Pumping Apparatus Driver Operator (1st Edition)
Chapter 3 - Intro to Apparatus Inspection & Maintenance
"By the Numbers"
- NFPA 1002, Standard on Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator Professional Qualifications.
- During the first 6 months after an apparatus is received, the vehicle should be frequently washed with cold water to harden the paint and keep it from spotting.
- The water stream used to clean apparatus should be at a pressure that causes water to come out of the hose about 1 foot.
- Wax should generally not be applied to apparatus until the rig is 6 months old.
- Fuel should be kept at least 3/4 full at all times.
- Noise levels in excess of 90 decibels requires that hearing protection be worn.
- Steering wheel play should not be more than 10 degrees in either direction.
- NFPA 1901 braking tests for new apparatus require that the apparatus be stopped in less than 35 feet from a speed of 20 mph.
- Braking tests also require apparatus parking brakes to hold and apparatus on a grade of 20%.
- Apparatus equipped with air brakes must be able to build enough air pressure within 60 seconds of starting to allow vehicle operation.
- Apparatus that take longer than 60 seconds to build air pressure to allow operation should be checked by a certified mechanic.
- Air pressure protection valves are found on apparatus with air brakes and prevent operation of air horns if air reservoir drops below 80 psi.
- To test road brakes, the apparatus should be allowed to move at about 5 mph, push the brake firmly, and ensure that the apparatus stops within about 20 feet. This may also be used to test parking brake.
- It is recommended that windshield washer fluid be replenished when the level is less than 1/2 full.