Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Hose Manual PDF

 Compiled and written by: Melissa Watson, Captain, Training and Safety Division, Palm Beach County Fire Rescue, 2nd Edition, Copyright © 2021  Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Hose Manual Table of Contents Introduction………………………………...

 Compiled and written by: Melissa Watson, Captain, Training and Safety Division, Palm Beach County Fire Rescue, 2nd Edition, Copyright © 2021  Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Hose Manual Table of Contents Introduction…………………………………………………………………….. 3 Definitions......………………………………………………………………….. 5 Chapter 1 Hose Lengths & Loads: Introduction………………………………………………... 10 Amount of Hose on Apparatus..………….……….…….. 10 Hose Loads……………………………………………….. 12 Hose Bed………………………………………………….. 13 5” Supply Hose……………………………….…………… 13 5” LDH Supply Line…………....………………….……… 17 3” Supply Hose…………………………………….……… 18 Pigtails…………………………………………………..…. 19 2 ½” Blitz Line…………………………………………….. 19 Tru-ID 2.5 Standpipe Bundles……………………….….. 22 1 ¾” Crosslays……………………………………………. 24 1 ¾” Front Bumper Line…………………………............ 29 1 ½” Forestry Hose……………………………………..... 29 Maximum Efficient Flow………………………………….. 29 Booster Reel………………………………………………. 30 1” Decontamination Hose………………………………... 30 Hard Suction………………………………………………. 31 Hose Covers………………………………………………. 32 General Care of Hose……………………………………. 32 Hose Couplings…………………………………………… 33 Life Span of Fire Hose…………………………………… 34 Chapter 2 Hose Identification Numbering System: Hose Identification Numbers…………………………….. 38 Requesting New Hose Identification Numbers…..….… 39 Chapter 3 Hose Service Testing: Hose Service Testing Procedures……………………… 42 Hose Service Testing – Hard Suction………………….. 46 Documenting the Results………………………………... 48 Duplicate/Missing Hose Identification Numbers………. 54 Damaged or Failed Hose (excluding 5”)………..……… 54 Damaged or Failed 5” Supply Hose……………………. 55 Appendix A Quick Reference Table for Hose Testing………………….. 57 Compiled and written by: Melissa Watson, Captain, Training and Safety Division, Palm Beach County Fire Rescue, 2nd Edition, Copyright © 2021 This Page Intentionally Left Blank 2 Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Hose Manual Introduction 3 Introduction At the very base level, fire hose is defined as a flexible conduit used to convey water, but on a deeper level, it is an important piece of the puzzle, along with the right nozzle and a well working fire pump to be an effective tool in the fire service. Whether it is used for supply line, fire attack, or an exposure line, fire hose plays an integral role as the first line of defense when it comes to fire suppression. It must meet very specific requirements in order to perform properly and keep personnel safe. It must be durable yet lightweight, flexible but not kink too much, and capable of moving the proper gpm without excessive friction loss. To meet these requirements manufacturers run the hose through rigorous testing in accordance with NFPA 1962. Through careful research and development, Palm Beach County Fire Rescue (PBCFR) has chosen the best equipment to serve the community and protect its citizens. The intent of this manual is to provide a foundation from which all PBCFR personnel should work and reference as needed. This condensed and comprehensive guide addresses many subjects associated with the fire hose used by PBCFR. Among them, you will find general information on hose lengths and loads, marking fire hose, service testing, and documenting the hose test results. While this manual includes an abundance of useful information, the following publications are also helpful resources: NFPA 1500, Standard on Fire Department Occupational Safety, Health, and Wellness Program NFPA 1901, Standard for Automotive Fire Apparatus NFPA 1911, Standard for the Inspection, Maintenance, Testing, and Retirement of In-Service Emergency Vehicles NFPA 1961, Standard on Fire Hose NFPA 1962, Standard for the Care, Use, Inspection, Service Testing, and Replacement of Fire Hose, Couplings, Nozzles, and Fire Hose Appliances Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Driver Operator Manual, 8th Edition, 2021 Specified Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Policies and SOGs 4 Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Hose Manual Definitions 5 Types of Fire Hose Defined (NFPA 1961, 1962) Attack Hose – Hose designed to be used by trained firefighters and fire brigade members to combat fires beyond the incipient stage. Booster Hose – A non-collapsible hose used under positive pressure having an elastomeric or thermoplastic tube, a braided or spiraled reinforcement, and an outer protective cover. Fire Hose – A flexible conduit used to convey water. Forestry Fire Hose – A hose designed to meet specialized requirements for fighting wildland fires. Hard Suction Hose – A hose that is designed to prevent collapse under vacuum conditions so that it can be used for drafting water from a static water source (lakes, canals, wells, etc.). Large Diameter Hose (LDH) – A hose of 3½” or larger size. (LDH Supply Line also refers to short sections of Large Diameter Hose – 15 to 25 feet.) Occupant Use Hose – Fire hose designed to be used by the building’s occupants to fight incipient fires prior to the arrival of trained firefighters or fire brigade members. Pigtail – A short section of hose, 10 to 20 feet in length, that is connected to the apparatus and then coupled to a pre-connected hose line. Supply Hose – A hose designed for the purpose of moving water between a pressurized water source and a pump that is supplying attack lines. (Sometimes also referred to as Soft Sleeve Hose or Soft Suction Hose.) General Definitions (NFPA 1961, 1962) Coupling Slippage – Any permanent movement of the hose out of a coupling bowl, movement of an external coupling collar, or movement of the hose under an external coupling collar. Delamination – The separation of the cover or liner from the textile reinforcement of fire hose. Dutchman – A short fold or reverse bend placed in a hose when loading it into the hose bed; this fold allows couplings to pay out of the hose bed without flipping over. Fire Hose Appliance – A piece of hardware (excluding nozzles) generally intended for connection to fire hose to control or convey water. 6 Forward Lay – Hose laid from the water source to the fire scene (packed in the hose bed with the female coupling out). Hose Line – One or more lengths of hose coupled together. Hose Size – Hose size represents the inner diameter of the hose. Leak – The movement of any water through a hose, coupling, nozzle, or appliance in an area that should not permit water to pass. Multiple Jacket – Hose construction consisting of a combination of two separately woven reinforcements (double jacket) or two or more reinforcements interwoven. Operating Pressure – The highest pressure the hose should be pumped to during regular operation. Proof Test Pressure – A pressure equal to at least two times the service test pressure. (This is conducted only at the point of manufacture or at a facility equipped to perform these tests.) Reverse Lay – Hose laid from the fire scene to the water source (packed in the hose bed with the male coupling out). Service Test (Hose Test) – Hydrostatic test conducted by users on in-service hose, couplings, nozzles, or appliances to determine suitability for continued service. Sexless Couplings – Couplings with no distinct male or female components or threads. Also known as “Storz” connections. Slow Operating Valve – A valve that has a mechanism to prevent movement of the flow- regulating element from the fully closed position to the fully opened position or vice versa in less than 3 seconds. Water Hammer – The surge of pressure caused when a high velocity flow of water is abruptly shut off. The pressure exerted by the flowing water against the closed system can be seven or more times that of the static pressure. 7 This Page Intentionally Left Blank 8 Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Hose Manual Chapter 1 Hose Lengths & Loads 9 Introduction Palm Beach County Fire Rescue carries a variety of fire hose, each designed for a specific purpose. These hose lines commonly fall into one of four distinct categories: Supply Hose (5” and 3”) Pre-connected Hose Lines (2½” and 1¾”) Static Hose Packs (2½” Standpipe Bundles) Hard Suction Hose (6”) In addition to the hose typically associated with fire suppression operations, PBCFR also carries a 1” hose line designed for use during post fire decontamination and some apparatus are equipped with a booster reel as well. This chapter provides detailed information on each of these categories and types of hose utilized by PBCFR, to include amount carried, hose loads, intended use, and the nozzle typically associated with each line (if applicable). Amount of Hose on Apparatus Per NFPA 1901, the Standard for Automotive Fire Apparatus, all “Pumper Fire Apparatus” must carry a minimum of: 800’ of 2½” or larger fire hose At least 200’ of 2½” hose for hand line operation 400’ of 1½”, 1¾” or 2” fire hose 20’ of suction hose or 15’ of supply hose (Note: Not applicable to Wildland Fire Apparatus or Tenders) Beyond these minimum requirements, this fire standard goes on to read “The department should evaluate its needs and choose the size and amount of hose that will best support its operation…”. As you can see in the tables below, the amount of hose carried on all Palm Beach County Fire Rescue suppression units not only meets, but exceeds, the minimum requirements set forth by NFPA 1901. These tables represent the amount of hose carried on each PBCFR apparatus. As you are likely aware, Palm Beach is the largest county in the state, spanning over 2000 square miles. With an area this big, there is a variety of unique needs when it comes to fire suppression. To accommodate specific needs within the community, the amount of hose on some apparatus may differ slightly from the information listed in the tables. 10  PBCFR Engines Hose Size Amount Carried 5” 1000 - 1200’ 3” 300 - 400’ 2½” 400’ 1¾” 500 - 600’ Booster Reel (if equipped) 200’ Decon 50’ PBCFR Aerials Hose Size Amount Carried 5” 400 - 500’ 3” 300 - 500’ 2½” 200 - 400’ 1¾” 500’ Decon 50’ PBCFR Brush Trucks Hose Size Amount Carried 3” 500’ – 1000’ 2½” 200 - 400’ 1¾” 200’ All PBCFR Tender apparatus exceeds the minimum amount of hose required per NFPA 1901. However, due to different apparatus configurations and different needs based on battalion, each PBCFR Tender is outfitted with varying hose lengths and sizes. 11 Hose Loads The term hose load refers to the placement of hose on the apparatus. When describing specific hose loads, especially in regards to the hose bed, you will see the terms “front” and “back” referred to often. For clarification purposes, when referring to the “front” of the hose bed this means toward the front of the apparatus itself. When referring to the “back” of the hose bed, that means toward the back or tailboard of the apparatus. Furthermore, when referring to the “left” side of the apparatus, this means the driver’s side of the vehicle. Alternately, when referring to the “right” side of the truck this means the officer’s side of the unit. The hose carried by PBCFR commonly comes in lengths of either 50’ or 100’ depending on the diameter of the hose. However, varying lengths do come into play when referring to LDH supply line, pigtails, and hard suction. All references to hose size refer to the inside diameter of the hose, not the outside diameter. The table below is a useful quick reference guide for the supply and attack hose carried on PBCFR Apparatus. Hose Size Location Hose Load 5” Hose Bed Flat Load 3” Hose Bed Flat Load – Dual Reverse 2½” Blitz Line Hose Bed Flat Load / Minuteman 2½” Standpipe Bundles (4) Compartment Standpipe Bundles 1¾” Pre-connects (2) Crosslays Triple Layer S Load / Minuteman 1¾” Front Bumper Line Front Bumper Flat Load / Accordion Load 1½” Forestry Hose Hose Bed Flat Load General tips for loading hose: Regular training and reversing the direction of the supply line during annual hose testing may help prevent the hose from obtaining a “memory”. When coupling hose lines together for storage on the apparatus, do so by hand without using spanner wrenches. This allows personnel to disconnect the hose quickly, without the use of tools, when necessary. On all flat loads of supply hose, a “Dutchman” should be used when necessary to prevent a coupling from flipping as it pays out of the hose bed. 12 Hose Bed Palm Beach County Fire Rescue carries both 5” and 3” supply hose in the hose bed, each for a specific purpose. The 5” is to be used as our front line supply hose, while the 3” hose is used for supporting suppression operations. In addition to the supply line, PBCFR also carries the 2½” Blitz Line in the hose bed. Each hose size is discussed in detail below. Depending on the location of the Right Rear discharge, the hose bed may be set up in one of two different configurations as shown here. Regardless of the configuration, the hose load for each size hose remains the same. 5” Supply Hose The 5” supply hose currently carried on PBCFR apparatus is manufactured by the Key Hose Company and comes in 100’ lengths. This hose is recommended for use as the primary supply line when making hydrant connections and performing relay pumping operations. When laying a 5” supply line from a hydrant, if the attack engine will be more than 500’ from the hydrant, a relay should be established by placing an engine at the source. (This distance decreases to 300’ when using 3” hose.) Refer to SOG #420-02 Fire Attack Operations, and be aware that you may need to add an engine at the source based on other circumstances such as high pressure PRVs or commercial structure fires. Each incident will dictate the need. All PBCFR engines shall carry 1000-1200 feet of 5” supply hose. The 5” hose should be loaded on the left side of the hose bed, with a divider separating it from the 2½” or 3” hose load as shown in the diagrams above. This hose is to be loaded in a basic flat load as described here: Begin by placing the first coupling at the front left corner of the hose bed. 13  Lay the hose against the wall of the hose bed, working toward the back of the apparatus. When you reach the back of the apparatus, fold the hose over on top of itself and lay it toward the front of the vehicle while keeping the hose against the wall of the hose bed. When the hose reaches the front of the hose bed, angle it toward the right so that it lays next to the first fold as you work your way toward the back of the apparatus again. When you reach the back of the apparatus, again fold the hose on top of itself until you reach the front of the apparatus. When the hose reaches the front of the hose bed, again angle it to the right so that it lays next to the previous fold. Once again working your way toward the back of the apparatus. Repeat the process until you reach the hose bed divider. When you reach the divider, do not angle the hose back toward the left side of the hose bed. Instead, fold the hose on top of itself so that you have two full folds against the divider at the back of the apparatus. After the second fold has been made at the back of the apparatus, keep the hose against the divider until you reach the front of the hose bed. You can now angle the hose back toward the left side of the apparatus with each single fold. Repeat the process until you reach the left wall of the hose bed. 14  When you reach the left wall of the hose bed you will again lay the hose on top of itself for two folds before angling it back to the right. By adding a second fold each time you reach the wall or the divider you will maintain an even amount of folds on each “stack” of hose. When all of the hose is loaded in the hose bed, tie a rope or strap onto the hose near the coupling so that firefighters can easily grab the hose from the hose bed. When loading supply hose onto the apparatus, always ensure that the entire hose lay is completely coupled together at each coupling. As described above, loading supply hose is typically done by gathering sections of hose near the tailboard and loading them into the hose bed of a parked apparatus. However, when loading 5” supply hose there is an alternative method, which allows firefighters to occupy the hose bed while the apparatus is in motion. Per NFPA 1500, the Standard on Fire Department Occupational Safety, Health, and Wellness Program, this is one of two instances when personnel are permitted to ride on fire rescue apparatus without wearing a seatbelt. Be advised, if this technique is used, all personnel must use extreme caution and shall follow all provisions set forth in PBCFR SOG #310-03 Loading Hose on Moving Apparatus. Prior to loading hose onto a moving apparatus, personnel must abide by the following safety precautions: All Fire Rescue personnel involved in the hose loading shall have been trained in these procedures. There shall be a member, other than those Fire Rescue personnel loading hose, assigned as a Safety Observer. The Safety Observer shall have an unobstructed view of the hose loading operation and shall be in visual and voice contact with the Driver Operator at all times. Non-Fire Rescue vehicular traffic shall be excluded from the area or under the control of authorized traffic control persons. 15  The apparatus shall be driven only in a forward direction at a speed of 5 mph or less. No Fire Rescue personnel shall be allowed to stand on the tailboard, side steps, running boards, or any other location on the apparatus while it is in motion. Fire Rescue personnel shall be permitted to be in the hose bed, but shall NOT stand while the apparatus is in motion. Prior to the beginning of each hose loading operation, the situation shall be evaluated to ensure compliance with all of the provisions outlined herein. If these procedures cannot be complied with, or if there is any question as to the safety of the operation, then the hose shall not be loaded onto a moving fire apparatus. Procedure for loading hose onto a moving apparatus: **The placement of hose in the hose bed is the same as described above.**  Ensure that all sections of 5” hose are fully drained of water.  Couple all sections of 5” hose together and lay the hose in a straight line along the side of the road.  Position the apparatus parallel to the drained hose with the tailboard near the last coupling and the apparatus facing the far end of the hose lay.  With a minimum of 2 firefighters occupying the hose bed, take the free coupling from the supply hose bed and join it to the coupling on the ground.  When the hose bed crew is ready, the Driver Operator can proceed alongside the hose. Note: In areas where space is a concern, the apparatus can straddle the hose if necessary.  A ground based firefighter shall assist in loading the hose by walking near the tailboard and feeding the hose to the hose bed firefighters. 16   An additional firefighter shall be assigned as the Safety Observer.  The Safety Observer shall remain in visual and voice contact with the Driver Operator at all times signaling them accordingly to maintain the pace of the loading process. Note: The Safety Observer and DO shall communicate before the hose loading operation begins to ensure clear and concise communication between the two. When loading hose onto a moving apparatus, the apparatus shall only be driven in a forward direction at a speed of 5 mph or less. **Refer to PBCFR SOG #310-03 Loading Hose on Moving Apparatus for more information on loading hose onto a moving fire apparatus.** It is important to know that each 100’ section of 5” hose holds 102 gallons of water and weighs approximately 955 pounds (including the weight of the hose). Keep this in mind when laying 5” supply hose at a fire scene and try not to block the roadway with the hose. If you do inadvertently block the road with the hose, move it off to the side before charging the hose line whenever possible. Per NFPA 1962 the maximum pump pressure for 5” supply hose shall not exceed 185 psi. 5” LDH Supply Line Along with the 5” supply hose carried in the hose bed, PBCFR apparatus are also outfitted with a variety of shorter sections of 5” LDH Supply Line ranging from 15 to 25 feet in length. These hose lines are typically stored in a roll in the Driver Operator’s compartment, or are pre-connected to either the front intake, side steamer, or rear intake of the apparatus depending on the unit. They are designed for making a quick connection directly from the hydrant to the apparatus without having to deploy any supply hose from the hose bed. The 5” LDH Supply Lines are equipped with a variety of couplings, which will be discussed in detail later in this chapter. 17 3” Supply Hose The 3” supply hose carried on PBCFR apparatus is recommended for use with the Ground Monitor, FDC operations, to boost the water supply from a hydrant, and during certain Rural Water Supply operations. This hose comes in 50’ lengths, and is manufactured by the BullDog Hose Company, formerly Angus Hose. Depending on the area covered, each PBCFR engine carries 300 to 400 feet of 3” supply hose. Based on the intended use for this hose, the 3” supply line is typically loaded into the hose bed in a dual reverse lay configuration. With the hose loaded in this fashion, it enables crews to deploy the line as a single or a double reverse lay. When loading 3” hose into the hose bed, crews must first split the hose load in half, creating two piles of either 150 or 200 feet depending on the apparatus. Once this is done you will then flat load each half individually into the hose bed so that each half is placed into half of the space designated for the 3” hose. After loading both halves into the hose bed, you will then connect the two together in the middle so that it can be deployed as a single line if necessary. When packed properly, crews can easily break the coupling in the middle of the hose load and quickly deploy dual 3” lines for use with a Ground Monitor or an FDC. Procedure for loading 3” hose:  Begin by placing the female coupling against the divider at the front left corner of the designated space in the hose bed.  Next, load the first half of the hose in a flat load against the divider. Make sure that you place this hose on the left half of the hose bed. Note: Depending on the apparatus and the space in the hose bed, this flat load will either occupy a single or double stack of hose.  Once the first half of the hose is loaded into the hose bed, bring the last male coupling to the back of the apparatus.  Begin the second half of the hose load by placing the female coupling of the hose at the back of the apparatus next to the final stack of the first half of hose. The female coupling should protrude from the hose bed approximately 18 inches. This enables you 18  to connect this female coupling with the open male coupling of the first half of the hose load. Note: To make loading the hose easier, do not connect the couplings together until after the second half of the hose is loaded.  With the female coupling hanging off the back of the hose bed directly next to the left half of the 3” hose load, load the second half of the hose in a flat load next to and to the right of the first half.  When all of the 3” hose is loaded, connect the left and right half of the hose load together in the middle as shown in the photo above. When the hose load is finished, the center coupling connection and the male coupling at the end of the hose load should be exposed for easy access. See the photo above for reference. Note: All PBCFR Brush Trucks are equipped with a minimum of 500’ of 3” supply line. However, some units in rural areas of the county may carry 800-1000’ of 3” hose. This hose should be loaded in a flat load as a single forward lay with the female coupling out. On average, a 50 foot section of 3” hose contains 18.4 gallons & weighs 195.3 pounds (including the weight of the hose). Pigtails Pigtails may be connected to the following pre-connected hose lines on some PBCFR apparatus: 2½” Blitz Line, 1¾” Crosslays. Depending on the apparatus, placing a pigtail on the hose line may assist with loading and deploying the line. Furthermore, it enables the Driver Operator to use a foam eductor right next to the apparatus if necessary. When loading pre-connected hose lines that have a pigtail, load the pigtail into the hose bed as a flat load first. Once the pigtail is loaded, you should then load the remaining hose line on top of the pigtail. This typically makes hose deployment a more fluid action. 2½” Blitz Line The Blitz Line on PBCFR apparatus is a pre-connected hose line that is 200’ of 2½” hose. The hose used for this line is either Hi-Combat, or Tru-ID 2.5. The Hi-Combat hose is green and white and is manufactured by the BullDog Hose Company, formerly Angus Hose. As this hose reaches its 10 year life span and/or fails the annual hose service test, it will be replaced with solid green Tru-ID 2.5 hose, manufactured by the Key Hose Company. The Tru-ID 2.5 hose is the same hose used for our standpipe bundles, which will be discussed later in this chapter. For consistency in friction loss calculations, gallons per minute, and identification purposes, do not mix and match different types, size, or color of hose. 19 The Blitz Line is primarily utilized for fire attack, as an exposure control line, or to extend an attack line when necessary. It is paired with a solid bore stack tip nozzle which is capable of flowing 200 to 300 gallons per minute at a nozzle pressure of 50 psi. This nozzle is outfitted with the following tip sizes: Tip Size Approximate GPM 1” 200 1⅛" 250 1¼” 300 On all PBCFR engines, the Blitz Line shall be pre-connected to the Right Rear discharge and loaded into the hose bed for rapid deployment. This hose line is loaded as a split load, with the first 100 feet being packed as a flat load and the second 100 feet being packed as a “Minuteman” load with the nozzle on the bottom of the stack. After the two stacks are loaded into the hose bed they are then connected together on top of the hose load. For better deployment, the “Flat Load Stack” should be loaded on the side of the hose bed that is in line with the discharge. Procedure for loading the 2½” Blitz Line:  If a pigtail is present, begin by connecting the pigtail to the Right Rear discharge and to the hose line.  Next, pre-load the pigtail in a flat load against the divider on the left side of the allotted space. By pre-loading the pigtail it will ensure that the “dump bight”, described below, will actually dump the hose rather than pull tight against the discharge connection. This is especially important when the discharge is located inside the hose bed and not on the back of the apparatus.  The first 100’ of hose shall be loaded as a flat load against the divider on the left side of the hose bed. Important: The third fold of this flat load should extend past the end of the hose bed and must be longer than all other folds in this stack. This enables firefighters to grab this stack with a gloved hand. This fold is referred to as the “dump bight” as pictured here.  For now, leave the male coupling of the flat load stack uncoupled and on top of this stack. 20   Begin loading the second 100’ stack of 2½” hose by attaching the male end of the hose to the nozzle and securing the nozzle to the back of the apparatus on the designated mounts.  Starting with the nozzle end of the hose, load the hose in a common flat load along the right divider or wall of the designated space in the hose bed.  When all of the hose is loaded, connect the female coupling from the “Minuteman Stack” to the open male coupling from the “Flat Load Stack”. The coupling connection should remain on top of the load near the center of the hose bed. When loading the Minuteman Stack, try to keep the 50’ coupling out of the middle third section of this stack. If the coupling is in the middle third section of the hose it raises the center of gravity of the stack and makes it more difficult to manage while it is being carried on a shoulder. Deploying the 2½”Blitz Line: Deploying the Blitz Line can be easily done by a single firefighter, or by two crew members. To deploy the hose line by yourself, load the nozzle and the “Minuteman Stack” onto your shoulder. Next, grab the “dump bight” and pull the “Flat Load Stack” onto the ground behind the apparatus. The firefighter should keep the 100’ “Minuteman” load on their shoulder as they stretch the other 100’ of hose out from the apparatus. With the hose loaded as a “Minuteman”, the firefighter can continue to walk away from the apparatus beyond the 100’ point with the hose carried on their shoulder. As they continue to walk away from the apparatus, the hose will drop off one flake at a time until the full 200’ of hose is deployed. If the firefighter reaches the point of attack while the “Minuteman” stack is still on their shoulder, they can simply drop the hose on the ground where they stand and prepare for fire attack. Prior to calling for water, the hose should quickly be flaked out to avoid kinks. 21  A 50 foot section of 2½” Hi-Combat hose contains 16.9 gallons & weighs 173.7 pounds (including the weight of the hose). ------------------------------------------------------------ A 50 foot section of 2½” Tru-ID 2.5 hose contains 12.8 gallons & weighs 136.8 pounds (including the weight of the hose). Tru-ID 2.5 Standpipe Bundles In addition to the 2½” Blitz Line, each PBCFR suppression unit also carries four 50’ sections of Tru-ID 2½” hose. This hose is the same hose that will be replacing the Hi-Combat hose on our Blitz Line as mentioned above. It is solid green in color and is manufactured by the Key Hose Company. Each 50’ section of hose is packed as a Standpipe Bundle for easy deployment. One of the four bundles on each apparatus shall be outfitted with an 1⅛” solid bore nozzle, which is capable of flowing 250 gpm at 50 psi nozzle pressure. The standpipe bundles are also paired with a standpipe bag which contains a 2½” elbow with bleeder, a gate valve, a 2½” inline gauge and tools to adjust field adjustable PRVs. While the primary purpose of these bundles is for rapid deployment during standpipe operations, they may also be useful as an additional 2½” attack line, as an exposure line, or to extend the length of the Blitz Line if necessary. Before distribution, each section of Tru-ID hose was marked in the middle with red paint to assist with the deployment process. This marker can also be used as a guide to help when packing the bundles. Procedure for packing the standpipe bundles:  Begin by placing the hose in a “U” shape with the couplings evenly lined up with one another.  Grasp the hose in the center at the red marking and walk it to the couplings as shown here. The hose should now form an “M” shape with the hose extended slightly beyond the couplings. Make sure there are no twists in the hose. 22   Next, grab each fold in the “M”, one at a time, and bring it to the couplings. Make sure that these folds are even with the couplings as shown here.  To finish the load, bring all of the folds together tightly in an accordion style hose load. With the hose gathered together, bring the male coupling around the top of the center red marker and couple it together with the female coupling as shown here. Keep in mind, when coupling the hose together, it is important to only turn the threads two or three turns so the hose lines can quickly and easily be assembled and deployed on an emergency scene. With the hose folded and coupled together in this fashion, it is now ready for the straps to be applied. It is imperative that the straps are applied as described below. This will enable firefighters to easily remove them in low visibility with a gloved hand. Procedure for applying the straps:  The first strap should be placed just behind the female coupling. When placing the strap on the hose, make sure that it is cinched tightly. Also, always make sure the red tab is on the outside edge of the bundle as shown here.  The second strap should be placed about a foot away from the first strap. This will allow the hose to bend easily in the center for a shoulder carry or to be carried over an airpack bottle. Again, the strap must be cinched tight and the red tab must be facing in the same direction as the first strap.  When placing the third and final strap on the standpipe bundle, it is important that you first bend the bundle as shown here, before putting the strap in place. 23   After placing a bend in the bundle, the third strap should be placed in line with the first strap. Again it is imperative that the strap is cinched tightly and the red tab must be facing in the same direction as the first two straps. Three of the four bundles will be packed without the nozzle as described above. The fourth standpipe bundle will be packed with the 1⅛” solid bore nozzle attached to the male coupling. The hose bundle with the nozzle is packed in the same manner as the other three, the only difference is that you will not be connecting the male and female couplings together. Instead, the nozzle will stay on one side of the bundle and the female coupling will be on the other side as shown below. When packing the bundle with the nozzle, the first strap is placed below the couplings and cinched tightly as shown here. As with all other bundles, the red tab should be downward on the outside of the hose on the side with the female coupling. The second and third straps are placed in the same manner as all other standpipe bundles, ensuring that all of the straps are facing in the same direction. 1¾” Crosslays PBCFR apparatus are equipped with two pre-connected 1¾” crosslays. Each line is 200 feet in length and is loaded in either a Triple Layer “S” load or a side by side “Minuteman” load. There are currently two types of hose in use for the crosslays. The first is Hi- Combat hose which is manufactured by the BullDog Hose company, formerly Angus Hose. This hose is either red and white or yellow and white, depending on which discharge it is on and which nozzle it is paired with. The second type of hose utilized for the 1¾” pre-connects is Ponn Conquest, which is manufactured by the Snap-tite Hose Company. This hose will be solid red or solid yellow, again depending on which discharge it is on and which nozzle it is paired with. For consistency in friction loss calculations, gallons per minute, and identification purposes, do not mix and match different types, size, or color of hose. Note: If pigtails are present, they may be a different color than the hose line itself. The “red line” on PBCFR apparatus is equipped with a 15/16” solid bore nozzle which flows 185 gpm at a nozzle pressure of 50 psi. 24 The “yellow line” on PBCFR apparatus is currently outfitted with an Elkhart Chief combination nozzle. This nozzle is capable of flowing 150 gpm through the fog tip and 185 gpm through a 15/16” solid bore nozzle. Regardless of the tip, the nozzle pressure is 50 psi. This keeps consistency with both pre-connects having a low pressure nozzle. Ponn Conquest Hose Hi Combat Hose Color coding the hose line to match with the appropriate nozzle enables easy identification on the fireground during the day or night. Note: Although the hose and nozzle may match each other, the hose line may or may not coincide with the discharge color on the apparatus. PBCFR is currently in the process of color coding the 1¾” discharges to also match the hose and nozzle, however, this process will take time to complete across the entire fleet. In addition to the 1½” nozzles that are on the pre-connected crosslays, each apparatus should also be equipped with an 1½” TFT automatic fog nozzle located in the DO compartment. This nozzle can be used for fire attack if desired, but more importantly, this nozzle should be used any time you are using the foam eductor and/or flowing a foam blanket from one of the pre-connects. For optimal results, when flowing 3-6% foam solution always attach the foam jet to the nozzle. Per PBCFR SOG #420-01 Fire Attack Operations the 1¾” pre-connected crosslays are used as an initial attack line on fires when flows of 200 gpm or less are sufficient (ie: one room on fire). On larger fires where flows of greater than 200 gpm are required (ie: fire extended beyond the room of origin), the Blitz Line should be used as the attack line. Reminder, the 2½” Blitz Line is equipped with a solid bore nozzle capable of flowing from 200 to 300 gpm. Like the Hi-combat hose on the Blitz Line, as the 1¾” Hi-combat hose reaches its 10 year life span, and/or fails the hose service test, it is being replaced. The replacement hose is the Ponn Conquest hose mentioned above. It is very important to note that the friction loss in these two types of 1¾” hose is not the 25 same. Refer to the PBCFR DO Manual for the friction loss of all hose carried on PBCFR apparatus. A 50 foot section of 1¾” hose contains 6.3 gallons & weighs 72.5 pounds (including the weight of the hose – Hi-Combat & Ponn Conquest) Procedure for loading the 1¾” crosslay in a Triple Layer S load:  First, ensure that the all hose lengths are completely drained of water and then connect all couplings so that you have a continuous 200’ hose line attached to the apparatus or pigtail, if present. Set the nozzle aside to be attached after the hose is loaded.  Extend the entire 200’ hose lay out from the apparatus and ensure that there are no twists in the hose line.  One firefighter should grasp the hose line approximately two thirds of the way out along the hose line (about 132 feet) and bring the hose back to the apparatus. By doing so this will create two folds in the hose line – one at the apparatus and one at the nozzle end.  With one firefighter at the apparatus and one firefighter at the end of the hose line, the two should work together to create three equal layers of hose neatly stacked on top of each other.  Once the hose is neatly stacked in three layers and the far fold lines up with the male coupling at the end of the hose line, the hose is ready to be loaded onto the apparatus.  If a pigtail is present, pre-load it into the hose bed before loading the hose line.  Next, begin loading the crosslay onto the apparatus as a “triple layer” flat load. Note: When loading the hose, take care to keep all three layers of hose tightly together.  When crossing the hose line from one side of the crosslay space to the other, do so in the center of the hose bed so that the folds on each side of the apparatus are neat and tidy. 26   Once all of the hose is loaded onto the apparatus, attach the nozzle to the hose line, secure the nozzle, and secure the covers for the hose storage area. If using the side by side Minuteman load for the 1¾” pre-connected crosslay, it is loaded in a similar manner to the 2½” Blitz Line. The first 100 feet of hose is loaded as a flat load stack with a pair of bights built into it to enable easy deployment from either side of the apparatus with a gloved hand. The second 100 feet is loaded as a Minuteman stack with the nozzle on the bottom of the stack. Note: When loading 1¾” hose in this fashion, the pigtail is typically removed to accommodate the hose with a better fit into the designated crosslay space. Procedure for loading the 1¾” crosslay in a Minuteman load:  Begin by attaching the hose directly to the discharge and loading the first 100’ of 1¾” hose in a flat load along the back wall of the crosslay space.  When loading the flat load section of hose, a longer bight or “dog ear” should be put into place on both sides of the apparatus on every 3rd fold. By doing this, it enables firefighters to easily pull the entire 100’ flat load stack of hose out of the hose bed with a gloved hand.  After loading the first 100’ of hose on the supply side of the crosslay, leave the male coupling on top of the stack to be attached to the Minuteman stack after it is loaded.  To ensure that the hose will fit perfectly into the designated space for the crosslay on our apparatus, crews should build the Minuteman stack on the ground and then load the stack onto the apparatus.  When building the Minuteman stack on the ground, use a NY roof hook as a guide for length to ensure that it fits perfectly onto the apparatus. For the red line the male coupling should be lined up with the head of the roof hook as shown here.  When creating your stack, the hose should be laid out next to the roof hook and all folds on the nozzle side of the stack should be uniform and lined up with the tip of the nozzle as shown in the photo on page 28.  The opposite end of the Minuteman stack, should be laid out so that every 3rd fold extends beyond the others to form a “dump bight” or “dog ear” style fold. These longer folds make it easier for a firefighter to pull the hose out of the bed from either 27  side of the apparatus with a gloved hand. See the photo below as a reference.  Finish the stack by placing straps on both ends of the hose load so that it can be easily packed and deployed onto a firefighter’s shoulder.  A tail can be left out of the straps at the female end of the Minuteman stack so that the female coupling can be easily connected to the male coupling in the hose bed.  When packing the yellow line, the first 100’ is packed exactly like the first 100’ of the red line.  The second 100’ of the yellow line is packed in a slightly different way to prevent the bale of the nozzle from getting hung up on deployment. When packing the yellow line, the male coupling should extend past the head of the NY roof hook about 2 feet as shown here.  The rest of the Minuteman stack is packed exactly like the red line. Every 3rd fold should extend beyond the other folds on the side of the stack that does not have the nozzle. This enables easy deployment with a gloved hand from either side of the apparatus.  When finishing this stack, the nozzle should be folded over the top of the stack and straps should be placed tightly on each end as shown here. 28 1¾” Front Bumper Line (formerly known as Trash Line) In addition to the 1¾” crosslays, PBCFR engines are also equipped with an 1¾” Front Bumper Line. This hose line is pre-connected and mounted on the front bumper of the apparatus. The hose is green and white or solid green depending on the type of hose. The standard length for this hose line is 100 feet, however, some units have added an additional 50 or 100 feet to this hose line based on battalion needs and the area covered. The Front Bumper Line is equipped with either an 1½” TFT fog nozzle which is capable of flowing 70-200 gpm at 100 psi nozzle pressure, or the Elkhart Chief combination nozzle, which is the same nozzle used on our “yellow line” crosslay. This hose line is utilized for fire attack and is useful on car fires, shed fires, dumpster fires, and brush fires among other things. Typically, the Front Bumper Line is packed in an accordion load, but some units have adapted the load to suit their needs. Alternative options include flat load, flat load with bights beneath the hose perpendicularly, 50’ with straps in addition to the 100’ load, 50’ rolled in addition to the 100’ load. Regardless of how the hose is packed, the important thing is that this hose line can be rapidly deployed for fire attack. As with any attack line, to avoid kinks always remove the entire hose load from the bed before charging the line. **Reference videos on how to pack various 1¾” hose loads (crosslays and front bumper line) are located on Target Solutions and the PBCFR YouTube channel.** 1½” Forestry Hose The pre-connected attack lines on PBCFR Brush Trucks are equipped with either 1½” or 1¾” hose, depending on the unit. The department is currently in the process of replacing all 1½” hose with 1¾” hose. During this transition you may still encounter 1½” hose on some units. When the transition is complete there will be a minimum of 200’ of 1¾” pre-connected hose on all PBCFR Brush Trucks. These attack lines will be equipped with either a TFT QuadraFog nozzle, or with the same TFT automatic fog nozzle that is carried on our engines. The QuadraFog nozzle is a selectable gallonage nozzle with a flow range from 30-125 gpm. The automatic fog nozzle flows from 70-200 gpm. The nozzle pressure for both is 100 psi. 29 Maximum Efficient Flow in Fire Hose When discussing fire hose, it is important to Critical Velocity of Hose understand the limitations of each size hose. The maximum efficient flow, also referred to Hose Size GPM as “critical velocity”, is the maximum amount 5” 1200 of water that can be forced through a fire hose 3” 500 before the fire stream breaks up and becomes ineffective. The table shown here lists the 2½” 300 critical velocity for the different sizes of hose 1¾” 200 carried on PBCFR apparatus. Although these 1½” 125 flows are the industry standard, they are conservative approximations and should be used as a guideline. Note: It may be possible to move more water through each size hose line if needed. Booster Reel The Booster Reel on PBCFR apparatus is equipped with two 100 foot sections of 1” rubber booster hose. These hose lines are outfitted with a TFT Ultimatic fog nozzle capable of flowing from 10 to 125 gpm at 100 psi nozzle pressure. While these hose lines are useful for wash downs, gross decontamination, and small grass fires, per PBCFR SOG #420-01 Fire Attack Operations and for the general safety of personnel, the Booster Reel shall NOT to be used for fire attack operations. Booster Reels are mounted on many, but not all, PBCFR engines. If equipped with a Booster Reel, a manual rewind handle shall also be provided. Additionally, for safety reasons the nozzle must be fastened and secured to the apparatus when not in use. Decontamination Hose All PBCFR suppression units shall be stocked with a brush-fire flat hose equipped with a garden style nozzle capable of creating a high flow, low pressure water stream. This hose is 50 feet in length and is designed for use during Post Fire Gross Decontamination. In addition to the hose and nozzle, the apparatus shall be equipped with other equipment used for the decontamination process and a green traffic cone to identify the location of the decontamination station on an emergency scene. 30 When using the Decon Hose on scene and performing Post Fire Gross Decontamination, there are a few important things to remember:  The Gross Decon process shall be utilized on all fires where PPE is worn and exposed to products of combustion, whether it is an emergency incident or a training evolution.  The Driver Operator shall ensure that the apparatus tank water or any water used in the Gross Decon process is from a clean municipal water source (hydrant) and is not stagnant or contaminated water.  Prior to using any discharge for Decon, make sure that there is no foam in the line. This is especially pertinent on the E-One engines due to the WATP foam system. As a reminder, any personnel performing gross decontamination shall be wearing full PPE and on air. **For more information, refer to SOG #420-07 Post Fire Gross Decontamination.** Hard Suction All PBCFR Engines and Brush Trucks are equipped with a minimum of 20’ of hard suction hose (also known as Draft Hose). In addition, the Tenders in our fleet carry 30’ of hard suction hose. Each section of hard suction is 10’ in length and shall be appropriately sized to the apparatus to deliver the pump’s capacity. Engines and Tenders are equipped with 6” hose while Brush Trucks carry either 3” or 4” hose. Any apparatus that is equipped with hard suction hose shall also have a suction strainer for the hose. Additionally, it is recommended that you stock the apparatus with extra gaskets for the hard suction hose. Any time that the hard suction is not in use, it shall be fastened and secured to the apparatus so that it does not move or come loose when the apparatus is in motion. At NO TIME shall hard suction hose be connected to a pressurized water source. 31 Hose Covers For the purpose of safety and as is required by NFPA 1901, the Standard for Automotive Fire Apparatus, all hose beds and hose storage areas on PBCFR apparatus shall have a cover and a means of securing the hose in place. Per NFPA 1901, any hose storage area shall be equipped with a positive means to prevent unintentional deployment of the hose from the top, sides, front, and rear of the hose storage area while the apparatus is underway in normal conditions. General Care of Fire Hose While the nature of the fire service often puts fire hose to the test, it is the responsibility of each crew member to do their part in protecting all of the equipment on the apparatus from damage. Proper care and maintenance of fire hose is no exception. In fact, it is the foundation to keeping the hose in a constant state of readiness. One of the best ways to extend the life of fire hose is to ensure that it gets proper care after all fires, when in storage, and while it is stowed on the apparatus. Below is a list of things that may help improve the performance and longevity of fire hose: All hose shall be cleaned after use. If dirt cannot be brushed from the hose or if the hose came in contact with harmful materials, it shall be washed with warm water and mild detergent. Do not pull or lay hose over rough surfaces or sharp objects. Avoid placing hose near the apparatus exhaust. Do not allow any vehicles to drive over hose. If necessary, use hose ramps. Use chafing blocks to prevent abrasion of the hose from vibration on the ground. Open and close all nozzles and discharge gates slowly to prevent water hammer. When loading hose into the hose bed, change the location of bends so the hose does not acquire a “memory”. Periodically run water through hoses that have not been used for a long time. 32  Avoid laying hose on hot pavement to dry. Keep the hose bed cover in place to shield the hose from direct sunlight. Avoid dragging large diameter hose when possible. If the hose must be dragged, do so when it is flat. Whenever possible remove wet woven-jacketed hose from the apparatus and replace it with dry hose to avoid mold and mildew. Whenever possible, avoid laying hose in the gutter next to the curb as these areas collect oil, or other chemicals from the roadway. Whenever possible, deploy and advance hose lines without them being charged. The weight of the water makes advancement more difficult and causes more wear on the hose. Hose Couplings All 100’ and 50’ lengths of 5” supply hose carried on PBCFR apparatus are equipped with “sexless” Storz couplings, meaning there are no male or female ends of the hose and all of the couplings on this hose can be universally coupled together at either end of the hose. PBCFR apparatus are also outfitted with a variety of shorter sections of 5” LDH supply line ranging in length from 15 to 25 feet. These shorter hose lines are designed for making a quick connection directly from the hydrant to the apparatus without having to deploy any supply line from the hose bed. Based on the purpose and use of these hose lines they are commonly equipped with one of two coupling configurations:  One setup you may encounter on the 5” LDH supply line is “sexless” Storz couplings located on both ends of the hose line. These couplings require a Storz to 4.5” adaptor to hookup to the hydrant on one end of the hose. The other end of the hose is designed for use with the Ball Intake Valve commonly pre- connected to the steamer on the driver’s side of the apparatus.  The second setup that is typically found on the 5” LDH supply line is a 6” female coupling on one end of the hose and a 4.5” female coupling on the other end. This hose can be connected directly to the 4.5” steamer on the hydrant on one end and to the front intake of the apparatus on the other end without the need for any adaptors. The threads on both of these female couplings are standard National Hose threads (NH - aka National Standard Threads - NST). Because different apparatus carry different 5” LDH hose lengths, it is essential that you are familiar with the equipment carried on the apparatus at your station. 33 All other hose sizes carried on PBCFR apparatus are equipped with male and female couplings with standard National Hose threads (NH - aka National Standard Threads - NST). All of the 3” and 2½” hose are outfitted with 2½” couplings, and all of the 1¾” and 1½” hose are outfitted with 1½” couplings. Care of hose couplings is just as important as care for the hose itself. Hose couplings should be kept clean and protected from damage whenever possible. Following these guidelines will ensure that the couplings are kept in good working order: Do not drop couplings. Do not drag couplings on the ground. Do not drive over hose couplings. Keep hose threads clean and free of debris. Inspect couplings each time the hose is washed and dried, checking the condition of the threads, swivel and gasket. When rolling hose, female couplings should be placed on the outside of the roll. This helps protect the threads on the male end of the hose. If the hose is damaged or has failed hose testing, it should be rolled with the male end out and/or tied in a knot at the male end of the hose (if applicable). Life Span of Fire Hose Per NFPA 1962, the Standard for the Care, Use, Inspection, and Replacement of Fire Hose, Couplings, Nozzles, and Fire Hose Appliances “limited testing of in-service fire hose by the Fire Equipment Manufacturers Association indicates an increased risk of failure after 10 years. The testing looked at the reduction in burst pressure, ozone degradation, linear adhesion and degradation, hose strength, normal wear patterns, and UV degradation of fibers.” The standard goes on to state “fire departments should give careful consideration to a 10-year maximum service life under normal operating conditions.” As a result of these tests and recommendation, the maximum acceptable life span for fire hose at PBCFR shall not exceed 10 years. As hose approaches its 10 year life span, the station officer shall notify their Battalion Chief (BC) with a list of 34 hose identification numbers for all hose at their station needing replacement due to age. The replacement process is similar to that used when hose fails during the annual hose service testing. Prior to contacting Support Services the BC will gather a list for the entire battalion to help streamline the process. Additionally, each BC will first canvas their individual battalion for replacement hose prior to making any requests for replacement hose. If replacement hose cannot be located within the battalion, the BC will then contact the Materials Manager at Support Services via email at [email protected]. For immediate/urgent requests, contact the Materials Manager by phone at 561-233-0864. 35 This Page Intentionally Left Blank 36  Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Hose Manual Chapter 2 Hose Identification Numbering System 37 Hose Identification Numbers (HIN) Each length of hose at Palm Beach County Fire Rescue is assigned a hose identification number Hose Size Prefix as a means to track and identify the hose. Each of 5” 5- these hose identification numbers begins with a 3” 3- prefix which is followed by a designated number assigned to the hose by the PBCFR Materials 2½” 25 - Manager. These numbers are sequential 1¾” 175 - department wide for each hose size (ie: 25-0001, 1½” 15 - 25-0002, 25-0003, etc.). 1” 1- The prefix for each hose identification number 6” Hard Suction H6 - represents the size of the hose and shall be 4” Hard Suction H4 - assigned to the hose as listed here in the table to 3” Hard Suction H3 - the right. It is the responsibility of the Materials Manager to maintain a supply of servicable hose in all approved sizes at the Fire Equipment Warehouse. This hose shall be available for replacement of any hose that is damaged, fails the annual hose service testing, or reaches its 10 year life expectancy. When any section of hose is issued to a Station or Battalion, it should arrive with the hose number stamped on both couplings and stenciled on the hose itself. The stenciled numbers are located three feet from the couplings. If for some reason a length of hose arrives without the hose number stenciled onto the hose, personnel must mark the hose number on the hose with a broad tip permanent marker. These markings should be placed on both sides of the hose approximately three feet from both couplings. Due to the corregated sides of hard suction hose, the hose number will not be stenciled on this hose. Each section of hard suction will have the prefix and hose identification number etched onto the female coupling of the hose as shown here. Before placing any new hose in service, it must pass the hose service test in accordance with this manual and NFPA 1962, Standard for the Care, Use, Inspection, Service Testing, and 38 Replacement of Fire Hose, Couplings, Nozzles, and Fire Hose Appliances. Following the test, the hose must be marked with the year and documented in the PBCFR Hose Tracking System as described in Chapter 3 of this manual (Hose Service Testing). Any new sections of hose that fail the hose service test shall be placed back in the original box and returned to the Materials Manager with a written explanation stating why the hose failed the test. Any and all new sections of hose that are issued shall be hose tested prior to placing them in service. Requesting New Hose Identification Numbers When performing the annual hose service test procedures, if you come across a section of hose that does not have a hose identification number (HIN) marked on it, keep a running list. Once the hose testing is completed, notify your Battalion Chief (BC) of all sections of hose that are missing HINs. For each section of hose, the BC will need to know the hose size, the length, and the test pressure. To streamline the process, the BC will gather information from the entire battalion before contacting Support Services. Once the entire battalion has been tabulated, the BC will reach out to the Materials Manager to issue new hose numbers as needed. Prior to issuing any new hose numbers, the Materials Manager will enter the data for each new hose identification number into the PBCFR Hose Tracking System. Once the new hose numbers are issued to each battalion, the Officer in Charge (OIC) at that station shall be responsible for marking the new hose number on the hose with a broad tipped permanent marker. The hose number shall be placed on both sides of the hose approximately three feet from both couplings. If the hose passed the annual hose service testing, it shall also be marked with the year as all other sections of hose are marked. Additionally, the OIC shall be responsible for entering the “New Test” hose test data into the PBCFR Hose Tracking System as they do with all other sections of hose each year. The procedures for documenting the annual hose test results are described in detail in Chapter 3 of this manual (Hose Service Testing). 39 This Page Intentionally Left Blank 40 Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Hose Manual Chapter 3 Hose Service Testing 41 Hose Service Testing Procedures WARNING! Testing fire hose under pressure is a dangerous task. All safety precautions must be followed and all personnel shall wear helmets, gloves and eye protection when performing any hose testing procedures. Do NOT deviate from the procedures described herein. NEVER exceed the service test pressure marked on the fire hose. All fire hose currently in service at Palm Beach County Fire Rescue shall be inspected and tested annually in accordance with this manual and NFPA 1962. A stationary pump or a fire pump on the apparatus may be used to conduct the hose service test. When using fire department apparatus you must recirculate water through the pump to keep it cool throughout the testing process. It is recommended that you connect to a fire hydrant for the test as it may be necessary to reach the high pressures associated with hose testing. Each piece of fire hose shall be visually inspected for physical damage. Any hose with holes in the outer jacket larger than one inch in diameter, or any hose where both the inner and outer jacket have been damaged shall be removed from service and forwarded for repair in accordance with procedures described in this manual. Visual inspection shall also confirm that the hose and couplings have not been vandalized, are free of debris, and exhibit no evidence of mildew, rot, or damage by chemicals, burns, cuts, abrasion or vermin. Additionally, couplings shall be visually inspected for the following defects: Damaged threads Corrosion Slippage from the hose Out of round Swivel not rotating freely Missing lugs Loose external collar Any other damage that impairs operation 42 Hose Service Test Procedure (NFPA 1962 4.8): 1. The total length of any hose line in the test layout shall not exceed 300 feet. The hose test layout shall be straight, without any bends, kinks or twists. 2. Each length of hose shall be visually inspected in accordance with the information provided above and NFPA 1962 4.5. Any hose that fails the visual inspection shall be taken out of service immediately and shall not be hose tested. 3. Following the visual inspection, attach a nozzle with a non-twist shutoff to the free end of each 300’ hose layout. 4. With the nozzle fully open, the pressure shall be raised gradually from 0 to 45 psi (± 5 psi). 5. After the hose layout is full of water, all of the air in each hose line shall be exhausted by raising the discharge end of each hose line above the highest point in the system. WARNING! It is very important to remove all of the air from the hose. Air under pressure becomes greatly compressed. The hose can whip violently if the pressure is suddenly released by a hose burst. 6. Once all of the air is removed from the hose, slowly close each nozzle. With the hose pressurized to 45 psi (± 5 psi), it shall be checked for leakage at each coupling. The couplings shall be tightened with a spanner wrench where necessary to eliminate any leaks. 7. Each hose shall now be marked with a full circumferential line at the back of each coupling with a broad tip permanent marker. This line is used to determine if there is any slippage or separation of the hose from the coupling at the completion of the test. 43 8. All personnel other than those persons required to perform the remainder of the test shall stay clear of the hose testing area. 9. All 5” fire hose shall be service tested to 200 psi or a pressure not to exceed the service test pressure marked on the fire hose. 10. All 3” fire hose shall be service tested to either 300 psi or 400 psi. Depending on the age of the hose, it will be marked with one of these pressures. Do not exceed the service test pressure that marked on the fire hose. 11. All 2½” Angus Hi-Combat fire hose shall be service tested to 300 psi or a pressure not to exceed the service test pressure marked on the fire hose. 12. All 2½” Key Tru-ID 2.5 fire hose shall be service tested to 400 psi or a pressure not to exceed the service test pressure marked on the fire hose. 13. All 1¾” fire hose shall be service tested to 300 psi or a pressure not to exceed the service test pressure marked on the fire hose. 14. All 1½” forestry fire hose shall be service tested to 300 psi or a pressure not to exceed the service test pressure marked on the hose. 15. Booster Reel hose shall be service tested to 250 psi or a pressure not to exceed the service test pressure marked on the hose. Never exceed the service test pressure marked on the fire hose. 16. The pressure shall be raised slowly at a rate not greater than 15 psi per second until the service test pressure is attained. 44 17. Each hose layout shall hold and maintain the appropriate service test pressure for 3 minutes. 18. CAUTION! You MUST circulate water through the pump at all times during the hose test. This can be achieved by cracking open the Tank Fill valve or the Deck Gun valve. If you do not circulate water during the hose test, you can cause severe damage to the pump. When circulating water through the pump, it is IMPERATIVE that the Tank Fill valve is ONLY CRACKED OPEN ENOUGH TO MOVE WATER. -------------------------------------- DO NOT EXCEED MORE THAN 100 psi THROUGH THE TANK FILL “DISCHARGE” AT ANY TIME. If you exceed 100 psi through the Tank Fill valve you may end up cracking the onboard water tank. 19. While the hose test layout is at the service test pressure, the hose shall be inpected for leaks. 20. Any personnel that are walking the lines to check for leaks shall remain at least 15 feet to the left side of the nearest hose line in the test layout. The left side of the hose line shall be defined as that side that is to the left when facing the free end (nozzle end) from the pressure source. When a rupture occurs, fire hose initially rolls to the right. 21. During the test, personnel shall never stand in front of the free end of the hose, on the right side of the hose, closer than 15 feet on the left side of the hose, or straddle any hose. 22. If the hose layout does not hold the service test pressure for the full three minute duration of the test, the test shall be terminated. Any failed length(s) of hose shall be removed and the service test shall be restarted for the remaining hose lengths. 45  23. After 3 minutes at the service test pressure, lower the pressure on the hose lines and slowly bleed the pressure from each hose line. 24. Visually inspect the lines placed on the hose at the back of the couplings for slippage. If the hose assembly shows any sign of coupling slippage, then the hose has failed the test. 25. All hose that has passed the inspection and testing process shall be marked with the last two digits of the year during which the test was performed. This marking shall be placed within 12” of the female coupling on both sides of the hose. Crews shall use a broad tip permanent marker and the characters shall be a minimum of 1” tall. 26. Document all hose testing results in the PBCFR Hose Tracking System as described later in this chapter. Hose Service Testing – Hard Suction Hose As with all other supply hose carried on PBCFR apparatus, it is essential that the Hard Suction hose also undergoes annual hose service testing. Since this hose is not designed for use under pressure, the service test procedure is quite a bit different than it is for traditional fire hose. Rather than holding a certain amount of pressure for a specified time, Hard Suction hose must hold a certain amount of vacuum for a specified time. To be exact, all Hard Suction hose must be capable of holding a vacuum of 22 in. Hg for 10 minutes time in order to pass the annual hose service test. Procedure for testing Hard Suction hose (NFPA 1961 4.5, NFPA 1962 4.10): 1. Drain the pump completely using both steamers. 2. Remove any external Ball Intake Valves (BIV) from the steamer and remove any LDH supply hose from the front intake. 3. Close all intake and discharge valves and tightly place plugs and caps on all intakes and discharges. 4. Confirm that gaskets are present and tightly couple all sections of Hard Suction hose together. 46  5. Place a steamer cap tightly on the male end of the Hard Suction hose and place the hose assembly onto one of the steamers on the apparatus. 6. Tightly place caps on the other steamer and on the front intake. 7. The engine must be running, and the pump should not be in gear. 8. Operate the primer until the Master Intake gauge reads 22 in. Hg or the highest vacuum reading that it will obtain. Do not operate the primer for more than 45 seconds at a time, as this may overheat the electric primer motor. Allow the primer to cool for a minute and then repeat if needed. Note: If using an air primer, it may require extra time to build air pressure back up within the system. 9. Once a vacuum has been established, the hose shall maintain that vacuum for 10 minutes with no loss of vacuum. 10. While holding the vacuum, the interior of the hose shall be inspected for signs of physical damage or collapse of the lining into the waterway. Note: If the hose is not transparent, inspection shall be done immediately following the vacuum test. 11. Any signs of physical damage or collapse of the lining into the waterway indicates that the hose has failed. 12. Troubleshoot any leaks to confirm that they are within the pump and/or system rather than the hard suction hose assembly. 13. Document the results in the PBCFR Hose Tracking System. At NO TIME shall hard suction hose be connected to a pressurized water source. Additionally, per NFPA 1961, Standard on Fire Hose, the hard suction hose assembly shall be indelibly marked in letters no less than 3/16” high with the words “for vacuum use only". Note: If your apparatus failed the Dry Vacuum Test during the annual pump testing, you will have to use another unit to perform the vacuum test on the hard suction. Whichever apparatus you use to test the hard suction with must have passed the Dry Vacuum Test during the annual pump testing. 47 Documenting the Results In accordance with NFPA 1962, Standard for the Care, Use, Inspection, Service Testing, and Replacement of Fire Hose, Couplings, Nozzles, and Fire Hose Appliances, all department hose testing records shall be documented and maintained for each section of hose in operation. To facilitate this Palm Beach County Fire Rescue has developed the PBCFR Hose Tracking System for the purpose of documenting the annual hose service testing results. This system is web based and the link can be found on the main page of the PBCFR Share Point website under the “Online Applications” column on the left side of the main page. Access shall be granted to those in the rank of Captain and above. To log into the system you will use your Outlook e-mail account credentials. The new system is designed to be user friendly and to keep accurate and up to date hose testing records. Each Battalion is responsible for testing all of the hose within that battalion, to include any hose located on battalion spare engines, and hose stored on any station hose rack. Each station officer shall document the hose testing results in accordance with the procedure below. As mentioned above, the link for the new hose testing system is located on the PBCFR Share Point website and is listed here: http://fire-web.pbcfr.org/hosetesting/default Hose Test Documentation Procedure: 1. Begin by logging into the system using your PBCFR Outlook email username and password as shown here: 48 2. Once you have logged into the system you will see the Welcome Page. Click on the “Home” button near the upper left portion of the page as indicated below: Welcome Page 3. Next you will see the Home Page. This page will display ALL of the hose test data within the system. For each individual section of hose you will see the Prefix and Hose Number, the Size of the hose, the Length of the hose, the Unit it is carried on, the Station it is located at, and whether it Passed or Failed the annual hose test procedure. You will also see some dates listed to the right, which are used for administrative purposes. Home Page 4. From the Home Page you can search by Hose Number, Unit, or Station as needed by typing a specific hose number, unit or station in the blank search bar above each respective column. For example, by typing “51” in the Station search bar we can see all of the hose test data from Station 51 as shown below: 49 5. As shown above, after searching by the station number the screen will display each section of hose that is located at Station 51. Any hose that is located on the hose rack will be listed as “STA”. Any hose that is located on the apparatus will be listed with the apparatus designation, for example “E51”. 6. Once the data you have searched for is displayed on the screen you can now enter new test results for the current year. To enter the results of a new hose test for any piece of hose, simply click on the plus sign symbol to the left of the hose number that you have tested as shown below: 50 7. After clicking on the plus button a new window will appear below the general details for that section of hose. This window will display all current testing data for that section of hose as shown below. This window is also where you will add any new hose test results for that particular section of hose. 8. To enter new hose test results, click on the far left of the window where it says “New Test” as indicated with the arrow above. 9. After clicking on the “New Test” button a new window will pop up in the center of the page as shown below: 51 10. To enter the new hose test results for the chosen section of hose, use the drop down menu on the right to enter the date that the hose testing was completed as shown below: 11. After entering the date, use the drop down menu to document whether the hose passed or failed the test as shown below: 52 12. If any section of hose is marked as Fail, you MUST put the reason for the failure in the “Comment” section indicated below. Examples: hose burst, coupling slippage, hole >1” in outer jacket, hose 10 years old, won’t hold vacuum, etc. 13. After entering the Date, Pass/Fail, and Comment (if necessary), you must click on the “Update” button to save your information. See the photo below. If you make a mistake while entering the data, simply click the “Cancel” button instead and it will discard your changes for that section of hose. 14. Repeat this process for each section of hose that you have tested. 53 Duplicate/Missing Hose Identification Numbers Although it is not ideal, there are some duplicate hose numbers in service at PBCFR. When searching through the Hose Tracking System, if you see the letter “a”, “b”, or “c” after any hose number this indicates that it is a duplicate hose number. Document the new test results as you would for any other section of hose. Note: You will not see this letter designation stamped on the hose itself. Be aware, it is possible for a section of hose to end up on a different apparatus from one year to the next. Sometimes during cleanup after a fire, with many hands helping, the hose may inadvertently get swapped from one unit to another. While searching the hose testing database, if you have a section of hose on the apparatus that is not listed under your station or unit, you can always search for that specific section of hose by the hose number. In this case, after entering the test results, it is imperative that you contact the IT help desk or the Driver Coordinator to update the location of that section of hose. Additionally, if you find a section of hose on the apparatus that is not listed in the computer system, notify the IT help desk or the Driver Coordinator and they will enter the data into the new system. Note: Any time you receive a brand new section of hose it will be entered into the Hose Tracking System by the PBCFR Materials Manager prior to being issued out at the station level. As a reminder, all new hose must be tested prior to it being placed in service. All data from the 2021 PBCFR hose testing process has been entered into the new Hose Tracking System. If you need to access any hose testing records from previous years, these records will remain on file in the S-Drive, in a folder titled “Hose Testing”. Damaged or Failed Hose (excluding 5”) Any hose that is damaged and/or fails the annual hose service testing shall be taken out of service immediately. The hose shall be rolled with the male end out and an Equipment Repair Tag shall be placed on the hose with a note indicating what the problem is, or why the hose failed. Additionally, the hose should be flagged with a piece of fire line tape for easy identification. Do not cut the couplings off any section of hose. Any damaged or failed sections of hose shall be documented in the PBCFR Hose Tracking System as “Fail” and a brief explanation of why it failed shall be placed in the “Comments” field of the system. Examples: hose burst, coupling slippage, hole >1” in outer jacket, hose 10 years old, won’t hold vacuum, etc. Once the information is documented in the Hose Tracking System, the station officer shall forward a list of hose identification numbers for all damaged or failed sections of hose to 54 the Battalion Chief (BC). This correspondence should also include any associated requests for replacement hose. To streamline the process, the BC will gather information from the entire battalion before contacting Support Services. Once the entire battalion has been tabulated and all hose identification numbers have been compiled, the BC will collect the damaged/failed hose and will generate a Fixed Asset Transfer (FAT) form per PBCFR policy #FR-S-606 Fixed Assets Procedure. Prior to making any requests for replacement hose, each BC will first canvas their individual battalions for replacement hose. If replacement hose cannot be located within the battalion, the BC will then contact the Materials Manager at Support Services via email at [email protected]. For immediate/urgent requests, contact the Materials Manager by phone at 561-233-0864. The Materials Manager shall distribute replacement hose to each battalion accordingly. Any new sections of hose will be entered into the PBCFR Hose Tracking System prior to distribution. As a reminder, all new replacement hose lengths must be tested and documented in accordance with this manual and NFPA 1962 prior to placing it in service. Damaged or Failed 5” Supply Hose Any 5” supply hose that is damaged and/or fails the annual hose service testing shall be taken out of service immediately. The hose shall be rolled and the outside end of the roll shall be tied in a knot. An Equipment Repair Tag shall be placed on the hose with a note indicating what the problem is, or why the hose failed. Additionally, the hose should be flagged with a piece of fire line tape for easy identification. Do not cut the couplings off any section of hose. The damaged or failed section of hose shall be documented in the PBCFR Hose Tracking System as “Fail” and a brief explanation of why it failed shall be placed in the “Comments” field of the system. Examples: hose burst, coupling slippage, hole >1” in outer jacket, hose 10 years old, won’t hold vacuum, etc. As with all other hose sizes, once the information is documented in the Hose Tracking System, the station officer shall forward a list of hose identification numbers for all damaged or failed sections of hose to the Battalion Chief (BC). This correspondence should also include any associated requests for replacement hose. To streamline the process, the BC will gather information from the entire battalion before contacting Support Services. Once the entire battalion has been tabulated and all hose identification numbers have been compiled, the BC will collect the damaged/failed 5” hose and will deliver it to the Materials Manager at Support Services. Prior to making any requests for replacement hose, each BC will first canvas their 55 individual battalions for replacement hose. If replacement hose cannot be located within the battalion, the BC will then contact the Materials Manager at Support Services via email at [email protected]. For immediate/urgent requests, contact the Materials Manager by phone at 561-233-0864. The Materials Manager shall distribute replacement hose to each battalion accordingly. Any new sections of hose will be entered into the PBCFR Hose Tracking System prior to distribution. As a reminder, all new replacement hose lengths must be tested and documented in accordance with this manual and NFPA 1962 prior to placing it in service. Once the failed/damaged 5” supply hose reaches Support Services it is handled differently than all other hose in operation. Because the 5” supply hose comes in longer lengths and we have the ability to re-couple it, it is possible that part of the hose may be salvaged for future use. Depending on the length of the hose, and the location of the failure/damage, it may be possible for a section of 5” hose to be cut into one or two shorter sections of hose. This course of action shall be determined and performed by trained PBCFR apparatus technicians only. NO EXCEPTIONS! PBCFR apparatus technicians have been specially trained to cut 50 and/or 100 foot sections of 5” supply hose into shorter lengths and place new couplings on the hose. However, it is important to note that any section of hose that has been shortened, split in two, or recoupled must be hose tested prior to placing it back in service. If less than 10 feet of hose is removed from any 50 or 100 foot section of 5” supply hose, the hose will be marked at each end to indicate the new length of the hose. This section of hose shall keep its original hose identification number and shall be hose tested prior to being placed back in service. If more than 10 feet of hose must be removed from any 50 or 100 foot section of 5” supply hose, the hose may be shortened to 25 or 50 foot lengths or may be split into two distinct sections of hose as needed. Any section of hose that has been split in two and recoupled shall be given two new unique hose identification numbers. These hose identification numbers will be entered into the PBCFR Hose Tracking System prior to distribution. The original hose identification number for this hose should already have been documented in the Hose Tracking System as “Fail” upon arrival at Support Services. The Materials Manager will also document in the system that this hose has been split in two. If Support Services is unable to repair a section of 5” supply hose, a Fixed Asset Transfer (FAT) form shall be generated for that hose length per PBCFR policy #FR-S-606 Fixed Assets Procedure. 56  Appendix A Quick Reference Table for PBCFR Hose Testing Hose Size Test Pressure Time 5” 200 psi 3 minutes 3” 300 / 400 psi 3 minutes 2.5” 300 psi 3 minutes Tru-ID 2.5” 400 psi 3 minutes 1.75” 300 psi 3 minutes 1.5” 300 psi 3 minutes Booster Reel 250 psi 3 minutes Hard Suction 22 in. Hg 10 minutes Print and laminate for use during the annual hose testing. 57 This Page Intentionally Left Blank 58 59 60