Report of Committee - NFPA218 COMMITTEE ON FIRE DEPARTMENT EQUIPMENT FDE-1 Report of Committee on Fire Department Equipment Walter H. Carter, Chairman, Chief, Lynn Fire Department,

218 C O M M I T T E E ON F I R E D E P A R T M E N T E Q U I P M E N T FDE-1

Report of Committee on Fire Department Equipment

Walter H. Carter , Chairman, Chief, Lynn Fire Department, 12 Grant Road, Lynn, Mass.

(rep. International Assn. of Fire Chiefs)

Warren Y. Kimbal l , t ~ c r ~ , NFPA, 60 Batterymarch St., Boston, M a ~ 02110

D. M. Baird, Canadian Underwritors A~n.

J o h n E. B a r m a n , Mi~ouri Inspection Bureau.

Ha r ry Blgglestone, Pacific Fire Rating Bureau.

J ack Bono, Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc.

Chief Frank Coakwell, Canadian Assn. of Fire Chiefs.

A. Morrison Ennis, Brooklyn, Conn.

Earl Everhar t , Fire Apparatus Mfrs. Assn.

A. H. Gent , Illinois Inspection and Rating Bureau.

Chief Jesse G. H un t e r , International As- eociation of Fire Chiefs.

J o h n L. Jablonsky, American Insurance Assn.

Ray J. Kubec, Akron Brass Co. George Layden, Peter Pirech & Sons Co.

Chief G. A. Mitchell , Fire Department, Opelika. Ala.

Donald M. O'Brian, International Assn. of Fire Chiefs.

Chief Leighton F. Peck, International As- soeiatinn of Fire Chiefs.

R. B. Sargent , Syracuse, N. Y. David T h o m a s , Watemns Co. Louis E. Vol t , Rochester Fire Academy. H u b e r t Walker, Elmira, N. Y. Claude P. Wvi~ht, Canadian Underwriters

Assn.

Alterl:tnten. Na than le l F. Odell, American Insurance

Assn. (Alternate to John L. Jahlonsky.) Chief Lester R. Schlck (Alternate Inter-

national Assn. of Fire Chide representative.) Wi l l i am Webb, Underwriters' Laboratories,

Inc. (Alternate to Jack Bonn.)

Sectional Committee on Fire Departments Serving Rural Areas

A. Morrison Ennis, Chairman, Brooklyn, Conn.

War ren Y. K i m b a l l , t Secretary, National Fire Protection Assn., 60 Battorymarch Street, Boston, Meas. 02110

J o h n Anderson, New England Insurance Rating Assn.

E. M. Bacon, U. S. Department of Agri- culture.

Chief A. K. Brizzard, Fire Department, Morgan City, La.

A. H. Gent , Illinois Inspection & Rating Bureau.

Rober t W. Gran t , Fire Marshal, Guilford County, Jamestown, N. C.

Rober t F. H a m m , Indiana Rating Bureau. Chief Lynn Ray, Fire Department, North

Park, Ill. Lo tha r Smi th , Oklahoma Inspection Bu-

reau. Rober t B. Smi th , University of Maryland. Don A. Swain, California Rural Fire Aesn. E. L. Weber, Fire Marshals Assn. of North

America. Har ry H. Wolff, Western Actuarial Bureau.

tNon-voting.

FDF_,-2 A M E N D M E . ~ r ~ T O ~ F P A NO. 19 219

The report of the NFPA Committee on Fire Department Equipment is in two parts.

Part I

The NFPA Committee on Fire Department Equipment submits a proposed revision of Standard No. 19, Specifications for Motor Fire Apparatus. The last revision was adopted in 1965. It has been the practice of the Committee to recommend changes biannually so that the Standard may keep abreast of develop- ments in the automotive and fire equipment fields. However, since adoption of the 1965 edition, a significant change in the procedures for testing and listing fire department pumpers has been adopted and the work has been transferred from the American Insurance Association (former National Board of Fire Underwriters) to Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc. These changes are considered to be of sufficient importance to warrant the adoption of a new edition of No. 19 a year earlier than the normal schedule would require.

While the principal changes being recommended are concerned with the new l~umper certification program, the Committee has taken the opportunity to recommend few additional changes which it beheves will improve the Standard including the requirements regarding connections between fire apparatus water tanks and pumps.

This report has been submitted to letter ballot of the Committee, which consists of ~1 members. Of these 17 have voted ad71rmatively and ~ had not returned ballots up to the date the NFPA Technical Committee Reports were released for printing.

220 COMMITTEE ON FIRE D EPA RTMEN T E Q U I P M E N T FDE-3

Proposed Amendments to Specifications for

Motor Fire Apparatus

N F P A N o . 19 - - 1 9 6 5

1. I n t r o d u c t i o n - add "7" to chapters applying to a triple combination pumper; delete reference to No. 192.

2. Add note to 1021.

NoTE: The power generated by naturally aspirated intenlal comblLstion engines decreases about 3 ~ per cent for each 1,000 feet elevation above sea level, also, the ability of a pump to draft water decreases at higher altitudes; therefore, purchaser shall specify in Special Provisions attached, if point of delivery is at an elevation of over 1,000 feet.

3. Revise 1111 to read:

1111. T h e Chief of the F i re D e p a r t m e n t or his de s igna t ed r e p r e s e n t a t i v e shal l be the accep t ance a u t h o r i t y .

4. New paragraph 1112.

1112. A c c e p t a n c e shal l be m a d e upon comple t ion of the tes t s here in specified.

5. Renumber former 1112 as 1113.

6. In Article 120, add:

Altitude of delivery (1021).

7. Add to note in 2812: (See A-281~).

8. Add to note in 2336: (See A-2336).

9. In 28~3 make second sentence a note; present note a part of new 2344.

NOTP.: I t is desirable that a separate seat be provided for driver; purchaser will so specify in the Special Provisions attached, if desired.

10. New paragraph 2 3 ~ :

S e a t bel ts a n d / o r sa fe ty s t r aps shal l conform to app l i cab l e regula t ions .

NOTE: The purchaser shall indicate in the Special Provisions attached if belts and/or safety straps are to be installed, specifying the position of such installation. Seat belts when specified should conform to Specification J4c of the Society of Automotive Engineers.

FDE-4 AMENDMENTS TO NFPA NO. 19

221

11. Former ~81~, new ~355.

19. Delete second sottence in ~5~1.

13. Add note to ~5P3.

NOTE: V~'nere an increased top speed is desired, purchaser shall specify in Special Provisions attached. It is recommended that specified speed not be increased for ae.rial ladder or elevating platform trucks.

15. Revise Article ~60. Add: Separate driver 's seat (2343).

Revise (new 1~3/~) as follows: Seat belts and /o r safety straps (2344).

Add: Top speed (2523).

15. Delete note in 3091.

16. Delete 3P13.

17. Add note to 3995. /

"NOTE." Where pumpers are used frequently in relay operations, it may be desirable to specify means for limiting the pressure on the suction side of the pump. If this is desired, purchaser shah specify in the Special Provisions attached.

18. Delete note in 3939.

19. 3311. Revise portim~ following "250 psi net pump pressure for a t least ~ hour ," to read as follows:

and has complied with the provisions of Paragraph 3042. (See Appendix for form to be used for the results of the Manu- facturer 's Four -Hour Run- In Test) .

~0. 3390 to become 3330; revised 3320 to read as follows:

3320.

3321. t e s t . . .

3322.

3323.

3324.

3325.

3326.

3327. a single

Certification Tests. (See A-3320)

Former 3381. Revise to read, A three-hour certification

Former 3339. Change the word "shor t" to "10-minute."

Former 8333.

Former 3335.

Former 3351. Change first word to "Cert if icat ion."

Former 3359.

Tests shall be made with 20 feet of hard suction hose in line and with external and internal strainers.

222 C O M M I T T E E O N F I R E D E P A R T M E N T E Q U I P M E N T FDE-5

NO'rE: The following suction hose sizes will normally permit rated capacity to be delivered up to a 10-foot lift:

500-gpm pumpers, 4Yz-ineh, 750-gpm pumpers, 4Yz- or 5-inch,

1000-gpm pumpers, 5- or 6-inch, 1250-gpm pumpers, 6-inch, 1500-gpm pumpers, 0-inch or two suction lines, both on the same side of

the apparatus. (See A3327)

3328. Former 33~ . Revise Table 33~8 (Former Table 331~) by adding to lO00--gpm pumpers "41/~2, 13, plus 2" and to l~50-gpm pumpers "5, 12~ , plus 2."

~1. Add revised 3330 to read:

3330. Date R e q u i r e d of t h e M a n u f a c t u r e r .

3331. The manufacturer must supply, at the time of delivery, at least one copy of:

(1) Underwriters ' Laboratories, Inc. "Certifieate of Inspec- tion for Fire Depar tment P u m p e r " - - F o r m 3000-375 (see Appendix).

(2) Manufacturer 's Record of Pumper Construction De- tails - - Form 3000-375A (see Appendix).

(3) Manufacturer 's Four-Hour Run-In Test R e s u l t s - - Form 19-1 (see Appendix).

(4) Engine manufacturer 's certified brake horsepower curve showing the maximum no-load governed speed.

3332. A plate shall be provided at the pump operator 's position whieh gives the rated diseharges and pressures together with the speed of the engine as determined by the manufacturer 's test for each unit, and the no-load governed speed of the engine as stated by the engine manufacturer on a certified brake horsepower curve. The plate shall be completely stamped with all information at the factory and at tached to the vehicle prior to shipping.

• P~,. Revised 33~0 to read:

3340. Tests on Delivery.

3341. If a pump test, conducted by the manufacturer, is desired at the point of delivery, purchaser shall specify in the Spe- cial Provisions attached. This test shall be run in accordance with those provisions of Paragraph 3320 which the purchaser specifies.

NOTE: (1) It is suggested that the fire insurance rating organization haw ing jurisdiction be contacted concerning local requirements.

FDE-6 AMENDMENTS TO NFPA NO. 19

223

(2) It is suggested that a test of sufficient duratiou be run when the point of delivery is over 2,000 feet of elevation to assure operat ional abi l i ty at higher alti tudes.

23. In Arlicl~ 340, delete: Radiator Refill Line (3~3~) and add: Suction pressure control (3224) Tests on delivery (3341)

~ . Change ~ 1 1 to read: Hard suction hose when specified in Paragraph 10110" shall b e . . .

~5. Add note to 5011 :

Nowz: If the characteristics contained in Chapter 5 are not desired, purchaser shall specify in Special Provisions attached, those characteristics desired.

~6. Add new 6015 to read:

6015. The tank shall be designed so as to permit discharge of 100 per cent of nonfinal capacity at the flow rate specified in Paragraph 6023.

~7. Add to first paragraph of 60~3:

The specified rate of flow shall be maintained throughout the discharge period for the rated capacity of the tank. (See A-6023.) Add note (~):

NOTZ: (2) If a flow rate greater than 250 gpm is desired, purchaser shall specify in the Special Provisions attached.

~8. Renumber former Article 680 as 640 and add new provisions:

Tank to pump flow rate (6023) Gated tank connections (6242)

~,9. Add new Article 630:

Art ic le 630. T e s t s

6310. A test shall be conducted to determine the abihty of the equipment to provide, on level ground, the flow specified in Paragraph 6023 or in the Special Provisions attached.

80. Add note to 6 ~ 2 :

NOTE: If more than one 2~-inch gated connection is desired or if a connection larger than 21/~ inches is desired, purchaser shall specify in Special Provisions attached.

81. In 10110, replace ~0 feel smooth bore rubber suclion hose with the ]oUowing:

224 C O M M I T T E E ON F I R E D E P A R T M E N T E Q U I P M E N T FDE-7

Suction hose. Purchaser shall specify, in the Special Provi- sions attached, the type, diameter, and length desired. (See 3327 and 4211.)

3~. Add "to 10130:

1 suction siamese (1 pump suction female thread, 2 2~-inch hose female thread).

33. Add to Appendix:

A-2312. Adequate braking capacity is essential for the safe operation of fire apparatus. While this subject is normally covered in state highway regulations, it should be noted tha't fire apparatus may have a special problem as compared with normal trucks of the same gross vehicle weight in that fire apparatus may be required to make successive brake applications in a short period of time when attempting to respond to alarms with minimum loss of time. Thus, the problem of brake "fade" and braking capacity may be critical unless the brakes provided take into account the service requirements. In some areas, air actuated brakes have been recommended for fire service vehicles of over 25,000 GVW. Where air brakes are provided, it is important that they be of quick build-up type with dual tanks and a pressure regulating valve, and that the rated compressor capacity be not less than 12 cubic feet per minute for this class of service. Also, air brakes require attention to guard against con- densation in the air lines such as may occur in certain areas subject to marked seasonal changes in climate affecting the moisture content of the air.

3~. Revise A-~3~5 to read:

A-2525. The angle of departure (see Glossary) affects the road clearance of the vehicle when going over short steep grades such as would be found in a driveway entrance, crossing a high crowned road at right angles, or in off-road service. Too low an angle of departure will result in scraping the rear of the body. In those cases where equipment is stored below the body in the rear, the angle of departure must be measured to a line below the equipment.

35. Add new A-~3~6:

A-2320. The desirable height of rear steps is normally 20 to 22 inches; however, considering the angle of departure as specified in Paragraph 2325, this dimension is variable.

36. Dele~ last sentence of A-80~1.

FDE--8 A M E N D M E N T S T O N F P A NO. 19 225

87. Add new A~3~O (first senlence of former A..3330):

A-3320. A purchaser should always require that a new pumper be tested in the presence of his authorized representative before accepting it.

88. Add new A-38~7. (Former A-33~8):

A-3327. "An adequate size suction hose should be used for testing in order to obtain a true measure of performance. Too small suction hose will restrict the flow of water, thereby increas- ing the frie~,ion loss in suction hose~and may prevent the delivery of the rated capacity of the pumper at the available vertical lift.

89. Insert A-60~8 to read:

A-6023. These specifications provide for a minimum flow of 250 gpm from the water tank on a pumper. This is to permit the supplying of two 1½-inch hose lines or one 2½-inch hose line from the tank for an initial attack on a fire. Where water tanks are of 800 gallons capacity or larger and where adequate pump capacity is provided, the specifications call for a minimum flow rate of 500 gpm from the tank to permit rapid unloading when the vehicle is being used to transport water to the scene of a fire. Fire departments that desire to discharge water from the tanks on pumpers at a rate greater than 250 gpm should specify the rate of flow in the Special Provisions attached to this specification.

60. Replace pumper data and lest forms with specimens of Under- writers' Laboratories, Inc. forms: 8000-375, 3000-375A, and form 19-1 as follows:

226 C O M M I T T E E O N F I R E D E P A R T M E N T E Q U I P M E N T FDE-9

o o . ~ o , e .o.. ~,..'. - ,- . . . . . . . .

• " , : , ~ . , ~ . ' ..

.~,m~ru-ar l [ n z l u r a n ~ r . ~ . l ~ r ~ l l ~ l D a t e " . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

CERTIFICATE OF INSPECTION FOR FIRE DEPARTMENT PU.MPER

RATED CAPACITY ................... ~PM,

This oc~ti/'ie~ that the pumper dr.r.cribed has performed acceptably on a 3-Hour Pumping Test andis provided with items of equ/pment, as recorded below.

Manu fac tu red by: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mede] N o . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SePal No . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . For : .............................................................................. Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chassis: Mig~ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Model No . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Serial No . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Eng ine : M f g r . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mode] N o . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ser ia l N o . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pump: .Mfgj . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Model N o . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Serial N o . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

THREE IIOUR PUMPING TEST Test C43ndltions: Bar. Pressure ................ In. Hg. Temp ............... de S, F. Air/rude. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ft. H a r d SuCtion Hose: Size .. . . . . . . . . . . . . In. Leng th .............. Ft. Pump elev. above ~-ate~ source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ft . SUrniner( s ) .......................................................................... Perle rmmn~ (~.~ti~ted t o . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FL A l ~ d e

Over load. Capac i ty - - IB~ PSI

F ~ o w p u u p uuc~om ~fv Puu~ a~atNz ~ z a m n • ~o z n u ~-~

Automatic Pressure Contzol: .M:~udmcrm Pressure Incre.~e . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PSI. Vacuum Test: Vacuum Developed .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . In. Hg. Afzer 10 Min . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . In. Hg. N o L ~ d Governed Speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . RPM: 51~ci f ied M a x i m u m . . . . . . . . . . . RP.M. M ~ i m u m Eng ine Opera t ing Tempera tu re ..................... Deg. F. H o w measured . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tune . . . . . . . . . . . .

EQUIPMEN"F CHECK Fuel Syttem: Tank ma.~. liqu.:d ]eve] below c~rhuretor flcmt ................................ ; Fuel line solenoid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ; Elec. fuel pump at tank ........................... ; 2-hr. rated capacity .......................... Pump Conn~ l l ons : Suct ion inlets ................ ft. above EFound; Removah le or ~ccessibiz strainer .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ; o~ in. i ndependen t gated suc l inn .................... ; A t ] e~ t one o~ i n , l m ~ out le t per o ~ C P M t-apaelt)" . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ; Disehm'ge ,-aIve~ and protect ive caps w i t h retdiners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . : Accessible d ra in cocks far pumps and water l ines .................... Ccmh'oh: V is ib le and accessible | re in nperatm's pos i t ion ............... ; i l l um ina ted .. . . . . . . . . . . . : Meta | opera t ing p h t e at tached .. . . . . . . . . . . ; P u m p i n g posi t ions ind ica ted at gear shif t ............. ;Other dr i f ts m le le rs .............. L o c ~ or e2t©hes p r o v ~ e d ........... : Pus i t ive lv he ld fl~re e . . . . . . . . : Au~ i l ia~" ( no er . : k leat exchanger suppl ied f rom p u m p discharge .............. Gauges: Suc t l nn -S i ze .................. ; in . l l g ................ psi.: D ischarge--S ize . . . . . . . . . . . . . ; . . . . . . . . . . . In. I f g . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . psi.: inspectors t a p s - P l u g g e d ................ ; Suct icm ................ ; D isc l iarge ................ ; .Ma r ! , ed . . I ns l rumsn~ : Eng ine Ta©lmmeCer ............... ; A t operater 's posisian ................ : p rov is ion to ~ n n e t t h a n d taeh ................ ; Rat io to engine ................ ; Odometer ............... : Od pressure gpuse- - l n cab ................ : Operators' pane] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tank Cannst ' f lons: T a n k | i l l insta l led ............... : ~-in, rain. by-p.~s~ w. t l i manua l contro l at operator 's passtion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

N o t Va l i d Unless Counte rs igned Signed:D, L. B ' R E T I N ~ " P ~ " ~

V/ce President and UNDERWRITERS' LABORATORIES, INC. Superintendent Label Service

CERTIFICATE

FDE-10 A M E N D M E N T S T O N F P A N O . 19 227

|. 9. 3. 4. 5, 8. 7. 8. 9,

I0, IL 12. 13, 14. IS. lB. 17. 18. 19. on o.I.

23. 'Z4.

.°7. ~q, 29. 30. 31. 3o,., 33. 34. 3~. 38.

MANUFACT~'RER'S RECORD OF PUMPER CONSTRUCTION D E T A I L S %

Date ........................... Manu|actun~r ......................................................................................

Mnm~a~uze1's Model ............................................ Mnm~actu.te~'t Se~d No. ......

Engine: Make ..................................... Model ............................. ~gine No ................. No. Cyl .......... Bate .......... in.; Sl+roke....~.... in.: Displ ........... eu. in.: Com~. l~IHO--.-.---..-~to !

pe~ko~ ......... Drake Horlelx)xve~ developed without a~'emorle~ at . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ~ I~m P e ~ o t ........... Foot.Pounds o~ Torque developed w ~ m m ~ e s at. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ignition: Syutem Voltage. .............. Sp.~rk Plugs pe+ Cyl ............ b~goeto: Make. .............

Ce~eTatm: Outl~t ................ Watts; Altema~m: Output ................... Amperes

Batte~: Single?. . .Dual? ..... C_.al~ei~ Y ............. Amp.-Hrs.; Mike and ModeJ ................

Fuel: Czsol ine Tank: Cal:mct W ....................... Gallons; Loc l t i on ................................... Type of Feed ............................................. Aml-Siphon Device? ...........................

CooKng System: Heat Es©lumser? ........................................... Rsdlntor ReliD Line? ...................

Size: Had~tr~r ~ ~ ........................ in. diam; Rn~da~m" Ove~im~ . . . . . . . ...In. ~a .

Transmhfion: ~ Ratim; Fifth ........................... to I. Fourth . . . . . . . to 1. ~ . . . . . . . . t~ I, Seoo~d ........................ ~ 1. F i~ t . . . . . . . . to 1. ~ . . . . ea I.

Aumumfic: Describe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr ive to Pump through T n m . u n t . u ~ ? . . . . . . . . . Special C h t e E ? _ _

Whst Tram. Gear Used: I ~ I ~ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ~00 ps~ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ~ 0 [~t . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Haf lm: I~qgme to Pump: 150 psi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200 p , . . . . . . . . . . ~a0 ps~

Pump: Make ................................ Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C.apac~ty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ~pm; Pump No . . . . . . . . . . . . . T y p e ......................................................................... Impelle~ Dlame~e~ . . . . . . . . . . Pr iming Device: Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ~ t e n l Pump Dlsph~m~enL . . . . . . . . g / r P~esstLre Comml: ReUe~ V~Ive? .......................... PPes~u~e Regulating Goven~? .............................

Separate Booster Pump? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Make.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mod.e.J . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Clutssis: Ma~L .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chnss is No . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

WheeJ Base . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .in.: Wid th . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . in.; Di f ferent ia l ~ Ratio ......... ". . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . to I Bomtm" Tank: Capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . C.a~.; Shape nnd Locz~on. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Welght: Max. Allowable Cross .................... Ibs,; Wi~out Me., Hose, Water, Equipment ............. I~

Vehicle Weight Dis~ibuf ion: Frmsz Wheel, .......................... Fro,; Rc~ Wheeh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [~s. Az]e~: R~ted Cnpacity: From V,~e~ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I~s,; ~ Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ]~. Tires: Size ,rod Ply: Front ..................................... ~ ..................... DulFP,,eaz? .............

The above Infmmation is eertt~ed correct:

Company

By .. (nes~omm~ Om~d )

2 2 8 C O M M I T T E E O N F I R E D E P A R T M E N T E Q T I P M E N T F D E - 1 1

% F o r m 1 9 - 1

MANUFACTURER'S FOUR-HOUR RUN-IN TEST RESULTS

MANUFACTURER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F O B . - . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Manufaeture~'s Model: ..................................................... Manutactur,='s Serial No.: ................ ENGINE: Mnke. ............................................ Model .............................. BHP: ................... at ....... Covemed

PUMP: Mnke_... ....................................... Model .............................. Torque: ............ at ............................ BPM

GEAR RATIO: Engine to Pump: IS0 tnl : . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ~ 0 psi: ........................... 250 psi: . . . . . . . . TRANSMISSION GEAR USED: Ifi0 psi: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ~00 psi: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250 ps i : . TEST: Bequirements: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CPM at 150 PSI Net Pump Pressure.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . " " 2 5 0 . . . .

n..vr L a ~ u t

Nozzle

Pt;mP PRF..S3U m~ comnsa L . ~ p v,~., prim

I

SECOND TEST Nozzle Layout

*. p. m, t, um, rmESSURE rml coumrEm r ~ . . ~ p * l . ~ TKSZ vtroT

~ a S [ SAS|

t p

' I I

t , I T H I R D TEST N o'o.le

Layout

T , , t c ~ , . r . , . , . , . , c . . ~ ' ~ " *,otvE" ' ~ " ~

I ( ! W

,I i

FINAL RESULTS i

I t s o m s o o m z s o m Duration

Ave. Nc~. Press. _ _ Conect/on . . . . . . . . i O m e c t e d ~ m . - _ l

D / s p l . ~ e n ~ t . . . . . i - ( N o m t . ~ ) I

Slip, P ~ Cent . ~ . ~mp sts- ( ~ . . s ~ . ) ! Ave. Pump Press . ' ._ I Cage ~ . . . . . [ S .cC.~ Pred.t ........ ( Net Pump Pres .... . . . . B P M - E n g / n e . . . . . . . . R P M - P u m p . . . . . . . .

• Test gage reading. t See NFPA 19.

EXCESS P O W E R TEST: ............... gpm at ................ psi ne t p u m p pressttte.

Speed: Eng/ne........rpm. Pump........rpm. Time.. ._. .M/L

PUMP MANUFACTURERS PI~..SSURE TEST

Impel1~ chamber h d/scharge o~mectiom .......... psl for ........... ml , . Suet/on d ~ n b ¢ ~ ........... p~ for . . . . . . . . .

The above is a correct retard of th~;e test resu]tl.

229 FDE-12 COMMITTEE ON FIRE DEPARTMENT EQUIPMENT

Par t II

The Committee on Fire Department Equipment submits for tentative adoption "Recommendations for Using NFPA Standard No. 19 in Writing Fire Apparatus Specifications," No. 19B-PT. The Sectional Committee on Fire Departments Serving Rural Areas expressed concern over the fact that there were thousands of communities including many with volunteer fire departments which lack experience in how to go about determining then" fire apparatus needs and writing suitable specifications. A subcommittee was appointed headed by Fire Marshal Robert Grant of Guilford County, North Carolina, which prepared a suggested text. The proposal was unanimously approved by the Sectional Com- mittee which voted to refer the subject to the Committee on Fire Department Equipment for appropriate action by NFPA. Various comments and suggestions were received and were incorporated into a revised text prepared by an editorial subcommittee con- sisting of the chairmen and the secretary of the two committees. The most important changes concerned making the proposed text a more specific supplement to NFPA No. 19 and making it ap- plicable to all types of fire departments.

The revised draft was submitted to the letter ballot of both Com- mittees in May 1965 for publication and distribution by NFPA as a proposed tentative standard in order to obtain wider comment. In November 1965, the published text was reviewed by the Steering Subcommittee of the Committee on Fire Department Equipment and some editorial changes were recommended on the basis of comments received. These editorial changes were unanimously adopted by the full Committee at its January 1966 meeting which voted to submit No. 19B-P to the Association for tentative adoption with the expectation that further improvements might be made in the text before it is submitted for final adoption.

This report has been submitted to letter ballot of the Committee which consists oJ 21 members. Of these 15 voted affirmatively and 3 voted nega- tively and 3 did not return a letter ballot. At a meeting o/ the Committee, subsequent to the letter ballot, editorial changes suggested by the members who had objected were unanimously adopted and the negative votes were withdrawn with the understanding that the text would be subject to .further review be/ore final adoption was recommended.

The report was also submitted to the Sectional Committee on Fire Depart- merits Serving Rural Areas because this Committee had submitted the original text. Of 14 voting members, 11 voted affrmatively and three did not return ballots.

230 19B-1

Proposed Recommendations for

Using NFPA Standard No. 19 in Writing Fire Apparatus Specifications

N F P A N o . 1 9 B - P T - - 1 9 6 6

NFPA Standard No. 19, Specifications for Motor Fire Apparatus, is designed to provide fire departments the type of apparatus desired to fit the needs of any community. The Specifications are drawn to cover acceptable performance with a minimum of design details and without restrictive features which might limit competitive bidding. A number of options are presented so that the purchaser may indicate preferences or additional features wanted in special provisions of the specifications. The current edition of Standard No. 19 was adopted by NFPA in 1965 on the recommenda- tion of the Committee on Fire Department Equipment and has been endorsed by the International Association of Fire Chiefs.

Standard No. 19 is arranged in ten chapters covering such items as pumps, hose body, water tanks, ladders, and equipment to be carried, plus an informative appendix. Any desired type of apparatus can be obtained by indicating the chapters which are to apply to a given purchase, plus the options wanted in special provisions.

The following text has been prepared by the NFPA Sectional Committee on Fire Departments Serving Rural Areas to help fire chiefs and others who may wish advice and assistance as to the procedures to be followed in determining what should be included in a new piece of apparatus; in writing specifications for such equipment using the provisions of Standard No. 19; and the procedures to be followed in soliciting bids and awarding a contract to the successful bidder.

The text has been published and circulated for comment. I t has been reviewed by the Committee on Fire Department Equip- ment which voted to submit the text to NFPA for tentative adoption as a "Recommended Practice" under NFPA technical committee procedure.

231 19B-3

Using NFPA Standard No. 19 in Writing Fire Apparatus Specifications

NFPA No. 19B-PT-- 1966

The purchase of new fire apparatus involves a major investment for the community and should be treated as such. Today 's fire apparatus is a complex piece of mechanical equipment which should not be purchased in a haphazard manner. The fire chief who bragged about buying a $18,000 pumper after a one-hour conversa- tion with a salesman, was certainly not doing his community a service unless he had previously thoroughly investigated the equipment needs of his department and was certain that the apparatus offered fully met these needs. Apparatus should be purchased only after detailed study of the needs of the local department taking into consideration other equipment the department may own or may plan to buy.

In purchasing any piece of fire apparatus, fire departments should use the National Fire Protection Association Standard No. 19, "Specifications for Motor Fire Apparatus." This specification is prepared by the Committee on Fire Department Equipment representing fire chiefs, fire underwriters, apparatus manufacturers and other qualified persons in this field. The chairman of the committee is a representative of the International Association of Fire Chiefs. A new edition is adopted and issued biannually by NFPA. The specification is designed in such a way as to assure sound equipment capable of good performance without inclusion of restrictive features which could only be met by one builder of apparatus. An important feature of the Standard is the tests specified to assure chat the completed apparatus will meet the intended performance.

In addition to the requirements which must be met for each basic type of apparatus, the Standard calls attention to many optional or special features which may be desirable in a given fire department and which should be included if desired under the "Special Pro- visions," enumerated in each chapter of the Standard. In this way, a fire department can obtain apparatus designed to fit its individual needs while at the same time meeting all the standard requirements which should go into a modern fire truck.

Everyone concerned with the purchase of fire apparatus should be very familiar with Standard No. 19 which can be obtained from the National Fire Protection Association, 60 Batterymarch Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02110, at a cost of $1.00 per single copy.

232 19B--4 WRITING FIRE APPARATUS SPECIFICATIONS

Very important is the appendix which contains valuable information provided to help the purchaser make the best possible choices with regard to special features that may be specified.

Standard No. 19 is designed for use in buying various types of fire apparatus including pumpers, mobile water supply apparatus, aerial ladders and elevating platform equipment. In using the Standard, the chapters which are to apply should be specified. The following chapters cover the various possible features of the equipment:

1. Requirements of Bid and Delivery. 2. Provisions Applying to All Types of Apparatus. 3. Provisions Applying to Apparatus Equipped with a Fire Pump. 4. Provisions Applying to Apparatus Equipped with a Hose Body. 5. Provisions Applying to Apparatus Equipped with a Booster

Pump. 6. Provisions Applying to Apparatus Equipped with a Water

Tank. 7. Provisions Applying to Apparatus Carrying Ground Ladders. 8. Provisions Applying to Apparatus Equipped with an Aerial

Ladder. 9. Provisions Applying to Apparatus Equipped with an Ele-

vating Platform. 10. Equipment to be Carried by the Various Types of Apparatus.

In buying the various types of apparatus listed below, the chapters indicated should be specified:

Type of Apparatus

Triple Combination Pumper Quadruple Combination, Pumper-Lad-

der Truck Aerial Ladder Truck (with Booster) Quintuple Combination, Pumper-Aerial

Ladder Truck Elevating Platform Booster and Hose Truck Mobile Water Supply (Tanker) Grass and Brush Fire Truck

Chapters

1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 10

1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 10 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10

1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 10 1 ,2 ,7 ,9 , 10 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 10 1, 2, 5, 6, 10 1 ,2 ,5 ,6 , 10

Thus, in writing fire apparatus specifications, Standard No. 19 should be used as the authoritative guide with the special provisions added as desired to meet local needs.

STUDY OF A P P A R A T U S NEEDS

233 19B-5

I

There are several important steps to follow in purchasing new fire apparatus:

Study of Apparatus Needs This is a very important first step in obtaining a fire truck fitting

the needs of the individual community. Normally a fire department operates more than one piece of apparatus or if this is the first piece, other pieces will be purchased subsequently. How will the present purchase fit into the long range needs of the department? Is the primary need for a pumping engine, for a mobile water supply truck, for ladder and rescue equipment, or for a combination of these? The amount of water and equipment that a given fire truck can carry and still meet the road performance requirements is limited so that decisions may have to be made as to the amount of water or hose that will be carried. The local fire chief should be the key man in making these decisions as he will be responsible for using the apparatus effectively at fires. Often the chief is assisted by a purchasing committee to solicit and open bids from manufacturers based upon the specifications and to assure that all legal purchase procedures are met and that various prospective bidders are given due consideration.

When making plans to purchase a fire truck, there are a number of places where valuable information may be obtained. In most areas, the fire insurance rating organization has issued recommendations regarding fire apparatus which should be included to meet their requirements for the class of service intended. Rating bureau engineers assigned to this work are usually willing to discuss with appropriate officials the needs of a local fire department as to apparatus and equipment. Some states have fire training officers who are familiar with various types of fire apparatus and who may be able to make helpful suggestions. There may/be testing facilities at a nearby fire training school such as a pumper test pit which can be used in conducting the acceptance tests specified in Standard No. 19. One of the best sources of information is other fire departments in the area which have bought new apparatus in the past several years. Most chiefs are willing to point out the features they like best about a given piece of apparatus and suggest changes that they would make in their next purchase. In looking at apparatus in other departments, it is important to consider the size and type of community served. For example, a city with a good hydrant distribution may specify smaller water tanks and larger hose bodies than a rural or suburban fire department where much of the water used must be carried on the apparatus. A city fire department may carry most of its special equipment on ladder trucks while a small department lacking a separate ladder or equipment truck may need extra compartment space on a pmnper for appliances.

234 19B---6 W R I T I N G F I R E A P P A R A T U S S P E C I F I C A T I O N S

Sales representatives of various apparatus manufacturers that might be interested in bidding should be informed that purchase of a new truck is under consideration and be permitted to suggest features which they have to offer. However, care must be taken not to include in the specifications design features available from only one builder as this will prevent the fire department from securing bids from several reliable builders and may result in a higher purchase price due to restriction of competition.

Above all, the fire chief should study the existing apparatus of the fire department to see what changes should be made in the light of experience with the present equipment or to take advantage of recent improvements in fire fighting equipment and methods. Often modifications in apparatus will permit significant improvements in fire fighting methods. Perhaps the old truck does not have enough hose capacity or does not have a split hose bed so that more than one line can be laid at once. Perhaps the piping from water tank to pump is too small to supply effective streams for a fast initial attack or the water tank is too small to sustain the type of streams that should be supplied from the tank.

A fire truck is a long-term investment. Study the community and its expected growth. Will the apparatus be suitable ten years from now? What about special hazards in the area such as flam- mable liquids storage? Will any special fire fighting appliances be needed? How about water supply? Will most pumping be from hydrants or from suction sources? Does the terrain or condition of roads and bridges make it necessary to specify special limitations or performance such as hill climbing ability or greater clearance under the chassis in the special provisions of the specification? All of these factors should be studied and notes made of special requirements before writing the specifications.

In cases where a fire department plans to furnish the chassis on which the apparatus is to be built, it is essential that the chassis selected be of the proper type and capacity so that the completed fully loaded vehicle will meet the performance tests set forth in No. 19. The proper vehicle performance is the basis of all good fire apparatus. Overloaded vehicles are slow, unreliable and apt to be dangerous to operate. Under the provisions of Standard No. 19, the apparatus builder is responsible for the complete fire fighting apparatus. He must use a truck, engine, transmission, axles, tires, etc., which will meet the specified tests when the loaded apparatus is ready for service. He will be responsible for seeing that the engine and pump assembly are designed to meet the specified performance. The Standard requires the proper weight distribution on the axles so essential to sale vehicle operation and to guard against overloads which can cause breakdowns.

235 ca~sm 19B-7

Writing the Specifications As previously mentioned, NFPA No. 19 provides the basic

standard specification for purchasing fire apparatus and should be followed in writing specifications. Fire apparatus builders are ex= pected to be familiar with this standard and usually all that is required is to indicate which chapters of the standard specification are to apply to the apparatus being purchased and to set forth the Special Provisions which will be part of the specification. The Special Provisions will include the optional items or special features which are wanted in addition to the basic requirements of each chapter. This is not a difficult task because each chapter enumerates the special provisions which should be considered and included in the specification if desired.

Chassis Perhaps the most important test in Standard No. 19 is the road

test of the coml~leted fully loaded vehicle. Underpowered units which may be able to meet the pumping test cannot meet the vehicle acceleration tests. If the department has special requirements about height, width, length, or under-vehicle clearance, these should be stated in the special provisions. The apparatus builders are required to furnish with their bids complete information on the vehicle and chassis to be used including the engine manufacturers' certified horsepower curve, the gross vehicle rating, axle ratings, etc. Engine manufacturers are usually very particular

. t to see that the proper engine is used as required to meet the specification as their reputation is at stake if an engine is installed which fails to meet the tests and is rejected by the purchaser.

If ~ e vehicle is expected to operate on grades in excess of 10 percent or if the brakes must hold on grades in excess of 20 percent, the maximum grades which will be encountered should be included in the special provisions. Likewise, if the apparatus is to regularly operate at altitudes above 1,000 feet, the maximum altitudes to be encountered must be set forth in the special provisions because this affects the vehicle performance, the ability of the pump to meet its performance tests, and the size of suction hose required. Likewise, if the apparatus is to operate at abnormally low temperatures, this should be indicated because additional protection against freezing may be needed. I f gasoline tank requirements are greater than called for ha Standard No. 19, these should be covered in special provisions. Likewise, installation of seat belts or safety straps, power steering, automatic transmission, power brakes, are matters to cover in the special provisions.

A standard fire truck includes a semi-cab, that is a cab with wind- shield and doors but without a roof. I f an enclosed cab or c o r n -

236 19B-8 WRITING FIRE APPARATUS SPECIFICATIONS

pletely enclosed apparatus body is wanted, this is indicated in the special provisions.

Electrical Standard No. 19 includes basic requirements for the electrical sys-

tems of fire apparatus and this includes driving lights, emergency lights, generator, battery capacity, etc. However, because of the number of power consuming appliances on a fire truck, it is considered desirable to specify under the special provisions that an "al ternator" be provided. This is an alternating current type of generator. The minimum capacity recommended is 100 ampere output. With this system, it is possible to specify that a transformer and outlets be provided which can be used to supply several portable lights on the fireground. The fire department should also have a portable electric generator of at least 2500 watt capacity. If not available on other apparatus, this should be specified as additional equipment along with the necessary cables and lights. This generator capacity is also needed to drive smoke ejectors and power tools because the current output of an alternator driven by the truck engine normally is not suitable for this service.

The purchaser should also indicate in the special provisions whether dual ignition systems and dual battery systems are required. These may be called for to increase the reliability of the apparatus electrical system for emergency operations but may increase the cost.

I f spotlights, warning lights, or a special type of siren are wanted above that provided in the Standard, these should be indicated in the special provisions. If a buzzer or other signal between the rear step and the driver is wanted, this should be indicated. A desirable additional feature is a "bull 's-eye" light on the dashboard to indicate when doors are left open.

Pumps All fire pumps, regardless of make or type, are required to meet

the same performance tests called for in No. 19 in accordance with their rated pumping capacity. The principal requirement is to determine the rated capacity that should be specified. Standard fire pumps are rated at 150 pounds per square inch net pump pressure and come in five standard sizes from 500 gpm to 1500 gpm. Formerly, the 500 gpm pump was most frequently used in small town and rural fire departments and 750 gpm pumps in cities. At present, most small town and rural fire pumpers are being delivered with a 750 gpm pump as this can be powered by any engine capable of meeting the vehicle performance tests. This size of pump is capable of supplying over 500 gpm at 200 psi, for pumping through long lines or for spray nozzle operation.

237 puMPs 19B-9

Places having hydrant systems to supply pumpers are buying more 1000 gpm and larger pumps as these are needed to supply large capacity streams at higher pressures for turret nozzles, ladder pipes or streams from elevated platform apparatus. Unless finances are extremely limited, the slight additional cost of providing larger pumping capacity usually is a good investment.

While all fire pumps of a specified rated capacity must meet the same performance standards, there are sometimes reasons why a fire department prefers a particular type (not make). In such cases, the type of pump should be specified in the special provisions. Many rural departments prefer a front-mounted pump because the truck can be headed to water with the rear axle remaining on firm ground aqd because this arrangement provides considerably more space on the chassis for the water tank and equipment compartments. Some fire departments prefer a single stage pump because of its relative simplicity of operation. Others like a multiple stage pump. Any such preference should be indicated. Care should be taken not to include features which will exclude an equally good pump of another type.

I f the water to be pumped may be of corrosive type, a bronze pump and nonferrous piping should be specified in. the special provisions. Additional pump suction inlets may be desirable at the front or rear of the truck and may be specified in special provisions. However, it must be recognized that the long suction or supply line.q may reduce the efficiency of the pump unless of ample size to handle the intended flow.

In addition to the large suction inlets, a standard pumper is required to have a gated 2½-inch inlet for supplying water under pressure from another pump or hydrant. Additional 2~ - inch gated pump inlets are useful and should be specified in special provisions if wanted. Some fire departments meet this need by specifying a gated siamese for connecting two 2½-inch lines to a larger pumper inlet.

Standard pumps are equipped with one gated 2½-inch discharge outlet for each 250 gpm of rated capacity. However, additional pump discharge outlets at the rear or elsewhere can be provided for attaching preconnected hose or additional discharge lines where water supplies permit. The number and location of such additional outlets should be specified. Another desirable special feature is hose valve caps equipped with reducing couplings so that either 2~ - inch or 1n- inch hose can be attached. Normally, all discharge gate controls are located at the pump operator 's panel.

The Standard requires use of American National Standard fire hose coupling threads on all sizes of hose from booster hose to suction hose. I f adapters are needed for some local thread, these must be specified.

238 19B-10 W R I T I N G F I R E A P P A R A T U S S P E C I F I C A T I O N S

All pumpers must have two gages: one indicates the pressure coming into the pump and the other the pressure being discharged. Frequently both of these are of the "compound" type and show pressures below atmospheric in inches of mercury and pressures above atmospheric in pounds per square inch. When the pump is drafting the gage on the suction side will show a reading below atmospheric and when the pump is being supplied from a hydrant or another pumper, the pressure will be above atmospheric. Additional pressure gages for each discharge connection are useful where a pump must deliver different pressures to individual lines of hose.

The capacity of the piping from the water tank to the pump is very important. Standard No. 19 requires that for water tanks of less than 800 gallons capacity, the pump must be able to draw water from the tank at not less than 250 gpm. This permits the operation of two good lines of 1 ~ - i nch hose or one standard 2~- inch line for initial attack. For tanks of 800 gallons capacity or over the Standard calls for a minimum flow of 500 gpm from water tank to pump so that water tank apparatus can unload quickly at a fire and return for more water. I f other flows are wanted, these should be specified. One of the major deficiencies in the older fire apparatus was the inadequate piping from tank to pump and the minimum requirements should be enforced. Some rural fire departments also specify that rural tankers have a large gated outlet for rapidly emptying the tank at a fire and carry a portable tank into which the water can be dumped to provide suction for a pumper.

Pumps of less than 500 gpm are generally termed booster pumps and, if wanted, the provisions of Chapter 5 of Standard No. 19 should be specified. Serious consideration should be given to the fact that a standard fire pump only moderately increases the cost of a piece of fire apparatus and may gready enhance the usefulness of the apparatus. On a tanker, the larger pump permits faster loading and unloading of water and also permits the use of the pump in a water supply relay where desirable. The booster pump is only useful for small streams while the standard pump can supply any type of stream needed up to the rated capacity of the pump.

Hose Body A standard hose body on a pumper has a capacity of 1,500 feet

of 2~ - inch double-jacketed fire hose and 400 feet of similar 1 ~= inch hose. On a pumper-ladder truck, the capacity for large hose is reduced to 1,000 feet. With mobile water supply apparatus, the standard hose load is 200 feet of 2~ - i nch hose (mainly for filling the tank) and 400 feet of 1 n - inch fire hose. Normally, on most apparatus, the 1n- inch hose is carried in two compartments to serve as fast attack lines. Many rural fire departments find that addi-

239 w a ~ a TA,','KS 19B-I 1

tional space for 1 ~ - inch hose (up to 1,000 feet) is highly desirable. Some fire departments carry preconnected 1½-inch attack lines across the top of the truck rather than as part of the main hose compartment. Any such special features must be specified.

Where rural pumpers must supply long lines from distant water supplies, it may be desirable to specify 2,000 feet capacity for 2 ½ - inch hose. However, usually this will limit the amount of water that can be carried. Many rural fire departments solve this problem by operating two pieces of apparatus as an attack team. One is chiefly a mobile water carrier with a minimum of fire fighting equipment called for in the Standard, while the other is a pumper with a smaller water tank merely sufficient for an initial attack but with a good hose carrying capacity. Large capacity pumpers may also need more than 1,500 feet of large hose unless separate hose trucks are provided as tenders.

In any ease, it is strongly recommended that for pumpers special provisions be inserted requiring that the compar tment for large hose be partitioned so that two lines may be laid simultaneously. One 2~- inch line only uses a fraction of the pumping capacity of a pumper and once the pump is pumping additional lines must be stretched by hand. With a divided body, at least two lines can be laid simultaneously.

t In addition to the two lines of preconnected 1 ~ - inch hose, many fire departments are equipping pumpers with a short preconnected line of 2~ - inch hose for quickly knocking down fires which are al-

' ready serious when the apparatus arrives. Where desired, the compartment space and hose outlet should be specified. Some tankers also carry a large attack line.

Water Tanks The standard water tank on a pumper is 300 gallons; 150 gallons

where specified for a ladder truck; and 1,000 gallons for mobile water supply apparatus (tankers). I f other sizes are wanted, this must be stated in special provisions. Most chiefs of suburban and rural fire departments now specify a 500-gallon tank for pumpers although where additional hose capacity is more important, a smaller tank may be used if a tanker is also available. I t is very poor practice to overload a pumper with too large a water tank. Under the standard, apparatus with tanks of 800 gallons or larger are classed as mobile water supply apparatus even though they may be equipped with fire pumps to move water. In general, tanks of over 500 gallons are not advisable for pumpers.

Booster Reels

Booster hose and booster reels are optional equipment in the


standard and should be specified where desired. Where specified, the booster reel should have a capacity of not less than 200 feet of 1-inch booster hose. This size hose is heavier than ~ - inch hose but the pressure loss is only a quarter that of the smaller hose at a given flow. It is urged that an electric rewind should be specified for the booster reel in the special provisions.

For many years, it has been a common practice to specify two booster reels on rural apparatus. This practice began when pumps and water tanks were of smaller capacity and I n - inch fire hose was not generally available. Now, most fires which would require two booster lines can be much more quickly and efficiently handled with l ~ - i n c h hose and where provided, the booster hose is used only for very small fires. Thus the purchaser should consider whether the cost of an extra booster reel is warranted or whether the additional money could be better spent on additional pumping capacity or extra fire fighting appliances.

Compartments Compartment space is very important on apparatus, especially

where located in areas where separate ladder or equipment trucks are not provided. The compartments can house masks, resuscitators and rescue equipment, generator and floodlights, smoke ejector and other equipment needed at the scene of a fire or emergency. The number and dimensions of enclosed equipment compartments should be specified. Equipment compartments can be located along the sides fore and aft of the rear wheels and also in the rear under the tank or hose body. The standard calls for lights in the equipment compartments but these should be arranged to operate auto- matically when the compartment doors are opened. As mentioned, a light on the dash to indicate when the doors are open is desirable. Compartment latches should be of flush type. These details should be specified in the special provisions.

The Standard requires that a radio compartment be provided. However, the size and location of this must be indicated and it is very important that suitable shielding be specified so the radio can operate without undue interference. Some fire departments also specify that an additional radio hand set may be installedin a compartment at the pump operator's position and also that a radio loudspeaker be mounted on the apparatus so that messages may be heard by men working away from the apparatus.

Handrails A chrome plated handrail is required at the back end of the hose

body for use by men riding the rear step. Some departments specify additional rails along the sides and at other points on the apparatus.

241 EQUIPMENT 19B-13

Fire departments which are more concerned with appearance of the apparatus (as in parades) rather than utility or which have un- limited funds, often spend considerable sums on additional chrome rails and trim. I t should be kept in mind that such additional rail- ings are rather costly and should not be specified at the expense of items contributing to the fire fighting efficiency of the apparatus as has been done too often. I t is much more desirable to provide a more powerful engine than excessive trim.

Finish of Apparatus Standard No. 19 requires that all exposed surfaces be thoroughly

prepared and painted with "fire depar tment red" unless otherwise specified. Where fire departments want special color schemes, it should be understood that these may materially raise the cost of the apparatus because of the extra work involved in the paint shop. Some fire departments may want to specify the particular shade of red .paint to be used in order to match other apparatus already in serwce. In any event, the manufacturer should be required to furnish the name and number of the paint used and a small con- tainer of matching paint for touch-up purposes as paint is frequently nicked in fire service and use of a small applicator will protect the damaged spot and enhance the appearance of the equipment.

In northern climates where large quantities of road salt are used in the winter, it is desirable to specify that undercoating be provided.

Instructions must be given in the special provisions for the lettering and any gold leaf trim desired. I t is desirable to require that hand lettering be used because transfer or "decal" types of letters do not seem to stand up in fire service use where subjected to ex- tremes of heat and cold.

Make sure that the requirement of the Standard that all exposed surfaces be properly finished and coated is enforced. Failure to paint the inside of the cab or of equipment compartments would not meet the provisions of the Standard.

The Standard requires that all pump and other operating controls be clearly labeled. Some departments also specify that equipment compartments be marked to indicate the principal contents.

Equipment Standard No. 19 specifies basic fire fighting equipment which the

manufacturer is required to furnish with each type of apparatus such as pumpers, mobile water supply trucks, ladder trucks, etc. I t also lists required items which must be carried on each type of apparatus but which the fire department may wish to furnish separately. In many cases, a fire department finds it easier to require the apparatus


manufacturer to furnish this necessary equipment as part o" the purchase. Where desired, this should be indicated in the special provisions of the specifications.

For each type of apparatus, the Standard also includes a list of items of equipment which would be useful and desirable items to carry on the apparatus. As it usually is not possible to tell in advance of the opening of the bids how much money will be available for extra equipment, some fire departments list in special provisions the items of extra equipment which are desired with the notation that the purchaser reserves the right to omit or include these when purchasing the apparatus: This provides some flexibility when working within a specific appropriation and the bidder can provide bids both with and without this extra equipment.

In making up the equipment list for a pumper, it is well to review the equipment lists for ladder trucks and salvage trucks because many of these items of equipment will be useful on pumpers housed in stations where such specialized apparatus is not available.

Where apparatus is to serve in rural areas, the standard recom- mends certain additional equipment which should be included in special provisions. For example, at least 30 feet of suction hose should be carried rather than the standard 20 feet of suction. A 35-foot ladder should be substituted for the standard 24-foot ex- tension ladder. In fact, many cities are replacing their 24-foot ladders on pumpers, as the 35-foot ladder may be a valuable rescue tool on the first arriving pumper. Rural pumpers should carry back-pack tank extinguishers and other brush fire equipment. A supply of forestry hose may be carried and a portable fire pump is recommended. (See NFPA No. 191, Portable Pumping Units for Fire Depar tment Service, and No. 295, Recommendations for Forest, Grass and Brush Fire Control.)

I f fire hose is to be purchased as part of the specification, be sure to specify double-jacketed fire hose meeting the requirements of NFPA Standard No. 196. Fire hose tested and labeled by Under- writers' Laboratories Inc. or Factory Mutual Laboratories meets these requirements. I t is desirable to specify that the Laboratory be asked to furnish a test report showing that each length of hose meets the Standards. The cost of this valuable service is very nominal.

Equipment is extremely important in the over-all efficient operation of a piece of fire apparatus. Be sure that the nozzles meet the requirements of Standard No. 19. A very desirable additional item is a portable turret nozzle which, when operated from the truck or at a remote location, allows one man to direct a powerful stream supplied by several lines of hose. Such nozzles are essential to the utilization of the capacity of the larger pumpers. Also important are smoke ejectors, foam equipment, floodlights, and salvage covers.

S T U D Y I N G T H E PROPOSAI. .~

243 19B-15

Review of Specifications Thoroughly review the specifications you have prepared before

asking for bids. Do a complete job. The insurance rating bureau often is willing to review specifications to see that their requirements are met. In some states, the state fire training agency may be able to help. The final draft should be typed for distribution to prospective bidders. Some communities or fire departments are required by law to advertise for bids on new apparatus. In other cases, copies are furnished manufacturers who may be interested in bidding on the type of apparatus desired.

I t is important to set a date for the formal opening of bids. This date should be far enough in advance for the engineering departments of apparatus concerns to make a detailed study of the specifications and estimate the cost of furnishing the apparatus. At least a month should be allowed. More time may be required if engineering drawings of the proposed apparatus are required.

With competitive bids, it is usually possible to get a more favorable price since all salesmen know that there is genuine competition and that the specifications are not restrictive. In some cases, sales representatives of individual manufacturers are interviewed regarding their proposals before awarding a contract. In some states, law requires that the lowest bid meeting the specificatic, ns be accepted. I t is very important to make certain that manufacturers' proposals meet the specifications because these may include alternate proposals and exceptions. Frequently, these are offered to meet price requirements or because an individual manufacturer may prefer to build apparatus in a way which is standard to that maker. If this does not change the intent of the original specification and the bid is the most favorable, the purchasing committee may accept these amendments with the approval of the fire chief. On the other hand, extreme care should be taken not to allow exceptions which merely cheapen the apparatus so that the manufacturer can submit a lower bid.

Occasionally, if none of the proposals are acceptable due to cost or other features, the purchasing authority may reject all bids and re-advertise based upon the experience gained.

All bidders must clearly understand that the apparatus will be subjected to all performance tests in the Standard. This is an important safeguard against bids based upon underpowered or poorly built units.

Studying the Proposals Thoroughly study the proposals submitted by the various bidders.

Make notes and look for deviations from your specifications. If a

244 19B-16 WRITING FIRE APPARATUS SPECIFICATIONS

municipal purchasing department is involved, have them check the proposals against their standard purchasing procedures. If there is something in a proposal that is not clear, have the salesman clarify this in writing. Discuss the financial arrangements. Be sure to have a stipulated delivery date. Many specifications include a penalty clause including a per diem charge beyond the stipulated delivery date. Obtain a written statement as to method of delivery, whether by rail or over the road. (Acceptance tests should be performed before the apparatus is accepted by the purchaser as meeting the specifications.) Where the apparatus is to be equipped with a fire pump, the manufacturer should be required to furnish with the delivery of the apparatus a copy of certification by Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc., that the pump complies with the requirements of Chapter 3 in NFPA Standard No. 19.

Where the purchase must be approved by a Board of Directors of a volunteer fire department or by a finance committee or other officials of a municipality, the salesmen should be able to verbally describe in simple terms the advantages of having the apparatus built by their companies. The Board should have opportunity to ask questions about the purchase if they have responsibility for ap- proving the contract. But above all, the fire chief should be satisfied.

Awarding the Contract Before signing on the dotted line, make certain that the successful

bidder has a complete and thorough understanding of the specification. If any changes are agreed upon, these should be stated in writing and be signed by both parties. Be sure to have a pc, sitive understanding of every item because this is a much better time to reach an agreement than after delivery of the vehicle. While frequently there may be differences of opinion in a fire department regarding the desirability of various makes of apparatus, it is desirable to have the people who are going to use the equipment satisfied that the apparatus purchased will do the job. When the chief and the purchasing body are satisfied, the contract should be signed, and not before.

Your Obligation The fire department, whether paid or volunteer, municipal or

rural, tax or solicitation supported, has an obligation to the citizens it protects. This fact should be paramount in buying fire apparatus. The first obligation is to provide a fire truck which will do the best possible job. A cheaper, ill-suited truck can be a waste of taxpayers' money. So also is a fire truck designed chiefly for show in parades and public celebrations rather than for fire fighting utility.

Documents

Report of Committee - NFPA218 COMMITTEE ON FIRE DEPARTMENT EQUIPMENT FDE-1 Report of Committee on Fire Department Equipment Walter H. Carter, Chairman, Chief, Lynn Fire Department,