I. INTRODUCTION
A. Purpose: To establish a policy for Department approved uniforms and accessories. These regulations explain very explicitly who shall wear, what to wear, how to wear, and when to wear Department uniforms and/or accessories.
B. Scope: These instructions apply to all personnel who wear a uniform or exercise at a Department facility.
C. Author: The specifications and manner of wear for all Department uniforms shall be prescribed by the Fire Chief. A committee, designated by the Emergency Operations Chief Deputy, and comprised of one member from each bureau, shall be responsible for periodic review of these regulations.
D. Definitions:
1. Class “A” Chief Officer Dress Uniform: Dress uniform for sworn chief officers. (ACO) Optional for fire captains.
2. Class “A” Rank and File Dress Uniform: Dress uniform for sworn personnel who are not chief officers. (ARF)
3. Class “A” Non-Sworn Optional Dress Uniform: Optional Dress uniform for non-sworn personnel (ANS)
4. Class “C” Work Uniform: Work uniform for sworn personnel.
5. Class “D” Work Uniform: Work uniform for professional staff as approved by collective bargaining and/or the Fire Chief.
6. Office Uniform: Standard uniform for staff positions that require a uniform.
7. Physical Fitness Attire: Attire required for employees to utilize Department facilities to exercise. Physical fitness attire is optional for uniformed employees as the Class “C” uniform is the official exercise attire. Physical fitness attire is an employee expense.
11-08-13 1 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy II. RESPONSIBILITY
A. Managers/Supervisors shall read, understand, adhere to, and enforce this policy. It is incumbent on managers/supervisors to ensure personnel within their subordinate chain of command conform to the uniform policy.
B. Managers/Supervisors shall inspect the condition of their subordinates’ uniforms on a routine basis.
C. Uniform personnel shall be responsible for compliance with this policy.
III. POLICY
A. Variation and/or modification of these regulations are prohibited without exception. No other uniform items shall be worn on duty.
B. The wearing of any Department uniform, or any part thereof, for personnel gain, benefit, or in a manner that reflects poorly upon the Department is prohibited.
C. The wearing of any Department uniform while off duty is prohibited unless approved in advance by the jurisdictional deputy chief.
D. Department personnel who visit or work at Department business offices, whether on duty or off, shall either wear the required uniform for their position, or wear clothing that reflects the professional, business-like atmosphere of the office. Examples of inappropriate clothing include, but are not limited to, shorts, tank tops, sandals, denim, T-shirts, etc.
E. New employees shall acquire proper uniforms and accessories within 30 days after employment.
F. Employees who are promoted shall acquire proper uniforms within 30 days after appointment.
G. The uniform allowance shall be used annually to purchase uniforms.
H. Uniforms shall be inspected daily by supervisors and quarterly during the battalion chief line-up inspections.
11-08-13 2 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy I. Uniforms represent the professionalism of the Department and shall be neat, clean, pressed, and worn with pride and distinction. Uniforms that are torn, faded, or in disrepair shall not be worn and must be replaced as per approved replacement policies. Department patches shall be removed prior to disposal of uniform shirts/jackets. Faded or worn patches shall be cut up and discarded.
J. Employees shall not wear or carry a paging device, audio device, headphones, cell phone, or other communication device, unless authorized by their supervisor.
K. Employees shall not wear any tools, knives, keys, or accessories on Department uniforms unless authorized by their supervisor.
L. Physical Fitness Attire – Optional exercise attire is approved for uniformed personnel and is required for professional staff when exercising at Department approved facilities. Personnel should be response ready when traveling to or from the exercise site.
M. Optional clothing items will be at the employee’s expense and not purchased by the Department.
N. Patches – When ordering uniforms, employees shall specify the patch to the vendor. Work uniforms will have the standard Department patch unless otherwise identified. Patches shall be worn as listed under “position specific” in this policy. Department patches are available from uniform vendors. If the vendor does not have the appropriate patch, it can be obtained through the chain of command or ordered through procurement. No patches may be placed on personal protective equipment (e.g., wildland jackets and turn-out coats/pants).
1. When employees change assignments or qualifications, they shall replace the patch with the appropriate patch for their current qualification patch position within ten (10) days.
O. Approved Uniforms – Employees listed below are approved to wear Department uniforms. Specific detail regarding wearing the uniform is listed in the Appendix I and II. The routine work uniform is bold, unless otherwise approved by immediate supervision.
11-08-13 3 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy 1. EXECUTIVE OFFICE
Executive
Item# Position Type of Uniform 0233 Fire Chief Class ACO, C, Office 0220 Chief Deputy Class ACO, C, Office 0219 Deputy Chief Class ACO, C, Office
Position Specific:
Work Uniform: (Section IV, A and D)
Optional Items: (Section IV, H)
Issue/Replacement: (Section IV, I, J, and K)
Patches: Standard Department shoulder patch
Employee Services Section / Executive Support Division
Item # Position Type of Uniform 0208 Battalion Chief Class ACO, C, Office 0205 Fire Captain Class ARF, C, Office 8243 Student Professional Class D Worker 8242 Student Worker Class D
Position Specific:
Work Uniform: (Section IV, A, B, D, and E)
Optional items: (Section IV, H)
Issue/Replacement: (Section IV, I, J, and K)
Patches: Standard Department shoulder patch
Fitness for Life Program
Item # Position Type of Uniform 0205 Fire Captain Class ARF, C, Office
Position Specific:
Work Uniform: (Section IV, B and D)
11-08-13 4 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy
Optional Items: (Section IV, H)
Issue/Replacement: (Section IV, I, J, and K)
Patches: Standard Department shoulder patch
Copy Center / Mailroom
Item # Position Type of Uniform 7575 Printer I Class D 1138 Intermediate Clerk Class D 8242 Student Worker Class D
Position Specific:
Work Uniform: (Section IV, E)
Optional Items: (Section IV, H)
Issue/Replacement: (IV, J, K)
Patches: Standard Department shoulder patch
2. ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES BUREAU
Pacoima Warehouse
Item # Position Type of Uniform 6051 Heavy Truck Driver Class D 6049 Medium Truck Driver Class D 2329 Warehouse Worker Aid Class D 2331, 2, 3 Warehouse Worker I, II, III Class D
Position Specific:
Work Uniform: (Section IV, E)
Optional Items: (Section IV, H)
Issue/Replacement: (IV, J and K)
Patches: Standard Department shoulder patch
11-08-13 5 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy 3. LEADERSHIP AND PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS BUREAU
Item # Position Type of Uniform 0219 Deputy Chief Class ACO, C, Office 0208 Battalion Chief Class ACO, C, Office 0205 Fire Captain Class ARF, C, Office 0201 Fire Fighter Specialist Class ARF, C, Office 8242 Student Worker Class D
Position Specific:
Work Uniform: (Section IV, A and D)
Optional Items: (Section IV, H)
Issue/Replacement: (Section IV, I, J, and K)
Patches: Standard Department shoulder patch
4. PREVENTION SERVICES BUREAU
Item # Position Type of Uniform 0219 Deputy Chief Class ACO, C, Office
Fire Prevention Division
Item # Position Type of Uniform 0217 Assistant Fire Chief Class ACO, C, Office 3436 Senior Civil Engineer Class ARF, Office 0208 Battalion Chief Class ACO, C, Office 0205 Fire Captain Class ARF, C, Office 0201 Fire Fighter Specialist Class ARF, C, Office 3771 Fire Permit Technician Class D, Office 3777 Supervising Fire Class D, Office Prevention Engineer 3780 Fire Prevention Engineer Class D, Office 3772, 3 Fire Prevention Class D, Office Engineering Assistant I & II
11-08-13 6 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy Position Specific:
Work Uniform: (Section IV, A, B, D, and E)
Optional Items: (Section IV, H) Item 3436 may wear a business suit.
Optional Dress Uniform: The optional dress uniform may be purchased by professional staff. It consists of shined black shoes, black socks, dark navy blue pants (optional skirt for females), matching long sleeve shirt, black belt with silver LACoFD buckle, a black tie, and a silver metallic nameplate with blue lettering.
Issue/Replacement: (Section IV, I, J, and K)
Patches: Standard Department shoulder patch
Forestry Division
Item # Position Type of Uniform 0336 Chief, Forestry Division Class ACO, C, Office 0335 Assistant Chief, Forestry Class ACO, C, Office 0331 Deputy Forester Class ARF, C 0328 Forestry Assistant Class ARF, C 0326 Forestry Technician Class ARF, C
Position Specific:
Work Uniform: (Section IV, A, B, D, and E)
Optional Items: (Section IV, H) All items in this series may wear the black Department approved brush fire fighting work boot while conducting field inspections, or completing work projects. Additionally, all items in this series may wear polished black dress shoes with the Class “C” uniform while in an office environment. All items are approved to wear the Department approved ball cap or sun hat while conducting fieldwork, or attending informal public events.
Issue/Replacement: (Section IV, I, J, and K)
Patches: Department approved Forestry shoulder patch
11-08-13 7 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy Health Haz Mat Division
Item # Position Type of Uniform 4405 Chief, Health Haz Mat Class ACO, C, Office 4406 Haz Mat Control Manager Class ACO, C, Office 4403 Supervising Haz Mat Class ARF, C, Office Specialist 4402 Haz Mat Specialist III Class ARF, C, Office 4401 Haz Mat Specialist II Class ARF, C, Office 4400 Haz Mat Specialist I Class ARF, C, Office 8242 Student Worker Class D
Position Specific:
Work Uniform: (Section IV, A, B, D, and E)
Optional Items: (Section IV, H)
Issue/Replacement: (Section IV, I, J, and K)
Patch: Department approved Health Haz Mat shoulder patch
5. SPECIAL SERVICES BUREAU
Item # Position Type of Uniform 0219 Deputy Chief Class ACO, C, Office
Fleet Services Division
Item # Position Type of Uniform 7475 Chief, Fire Fleet Services Class ANS, Office 7476 Assistant Chief Fleet Class ANS, Office Services 6546 Senior Electronic Class D, Optional Polo Communication Installer 6545 Electronic Communication Class D, Optional Polo Installer 7473 Senior Fire Equipment Class D, Optional Polo Mechanic 7472 Fire Equipment Mechanic Class D, Optional Polo 7663 Senior Sheet Metal Worker Class D, Optional Polo 7662 Sheet Metal Worker Class D, Optional Polo 6610 Equipment Maintenance Class D, Optional Polo Worker 6051 Heavy Truck Driver Class D, Optional Polo 8242 Student Worker Class D
11-08-13 8 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy
Position Specific:
Optional Items: Items 7475 and 7476 may wear a business suit with a tie in lieu of a uniform. Item numbers 7475, 7476, 7473, 6545, 6610, 7472, 6051, 6546, 7663, and 7662 may wear a navy blue polo work shirt with an embroidered Department logo on the left chest, and an embroidered surname on the right chest. The division manager shall ensure all polo shirts are of the same type and color. Polo shirts shall be replaced once faded or damaged.
Issue/Replacement: (Section IV, I, J, and K)
Patches: Department approved Mechanics patch on the left shoulder
Construction and Maintenance Division
Item # Position Type of Uniform 6659 Chief, Construction and Class ANS, Optional Polo Maintenance Division 6266 Carpenter Supervisor Class D, Optional Polo 6258 Senior Carpenter Class D, Optional Polo 6257 Carpenter Class D, Optional Polo 6480 Electrician Supervisor Class D, Optional Polo 6472 Senior Electrician Class D, Optional Polo 6471 Electrician Class D, Optional Polo 6616 Equipment Maintenance Class D, Optional Polo Supervisor 6613 Senior Equipment Class D, Optional Polo Maintenance Worker 6610 Equipment Maintenance Worker Class D, Optional Polo 6607 Equipment Maintenance Helper Class D, Optional Polo 6492 Electro-Mechanic Class D, Optional Polo 7275 Plumber Supervisor Class D, Optional Polo 7270 Senior Plumber Class D, Optional Polo 7269 Plumber Class D, Optional Polo 6625 General Maintenance Class D, Optional Polo Supervisor 6622 Senior General Class D, Optional Polo Maintenance Worker 6619 General Maintenance Class D, Optional Polo 0354 Grounds Maintenance Class D, Optional Polo Worker II 6112 Senior Welder Class D, Optional Polo 6110 Welder Class D, Optional Polo 6352 Metal Worker Helper Class D, Optional Polo
11-08-13 9 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy Position Specific: Work Uniform: (Section IV, B and E) Work boots are provided for all items in this series.
Optional Items: Item 6659 may wear a business suit in lieu of a uniform.
Issue/Replacement: (Section IV, I, J, K)
Shoulder Patch: Standard Department shoulder patch
Command and Control Division
Item # Position Type of Uniform 0217 Assistant Fire Chief Class ACO, C, Office 0208 Battalion Chief Class ACO, C, Office 0205 Fire Captain Class ARF, C, Office 2437 Head Fire Dispatcher Class D, ANS 2434 Supervising Fire Dispatcher Class D, ANS 2435 Fire Dispatcher Specialist Class D, ANS 2433 Fire Dispatcher Class D, ANS
Position Specific:
Work Uniform: (Section IV, A, B, D, and E); Current collar insignias for items 2434 and 2437 include 1 bugle and 2 bugles respectively.
Optional Items: (Section IV, H) Collared sweatshirt with approved patch and insignias. Dark navy blue cardigan sweaters are also approved for wear in lieu of the Department issued work jacket.
Optional Class ANS Dress Uniform: The optional dress uniform that may be purchased by professional staff consists of shined black shoes, black socks, dark navy blue poly/cotton pants (optional skirt for females), and a matching long sleeve shirt, a black belt with silver LACoFD buckle, and a black tie.
Issue/Replacement: (Section IV, I, J, and K)
Patches: Items 2433, 2434, 2435, and 2437 shall wear the approved dispatch/communications shoulder patch on the optional dress and Class “D” uniform.
11-08-13 10 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy Position Specific:
Work Uniform: (Section IV, E)
Optional Items: (Section IV, H)
Issue/Replacement: (Section IV, I, J, and K)
Patches: Approved Dispatch/Communications shoulder patch
6. EMERGENCY OPERATIONS
Technical Services Division
Item # Position Type of Uniform 0217 Assistant Fire Chief Class ACO, C, Office 0208 Battalion Chief Class ACO, C, Office 0205 Fire Captain Class ARF, C, Office 0201 Fire Fighter Specialist Class ARF, C, Office
Position Specific:
Work Uniform: (Section IV, A, B, and D)
Optional Items: (Section IV, H)
Issue/Replacement: (Section IV, I, J, and K)
Patches: Standard Department shoulder patch
Training Services Section
Item # Position Type of Uniform 0208 Battalion Chief Class ACO, C, Office 0205 Fire Captain Class ARF, C, Office 0201 Fire Fighter Specialist Class ARF, C, Office 8242 Student Worker Class D
Position Specific:
Work Uniform: (Section IV, A, B, D, and E)
Optional Items: (Section IV, H)
Issue/Replacement: (Section IV, I, J, and K)
11-08-13 11 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy Patches: Standard Department shoulder patch
Grants Unit
Item # Position Type of Uniform 0208 Battalion Chief Class ACO, C, Office
Position Specific:
Work Uniform: (Section IV, A and D)
Optional Items: (Section IV, H)
Issue/Replacement: (Section IV, I, J, and K)
Patches: Standard Department shoulder patch
Homeland Security Section
Item # Position Type of Uniform 0208 Battalion Chief Class ACO, C, Office 0205 Fire Captain Class ARF, C, Office 0201 Fire Fighter Specialist Class ARF, C, Office
Position Specific:
Work Uniform: (Section IV, A and D)
Optional Items: (Section IV, H)
Issue/Replacement: (Section IV, I, J, and K)
Patches: Standard Department shoulder patch
Emergency Medical Services Section
Item # Positions Type of Uniform 0208 Battalion Chief Class ACO, C, Office 0205 Fire Captain Class ARF, C, Office 4597 Senior EMS Program Head Class D 5216 Senior Nursing Instruction Class D
Position Specific:
Work Uniform: (Section IV, A, B, D, and E)
11-08-13 12 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy Optional Items: (Section IV, H) Item 4597 may wear suit in lieu of a uniform.
Issue/Replacement: (Section IV, I, J, and K)
Patch: Field nurse shoulder patch is required on left sleeve of uniform.
7. EMERGENCY OPERATIONS (FIELD)
Item # Position Type of Uniform 0219 Deputy Chief Class ACO, C, Office 0217 Assistant Fire Chief Class ACO, C, Office 0208 Battalion Chief Class ACO, C 0205 Fire Captain Class ARF, C 0201 Fire Fighter Specialist Class ARF, C 0199 Fire Fighter Class ARF, C 9316 Patrol Fire Fighter Class C 9318 Call Fire Fighter Supervisor Class C 9302 Call Fire Fighter Class C 6049 Medium Truck Driver Class D 8242 Student Worker Class D
Position Specific:
Work Uniform: (Section IV, A, B, D, and E)
Optional Items: (Section IV, H) The Department recognizes that some of the regions we serve have weather extremes. To accommodate employee safety and comfort during inclement and seasonal weather, the following options are approved to wear at the discretion of the supervisor: all weather navy blue (black for chief officers) jacket, Department patch on left shoulder is optional, dark navy blue fold-over knit cap, long sleeve Nomex work shirt, collared sweatshirt, and cold weather gloves.
The optional dress uniform may be purchased by call fire fighters in items 9302, 9318, and 9316. It consists of shined black shoes, black socks, and dark navy blue Nomex pants with a matching long sleeve shirt, a black belt with silver LACoFD buckle, a black tie, a silver metallic nameplate and a cloth badge.
When not visible to the public or driving a Department vehicle, the blue short sleeve V-neck or optional physical fitness T-shirt (black for chief officers) may be worn without the uniform shirt.
Short or long sleeve blue work jackets may be worn over the T-shirts when personal protective equipment is not required or indicated. This applies to Rank and File personnel only.
11-08-13 13 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy When operating in a rainy environment that does not warrant specialized safety gear such as turnouts, rain gear is approved. The approved rain gear consists of a retro-reflective, fluorescent yellow-green parka with matching pants (if desired) that have been specially ordered and constructed by the manufacturer for the Department and are available through the Fire Fighters’ Association.
Department approved baseball style work caps, black for chief officers, and dark navy blue for all others, are allowed at the discretion of the supervisor. Ball caps may be worn during public activities such as while conducting inspections, or attending a public event.
Optional Items for Specialized Positions:
Arson: While conducting arson investigations, Arson investigators are approved to wear the BDU style dark navy blue pants with the approved charcoal grey polo shirt with cloth or silk-screened badge, and embroidered name.
Fire Boat: Fire Boat personnel may wear only dark blue colored deck shoes with their Class C work uniform while operating the vessel. Regular work boots shall be worn while in quarters.
Issue/Replacement: (Section IV, I, J, and K)
Cloth Badge: Items 9302, 9316, and 9318 will wear approved silver cloth or silk screened badges on the left chest of the uniform shirt.
Patches: All fire fighters, fire fighter specialists, and fire captains shall have the blue standard Department shoulder patch sewn on all blue work jackets. Blue Nomex work shirts will either have the standard blue Department shoulder patch, a Department approved qualification patch, or a Department approved assignment patch (Appendix B7.6 and B7.7) sewn on the left shoulder sleeve.
The black standard Department shoulder patch shall be worn on all chief officer black Nomex work uniform shirts and all Class “A” Dress Uniform coats. Chief Officers shall not wear qualification patches or assignment patches on their uniforms.
Air and Wildland Division
Item # Position Type of Uniform 0217 Assistant Fire Chief Class ACO, C, Office
11-08-13 14 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy Air Operations Section
Item # Position Type of Uniform 0208 Battalion Chief Class ACO, C, Office 0215 Chief, Air Operations, Fire Class ACO, C, Office Services 7498 Chief, Helicopter Maintenance Class ACO, C, Office 0205 Fire Captain Class ARF, C 7496 Helicopter Maintenance Class D, Optional Polo Inspector 7494 Senior Helicopter Mechanic Class D, Optional Polo 7492 Helicopter Mechanic Class D, Optional Polo 0199 Fire Fighter Class ARF, C 0213 Senior Pilot, Fire Services Class ARF, C 0211 Pilot, Fire Services Class ARF, C 2331 Warehouse Worker I Class D
Position Specific:
Work Uniform: When items 0205, 0199, and 0211 are flying, they are approved to wear flight suits as follows:
Flight Suit: 5 ounce Nomex IIIA royal blue Winter Flight Jacket: 6.5 ounce quilted Nomex royal blue Summer Flight Jacket: 6.5 ounce Nomex IIIA royal blue Boots: Wildland style full leather non-steel toe, black
Optional Items: (Section IV, H) Optional polo shirt shall be the same type and color as the Fleet Services Division polo shirts and may be worn by items 7496, 7494, and 7492.
Issue/Replacement: (Section IV, I, J, and K)
Cloth Badge: Flight suits and flight jackets shall have a silver cloth badge on the left chest and a leather nameplate on the right chest.
Patches: Department approved Air Ops shoulder patch on flight suits, flight jackets, and uniforms for ranks below chief officer.
11-08-13 15 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy Camps Section
Item # Position Type of Uniform 0208 Battalion Chief Class ACO, C, Office 0205 Fire Captain Class ARF, C 0201 Fire Fighter Specialist Class ARF, C 0197 Senior Fire Suppression Aid Class ARF, C 0196 Fire Suppression Aid (FSA) Class ARF, C 6405 Chief Cook Class D 6399 Senior Cook Class D 6395 Assistant Cook Class D 8242 Student Worker Class D
Position Specific:
Work Uniform: All items in this series shall wear cotton undergarments. Professional staff, including FSA’s, will have their embroidered surname on the work uniform.
All items in this series shall wear the black Department issued brush fire fighting work boot. The Department approved Vibram lug sole boot is also approved.
Optional Items: (Section IV, H) Also, Items 0217, 0208, 0205, 0201, 0197, and 0196 may wear navy blue Mallory Crew Boss BDU pants with functional work belt (CMC Pro-Series Uniform Rappel Belt). All weather jackets are approved (black for item 0217 and 0208 and navy blue for all others).
Issue/Replacement: (Sections IV, I, J, and K)
Cloth Badge: Items 0196 and 0197 shall wear the silver cloth badge on the left chest of the uniform.
Patches: All items with the exception of chief officers, shall wear the approved Camps shoulder patch on their uniform work shirt.
Heavy Equipment Section
Item # Position Type of Uniform 0236 Supervising Construction Class ARF, C Equipment Operator 0234 Senior FF Construction Class ARF, C Equipment Operator 0232 FF Construction Equipment Operator Class ARF, C 6038 Transportation & Services Supervisor Class D 6054 Transportation Truck Driver Class D
11-08-13 16 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy Position Specific:
Optional Items: (Section IV, H)
Issue/Replacement: (Section IV, I, J, and K)
Cloth Badge: Items 0236, 0234, and 0232 will wear the silver cloth badge on the left chest of the uniform.
Patches: Department approved Heavy Equipment shoulder patch for items 0232, 0234 and 0236. Items 6038 and 6054 will wear the Department approved Transportation shoulder patch.
Lifeguard Division
Item # Position Type of Uniform 2935 Chief, Lifeguard Services Class ACO, C, Office 2934 Assistant Chief, Lifeguard Class ACO, C, Office Services 2932 Section Chief, Lifeguard Class ACO, C, Office Services 2925 Captain, Lifeguard Class ARF, C, Beach 2927 Senior Rescue Boat Captain Class ARF, C, Beach 2926 Rescue Boat Captain Class ARF, C, Beach 7472 Fire Equipment Mechanic Class D 6049 Medium Truck Driver Class D 2922 Ocean Lifeguard Specialist Class ARF, C, Beach 2934 Ocean Lifeguard Candidate Beach 2931 Youth Program Specialist Class ARF, C, Beach 2923 Ocean Lifeguards (recurrent) Beach
Position Specific:
Work Uniform: The Beach uniform consists of the following: Department approved solid blue deck shoes, blue or black beach sandals, plain white athletic socks, navy blue BDU pants off the beach, white polo-style long sleeve or short sleeve shirt, optional jackets as described in optional items section below, red trunk with Department approved patch on left leg or female swimsuit with patch on left side, and optional hats as described in optional items.
11-08-13 17 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy Optional Items: Red lifeguard fleece jacket, red lifeguard light weight jacket with or without a hood, or red lifeguard heavy weight jacket with blue embroidered name and rank (in block letters) on right breast, approved logo on left breast and Department name across the back, dark navy blue ball cap, sun hat, or knit cap. All clothing items will have the Fire Department Lifeguard insignia attached.
Issue/Replacement: (Section IV, I, J, and K) Sponsorship agreements are to be considered in addition to the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
Shoulder Patch: Department approved Lifeguard shoulder patch on left sleeve of blue Nomex III shirt and red jacket unless qualified to wear Lifeguard/Paramedic qualification patch.
IV. PROCEDURES
A. Class “A” Chief Officer (ACO) Dress Uniform (See Appendix I)
1. Class “A” Chief Officer (ACO) Dress Uniform: The Class “A” ACO uniform is approved for chief officers and the medical director. The Class “A” ACO uniform is purchased by the Department and shall consist of a black double-breasted Sac coat, a badge, a Department shoulder patch, gold metallic Maltese crosses (one for every five years of service), rank appropriate sleeve stripes, a metallic gold nameplate with blue lettering, a long sleeve white dress shirt, black plain front dress pants, black socks, highly shined dress shoes, a black tie, a chief officer series soft cap with hat piece, and a black belt with gold LACoFD buckle. This uniform shall be worn complete and be clean, free of rips, tears, excessive wear, or any unsightly conditions. Female chief officers shall substitute the double-breasted coat with the black single-breasted jacket with matching skirt or black pants.
2. The Class “A” ACO uniform shall be worn under the following conditions:
a. When making formal appearances before the Fire Chief.
b. When attending public or appropriate fire service functions.
c. When attending formal Department functions (e.g., promotions, commendations or funerals).
d. When directed by the Fire Chief.
11-08-13 18 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy e. This attire is optional for fire captains, with the following exceptions: soft cap with hat piece, silver nameplate with blue lettering, approved collar ornaments, black belt with silver LACoFD buckle, and two ½” silver sleeve stripes. Fire Captains dressed in Class ACO uniforms will be grouped together during any formal line-ups.
B. Class “A” Rank and File (ARF) Dress Uniform (see Appendix A)
1. Class “A” Rank and File (ARF) Dress Uniform: The Class “A” ARF uniform consists of a soft cap with hat piece, a long sleeve dark navy blue Nomex III shirt, a Department shoulder patch and silver cloth service stripes on the left sleeve are optional, dark navy blue Nomex III pants (optional skirt for females), a black tie, a metallic silver nameplate with blue lettering, a silver badge, approved collar ornaments, a black belt with silver LACoFD buckle, black socks, and shined dress shoes. Fire suppression aids shall wear the Department approved ball cap with the Class “A” (ARF) dress uniform, a cloth badge, and a silver metallic nameplate.
2. The Class “A” ARF Dress Uniform shall be worn under the following conditions:
a. When making formal appearances before the Fire Chief.
b. When attending public or appropriate fire service functions.
c. When attending formal Department functions (e.g., promotions, commendations or funerals).
d. When directed during inspection line-ups.
e. When directed by the Fire Chief.
f. When off duty at such events as dinner engagements or public speaking, with approval of a chief officer.
C. Optional Class “A” Non-Sworn (ANS) Dress Uniform
1. The optional dress uniform may be purchased by professional staff and consists of shined black shoes, black socks, dark navy blue pants (poly/cotton) with matching long sleeve shirt, black belt with silver LACoFD buckle, a black tie, and a silver metallic nameplate over right pocket, no cap.
D. Class “C” Uniform (see Appendix A)
11-08-13 19 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy
1. The work uniform varies per position. The work uniform is the primary uniform for the position and shall be worn on a routine basis.
2. Class “C” (Sworn): The Class “C” uniform consists of: dark navy blue Nomex III short/long sleeve shirt (black for chief officers), dark navy blue Nomex III pants (black for chief officers), appropriate collar ornaments, a badge, a metallic silver nameplate (gold for chief officers) with blue lettering, a black belt with LACoFD silver or gold buckle, shined black work boots, a Department shoulder patch, black socks, dark blue or white V-neck T-shirt (black for chief officers), and a work jacket. A Department-issued pin is allowed.
Note: Socks and T-shirts are not purchased by the Department. Socks may be white if they are not visible to others. T-shirts are permitted for wear in quarters when not visible to the public, or during rehabilitation at an incident. T-shirts may have a Department approved logo, and shall match the color of the Nomex III work shirt.
E. Class “D” Work Uniform
1. This uniform will be purchased by the Department. The Class “D” work uniform consists of a dark blue poly/cotton short or long sleeve shirt, a silver metallic nameplate with blue lettering, Department approved shoulder patch, dark blue poly/cotton pants (optional skirt for females in some items), a work jacket, a black belt with LACoFD silver buckle, shined black shoes, black socks, and an optional dark blue or white V-neck T-shirt. Department issued pins are allowed.
Note: Shoes, socks and T-shirts are not purchased by the Department. Socks may be white if they are not visible to others.
F. Office Uniform
1. The office uniform consists of black poly/wool blend dress pants, a white long or short sleeve dress shirt with the standard Department shoulder patch, a black tie and shined black dress shoes, the approved belt with LACoFD buckle, and collar ornaments. The Eisenhower or “Ike” jacket is optional if a more formal appearance is desired.
G. Physical Fitness Attire
1. Physical Fitness Attire: The Class “C” uniform is the approved uniform for physical fitness.
11-08-13 20 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy 2. Optional physical fitness attire for sworn personnel is approved as well. The optional fitness uniform should be made from fabrics that promote the reduction of body heat by allowing body moisture to evaporate quickly, while also providing maximum protection from ambient heat. Fabrics with the same or better qualities than 100% cotton are allowed.
3. Optional physical fitness attire consists of a blue (black optional for chief officers) crewneck short/long sleeve shirt. Shirt length must cover all parts of the trunk. Dark blue (black optional for chief officers) athletic-type shorts or athletic pants are permitted. Shorts are to be mid to lower thigh in length, and should fit appropriately to reduce the effects of chafing. This includes the use of the reinforced biking shorts for wear while using an exercise bike.
4. A dark blue (chief officers may wear black) long sleeve crewneck sweatshirt is permitted.
5. Athletic footwear, designed for the specific activity being performed, is encouraged; white or black athletic socks are approved.
H. Optional Items (see Appendix B spec sheets for approved items):
1. Ball Cap: Department approved baseball style work cap (described in Appendix B9.3), black for chief officers and navy blue for all others, are allowed at the discretion of the supervisor. Utilize discretion for indoor use during public activities, and while attending public events.
2. Sun Hat: For conditions where extreme exposure to the sun is unavoidable, and the Department safety helmet is not needed, personnel may wear a wide brimmed sun hat to protect their head and neck from over exposure.
3. Sunglasses: Outdoor use only; indoor use prohibited.
4. V-neck T-Shirts: Black for chief officers, dark navy blue for all others, may be worn under the work uniform shirt.
5. Sweatshirt: The sweatshirt (described in Appendix B9.4), shall only be worn over the top of the work shirt during routine duty. The employee may wear the sweatshirt at night or in inclement weather only. Sweatshirts that are faded, wrinkled, have curled collars, rips, tears, or other unsightly conditions shall not be worn.
11-08-13 21 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy 6. Jackets: Lined and unlined dark blue/black work jacket (short/long sleeve) may be worn. Employee’s work uniform patch is to be worn on the left sleeve.
7. Business Suit: Approved when required for the venue.
8. Chief Officers are approved to wear black Blauer all-weather jackets. Refer to Appendix B9.1 for specifications. The Department patch affixed to the left sleeve is optional.
9. Parka: 3-in-1 or 5-in1 Black/Dark (5.11 Tactical series). Jackets will be plain with no badge tabs. The Department patch affixed to the left sleeve is optional. This jacket is approved for use when warranted in extreme weather conditions.
10. Maternity: Employees on light duty for maternity purposes are approved to wear their uniform or comfortable business attire. If business attire is worn, the County Identification Card shall also be worn and visible while on duty.
I. Uniform Issuance:
1. New safety employee: The Department will purchase two Nomex III short sleeve shirts, one Nomex III long sleeve shirt, three Nomex III pants, one work jacket, a belt with LACoFD buckle, a black tie, a soft cap, and one pair of work boots.
2. Safety employees promoted to captain/supervisor will be provided two Nomex III short/long sleeve shirts with white buttons. A soft cap and all other items will be replaced at the expense of the safety member unless otherwise approved for replacement.
3. Newly promoted chief officers: One Class “A” Uniform will be purchased for newly promoted chief officers with the exception of dress shoes. The Department will also purchase two black Nomex III short-sleeve shirts, one black Nomex III long-sleeve shirt, three black Nomex III pants, one Eisenhower (Ike) jacket, and one chief officer rank appropriate soft cap.
11-08-13 22 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy 4. Staff Assignments: Sworn employees that are transferred or promoted into staff positions will have a “one time” initial uniform of two short-sleeve white shirts, two black poly/wool pants, (optional skirts for females), purchased by the Department. Uniforms for subsequent transfers or promotions into a staff position will not be a Department expense. Professional staff uniforms will be issued as dictated in the MOU, or as ordered by the Fire Chief according to Section I.
5. Non-sworn employees: The division head or uniform coordinator, if one is appointed, shall be responsible for the issue and replacement of all uniforms and accessory items per the MOU for that class of employee. All other uniform items will be procured and replaced by the employee.
J. Uniform Replacement: Employees that receive a uniform allowance will be issued the initial set as described above; subsequent uniforms are the responsibility of the employee. Each employee required to wear a uniform shall repair or replace worn or damaged uniform/s. The uniform allowance shall be used to purchase uniforms on an annual basis. A “Claim for Reimbursement” (Volume 2, Chapter 10, Subject 3) along with a “Survey Request” (Form 41) may be submitted for uniform items that are damaged during the performance of daily duties and requires the approval of the employee’s respective deputy chief.
K. All initial issue and replacement uniform items are subject to current MOU agreements for the particular employee group to which the employee belongs. Employees should consult with their supervisor to determine current policy prior to ordering initial uniform items or replacing worn items.
11-08-13 23 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy Appendix A
A1 Class “A” Chief Officer Dress Uniform
A2 Class “A” Rank and File Dress Uniform
A3 Class “A” Non-Sworn Optional Dress Uniform
A4 Class “C” Work Uniform
A5 Class “D” Work Uniform
A6 Office Uniform
A7 Physical Fitness
A8 Vendor Information
11-08-13 24 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy Appendix B
Class “A” Chief Officer (ACO) Dress Uniform items
B1.1 Double-breasted Sac coat B1.2 Pants B1.3 Dress shirt B1.4 Single-breasted coat for women B1.5 Dress skirt for women
Class “A” Rank and File (ARF) Dress Uniform Items
B2.1 Dark navy blue long sleeve Nomex III shirt and pants
Class “A” Non-Sworn (ANS) Optional Dress Uniform Items
B3.1 Dark navy blue long sleeve poly/cotton dress shirt with matching Pants (optional skirt for females)
Class “C” Work Uniform Items
B4.1 Short/Long sleeve Nomex III shirt B4.2 Nomex III pants B4.3 Short/Long sleeve work jacket B4.4 Work boots
Class “D” Work Uniform Items
B5.1 Dark blue long/short sleeve poly/cotton shirt B5.2 Dark blue poly/cotton pants B5.3 Dark blue short sleeve poly/cotton shirt – student worker
Office Uniform Items
B6.1 Long/short sleeve white dress shirt B6.2 Poly/wool blend black dress pants B6.3 Eisenhower “Ike” Jacket
11-08-13 25 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy Common Uniform Accessory Items
B7.1 Black tie; black dress shoes; belt and LACoFD buckles B7.2 Dress Caps – chief officers, captains, firefighter specialists and fire fighters B7.3 Collar insignias; name tags B7.4 Rank sleeve stripes and Maltese cross ornaments B7.5 Standard Department shoulder patch B7.6 Qualification shoulder patches B7.7 Assignment shoulder patches B7.8 Cloth badge patches
Physical fitness Items
B8.1 Crewneck T-shirt; shorts; crewneck sweatshirt; athletic shoes B8.2 Shorts and Department approved logos
Optional Uniform Items
B9.1 Blauer jacket B9.2 BDU pants for Arson and Camps section personnel B9.3 Crewneck T-shirt; polo shirt; ball cap B9.4 Collared sweatshirt/job shirt
Extreme Weather Optional Wear
B10.1 5.11 tactical series 3 in 1 jacket; knit cap B10.2 Rain jacket and pants
Lifeguard Division
B11.1 Lifeguard beach attire B11.2 Lifeguard light jackets and hats
11-08-13 26 of 26 V2-C11-S1 Uniforms Uniform Policy