6 Performing Apparatus Check-Out and Maintenance 6 Knowledge Objectives (1 of 4) • Describe the inspection and maintenance procedures required by your fire department. • Describe the inspection and maintenance procedures recommended by the manufacturer on each of the fire apparatus that you will be required to inspect, test, or maintain. • Describe the items on the written inspection and maintenance forms required to be completed by your fire department. 6 Knowledge Objectives (2 of 4) • Describe the procedures to be followed when an inspection reveals maintenance problems beyond the scope of the driver/operator’s abilities. • Describe the type of problems found during the inspection and routine maintenance of fire apparatus that warrant taking the fire apparatus or equipment out of service. • Describe the equipment carried on fire apparatus that requires inspection and maintenance. 6 Knowledge Objectives (3 of 4) • Describe the routine maintenance procedures or adjustments to be completed by the driver/operator. • Describe the maintenance procedures and items that will be performed by specially trained personnel other than the driver/operator. • Describe the process to initiate required maintenance procedures. 6 Knowledge Objectives (4 of 4) • Describe the schedule for routine inspection and maintenance procedures for all fire apparatus and equipment that the driver/operator will be responsible for inspecting, maintaining, or testing. 6 Skills Objectives • Perform the daily inspection of fire apparatus and equipment in a safe and effective manner. 6 Introduction (1 of 4) • Driver/operator duties – Safely drive apparatus – Operate equipment on apparatus – Inspect and maintain apparatus 6 Introduction (2 of 4) • Apparatus must be ready to respond and perform on the emergency scene as it was designed. – Apparatus equipped with pump must be capable of flowing water at required pressures. 6 Introduction (3 of 4) • Quality preventive maintenance program ensures that: – Apparatus are adequately maintained by qualified and trained personnel. – Vehicles are inspected regularly by those who use them. – Documentation is accurate and complete. 6 Introduction (4 of 4) • Many departments perform inspections at least daily. – Apparatus must be maintained and ready to respond to emergencies on a moment’s notice. – Safety is the most important and obvious reason for regular inspections. 6 Inspection (1 of 10) • Inspection involves an evaluation of the apparatus and equipment to ensure safe operation. – Inspection should be planned, methodical, and performed in an organized manner. – Driver/operators conduct inspections: • At the start of the shift • When apparatus is being put into service after repairs • After a large incident when apparatus was used extensively at an emergency scene 6 Inspection (2 of 10) • Inspection process identifies deficiencies with apparatus or equipment that might limit apparatus from performing as required. • Most inspections are performed by one qualified individual. This ensures accuracy and thoroughness. 6 Inspection (3 of 10) • Driver/operator must have a basic knowledge and skills related to vehicle maintenance to perform the inspection. – Driver/operator should be able to identify problems before they become critical safety issues. – Refer to the department’s inspection procedures before attempting repairs to the apparatus. 6 Inspection (4 of 10) • Conducting an inspection requires basic vehicle maintenance equipment and tools. – Every station should have the basic tools to aid in performing an inspection. – Driver/operator should have access to replacement fluids to maintain the fluid levels of the apparatus. 6 Inspection (5 of 10) • Driver/operator performing inspections, tests, and maintenance must know the department operating procedures plus the apparatus manufacturer’s recommendations. – NFPA 1901, Standard for Automotive Fire Apparatus, requires the manufacturer to provide documentation for the entire apparatus and each operating system. 6 Inspection (6 of 10) • Documentation includes: – – – – – – Manufacturer’s name and address Country of manufacture Source of service and technical information Parts replacement information Descriptions and specifications of parts Wiring diagrams for low-voltage and line-voltage systems – Lubrication charts – Operating instructions 6 Inspection (7 of 10) • Documentation includes (continued): – Instructions regarding frequency and procedure for maintenance – Overall fire apparatus operating instructions – Safety considerations – Limitations of use – Inspection procedures 6 Inspection (8 of 10) • Documentation includes (continued): – Recommended service procedures – Troubleshooting guide – Fire apparatus component warranties – Copies of required manufacturer test data or reports – MSDS for fluid specified for use on apparatus 6 Inspection (9 of 10) • Driver/operator should use department’s procedures and manufacturer’s recommendations to help properly maintain apparatus – Specific fluids are required to ensure proper functioning. – Driver/operator must adhere to the manufacturer’s specification when adding fluids or he/she risks damaging the equipment. 6 Inspection (10 of 10) • Driver/operator must have tasks made clear and well understood before inspecting the apparatus. – Driver/operator must consider safety. – Each department is responsible for training members on how to inspect the apparatus safely and thoroughly. – Always wear proper PPE during the inspection. 6 Inspection Process (1 of 7) • Review the inspection form completed after the previous inspection. – Inspection form is essential for maintaining an accurate record of apparatus condition. – Document identifies who did inspection and when. – Report identifies damaged or repaired equipment and other preventive maintenance performed. 6 Inspection Process (2 of 7) Month Ending Miles Year Ending hours Apparatus # Starting Miles Starting hours Daily Checks Initials Primary / Daily Checks 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Visual / Tire Condition Check Cab / Seatbelts / Fuel Level Passports / Portables / Radios Engine Oil / Belts / Radiator CAFS oil / Foam level Lights / Siren / Horn Water Tank Level Breathing Apparatus KB Keys/Maps/Resource Books Defibrillator General Equipment Weekly Checks System Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 System A.T.F. S uspension Power steering Transfer Case Brake Fluid / Air Pump Operation Bleed Air Tanks Water Lines Charge Gauge Relief Valve Oil Gauge Primer Fluid Level Thermostat Gauge Ladders / Ropes Windows / Wipers Tire Pressures Batteries ( page 2 ) Front Tires Warning Devices Inside/Outside Duals Undercarriage Left Duals Right Duals Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Left Right Left Right Left Right Left Right Left Right In Out In Out In Out In Out In Out 6 Inspection Process (3 of 7) • Bothell Fire and EMS attaches an inspection form to a clipboard and stores it on the apparatus. – Driver/operators from different shifts should communicate about the apparatus and problems at morning tie-in. – Taken with previous information, the current inspection could reveal a need for a qualified person to inspect the vehicle for defects. 6 Inspection Process (4 of 7) • Perform the actual inspection of the apparatus. – Investigation may take time depending on the size and complexity of apparatus and components. – Perform inspections systematically. – While conducting the inspection, the apparatus should be in a safe area. • Parked on a flat, level surface 6 Inspection Process (5 of 7) • During the inspection, thoroughly document findings on the inspection report. – Ensure the documentation is as accurate as possible and no items are overlooked. – Most items are inspected visually. • Look for signs of damage, excessive wear, or defects. – Some items must be operated during inspection to ensure proper functioning. 6 Inspection Process (6 of 7) • Driver/operator who visually inspects and operates the equipment during every shift will become familiar with the apparatus and its normal condition. – Driver/operator will recognize break downs or maintenance needs and can recommend repairs when necessary. – Use the department’s policies regarding apparatus inspections as a guide. 6 Inspection Process (7 of 7) • After completing the inspection, review the report and make sure nothing was missed. – Many departments require members to complete the inspection by a certain time each day. – Take the inspection seriously. – Failure to complete a thorough inspection may result in an unsafe apparatus on the road and at the emergency scene. 6 Fire Apparatus Sections (1 of 3) • The inspection is broken into sections. – Lets the driver/operator focus on a single aspect of the apparatus and discourages jumping around without a plan – Jumping around randomly leads to the possibility of missing critical elements. – Driver/operator should use a system or sequence recommended by the department. 6 Fire Apparatus Sections (2 of 3) • The Fire Department pumper is broken into six sections. • Sections are inspected in order unless otherwise stated by the department. – The most common method is starting at the drivers door and working in a counterclockwise direction. 6 Fire Apparatus Sections (3 of 3) • Order of inspection – Exterior inspection – Engine compartment – Cab interior – Brake inspection – General tools/equipment inspection – Pump inspection 6 Exterior Inspection (1 of 5) • Physically walk around and look at the general condition. – Is the apparatus clean and well maintained or worn and in need of repairs? – Inspect compartment doors, hinges, and latches for proper operation. • Tires are critical to proper stability, stopping capability, and ability to carry loads. – Look for cuts, cracks, and fabric showing through the tread or sidewall. 6 Exterior Inspection (2 of 5) • Valve stems on all tires should be accessible and devoid of cracks and cuts. – Valve caps should be securely fastened. – Size and make of tires should match the manufacturer’s recommendations. • Refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for appropriate tire pressures. – Use a pressure gauge to check the pressure. 6 Exterior Inspection (3 of 5) • A damaged wheel or rim can make the tire lose pressure or slip off. – Look for dents or large scratches. – Wheels should not be missing clamps, spacers, studs, lugs, or protective covers. • Power steering system reduces the effort required to steer the vehicle. – Look for bent, loose, or broken parts. – Inspect the amount of free play in the steering wheel. 6 Exterior Inspection (4 of 5) 6 Exterior Inspection (5 of 5) • Suspension system keeps the vehicle’s axles in place and holds up the apparatus and load. – Inspect the frame assembly to ensure that no parts are cracked, loose, broken, or missing. • Visually inspect the exhaust system for loose, broken, or missing mounting brackets or parts. • Fuel cap should be securely fastened to prevent spillage or fumes leaking from tank. 6 Engine Compartment (1 of 9) • On most apparatus, the driver/operator needs to raise the cab to inspect most portions of the engine, including belts, hoses, and fan blades. • Older apparatus may not have an access door through which to check fluids. • Always make sure loose items are secured prior to lifting the cab. 6 Engine Compartment (2 of 9) 6 Engine Compartment (3 of 9) • Inspect the engine compartment while the engine is off. – Examine for fluid leaks; broken, cracked, or damaged hoses; and electrical wiring showing signs of wear, chaffing, or damage from heat. • Driver/operator may be required to maintain appropriate fluid levels in the apparatus. – Do not rely solely on sensors to give an accurate reading of the fluid level. 6 Engine Compartment (4 of 9) • Check engine oil level with dip stick after the engine has been off for 15+ minutes. – Delay lets oil settle and gives an accurate reading • Coolant level should be checked as recommended by the manufacturer. • Most systems provide an exterior coolant reservoir marked with the appropriate level. 6 Engine Compartment (5 of 9) • Use caution when removing the radiator cap as coolant may be under pressure and hot. • Power steering system fluid is checked the same as engine oil. • Transmission fluid is inspected while the engine is running. – Park the vehicle in neutral. – Use a dip stick similar to when checking the oil. 6 Engine Compartment (6 of 9) • Other fluid levels are checked by the fire department mechanic periodically. Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations for correct fluid levels. – Rear differential fluid (axle) – Hydraulic oil – Pump gear box oil levels 6 Engine Compartment (7 of 9) • Belts that drive the engine components and other equipment may loosen due to wear. – Alternators, power steering pump, air compressor – Check the tension by pushing against the belt where there is no pulley. • Examine the apparatus’s batteries for corrosion on terminals where wires connect to battery post. – Remove corrosion by scraping with a wire brush. 6 Engine Compartment (8 of 9) • Physically removing an electrical wire connection from a terminal is normally done by a mechanic trained to perform the task. – Improperly removing battery cables could cause severe damage. • Driver/operator may check voltage levels by observing the voltage meter on the dashboard. 6 Engine Compartment (9 of 9) 6 Cab Interior (1 of 5) • Check that all cab-mounted equipment is present. – Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) – Maps – Traffic vests – Hearing protection – Medical gloves – Box lights 6 Cab Interior (2 of 5) • Check for worn or torn seats, cushions, dashboards, and headliners. – Ensure all seat belts function properly and are free of cuts and frays. • Apparatus controls in cab interior – Observe gauges measuring oil pressure, electrical system, engine temperature, and air pressure. – Adjust seats, mirrors, and get familiar with functional controls. 6 Cab Interior (3 of 5) 6 Cab Interior (4 of 5) • Make sure all gauges indicate a performance within normal operating ranges. • Interior functional control switches: heater, air conditioner, defroster, map lights, dash lights, radio, and other devices – All should be inspected to ensure correct operation. 6 Cab Interior (5 of 5) • Exterior functional control switches: items outside the cab but operated from the inside – Emergency lights, headlights, directional lights, brake lights, side marker lights, spotlights, and taillights – All lights should be clean and operate correctly. • Check mirrors, windows, and windshield – All windows should be clean and free of cracks. – Check windshield wipers and fluid level. 6 Brake Inspection (1 of 4) • Give brakes special attention when performing the inspection. • Inspect brakes for: – Cracked drums or rotors – Shoes or pads contaminated with oil, grease, or brake fluid – Shoes or pads worn dangerously thin, missing, or broken 6 Brake Inspection (2 of 4) • Parking brake test – Allow the running apparatus to move forward at less than 5 mi/h (8 km/h). – Apply the parking brake. – If apparatus does not stop, have it inspected. • Brake pedal test – Accelerate to 5 mi/h (8 km/h). – Push brake pedal firmly. – If there are problems, have it inspected. 6 Brake Inspection (3 of 4) • Dual air brake system warning light and buzzer test – Turn on the apparatus and allow time for the air compressor to build up to at least 100 psi (690 kPa). – Shut off the engine. – Leave the battery in the “on” position and step on and off the brake pedal. – An alarm should signal before the pressure drops below 60 psi (414 kPa) in the air tank. 6 Brake Inspection (4 of 4) • Spring brake test – Ensures the parking brake operates as designed – Release the parking brake by depressing the knob. – Step on and off the brake pedal. – The parking brake knob should activate when the pressure drops below 40 psi (258 kPa). – Spring brakes will activate and help prevent the vehicle from moving. 6 General Tools/Equipment Inspection (1 of 3) • Inspect all equipment on the apparatus to make sure it is operational. – Breathing apparatus, generators, fans, hydraulic rescue tools, hand tools, power tools, hose, nozzles, ground ladders • Power tools should be checked for oil level and fuel supply. 6 General Tools/Equipment Inspection (2 of 3) 6 General Tools/Equipment Inspection (3 of 3) • Many apparatus carry equipment that needs recharging. – An apparatus not operated for an extended duration may have batteries drained of power by the ongoing recharging of equipment stored on board. – Keep the vehicle’s batteries properly charged at all times. 6 Pump Inspection (1 of 6) • Pump inspection process includes: – Water supply tank – Foam supply tank – Intakes and discharges – Primer pump – Centrifugal fire pump • Visually inspect the water supply tank, even if it has a gauge. – Always visually confirm the water tank is full. 6 Pump Inspection (2 of 6) • Check the foam tank levels in an apparatus equipped with foam systems. • Check the floor under the apparatus for water before opening any valve and allow the water to drain. – A puddle or dripping may indicate a loose pump seal or other leak. 6 Pump Inspection (3 of 6) • Pumps may be kept dry during the winter months in cold-weather areas. • While the pump is not engaged, open and close each discharge valve several times to ensure proper operation. – Confirm all caps are easily operated and free of corrosion. • Inspect intakes by removing plugs, caps, or PIV and visually inspect piping. 6 Pump Inspection (4 of 6) • Intake strainers are located at the front of all intakes directly on the pump. – Small screens prevent damagecausing debris from entering. • Apparatus with a centrifugal pump will have a priming pump. – Oil reservoir of priming pump must be checked daily. 6 Pump Inspection (5 of 6) • If the priming pump is wet, a stream of water should be observed within seconds. – If pump is being carried dry, no water should be seen. • If the priming pump is being carried wet, after operating pump valves and components, start the apparatus engine and engage the pump in the appropriate gear. 6 Pump Inspection (6 of 6) • Do not operate the pump for more than a few minutes without circulating water back to the tank or other discharge line. 6 Safety (1 of 4) • It is critical to perform the apparatus inspection safely and to ensure the apparatus is prepared for a safe response. • The final part of the safety evaluation focuses on making sure the apparatus is safe to ride on and to operate. – Secure all tools and equipment, breathing apparatus, equipment on the compartment shelves, and equipment on the outside of the apparatus. 6 Safety (2 of 4) • Final part of the safety evaluation (continued) – Hose lines should be loaded and ready for deployment. – Securely nest ground ladders. – Secure all doors and lids. 6 Safety (3 of 4) 6 Safety (4 of 4) • Daily, weekly, or other periodic inspection items • Completing forms – Forms recording inspection and maintenance are filled out as the inspection process occurs. – At the end of the inspection, forms are completed and filed according to the department’s procedures. – Report abnormalities to the officer in charge. 6 Summary (1 of 2) • Apparatus inspection evaluates the apparatus and its equipment to ensure safe operation. • Inspection should be planned, methodical, and performed in an organized manner. • The inspection process should begin with a review of the inspection form completed after the previous inspection. • Ensure the apparatus is prepared for a safe response. 6 Summary (2 of 2) • Dividing the inspection into sections allows the fire fighter to focus on a single aspect of the apparatus. • Make sure the apparatus is in proper working condition, emergency warning equipment is operating, tools and equipment are functional, and the vehicle is ready for sustained operations. 6 6 6