68
INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER Reporting Worldwide to Municipal, Industrial and Fire Training Professionals An MDM PUBLICATION Issue 8 – November 2005 www.iffmag.com Official International Journal Cologne 29th March–2nd April Indianapolis 24th–29th April 6th–10th May

IFF Issue 08

Embed Size (px)

DESCRIPTION

Reporting Worldwide to Municipal, Industrial and Fire Training Professionals

Citation preview

Page 1: IFF Issue 08

I N T E R N A T I O N A L

FIRE FIGHTERI N T E R N A T I O N A L

FIRE FIGHTERReporting Worldwide to Municipal, Industrial and Fire Training Professionals

An MDM PUBLICATIONIssue 8 – November 2005

www.iffmag.com

Official International Journal

Cologne29th March–2nd April

Indianapolis24th–29th April 6th–10th May

IFF8 Front Cover 26/10/06 3:24 pm Page 1

Page 2: IFF Issue 08

AD No 2005-14-E.qxd 16/11/05 4:01 pm Page 1

Page 3: IFF Issue 08

1www.iffmag.comINTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

CONTENTS

Front cover picture: Courtesy of Angus Fire

PublishersDavid Staddon & Mark Seton

Sales and Editorial Manager: Mark Bathard

Contributing EditorsDr Clifford Jones, Andrew Shiner, JeffAiken, Dave Cochran, Jeffrey O. Stull,Steven Pike

IFF is published quarterly by:MDM Publishing Ltd 18a, St James Street, South Petherton, Somerset TA13 5BWUnited KingdomTel: +44 (0) 1460 249199Fax: +44 (0) 1460 249292 e-mail: [email protected]: www.iffmag.com

©All rights reserved

Periodical Postage paid at Charnplain NewYork and additional officesPOSTMASTER: Send address changes toIMS of New York, P 0 Box 1518 Champlain NY 12919-1518USAUSPS No. (To be confirmed)

Annual SubscriptionUK - £35.00 Europe - �60Overseas - US$70.00lSSN - 1744-5841

DISCLAIMER:The views and opinions expressed in INTERNATIONALFIRE FIGHTER are not necessarily those of MDMPublishing Ltd. The magazine and publishers are in no wayresponsible or legally liable for any errors or anomaliesmade within the editorial by our authors. All articles areprotected by copyright and written permission must besought from the publishers for reprinting or any form ofduplication of any of the magazines content. Any queriesshould be addressed in writing to the publishers.

Reprints of articles are available on request. Prices onapplication to the Publishers.

Page design by Dorchester Typesetting Group LtdPrinted by The Friary Press Ltd

I N T E R N A T I O N A L

FIRE FIGHTERI N T E R N A T I O N A L

FIRE FIGHTERReporting Worldwide to Municipal, Industrial and Fire Training Professionals

An MDM PUBLICATIONIssue 8 – November 2005

www.iffmag.com

Official International Journal

Cologne29th March–2nd April

Indianapolis24th–29th April 6th–10th May

November 2005 Issue 8 MUNICIPAL SECTION

5-10 A Guide to Selecting a FireApparatus Manufacturer

12 Viewpoint: Commentary onthe M25 lorry explosion

15-18 Airing the case for PPV

20 Viewpoint: Commentary onthe French road tunnel fire inJune 2005

INDUSTRIAL SECTION

23-26 Understanding NFPA 1991 and Why it is important to theFire Service and Industry

28 Angus Fire Product Profile

30 Viewpoint: China coal minefires

33-35 Industrial Vehicles

36 Helmet Integrated SystemsLtd. Product Profile

39-41 Seal Fires

42 Lenzing FR® Product Profile

FIRE AND RESCUE TRAINING SECTION

44-47 Civil Defence Academy,Singapore Civil DefenceForce

48 Show Update: FireDepartment Instructors’Conference

50 Show Update: Fire Asia 2006Exhibition and Conference

51-54 CBRN training – A PracticalApproach

55 Rosenbauer InternationalAktiengesellschaft ProductProfile

57-63 Procurement Guide

64 Advertisers’ Index

INTERNATIONALFIRE FIGHTER

COMMENTWelcome to issue 8 of International Fire Fighter magazine. As I write this I look back andwonder at just how quickly 2005 has passed and what we have achieved and what planswe have for 2006. Next year will be a very exciting year for us. We have been in discus-sions with Pennwell who organise the USA’s largest fire exhibition in Indianapolis, theFDIC. As you will see from the logos on this issue’s front cover, International Fire Fighterhas been given the prestigious award of being the official international magazine forFDIC Indianapolis which takes place next year from April 24th-29th. International FireFighter is also the official international title for two other FDIC events which take placein Cologne from the 30th March to April 2nd and in Bahrain from the 6th to 10th May.

I would like to use this issue’s comment to thank Pennwell for bestowing upon us theofficial international magazine status for FDIC Indianapolis, Cologne and Bahrain. Overthe next two issues, International Fire Fighter will publish news about these events and Ido hope that I get to see customers old and new attending these very important shows.

Mark BathardSales and Editorial Manager

P. 1 Contents 11/17/06 4:25 PM Page 1

Page 4: IFF Issue 08

WHERE LEADERS COME TO TRAIN

April 24-29, 2006 / www.FDIC.comIndiana Convention Center / Indianapolis, IN

Flagship Media Sponsors: Owned & Produced by:

Page 5: IFF Issue 08

Municipal

P. 3-20 26/10/06 3:47 pm Page 3

Page 6: IFF Issue 08

Bronto w/p 16/11/05 4:07 pm Page 1

Page 7: IFF Issue 08

The easiest way to gather this infor-mation is to submit a questionnaireto bidders to complete as part of

their bid packages. That way, you’ll besure to ask each bidder the same questionsin order to make an impartial evaluation.A sample questionnaire is included at theend of this guide. You may photocopy it,or you may use it as a basis for developingyour own questionnaire.

MANUFACTURER INFORMATIONThe first step in the information gatheringprocess is to learn more about each manu-facturer. This will help you determine theirexperience, financial stability, qualityrecord, and other valuable information.

Experience. Fire apparatus manufacturerswith a lot of experience know what worksand what doesn’t. They know the applica-ble vehicle standards and have kept upwith the changes over the years. They havehelped develop new fire apparatus tech-nology and have incorporated it into theirvehicles. This experience can be measuredin terms of the years of operation and thenumber of apparatus built. It can also bemeasured in terms of satisfied customers.Here are some questions you may want toask prospective bidders:

● How long has the manufacturer beenbuilding fire apparatus?

● How many fire apparatus has themanufacturer built?

● How many fire apparatus has themanufacturer built of the specific typeyou want to purchase (pumper, aerialladder, rescue, etc.)?

● Can the manufacturer provide thenames of at least ten customers whoare operating fire apparatus of thespecific type you want to purchase?

Ownership. In today’s complicatedbusiness world, it is not uncommon todiscover that some well-known fire appar-atus manufacturers are actually owned bylarger corporations. Make certain youinvestigate or research the parent corpora-tions to thoroughly understand theirbackground and relationship with theapparatus manufacturer. To find outabout ownership, ask prospective bidders:● Is the manufacturer owned or con-

trolled by another corporation? If so,what is the name of the parent corpor-ation and what is their primary business?

● How long has the manufacturer beenowned by the parent corporation?

● Does the parent corporation own anyother fire apparatus manufacturers? Ifso, what are their names?

Financial Stability. There are more thanone hundred fire apparatus manufacturersin the United States today. It is an extremelycompetitive market, and only the mostfinancially stable companies can survive.Over the past twenty years, dozens of man-ufacturers — both large and small — havegone out of business and left their cus-tomers without a source of parts, service,and warranty support. To determine amanufacturer’s financial stability, ask them:● Will the manufacturer provide a copy of

their most recent annual report withtheir bid for review by the city ordepartment finance officer, risk manager,or other designated person?

● Will the manufacturer provide a copy oftheir most recent financial statementwith their bid for review by the city ordepartment finance officer, risk manager,or other designated person?

Product Line. When you purchase a fireapparatus, you are establishing a long-term relationship with the manufacturerand dealer for parts, service, and warrantysupport over the life of the vehicle. Deal-ing with a manufacturer and dealer whocan offer a broad product line is oftenmore efficient and cost-effective thanhaving to go one place for a pumper,another for an aerial, and somewhere elsefor a brush truck. To learn more, ask:● What kinds of apparatus does the man-

ufacturer build? (Alternatively, inquireif the manufacturer builds specifictypes of apparatus you may need in thefuture — aerials, tankers, wildlandpumpers, etc.)

● Does the manufacturer offer theirapparatus on both custom chassis andcommercial chassis to allow flexibilityin design and cost?

5www.iffmag.comINTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Municipal

Pic courtesy of E-One

A Guide toSelecting aFire ApparatusManufacturer SELECTING A FIRE APPARATUS MANUFACTURER is an important decision. Itis a decision that should involve more than just choosing a company thatmeets your specs or is the lowest bidder. Specifically, it should involvegathering and evaluating information about the manufacturer, the dealer, andthe product itself to ensure you are getting the best overall value for yourmoney. This information will allow you make an informed selection that youcan confidently present to your town council, city manager, or board of firecommissioners to justify your choice.

By Jeff Aiken

A Guide toSelecting aFire ApparatusManufacturer

P. 3-20 26/10/06 3:53 pm Page 5

Page 8: IFF Issue 08

● Does the manufacturer offer theirapparatus on light-duty, medium-duty,and heavyduty trucks to allow flexibilityfor specific applications?

ISO (International Standards Organiza-tion) Certification. The InternationalStandards Organization sets qualitystandards for business operations world-wide. ISO certification is more than just abuzzword. A manufacturer must allow anindependent, third-party agency to inspectall aspects of their quality systems andthen must allow that same agency toconduct audits every six months. ISO 9001is the most comprehensive certification. It measures quality in the areas of design, manufacturing, and service —everything from taking the initial order toproviding service in the field. Other ISOcertifications are less comprehensive. Askbidders:● Is the manufacturer ISO 9001 certified?● If the manufacturer is not ISO 9001

certified, state the ISO certificationlevel and the areas covered in the scopeof certification.

Bonds and Insurance. What happenswhen a manufacturer is awarded a con-tract and then decides not to build theapparatus or is unable to meet the specs?And what happens if they build it, and itfails? A bid bond compensates the cus-tomer if a manufacturer is awarded thecontract, but then backs out of the deal. Aperformance bond compensates thecustomer if an apparatus is built, but doesnot meet the specifications. Liabilityinsurance covers damage, injury, or deathresulting from a failure of the apparatus.Bonds and insurance are part of the costof the apparatus, but larger companieswith good records can obtain them atlower rates. Ask bidders:● Will the manufacturer provide a bid

bond for 10% of the total bid? (Bidbonds must be from the apparatusmanufacturer — bonds from sub-contractors are not acceptable.)

● Will the manufacturer provide a perfor-mance bond for 100% or more of thetotal bid?

If so, how much will it cost (cost per$1,000)? (Performance bonds must befrom the apparatus manufacturer —bonds from the salesperson or fromsub-contractors are not acceptable.)

● Will the manufacturer provide a$25,000,000 product liability insurancepolicy?

Lease/Purchase Options. Writing anapparatus spec that meets your needs cantake a lot of effort. You shouldn’t have togo through the same amount of effort tofind a finance plan that also meets yourneeds. Some manufacturers can’t offeryou any finance help — they just want tosell you the apparatus. Larger manufactur-ers can offer you a wide variety of leaseand purchase plans. To determine youroptions, ask:● Does the manufacturer offer finance

options? If so, describe them.● Does the manufacturer offer leasing

options? If so, describe them.

Customer Support. Most customer sup-port is provided by the local apparatusdealer.

However, some manufacturers offeradditional support directly to theircustomers.

Training programs and refurbishmentcenters are among the most valuable kindsof factory-sponsored customer support.Inquire about these programs by asking:● Does the manufacturer have a training

program for vehicle operators? Doesthe training take place at the firedepartment site and does it last formore than one day to ensure theoperators are familiar with all modes of operation and with the properpreventive maintenance procedures?

● Does the manufacturer have a trainingprogram for fire mechanics andemergency vehicle technicians? Doesthe program cover all models in themanufacturer’s product line? Does theprogram also include review courses toprepare students for EVT CertificationCommission exams?

● Does the manufacturer have a factory-operated facility to perform majorrepair, refurbishment, and rehabilitationof fire apparatus? Does the refur-bishment work comply with therequirements of NFPA 1912?

● List any other customer supportservices offered by the manufacturer.

DEALER INFORMATIONThe dealer is an equally important factorin selecting an apparatus manufacturer.For many departments, the dealer will bethe main source of parts, service, andwarranty support. The dealer salespersonnel can also provide informationabout the latest changes in technologyand applicable standards.

Experience. Experienced dealers withexperienced personnel can often give youthe best support. This can be measured bythe number of years they have been inbusiness and the number of apparatusthey have sold. Their experience and levelof support can also be measured by theirsatisfied customers — other departments inyour area. Ask bidders:● How long has the dealer been selling

fire apparatus? How long has the dealerbeen selling this brand of apparatus? Isthe dealer strictly dedicated to sellingfire apparatus or do they sell andservice other products?

● What is the average number of years of experience of the dealer’s salespersonnel?

● How many fire apparatus has the dealersold?

● Can the dealer provide the names of atleast ten customers who are operatingfire apparatus of the specific type youwant to purchase?

Parts and Service. When fire apparatushave problems, they need to be resolvedquickly. That’s why it is important toselect dealers who offer parts and servicesupport from qualified personnel whenand where you need it. Inquire by asking:

● Does the dealer have one or more partsand service facilities? If so, list thelocations.

● What services are available and whatare the service department hours ofoperation at each location?

● Does the dealer have one or moremobile service units to provide servicein the field? If so, state the servicesprovided, areas covered, and the hoursof operation.

● Are all the service technicians factorytrained? Are they EVTCC certified? Canyou provide a list of certified servicepersonnel and their certifications foreach location?

● What parts are available and what arethe parts department hours of opera-tion at each location?

● What is the average delivery time forparts not in stock?

Insurance. If the dealer is going to be pro-viding parts and service for your apparatus,it is important for them to have liabilitycoverage for the work they do. It is alsoimportant to make sure they have damagecoverage for the time your apparatus is intheir possession. To protect yourself, ask:● Does the dealer have liability insur-

ance? If so, how much?● Does the dealer have damage coverage

for the time the apparatus is in theirpossession? If so, how much and whatdamage is covered?

PRODUCT INFORMATIONIn addition to being concerned with thedetails of the particular apparatus you arespecifying, you should also ask biddersabout their products in general. This willhelp you understand their engineering,testing, and manufacturing capabilities, aswell as the types of warranties they offer.

Engineering. A fire apparatus is a complexvehicle with many unique components andsystems. To ensure the apparatus performsproperly, it needs to be designed by quali-fied and experienced engineers. The engi-neers must consider weight distribution,structural stresses, electrical loads, safety,performance, and ease of maintenance forthe life of the apparatus. The best way todo this is to have the same team of engi-neers design all the major portions of thevehicle — the cab, chassis, body, electricalsystem, and aerial devices. That way, theycan make sure everything fits together andworks together. Ask bidders:● Does the manufacturer have an

engineering staff? If so, how many full-time degreed engineers are employed?What is the average number of years ofexperience of these engineers?

● Does the engineering staff design thecab, chassis, body, electrical system, andaerial devices on their fire apparatus?(Only the body, electrical system, andaerial devices portions apply for vehiclesbuilt on commercial truck chassis.)

● Can the engineering staff provide anaccurate weight distribution analysis,electrical load analysis, and engine/transmission performance analysis beforethe apparatus is built?

66 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Mun

icip

al

P. 3-20 26/10/06 3:54 pm Page 6

Page 9: IFF Issue 08

Tel: +44 (0)1695 711711Email: [email protected]

NEVER LEAVE ANYONE BEHIND

INTEGRATED RADIOINFORMATION SYSTEMElectronics &Telemetry

SELF CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUSprEN137 : 2002 Class II

NEW!

PROPAK_IRIS_AD 8/7/05 14:08 Page 1

Page 10: IFF Issue 08

● Does the engineering staff use thelatest versions of computer-aideddesign (CAD) and analysis tools?

Manufacturing. Building a fire apparatusrequires as much skill as designing it. Justas with engineering, the best way to dothis is to have an experienced team ofworkers build all the major components. Italso helps to integrate the engineeringand manufacturing functions so that theoutput of the engineering computer-aideddesign tools becomes the input for themanufacturing computer-aided manu-facturing tools. To determine a bidder’smanufacturing capabilities, ask them:● How many full-time manufacturing

workers are employed? What is theaverage number of years of experienceof these workers?

● Does the manufacturing staff build thecab, chassis, body, electrical system,and aerial devices on their fire appar-atus? (Only the body, electrical system,and aerial devices portions apply forvehicles built on commercial truckchassis.)

● Are all welders certified? State thecertification required for each weldedcomponent on the apparatus.

● Does the manufacturing staff use thelatest versions of computer-aidedmanufacturing (CAM) tools?

Standards Compliance. Building a fireapparatus that does not fully comply withapplicable vehicle standards can put themanufacturer and the customer in aposition of serious liability if an accidentoccurs. This is true for mandated stan-dards, such as the Federal Motor VehicleSafety Standards (FMVSS), as well as forthose standards that are widely acceptedby other manufacturers in the industry,such as NFPA and KKK.

Some manufacturers will try to cutcosts by complying with only certain partsof these standards. Don’t accept suchapparatus. Ask each bidder:● Does the apparatus you are bidding

comply with all portions of the appli-cable vehicle standards? (NFPA 1901 orNFPA 1906 for fire apparatus; KKK-A-1822E and/or state standards forambulances; FMVSS for all vehicles.)

Testing. Some manufacturers perform littleor no testing when they introduce newapparatus or components. Others performonly the minimum tests required by theFMVSS and NFPA or KKK standards, butnothing else. To ensure that new appar-atus designs will function properly — bothnow and in the future — a manufacturerneeds to perform a series of computeranalyses and prototype tests of all criticalcomponents and systems. To determinehow much testing has been done on aparticular apparatus design, ask:● Has the manufacturer performed a

fatigue life analysis and testing of allstructural components on the appar-atus model being bid? State whichtests and the results.

● Has the manufacturer conducted ridequality testing on the apparatus model

being bid? State which tests and theresults.

● Has the manufacturer conducted cabcrashworthiness testing on the appar-atus model being bid? State whichtests and the results.

● Has the manufacturer conducted loadtesting of the aerial device on theapparatus model being bid (if appli-cable)? Does this testing includepersonnel load, equipment load, staticwaterway load, and elevated monitornozzle reaction loads both verticallyand horizontally? State which tests andthe results.

● Has the manufacturer conducted anyother analyses or tests as part of thedevelopment of the apparatus modelbeing bid? State which tests and theresults.

Third-Party Verification. Having a manu-facturer test apparatus is good, but havingan independent, third-party organizationconduct their own tests is even better. Andbest of all is to have an independent,third-party organization not only conductthe tests, but also verify the overall design.To determine whether a manufacturer hasused third-party testing and verification,ask bidders:

● Has the manufacturer submitted theirproducts to an independent, third-party company for testing? If so, statewhich components or systems and theresults.

● Has the manufacturer submitted theirproducts to an independent, third-party company for verification of thedesign? If so, state which componentsor systems and the results.

● Will the independent, third-party com-pany provide written certification ofthe test results and verifications?

Warranty. Some fire apparatus manufac-turers offer only limited warranty coveragefor their products. After a year or two,their customers are responsible for allproblems — even if it was the manufac-turer’s fault. Other manufacturers offerlonger warranties on certain components,but put hidden restrictions on the cover-age. For example, they might give a life-time warranty on the frame rails, but giveno warranty on the frame crossmembers.To determine the warranties offered bymanufacturers, ask them:

● What is the vehicle frame and framecrossmembers warranty?

● What is the cab structural warranty?● What is the body structural warranty?● What is the paint warranty?● What is the pump warranty (if

applicable)?● What is the pump plumbing warranty

(if applicable)?● What is the water tank warranty (if

applicable)?● What is the aerial device warranty (if

applicable)?● What is the standard warranty for all

components manufactured by theapparatus manufacturer and notcovered above?

● Are there any other specific warranties— either from the manufacturer or froma component supplier? If so, state whatand how long.

Manufacturer, Dealer, and ProductQuestionnaireEach bidder is to complete all portions ofthis questionnaire and submit it with theirbid.

Failure to do so will render their bidnon-responsive.

MANUFACTURER INFORMATION

Experience● How long has the manufacturer been

building fire apparatus?● How many fire apparatus has the

manufacturer built?● How many fire apparatus has the

manufacturer built of the specific typeyou want to purchase (pumper, aerialladder, rescue, etc.)?

● Can the manufacturer provide thenames of at least ten customers whoare operating fire apparatus of thespecific type you want to purchase?

Ownership● Is the manufacturer owned or

controlled by another corporation? Ifso, what is the name of the parentcorporation and what is their primarybusiness?

● How long has the manufacturer beenowned by the parent corporation?

● Does the parent corporation own anyother fire apparatus manufacturers? Ifso, what are their names?

Financial Stability● Will the manufacturer provide a copy of

their most recent annual report withtheir bid for review by the city ordepartment finance officer, risk manager,or other designated person?

● Will the manufacturer provide a copy oftheir most recent financial statementwith their bid for review by the city ordepartment finance officer, risk manager,or other designated person?

Product Line● What kinds of apparatus does the man-

ufacturer build? (Alternatively, inquire ifthe manufacturer builds specific typesof apparatus you may need in thefuture — aerials, tankers, wildlandpumpers, patient transport vehicles, etc.)

● Does the manufacturer offer theirapparatus on both custom chassis andcommercial chassis to allow flexibilityin design and cost?

● Does the manufacturer offer theirapparatus on light-duty, medium-duty,and heavyduty trucks to allow flexibilityfor specific applications?

ISO (International StandardsOrganization) Certification● Is the manufacturer ISO 9001 certified?● If the manufacturer is not ISO 9001

88 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Mun

icip

al

P. 3-20 26/10/06 3:56 pm Page 8

Page 11: IFF Issue 08

Vema w/p 26/10/06 3:59 pm Page 1

Page 12: IFF Issue 08

certified, state the ISO certificationlevel and the areas covered in the scopeof certification.

Bonds and Insurance● Will the manufacturer provide a bid

bond for 10% of the total bid? (Bidbonds must be from the apparatusmanufacturer — bonds from sub-contractors are not acceptable.)

● Will the manufacturer provide a perfor-mance bond for 100% or more of thetotal bid?

If so, how much will it cost? (Per-formance bonds must be from theapparatus manufacturer — bonds fromthe salesperson or from sub-contractorsare not acceptable.)

● Will the manufacturer provide a$25,000,000 product liability insurancepolicy? If so, how much will it cost?

Lease/Purchase Options● Does the manufacturer offer finance

options? If so, describe them.● Does the manufacturer offer leasing

options? If so, describe them.

Customer Support● Does the manufacturer have a training

program for vehicle operators? Doesthe training take place at the firedepartment site and does it last formore than one day to ensure theoperators are familiar with all modes of operation and with the properpreventive maintenance procedures?

● Does the manufacturer have a trainingprogram for fire mechanics and emer-gency vehicle technicians? Does theprogram cover all models in themanufacturer’s product line? Does theprogram also include review courses toprepare students for EVT CertificationCommission exams?

● Does the manufacturer have a factory-operated facility to perform majorrepair, refurbishment, and rehabilitationof fire apparatus? Does the refur-bishment work comply with therequirements of NFPA 1912?

● List any other customer supportservices offered by the manufacturer.

DEALER INFORMATION

Experience● How long has the dealer been selling

fire apparatus? How long has the dealerbeen selling this brand of apparatus? Isthe dealer strictly dedicated to sellingfire apparatus or do they sell andservice other products?

● What is the average number of years of experience of the dealer’s salespersonnel?

● How many fire apparatus has the dealersold?

● Can the dealer provide the names of atleast ten customers who are operatingfire apparatus of the specific type youwant to purchase?

Parts and Service● Does the dealer have one or more parts

and service facilities? If so, list thelocations.

● What services are available and whatare the service department hours ofoperation at each location?

● Does the dealer have one or moremobile service units to provide servicein the field? If so, state the servicesprovided, areas covered, and the hoursof operation.

● Are all the service technicians factorytrained? Are they EVTCC certified? Canyou provide a list of certified servicepersonnel and their certifications foreach location?

● What parts are available and what arethe parts department hours of opera-tion at each location?

● What is the average delivery time forparts not in stock?

Insurance● Does thse dealer have liability insur-

ance? If so, how much?● Does the dealer have damage coverage

for the time the apparatus is in theirpossession? If so, how much and whatdamage is covered?

PRODUCT INFORMATION

Engineering● Does the manufacturer have an

engineering staff? If so, how many full-time degreed engineers are employed?What is the average number of years ofexperience of these engineers?

● Does the engineering staff design thecab, chassis, body, electrical system,and aerial devices on their fire appar-atus? (Only the body, electrical system,and aerial devices portions apply forvehicles built on commercial truckchassis.)

● Can the engineering staff provide anaccurate weight distribution analysis,electrical load analysis, and engine/transmission performance analysis beforethe apparatus is built?

● Does the engineering staff use thelatest versions of computer-aideddesign (CAD) and analysis tools?

Manufacturing● How many full-time manufacturing

workers are employed? What is theaverage number of years of experienceof these workers?

● Does the manufacturing staff build thecab, chassis, body, electrical system,and aerial devices on their fire appar-atus? (Only the body, electrical system,and aerial devices portions apply forvehicles built on commercial truckchassis.)

● Are all welders certified? State thecertification required for each weldedcomponent on the apparatus.

● Does the manufacturing staff use thelatest versions of computer-aidedmanufacturing (CAM) tools?

Standards Compliance● Does the apparatus you are bidding

comply with all portions of the applic-able vehicle standards? (NFPA 1901 orNFPA 1906 for fire apparatus; KKK-A-1822E and/or state standards forambulances; FMVSS for all vehicles.)

Testing● Has the manufacturer performed a

fatigue life analysis and testing of allstructural components on the appar-atus model being bid? State whichtests and the results.

● Has the manufacturer conducted ridequality testing on the apparatus modelbeing bid? State which tests and theresults.

● Has the manufacturer conducted cabcrashworthiness testing on the appar-atus model being bid? State whichtests and the results.

● Has the manufacturer conducted loadtesting of the aerial device on theapparatus model being bid (if applic-able)? Does this testing includepersonnel load, equipment load, staticwaterway load, and elevated monitornozzle reaction loads both verticallyand horizontally? State which tests andthe results.

● Has the manufacturer conducted anyother analyses or tests as part of thedevelopment of the apparatus modelbeing bid? State which tests and theresults.

Third-Party Verification● Has the manufacturer submitted their

products to an independent, third-party company for testing? If so, statewhich components or systems and theresults.

● Has the manufacturer submitted theirproducts to an independent, third-party company for verification of thedesign? If so, state which componentsor systems and the results.

● Will the independent, third-party com-pany provide written certification ofthe test results and verifications?

Warranty● What is the vehicle frame and frame

crossmembers warranty?● What is the cab structural warranty?● What is the body structural warranty?● What is the paint warranty?● What is the pump warranty (if

applicable)?● What is the pump plumbing warranty

(if applicable)?● What is the water tank warranty (if

applicable)?● What is the aerial device warranty (if

applicable)?● What is the standard warranty for all

components manufactured by theapparatus manufacturer and notcovered above?

● Are there any other specific warranties— either from the manufacturer or froma component supplier? If so, state whatand how long.

1010 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Mun

icip

al

P. 3-20 26/10/06 3:59 pm Page 10

Page 13: IFF Issue 08

www.iveco-magirus.de

Fire fighting is a red-hot Job –only the best will do for you.

The name IVECO MAGIRUS represents excellence in fire fighting competence since decades.Based on MAGIRUS' over 140 years of tradition, today we are able to offer you the concen-trated know how of three brands: MAGIRUS as full liner and world market leader for turn-table ladders up to 53 m, LOHR MAGIRUS as tailor-made-vehicle specialist and CAMIVA asspecialist for fire fighting and special vehicles. In continuous dialogue with fire brigades, worldwide, we develop solutions which again and again set standards. Cutting edge productionmethods, innovative engineering designs and the best materials guarantee products to thehighest quality levels and with the maximum operation-tactical benefit.So the name IVECO MAGIRUS will also in the future continue to be the world-wide guaran-tee for the best fire fighting vehicles.

Iveco_Fire_Rescue 10.11.2005 13:27 Uhr Seite 1

Page 14: IFF Issue 08

Hydrogen peroxide, chemical for-mula H2O2, is perhaps one ofthe oldest ‘industrial chemicals’.

Almost two thirds of that produced inthe UK is used to bleach wood pulp inthe manufacture of paper. Some is usedin textiles bleaching, and the substancefinds significant application as areagent in the chemicals industry. It hasalso found use as a propellant, on itsown as a monopropellant or as theoxidising component of a bipropellant.

Hydrogen peroxide decomposesaccording to:

H2O2 → H2O + 1/2O2

this reaction being accompanied by the release of 2.5 MJ per kg of theperoxide so reacted.

The hydrogen peroxide explosion onthe M25 scattered debris across a widearea and wrecked the vehicle carrying ittherefore there must have been a majorover pressure. Yet 2.5 MJ kg-1, thoughcertainly sufficient to sustain a flame,is a low exothermicity in comparison

with, for example, that of natural gas,which releases about 55 MJ per kg ofnatural gas reacted. The comparison isimperfect in that natural gas needsoxygen, present in air, to burn, whereaswhat is being considered in the case ofhydrogen peroxide is a decompositionflame.

It is widely known that overpressuresare related not to the heat of reactionbut to the speed of propagation ofreaction products. In an oxidation reac-tion the propagation can be acceleratedby thorough pre-mixing of fuel andoxidant, and the highest possibledegree of pre-mixing is existence of thefuel and oxidant in the same molecule,that is, oxygen for burning is notatmospheric but intra-molecular. This isthe basis of high explosives such asTNT, where the oxygen in the nitrogroups reappears in oxides of carbon inthe products and there is an exceedinglyhigh overpressure because of theclosest possible proximity of fuel andoxidant which are actually different

parts of the same molecule. The situation with hydrogen peroxide

is similar. It is difficult to divide con-ceptually this very simple, symmetricalmolecule into ‘fuel’ and ‘oxidant’ ascan be done for TNT, but the fact thatthe exothermicity arises entirely fromreaction of a single molecule meansthat the product gases have highvelocity which results in an overpres-sure. That is the reason for the havocon the M25 on that ill-fated day.

There are other substances whichdecompose exothermically with asignificant overpressure includinghydrazine, N2H4. This, like hydrogenperoxide, has been used as a propellant.Also of course there are organic perox-ides of generalised formula:

R O O R’

where R, R’ represent alkyl groups,which can explode by a decompositionreaction quite analogous to that ofhydrogen peroxide. That is why build-upof such peroxides in chemical plant, forexample in a partial oxidation process, isdangerous and needs to be avoided. Thereactions discussed in this paragraphhave heats of reaction of the order ofMJ, not tens of MJ as with hydro-carbon-oxygen reactions, and owe theirblast potential to the fact that heatrelease arises from reaction of a singlemolecule therefore fuel and oxygen donot have to be brought together.

There have not been many majorexplosions in the handling and storageof hydrogen peroxide and the author isconfident that the recent M25 mishapwill establish itself as a ‘case study’.

1212 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Mun

icip

al

COMMENTARY ON THE M25LORRY EXPLOSION

ON 30TH AUGUST 2005, a lorry carrying hydrogen peroxide explodedwhilst travelling along the M25 motorway near London. The only personinjured was the lorry driver. However, debris from the explosion necessitatedclosure of all lanes of the motorway in both directions and the truck itself wastotally destroyed. Some background on the nature of hydrogen peroxide willtake our discussion further.

V I E W P O I N T

By J.C. Jones DScDepartment of Engineering

University of [email protected]

The hydrogen peroxide explosionon the M25 scattered debris acrossa wide area and wrecked thevehicle carrying it therefore theremust have been a major overpressure.

P. 3-20 26/10/06 4:02 pm Page 12

Page 15: IFF Issue 08

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre

INTERNATIONAL

Official publication: In association with: Organised by:

15th - 17th February 2006

Book your exhibition space at Fire Asia 2006 now

For more reasons to visit, register free atw w w . f i r e - a s i a . c o m

Europe & North America

Ron Dullage, Group Sales ManagerTel: +44 (0)1737 855451 / 435

[email protected]

Asia

Christine Guan, dmg Beijing OfficeTel: +86 10 6505 6245 / 44 / 45

[email protected]

In associtaion with:

Fire Asia 2006 fp ad NEW 11/15/05 9:41 AM Page 1

Page 16: IFF Issue 08

14141414 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

TM

P. 3-20 26/10/06 4:12 pm Page 14

Page 17: IFF Issue 08

The general consensus among pro-fessional firefighters around theworld is that positive pressure

ventilation, when properly used, offerstwo major benefits; the effective use ofPPV increases visibility and significantlyreduces air temperature. However, theyare equally quick to agree with theimportance of the need for trainingand assessing suitable applications forits deployment.

In reality, ventilation techniques ofone sort or another were in widespreaduse before the introduction of PPV.Along with vertical ventilation andelectric smoke ejectors, negative pres-sure ventilation was used when smokeand fire gases were on the negativeside of the fan. These techniques dif-fers from positive pressure ventilation –where the smoke and fire gases are onthe side of the fan where the pressureis positive – as they were most oftenused after the fire was extinguished.The air flow was relatively ineffectiveand it often took considerable periodsof time to ventilate the building.

WHAT IS POSITIVE PRESSUREVENTILATION, AND HOW DOES ITWORK?

The principle is that positive pressure isachieved when air is forced into abuilding using one or more fans. Thesefans force air into the building orenclosure to create a higher pressureinside the structure in relation to theexternal atmospheric pressure. Thispressure differential drives heat, gasesand other products of combustionthrough a suitable outlet vent to theopen air. This also has the benefit ofreplacing the heat, smoke and gasses inthe building with cool fresh air.

In the process, the large quantities ofcarbon monoxide and the other toxicand carcinogenic products that are pre-sent both during and after a fire areremoved. This has a welcome impact onthe health and safety of the building’soccupants and those entering thebuilding to fight the fire. Additionally,PPV can help to maintain primary andsecondary exit routes, and assist fire-fighters to pinpoint the source of the

fire. PPV can also help to reduce thespread of flame and significantlyreduce the time-sensitive search andrescue times that can be achieved.

ANSWERING THE CRITICS’OBJECTIONSNot everyone accepts the arguments infavour of using PPV. Critics cite theobjection that the fan may pick updebris while in operation; that the airstream may pull loose objects into theblade; that petrol-engined PPVs pro-duce carbon monoxide; and thatengine vibration may cause the fan to“wander” and so lose its effectiveness.They also express concerns over the sizeand weight of the equipment.

In practice, these concerns haveproven to be unfounded. This is partic-ularly so with the introduction of thelatest PPV fans, which overcome thestability, size and weight issues. No onedisputes though that proper training isabsolutely essential and that the use ofPPV needs to be considered as part ofthe overall firefighting tactical plan.

Tests have shown that the risk of

15www.iffmag.comINTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Municipal

Picture courtesy of Tyco Fire & Security

POSITIVE PRESSURE VENTILATION,often more commonly referred to asPPV, has been in use since the1980s, although it had its originsas far back as the 1950s. Here,Andrew Shiner, Director of Market-ing, Europe, Middle East andAfrica for Tyco Fire & Security’s FireSuppression Group takes a closelook at where PPV stands todayand assesses the latest equipmentto come onto the market.

By Andrew Shiner

Airing thecase forPPV

Airing thecase forPPV

P. 3-20 26/10/06 4:12 pm Page 15

Page 18: IFF Issue 08

trapping occupants or firefightersbetween the fire and the outlet vent ismuch less than was originally believedand that the benefits far outweigh anypotential disadvantages. Concerns thatthere is a risk of igniting the hot smokeas it mixes with oxygen at the outletvent have also proved to be unfounded.This is easily controlled by proper train-ing, and by positioning a covering jetat the outlet vent. In fact, all of therecent studies have shown that thelikelihood of PPV increasing the risk tooccupants of the building are far out-weighed by the rapid improvement ofthe conditions inside the building andthe more effective fighting of the fire.

THE IMPORTANCE OF PROPERCONTROLSThere are though six steps that need tobe taken to ensure that PPV techniquesare effectively and safely implemented.These can be summarised as the needto:

● Ensure proper training of thefirefighting crews.

● Establish effective command andcontrol procedures.

● Establish essential fire groundcommunications.

● Use the most suitable equipment forthe job.

● Adopt the most appropriate applica-tion techniques.

● Implement a phased approach to theintroduction of PPV.

Brigades need to ensure that themost suitable fan or fans are selected,taking account of fan performance;stowage; maintenance; manual handlingand noise levels. Also, PPV should notbe adopted as part of the fire groundoperations until every member of thefire crew has a thorough appreciationof the use of ventilation, and how thisaffects the behaviour of fire. It isimperative that PPV needs to becoordinated with other firefightingactivities.

So, carrying out a dynamic riskassessment at the site of the fire isessential and there are several questionsthat need to be answered. Theseinclude the size of the compartment tobe ventilated; the location of the fire;

the likely location of any casualties andan assessment of backdraught orflashover potential. Wind direction,determining the location of the essen-tial outlet vent and the provision of jetsto cover the outlet and possibly nearbystructures also need to be taken fullyinto account.

Where there is a risk of either back-draft or flashover, PPV is clearly notappropriate until proper communi-cations have been established betweenthe fire crew inside the building andthe incident commander. It is also notadvisable to use PPV in conditionswhere the wind strength or its directionwill thwart the effects of the fan orfans.

SUCCESSFUL APPLICATIONThe successful use of PPV also dependsupon on the number and positioningof the fans. Where a single fan is beingused it should be positioned so that thestream of air is directed at the centre ofthe opening, with the cone of pres-surised air just covering the aperture. Arule of thumb is to position the fan thesame distance from the inlet openingas the aperture height. It is importantto ensure that the aperture is properlysealed in this way, otherwise there isthe risk that hot gasses and smoke maymove towards firefighters.

Where more than one fan is used,these are most effective if placed inseries; one behind the other, ratherthan side by side. The larger fan shouldbe nearest the building – about a metrefrom the opening – with the smaller

1616 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Mun

icip

al

A rule of thumb is to position thefan the same distance from theinlet opening as the apertureheight. It is important to ensurethat the aperture is properly sealed in this way, otherwise there is the risk that hot gassesand smoke may move towardsfirefighters.

P. 3-20 27/10/06 7:53 am Page 16

Page 19: IFF Issue 08

1717www.iffmag.comINTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Russwurm VentilatorenMade in Germany

...when mobile, compact but powerful fansare required.

Experienced in strongest fire and rescue situations. Used invehicles which have to be equipped for all incidents. For everyduty the right drive. All versions are available with certifiedexplosion-proofness. We offer a wide range of ATEX-certifiedfans for the zones 1, 2, 21 and 22 in axial and radial design.

If required, they can be customized to your

needs.

Detailed informations and PDF-filesfor downloads you can find atwww.ruwu.de or you simply call us.

Russwurm Ventilatoren GmbH | Ortsstrasse 25 | D-86405 Meitingen-OstendorfPhone: +49-8271-8175-0 | Fax: +49-8271-8175-40 | [email protected]: Martin Grant

s tungs- Ventilatoreni … and you have the air under control

Ho

ch le

P. 3-20 27/10/06 7:54 am Page 17

Page 20: IFF Issue 08

fan immediately behind, sealing theaperture. With larger openings, it maybe necessary to position the fans sideby side, although this is less effectiveand it is preferable to reduce the size ofthe opening if possible.

It is, of course, essential to create theoutlet vent before engaging the PPVfan or fans. Ideally, this should beslightly less than the size of the inletopening as this helps to ensure a build-up of positive pressure in the building.This may well call for other apertures inthe building, such as doors andwindows, to be closed. Under no cir-cumstances should the jet positioned atthe outlet vent direct water into thebuilding while venting is taking place,as this could put firefighters inside thebuilding at considerable risk.

Few buildings have just one room,floor or enclosure. In such cases, theappropriate technique is to adopt whatis known as a sequential approach. Thisinvolves providing the maximum vol-ume of pressurised air to ventilate eachenclosure in turn. This will inevitablymean manhandling the PPV equipmentalong corridors or up staircases and iswhy, if for no other reason, weight andmanoeuvrability of the equipment is soimportant.

LATEST PPV EQUIPMENTThe latest PPV fan to be introduced byTyco illustrates the sophistication ofthe equipment that is now available tobrigades. It is the result of a partner-

ship exercise that brought togetherTyco, the UK fire service and UnifirePower Blowers. Called the DST-3P4“Whisper”, it provides professional fire-fighters with a compact and super-quiet unit that meets their preciserequirements and addresses all of theissues raised by earlier critics of the useof PPV. It more than satisfies the “wishlist” of the UK Fire Brigades PPVWorking Group, including being able toelevate the fan by 20 degrees and lowerit by ten degrees.

The 460mm DST-3P4 is an unerringly

reliable unit that has the smallest pos-sible dimensions – it will fit into astandard locker – overcoming any sizeconcerns, without compromising per-formance or in-use stability. Its96dB(A) noise output at full throttlemeans that it is considered to have thelowest noise level of any PPV on themarket. In fact, it is believed to be theonly PPV unit available that is belowthe 98dB(A) level where, in many coun-tries, ear protection is compulsory.

Its stainless steel frame provides a full360-degree roll protection, and its one-piece, four-blade Unitron propeller hasbeen described as “virtually indestruc-tible”. The DST-3P4 also features apatented 30-position friction-lock tiltinglever, step-and-go quick locking brakes,and 203mm off-highway pneumaticwheels that ensure easy manoeuvrabilityover obstacles such as stairs, steps andcurbs.

It also incorporates ergonomically-designed extendable handles to ensurethat positioning the DST-3P4 isstraightforward and effortless. TheDST-3P4 incorporates a new Hondaoverhead camshaft engine and auto-matic ignition. Such is the robust engi-neering and durability that many of theparts carry a full five-year guarantee,and the unit has been tested andapproved by AMCA [Air Movement &Control Association], the internationallyrecognised, US-based PPV testingauthority.

CONCLUSIONSo, clearly, there is a compelling case infavour of the use of PPV. This is partic-ularly so following the introduction ofthe latest equipment that overcomes allof the earlier concerns and today’sgreater understanding of the need fortraining and fire scene control andcommunication.

This appears to be a view shared bymany firefighting professionals. In arecent survey of brigades in the UK, allseemed to agree that PPV is the mosteffective method of ventilation, andthis view was also held by brigades thatdo not have the equipment. Undoubt-edly though, all would also confirmthat the key to its successful use is toconsider at all times that PPV is part ofa well organised and coordinated fireground operation.

1818 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Mun

icip

al

Picture courtesy of Unifire Power Blowers

P. 3-20 11/17/06 4:22 PM Page 18

Page 21: IFF Issue 08

1919www.iffmag.comINTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

• 26 image capture and download

• choice of two sensor cores (BST and ASi microbolometer)

• x2 zoom function

• 8 screen colour settings - from monochrome to full colour

• customisable on-screen graphics

• spot and ambient temperature measurement

• integrated wireless video outputArgus®3

the height of technologye2v technologiestel: 01245 453727 • www.argusdirect.com/if2Argus® 3 - Trademark licensed from Argus Industries Inc.

P. 3-20 27/10/06 8:08 am Page 19

Page 22: IFF Issue 08

Tyres have a calorific value in theregion of 30 MJ kg-1, the valueexpected for a quality coal when

dry. Tyres contain materials additionalto the primary constituent rubber,notably carbon black. The combustionof tyres is of interest in areas otherthan fire protection, partly because somany worn-out ones – tens of millionsa year in the UK – have to be disposedof, and incineration is one option. Asso often happens with combustiblewastes there have been successfulattempts to obtain some benefit fromthe heat released on burning and thereis significant interest in TDF – tyre-derived fuels – on the world energyscene. The UK Company Elm Energyand Recycling produces 25 MW of

electricity for sale to the grid usingsteam in a Rankine cycle with wastetyre material as the fuel. There issimilar activity in the US at placesincluding Bay Front, Wisconsin.

When tyres are burnt intentionally alarge proportion of excess air is neces-sary, otherwise there will be very smokycombustion. This is because tyres whenhot undergo thermal decomposition(pyrolysis) reactions which producesolid carbon particles and oily vapours.Excess air is necessary to ensure that allsuch products go on to burn, formingcarbon dioxide and water vapour.Whilst the incinerator operator or theTDF user can control the air supply,there was of course no such controlpossible during the accidental burningof the cargo of tyres in the French roadtunnel fire. There, the only air supplywould have been that from the atmos-phere diffusing into the fire and we canconfidently conclude that the burningwould have been very dirty indeed. Thisis in any case confirmed by the newsreports where the term ‘heavy smoke’ isused.

One of the persons who died in thefire had abandoned his own vehicle andrun about half a mile through thesmoke, intending to escape from thetunnel, before collapsing. The currentHandbook of the Society of Fire Pro-tection Engineers considers smoke

effects on the occupants of an aircraftcabin filled with smoke from jet fuelwhich has burnt under oxygen-limitedconditions. In such circumstances inca-pacitation through asphyxiation of anindividual in the cabin is expected aftertwo to three minutes. There is broadconsistency between this and the fateof the fugitive from the fire in theFrench road tunnel. A good deal ofsemi-quantitative information on theeffect of smoke on persons exists and amore precise comparison than thatmade here will almost certainly featurein the formal follow-up.

2020 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Mun

icip

al

COMMENTARY ON THEFRENCH ROAD TUNNEL FIRE

IN JUNE 2005ON SATURDAY 4TH JUNE there was a fire in the Frejus Tunnel, a road tunnellinking France with Italy, in which two persons died. The author has noinformation on the fire other than that reported by the news agencies but willmake such comments as he can for the benefit of readers. It is clear from thereports that the fire began in a truck carrying tyres so to look at tyrecombustion will be a good start.

V I E W P O I N T

By J.C. JonesDepartment of Engineering

University of [email protected]

When tyres areburnt intentionallya large proportionof excess air isnecessary,otherwise therewill be very smokycombustion.

A good deal ofsemi-quantitativeinformation on theeffect of smoke onpersons exists anda more precisecomparison thanthat made herewill almostcertainly feature in the formalfollow-up.

P. 3-20 27/10/06 8:09 am Page 20

Page 23: IFF Issue 08

Industrial

p21 27/10/06 8:25 am Page 21

Page 24: IFF Issue 08

Hygood fire protection for high value assets

For further information, please contact:Tyco Safety Products, Burlingham House, Hewett Road,

Gapton Hall Industrial Estate, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk NR31 0NN.Tel: +44 (0)1493 417600 Fax: +44 (0)1493 417700

Email: [email protected] Web: www.macron-safety.com

Protect your high valueassets and your world

Fast acting

No environmental impact

Low life cycle cost

Electrically non-conductive

Zero breakdown products

No risk of consequential damage

300 bar storage

VdS approved components

Never under estimate the chance or the effects of fire. i3™ inert

gas systems provide the rapid, efficient response required to

effectively protect against virtually all combustible material and

flammable liquid fires.

Most importantly, i3™ inert gas is entirely environmentally

friendly as its component gases (Argon / Nitrogen) already

circulate freely in the atmosphere And this agent has no

impact of any kind on climate change.

Breathe freely, protect your high value assets and enjoy your

planet.

i3 is a trademark of a subsidiary of Tyco Holdings (UK) Ltd. Copyright © A subsidiary of Tyco Holdings (UK) Ltd.

692t i3/IFF 1105FP 13/10/05 10:33 am Page 1

Page 25: IFF Issue 08

Firefighters responding to a railcarspill of dimethylamine wore whatthey believed to be the correct

totally encapsulating suit, made ofbutyl rubber with neoprene gloves andpolycarbonate faceshields. However, inresponding to the spill, one team mem-ber’s faceshield crazed and split openexposing the responder to the toxicchemical. While there were no long-term effects to the responders, theincident was considered serious enoughto warrant an investigation by theNational Transportation Safety Board.The National Transportation SafetyBoard concluded that incorrect protec-tive suits were selected because thefaceshield was not compatible withdimethylamine (though appropriate forbutyl rubber) and recommended thatthe government and private industrypursue standards on chemical protec-tive clothing for emergency response.

In about the same time period,Memphis firefighters responding to an

ammonia leak at a refrigeration plantopted not to wear their optional “flash”covers that were provided with theirbutyl chemical protective suits. Unfor-tunately, an unknown ignition sourcelit off the leaking ammonia causing afireball within the closed space. Onefirefighter died while the other wasseriously injured. Many believed that ifthe firefighters had been wearing theiraluminized overcovers, neither wouldhave been affected.

Other serious accidents haveoccurred over the years and while theexperience of both municipal andindustrial hazardous materials teamshas grown considerably, the effective-ness of providing adequate protectionto the responder has been most affectedby promulgation of National Fire Pro-tection Association (NFPA) standardson emergency chemical protectiveclothing. The NFPA began its efforts todevelop comprehensive performancestandards on chemical protective

clothing in 1985, primarily in responseto the NTSB recommendation. A newNFPA subcommittee on this subjectworked for six years until the firststandards were released in 1991. Dur-ing the development of the standard,the subcommittee had several issues toconsider, including:

● Testing of all materials, seams, andcomponents for chemical resistance,not just the garment material thathad been industry practice;

● Identification of a common batteryof chemicals for requiring manufac-turer testing;

● The need for physical protection fromrough surfaces, jagged edges, andother hazards at the response site;

● A mandatory requirement forsuit/material flame resistance; and

● Multiple uses of chemical protectivesuits.

The subcommittee chose to establishtwo levels of protection – vapor protec-tion and liquid splash protection. Thesetwo levels became embodied in twodifferent standards with correspon-dence to the EPA levels as shown onthe next page.

23www.iffmag.comINTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Industrial

Pic courtesy of Trelleborg Protective Products

UnderstandingNFPA 1991 and why it isImportant tothe Fire Serviceand IndustryIN THE EARLY 1980S when many communities were in the process of settingup their own hazardous materials response teams, one particular incident inBenicia, California became a pivotal event driving the development ofstandards on chemical protective clothing for emergency response.

UnderstandingNFPA 1991 and why it isImportant tothe Fire Serviceand Industry By Jeffrey O. Stull

P. 21-42 27/10/06 8:30 am Page 23

Page 26: IFF Issue 08

Using this hierarchy, the NFPAattempted to define protective clothingtypes on the basis of needed perfor-mance as demonstrated by test methodsdesigned to measure the type ofprotection provided. This schemeassociated clothing gas-tight integrityand material permeation resistancewith vapor protection and clothingliquid-tight integrity and material pen-etration resistance with liquid splashprotection. These performance-baseddefinitions were intended to replace thehistorical EPA levels of protection thatdefine what clothing should look likebut not how it should perform.

In addition to defining a perfor-mance hierarchy among different typesof chemical protective clothing, theNFPA standards defined uniformrequirements for chemical resistanceand limited flame resistance for ensur-ing a consistent level of performance

for all parts of the clothing ensemble.These decisions were paramount increation of the two NFPA standardssince they established an elevatedrequirement for performance comparedto the then industry practices.

Chemical resistance testing require-ments were based on the manufacturerdemonstrating performance against abattery of chemicals – 21 differentchemicals in the case of NFPA 1991and 7 different chemicals for NFPA1992. The requirements extended to allparts of the chemical protective suits,including the garment, visor, glove, andfootwear materials in addition toseams. Furthermore, because of poten-tial material breakdown that couldoccur during use, chemical resistancetesting (permeation for NFPA 1991 andpenetration for NFPA 1992), these testsare required to be conducted onmaterial samples that first had been

subjected to abrasion andrepeated flexing, as mightoccur in use. Theserequirements raised thebar significantly in thechemical protective cloth-ing industry.

The inclusion of aflame resistance require-ment was a debated area.Ultimately, the NFPAdecided to require that allparts of the chemical pro-tective suit be flame resis-tant. End users on theNFPA subcommittee didnot want the “suit wearerto become walking torch-es” in an accidental flashfire situation. In otherwords, the subcommitteereasoned that the suititself should not con-tribute to the wearer’shazards. This decision wassignificant because at the

time, all suits used either rubber orplastic materials. Many of these wouldreadily ignite or melt when exposed tohigh heat or flame.

At the time the new NFPA standardsfirst appeared in 1991 (the number ofthe standard is not related to the yearof its introduction), there were noproducts that could meet all of therequirements without some changes.Nearly all manufacturers had toimprove seam construction to meet theseam chemical resistance requirementsand carefully consider combinations ofgloves and footwear to meet differentchemical, physical, and flame resistancerequirements. However, the fundamen-tal challenge lay in providing a suitmaterial which could demonstratebroad chemical resistance to the batteryof chemicals, be physical durable, andalso resist ignition when contacted byflame.

Manufacturers approached this chal-lenge with two different approaches:

1. Manufacturers of plastic-basedmaterial suits decided to use anouter flame resistant suit. This suitnot only provided flame resistancebut also protected the vulnerableplastic-based material from abrasionand other physical hazards, whichare required in testing. The suit-in-suit concept took the form of analuminized suit over the plastic suitto conform to the new requirementsof the NFPA standards. The alu-minized overcover became a popularidea because it connoted flash fireprotection, even though it was alsorequired to meet the abrasion resis-tance requirement in the standard.

2. Other manufacturers developedimprovements of their currentdurable materials to meet all perfor-mance requirements. This approachmeant that the single layer materialsuit met the requirements in theNFPA standards, including the diffi-cult abrasion and flame resistancetests.

These approaches have created twoseparate classes of chemical protectivesuits that meet NFPA requirements.Plastic-based suits tend to be charac-terized as single or limited use products,while the single-layer suits are generally

2424 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Indu

stria

l

Type of Corresponds Material Overall ClothingClothing to Performance* Performance*

Vapor protective EPA Level A Permeation resistance Gas-tight integrity (NFPA 1991)

Liquid-splash protective EPA Level B Penetration resistance Liquid-tight integrity (NFPA 1992)

Definitions of Protective Clothing Types by Performance Tests in NFPA Standards

Pic courtesy of Trelleborg Protective Products

* See explanations of material and overall clothing performance tests

P. 21-42 27/10/06 8:30 am Page 24

Page 27: IFF Issue 08

2525www.iffmag.comINTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

WEIGHS LESSTHAN 1.5lbs

•UNIQUE FACEMASK SEAL

ERGONOMICS•

RAYTHEONMICRO

BOLOMETERSENSOR

SOLOvision is a fully operational thermal imagingcamera with Virtual Reality Viewing Optics. The lightweight and unique ergonomic design enables ‘handsfree’ operation.

The image is picked up through a centrally mountedcamera. Even in the thickest smoke and with theface visor entirely covered, the image seen by thewearer remains undiminished in quality.

Thermal image is displayed to the wearer throughaugmented viewing lenses.

Suitable for use with all knownbreathing apparatus sets.

SOLOvision’s outer shell comes with a lifetimewarranty. Subject to terms and conditions.

Thermal Image displayed through VR Viewing optics Solotic Imaging Camera

For information on all our fire fighting products or to arrange a demonstration, visit:www.gbsolo.co.uk | www.gbsolo.com | Tel: +44 1609 881855 | Fax: +44 1609 881103 | Email: [email protected]

P. 21-42 11/17/06 4:33 PM Page 25

Page 28: IFF Issue 08

more robust (durable) and are consid-ered reusable. Unfortunately, many endusers and some distributors of theseproducts tend to misunderstand ormisrepresent the two classes of prod-ucts. The plastic-based suits are onlycompliant with NFPA 1991 when bothouter cover and inner suit are worntogether. The NFPA subcommitteenever intended that the outer cover beconsidered an option (in the same waythat was perceived for the Memphisfirefighters). Yet there are severalorganizations that consider this practiceas acceptable even though it voids thecertification of the clothing ensemble.For the class of suits requiring theovercover to meet NFPA standards,the overcover must be in place at alltimes when the suit is used.

There is no doubt that the NFPAstandards have created a more protectiveensemble for emergency responders.These standards have now been revisedthree times since their initial release in1991 (new editions were promulgated in1994, 2000 and earlier this year), witheach revision adding new requirementsand improvements to the protectionoffered. Consequently, the use of NFPA-compliant standards is intended toprovide the minimum level of protectionfor emergency responders and accountsfor the broad range of hazards thatemergency responders may encounter.

Future articles in this series willaddress other details related to theNFPA standards and the differencesbetween products in the marketplace.

PERFORMANCE TESTS IN NFPA STANDARDS

The key distinction between NFPA1991 and 1992 are tests for materialchemical resistance and overall clothing

integrity. NFPA 1991 requires thatmaterials meet a permeation resistancetest. In this test, chemical is placed onone side of a material sample in a testcell, while the other side of the materialcontains a “collection medium” that isperiodically sampled and analyzed forchemical that passes through (permeates)the material. The time required forchemical to permeate is reported as thebreakthrough time. NFPA 1991 requiresthat breakthrough times must begreater than 1 hour with continuousexposure to the chemical. NFPA 1991

also requires permeation testing against15 different representative liquids and6 different gases. The 2005 edition alsoincludes chemical warfare agents andadditional toxic industrial chemicals ofconcern in terrorism attacks. In com-parison, NFPA 1992 uses a penetrationtest. Like the permeation test, a materialsample is placed in a test cell with testchemical on one side. However, thepenetration test involves a test operatorlooking at the opposite side of thematerial for liquid chemical comingthrough the material. NFPA 1992 pene-tration testing is conducted against 7different liquid chemicals. The require-ment in NFPA 1992 is that no chemicalcan be seen to penetrate the materialwithin the one-hour test period.However, because chemicals can stillpermeate through materials at a molec-ular level, garments meeting NFPA1992 are only for splash protection andshould not be used in situations wherecontact with skin toxic or carcinogenicchemical is expected.

Integrity tests effectively evaluatehow well suits prevent entry of chemi-cals through any part of the suit. InNFPA 1991, suits are inflated and arerequired to hold pressure (after theexhaust valves have been blocked) as ademonstration of gas-tight integrity.This same type of test is used in thefield to evaluate if suits are still viablefor use. Since NFPA 1992 suits are usedfor splash protection, a liquid-basedshower test is used to determine ifliquids will penetrate through openingsor interfaces in the suit. In the showertest, the suit is placed on a manikinthis is sprayed with surfactant-treatedwater from several different directions.The interior of the suit is then exam-ined for liquid leakage. NFPA 1992requires that no liquid be found insidethe suit or on the manikin.

2626 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Indu

stria

l

Both NFPA 1991 and 1992 haveother requirements for materialphysical hazard resistance, dura-bility, flame resistance, and com-ponent performance. Performancetests are used instead of designspecifications to allow manufac-turers latitude in how they designand develop chemical protectiveclothing.

Pic courtesy of Trelleborg Protective Products

Pic courtesy of Trelleborg Protective Products

P. 21-42 27/10/06 8:31 am Page 26

Page 29: IFF Issue 08

• •

TM

R

FDIC LAUNCHES INTHE MIDDLE EAST

6 - 10 May 2006Bahrain International Exhibition CentreManama, Kingdom of Bahrain

Under the patronage of

H.E. Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al KhalifaMinister of the Interior

The Fire Department Instructors’ Conference(FDIC), the world’s largest and most prestigious annual exhibition, conference andH.O.T. (Hands-On-Training) programmespecifically designed to meet the needs of firefighters, is coming to the Middle East. Thisexciting new event in Bahrain, will presentanyone involved in the business of fire fightingin the Middle East with new opportunities to:

• Train under the expert guidance of some of theworld’s best, most experienced instructors in the highlyrealistic H.O.T sessions.• Learn about the latest thinking on command andcontrol of major fire related incidents in the world-classconference. • Exhibit and showcase the latest services, technologiesand equipment to potential clients across 7000 sq mtrsof exhibition floor attracting professionals from the petrochemical, aviation and industrial fire and securitysectors, from Civil Defence Forces throughout theregion, from local authorities, government agencies andfrom private companies involved in fire.• Network with key industry personnel all located under one roof, making FDIC Bahrain 2006 a one-stop-shop for the fire sector in the Middle East.

For all professionals involved in the fire industry, FDICBahrain 2006 is a must attend event. Ensure you don’tmiss this opportunity to train, learn, meet new clients,develop business leads for the future and discover theprospects this industry has to offer within the MiddleEast region.

For more information:

Web: www.fdicbahrain.com

E-mail: Glenn Ensor on [email protected]

Owned and produced by:

Co-organised by:

Flagship Media Sponsor:

Co-hosted by:

Supporting Organizations

FDIC06_advert_a4 28/10/05 3:22 pm Page 1

Page 30: IFF Issue 08

Tankmaster™ from Angus Fire is thepremier fire fighting foam concen-trate for the world oil industry. A

modern high-performance FluoroProteinfoam, it was developed specifically forlarge-scale hydrocarbon storage tank firefighting.

Proven performanceTankmaster™ passes the stringent LAST-FIRE test with flying colours. This is theoil industry’s own foam test that simu-lates real-life storage tank fire fightingconditions.

Equipment compatibleTankmaster™ is ideal for use with large-capacity aspirating “Colossus” type moni-tors, large-capacity semi-aspirating (alsocalled non-aspirating) monitors, and fixedfoam system pouring nozzles. It passesLASTFIRE tests in all three categories. Inaddition, it has a comprehensive set ofUnderwriters Laboratories Listings for usewith storage tank fixed foam equipment.

MTBETankmaster™ is UL Listed not only onhydrocarbon fuel, but also on the gasolineadditive methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE)and blends of MTBE and gasoline.

Goes the distanceTankmaster™ produces a stable and long-lasting foam blanket that travels long

distances over burning liquid surfaces.This is important since the average diam-eter of a tank is 60 to 75 metres, with thelargest being around 110 metres.

Resists intense heatTankmaster™ has a protein-based “skeletal”structure inside its bubble walls thatprovides exceptional resistance to heat,enabling it to pass through flames andimpact on hot fuel.

Seals against hot edgesTankmaster™ has bubble walls that aretough enough to overcome high fuelvapour pressures around the periphery ofthe burning fuel and seal tightly againsteven the hottest “cherry red” tank shellsand obstructions.

Resists fuel pick-upThe detergent-free formulation ofTankmaster™ makes its bubbles inherentlyfuel repellant, enabling it to tolerate eventhe most vigorous mixing with hydrocar-bon fuel when applied “over the top” fromground-based monitors. This is crucial inminimising the risk of flashback.

Suppresses vapoursTankmaster™ prevents ghosting andflashover by forming a tough cohesivefoam blanket that stops flammablevapours from percolating through thebubbles.

Protects against re-ignitionThe unique water retention properties ofTankmaster™ mean that it releases waterevenly and efficiently over the wholesurface area of the fuel, cooling the deeplayers of hot fuel and so preventing re-ignition and burnback. This isespecially important when on-scenesupplies of foam concentrate are runninglow or exhausted.

Long shelf-lifeTankmaster™ does not suffer the storageproblems exhibited by some AlcoholResistant AFFF products. This is becauseit does not contain the viscous “polymer”material that can lead to reduced shelf-life and inaccurate proportioning.

Low environmental impactTankmaster™ is based on a natural andrenewable organic protein material. Itdoes not contain any of the man-madedetergent or glycol ether chemicals foundin AR-AFFF, and its fluorocarbon contentis also much lower, telomer-based, andPFOS-free. It is less ecotoxic than AR-AFFF,and its detergent-free formulation meansit does not disrupt the operation of oilseparators.

EconomicalTankmaster™ offers major cost savingsover Alcohol Resistant (AR) grades ofAFFF and FFFP. AR foams contain extraingredients for alcohol resistance andfilm-formation, neither of which arenecessary for hydrocarbon storage tankfire fighting.

Quick responseAngus Fire has a proven track-record ofsupplying urgently needed stocks of foamto major incident sites world wide. Wesupport you 24/7 wherever you are based.Simply call our emergency service hotlineon +44 (0) 15242 61166.

The Only Sensible ChoiceThe mainstay of foam technology in the oilindustry today, no other foam combinesexceptional fire fighting performance withvalue for money like Tankmaster™.

2828 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Indu

stria

l P R O D U C T P R O F I L E

For more information contact:

Angus FireThame Park Road, Thame,Oxfordshire OX9 3RT, UK

Tel: +46 (0) 1844 265000Fax: +46 (0) 1844 265156

E-mail:[email protected]: www.angusfire.co.uk

TANKMASTER™FROM ANGUS FIRE

P. 21-42 27/10/06 8:33 am Page 28

Page 31: IFF Issue 08

2929www.iffmag.comINTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

● Dual helmet system complies with InternationalStandards - ER1 Emergency and Rescueand FR2 Structural Fire Fighting

● ER1 Emergency and Rescue helmet with adjustable headband andretractable goggle, suitable forparamedics, civil defence, RTA,police and rescue personnel

● Outer FR2 helmet shell and retractable face shield fits easily over ER1 helmet in seconds

● FR2 fire fighters helmet can befitted with neck cape, integralcommunications and SCABA mask fixing points

Helmet Integrated Systems Ltd.Commerce Road, Stranraer,DG9 7DX, Scotland, UKTel: +44 (0) 1776 704421 Fax: +44 (0) 1776 706342 E-mail: [email protected]

HELMETINTEGRATED SYSTEMS

www.helmets.co.ukER1-FR2

A D V A N C E D D U A L H E L M E T T E C H N O L O G Y

ER1-FR2

E R1 F R 2 F R 2

F R 2ER1 FR2

E R1 F R 2

ADAPTABLE PROTECTION FOR EVERY EMERGENCY

CROMWELL DUAL HELMET SYSTEM

NEW

CROMWELL®

EERR11--FR2FR2ER1-FR2 ER1-FR2

E R1 F R 2 F R 2

F R 2ER1 FR2

E R1 F R 2

P. 21-42 27/10/06 8:33 am Page 29

Page 32: IFF Issue 08

Our own country the UK is nolonger a major player on theworld coal scene, now produc-

ing only 35-40 million tonne of hardcoal per annum compared, for example,to the US which produces in excess of800 million tonne and Indonesia whichproduces about 100 million tonne.Other countries producing hard coal inquantities in excess of 100 milliontonne per annum include Australia,South Africa and the former SovietUnion. Yet 80 years ago the UK pro-duction was three quarters the USproduction which, taking account ofthe differences in population and landmass, means that the UK productionwas prodigious. At least in the UK thecoal industry continues to the presenttime, on a much reduced scale: inBelgium the coal mining industry,which once had an output comparableto that of Canada, ‘closed shop’altogether in 1992.

It has long been recognised thatChina is one of the most coal richcountries in the world and her currentproduction is 1326 million tonne peryear. Even so, China imports much coaland the same is true in relation to heroil reserves: there are large reserves ofoil in China, but the country has been

a net importer of oil since the early’nineties and she continues to providefor further imports by investing in newpipeline structures to bring oil into thecountry. Fuel supply and demand ishighly complex and full of anomaliesand the author is unwilling to make adirect correlation between the factsrecounted above and the competenceor otherwise of those in managementand policymaking roles on the Chinafuels scene. This is partly because he isaware of several very promising enter-prises on the part of the Chinese oilcompany Sinopec, both within Chinaand elsewhere.

That standards of safety in coal min-ing in China are open to strong criti-cism is however irrefutable, nor does itrepresent merely a recent slip in stan-dards. The worst coal mining accidenton record occurred in Honkeiko, Chinain 1942 when 1549 lives were lostthrough explosions in the mine. To setthat in context, in 20th Century Britainthere were only three coal mining acci-dents in which the death toll exceeded100.

The primary explosion hazard in amine is of course coal-bed methane,known to miners as firedamp. Methaneis much less dense than air and so

tends to rise to the ceiling of an enclo-sure within a mine where there hasbeen leakage. This is advantageousfrom the safety point of view, and inearlier generations there were mineemployees whose job it was to enterthe mine before a shift began in orderto ignite, from a safe distance, methanewhich had accumulated that way dur-ing the previous shift. The other explo-sion hazard in mines is coal dust. Itappears that at in the Honkeiko acci-dent coal dust had become suspendedin firedamp, a lethal combinationindeed. Where death is not due to thedirect effect of an explosion, with itsheat and overpressure, it can be due toinhalation of carbon monoxide, knownin the mining industry as afterdamp,which is a product of any explosionwhich might have occurred and ishighly poisonous.

All of this we can broadly relate towhat we know of the catalogue ofmining disasters in China recently.China has not raised, or even moni-tored, the safety of coal mining overthe decades but is needing more andmore coal now to provide energy forthe developments in which the countryis engaging. We conclude by returningto our comparison of coal usage andthat of oil. There are no ‘developments’which do not have associated energycosts and the consequent buying up ofhuge amounts of crude oil by Chinahas been a factor in trends of oil pricesin recent months. As things stand, anyredressing of this situation by usingdomestic coal instead of imported oilto ‘develop’ China must be deprecatedin the strongest terms. Domestic oil,maybe!

3030 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Indu

stria

l

CHINA COAL MINE FIRESMORE THAN 40 WORKERS were killed as a result of an accident in a coalmine in China on 3rd August this year and such accidents are happening withvery disturbing frequency in China at present. Altogether 6000 Chineseminers were killed at work in 2004. A little background on the coal industryinternationally will be a useful lead-in to this commentary.

V I E W P O I N T

That standards of safety in coalmining in China are open tostrong criticism is howeverirrefutable, nor does it representmerely a recent slip in standards.

By J.C. JonesDepartment of Engineering

University of [email protected]

P. 21-42 27/10/06 8:33 am Page 30

Page 33: IFF Issue 08

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

APFUncertaintyFire.ai 10/6/2005 12:50:57 PMAPFUncertaintyFire.ai 10/6/2005 12:50:57 PM

Page 34: IFF Issue 08

32323232 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

P. 21-42 27/10/06 8:35 am Page 32

Page 35: IFF Issue 08

ALBERT ZIEGLER AIRPORTCRASH TENDER

in compliance with ICAO, ADV,NFPA, CEM.A.N. chassis 36.1000 VFAEG 8x8M.A.N. V 12-cylinder diesel engine with735 kW/1,000 PS, EURO 2.RENK 5-speed automatic transmissionwith retarder and mechanical emergencyshifting.Progressive coil spring suspension.EG brake system with ABS.Single tires 16.00 R 20 Michelin XZL.Max. speed 138 km/h.Acceleration approx. 25 s from 0-80km/h.GVW 40 t.

ZIEGLER ALPAS large cab for a crewof 1+2 or 1+3Excellent viewing angle for driver and inextinguishing actions through the largewindows.Fold-down treadboards ensure optimumentry to the cab. All seats are air-cushioned, have head-rests and integrated 3-point safety belts.Co-drivers' seats with integrated BAbrackets.

ZIEGLER ALPAS superstructureModular construction, resulting in easyaccess for service and repair. Largemaintenance flaps.ZIEGLER AZ roller shutters, fold-downtreadboard in the rear.The rugged ZIEGLER aluminium panelsystem (ALPAS) with screwed light-weight profiles is used for allsuperstructure moduls.The connection of the aluminium ele-ments is via drop forging, resulting inan exceptional bending and torsionresistance.

ZIEGLER extinguishing agent tanksGRP-tanks.Water/foam contents from 11,000 l upto 15,000 l (depending on GVW).1 or 2 foam tanks as requested.Optional: Outside contents indicator forwater tank.

ZIEGLER pump unitWith separate M.A.N. engine, thus

completely independant of the vehicleengine. Pump performance from 6,000 l/min upto 10,000 l/min.Optional with high pressure part 300l/min at 40 bar.Double piston priming systemTROKOMAT PLUS.Automatic flow controlled pump pro-portioner MAD/EAD with proportioningrates adjustable by remote control.Automatic pressure control TOURMATD.Self-protection unit (7 nozzles), perfor-mance approx. 400 l/min.Rapid intervention unit water/foam withGRP reels, swivelling range 90°.

Bumper monitor, electrically remotecontrolledWith a performance of 1,000 l/min upto 3,800 l/min, electronic joy-stickcontrol.Nozzle or combination pipe version asrequested.Throw 40 up to 65 m.For water/foam or with hydro-chemtechnology for water/foam/DC.Elektrohydraulically raisable and sinkableRHINO bumper monitor.

Roof monitorWith a performance of 5,000 l/min upto 6,000 l/min.Electronic joy-stick proportional control.

Nozzle or combination pipe version asrequested.Manual emergency control via handwheels.Throw 75 up to 90 m.For water/foam or with hydro-chemtechnology for water/foam/DC.

Operation and controlElectronic control of the extinguishingunit via PLC with CAN-Bus networking.Ergonomically designed control panelswith displays in driver's cab and in thepump bay.1 or 2 control panels for operation bydriver and/or co-driver as requested.The high automation ensures a safe andfaultless operation also in extremesituations. Integrated diagnostic system and remotediagnosis via modem.

Options● CRASH RESCUE elevated extendable

extinguishing arm SNOZZLE, heightof reach approx. 15 m, swivellingrange to the left and right 30°.Nozzles for extinguishing arm up to4,800 l/min.

● Piercing nozzle with 1,000 l/min. ● Combined water/foam/DC nozzles for

all monitors and extinguishing arm. ● DC extinguishing units from 250 kg

up to 1,000 kg, low or high pressureunits as requested.

● CO2 extinguishing units from 60 kg

33www.iffmag.comINTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

IndustrialIndustrial Vehicles

Stuttgart Airport, Germany

P. 21-42 27/10/06 8:35 am Page 33

Page 36: IFF Issue 08

up to 360 kg with rapid interventionunits.

● Outside starting unit with up to 20different functions.

● Lighting system for the surroundingswith fluorescent strip lamps.

● Additional XENON lights in the frontand in the rear.

● Backing video and/or infraredcamera.

● Airconditioned driver's cab, auxiliaryheating etc.

● Light-mast with generator. ● Holders and brackets for equipment

in compliance with ADV and ICAO.

ROSENBAUER INTERNATIONAL AG

AIRPORT RESCUE AND FIRE-FIGHTING VEHICLE PANTHER 6x6 CA5 – ARFFV12000/1500/135ROSENBAUER Motors CFR 6x6Newcastle Airport, UKROSENBAUER International AG

CHASSISType: ROSENBAUER Motors CFR 6x6 Engine type: Caterpillar 4-stroke dieselengine, in line with EURO 3 Engine output: 705 HP at 2100 min -1 Gearbox: Twin Disc TD61-1180, 6-speedautomatic

CABCab design: ROSENBAUER Aluminium-Konstruktion fix aufgebaut, bestehendaus: Aluminium-Formrohrgerippe mitAluminium-Verblechung und Alu-Dachkantenprofil, Stahl-Stoßstange,großflächige Verglasung, Glas-DrehürenCrew: 1 + 3 SCBA fittings: 4, integrated into theseats

SUPERSTRUCTURESelf-supporting ROSENBAUER laser-cutaluminium panelling in bonding/boltingdesign, with glass fibre reinforcedpolyester add-ons

EXTINGUISHING AGENTSWater tank capacity/material: 12,000 l/polypropylene Foam tank capacity/material: 1,500 l/polypropylene, integrated into the watertank Powder unit: 135 kg

PUMP UNITType/location: ROSENBAUER R600normal pressure pump, midships Drive: Power Divider Pump output NP: 7,000 l/min Foam admixing system: automaticROSENBAUER FOAMATIC RVMA 500NP admixing system Admixing rate: 3, 6 and 8%

FRONT MONITORType/operation: NEW FEATURE!ROSENBAUER RM12E water/AFFFmonitor with electrical remote controlvia a joystick Output: 1,200 l/min Fixtures: infinitely adjustable, electricalstraight jet/spray setting

ROOF MONITORType/operation: NEW FEATURE!ROSENBAUER RM60E water/foammonitor with electronic remote controlvia a pistol grip Output: 5,000 l/min Throw: approx. 90 m Features: searchlight, 50% partialquantity setting, foam barrel

QUICK ATTACK HANDLINEType: 1 ROSENBAUER water/foam reel Hose type: non-collapsible rubber hose Hose length/DN: 50 m/32 mm Branch pipe design: ROSENBAUER RB 101

QUICK ATTACK HANDLINEType: 1 ROSENBAUER powder reel

Hose type: non-collapsible rubber hose Hose length: 40 m/32 mm Branch pipe design: 5 kg/sec powderpistol

SELF-PROTECTION SYSTEM5 ground sweep nozzles

SPECIAL FEATURES● 24V inboard voltage ● Engine with Euro 3 accreditation ● Air-conditioning ● Right-hand drive ● Differential locks ● 2 pressure-reduced outlets ● 35 kg BCF unit with lowering device ● 2 ladder lowering devices ● Design painting

TECHNICAL DATAOperating weight: approx. 31,000 kg L x B x H: 11.84 x 3.0 x 3.5 m Max. operational speed: 120 kph Acceleration: from 0-80 kph in 32 sec

SIDES

Industry RangeOil, gas and chemical industries usehighly flammable products in largequantities.The VMR series vehicles aredesigned to have a very important firefighting capability thanks to highoutput pumps, mixing systems andmonitors.Several different agents can beused either separately or simultaneouslyon a vehicle: water, foam, dry powder.

The VMR 40 BE vehicle gives an easyreach to the top surface of high risetanks.

FOAM VEHICLE FOR REFINERY TYPEVMR 140 SPECIFIC

Cab-ChassisMERCEDES

3434 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Indu

stria

l

Panther 6x6 CA5

Panther 6x6 CA5

P. 21-42 27/10/06 8:36 am Page 34

Page 37: IFF Issue 08

TANKFoam compound capacity14,000 l

Water pumpSIDES type FP 10000

Output/Pressure8,300 l/min-10 bar

Proportioning system automatic byinjectionSIDES type I.D.A.600

Pressure RegulationHydraulic by RPU 200

FIRE-FIGHTING EQUIPMENTFoam monitorSIDES type CM 50/80 IF assisted

Output5,600 to 8,000 l/min

Range90 to 120 m (depending on output)

Portable foam branch pipeSIDES type LMP 500 (Qty: 2)

Output450 l/min

Range30 m

SK FIRE INDUSTRIAL FIRE FIGHTER

Currently in operation with the Ministryof Defence in Brunei, this unit is one of a series of similar appliances thatprotect military installations in theSultanate.

Based on a Volvo FM9 6x4, with a

320 hp engine, 6 speed automatictransmission and a 4 door, fully tiltingcrew cab providing seating for eightpersons (driver plus seven) and ‘quickdon’ SCBA brackets for the 4 forwardfacing seated crew in the rear crew cabcompartment.

The coach built superstructure com-prises three full vehicle width separatemodules contoured to the cab andmounted such as to provide maximumflexibility for chassis movements. Thecentre module comprises a formed inte-grated 7,000 litre/1,000 litre water andfoam tank fabricated in stainless steel.

Front and rear modules are fabricatedin stainless steel frame work withaluminium panelling with all threemodules top decking in heavy gaugepositive grip aluminium tread plates and perimeter low safety railings. Access to the decking is by two recessedboarding ladders at the rear of theappliance.

The rear module houses a UL Listed,Rosenbauer NH40 multi-pressure waterpump rated at 4,000 litre/minute at 10bar normal pressure (NP) and 400litre/minute at 40 bar high pressure (HP)with four normal pressure deliveryoutlets.

The pump incorporates a RosenbauerFix Mix integral automatic RTP (round-the-pump) foam proportioning systemfor both NP and HP, independent ofpump pressure and/or discharge rates.Foam concentrate percentages can beset at 3% and 6% for NP and 3% forHP.

A top deck mounted RosenbauerRM25 aspirated water/foam monitor isremote controlled by a single handoperated ‘joy stick’ from inside thedriver’s cab.

The rear and front modules are eachfitted with 2 large lockers, one on eachside, enclosed by anodized aluminiumroller shutters. The rear lockers eachenclose a high pressure hose reel 54 mof 19 mm smooth bore hose terminat-ing in trigger controlled jet/fog/spraybranch guns.

The front lockers provide stowage fordelivery hoses, branch pipes, aluminisedsuits, additional SCBA’s, etc.

35www.iffmag.comINTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Industrial

SIDES VMR 140

SK Fire Industrial Fire Fighter

P. 21-42 27/10/06 8:36 am Page 35

Page 38: IFF Issue 08

Today’s operational demands onthe Fire and Rescue Services havechanged dramatically since the

days of the cork fire helmet, giving the need to provide increased levels ofprotection for personnel involved in fireand rescue operations.

It is generally accepted that less thana third of all ‘call outs’ to the Fire andRescue Services require the need for astructural fire fighting helmet. Otherincidents not requiring this type ofhelmet include road traffic accidents,woodland fire fighting, water rescue,urban search and rescue and industrialincidents such as confined space rescueoperations.

To meet these requirements HelmetIntegrated Systems Ltd. (HISL) hasdeveloped its new Cromwell dualhelmet system featuring two helmetshells that can be integrated into one.

The base helmet – the Cromwell ER1– is for Level 1 emergency and rescueoperations that do not require astructural fire-fighting helmet.

The ER1 can also be used by para-medic, water rescue and civil defencepersonnel and is fitted with an internal

goggle and a connection for optionalear defenders. In addition the helmetcan be configured for specialized oper-ations such as heli-deck, coastguard,air sea rescue and public security.

The Cromwell FR2 with an integralfull face shield, has an internal cliparrangement enabling it to be fitted tothe ER1 in seconds, providing additionalheat, flame and impact protection tothe wearer when undertaking structuralfire fighting operations.

The design of the modular internalconnection for the two helmet shellsensures that there are no connectionson the outside of the helmet that are susceptible to potential impactdamage, or heat load.

The FR2 can also be fitted withintegral communications, neck capesand SCABA facemask fixing points.

The Cromwell helmet is manu-factured using the latest mouldingtechniques and materials and has beendeveloped to meet the requirements ofthe planned UK Fire Services IntegratedClothing Project (ICP).

The new helmet is also designed with

reference to published internationalanthropometrical data relating to bothmale and female fire fighters, andrescue personnel, across a range ofethnic groups, ensuring that the helmetwill be suitable for international use.

HISL, the Hertfordshire UK based, ISO9001 approved manufacturer of the newCromwell, supplies most of the UK FireServices with its Cromwell F500 andF600 fire helmets and is the leadinginternational supplier of aircrew helmetsfor military and commercial aircraft.

HISL is able to offer sample helmetsfor evaluation and trial to interestedfire and emergency service users.

3636 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Indu

stria

l P R O D U C T P R O F I L E

For more information contact:

Helmet IntegratedSystems Ltd.

Commerce Road, Stranraer DG9 7DX, Scotland, UK

Tel: +44 (0) 1776 704421Fax: +44 (0) 1776 706342

Email: [email protected]: www.helmets.co.uk

The Cromwell ER1 Emergency andRescue Helmet

The FR2 fits easily and quickly over theER1 when structural fire fightingprotection is required

The Cromwell FR2 Structural FireFighting Helmet

THE NEW CROMWELLDUAL HELMET SYSTEM

P. 21-42 27/10/06 8:36 am Page 36

Page 39: IFF Issue 08

Husqvarna Construction Products, SE–433 81 Partille, Sweden. Tel: +46 (0)31-94 90 00. Fax: +46 (0)31-94 91 14. www.partner-industrial.com

Partner offers two powerful and reliable rescue cutters: The Partner K950 Rescue and the K650 Rescue. The Partner K950 Rescue is our largest rescue cutter and has a higher power-to-weight ratio than any other rescue cutter on the market.

The Partner K650 Rescue is a smaller and lighter machine that fits in most types of rescue vehicles.

Easy start and the specially designed starter handle with room for heavy gloves make our cutters really easy to start.Reliability is increased considerably, since the Active AirFiltration System is protected inside the casing and the cuttingarm has a sealed drive belt. The chromium plated blade guard,which is visible in smoke, steam and water spray, makesoperations much easier to control.

PARTNER K950/K650 RESCUEEngine Air-cooled 2-cycle engineDisplacement 94 cc /71 ccPower 4,5 kW/3,5 kWWeight, without fuel and blade 10,4 kg/9,1 kg

Cutting equipment, blade:Diameter 350 mm (14") /300 mm (12")Cutting depth 125 mm (5") /100 mm (4")

Rapid and reliable.

Partner w/p 17/11/05 10:21 am Page 1

Page 40: IFF Issue 08

38383838 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Pumps that lives depend on

When lives are at stake you must have the pump that is specifically designed for the task.

Angus Fire supplies a full range of petrol and diesel portable fire pumps specifically for fire

fighting professionals from 12hp (9kW) to 60hp (44kW).

THAME PARK ROAD, THAME OXFORDSHIRE OX9 3RT, ENGLAND TEL: +44 (0) 1844 265000 FAX: +44 (0) 1844 265156

E.mail: [email protected] Web-site www.angusfire.co.ukor visit our

www.force-monitor.com

The new UNIFIRE FORCE50 and FORCE80. Simply the best.

• Stainless 316 • Full 360° rotation, +/- 90° elevation • Integrated wormgear drive• Integrated nozzle mechanics • Progressive optical joystick• Proportional nozzle control • Record-and-play sequence• Selectable parking position • Low weight • Compact size• CANBUS communication • Multiple joysticks .... and much more

UNIFIRE AB, SWEDENTel: +46 303 248400WWW.UNIFIRE.COM

FORCE 50

FORCE 80

P. 21-42 11/17/06 4:37 PM Page 38

Page 41: IFF Issue 08

One of the dangers is attemptingto handle these fires while walk-ing the wind girder. This is a

major safety item. The girder is approx-imately 3 feet in width, with a spill bar-rier that is about 6-8 inches high.While this is sometime used as a plat-form for maintenance as well as forseal fire combat, it acts as a platformfor accidents to happen. The primepurpose of the wind girder is to main-tain the walls in a good firm uprightposition, and keep them from damag-ing the seal and roof through move-ment caused by winds. It is veryobvious this is not a good way to com-bat these fires simply because the safe-ty factor is minimal. This is especiallytrue in inclement weather. Snow, ice,rain all make working from this plat-form a very unsafe condition. IF this isthe method chosen, the firefighter(s)should be tied off to prevent themfrom falling to the ground. If the windgirder had a hand rail around the cir-cumference, then it would offer a goodsafe working platform. I have heard ofbut not seen, a device consisting of a

rolling wheel that is attached to the rimof the vessel that will roll along withthe firefighter and prevent the fall that,if not fatal, will certainly cause seriousharm to the body. It is recommendedother methods be considered. Thesewill be discussed later.

Most of these fires occur duringlightning and or heavy rain storms.Depending on the amount of rain, theability of the roof drains to handle thedrainage, will dictate the amount ofwater on the roof. This water, if the

volume is heavy creates a problemwhen water created by the firefightingefforts may become deep enough tosink the roof. Obviously if firefightersare on the platform or the wind girder,and the roof sinks, they are in seriousdanger and will very likely be seriouslyburned, if not fatally, and will be blownto the ground by the sudden flash of afull surface fire. There is little chance ofa safe exit if this occurs.

The biggest danger created in sealfire combat is a low roof which maycreate a vapor space between the roofand the product level. When firefightersarrive on a seal fire scene, and the burnline is low, it is imperative they ascer-tain the product level in conjunctionwith the roof. IF the possibility of avapor space exists, NO ONE should beallowed to climb the stairs to the topof the tank until it is certain there is novapor space, or a possibility of a vapor

39www.iffmag.comINTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Industrial

MUCH HAS BEEN WRITTEN about fires that occur in storage tanks containingHydrocarbons. Seal fires, while they are probably the easiest to handle –where hydrocarbons and tank fires are concerned – there is still some dangerinvolved. Fires of this type will only occur with floating roofs, or those thatmove up and down with the product and have no vapor space to contendwith. This will be discussed later. This would also include fires that involvecrude oil products. It should also be mentioned here that there is no concern ofa boilover with seal fire situations.

If a vapor space exists it should befirm in the minds of every oneinvolved any introduction of airinto the vapor space may createthe correct vapor air mixture tocause an explosion to occur underthe roof.

Angus Colossus large-capacity aspirating monitor in action on hydrocarbon storage tank fire in Middle East

Seal FiresBy Dave Cochran

Seal Fires

P. 21-42 27/10/06 8:39 am Page 39

Page 42: IFF Issue 08

space occurring during fire combat. If a vapor space exists itshould be firm in the minds of every one involved any intro-duction of air into the vapor space may create the correctvapor air mixture to cause an explosion to occur under theroof. Obviously the roof may blow clear of the tank, causinganother serious situation to occur. This could create anotherfire situation, as well as danger to anyone in the vicinity ofthe fire scene. Once the roof is floated, then a plan of actioncan be made and extinguishment efforts can begin. If there issufficient water available, the walls of the tank should becooled – as long as it can be cooled completely around thecircumference of tank. This prevents sagging of the walls andwill maintain their integrity.

When finished foam is applied to a fire, air is also beingapplied. Depending on the amount of expansion of the foamwill dictate the amount of air being applied. The same goeswith the application of water some air is being applied aswell. IF foam is being applied with a low roof to the sealarea, air is being inducted into the vapor space, and a possi-ble explosive condition may be created. Finished foam shouldnever be applied when this condition exists – ESPECIALLYFROM THE TOP OF THE STAIRS OR WIND GIRDER.

IF it is not possible to apply foam from the ground, thenother methods which are discussed below should be utilized.Application of finished foam from the ground should neverbe attempted if the roof is floating simply because the roofmay sink thus creating a full surface fire situation. One youdon’t want to occur. In addition, it is not recommended touse aerial devices to combat seal fires especially if the roof isfloating because it is possible to sink the roof if too muchwater is applied.

There is a device available today that can be attached tothe rim of storage tanks which also contains a monitor towhich a nozzle of various flows can be attached. This worksvery well and can be utilized if no vapor space exists. A pre-caution is necessary in that water can be shot onto the roof ifcare is not exercised, which could, depending on the waterdepth already on the roof, create a problem with sinking ofthe roof.

Foam application devices can be fabricated on site byfitting 11⁄2� or 2� inch pipe together into a partial “U” shapewith a slight bend on the short side-which should be inserted

4040 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Indu

stria

l

IT’S ABOUT TIMEIT’S ABOUT TIME

It's ALL about time. The 613GC from ICS speeds

through concrete up to 30 cm thick with ease. Cut

Deep. Cut Fast. Cut from one side. Get through

fast with the saw that makes cuts no circular cut-off

saw can make.

For more information on ICS products, visit us on the

Web at: www.icsbestway.com

© 2005 ICS, Blount Inc. Specifications subject to change without notice. Allrights reserved. ICS is a registered trademark of ICS, Blount Inc. The bestway to cut concrete is a trademark of ICS.

Application of finishedfoam from the groundshould never beattempted if the roof isfloating simply becausethe roof may sink thuscreating a full surface fire situation.

P. 21-42 27/10/06 8:40 am Page 40

Page 43: IFF Issue 08

over the top of the tank. The slightbend should bring the foam dischargeagainst the wall of the tank for agentle application. Several holes shouldbe drilled near the end of the short sideto cause for some expansion of the fin-ished foam. On the long side, or theside on which the hose line is to beattached, an hose connection should beattached for application of the waterfoam solution. These devices are calledwands and must be placed onto thetank with cherry pickers, cranes, laddertowers, ladder trucks or other suchdevices that can reach the rim of thetank. When fabricating the device,make certain they will reach over thewidth of the wind girder, and, drill ahole in the top of the lateral run ofpipe-especially if being used on inter-nal floating roof tanks. If foam towersare available from nearby refinery orchemical plants, they can be utilized tomake extinguishment. These are verygood devices for such fire situations,but are very cumbersome and requiresome expertise to assemble and elevate.Elevation of the device is donehydraulically by water being appliedthrough the hydraulic chamber, andguy wires (3) are required to maintain agood vertical raise. Unfortunately thesedevices are no longer available in themarket place.

If the involved tanks is down formaintenance, is already blinded off, butstill closed, it should be taken understrong consideration to pull the prod-uct blind – which should be installedbetween the flange and the tank – aslong as it can be done safely – to initi-ate filling of product for floatation ofthe roof. This will take some time, butwill be the best method for firefightersto make a successful and safe extin-guishment. Safety is paramount regard-less of the situation. Once product isintroduced, it should be done slowly atfirst until the product is well above theinlet of the pipe. A very definiteincrease in the fire will also be noticedbecause of the increase in vaporizationof the product.

While this is being accomplished thefire teams will have plenty of time toprepare for a safe and successful extin-guishment. The team that is to makethe extinguishment should have ameeting so that all are fully aware of

the events that are to take place, allknow who is to do what, where andwhen. This includes pump operators,and anyone else that may be involved.

Foam should be proportioned fromthe ground as opposed to from theplatform. It should also be rememberedthe height of the vessel will dictatehow the foam is to be proportioned.Back pressure to the eductor will shut everything down. If around thepump devices or foam pumpers areavailable they should be utilized. A 150 foot diameter storage tank seal fire will, depending on the foam dam, have a square footage ofapproximately 930 feet. The NFPA 11

minimum application density is .3gallons per foot which equates to asolution rate of 279 gpm. A minimumof 20 minutes is required to make asuccessful extinguishment.

41www.iffmag.comINTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Industrial

Thom

as G

aulk

e –

FIR

E Fo

to

Ein umfassendes Programm leistungsstarker und umweltver-träglicher Schaumlöschmittel für den Brandschutzexperten, z.B:

alkoholbeständige MOUSSOL-APS LVUniversalschaummittel MOUSSOL-APS 3 %

MOUSSOL-APS f-15

wasserfilmbildende STHAMEX-AFFF 1 %, 3 %, 6 %Schaummittel

Wir haben immer etwasgegen Feuer…

every situation- Always prepared forFire

A DIN EN ISO

CertifiedCompany

Liebigstraße 5 · D-22113 HamburgTelefon +49 (0) 40-73 61 68-0Telefax +49 (0) 40-73 61 68-60E-Mail: [email protected] · www.sthamer.com

Niederlassung PirnaKönigsteiner Straße 5 · D-01796Telefon +49 (0) 35 01-46 44 84 Telefax +49 (0) 35 01-46 44 85

Dr.STHAMER HHAMBURGMBURGLiebigstraße 5 · D-22113 HamburgTel: +49 (0)40-73 61 68-0Fax: +49 (0)40-73 61 68-60Email: [email protected]

Ask for more information

Branch Office: PirnaKönigsteiner Strasse 5 · D-01796 PirnaTel: +49 (0)35 01-46 44 84 +52 40 06Fax: +49 (0)35 01-46 44 85

We offer a complete range of highperformance and environmentally friendlyfoam liquids to the fire professional e.g.Alcohol resistant MOUSSOL – APS LVUniversal MOUSSOL – APS 3%AFFF foam liquids MOUSSOL – APS f-15Aqueous film forming

foam liquids STHAMEX – AFFF 1%, 3%, 6%Synthetic foam liquids STHAMEX f-6, f-15, f-20, f-25Protein foam liquids FOAMOUSSE 3%, 6%Fluor Protein foam

liquid FLUOR FOAMOUSSE 3%, 6%Training foams

The minimum concentrate is 180gallons, and minimum water forextinguishment is 5,420 gallons at271 gpm. This does not includecooling water, foam concentrate orwater that may be required for postfire security. If you are using a 1%concentrate the minimum flow is2.79 gpm or a minimum of 55.8 gallons.

P. 21-42 27/10/06 8:40 am Page 41

Page 44: IFF Issue 08

Lenzing FR® is a specialty viscosefiber. The abbreviation FR stands forflame resistant. Lenzing FR® is a

natural fiber derived from wood. It offersprotection from heat and flame in avariety of different applications. Uniquethermal insulation properties combinedwith permanent flame resistance makeLenzing FR® a “Heat Protection Fiber”. Itoffers protection from all kinds of heatand its functional properties help toprevent heat stress and heat stroke.

Lenzing FR® keeps the body dry andcool. Heat stress and heat stroke can beavoided.

Permanent protection from heatLenzing FR® offers protection from allkinds of heat: fire, radiant heat,electric arcs, molten metals andflash fires. The most importantgoal of protective clothing is toprevent the skin from burns.After all, the skin is the body’slargest and most sensitive organ.From a technical point of view,Lenzing FR® is a work of art.The fiber, which is made of anatural raw material, has a flameretardant substance incorporatedthroughout the cross section ofthe fiber. As well as beingecofriendly, the latter alsoensures permanent protection.The protective substance cannot beremoved by either washing or abrasion.Flame resistant once, flame resistantforever. . .

Improved performance andefficiency!Lenzing FR® does not only offer you safe-ty. It offers you functionality. The perfor-mance and efficiency of the wearerimproves significantly when the comfortof the protective garment is enhanced.Moisture absorption along with breatha-bility and skin friendliness all have to be agiven as all are vital components in flameresistant protective clothing. These prop-erties make it possible for Lenzing FR® tosignificantly reduce the risk of heat stressand heat stroke. People in professionsinvolving a high level of risk from burnsneed to wear special protective clothing.Apart from direct fire, heat, in its differentforms, represents a significant danger.Skin is our largest organ and its only formof protection is our clothing. The out-come could be fatal if as little as 15% of

the human skin is destroyed. Lenzing FR®,with its incorporated flame retardantagent, protects the skin from heat like noother flame resistant High PerformanceFiber. Lenzing FR® offers anyone in theemergency services excellent protectionfrom 2nd and 3rd degree burns. And itgoes one step further since its physiologi-cal properties reduce the risk of heat stressand heat stroke and improves the perfor-mance and comfort of 100% aramid gar-ments. The TPP values of Lenzing FR® arefirst rate and it considerably enhances theperformance of aramid fibers. The breakopen behavior of protective clothing isimproved following exposure to flamesand heat. The skin continues to beprotected.

A comparison gives you thereassurance you needThermal insulation barriers are used infiremen’s jackets. One common type iscomprised of three layers of spunlacefleece (each layer being 80 g/m2). Thefollowing pictures show a typical resultafter performing the “TPP”-Test, EN ISO9151. This test demonstrates that thethermal insulation function is enhancedwith a blend of Lenzing FR® and m-aramid fibers.

For special clothing which resists radi-ant heat, Lenzing FR® fabrics are used inan aluminized form. These offer protec-tion from extreme radiant heat. They alsoimprove the wear comfort and preventheat stress and heat stroke.

What causes heat stress andheat stroke?Mental and physical exertion increasesthe body’s core temperature. Increasedblood circulation and the production ofperspiration cool the body down. This

cooling down process can be disrupteddue to improper heat and moisturemanagement leading to problems withconcentration, fatigue, muscle cramps,difficulties in breathing and ultimatelyheat stroke. The excellent moisture man-agement and breathability of LenzingFR® lead to a reduction in the risk fromthis mortal danger.

In blends with other fibers, LenzingFR® is a cost effective way of improvingthe comfort and performance of protec-tive clothing. In addition it optimizes thedye affinity, fastness to light and is natu-rally anti-static. As a result, Lenzing FR®based fabrics are the real “high perform-ers” among the flame resistant fabrics. Allover the world, Lenzing FR® based fabricshave achieved the optimum balance ofproperties in protective apparel.

Underwear and protective hoods madeof Lenzing FR® are extremely soft and

pleasant to wear. Even in a dan-ger zone, Lenzing FR® providesthe optimum climate for thebody. Its moisture managementand skin friendly properties allmean that the concentration andperformance of the workers isenhanced.

The perfect blend –Lenzing FR® has thepower to improveFunctionality depends on theproperties of different fibers.Protective clothing made withblends of Lenzing FR® are more

comfortable than those using 100%aramid fibers. Aramids, which are purelysynthetic fibers, only absorb a smallamount of moisture and the wearer startsto perspire very quickly. In contrast,Lenzing FR® is a natural, flame resistantfiber with excellent moisture absorptionand breathability properties.

Protective clothing made with blendsof Lenzing FR® and aramid fibers satisfiesall the requirements of the wearer interms of safety and durability, as well ascomfort. Tests conducted by theHohenstein Institute of Research inGermany confirm that blends withLenzing FR® considerably improve thecomfort and protection properties.

4242 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Indu

stria

l P R O D U C T P R O F I L E

For more information contact:

Lenzing AGAlexander Gstettner

Tel: +43 76727013290Fax: +43 76729183290

THE HEAT PROTECTION FIBERMore comfort less heat stress

WITHOUTLENZING FR®

WITH LENZING FR®

LENZING FR®

keeps the bodydry and cool.Heat stress andheat stroke canbe avoided.

P. 21-42 27/10/06 8:40 am Page 42

Page 45: IFF Issue 08

Fire and Rescue Training

P. 43-63 27/10/06 8:42 am Page 43

Page 46: IFF Issue 08

TRAINING PHILOSOPHY

The training concept of the Academy isbased on 2 key pillars. Firstly, trainingat the academy shall be realistic andtraining conditions must approximatethose to be encountered during actualoperations. This is because operatingenvironments of emergency respondersare inherently dangerous. For traineesto gain confidence and maximumcompetencies, their physical and mentallimits will be stretched.

Safety is of utmost importance in alltraining sessions for this has an impacton trainees which extends beyond theconfines of the Academy. Properlyinculcated during training, the atten-tion paid to safety becomes secondnature to the trainees, long after theygraduate from the Academy.

TRAINING FACILITIES

Training facilities at the academyincludes a wide range of purpose-builtspecialist simulators, some of which arehighlighted in this article. These simu-lators optimize state-of-the-art tech-nologies to simulate realistic disasterconditions, including fires, smoke andheat, as well as systems for total con-trol and monitoring of trainees’ safety.

4444 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Fire

and

Res

cue

Trai

ning

The Civil Defence Academy (CDA)

Firefighters undergoing training at Furnace

Civil Defence AcadCivil Defen

THE CIVIL DEFENCE ACADEMY (CDA) of the Singapore Civil Defence Force(SCDF) offers specialized training in the area of emergency responseincluding firefighting, rescue, emergency ambulance services and incidentmanagement.

Opened in 1999, the 11 hectare academy conducts courses for both local and overseas participants. It has strategic alliances with internationalorganizations in the business of disaster assistance and coordination. In fact,the academy has trained participants from over 50 countries over the years.

Civil Defence AcadCivil Defen

P. 43-63 27/10/06 8:43 am Page 44

Page 47: IFF Issue 08

THE FURNACE (FIRE AND RESCUE TRAINING TOWER)

Possibly the “hottest” prop-erty in town, the 10-storey“Furnace” is designed andbuilt to burn and withstandfires up to 1,000 degreesCelsius! Towering at aheight of 38m at the FieldTraining Area, the Furnaceoffers a range of simulated fire envi-ronments at the push of a button. Fireand rescue trainees get to fight notonly “residential apartment fires”, butalso a host of many others includingblazes in a hotel room, HazMat storageroom, basement carpark and even aflash-over fire at a Karaoke Lounge.

A centralized control system lets theinstructors gain full control of the fires,heat and smoke conditions in thebuilding. Trainees are monitored forsafety, via a network of closed-circuittelevisions and thermal image cameras.

OIL STORAGE TANK FIRES

Measuring 7m in diameter and 6m inheight, with controllable fire extent,the oil storage tank simulator allowstrainees the opportunity to come faceto face with life-like oil refinery fires.Trainees need to apply the correctextinguishing medium and equipment

to successfully extinguish the fire. This massive simulator also requires

trainee-firefighters to be aware oflogistical requirements for such opera-tions, including the amount of foamrequired and the proper placement ofmonitors to enable effective extin-guishment of the fire.

45www.iffmag.comINTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Fire and Rescue Training

The Furnace, Field Training Area

ademy, Singapore ence Force

Fire and rescuetrainees get to fightnot only “residentialapartment fires”,but also a host ofmany othersincluding blazes ina hotel room,HazMat storageroom, basementcarpark and even aflash-over fire at aKaraoke Lounge.

ademy, Singapore ence Force

Fighting simulated fire in Karaoke Room, Furnace

P. 43-63 27/10/06 8:43 am Page 45

Page 48: IFF Issue 08

LPG BULLET TANK

The LPG Bullet Tank Simulator permitstrainees to battle an LPG tankimpinged by fire. Trainees at this sta-tion must react fast to prevent a Boil-ing Liquid Expanding Vapour Explosionor (BLEVE) from occurring.

This simulator allows trainees tolearn correct actions to take whenencountering LPG incidents. It alsodevelops confidence and teamwork asthey negotiate movement towards thetank to shut off the valve.

CHEMICAL PLANT SIMULATOR

This 3-storey chemical plant trainsHazMat personnel and firefighters inHazMat mitigation operations. At the1st and 2nd storey, trainees would be

required to contain HazMat leakages,including transferring of HazMat fluids,plugging and sealing operations.

At the 3rd storey, trainees will get tofight a “spill” fire involving overturneddrums with flammable solvents and aBLEVE simulator cage. One of the LPGgas cylinders is capable of firing a 3m-high vertical fire.

SHIP FIRE SIMULATOR

CDA trains about 3000 participantsyearly in ship fire fighting. During theBasic Fire Fighting Course, trainees aretaught the use of Breathing Apparatusand Compartment Fire Fighting usingfire extinguishers and hoses. In theAdvanced Course, they practise vertical

rescue techniques, and undergoscenario exercises involving both fireand rescue operations.

The two-storey 110 sq m ship simu-lator is constructed mainly of metalwith five compartments, where differ-ent types of fires can be fired up,including flammable liquid leak fires.

The mess deck, galley, switch roomand store room are located at the mid-dle deck, while the engine room at thelowest deck. All compartments areaccessed by means of water-tight doorsand hatches. The doors and hatchescome in “dogs” and “wheel-type” sothat trainees understand the differenttypes of mechanism in opening thedoors. Like a ship, access between com-partments for trainees is through tightvertical ladders and steep staircases.

The size and intensity of fires can becontrolled by instructors at the Controlroom. All compartments can be smoke-logged and flooded to knee-high levelto inject challenge. The ship simulatoris also equipped with safety features.Thermal imaging cameras, gas detec-tors, temperature probes and emer-gency pull cords are available for themonitoring of trainees.

INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIP

The Academy has built a wide networkof strategic alliances with numerousinstitutions and organizations, bothlocally and overseas. To furtherenhance emergency service operations,

4646 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Fire

and

Res

cue

Trai

ning

Firefighters undergoing training at Furnace

The two-storey110 sq m shipsimulator isconstructed mainlyof metal with fivecompartments,where differenttypes of fires canbe fired up,includingflammable liquidleak fires.

P. 43-63 27/10/06 8:44 am Page 46

Page 49: IFF Issue 08

the Academy collaborates actively withlocal tertiary institutions on researchprojects.

CDA has also entered into Memoran-dum of Understandings (MOUs) withforeign universities to conduct MastersProgramme, such as the Masters in FireSafety Engineering with the Universityof Western Sydney, and Masters ofScience Programme for Risks, Crisis and Disaster Management with theUniversity of Leicester.

In addition, the Academy also collab-orates with International Organizations

such as the United Nation’s Interna-tional Search and Rescue AdvisoryGroup (INSARAG), the Asian DisasterReduction Centre and the Japan Inter-national Cooperation Agency on mat-ters pertaining to international rescueand training. The Academy has beenconducting the International Searchand Rescue course, International Haz-mat course and the International FireFighting course since 1999.

CONCLUSION

The Civil Defence Academy (CDA) ofthe Singapore Civil Defence Force(SCDF) has grown from strength tostrength since its opening. Its commit-ment and dedication has made itpossible for it to meet the challenges of conducting effective training for the ever-growing volume of local andoverseas trainees.

The Academy conducted more than600 courses in the last work year. Thenumber of internal trainees rose fromnearly 14,000 in 1999 to more than21,000 in 2004. The number of exter-nal trainees rose even more dramatical-ly – from about 2000 in 1999 to morethan 9000 in 2004.

The CDA was awarded the ISO9001:2000 certification by the Interna-tional Organisation of Standardization(ISO) in Mar 2004.

The SCDF recently received the pres-tigious Singapore Quality Award (SQA).The business excellence model under-pinning the SQA is based on universallyaccepted standards found in the USMalcolm Baldrige National QualityAward, the European Quality Awardand the Australian Business ExcellenceAward.

47www.iffmag.comINTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Fire and Rescue Training

More information about the CDAor SCDF can be found onhttp://www.scdf.gov.sg/

Chemical Plant Simulator

The Civil Defence Academy (CDA)

The Academy hasbeen conductingthe InternationalSearch and Rescuecourse,InternationalHazmat courseand theInternational FireFighting coursesince 1999.

P. 43-63 27/10/06 8:44 am Page 47

Page 50: IFF Issue 08

FDIC kicks off with its signatureprogram, H.O.T. (Hands-on Training)sessions. Attendees experience, in

an interactive training environment,some of the most intense training coursesthat focus on a range of topics fromvehicle extrication to collapse rescue.Working through challenging situationsin real-life settings, H.O.T. attendeesexperience first-hand the dangers they’llface in their jobs and learn the best wayto prepare and safely work in such con-ditions. Led by leading industry expertsin the United States, Hands-on Trainingsessions give participants advancedknowledge and skills that can easily bebrought back to their firehouses to trainother members of their departments.

From the H.O.T. training grounds,participants take their hands-on experi-ence and apply it in a classroom setting.FDIC boasts a comprehensive conferencefeaturing more than 120 powerful andpertinent classroom sessions that covernew developments in training, currentevents in the fire industry, managementand legal issues. Taught by the firetraining industry’s top instructors,

classroom sessions provide attendees theinformation they need to do their jobwell and safely.

“FDIC addresses the concerns andtraining needs of first responders world-wide – with seminars that traditionallycover such topics of general interest asresponse to terrorism, protecting indus-trial facilities, search and rescue, struc-tural collapse rescue, low-cost training,becoming a better instructor, lessonslearned from major incidents, responseto natural disasters, rescuing our own,and hazardous materials, to name a

few,” said FDIC Conference DirectorDiane Feldman.

FDIC’s state-of-the-art exhibit hallallows people to see, up-close and per-sonal, the latest technology, productsand services designed for the fire andEMS industries. With more than 800exhibitors consisting of top-notch manu-facturers and suppliers, FDIC attendeescan see what is new in the industry andhow those products can help theirdepartments. In addition, exhibitors andattendees also have many opportunitiesto network during exhibit hall hours andspecial events.

While training and education are thefoundation of FDIC, another well-known aspect of the event is the tradi-tion of brotherhood that attendeesexperience. “Stand alongside fellow fire-fighters from all over the world who arebrought together at FDIC by a commonbond—their desire to save lives, protectproperty, and go home safely at the endof the work shift,” said Feldman.

FDIC is designed for a broad-range ofmembers of the fire and EMS industry.Career and volunteer firefighters, fireChiefs, administrative Chiefs, line fireChiefs, training officers, company offi-cers, fire instructors, EMTs, paramedics,apparatus and equipment specialists,technical rescue and Haz Mat specialistsand even fire academy and fire sciencestudents will find this elite trainingprogram a must-experience event.

Sponsors include E-One, GlobeManufacturing, Kidde Fire Fighting,Rosenbauer, American LaFrance, MSA,Class 1/Hale, Super Vac, Drager Safety,Spartan, Holmatro, Bright Star, DuPont,Pierce, HAIX, Paul Conway Shields,Federal Signal, Fire.com, Darley, Ferrara,Hurst and Whelen. FDIC is hosted by theIndianapolis Fire Department and co-sponsored by the FAMA, FDSOA, FEMSAand Indianapolis Fire Fighters IAFFLocal 416.

4848 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Fire

and

Res

cue

Trai

ning

FIRE DEPARTMENT INSTRUCTORS’ CONFERENCEIndianapolis, Indiana, USA April 24–29

Registration opens mid-December.Attendees may find additionalevent information and registeronline at www.FDIC.com. Earlybird discounts rates are availablethrough March 13, 2006. Forquestions regarding the event,please call +1-888-299-8016.

S H O W U P D A T E

THE TIME-HONORED TRADITIONS of the Fire Department Instructors Conference(FDIC) are once again coming to Indianapolis, Indiana, USA April 24–29, 2006.Hands-on training, education, the latest in technology and products, andnetworking opportunities are just some of the exciting aspects of FDIC.

P. 43-63 27/10/06 8:45 am Page 48

Page 51: IFF Issue 08

RAE Systems w/p 27/10/06 8:53 am Page 1

Page 52: IFF Issue 08

EXHIBITION & CONFERENCEFIRE ASIA 2006 is the leading three-day event in Asia for fire prevention,protection and safety. Bringing togetherover 1,600 fire and emergency serviceprofessionals from around the world,FIRE ASIA 2006 combines a high

profile Exhibition and cutting edgeConference programme effectively pro-viding an international one-stop-shopfor everyone involved in the firefightingand fire prevention industries.

Themed ‘Best Practices in LifeSafety’ the Conference will focus onlessons learned from the recent naturaldisasters and atrocious terrorist attacks.Participants in the Conference will beexposed to new concepts and ideas ontopics surrounding disaster manage-ment, preparedness for terrorist attack,public health emergency planning anddisease surveillance.

9th WORLD FIREFIGHTERS GAMESThe World Firefighters Games, sched-uled from 18–25 February, is anadditional exciting event associatedwith FIRE ASIA 2006 with the openingceremony taking place immediatelyafter FIRE ASIA 2006. This prestigiousevent attracts firefighters and seniorpersonnel from around the globe toHong Kong, providing the ultimatenetworking opportunity.

INDUSTRY EXPERTISEThe organiser of FIRE ASIA 2006, dmgworld media (uk) ltd, has been servingthe fire industry since 1908 and is alsothe publisher of the leading industrypublication, FIRE magazine – the voiceof firefighting and fire prevention.

BE A PART OF FIRE ASIA 2006FIRE ASIA 2006 will shoswcase thelatest in technology, innovation andadvancement in front-line firefightingand prevention equipment and tech-niques. A meeting point for buyers andspecifiers with key local and leadinginternational suppliers, unlock yourpotential in this fast growing Asianmarket.

FIRE ASIA 2006 enjoys the fullsupport of:

5050 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Fire

and

Res

cue

Trai

ning S H O W U P D A T E

Don’t delay, contact us now toexhibit or obtain your FREE

visitor tickets.

Europe & North AmericaRon Dullage/Michael Jacobs

[email protected]: +44 (0)1737 855 451/435

AsiaChristine Guan

[email protected]: +86 10 6505 6243/44/45

Hong Kong Conventionand Exhibition Centre15th–17th February 2006

LOCATED IN THE HEART of Hong Kong, FIRE ASIA 2006 is yourgateway to an expanding key growth market.If you are part of the fire industry servicing the community – either inprevention, safety, or search and rescue – you should be taking part inthe FIRE ASIA 2006 Exhibition and Conference.

Conference programmehighlights include:

‘London Bomb Attack in July 2005’by Mr Ken Knight, Commission,London Fire & Rescue Authority

‘Trauma Diversion in a ModernCity’ by Prof. Tim Rainer, Director,Accident & Emergency MedicineAcademic Unit, The ChineseUniversity of Hong Kong

‘Study of Crowd Movement’ by Dr.Siu-ming LO, Associate Head &Associate Prof., Department ofBuilding and Construction, CityUniversity of Hong Kong

‘Is it time to move to the next levelof Fire Protection?’ by Mr. WilliamA. Stewart, Fire Chief, Toronto FireServices, Canada

Full details of the Conference can beobtained from www.fireasia2006.hk

P. 43-63 11/17/06 4:14 PM Page 50

Page 53: IFF Issue 08

Training in preparation for a CBRN(Chemical, Biological, Radiologi-cal, Nulcear) related incident

presents its own problems. The detectionequipment used tends to be specialised,and invariably only of use for suchincidents. Therein lies a conundrum, inthat the less frequently a piece of oper-ational equipment has to be used, theless familiar the users are likely to bewith its correct operation. The natureof incident at which such equipment islikely to be used is such that there is noroom for “on the job training” so tospeak. A further consideration is theincreased cost of ownership of realdetectors as a result of any damagethat may have occurred during training,not to mention the potential lack ofoperational availability.

The skills associated with usingdetection equipment extend beyondbasic usage, in that correct search pro-cedure must be practised, to ensureeven the smallest trace of substance isdetected, not least for forensic/evidential reasons. We then have com-munication of the detection readingsthrough the command chain, and thesubsequent decisions made.

A simulation concept developed

initially for military chemical warfaretraining has been adapted over the pastyears to satisfy the needs of the civil“Blue Light” community. In particular,a version has been developed to simu-late the “Police E-CAM” developed bySmiths Detection in conjunction withthe tri service user group at the UnitedKingdom Police CBRN training centre,Winterbourne Gunner.

The technology uses a safe environ-mentally friendly method to simulatenot just chemical warfare agents, butalso toxic industrial compounds andgases, facilitating simulators for toxic

gas and depleted oxygen monitors asused in confined space entry. Becausethe simulation technology is electronic,not only is it safe and environmentallyfriendly, it can be used in virtually anyenvironment, including a potentialtarget area be that indoor or outdoor.

An ultrasound source is used to sim-ulate chemical vapours. This source canbe programmed to represent differentsubstances such as chemical warfareagents, toxic industrial compounds,explosive atmosphere, depleted oxygenor specifically substances that cansimulate false positives (false readings)on detection equipment.

The source can be used outdoors orindoors, and simulates vapours leakingthrough doorframes, open windows

51www.iffmag.comINTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Fire and Rescue Training

AS AWFUL AS THE bomb attacks in London on 7th July were, what theydemonstrated by virtue of the superb response of the emergency services wasthe value of planning and training.

CBRNtraining – A PracticalApproach By Steven Pike of

Argon Electronics

A further consideration is theincreased cost of ownership of realdetectors as a result of anydamage that may have occurredduring training, not to mentionthe potential lack of operationalavailability.

CBRNtraining – A PracticalApproach

P. 43-63 27/10/06 8:54 am Page 51

Page 54: IFF Issue 08

and packages in an extremely realisticmanner. A variable output powerenables instructors to set up theirscenario precisely as they wish to. Youcan for example hide the source within

a vehicle such that the simulatordetects a reading close to the seal ofthe luggage storage compartment. Ifyou place the source under a car seatand leave the window slightly open you

will detect simulated vapour as youapproach the open window. The stablenature of the source means thescenario will not change unless theinstructor chooses, avoiding wastedtraining time due to simulants havingdispersed or training grounds havingbecome saturated.

Electromagnetic packs representingdifferent substance types can be hiddenwithin the protective clothing ofoperatives, or even within footwear tosimulate contamination. Using a com-bination of sources it is very easy toimplement a wide variety of CBRNexercises within a matter of minutes inalmost any environment.

A typical exercise scenario mightinvolve a building with a number ofrooms including a kitchen and anassociated garage with a vehicle inside.The instructor can place simulation asource in one of the rooms and close thedoor, the source being placed such that alow level reading is obtained as thedetector samples the gap at the base ofthe door towards the floor, or the areawhere the door meets the door frame.

A second ultrasound simulationsource could be placed in the kitcheninside a cupboard under the sink. Thisis because cleaning substances thatwould typically be stored under a sinkmay well cause false positives, and it isimportant that students appreciate thatdetectors are not perfect, and justbecause a reading is obtained it doesnot necessarily mean a chemical warfareagent has been detected. Consideration

5252 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Fire

and

Res

cue

Trai

ning

Ultrasound source used to simulatechemical vapour

Contamination of casualties etc. is easy to simulate

P. 43-63 27/10/06 8:55 am Page 52

Page 55: IFF Issue 08

should always be given to the circumstances underwhich a reading was obtained, and this element ofthe scenario helps reinforce that teaching.

Because the system can simulate multiple sub-stances in the same exercise, the instructor candeploy sources to simulate both Nerve and Blisteragent at the same time, for example. Perhaps theBlister source and one of the nerve sources caneach represent false positives, which additionalNerve sources simulate live agent. The purposebehind such a scenario is to ensure studentscontinue to seek all types of substance, and notfall into complacency as a result of the firstreading, which may have been a false positive.

A third ultrasound simulation source could per-haps be placed within the vehicle in the garage.Depending upon how high we set the simulationsource, we can arrange for the student to obtainreadings as soon as they open the garage door, oronly if they search the car carefully, perhaps tofind a back pack which appears to be leaking asuspect chemical vapour.

Electromagnetic sources can if desired be placedwithin simulated casualties clothing, and thecasualty strategically placed within the building to simulatecontamination of their clothing. In reality of course it would not be known if the casualty was innocent or not,reminding the student that they are also dealing with a crimescene.

Such a scenario tests a number of skills. Perhaps the mostimportant of these is search technique. It does not matterhow good the detection equipment is, unless the search tech-nique is thorough, what might be a small but significantreading might be missed with dramatic consequences. One ofthe most valuable lessons learned – the process takes time!This brings additional issues to the exercise – do we haveadequate air tanks, what is the working duration of theresponse team due to body core temperature/stamina issues.

As you can see, much more than correct detector use isintroduced as the result of such a practical exercise.

Perhaps one of the more difficult aspects of any form oftraining is dealing with individuals who have clearly not

53www.iffmag.comINTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Fire and Rescue Training

Any attempt to open the door will result in a rapidly increasingreading on the simulator. Pic courtesy British Transport Police

Electromagnetic sourcescan if desired be placedwithin simulatedcasualties clothing, andthe casualty strategicallyplaced within thebuilding to simulatecontamination of theirclothing.

P. 43-63 27/10/06 8:55 am Page 53

Page 56: IFF Issue 08

taken on board the classroom lesson!Whilst a practical exercise goes a longway towards confirming that either the students have listened or theinstructor was good at teaching, the

ability to independently verify has clearadvantages.

Embedded within the simulator arethe rules associated with correct use ofthe genuine detector. The students use

of the simulator is constantly comparedwith these rules (or doctrine) and anydeviation recorded for later review. Thishas a number of advantages in that itde personalises the critique of the exer-cise, and as such overcomes difficultiesexplaining mistakes if the student is ofhigher rank than the instructor or ifcultural issues arise.

The system is currently in use by anumber of UK, and international lawenforcement and response agencies forCBRN training and has been employedin numerous exercises with greatsuccess. The flexibility of the systemhas permitted training to take place ina variety of locations and in all weatherconditions. Further developmentscontinue and include implementationof the technology to simulate othertypes of hazardous material detectorsuch as the Proengin AP2C, BrukerRaid, Environics Chem Pro 100, SAIC S-Cad and Inficon Hapsite.

5454 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Fire

and

Res

cue

Trai

ning

Each bar represents a student error – or learning opportunity!

Steven Pike is the founder of UKbased Argon Electronics and holdsa number of patents relating to thesimulation of hazardous material.

P. 43-63 27/10/06 8:56 am Page 54

Page 57: IFF Issue 08

The original PANTHER was introducedin 1991 and its design form has beenemulated all over the world.

Now in 2005, the design and technolo-gy of the PANTHER 8x8 and 6x6 serieshave been updated to give you “state-of-the-art design and technology”. We placedspecial emphasis on ergonomics, passengersafety, modern materials, powerful firefighting technology, and EURO 3 compli-ant drive units.

CAB Safety The construction with FEM calculationscomplies with the ECE R 29 crash teststandard (frontal pendulum impact testand roof load of 1.5 t). The cabs for theprevious 6x6 version for ASA Australiaalso complied with this standard.360-degree view: Completely transparentdoors and a front screen that extendsupwards to give the driver and passengersperfect all round vision. All screens aremade of safety glass – with a front screenof laminated glass.Ergonomics: The steeper angle of the frontwindscreen gives the driver and passengersmore headroom, and the wide doors makethe cab feel more spacious. The roof hatchlocated behind the monitor allows for quickand safe manual release in case of emer-gency. The newly designed dashboard withcentral display/control elements locatedbetween the driver and the off-side passen-ger support genuine one-man control ofthe vehicle’s fire fighting technology, basedon the new Rosenbauer (LCS Logic ControlSystem) control concept.

The PANTHER 8x8 cab has electri-cally operated swing doors. Whenopen, the doors point forward andallow the driver to put the wheelson full lock. The electric drivesenhance actuation control.● Climate control with constant

temperature in the cab● Seats: 1 + 2 (8x8 design in

compliance with ADV)The PANTHER 6x6 cab hasrevolving doors that open through90° and gas spring supportedactuation.● Manual climate control● Seats: 1 + max. 5

SUPERSTRUCTUREFocused use of premium, corro-sion-resistant materials (aluminum,GRP formed parts and covers,polypropylene extinguishing agenttanks)

Full height GRP lockerbetween the axlesThe covers, which open vertically,protrude only slightly from thevehicle thus reducing the dangerof injury.

The PANTHER 8x8 has pneu-matically operated locker covers,which can be controlled from thecab. The engine/pump compart-ment cover can be raised hydraulically toimprove access for maintenance andservicing work.

In contrast to this, the PANTHER 6x6has manual locker covers.

Lighting and electrical systemXenon main headlight unit, rear LEDlights and CAN bus technology for chassisand fire fighting technology with thePANTHER 8x8.

FIRE FIGHTING TECHNOLOGYThe RM60E roof turret and the RM15Ebumper turret have been completelyredesigned and combined with fire pumpsfor improved performance and innovativecontrols.

The PANTHER 8x8 now has an N100low-pressure pump for performance of8000 l/min at 10 bars and a H5 highpressure pump for 300 l/min at 40 bar.

With the new, electronically controlledRVME 600 around-the-pump proportion-ing system.

The PANTHER 6x6 retains the tried andtrusted combination of the R 600 N2 withRVMA 500 for 6200 l/min at 11 bar.

CHASSISThe variety of different fire fighting, caband superstructure solutions clearlydemonstrate that the Rosenbauer con-struction team has designed a series thatsupports a wide range of variants. Andchassis are no exception.

On the one hand, there is the PAN-THER 8x8 MA-5, the new 1000PS MANrear-engine chassis with Allison automatictransmission (Type MAN SX 40.1000 8x8),and on the other the PANTHER 6x6 CA-5with its completely new RosenbauerMotors USA 705 HP rear-engine chassis,Caterpillar 4-stroke diesel, and twin discautomatic transmission.

Type Labeling Appendix: MA (stands forMAN engine), CA (for Caterpillar engine).Both chassis comply with the Euro3 direc-tive and have 24V vehicle voltage, whichROSENBAUER believes will help boost salesof the 6x6 vehicle on the European market.

55www.iffmag.comINTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Fire and Rescue TrainingP R O D U C T P R O F I L E

For more information contact:

RosenbauerInternational

AktiengesellschaftWalter Dolezal

Advertising and productinformation

Tel.: +43 (0)70 6794-402Email: [email protected]

PANTHER 8x8 MA-5

PANTHER 6x6 CA-5

ROSENBAUER INTERNATIONALAKTIENGESELLSCHAFT

ARFF vehicle PANTHER 8x8 MA-5and 6x6 CA-5

P. 43-63 27/10/06 8:56 am Page 55

Page 58: IFF Issue 08

A fully automatic, electronic breathing apparatus control system, this unique device will allow your Entry Control Officer to monitor the exact status of up to 12 individual team members simultaneously from outside the incident. This innovative system provides pneumatic data, personal alarm monitoringand evacuation signalling - eliminating the calculations and guesswork that can lose vital time in an emergency.

Draeger Safety UK Limited • Tel: 01670 352 891 • Fax: 01670 356 266 • E-mail: [email protected]

Taking fireground safety to a new dimension.

PIONEERING SOLUTIONS>>

PIONEERING SOLUTIONS>>Detection

Personal Protection

Systems Technology

Diving Equipment

Services

www.draeger-safety.com

PSS Merlin

ST-

389-

2003

Draeger w/p 27/10/06 8:57 am Page 1

Page 59: IFF Issue 08

COLLINS YOULDON

Collins Youldon is a family owned andmanaged company operating from theSouth East of England. The companyexports around 50% of hosereel pro-duction throughout Europe.

The philosophy of Collins Youldonconcentrates very much on producing ahigh quality product and providingexcellent service to all customers. How-ever, the company understands thatprice is all important, and therefore itconstantly strives to invest in toolingand production methods aimed atreducing the unit cost of the equip-ment. By continual investment thecompany is able to maintain costs, seekout product improvement and worktowards the design and development ofnew products.

By working closely with the UK firebrigades and European vehicle buildersthe company has developed several newoptions for vehicle mounted hosereels,including the HR51BE combi reel, pro-viding air rewind with an emergency

manual rewind facility which is angleddownward towards the operator (seephoto).

As an additional service, CollinsYouldon provides literature in severallanguages and is able to communicatein English, German, French and Spanishby providing in house one-to-onetraining to its specialist translationstaff.

The company is also able to offer arange of cable storage drums for quickand easy deployment of power cableand air hoses. The drums are strong,fabricated from steel which is powdercoated for a tough finish.

In the United Kingdom CollinsYouldon hosereels are fitted to 99% ofall new vehicles and are widely speci-fied in the fire industry where theirreputation for reliability and prompttechnical assistance is well known.

For more information please contactCollins YouldonTel: +44 (0) 1279 431011 Fax: +44 (0) 1279 433110

DRAEGER LIMITED

Any area can become a confined spaceunder certain conditions. For example,an open ditch or open-topped vaultbecomes a confined space if air circula-tion inside is poor and a gas that isheavier than air accumulates at thebottom. Similarly, a structure or irreg-ular shape becomes confined if pocketsof gas or vapour accumulate where aircirculation is restricted.

By providing effective training in theselection and use of gas detectionequipment, such as that carried out atDraeger Safety’s purpose built sewerand crawl galleries at Blyth, employeescan be shown how to assess, under-stand and control the hazards involved.

The seriousness of the hazard isobviously dependent upon the natureof the substance and/or the applicationconcerned. The dangers can bedramatically increased, however, if acombination of hazards exists.

Toxic gases or vapours, for instance,can poison or suffocate personnel andwork in progress, such as cleaning,welding and painting can producedangerous fumes. It is also possiblethat the toxic gases and vapours thatare created during previous work mightstill be present upon re-entry at a laterdate.

A build up of flammable gases orvapours can also burn or explode and

57www.iffmag.comINTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Fire and Rescue Training

PROCUREMENT GUIDE

HR51BE combi reel

P. 43-63 27/10/06 8:58 am Page 57

Page 60: IFF Issue 08

an atmosphere containing less than 21per cent oxygen is oxygen deficient andcan be life-threatening. It can also leadto euphoria, a “happy” state whichprevents the worker from realising thedangers in time to escape.

The most frequent causes of seriousaccidents are that people do not alwaysrecognise a confined space hazardwhen they see one. To ensure absolutesafety, employees should always assumethat hazards are present until they aresure that they are not. It is obviouslyessential that workers first test andthen continue to monitor the confinedspace before entering the area andwhilst working within it. For thisreason, the Draeger course highlightsthe need to use appropriate equipmentin each area, i.e. at the bottom of thespace and in corners and explains whyareas should be tested, cleaned andtested again. It also covers the use ofbreathing apparatus and respiratoryprotection equipment as well as generalsafety procedures.

For more information please contactRichard BeckwithDraeger LimitedUllswater CloseKitty Brewster Ind Est.BlythNorthumberland NE24 4RGTel: 01670 352891Fax: 01670 356266

DRAEGER SAFETY UK LIMITED

Reliable personal monitoring andno maintenance worries for twoyears with new Draeger Pac 3000Ideal for use by all those with a needfor regular personal monitoring, thenew Draeger Pac 3000 single gasinstrument can be used to detectcarbon monoxide, hydrogen sulphide oroxygen. Easy to use and ensuringreliable monitoring of ambient air, thisinnovative personal monitor is alsocompletely maintenance free for twoyears.

Featuring the new Draeger XXS sen-sors, which do not have to be replacedduring those two years, the Pac 3000offers extremely short electrochemicalreaction times and responds immedi-ately to any gas hazard.

Small yet robust and featuring sim-ple push-button operation as well as a

language-free, back-lit liquid crystaldisplay, the Pac 3000 also incorporatesan infra red interface to make configu-ration and calibration easy.

Equipped with vibrational, visual andtwo-tone audible alarms, the Pac 3000displays the actual hazard concen-tration as well as the alarm type. Awarning will also be issued in the eventof a malfunction, before the end of theunit’s useable life, or before the batteryis fully discharged.

For maximum reliability, the displayalso features a bump test icon thatinforms the user as and when a func-tion test is required. This can be easilycarried out with a Draeger Bump TestStation whilst the Bump Test mode canbe configured, calibrated and adjustedvia PC using Pac Vision or CC-Visionsoftware. Several instruments can alsobe configured and calibrated at thesame time with the Draeger E-Calsystem.

Protected by a tough, rubber hous-ing and meeting the requirements ofIP65, the Pac 3000 is easily fastened toworkwear by way of a secure crocodileclip.

Stockist details can be found atwww.draeger-safety.co.uk/PAC.

For more information please contact:Richard BeckwithDraeger Safety UK LimitedUllswater CloseKitty Brewster Ind Est.BlythNorthumberland NE24 4RGTel: 01670 352891Fax: 01670 356266

FIRE DEPARTMENT INSTRUCTORS CONFERENCE

The time-honored traditions of the FireDepartment Instructors Conference(FDIC) are once again coming to Indi-anapolis, Indiana, USA. Hands-on train-ing, education, the latest in technologyand products, and networking opportu-nities are just some of the excitingaspects of FDIC.

For the latest in interactive training,attendees can experience FDIC’s signa-ture programs, H.O.T. (Hands-on Train-ing) sessions. Respected industryexperts take students through intense

5858 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Fire

and

Res

cue

Trai

ning

The new Draeger Pac 3000 single gas instrument can be used to detect carbonmonoxide, hydrogen sulphide or oxygen

P. 43-63 27/10/06 8:58 am Page 58

Page 61: IFF Issue 08

training courses that focus on a rangeof topics from vehicle extrication tocollapse rescue. Working through chal-lenging situations in real-life settings,H.O.T. attendees experience first-handthe dangers they’ll face in their jobsand learn the best way to prepare andsafely work in such conditions. Theknowledge and skills they gain caneasily be brought back to firehouses to train other members of theirdepartments.

FDIC also boasts a comprehensiveconference featuring more than 120powerful and pertinent classroomsessions. Taught by the fire industry’stop instructors, classroom sessionsprovide attendees the information theyneed to do their job well and safely.

FDIC’s state-of-the-art exhibit hallallows people to see, up-close andpersonal, the latest technology, prod-ucts and services designed for the fireand EMS industries. With more than800 exhibitors consisting of top-notchmanufacturers and suppliers, FDICattendees can see what is new in theindustry and how those products canhelp their departments. In addition, theexhibit hall offers many networkingopportunities for both attendees andexhibitors.

FDIC is designed for a broad-rangeof members of the fire and EMS industry.Career and volunteer firefighters, fireChiefs, administrative Chiefs, line fireChiefs, training officers, companyofficers, fire instructors, EMTs, para-medics, apparatus and equipmentspecialists, technical rescue and HazMat specialists and even fire academyand fire science students will find this elite training program a must-experience event.

Sponsors include E-One, GlobeManufacturing, Kidde Fire Fighting,Rosenbauer, American LaFrance, MSA,Class 1/Hale, Super Vac, Drager Safety,Spartan and Whelen. FDIC is hosted bythe Indianapolis Fire Department andco-sponsored by the FAMA, FDSOA,FEMSA and Indianapolis Fire FightersIAFF Local 416.

Attendees may find additional eventinformation and register online atwww.FDIC.com.

For questions regarding the event,please call +1-888-299-8016.

COMNET – MAJOR INCIDENT AND CRISIS MANAGEMENT

SUPPORT TOOL

Fortek’s solution ComNet, a Major Inci-dent Support solution, is designed toassist Fire Services in managing majorincidents and crisis situations efficientlywhilst minimising exposure to risks andhazards. ComNet embodies major inci-dent plans, local risk information andgeneric ICS organisation structures toassist operational staff to formulateeffective response strategies. Using acombination of graphical, geographicaland textual user interfaces ComNetpresents a comprehensive view of thecurrent status of the incident and theactivities of the resources deployed tothe incident.

ComNet features many valuablecomponents that enable Fire Servicesto carry out their work efficiently.Through ComNet, action plans can beactivated, progressed and monitored.An incident narrative allows all relevantmessages to be recorded, each with amessage category flag which is used toindicate the importance, confidentiality,or interest level. A risk assessment toolis available to record identified risks,their severity and likelihood, and theassociated risk reduction actions havebeen put in place to minimise exposureto hazards. ComNet also utilises theInternet/Intranet technology to providea consistent and continuously updatedview of the incident to all authorisedusers, anywhere in the world.

ComNet is an effective support toolfor major incident and crisis manage-ment. It is a part of the Fortek’s familyof Emergency Services product portfo-lio, which includes Emergency Plan-ning, Major Incident Management andCommand, Control and Communica-tions solutions. All Fortek solutions canbe used as standalone solutions or canbe integrated to formulate a fully oper-ational system to take total control ofall operational activities from the verybeginning to the end.

Fortek Computers are renowned forits pioneering solutions and services forthe Emergency Services in the globalarena. The company is continuallyforging ahead with new concepts, solu-tions and services that offer flexibilityand will help to shape IT within theFire Services.

George Godliman, the managingdirector comments: “This is very excit-ing time for us, after 25 years in thebusiness Fortek goes from strength tostrength. Our success is our commit-ment to the market place in the UKand worldwide, listening to our cus-tomers, delivering innovative solutionsand investing into a team of highlyskilled professional designers anddevelopers. This makes Fortek a uniqueand a formidable choice”.

If you would like to have furtherinformation on Fortek’s solutions andservices please contact:Louise GodlimanTel: +44 (0)23 9251 0088 oralternatively email [email protected]

59www.iffmag.comINTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Fire and Rescue Training

P. 43-63 11/17/06 4:15 PM Page 59

Page 62: IFF Issue 08

INTRODUCING GRINDEX TURBO

Tailor made pumps for slim needsThe new submersible Tubo pumps fromGrindex are designed for drainageworks in narrow spaces. The pumpshave a central discharge, allowing themto be used in 8� and 12� tubes. Typicalapplications include drainage in filtertubes in cohesive soil and dewateringin confined spaces.

The Tubo pump from Grindex isavailable in two sizes, 8� and 12�. Tubo8 is a completely new pump, developedfor drainage works in 8� filter tubesand other narrow spaces. It has a maxi-mum flow of 14 l/sec and pressurehead of 36 m. Tubo 12 is developedfrom the well known Proline pumpsMinor, Major and Master. The pumphas a new designed top and can beused in spaces down to 12�. It candeliver a flow up to 55 l/sec and pres-sure head of 70 m. Grindex uniquebuilt-in air valve enables dry runningcapabilities without overheating. AllTubo pumps are equipped with thermoswitches in the stator windings,allowing the use of an overheatingprotection system.

We have seen an increasing demandof the Tubo pumps at constructionsites, where the ground water tableneeds to be lowered temporarily whilethe foundation work is carried out, saysGunnar Benselfelt, Marketing Managerat Grindex. By lowering the water tablelocally with a number of Tubo pumps,the concrete works can be done withlow impact on the water table sur-rounding the construction site.

The Tubo pump is also useful fordrainage in other narrow spaces, likeduring pile driving works. When oper-ating in cohesive soil, the pump can beinstalled in a filter tube that keeps thesoil from entering the pump.

To ensure a reliable operation, the

Tubo pumps are equipped with doublemechanical seals in an oil bath thatlubricates and cools the seals. Thepumps are designed for continuousoperation in demanding environmentsand can handle pH values from 5 to 8.The impellers are made of chrome-alloyed white cast iron and wear partsmade of nitrile rubber for the highestendurance against wear from soil, sand,drill cuttings and alike.

The new Tubo pumps are manufac-tured mainly from Grindex standardcomponents. Not only does this makeservicing faster and easier, it alsoreduces spare parts inventory.

For further information pleasecontact:Grindex ABGunnar BenselfeltP.O. Box 538SE-136 25 HaningeSwedenTel: +46 8 606 66 00Fax: +46 8 745 53 28Website: www.grindex.comEmail: [email protected]

HUGHES SAFETY SHOWERS

The latest addition to the Hughesrange of decontamination systems isthe CUPOLAlightweight walk-throughdecontamination shower.

The CUPOLAlightweight Mk1 is a compact, multi-purpose unitdesigned for rapid response in theevent of CBRN incidents and industrialchemical spillages. A Mk2 version ofthe unit can accommodate two stagedecontamination.

It is easily carried in its high visibilityvalise which opens out to form aprotective ground sheet. This is perma-nently attached to the base of the unitand provides protection against sharp

objects when the system is beingpositioned or when it is in use. Jointson the inflatable frame are glued andtaped, rather than welded, as this hasproved to be a more reliable method.

An air cylinder with the kit provides alow pressure supply to inflate the fourlegs and create a frame to support theremovable liner. An additional air inlet isalso available so that the shelter can beinflated using an independent cylinderor air supply. A pressure relief valveprevents over-inflation of the frame.

Showering takes place within aremovable translucent liner hung fromthe inflated frame using Velcro sleeves.Entrance and exit flaps in the liner canbe sealed to contain the oversprayduring showering. The wash-off iscollected in a sump in the base and canbe pumped out through a wasteconnection in the liner.

Support personnel can monitor thedecontamination process through win-dows on both sides of the unit andoffer assistance by using the integralgloves fitted in the liner wall.

Seven nozzles at head and chestheight ensure rapid and thoroughshowering. These can be supplementedusing a hand-held wash brush fitted toa coiled hose. To ensure stability inadverse conditions, the unit can besecured to the ground using guy linesand pegs. The shelter is intended towithstand repeated use in the mostdemanding conditions, and a repair kitis included in case a puncture occurs.

Hughes Decon shelters cover thecomplete range of applications,including models for decontaminatingemergency service personnel and high-throughput units for decontaminatingthe general public.

For more Information please contact:Hughes Safety ShowersTel: +44 (0) 161 430 6618 Fax: +44 (0) 161 430 7928

THE NEW MAGIRUS “TURNTABLE LADDER/PORTABLE FIRE ENGINE –

CONCEPT”

The combination of turntable ladderand fire pump within a single vehicleunit is a much-in-demand configura-tion, especially for export sales that, asa rule, has so far been implemented by

6060 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Fire

and

Res

cue

Trai

ning

CUPOLAlightweight Mk1 walk-throughdecontamination shower

The Tubo pumpsare designed foruse in narrowspaces and fortemporarilylowering thewater table atconstructionsites

P. 43-63 27/10/06 8:59 am Page 60

Page 63: IFF Issue 08

means of permanently installed pumps.However, these solutions involve addi-tional effort and not inconsiderablecost.

MAGIRUS has now developed aninnovative and clearly more low costsolution that, in addition, also featurestactical operational advantages such asflexibility and user friendliness. Thenew concept is based on a seriesstandard MAGIRUS FIRE portable fireengine (TS 10-1000 or 10-1500) that iscarried on a pneumatic lift permanentlymounted on the platform. For manyyears, this technology has been provenon a wide range of different fire-fighting vehicles and provides for a fastand, above all, ergonomic removal ofthe portable fire engine.

This innovative but at the same timesimple solution can be well describedby using the example of a DLK 52 CC-Sdelivered to the fire department inNanjing/China. Directly to the rear ofthe driver’s cab, the suction hoses arestored; the removal device is perma-nently connected to the platform, andthe portable fire engine can be setdown continuously on the copilot’sside.

The pump can be operated when ithas been set down as well as when it issupported on the lift. Water suctioncan be effected optionally via openwaters or, by means of a manifold, viaa fire hydrant.

The smoothness of the 4-cylinder in-line engine with 54 kW (74 hp) at 6000rev/min ensures that no vibrations aretransferred to the vehicle; the efficiencyof the pump guarantees an excellentwater delivery up to the cage monitor.

This pragmatic solution shows yetagain MAGIRUS impressive user-orientated force of innovation.

If you have any queries, pleasecontact: Alfred BidlingmaierTel: +49 731 408 2566Email: [email protected]

JAPANESE DEFLATE IN FAVOUR OF METAL FRAMES

PPS Secures Osaka Airport RDShelter OrderAn order for six rapid deploymentshelters has been placed by the KIACcompany with Professional ProtectionSystems. KIAC are the company respon-sible for providing facilities of all kindsat Japan’s airports and the six shelters,the first of a much larger order, aredestined for Osaka airport.

The shelters, all based on the designof the metal frame units, which PPShas supplied to the UK government to house its mass-decontaminationfacilities, represent a major change inJapanese thinking which until now hasbeen centred on inflatable units.

According to Mark Whitcher, PPSManaging Director, the change inthinking was based upon the longevity

and flexibility of metal frame systemsand the fact that they do not springleaks and if damaged can usually berepaired with great swiftness andrelative ease. “This plus the fact thatthey can be deployed with the samespeed as an inflatable clinched the dealI believe” says Whitcher.

Internally the spatial arrangementsof the shelter interiors allow for anumber of different uses; as commandposts, field hospitals, scene of crimeoperational centres and so on.

Japan’s emergency services anddefence forces are already familiar withPPS equipment and are amongst thecompany’s earliest export customers,buying the then revolutionary PPSinflatable decontamination shower inthe wake of the infamous Tokyo Sarinattack. “Because of this I believe theJapanese have faith in us and what wehave to offer, and this must have con-tributed significantly towards gettingthem to change from inflatable tometal frame technology and to placingthe order with us” comments Whitcher.

More information from:Plays Protection Systems Ltd.Protection HouseSherbourne DriveTilbrookMilton KeynesBucks MK 7 8APTel: 01908 272240Fax: 01908 371605Email: [email protected] www.ppsgb.com

SK FIRE LIGHT RESCUE UNIT

One of a recent batch of six unitssupplied to Hong Kong Fire Service,this Light Rescue Unit (LRU) is basedon a Mercedes Benz Vario 815 fourdoor panel van with an Allison auto-matic transmission.

The LRU van’s air-conditioned pas-senger compartment is configured tocarry a crew of six (driver plus five), withthe 4 rear crew seats fitted with quick-don BA brackets. The unit func-tions as a first response fire fighting/rescue appliance carrying a comprehen-sive range of equipment and specialisedrescue tools for this purpose, which are readily retrieved from their stowedpositions from the sides of the vehicle.

Utilising a proven Rosenbauerdesign, the walls of the panel van are

61www.iffmag.comINTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Fire and Rescue Training

PPS Rapid Deployment Shelter

P. 43-63 27/10/06 8:59 am Page 61

Page 64: IFF Issue 08

removed and replaced with a stiffeningstructure and 2 large roller shutters oneach side. An interior structure is fittedto support stowage racks and drawers.This structure also serves to increasethe load bearing of the van’s roof. Therear doors are replaced with a singlelarge roller shutter, which permitsmaximum space utilisation, and doesaway with the need to ‘fight the wind’with doors on windy days.

The pull-out draws using a dropdown lock design and the low heightstowage racks allows for easy retrievaland stowage of the equipment carried.

Stretchers are housed in the centreinternal section of the body, which isaccessed from the rear roller shutteredcompartment.

A moulded GRP roof with non-slipprofiled top decking provides securefooting for firemen. The roof carries ashort extension rescue ladder. Access tothe roof is by a hinged swing-out ladder.

A ‘FIREXPRESS’, Mobile 50 selfcontained fire fighting unit is mountedon a pull-out turntable in the rearcompartment for quick deployment,and a front mounted recovery winch isfitted to the front of the vehicle.

For more information please contact:SK Fire Tel: +65 686 23155 Fax: +65 686 20273Website: www.skfire.com

SPENCER ITALIA S.R.L.

Parma, Italy, 7th November 2005 –Spencer developed a complete line of Evacuation Chairs and systems, outlined on the new websitewww.evacuationchair.net.

EVACUATION SYSTEMS

WhyThe September 11th events changedthe world for ever but have also beenan opportunity to revise evacuationand first-aid procedures as neverbefore.

The truth is that the request forevacuation is a less probable necessityin case of a terrorist attack than in thateveryday life, like during natural disas-ters, gas leakages, chemical disasters,black-out or fire.

September 11th taught us also that,during an emergency evacuation,assistance is necessary not only for thedisabled. In many cases, assisted evacu-ation may become a necessity due tosevere disabilities, age or advancedmental and/or physical stress.

It is a reality that today logisticemergency operators recognize thevalue and the importance of productswhich render evacuations much moreefficient.

Spencer’s Solution: Skid SeriesThe most relevant technical/aestheticnovelty of this article is the adoption ofpassive caterpillar belts which effort-lessly glide downstairs, with an elevatedlevel of security.

On landing, the constructive geom-etry of the unit transfers all weight onthe main wheels to allow turning andmovement. Moreover, the Pro Skidversion is equipped with front AND reartelescopic handles which allow upstairstransport. A careful examination of thewhole chair will reveal a seat that has

been very carefully studied; aestheticallyand in its conceptually free styling.

The aggresivity has been achieved bythe mixing of technical requirements.For example the tortuous conformationof the welded frame or the obviousoriginality of the seating posture. Theprecocity of the aesthetics is underlinedby the distribution of the angles, thebackrest that can be telescopicallyinclined, the adjustable headrest andthe handles for transportation that canalso be detached from the chair itself.

Innovative design and the maximumof security possible when in use, makethe new Skid Series an absolute noveltywithin the environment of evacuationsand transport.

For more information please contact:Ms. Emanuela BrigatiSales ManagerSpencer Italia S.r.l.Tel: +39 0521 541111Fax: +39 0521 541222Email: [email protected]: www.spencer.it

TYCO UNVEILS NEW RAPID INTERVENTION FIRE TRUCKS

Tyco Fire and Security has unveiled twonew Ansul-branded Magnum RapidIntervention Vehicles – the Magnum440 and Magnum 480. The trucks areideal for airports, municipal fire depart-ments, industrial sites and militarybases, where mobile, rapid response firesuppression is essential.

Both models offer Purple-K drychemical and Ansulite AFFF foam twin-agent technology. This operated by ajoystick in the truck’s cab, allowing theagents to be used simultaneously orseparately, depending on the type offire. The Purple-K acts as a knockdownagent, while the AFFF blankets the fire,allowing valuable extra time to beadded to the rescue operation. Whencombined, the twin-agent suppressionprevents the escape of flammablevapours and provides a degree ofcooling. The Magnum 440 holds 204kilograms of Purple-K and 681 litres ofAFFF, while Magnum 480 contains 612kilograms of Purple-K and 1362 litresof AFFF. Small fires can also be extin-guished using a 30-metre dual-purposehosereel that is stored in the rear of thetrucks.

6262 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Fire

and

Res

cue

Trai

ning

SK Fire Light Rescue Unit (LRU)

P. 43-63 27/10/06 9:00 am Page 62

Page 65: IFF Issue 08

Seating a four-person crew, the 4x4trucks have a durable commercialaluminium chassis with diamond-platecatwalk surfaces. They also have anumber of new and improved features,including rubber-track tyre conversionfor extreme terrains; adjustable slide-out shelving; in-compartment lighting;four 120 amp electrical outlets; fixed-mount perimeter lights; and rear scenelighting. The new vehicles also offer arear view video system that can bemonitored from within the cab; infraredthermal imaging to aid safe navigationthrough smoky areas; roll-up compart-ment doors; front and rear tow hooks;and an NFPA compliant siren.

Andrew Shiner, Tyco’s Director ofMarketing for Europe, the Middle Eastand Africa said: “Compared with theircompetitors’ custom-made vehicles,both of the new Rapid InterventionVehicles are manufactured in a fractionof the time. They are extremely light-

weight and versatile, and so canmanoeuvre through congested or roughterrain. They will transport a team tothe fire regardless of environmentalobstacles, such as fallen debris.”

He concluded: “We are 100 percentcommitted to developing ever moreadvanced fire safety solutions. TheMagnum 440 and Magnum 480 are themost evolutionary fire trucks on themarket. Combined with our training andtechnical support they will prove them-selves the best solution every time.”

This latest addition to Tyco Fire andSecurity’s fire safety offering confirmsthe company’s status as a full solutionsprovider.

For more information on MagnumRapid Intervention Vehicles pleasecontact:Tel: +44 (0) 1493 417600Fax: +44 (0) 1493 417700Website: www.ansul.com

NEW RECHARGEABLE SAFETY TORCH FROM WOLF

Wolf Safety, the leading manufacturerand supplier of torches and portablelighting for use in explosive atmos-pheres, has launched the first in itsrange of high-tech ATEX approvedrechargeable torches.

The robust, yet compact, ergonomi-cally designed torch weighing only325g, a fraction of the weight of othercompetitive safety torches with asimilar performance, incorporates ahigh efficiency 4-watt halogen bulb,offering two levels of light output andthree to seven hours light duration.

State of battery charge is indicated

with a bar of high intensity red LEDswhich go out one by one as the batterycharge diminishes. Towards the end ofdischarge, the beam flashes off repeat-edly, warning recharging is required.

Chargers are available with ‘Quick’(2.5h) or ‘Standard’ (8h) charge rates,configured to run from vehiclevoltages, or mains with a suitabletransformer. A unique feature of thecharger design is the single handed‘snap-in; snatch-out’ torch holder,designed to give the dual function ofsecure torch retention but also quickrelease, ideal in emergency situations.

Wolf Safety’s new RechargeableSafety Torch, which is ATEX Approvedfor use in Zones 1 and 2 explosive gasand dust atmospheres, also carries e ibIIC T4 approval code, which complieswith Home Office TB1/1997 breathingapparatus for firefighters.

Low maintenance, quick componentreplacement, easy to use switching –even with gloved hands – and an IP67rating, are other significant productbenefits supporting the claim that thistorch currently represents the best inrechargeable safety torch technology.

For more information please contactthe sales office:Tel: 0114 255 1051 Fax: 0114 255 7988 Email: [email protected] Website: www.wolf-safety.co.uk

63www.iffmag.comINTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Fire and Rescue Training

Wolf Safety Lamps ATEX RechargeableSafety Torch

Tyco Magnum Rapid Intervention Vehicle

P. 43-63 11/17/06 4:15 PM Page 63

Page 66: IFF Issue 08

6464 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

Angus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Ansul Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .IFC

Bronto Skylift . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

BW Technologies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

Dafo Fomtec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Dr Sthamer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41

Draeger Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

E2V Technologies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Emergency Services Training Institute ( Texas A&M ) . .54

FDIC Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

FDIC Indianapolis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Fire Asia 2006 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Fire Science Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

GB Solo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Grace Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Haztec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Helmet Integrated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

ICS Blount . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

Iveco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Kochek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Mayday Scandanavian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Orion Safety Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

Partner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

PBI Performance Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .IBC

PPS Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

RAE Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49

Russwurm Ventilatoren . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Scott Health & Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

SK Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

Tempest Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Tyco Fire & Security ( Hygood ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

Unifire AB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Unifire Power Blowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Vema Lift . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Williams Fire & Hazard Control Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .OBC

INTERNATIONALFIRE FIGHTER

GET YOUR SUBSCRIPTION NOW!!!

IFF IS PUBLISHED 4 TIMES A YEAR – FEBRUARY, MAY, AUGUST AND

NOVEMBER

Name: –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Company/Organisation: ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Address: ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Telephone: ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Fax: ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

E-mail: ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Start Subscription from Issue: –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Subscription Rates: UK £35.00 Europe �60 Rest of World US $70.00

Back Issues: US $18.00, £10.00 or �15 each inclusive of P&P(subject to availability)

METHODS OF PAYMENT:

Website Subscription: ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Cheque: –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Visa/Mastercard No: ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Expiry Date: –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

MDM Publishing Ltd.18a, St. James Street, South Petherton, Somerset, TA13 5BW, UK

ADVERTISERS’ INDEXSUBSCRIPTIONS

I N T E R N A T I O N A L

FIRE FIGHTERI N T E R N A T I O N A L

FIRE FIGHTERReporting Worldwide to Municipal, Industrial and Fire Training Professionals

An MDM PUBLICATIONIssue 8 – November 2005

www.iffmag.com

Official International Journal

Cologne29th March–2nd April

Indianapolis24th–29th April 6th–10th May

✂ ✂

www.iffmag.com

MDM Publishing Ltd.

P. 64 27/10/06 9:01 am Page 64

Page 67: IFF Issue 08

Arm Yourself with the Best First-line of Defense You Can Get! Widely recognized as the premium

product in outer shell protection, PBI Gold blends thermal resistant PBI fibers with high-strength

aramid, resulting in the ultimate high-tech fabric for thermal protection, comfort and durability. Standing

tough against heat and flames, PBI Gold provides advanced armour protection by resisting breakopen. PBI

Gold meets or exceeds all NFPA, EN and Australian Standards, from tear strength to shrinkage, flame

resistance to colorfastness. It’s easy to maintain, retains size and shape, and keeps its color. An outer shell

made with PBI Gold is more than premium protection; it’s a valuable asset in your firefighting arsenal.

Galgenbergstrasse 2b / Im Posthof D -93053 Regensburg, Germany

T +49 (0) 941 70 54 370 // F +49 (0) 941 70 54 110 // E-mail: [email protected]

9800 Southern Pine Blvd Suite D // Charlotte, NC 28273 USA// T 704-554-3378 // F 704-554-3101

www.pbigold.com // E-mail: [email protected]

© 2005. PBI and PBI Gold in logo form are registered trademarks of PBI Performance Products, Inc. 05116

05116_IFJ_Distributor_ad r4 9/26/05 9:38 AM Page 1

Page 68: IFF Issue 08

Williams w/p 27/10/06 9:18 am Page 1