Pumping Apparatus Driver/Operator

Lesson 3 — Introduction to Apparatus Inspection and Maintenance

Skill Sheet 3-7

Perform Daily and Weekly Apparatus Inspections

Name Date

Prerequisites

None

References

NFPA 1002, 4.2.1, 4.2.2, 5.1.1

Pumping Apparatus Driver/Operator Handbook, 2nd edition, pp. 51 – 54

Introduction

Although a complete apparatus inspection is not needed on a daily (or in the case of some departments, weekly) basis, there are some things that the driver/operator should check/perform daily and weekly.

Certain preventive maintenance procedures should be regularly performed to detect pump failure or other apparatus fire suppression equipment deficiencies. Some departments require the driver/operator to perform these functions. Others may have mechanics or pump technicians perform these functions. Not all of the maintenance functions need to be conducted on a daily basis.

Criteria

Criteria are to be determined by the authority having jurisdiction. AHJ can choose point value for each skill step, and decide how many points are required to pass this skill. Each AHJ may also denote critical criteria.

Available Equipment and Materials

One firefighter

Apparatus operator’s manual

Fire service pumper, mobile water supply apparatus, or wildland apparatus to be inspected

Writing implement

Department’s daily and weekly inspection forms

Skill Steps / Points / 1st Attempt / 2nd Attempt
Yes / No / Yes / No
Daily Inspections
1. Operate the pump drive control and make sure that the pump can be engaged. Depending on the design of the apparatus the pump may be powered by a power take-off (PTO), split shaft transmission, or separate engine.
2. Make sure the fluid level in the priming oil tank is full and that the siphon-break hole in the oil line and the vent hole in the oil tank cap are open.
3. Make sure the auxiliary fuel tank is full in the case of separate engine-driven pumps with fuel supplies independent of the main apparatus fuel tank.
Skill Steps / Points / 1st Attempt / 2nd Attempt
Yes / No / Yes / No
4. Make sure all gauges and valves on the pump panel are in working order.
a. Any gauges that are duplicated on the pump panel and dashboard should be checked to make sure they are in agreement.
b. Open and close each valve several times to make sure it operates smoothly.
c. Make sure that all pump drains are closed.
5. Make sure that the fire pump and booster lines are completely drained of water to prevent damage from freezing water in cold climate conditions.
6. Operate the controls to check or inspect a fire pump.
7. Inspect the water and foam tanks (if applicable) for proper fluid level.
8. Check the underside of the apparatus and inside compartments for evidence of water or foam leaks.
Skill Steps / Points / 1st Attempt / 2nd Attempt
Yes / No / Yes / No
9. Check for damage, leaks, or obstructions in any auxiliary winterization system used to prevent fire suppression water from freezing.
Note: It may be necessary to run the booster heater on a periodic basis, even during summer months, to prevent corrosion. Refer to the operator’s manual for detailed instructions.
10. Test roof and bumper turrets (if applicable) for proper operation and full range of motion.
a. Test to ensure that the length and pattern of discharge conform to the specifications in the operator’s manual.
b. Follow your department’s SOPs regarding frequency for checking the agent dispensing system.
11. Check all components of the auxiliary fire suppression systems on board (halon, dry chemical, etc., if applicable) for damage, leaks, or corrosion.
a. Ensure that all connections are secure.
b. Check that all the valves are in the normal position for operation.
c. Check the agent level in the tank by means of an agent level or sign gauge.
d. Check dry chemical systems for signs of lumping.
e. If the system is equipped with a hose reel, check it for proper operation.
Skill Steps / Points / 1st Attempt / 2nd Attempt
Yes / No / Yes / No
Weekly Inspections
12. Flush the pump with water if it is a department policy to carry the pump full of water.
a. This may be done by opening all of the valves and drains and pushing water through the system until it runs clear and no debris is being discharged.
b. Another option is to pump water into the system through both an intake and a discharge connection (at different times).
Figure 3.42
13. Check and clean the intake strainers.
a. After flushing, it may be necessary to remove strainers to remove debris that has lodged against them.
b. Replace any strainers that are damaged or corroded.
14. Check the pump gear box for proper oil level and traces of water.
15. Operate the pump primer with all pump valves closed.
Skill Steps / Points / 1st Attempt / 2nd Attempt
Yes / No / Yes / No
16. Operate the changeover valve while pumping from the booster tank in the case of a multistage (two- or three-stage) pump.
17. Check the packing glands for excessive leaks.
18. Operate the pump pressure control device(s).
19. Test the accuracy of the foam proportioning system.
20. Refer to the pump manufacturer’s recommendations for additional instructions, if any.
Total Points

Points Possible Points Required _____ Points Awarded

Evaluator Comments


Pass _____ Fail _____

Evaluator Signature ______Date ______

Proctor Signature ______Date ______

(If applicable)

I was informed of the skill steps missed that resulted in the failure of this skill.

Candidate Signature ______Date ______

Pumping Apparatus Driver/Operator

Skill Sheet 3-7