In summary, the methods show here are not the only variations that crews may choose from. Every firefighter should be familiar with how the high rise hose is loaded and where it is placed on their engine Second Edition 01/11/22 30 ELKHART BRASS R.A.M. XD SPECIFICATIONS • Has a patent pending hydraulic stability system that harnesses the reaction force to stabilize the RAM • Has four fold-out aluminum forged legs with carbide tipped ground spikes (Rear ground spikes are angled to help with grip) • Locking pin holds valve in a closed position to prevent accidental opening (allows RAM to be carried while attached to a charged hose line) • Attached safety strap comes with a storage pouch • 2-1/2” inlet and outlet Click here to view Brass Tacks and Hard Facts video on RAM XD • Has 20 of travel left and right from center use during high rise operations • Can be set from 51 to 35 while unmanned • Can be lowered from 35 down to 14 when manned PRESSURE AND FLOW • Operation is not to exceed 500 GPM and/or 150 psi • Comes with 1-3/8” deluge tip • 1-3/8” deluge tip = 505 GPM at 80 psi NP (55 lbs of FL per 100’) • To achieve optimal flow, ensure there is 20 feet of hose in a straight line behind the RAM • 9.5 lbs of friction loss within the RAM when flowed at 500 GPM ACTIVE SAFETY SYSTEM • The RAM XD has a built-in safety system with an upper and lower pivot point. The offset configuration of the two pivot points creates a condition where the reaction force of the water acting upon the upper pivot point (if sufficient enough) will cause the nozzle to rotate upward about the lower pivot point • This produces a self-correcting increase in nozzle angle to protect against possibly dangerous unmanned use of the monitor at nozzle angles less than 35 above horizontal • The hydraulic effect of the system is active at approximately 350 GPM CONSIDERATIONS FOR HIGH-RISE USE • Advanced fire/heavy fire load • Good for open area floor plans • Unmanned operations • 2 ½” or 1 ¾” hoseline can be extended from the RAM after initial knockdown for clean-up and hot spots • Remove stream straightener when using RAM for high rise operations Click to view Brass Tacks and Hard Facts video on how to extend a hoseline from the RAM Second Edition 01/11/22 31 MERCURY QUICK ATTACK MONITOR/MQA SPECIFICATIONS AND PERFORMANCE • Rated for flows up to 500 GPM • Only 6 PSI friction loss through the unit at 500 GPM • Tip can rotate 20 left or right from center • Can be operated from 60 to 30 when unmanned • Top handle contains a springloaded mechanism that allows the user to travel down to 20 (will self-adjust back to 30) PRESSURE AND FLOW • Generally comes with triple stacked tips • 1” = 266 GPM at 80 psi nozzle pressure (15 lbs of FL per 100’) • 1-1/8” = 336 GPM at 80 psi nozzle pressure (25 lbs of FL per 100’) • 1-1/4” = 415 GPM at 80 psi nozzle pressure (38 lbs of FL per 100’) • 1-3/8” = 502 GPM at 80 psi nozzle pressure (55 lbs of FL per 100’) • Some models may have 1-1/2” deluge tip on them (shown above) • 1-1/2” = 496 GPM at 55 psi nozzle pressure (55 lbs of FL per 100’)* *This tip must be pumped at or below 55 psi nozzle pressure. Higher pressures would exceed the GPM rating of the MQA and 2-1/2” hose TACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS • The MQA has a 2-1/2” inlet and outlet • Most companies will forgo running the 1” tip on the end of the MQA • The 1” tip provides no GPM advantage over an 1-1/8” tip at 50 psi on a handline CONSIDERATIONS FOR HIGH-RISE USE • Advanced fire/heavy fire load where unmanned operations may be needed • Good for open area floor plans • Excellent option for commercial high-rise fires, but has limited use in residential high-rises • If the MQA is equipped with a stream straightener, remove it for high-rise operations. Stream straighteners can become clogged with standpipe debris • Hoselines can be extended from the MQA after initial knockdown for clean-up and hot spots • A 1-3/4” hoseline can be connected to the end of the 1-1/4” stacked tip • MQA 2-1/2” outlet allows for a 2-1/2” attack line to be extended off the outlet base of the unit Second Edition 01/11/22 32 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