LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT CONTEXT TRAINING PROGRAM
FEBRUARY
LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT CONTEXT TRAINING PROGRAM
POWER EQUIPMENT
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LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT CONTEXT TRAINING PROGRAM
CHAIN SAWS
1. General Information
The following two (2) models of Stihl chain saws used by our Department are:
a. Stihl 038 b. Stihl 044
Both the 038 and 044 models are powered by a 2-cycle gasoline engine. Lubrication of the engines is accomplished by "premixing" the gasoline with a lubricating oil. The Stihl 50:1 lubrication premix used by the Department is available from the warehouse and should be mixed with 1 gallon of gasoline prior to use.
Both saws have a 20" rollermatic bar that are equipped with an automatic chain oiler. To maintain correct chain lubrication, the oil quantity control bolt located on the bottom of the crankshaft should be preset to the maximum feed setting. The carbide chain used with the saws have 33 carbide tipped cutting teeth and 66 drive teeth. Chains must be replaced when three (3) consecutive or six (6) total teeth are damaged or missing.
To check the chain tension, set the run switch to the off position. With a gloved hand, pull the chain along the bar, the chain should feel snug to the bar and will pull with minimal effort.
To adjust the chain tension, the mounting nuts on the guide bar should be finger tight. Hold the bar nose up and turn the guide bar adjuster screw to take out the slack. After making the adjustment, recheck the tension by the same method. On the model 038, the adjuster screw is located in front of the engine block next to the guide bar. On the model 044, the adjuster is located on the side between the bar nuts.
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LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT CONTEXT TRAINING PROGRAM
CHAIN SAWS
2. Daily check
a. Check fuel level. b. Check and fill bar oil reservoir. c. Inspect and clean air filter. d. Inspect and clean cooling fins. e. Inspect and clean drive gear. f. Inspect and clean guide bar and roller tip. g. Inspect and clean chain. (soak chain in 30 wt. oil prior to reinstallation). h. Check chain tension.
3. Starting Procedures
a. Engage the chain brake. b. Set the stop switch to the "on" position. c. Set the choke to the "full" throttle position. d. Set and lock the throttle trigger. e. Anchor the saw firmly and pull the starter cord. f. Once engine starts, release the throttle trigger. g. Adjust the choke back to full open. h. While the engine is running, disengage chain brake saw, check the function of the chain oiler by holding the tip of the guide bar close to the ground or a piece of cardboard. A thin line of oil should appear when operating the saw at full throttle. i. While the engine is running, check the function of the saw chain brake. 1. Push the chain break forward and the chain should stop rotation. 2. Pull the chain brake back towards the handle and the chain should rotate freely.
NOTE: Do not operate the saw at full throttle with the chain brake engaged as it is possible to damage the saw.
4. Stopping procedures
a. Idle the saw to dissipate the heat. b. Switch the control switch to "off" or "stop".
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LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT CONTEXT TRAINING PROGRAM
RATERS ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS
CHAIN SAWS
1. All Department Chain saws are powered by a engine.
A. 2-cycle gasoline
2. What is the "premix" ratio for the Stihl Saw using the special prepackaged oil?
A. 50:1
3. The carbide chain used with the saws have carbide tipped cutting teeth and drive teeth.
A. 33 carbide tipped cutting teeth. B. 66 drive teeth.
4. True or False - To dissipate heat, idling all chain saws prior to stopping is necessary.
A. 50:1
5. What is the size of the chain saw bar?
A. 20" bar
6. The cutting chain on all models must be replaced when are damaged or missing.
A. 3 consecutive or 6 total teeth
7. True or False – Chain tension should be checked with a gloved hand.
A. True
8. Do not operate the saw at full throttle with the engaged as it is possible to damage the saw.
A. Chain Brake
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L0S ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT CONTEXT TRAINING PROGRAM
CHAIN SAW
NAME EMP# DATE
WORK LOCATION BN STATION SHIFT
OBJECTIVE: To answer general information questions about the chain saw.
To verbalize the changing of the saw chain.
To demonstrate chain adjustment and starting the saw including operation of the chain brake.
EQUIPMENT: Chain saw, Equipment pouch and Full turnouts including gloves, goggles and hearing protection.
DESCRIPTION OF EVOLUTION:
Given: Wearing Personal Safety Equipment. Chain saw will be set on the ground.
1. Answer general questions about the chain saw. 2. Verbalize changing a saw chain. 3. Demonstrate chain adjustment. 4. Demonstrate the ability to safety start and operate the saw. 5. Demonstrate the safe use of the chain brake.
INDIVIDUALS NOT MEETING THE INDIVIDUAL SKILLS STANDARD WILL REQUIRE ADDITIONAL TRAINING IN THAT GRILL.
INDIVIDUAL HAS MET THE STANDARD: YES NO COMMENTS:
1. Answer general questions about the saw.
2. Verbalize changing a saw chain.
3. Demonstrate chain adjustment.
4. Demonstrate starting the saw and operating the chain brake.
5. Demonstrate safe operating procedures throughout the evolution.
RATER
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L0S ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT CONTEXT TRAINING PROGRAM
ROTARY SAWS
1. General Information
The two (2) brands of rotary saws used by our Department are: a. The Partner K-12 Series
b. The Homelite XL and MP Series
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L0S ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT CONTEXT TRAINING PROGRAM
ROTARY SAWS
The Partner K-12 Series differs from the Homelite Series in engine size and drive belt tension adjustment although the control features are similar.
Both the Partner K-12 series and Homelite series are powered by a 2-cycle gasoline engine. Lubrication of the engines is accomplished by "premixing" the gasoline with a lubricating oil. The Stihl 50:1 lubrication premix used by the Department is available from the warehouse and should be mixed with 1 gallon of gasoline prior to use.
Both saws use a "V" type drive belt that needs no lubrication. These belts should be checked daily and replaced when noticeably cracked and/or worn.
The drive belt on the Partner K-12 Series drive belt is maintained by a pressure spring. To set the tension, slightly loosen the bolts which secure the cutting head and the belt guard. Turn the tensioning screw located on the mounting arm clockwise to set the proper tension and re-tighten the bolts that hold the cutting head.
The drive belt tension on the Homelite XL and MP series is adjusted by loosening the drive-case cover nuts until finger tight (the arm must be free to move). Turn the adjusting cam so that it contacts the drive-case cover and moves the arm forward. Then turn the cam locking screw clockwise to lock the cam in place and re-tighten the drive- case cover nuts securely.
Drive belts should be tight enough so that it does not slip at full throttle if the wheel becomes bound while cutting.
Both types of rotary saws have a 1’ arbor and use four (4) types of 12" cutting blades. a. Saw tooth blade with carbide tips designed for cutting wood and lightweight concrete roofs (blade shall be replaced when three (3) or more teeth are damaged and/or missing). b. Abrasive disk #700-100 designed for cutting glass or masonry only. c. Abrasive disk #700-150 designed for cutting masonry only. d. Abrasive disk designed for cutting metal.
Note: Some units are supplied with diamond-tipped disks for USAR applications.
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LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT CONTEXT TRAINING PROGRAM
ROTARY SAWS
2. Daily check a. Check and fill fuel tank. b. Check and clean air filter. c. Check and clean cooling fins. d. Check and adjust drive belt. e. Check and select proper cutting disk. f. Check and adjust cutting disk guard. g. Check and tighten all loose nuts. h. Change fuel every two (2) months. i. Check and change spark plug every six (6) months. j. Change air filter every six (6) months.
3. Starting the Partner K-12 Series a. Depress the compression release valve located on the top or left side of the engine. b. Push the top control to the forward or run position. c. Pull the choke control backwards to the closed position. d. Set the throttle trigger by pressing the throttle catch on the side of the handle. e. Secure the saw and pull the starter cord. f. When the engine starts, release the starter cord. g. Adjust the choke when the engine warms up.
4. Stopping the Partner K-12 Series a. Idle the engine to dissipate the engine heat. b. Pull the stop control backwards or push the red stop button.
5. Starting the Homelite XL Series a. Set the stop switch to the "on" position. b. Pull choke outward to the full closed position. c. Set throttle trigger. d. Secure the saw and pull the starter cord. e. When the engine starts, release the throttle trigger. f. Adjust the choke when the engine warms up.
6. Stopping the Homelite XL Series a. Idle the engine to dissipate the heat. b. Set the stop switch to the "off" position.
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LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT CONTEXT TRAINING PROGRAM
ROTARY SAW
NAME EMP# DATE
WORK LOCATION BN STATION SHIFT
OBJECTIVE: To answer general information questions about the rotary saw.
To verbalize the changing of the saw blade.
To demonstrate belt adjustment and starting the saw.
EQUIPMENT: Rotary saw, equipment pouch and full turnouts including gloves, goggles and hearing protection.
DESCRIPTION OF EVOLUTION:
Given: Wearing Personal Safety Equipment, rotary saw will be set on the ground.
1. Answer general question about the rotary saw. 2. Verbalize changing a saw blade. 3. Demonstrate belt adjustment. 4. Demonstrate the ability to safety start and operate the saw.
INDIVIDUALS NOT MEETING THE INDIVIDUAL SKILLS STANDARD WILL REQUIRE ADDITIONAL TRAINING IN THAT SKILL.
INDIVIDUAL HAS MET THE STANDARD: YES NO COMMENTS:
1. Answer general questions about the saw.
2. Verbalize changing a saw blade.
3. Demonstrate belt adjustment.
4. Demonstrate starting the saw.
5. Demonstrate safe operation procedures throughout the evolution.
RATER 11
LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT CONTEXT TRAINING PROGRAM
RATERS ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS
ROTARY SAWS
1. All Department Rotary saws are powered by a engine.
A. 2-cycle gasoline
2. What is the "premix" ratio for the Partner K-12 Series saws?
A. 50:1
3. What is the "premix" ratio for the Homelite XL Series saws?
A. 50:1
4. What is used to lubricate the "V" type drive belt?
A. none
5. The tension on the Partner K-12 Series saw drive belt is maintained by a
A. pressure spring
6. The cutting disks for the Partner K-12 Series saws use a size arbor.
A. 1"
7. The cutting disks for the Homelite XL Series saws use a size arbor.
A. 1"
8. How often should rotary saw fuel be changed?
A. every 2 months
9. How often should the air filter on the rotary saw be changed?
A. Every 6 months (maximum)
10. Name the cutting disks used with the rotary saws.
A. Saw tooth blade with carbide tips, concrete and metal 12
LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT CONTEXT TRAINING PROGRAM
GASOLINE POWERED SMOKE BLOWER
1. General Information
The gasoline powered smoke blower used by the County of Los Angeles Fire Department is the Model DS-3P4 manufactured by Unifire Incorporated.
The Model DS-3P4 weights 65 pounds, produces 15,000 CFM at full throttle and is powered by a Honda 5.5, 4 cycle engine which uses regular lead-free gasoline.
The blower is equipped with 4 blade power props that are 18” long and constructed of laminated hard rock maple or synthetic reinforced carbon. Both props may be tilted -10 degrees to + 20 degrees.
2. Daily Checks
a. Check & fill fuel (regular lead-free only).
b. Check & fill oil, (SAE 30, detergent oil only). (NOTE: A flashing "oil alert lamp" indicates low oil levels and the engine will not start.)
c. Check air filter & cooling fans.
d. Check & tighten all loose nuts, bolts and screws.
f. Check blades for cracks, splitting and nicks. Clean as necessary.
g. Check stand for cracks, operation of prop angle adjustment and missing rubber feet.
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L0S ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT CONTEXT TRAINING PROGRAM
GASOLINE POWERED SMOKE BLOWER
h. Check blade shroud for looseness.
i. One (1) spark plug and air filter SHALL be kept with the blower at all times.
3. Starting Procedures
a. Open the fuel valve.
b. Set the choke to closed position (if manual choke).
c. Set the stop switch to the run position.
d. Set the throttle to the start/fast run position.
e. Ensure the fan blade is clear to rotate.
f. Check for loose debris that could be affected by the blower.
g. Pull starter cord. Do not let cord snap back into machine.
h. Adjust throttle to desired engine speed
4. Stopping Procedures
a. Set throttle to slow/idle position.
b. Idle for at least 2 minutes to dissipate heat of engine.
c. Set the stop switch to the off position.
d. Close the fuel valve.
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L0S ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT CONTEXT TRAINING PROGRAM
GASOLINE POWERED SMOKE BLOWER
5. General Maintenance
Every Two Months
a. Change fuel.
b. Check & clean fuel sediment cap.
Every Six Months
a. Change oil.
b. Check and clean spark arrester.
c. Check and change spark plug.
d. Clean air filter, (more often in dusty conditions).
6. SAFETY
a. Keep all lose materials away from blowers, as it can be sucked through the blower and cause injuries or damage.
b. Engine should be cooled for at least 3 minutes before refueling.
c. Caution should be used when carrying blowers after operation as exhaust may cause burn injuries.
d. Evaluate fan blade for damage after every use.
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LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT CONTEXT TRAINING PROGRAM
SMOKE BLOWERS
NAME EMP# DATE
WORK LOCATION BN STATION SHIFT
OBJECTIVE: To answer general questions about the operation and maintenance of the smoke blowers that are carried on individuals first alarm units.
To demonstrate the ability to operate the smoke blowers safely and efficiently.
EQUIPMENT: Unifire smoke blower and full Personal Safety Equipment including goggles and hearing protection.
DESCRIPTION OF EVOLUTION:
Given: Wearing Personal Safety Equipment, smoke blowers will be set on the ground ready to operate.
1. Answer questions about the operation and maintenance of smoke blowers.
2. Demonstrate the ability to safely start and operate the smoke blower.
INDIVIDUALS NOT MEETING THE INDIVIDUAL SKILLS STANDARD WILL REQUIRE ADDITIONAL TRAINING IN THAT SKILL.
INDIVIDUAL HAS MET THE STANDARD: YES NO COMMENTS:
1. Answer general questions about the blower(s).
2. Check blade
3. Set Choke
4. Fuel valve "on"
5. Stop switch to "on" position
6. Adjust throttle
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L0S ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT CONTEXT TRAINING PROGRAM
INDIVIDUALS NOT MEETING THE INDIVIDUAL SKILLS STANDARD WILL REQUIRE ADDITIONAL TRAINING IN THAT SKILL.
INDIVIDUAL HAS MET THE STANDARD: YES NO COMMENTS:
7. Start blower
8. Operate blower
9. Reduce throttle
10. Shut off engine
11. Close fuel valve
RATER
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LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT CONTEXT TRAINING PROGRAM
RATERS ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS
GASOLINE POWERED SMOKE BLOWERS
1. What is the engine size and C.F.M of the Unifire blower?
A. Honda 5.5, 4 cycle engine – 15,000 CMF.
2. What type of fuel does the four cycle engine use?
A. Unleaded gasoline only
3. How long should the engine be cooled prior to fueling?
A. 3 Minutes
4. How often do you change the engine oil?
A. Every 6 months
5. How often do you clean the air filter?
A. 6 months, more often in dusty conditions
6. How often should the fan blades be evaluated?
A. Daily and after every use
7. The blades of the Unifire DS-3P4 may be tilted to what degrees?
A. -10 degrees to + 20 degrees
8. A flashing “oil alert lamp” indicates what?
A. Low oil levels (And the engine will not start)
9. How long are the blades on the Unifire DS-3P4?
A. 18” long
18 L0S ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT BASIC SKILLS TRAINING PROGRAM
HYDRAULIC RESCUE SYSTEM
1. General Information
The hydraulic rescue system currently used by the County of Los Angeles Fire Department is manufactured by Amkus Incorporated and includes 4 separate components.
a. Model GH2S-XL Power Unit
The GH2S-XL weights 94 pounds and is powered by a Honda 5.5, 4 cycle engine that uses regular lead-free gasoline. It has two high pressure (10,500 psi), 2-stage pumping systems that operate two 2-way, 2 position selector valves which allow two tools to be used simultaneously. The power unit also holds 2 gallons of a non-toxic mineral based hydraulic fluid that is used to operate the spreaders, cutters and rams.
b. Model AMK-30CX Spreader
The AMK-30CX spreader weighs 47 lbs and a width of spread of 32". The tool also has a spreading force of 17,000 psi and a closing force of 14,500 lbs. 19 LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT BASIC SKILLS TRAINING PROGRAM
HYDRAULIC RESCUE SYSTEM
c. Model AMK-25 Heavy Duty Cutter
The Model AMK-25 heavy duty cutter weights 30 lbs., has a maximum cutting force of 60,000 lbs. and a cutter opening of 4.1 inches at the tips of the blades.
d. Model AMK-40R Push-Pull Ram
The Model AMK-40R Push-Pull Ram weights 33 lbs. and has a maximum pushing force of 30,600 lbs. and a pulling force of 14,400 lbs. The closed length of the AMK-40R is 25 inches and fully extends to 40 inches.
NOTE: All Amkus spreaders, cutters and rams are operated using a twist grip control valve. Twist to the right to open. Twist to the left to close. Release the control and it will spring to the center position stopping the tool, (dead man feature).
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HYDRAULIC RESCUE SYSTEM
e. Model HP101-STD Hand Pump
The Model HP101-STD Hand Pump weights 32 lbs. and operates at a maximum pressure of 10,500 lbs. The hand pump also holds ½ gallon of a non-toxic mineral based hydraulic fluid which is used to operate the spreaders, cutters and rams.
2. Daily Check
a. One (1) spare spark plug and air filter SHALL be kept with the power unit at all times.
b. Check oil level.
c. Check hydraulic fluid in reservoir.
d. Check and fill fuel tank.
e. Check and clean air filter.
f. Check hydraulic fittings for excessive wear and possible leaks.
g. Check hydraulic hoses for abrasions and/or bulges.
h. Check and tighten all loose nuts, bolts and screws.
i. Attach and check operation of each tool.
j. Clean the tool with mild soap and water and spray with a silicone based lubricant.
21 LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT BASIC SKILLS TRAINING PROGRAM
HYDRAULIC RESCUE SYSTEM
3. Starting Procedures
a. Connect the hydraulic hoses from the power unit to the tool selected.
b. Set the control valve to the neutral position.
c. Set the throttle control to the fast/start position. The choke is automatic.
d. Pull the starter cord.
e. Operate at full throttle only.
4. Stopping Procedures
a. Idle the engine to dissipate the heat of the engine.
b. Set the throttle lever to the stop position.
c. Do not wrap hose around a " hot " engine or exhaust.
6. Storage
a. To prevent damage to the O- ring and seals when storing the spreaders, leave a small gap between the tips.
b. When storing the cutters, place them in a slightly overlapped position, to prevent snagging the tips on objects.
c. When storing the rams, close the ram fully and then open ¼” to release pressure off of the cylinder.
7. Safety
a. It is Mandatory that all personnel involved in the operation wear personal protection equipment including helmet and goggles.
b. If a victim is involved, their protection, safety and welfare shall be paramount at all times during the extrication.
c. As one member operates the tool, a second member shall provide “back up" for the operator.
d. When operating the tool all unnecessary personnel shall be out of the operational area (a minimum of 10 feet).
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HYDRAULIC RESCUE SYSTEM f. One 1 ¾” hose line shall be deployed during all vehicle extrication operations. g. Spreading operations are the most dangerous. Do not stand directly behind the operator or against the object being removed (i.e. a vehicle door). h. Cutting operations are also dangerous due to the pressures involved. Be alert of flying pieces of metal during this operation.
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LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT BASIC SKILLS TRAINING PROGRAM
HYDRAULIC RESCUE SYSTEMS
NAME EMP# DATE
WORK LOCATION BN STATION SHIFT
OBJECTIVE: To answer general questions about the operations of the hydraulic rescue systems.
To demonstrate the ability to operate the hydraulic rescue systems tools in a safe efficient manner.
EQUIPMENT: Personal protective equipment. Amkus hydraulic rescue system
DESCRIPTION OF EVOLUTION:
Given: Member in personal protective equipment. Amkus hydraulic rescue system(s) ready to operate.
1. Answer general questions about the operations and safety precautions of the Amkus hydraulic rescue systems.
2. Operate one of the Amkus hydraulic rescue systems by starting the engine and operating the tools.
3. Return the tools to readiness.
INDIVIDUALS NOT MEETING THE INDIVIDUAL SKILLS STANDARD WILL REQUIRE ADDITIONAL TRAINING IN THAT SKILL.
INDIVIDUAL HAS MET THE STANDARD: YES NO COMMENTS:
1. Answer general questions about the operations and safety precautions of the Amkus hydraulic rescue systems.
2. Connect hydraulic hoses and desired tool.
3. Start engine per procedures.
4. Return system to readiness.
RATER
24 L0S ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT BASIC SKILLS TRAINING PROGRAM
RATERS ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS HYDRAULIC RESCUE SYSTEM
1. What is the "Dead Mans" control and how does it operate?
A. A control that springs twist grip valve back to the neutral or off position when pressure is released from the control.
2. What materials are used to clean the hydraulic tools? After cleaning, what is used to protect and lubricate the tools?
A. Mild soap and water. Spray with a silicone lubricant.
3. What type of fuel is used in the Amkus GH2S-XL power unit?
A. Regular unleaded gasoline.
4. How often do you check the hydraulic hoses?
A. Daily and after each use.
5. How often do you inspect the tools for cracks and proper operation?
A. Daily and after each use.
6. All unnecessary personnel should be kept at least feet from the hydraulic tools when they are being operated.
A. 10 feet
7. Who is responsible for the safety and welfare of a trapped victim while using the hydraulic rescue tools?
A. All personnel involved in the incident.
8. What is the operating pressure of the Amkus GH2S-XL power unit?
A. 10,500 psi.
9. What shall be deployed at all vehicle extrication operations?
A. One 1 ¾” hose line.
10. What position must the control valve on the Amkus GH2S-XL be in prior to starting ?
A. The neutral position.