HomeMy WebLinkAboutPackets - Council Packets (1594) AGENDA
SPECIAL SESSION
ORO VALLEY TOWN COUNCIL
AND
FIRE ADVISORY BOARD**
MARCH 11, 1998
ORO VALLEY TOWN COUNCIL CHAMBERS
11,000 N. LA CANADA DRIVE
SPECIAL SESSION - AT OR AFTER 7:00 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
1. FIRE ADVISORY BOARD RECOMMENDATION REGARDING "EVALUATION OF
EMERGENCY AND NON-EMERGENCY SERVICES" FOR THE TOWN OF ORO
VALLEY (CONSIDERATION AND/OR ACTION)
ADJOURNMENT
The Town of Oro Valley complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If any
person with a disability needs any type of accommodation, please notify Kathryn Cuvelier,
Town Clerk, at 297-2591.
POSTED: 3/6/98
2:00 p.m.
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TOWN OF ORO VALLEY
COUNCIL COMMUNICATION SPECIAL MEETING DATE: MARCH 11, 1998
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND COUNCIL
FROM: WERNER S. WOLFF, CHIEF OF POLICE
DATE: MARCH 6, 1998
RE: ESCG FIRE/EMS REPORT
The final
report generated by the fire consultants was to be delivered on February 16, 1998;
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however, it was not received until today, Friday, March 6, 1998. There has not been sufficient
time to thoroughly review it. I also feel that other Department Heads should review this report
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since it may have an impact on their operations and therefore they should be given a chance
to examine the final report. It is also my opinion that the residents currently in the territory
serviced by Rural Metro — approximately 75% of the Town's population — should be apprised
of the impending change and should be able to voice their opinions.
Fiscal Impact: None for FY 1997/98
Attachments: None
Recommendation: I recommend that the acceptance of the Report's recommendations
be delayed for a further study session.
Suggested Motion: I move that Council delay acceptance of the Report's
recommendations until there has been a further study session.
OR
I move that the Report itself be accepted and the recommendations
be remanded to a further study session.
.
Werner S. • , Chi: of Police
Charles F. Sweet, Town Manager
TOWN OF ORO VALLEY
COUNCIL COMMUNICATION SPECIAL MEETING DATE: March 11, 1998
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND COUNCIL
FROM: Jan Kvancz, Chair, Fire Advisory Board
SUBJECT: ESCG Fire/EMS Draft Report
BACKGROUND:
A Request For Proposal was sent to bidders on September 11, 1997 listing the specific areas of study and
assessment of the two Fire Companies currently serving Oro Valley. On November 5, 1997 the Town
Council awarded a contract to Emergency Services Consulting Group located in West Linn, Oregon to review
and evaluate emergency, non-emergency fire and emergency medical services for Oro Valley.
An executed Professional Services Contract between the Town of Oro Valley and Emergency Services
Consulting Group was mailed to ESCG for signatures on December 4, 1997.
To date ESCG has made two on-site visits consisting of four days. They have met with Rural/Metro and
Golder Ranch Fire District personnel, the Mayor, Council Members, Fire Advisory Board Members, the
Police Chief, and Oro Valley's Chief Building Inspector.
On February 4, 1998 the `Draft" of the Review and Evaluation arrived at Town Hall. Distribution of the
copies to Council Members, Fire Advisory Board Members and Town staff was completed on February 6.
Terms of the"RFP"are that the consultants will present to the Town Council a"Final Report" at a regularly
scheduled Council meeting. The"RFP"did not include a provision for presenting the 'Draft"to Council or
Fire Advisory Board members. Corrections to the`Draft"have been made by the Fire Advisory Board and
submitted to the consultants for the"Final Report". The`Final Report"will be delivered to all individuals
who currently have`Draft" copies no later than Friday, March 6, 1998.
SUMMARY:
On March 11, 1998 the"Final Report"will be presented to the Town Council by Jim Davis and Roger Neal,
two of the three consultants who have worked on this project. Following the presentation of the report the
consultants will answer all questions concerning their recommendations to the Town of Oro Valley.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
The Fire Advisory Board recommends that Mayor and Council take action on the following:
1. Accept the report, "Review and Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Fire
and Emergency Medical Services" as presented by the consultants.
TOWN OF ORO VALLEY
COUNCIL COMMUNICATION Page 2 of 2
2. Adopt the Recommendations as described on pages 3-7 in the report as soon as possible,
with the following stipulation: At present neither Fire Department can meet Performance
Standards as outlined in the report. We propose that the Fire companies be given 6 months
to prepare to meet the Performance Standards. After the 6 months each Fire Department will
be reviewed and evaluated on a regular basis to determine if the Performance Standards are
being met according to the terms of their contracts.
3. We further recommend that the Emergency Consulting Services Group have their original
contract amended in order to develop the strategic plan for fire protection and emergency
medical services and to include performance standards for these services.
FISCAL IMPACT:
FY 1998-1999 $8,700
SUGGESTED MOTION:
The Fire Advisory Board moves to accept the Report as presented, adopt the Performance Standards
with the stipulation as noted above, and to amend the contract with ESCG to develop the strategic
plan and performance standards.
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Evaluation of Emergency and
Non-Emergency Services
Town of Oro Valley, Arizona
Emergency Services
Consulting Group
...a subsidiary of the GLATFELTER INSURANCE GROUP
WEST LINN,OR.97068
(503)655-7775
3565 RIVERKNOLL WAY
Prepared by
Jeffrey Johnson
James Davis
Roger Neal
February, 1998
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EXECUTIVE
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ORGANIZATIONS OVERVIEW
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY- _4
RECOMMENDATIONS ____6
INTRODUCTION- 11
Purpose 11
Scope 11
Background 11
Planning for Fire Protection 12
Organizing for the planning process 12
Review of the current planning process 12
Critical issues and analyzing current and future services ---- ----13
Joint Powers Initiative-- 14
Evaluation Methodology 15
FIRE DEPARTMENT ORGANIZATION -OVERVIEW 18
Rural/Metro: -- 18
Golder Ranch Fire District:---- 19
Fire Department Management -- 19
Challenges of the Future 19
Internal and External Communications 20
Capitol Replacement and Improvement 20
Personnel Management 21
Labor Relations 21
Disciplinary Process 22
Application and Recruitment Process 22
Health and Safety -----22
Infection Control Program 23
Safety Committee - 23
Annual Physical Fitness Testing -23
New Product and Material Testing- 23
Safety Officer On-Call Program 24
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 1
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775 \jit
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Staffing----- ----------- 24
Administrative and Support Staff 24
Emergency Response Staff-- 25
Utilization of Career and Reserve Companies 26
Capitol Improvement Program 27
Stations 27
Apparatus 27
Support Equipment 28
Methods of financing capitol needs- 28
Emergency Services Delivery System 29
Response Time 29
Rural Metro 29
Golder Ranch 32
Station Location and Needs 34
Projected Community Development and Growth 35
Insurance Services Office Class Rating: 35
Incident Control and Management 37
Fire/EMS Dispatch 37
Response Scenarios 38
Time Points and Time Intervals 39
Fire Loss Data 41
Training Program 42
General Training Competency 42
Training Administration 42
Training Schedule 43
Training Facilities 43
Training Program Goals and Objectives 43
Training Procedures Manual - 44
Methodology Utilized for Training 44
Record Keeping 44
Personnel to be Trained 44
Administrative Priority-- 44
Prevention Programs 45
Code Enforcement - 45
New Construction Inspections and Plan Review 45
Fire Safety Education -47
Medical Safety Education -48
Existing Occupancy Inspections - 50
Community Affairs 50
Facilities,Apparatus and Equipment 51
Facilities Analysis and Inventory---- 51
Evaluation of Apparatus and Inventory 51
Recommended Additions to Facilities, Apparatus and Equipment - 52
Recommended Reductions to Apparatus and Equipment 52
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley,Arizona 2
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775
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HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 52
RECOMMENDATION IMPLEMENTATION PLAN 53
Major Projects 53
Town of Oro Valley 53
Rural/Metro 53
Golder Ranch 53
Time Line for Completion 54
APPENDIX A: STAFFING JUSTIFICATION -55
APPENDIX B: FIRE SERVICE RESPONSE PLANNING FACTORS 57
APPENDIX C: RESPONSE MAPS
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 3
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775cSdi
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Executive Summary
Emergency Services Consulting Group has been retained by the Town of Oro Valley,
Arizona, to conduct a study reviewing the performance and staffing levels of current
services provided by the Golder Ranch Fire District and Rural/Metro Corporation to
the citizens of Oro Valley. As a process of conducting this study we reviewed and
analyzed six options: status quo; all service provided by Rural/Metro Corporation; all
service provided by Golder Ranch Fire District; outside contract with another
municipality; the Town of Oro Valley accepting all responsibility for emergency
medical and fire protection; and a cooperative arrangement with specific services
provided by Golder Ranch Fire District and Rural/Metro.
At this time, neither organization is being held accountable to the Town of Oro
Valley. This could leave the citizens without any fire protection or emergency
medical services. The Town Council needs to develop and adopt performance
standards to measure the efficiency of all emergency service providers, and the
Council should hold those emergency service providers accountable in meeting the
standards. The Town should develop a strategic plan for current and future levels of
service needed to meet the performance standards.
ESCG does not feel that the status quo is acceptable to the Town of Oro Valley. We
have identified serious deficiencies in the area of code enforcement, building plan
review, and water supply,that places the community at risk.
Other options that ESCG does not feel are viable are; a single provider of all
emergency medical services and fire protection, a contract with an outside
municipality, or the Town of Oro Valley accepting full responsibility for emergency
medical services and fire protection. ESCG considers a single provider as a fire
department that also provides all ambulance transportation services for both advanced
life support and basic life support. Such a system makes advanced
paramedic/firefighters unavailable every time a basic life support patient is
transported to a hospital. The distant location of the hospitals means that the time
these paramedics are unavailable will be considerable.
ESCG offers eight recommendations that are outside the responsibility of either fire
department yet will have significant impact on the level of fire protection and
emergency medical services delivered to the citizens of the community. We further
recommend the following be the model for the delivery of these services to the Town
of Oro Valley. The recommendations offered in this study are based on nationally
recognized benchmarks and best practices. We are offering our recommendations
based on well-accepted models for life saving during a cardiac arrest and fire
suppression prior to flashover.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 4
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775
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ESCG is a strong advocate of regionalization and consolidation of public service
agencies, when the community will benefit from such action. The current Joint
Powers Initiative or "WI", between Golder Ranch Fire District, Rural/Metro
Corporation and Northwest Fire District has some appealing components. However,
at this time it has not been determined if the JPI is legal or allowable under Arizona
law. Furthermore, we have reason to believe there is a significant possibility of
resistance to the agreement from organized labor. We are uncomfortable with the fact
that Northwest Fire District will be the lead agency. This is not to infer there are
deficiencies within that organization, but rather, that we have not studied and
analyzed Northwest Fire District's strengths and weaknesses. Essentially, others are
making decisions that will impact Oro Valley citizens without input from, or
accountability to the Town. Finally, it does not appear all policy makers from each of
the affected organizations support the concept. Without the support of the policy
makers and organized labor, we feel the potential for failure is too great to risk
implementation of the "JPI"at this time.
ESCG wishes to thank the Fire Advisory Board, Town Council members and the
Town staff for their cooperation. We also wish to thank the staff of both fire
departments for their assistance in providing a large amount of data in a short amount
of time.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 5
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Recommendations
ESCG recommends the following to improve the emergency and non-emergency fire
protection and emergency medical services to the Town of Oro Valley. The
recommendations are divided into issues that relate to the Town itself; to the
emergency service delivery agencies; and to regional consolidation and sharing of
resources.
1. The Golder Ranch Fire District should be the primary fire and
emergency medical services provider for the entire Town of Oro
Valley. As a provision of this agreement,the Town should contract
with Rural/Metro (or another private company)to provide Basic Life
Support(BLS) ambulance transportation and provide Advanced Life
Support (ALS)back up to Golder Ranch. Performance standards
should be a part of the contract.
The following factors that are discussed in the report support the
recommendation.
• ISO Insurance Grading: The superior ISO insurance grading of
Golder Ranch Fire District saves the residences and business
owners' money on insurance premiums. The superior insurance
grading is especially significant since Rural/Metro was regraded
recently and Golder Ranch Fire District was rated approximately
10 years ago. Golder Ranch Fire District is scheduled to be
regraded in 1998. With the improvements that have been made at
Golder Ranch Fire District in the areas of staffing and equipment, a
further reduction in insurance grading is anticipated.
• Fire Apparatus: Golder Ranch staffs fire apparatus with more
personnel than does Rural/Metro. The impact of this is
demonstrated by Golder Ranch Fire District's vastly lower fire loss
statistics. Furthermore, Golder Ranch Fire District's staffing of
four personnel committed to the Town of Oro Valley more closely
meets the OSHA requirements and the National Fire Protection
Association's guidelines for structural fire attack.
• Legal Authority: Golder Ranch has the legal authority to enforce
the fire code, whereas Rural/Metro has no legal authority to
enforce the fire code. During a survey of the community, we noted
at least one large construction project in Rural/Metro's jurisdiction
that did not have adequate water supply established. This is a
violation of both the Uniform Fire Code and National Fire
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 6
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775 `'ok
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Protection Association Standards. Rural/Metro's lack of legal
authority to enforce the Uniform Fire Code places the citizens of
the Town of Oro Valley at greater risk from fires.
• Facilities: Golder Ranch is currently planning to build and staff at
least one additional fire station inside the Town of Oro Valley.
The staffing and equipment at this station will be dedicated to the
Town of Oro Valley. This will mean Golder Ranch Fire District
will have two stations dedicated to the Town of Oro Valley.
Rural/Metro is currently planning to build three fire stations in the
Tucson area, none of which are dedicated to the Town of Oro
Valley. Golder Ranch Fire District has demonstrated a
commitment to the Town of Oro Valley.
• Mutual Aid: The City of Tucson Fire Department is willing to
sign a Mutual Aid agreement with Golder Ranch Fire District, but
is not willing to sign such an agreement with Rural/Metro. The
benefit of such a mutual aid agreement is an increase in the depth
of service to the Town of Oro Valley. If Golder Ranch Fire
District's equipment is committed to another emergency outside
the Town of Oro Valley, the City of Tucson will send fire
equipment and staffing to protect the citizens in Oro Valley.
Rural/Metro may use some of their own equipment from as far
away as Green Valley or Helmet Peak to provide backup protection
to Oro Valley. With the exception of the recently signed Mutual
Aid agreement with Northwest Fire, we do not consider any of
Rural/Metro's other mutual aid agreements to be of any benefit to
Oro Valley.
• Dispatch Center: The City of Tucson is in the process of
developing a multi-agency dispatch center that meets the current
updated standards for an emergency communications center.
Golder Ranch Fire District may be a member of this regional
communications center. It was indicated to us that Rural/Metro
can not participate in this center due to legal constraints. In our
experience, consolidated dispatch centers increase efficiencies in
communications during large emergencies. Although the WI
proposal indicates the construction of a new dispatch center, this
facility will be dedicated solely to fire and emergency medical
operations. We are also concerned that the legal constraints on
using public dollars to support a private corporation may also
prohibit the joint dispatch center as proposed in the JPI.alley.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 7
ESCG -3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn, OR 97068-(503) 655-7775 ) c( k
• Response Times: Golder Ranch's response times for the first
arriving piece of equipment is quicker than Rural/Metro's response
times. (See charts on pages 29 and 32.)
• Incident Command: Golder Ranch has one dedicated incident
command officer for three fire stations. Rural/Metro has one
dedicated command officer for eleven current stations. This
command officer is located a considerable distance from Oro
Valley, and may be committed to another emergency. The
benchmark for dedicated command officers to maintain a practical
span of control is one command officer for every three to five fire
stations.
As a part of implementing this recommendation, Rural/Metro's
Certificate of Need for ambulance operations as issued by the State of
Arizona may need to be revised to allow Golder Ranch Fire District to
be the primary provider and Rural/Metro to be the back-up and basic
life support transport agency. We feel this is possible, as the
arrangement will be similar to the current system used in the City of
Tucson.
This recommendation made by ESCG should provide quicker response
times, a lower ISO rating that decreases insurance costs, and more
dedicated services to the citizens of Oro Valley.
2. The Town of Oro Valley and Golder Ranch Fire District should jointly develop
a customer-based strategic plan for emergency and non-emergency fire and
pre-hospital medical care. The plan should include measurable goals and
objectives. The plan should also include a capital improvement plan to insure
adequate facilities, equipment, and staffing to meet the projected growth. This
plan should include emergency response standards.
Emergency response standards should include the total time for telephone call
receipt, transfer, alarm processing, reaction time, and driving time. It is normal
for the response time standard to have a performance measure, such as (X)
minutes 90% of the responses. For emergency medical incidents, ESCG
recommends a maximum response time, including dispatching and reaction
time, of four to six minutes for the arrival of basic life support personnel, and a
maximum of eight minutes for an advanced life support ambulance.
For structural fires, ESCG recommends a maximum response Time,
including dispatching and reaction time, of six minutes for the initial
four personnel, comprised of one for incident commander, two for
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 8
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775 (Ilk
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firefighters and one apparatus operator. A minimum of 13 personnel
should arrive at the scene within ten minutes of the call being received
at the Primary Public Service Answering Point.
For dispatch processing time, ESCG recommends the benchmark of 50
seconds. This is the time from the initial telephone call being answered to
notification of the emergency responders.
The plan can also determine if impact fees collected by the town should be
partially applied to fire protection; street and traffic circulation design
standards; water system upgrades; and/or potential emergency response station
locations based upon adopted response standards.
3. One of the functions of the Fire Advisory Board should be to monitor
the emergency response times and contracts with the emergency
service providers. This Advisory Board should be responsible for
holding the service providers accountable for meeting the Town's
response criteria.
4. The Oro Valley Town Council should adopt the 1997 Uniform Fire
Code, and the 1997 editions of the Uniform Building Code, Uniform
Mechanical Code, Uniform Plumbing Code, Code for the
Abandonment of Dangerous Buildings, and the Uniform
Administrative Code.
In addition to the adoption of the Uniform Codes, the Town should, by
reference, adopt the National Fire Codes as published by the National
Fire Protection Association, and the American Water Works
Association's Distribution System Requirements for Fire Protection,
and Dual Water Systems.
Adoption of these codes and standards will give the Town of Oro
Valley the legal mechanism to enforce nationally recognized standards
for fire protection.
As part of the completion of recommendation No. 1, the Town Council
should formally transfer responsibility for fire code enforcement, fire
cause and determination, and life safety education to the Golder Ranch
Fire District.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 9
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775 3•�
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5. The Town should require the local water companies to upgrade their
water systems to provide adequate water for fire fighting purposes in
accordance with the Insurance Services Office Standard Grading for
Fire Protection, and the American Water Works Association's
requirements. Upgrades that are anticipated include increase in water
main size, increase in storage capacity and a decrease in hydrant
spacing. The town should set a deadline for the upgrading of the water
systems.
6. The Oro Valley Police Department should become the primary
dispatch center for Golder Ranch Fire Department, until a new
regional center can be constructed. Golder Ranch and Rural/Metro
should not have 9-1-1 calls routed through Medical Emergency
Dispatch System (MEDS).
Time clocks between the OVPD and both Golder Ranch and
Rural/Metro should be synchronized. A common incident number
should be assigned to each fire or emergency medical response. The
purpose of the synchronization and common incident tracking number
is response time data, including telephone processing time, can be
accurately tracked and analyzed.
7. The Town of Oro Valley should adopt a comprehensive emergency
management plan designed to maintain a continuity of services in the
event of a local or regional disaster. The plan should be compatible
with Pima County's plan. Golder Ranch Fire District should be
identified in the Town's plan as the lead emergency management
agency.
8. The Town of Oro Valley should support the annexation of the entire
town into the Golder Ranch Fire District.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 10
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' INTRODUCTION
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775
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Introduction
This study is offered in response to a Request for Proposal from the Town of
Oro Valley. The request is to "review and analyze the current delivery of
emergency and non-emergency fire, medical and public assistance to town
residents".
Purpose
The study is to review performance and staffing levels of current services
provided by the Golder Ranch Fire District and Rural/Metro Corporation to
the citizens of Oro Valley.
Scope
This study is limited to an assessment of fire protection and emergency
medical services to include:
• Those resources dedicated to the Town of Oro Valley.
• Personnel staffing at each fire station located in Oro Valley.
• Fire Prevention and public education activities.
• Emergency Medical Services (EMS) dispatch and on-scene response
times.
• Fire/rescue dispatch and on-scene response times.
• Department education,training resources and facility needs.
• Centralized/computerized dispatch center.
Background
The two fire organizations provide protection for an area consisting of
approximately 26 square miles, with a current population of approximately
22,834. There are slightly over 9500 homes in Oro Valley. The area
population of 22,834 in 1997 increases to a projected 31,375 by 2002 and
39,285 by the year 2007. This is a 42% growth rate over the next ten years.
The town projects a population of 78,046 by the year 2045. It is anticipated
that the majority of the growth will be to the north and west of the currently
developed areas.
There is one major resort development planned for the northwest portion of
the current town. Other major developments anticipated are additional
housing developments consisting of primarily single family residences. The
Town of Oro Valley is considered as one of the fastest growing communities
in Arizona. During the past year, commercial development has increased with
this trend expected to continue.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 11
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775
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According to the Fire Advisory Board, Rural/Metro Fire Department, a private
corporation, has about 7,121 homes in their response area, or 3/4 of the town.
Rural/Metro's statistics indicate they have 6,334 homes in Oro Valley, with
5,345 members. Rural/Metro collects subscriptions from the residents and
businesses in their service area. Approximately 1,000 residents (19%) choose
not to pre-pay for fire protection. Rural/Metro will respond to these
properties, but will bill the property owner at a published rate. Ambulance
coverage provided by Rural/Metro is a separate contract. Rural/Metro stated
that most people do not buy the separate ambulance contract, as their
insurance pays for ambulance transportation.
Golder Ranch Fire District, a publicly financed special district, serves 2,180
homes or 1/4 of the town. Each organizations has one fire station located
within the boundaries of the Town of Oro Valley. However, each
organizations also have fire stations located near the town. Staff and
equipment from these stations routinely respond into the town to provide
service. This is a common practice in smaller and medium size communities.
"It is frequently impossible for small cities to fully staff all of the fire
companies they need to handle working fires throughout the community. In
many cases, population density and the values protected per square mile are
relatively low".1
Planning for Fire Protection
Organizing for the planning process
Planning for fire protection is difficult when the organizations involved do not
have any knowledge of the community's desired level of service. Furthermore
the unique situation in Oro Valley with the Town having no accountability for
fire protection, or from either organization, complicates the planning process.
Both Rural/Metro and Golder Ranch Fire indicated that they are waiting for
the Town of Oro Valley to make a decision.
Review of the current planning process
There appears to be little interaction between the Town of Oro Valley and
either fire department in regards to planning. The fire departments are not
involved early in the planning for major developments, roads, or water system
demands. Furthermore, the fire departments conduct their reviews of new
construction plans isolated from the Building Department's review.
11 NFPA Handbook,eighteenth edition,Chapter 10,revised by Robin Paulsgrove
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 12
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775
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Rural/Metro:
Rural/Metro indicated they need to build three new stations in their service
area. None of these are proposed to be in the Town of Oro Valley. The only
specific station location mentioned is a relocation of the current station on
Magee Rd. to a location approximately one mile north and west.
Golder Ranch:
Golder Ranch indicated they would need to build at least two new stations in
the future. Their plans are to build and staff, with a minimum of three
personnel, one fire station in the Town of Oro Valley and another in the fire
district. Their current guidelines are for all areas of their district to be within a
five-mile distance to a fire station.
Critical issues and analyzing current and future services
The Town of Oro Valley needs to take responsibility for determining
performance standards for the emergency service providers. Current and
future services should be based upon Town performance standards adopted by
the Town council.
Growth is a critical issue. Ideally, fire protection and emergency medical
services would be in place prior to development. However this is not realistic
since bare land contributes little revenue value. Certainly, future station
locations can be anticipated based upon the Town's performance standards.
Adequate water supply for fire protection needs to be installed prior to the
start of construction. Currently the Town is not enforcing this provision of the
Uniform Fire Code.
The lack of consistency of code adoption between the Town of Oro Valley and
the Golder Ranch Fire District can result in conflicts between the codes.
Furthermore, Rural/Metro has no legal authority to enforce the codes. A
builder might have two sets of standards for the same building, depending
upon which portion of the Town the building is located.
Road design and the adequacy of bridges over the wash impact travel distance
and response times for emergency vehicles. Future planning by the Town for
road improvements should consider the emergency service performance
standards adopted by the Town.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 13
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775
Joint Powers Initiative
The formal Joint Powers Initiative was delivered to ESCG after the original
draft of this report was submitted to the Fire Advisory Board for review.
Furthermore, a review of the JPI is outside the scope of this study. The WI
covers six areas: Communication, Station Locations and Resource
Deployment, Equipment Adaptation, Fire Prevention, Public Relations,
Training and Standard Operating Guidelines. The fire chiefs from Golder
Ranch Fire District, Northwest Fire District and Rural/Metro Fire Department
developed the JPI. Operating committees consisted of various personnel from
each agency provided input into the six areas.
There is no information in the WI that indicates support for the concept from
the policy makers of the two fire districts. Furthermore, much of the JPI will
impact large geographical areas outside the town of Oro Valley.
ESCG agrees with the concept of regionalization, when such efforts benefit
the community. We have been involved in numerous studies of
consolidations and mergers of emergency service organizations. ESCG has
offered a recommendation for a regionalized communications center that is
different than the one proposed in the JPI. Joint training is beneficial for all
departments, as they may occasionally need to respond jointly. Adoption of a
standardized fire code across the entire county is also a worthwhile goal,
which will eliminate one problem that we have identified. The JPI does not
address the issue that Rural/Metro does not have the legal authority to enforce
the Fire Code, or adoption of the companion Building Codes. The
consolidation of a Rural/Metro fire station with a Northwest fire station may
benefit that portion of the county, but will have little improvement in service
delivery for the Town of Oro Valley.
The addition of a new Golder Ranch fire station identified as Station 115 will
improve response times for a large area of the Town of Oro Valley. There is
no indication in the JPI as to proposed equipment or staffing at this station, so
the actual impact to the Town is unknown at this time.
With the exception of the proposed communications center, there are no costs
provided for capital improvements or staffing. There are no potential cost
savings provided. Lastly, there are no benefits to the citizens of Oro Valley
stated in the proposal.
The Town of Oro Valley needs to identify and adopt performance standards
for the emergency providers to follow whether through a JPI or a model as we
have recommended.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 14
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775 `ik
CIO
10►
Evaluation Methodology
Two concepts are useful in evaluating local emergency response
organizations. First is the "capability" of the fire department to respond with
sufficient trained personnel and equipment to rescue any trapped occupants
and confine the fire to the room of origin or building of origin. How many
crewmembers and vehicles of various types are necessary is dependent upon
the type of call and the conditions of the local community, which aid or
hinder, fire fighting. The variables which certainly number more than twenty,
range from water supply and sprinkler ordinances to weather conditions and
age of buildings.
The second concept is that of"capacity", which is the ability of the fire
department to respond adequately to multiple-alarm incidents and/or
simultaneous calls of any type.
In evaluating both local response capability and capacity, local officials need
to consider the following. In most areas, it is relatively easy to increase
capacity (through the use of automatic aid, mutual aid, group or entire shift
callbacks), but it is much more difficult to improve capability, which requires
immediate response of nearby forces.
A common rule of thumb is that a community using on-duty crews at fire
stations should be able to have an initial attack team comprising an entire first
alarm response on the scene within approximately eight minutes of receipt of
alarm. This allows 50 seconds for alarm processing, and 60 seconds for the
crews to react and depart the station. Consequently a four-minute or less
response travel time is necessary to meet this benchmark.
Effective fire fighting requires numerous simultaneous activities to be
performed. Moderate risk hazards are those buildings that have fire flow
requirements of less than 2,000 gpm. For the purpose of this study, ESCG
will consider the predominant building classification in Oro Valley as
moderate hazard.
Emergency services standard response (for moderate risk hazards):
• Provide a six-minute response to fire activities to 90% of the town for the
first unit.
• Provide one staffed truck company with in a 10 minutes response to 90%
of the town.
• Provide three staffed engine companies, one staffed truck company, and
one command officer with in ten minutes to all emergency fire activities
with in the town.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 15
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068 (503)655-7775
When evaluating manual fire suppression, the issue isn't the type of vehicles
(other than adequate engine companies required to pump enough water to
meet the fire flow requirements of the building and establish a water supply);
but rather the functions that need to be completed, regardless of how the fire
fighters arrive at the scene. In fact, at many fires, only the first arriving engine
is utilized, with minor equipment (such as self-contained breathing apparatus)
used from the other arriving vehicles.
Various scientific models have been developed to graphically display the
relationship between time and an organization's ability to successfully
mitigate emergencies. One can readily determine from these models that the
window of opportunity to intervene for both fire and critical medical
emergencies is narrow. Recognition must be given to the time it takes to
become aware of the situation.
In the instance of residential dwelling fires as shown through fire modeling
studies temperatures can reach nearly 600 degrees within 5 minutes of open
flame. From this point of awareness, conditions deteriorate rapidly, flashover
occurs and the chance for survivability is nearly eliminated. Another factor
that should be noted is the development of toxic gasses and their effect on life-
safety. In tests conducted by the Southwestern Research Institute, it was
found that when flashover occurred, there was not only a significant increase
in toxic hazards in the room of origin, but also in adjacent rooms.
1600
1400 The Exact Temperature at Which
Flashover Will Occur Depends on Critical Point for Emergency
Contact Time and Heat Potential Medical Incidents as Brain Damage
,./1
1200 of Materials Will Likely Occur at 8 Minutes With
Out Oxygen
•
1000
'1
�--
Tactical Goal of
800
� the Companies is
to APpiy an
Adequate Agent
600 S 0 Before the Fire
Reaches This
Point
400 �' I
Fire Growth with
200 _- I Auto Sprinklers
I
I ,
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Time In Minutes 1 t
Awns NMM tyAIONpsYh Lff Ort I low*Time lot W 40 110.4 Ws. M Mask W seam LM$
I
PSAP Hard Data Record
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 16
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775 `aik,
In a cardiac arrest, the greatest chance for survival resides within the
first 10 minutes of the onset of the event. In fact, if the time from
cardiac arrest to defibrillation is only five minutes, the patient's chance
for survival is reduced to approximately 25%. After ten minutes of
time from the onset of the cardiac arrest, without external
defibrillation,the chances for survival are almost zero.
w 100% --
I
c 807o -
14
4
a
V3 Cap 1
0mii 5min 10 min 15 min 20 min
T I M L TO DIIIPIIIRILLATION
Relationship Between Ventricular Fibrillation
Survival Rate and Time to External Defibrillation
Our approach to evaluating a fire organization contains several strategies, which are
unique to ESCG. Strategies utilized include developing a working relationship,
meeting with and discussing issues with as many key people as possible, completing a
very comprehensive evaluation, measuring results against acceptable industry
standards and good practices, and making quantifiable comparisons to other fire and
EMS organizations.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 17
ORGANIZATIONS OVERVIEW
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775
Fire Department Organization - Overview
Rural/Metro:
Rural/Metro is a private corporation founded in 1948. The corporation's stock
is publicly traded. Rural/Metro has been providing Emergency Medical
Service, and fire protection and ambulance service to Pima County and Oro
Valley since 1962. An eight-member board of directors governs the
corporation. Corporate offices are in Scottsdale, Arizona. Rural/Metro
generates revenue by charging a fee based upon the type of building and a
square footage cost. Rural/Metro also has a separate contract for ambulance
service, and charges a fee for patients transported by their ambulance. •
Currently, Rural/Metro has one fire station located within the town limits.
This station designated as Station 77 is equipped with one 1989 fire engine,
one ambulance, one brush truck, one hazardous materials/special operations
unit and one water tender. The tender is not approved for "lights and siren"
response. There is a combination of fire fighter/EMT's and
firefighter/paramedics for a total of four personnel located at this station,
however minimum staffing can be as low as two. Rural/Metro serves 7,121
home, approximately 68% of Oro Valley..
Rural/Metro also has a station(Station 76) at Magee Rd. The two personnel at
• this station routinely respond into the Town of Oro Valley. This station is
equipped with one 1996 fire engine and a 1986 Ladder truck, and serves as the
administrative offices for Rural/Metro's southern Arizona operations.
During the period from July 1, 1996 to June 30, 1997, Rural Metro responded
to 1226 incidents in Oro Valley. Of these total responses, 446 were for
medical emergencies, 599 "special duty responses", and 61 motor vehicle
accidents. During the same period, they responded to six structural
commercial fires, seven residential structure fires and two brush fires.
Rural/Metro provides dispatching services from a centralized location in
Tucson. Although the communications equipment is adequate, the building is
crowded for the functions being performed, and is not protected with
automatic sprinkler protection.
Approximately 82 percent of the properties in Rural/Metro serve area are
subscribers for service. Non-subscribers pay an unknown rate in the event of
a fire. The assessed value of the area protected by Rural/Metro is $
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 18
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775
41,k
Golder Ranch Fire District:
The Golder Ranch Fire District (GRFD) was created as a special district in
1977. The district has property tax powers under the laws of the state of
Arizona. GRFD is governed by a five member non-partisan board of
directors, elected by the residents of the district.
The GRFD covers an area of 70 square miles and approximately 20,000
population. Approximately one quarter of the Town of Oro Valley is
protected by GRFD. This portion of Oro Valley comprises approximately
40% of the fire district. The GRFD protects 2,180 homes.
Golder Ranch Fire District is funded like most municipalities; utilizing tax
revenues based upon the assessed valuation of the properties protected. The
assessed valuation includes the value of the land and improvements on the
land. GRFD currently assesses a tax rate of $1.89 per $100.00 secondary
assessed value. The assessed value of the area protected by Golder Ranch is
$ •
Golder Ranch Fire District has a station (Station 114) in the Town of Oro
Valley. The station is equipped with one fire engine, one water tender, one
staffed and one reserved ambulance, and one brush truck. There are one
supervisor (Lt.), two firefighters/paramedics, and one firefighter/EMT.
Golder Ranch also has a station (Station 110) at 3535 E. Hawser, which is
located outside the town limits routinely responds to the town. GRFD Station
110 is equipped with one 1991 fire engine (to be replaced by a 1998 Pierce in
June of 1998), two water tenders, two brush trucks, one rescue truck, one
equipment truck, and two ambulances.
GRFD provides dispatching services from an antiquated room at their Station
110. Twenty-four hour coverage is provided through a single dispatcher
working a twelve-hour shift.
Fire Department Management
Challenges of the Future
Rapid growth in Oro Valley is a major challenge to both organizations. This
growth is coupled with the limited municipal water supplies and the
inconsistency of building and fire code adoption within the Town of Oro
Valley.
Both agencies indicate that they need direction from the Town of Oro Valley
to be able to plan future station locations and staffing levels.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley,Arizona 19
ESCG -3565 Riverknoll Way- West Linn,OR 97068- (503) 655-7775
. : t4&,
Internal and External Communications
Rural/Metro:
One of the excellent areas of service provided by Rural/Metro is in the area of
external communications. The department is very active in the community,
sponsoring a number of annual events. Furthermore, the department has an
excellent working relationship with the local media and the Tucson television
stations.
The department is active in local civic organizations including the Oro Valley
Chamber of Commerce and the Oro Valley Police Department.
Internal communications are largely electronic based. Reports and information
is transferred to and from the stations via computer systems. This is
appropriate for an organization with 11 stations in the greater Tucson area.
Golder Ranch:
Internal communications within the fire department utilize traditional written
messages and oral communication between supervisors and employees. Due to
the small size of the organization, this should be effective. Although there is a
computer terminal in each station, the department does not have an internal e-
mail system or centralized data processing function.
The department publishes a flyer describing services and has the flyer available
in the fire stations. The department also publishes a newsletter, which is sent
biannually to the residents. The department strives to have monthly articles in
the local paper.
Capital Replacement and Improvement
Rural/Metro:
The Southern Arizona Fire Operations Division has an equipment and
relocation schedule for fire apparatus. The schedule indicates that the 1989
fire apparatus at Station 77 had the engine replaced in 1996. This vehicle is
due to be replaced in FY 98/99. The 1977 Tender at this station is scheduled
to be replaced in FY 99/00. The 1993-brush truck is listed on the replacement
schedule, but is not currently scheduled for replacement. The 1996 ambulance
is scheduled for rotation based on hours and mileage. The plan is designed
through FY 01/02.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 20
ESCG -3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn, OR 97068-(503)655-7775
Golder Ranch:
The department has developed a capital replacement plan for vehicles and the
buildings. The Board of Directors approved the plan in May 1997. The plan
extends through fiscal year 2003-2004. The plan assumes that the current
number of stations will remain the same and that they will be located at the
existing locations.
The vehicle replacement plan is designed to replace all front line fire engines
and ambulances with new vehicles over the next five years.
Personnel Management
Labor Relations
Rural/Metro:
Employees are not members of a union. Rather, as a part of the employee's
compensation package, employees are given an opportunity to participate in an
Employee Stock Ownership Program. Employees must be over 21 years of
age and work at least 200 hours in a fiscal year to receive an ESOP
distribution.
Some policies are corporate policies applied company-wide. Local policy is
determined by the Fire Chief, Assistant Fire Chief, District Chief and Human
Resources Manager.
Golder Ranch:
The represented employees are currently members of the IAFF local, affiliated
with the Northwest Fire District. The employees have petitioned the
International to form their own local. Chief Fink indicated that he has a good
relationship with the firefighters' union. The local's vice president (a GRFD
employee) was interviewed and concurred with this assessment. Policies are
developed by the Fire Chief and approved by the Board.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 21
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775
cAll)t
rte►
Disciplinary Process
Rural/Metro:
There was no policy provided. It was stated during the interviews that the
process is progressive from oral reprimand to termination.
Golder Ranch:
A progressive system is utilized, starting with an oral reprimand through
termination. A disciplinary action guide is published in the department policy
and procedure manual. Employee evaluations are to be conducted annually.
Application and Recruitment Process
Rural/Metro:
Career emergency response personnel are hired from current reserve
firefighters, and from the existing employee roles of companies that they
acquire. Rural/Metro also actively recruits chief officers from other fire
departments. Some senior management staff has been hired from outside the
traditional emergency services.
Golder Ranch:
Career emergency response personnel are hired from current reserve
firefighters.
Health and Safety
Rural/Metro:
Rural/Metro has a corporate Risk Management department at its Scottsdale
corporate offices. This department provides oversight and assistance to the
divisional offices. In addition to the assistance from the corporate office,the
Pima County Safety Committee has produced and published a comprehensive
booklet on the Safety Committee Roles and Responsibilities. This book has
chapters on: Training; Qualification and Continuing Education for Safety
Officers; Triage/Implementation of RIC team Program; Station Inspections;
Turnout Inspections; Equipment Inspections; OSHA Compliance Inspections;
Guidelines for On-call Safety Officer Program; Safety Officers
Role/Responsibilities on-scene; Safety Officers on Training/Drill sites;
Firefighter Accountability Systems; On-scene and drill site Rehab functions;
Role of Safety Committee in Scene Reporting, Reviews, and
Recommendations; Incident Tracking System; Safety Awareness Boards;
Scope of Monthly Safety Committee Meetings; and Typical Safety Inspection
Forms. This is an excellent tool for the Department.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley,Arizona 22
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775
Infection Control Program
There is a written Infection Control Program. Rural/Metro has a Designated
Compliance Program Administrator (DCPA) to document each exposure and
consent testing, counseling and confidentiality procedures. The primary
objective of the infection control program includes monitoring for compliance
through either direct observation or internal audits. There is no dedicated
washing machine for turnouts at the station.
Safety Committee
The Pima County Safety Committee is comprised of representatives from Fire,
EMS, Administration, and Fleet Services. A representative from each fire
station is a member of the committee. The safety committee meets monthly
with minutes distributed. Each operation is required to have at least one
qualified safety officer. Safety Officer qualifications are listed as a part of the
Pima County Safety Committee Roles and Responsibilities.
The monthly safety committee meetings are used to review accident reports,to
make inquiries into accidents, and to make recommendations to prevent
further loss. The monthly meetings are also used to follow-up on preventative
measures taken previously and to assess their effectiveness. Chief Hamby is
personally involved in many of the meetings and has reinforced the need to
follow specific safety policies and procedures.
Annual Physical Fitness Testing
The Safety Committee oversees the process of testing each firefighter's
physical strength and endurance. It is the Safety Committee's responsibility to
ensure that the testing process is conducted safely and fairly, with accurate
documentation.
New Product and Material Testing
The safety committee is a part of an ongoing process in which new or
improved safety related equipment and apparel is tested for durability and
effectiveness. Examples of materials tested by the safety committee are
helmets,turnout gear, fire resistive uniform materials,and personnel location
alarms.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 23
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775 `-
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Safety Officer On-Call Program
This program utilizes a designated and qualified Safety Officer to be available
24 hours a day to respond to major incidents and other situations that require
their expertise. Chief Hamby is in the process of obtaining a response vehicle
for the Safety Officer.
Golder Ranch:
The department's safety procedure covers Firefighter Health and Physical
Fitness, Safety in Training, Station Safety, Incident and Response Safety,
Survival Tips for interior fire attack, search and rescue, exterior operations,
and wildland fires.
Time is allotted during each work shift for physical fitness training. All
stations are equipped with weight training equipment. All suppression
personnel (including Chief Officers) undergo an annual PT test with a
minimum acceptable passing score.
All firefighters are equipped with portable radios. A passport system is
utilized for firefighter accountability. Accountability officers are identified by
function. It appears that structural protective clothing meets the intent of the
appropriate NFPA standards. Personnel have also been issued wildland
firefighter protective clothing and fire shelters. There is no dedicated washing
machine for protective clothing.
Staffing
Administrative and Support Staff
Rural/Metro:
The Fire Chief, Chief Financial Officer, Assistant Fire Chief, District Chief
and Human Resources Manager are assisted by administrative assistants.
The communications center is located in Tucson and has a dedicated
supervisor and shift supervisor.
There are nine personnel assigned to fleet maintenance services including, a
roving mechanic who visits each fire station approximately every two weeks.
Golder Ranch:
GRFD has a Fire Chief and one Assistant Chief. These two are supported by
one Fire Marshal/Fire Prevention Specialist(Captain), two office support
personnel, five dispatchers (with one of these a dispatch supervisor) and three
mechanics.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 24
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775
%I:6k
Emergency Response Staff
Rural/Metro:
Rural/Metro has 11 stations in Pima County with approximately 536
employees, covering 227 square miles. Staffing at Station 77 is a minimum
staffing of two firefighters. Total staffing is four firefighters with at least one
of them a paramedic. Staffing at the next closest station (76) is two personnel.
The only other station located in close proximity to Oro Valley is Station 75 at
Thornydale near Pima Farms. This station was not visited as a part of this
study. From Ina Rd north to the Pima County line, these are the three stations.
There is one on-duty command officer for the entire Tucson area.
Rural/Metro has mutual aid agreements with Northwest Fire District, Corona
De Tucson Fire District, Drexel Heights Fire District, Green Valley Fire
District, Mt. Lemmon Fire District, Rincon Valley Fire District, Three Points
Fire Department, Pasqua Pueblo Fire Department, Tubac Fire Department, and
Helmet Peak Fire District. Some of these agencies are under contract for
service provided by Rural/Metro. ESCG does not consider these contract fire
departments as viable mutual aid. Furthermore, some of the other fire
departments and districts are located a considerable distance from Oro Valley.
For the purposes of this study, we feel that the only viable signed mutual aid
agreement that can benefit the citizens in Oro Valley is with Northwest Fire
District.
Golder Ranch:
GRFD provides fire protection and advanced life support emergency medical
services, including ambulance transport, utilizing 39 career firefighters.
Staffing level at Station 114 in Oro Valley is one fire officer/EMT, two
firefighter/paramedics and one firefighter/EMT. Golder Ranch also has about
25 active reserve firefighters who can respond.
GRFD Station 110 (E. Hawser) is staffed with one fire officer, two
firefighter/paramedics, and two firefighter/EMTs, for a total of five personnel
on-duty. The department's two chief officers also are located at this facility
during daytime hours, and are available to respond at night.
There is no on-duty command officer. The chief officers rotate standby duty
of one-week on-duty, one-week off-duty, and respond from home during the
nights and weekends.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 25
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775
Currently 50% of Golder Ranch personnel are certified paramedics. By
September of 1998, GRFD anticipates that 60 % of their personnel will be
certified paramedics.
Golder Ranch has a signed mutual aid agreement with Avra Valley Fire
District, and Northwest Fire District. For the purposes of this study, we feel
that the only viable signed mutual aid agreement that can benefit the citizens
in Oro Valley is with Northwest Fire District. The City of Tucson has
indicated that they are willing to sign a mutual aid agreement with Golder
Ranch Fire District if Golder Ranch can guarantee a minimum of three-person
fire engines.
Utilization of Career and Reserve Companies
Rural/Metro:
Career personnel work 24-hours on duty, 24-hours off duty with one extra day
off("Kelly Day")per month. This equals a 64-hour workweek. Personnel are
trained to be dual-function, i.e., both firefighters and emergency medical
technicians or paramedics. There are two personnel assigned to the fire engine
and two to the ambulance. During brush fire season, or for response to
unhydranted areas, which are significant in Oro Valley, the personnel will split
up with one driving the water tender or brush truck. The two personnel at
Station 76 on McGee Rd. may respond with either the engine company or the
ladder truck. At times, Rural/Metro apparatus will respond to emergencies
with only one person.
Rural/Metro has 31 reserves in the north county area, which includes all of
metropolitan Tucson. Reserves are notified via alphanumeric pagers of
structure fires and other significant emergencies. The goal is to have the 20
reserves respond to incidents when paged. There is one reserve firefighter
who lives at the Oro Valley station and may respond with the apparatus if he is
available.
Rural/Metro also has 37 fire Explorers and 25 medical Explorers. These
teenagers can respond to incidents and assist, but are prohibited by Boy Scout
rules from actual firefighting or dangerous activities.
Golder Ranch:
Career personnel work a 24-hour on-duty, and at least 24-hour off-duty
schedule, which equates to a 56-hour workweek. Personnel are trained to be
dual-function, i.e., both firefighters and emergency medical technicians or
paramedics. There are two personnel assigned to the fire engine and two to
the ambulance.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 26
ESCG -3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775
$31411
In addition to the career staff, GRFD utilizes both volunteer and reserve
personnel. Reserve personnel are considered a promotion volunteer. All
volunteers are required to complete Recruit I and Recruit II, and be an Arizona
State Certified EMT, prior to promotion to reserve. Reserves are required to
work a minimum of two 24-hour shifts each month, and to respond to one-half
of call-ins. Reserves are notified via pager and respond either to the closest
station or directly to the scene of the emergency.
Capital Improvement Program
Stations
Rural/Metro:
Rural/Metro has indicated that they need to build three additional stations in
the Tucson area. There are currently plans to relocate Station 76
approximately one mile north and west. If the station is relocated, it should
improve response times to a portion of Oro Valley. However, none of the
other planned stations will improve service to the Town of Oro Valley.
Golder Ranch:
GRFD is planning a major remodel to Station 110 in FY 2000-2001. The
administration building was remodeled in FY 1997-1998. Golder Ranch is
planning one new station in Oro Valley. The district does realize that as
growth occurs, they will need to build additional facilities in Oro Valley.
Apparatus
Rural/Metro:
The Southern Arizona Fire Operations Division has an equipment and
relocation schedule for fire apparatus. The schedule indicates that the 1989
fire apparatus at Station 77 had the engine replaced in 1996. This vehicle is
due to be replaced in FY 98/99. The 1977 Tender at this station is scheduled
to be replaced in FY 99/00. The 1993 brush-truck is listed on the replacement
schedule, but is not currently scheduled for replacement. The ambulance is
anticipated for replacement in FY 99/00. The plan is designed through FY
01/02.
Golder Ranch:
The department has developed a capital replacement plan for vehicles and the
buildings. The plan which was approved by the Board of Directors in May
1997. The plan extends through fiscal year 2003-2004. The plan assumes the
current number of stations will remain the same and they will be located at the
existing locations.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 27
c;''' k
ESCG -3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn, OR 97068- (503) 655-7775
The vehicle replacement plan is designed to replace all front line fire engines
and ambulances with new vehicles over the next five years. Additionally, two
support vehicles will be replaced during this same period. Furthermore, the
plan includes the addition of an aerial ladder truck in FY 2003-2004.
Support Equipment
Rural/Metro:
The department has a mobile air support step van located at Station 73 on
Kolb Rd. Within the last month, the department relocated their
HazMatlTechnical Rescue truck to the station in Oro Valley. The unit was
formerly at a more central1zed location for all of Rural/Metro's response areas.
Golder Ranch:
The department has a mobile equipment/rehab truck which has a mobile
cascade air system for refilling self-contained breathing apparatus. This vehicle
also has a portable lighting system. This vehicle is located at Station 110 (E.
Hawser Rd.). There is a military surplus all-wheel drive vehicle used to gain
access if roads should be flooded or washed out. The department also has a
front-end loader and a mobile crane. A portable welder has been installed on a
trailer.
Methods of financing capital needs
Rural/Metro:
Capital needs is financed through revenue raised by the sale of stock, and by
reserves from subscriber fees. The company can also lease purchase or borrow
the money from commercial lending institutions.
Golder Ranch:
The fire district can use a variety of methods for financing capitol, such as:
Board approved bonds: a Board approved tax levy increase; lease purchase;
and financing through lending institutions.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 28
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775
Rural/Metro Emergency Response
• One fire engine with one paramedic/firefighter and one
Medical EMT/firefighter.
• One ambulance with one paramedic/firefighter and one
Total Personnel 4 EMT/firefighter.
• Two fire engines with a minimum of one
First Alarm Medical Paramedic/firefighter and one EMT firefighter on each.
• Two ambulances with a minimum of one
Total Personnel 8 Paramedic/firefighter and one EMT firefighter on each.
• Two fire engines with one paramedic/firefighter and one
EMT/firefighter each.
First Alarm Residential • Two water tenders with one firefighter each.
Structure Fire • One air-support vehicle with one firefighter.
• Two ambulances with a minimum of one
Total Personne114 Paramedic/firefighter and one EMT firefighter on each.
• One District Chief
• One Public Information Officer
• One Community Service Officer
First Alarm • Same as above plus a 75-foot ladder truck.
Commercial Fire
Total Personnel 15* * If reserve live-in is available.
• Two additional fire engines with one paramedic/firefighter
Second Alarm Structure and one EMT/firefighter each.
Fire • One additional water tender with one firefighter.
• One additional ambulance with one paramedic/firefighter and
Total Additional one EMT/firefighter.
Personnel 9 • One additional Chief Officer.
• One fleet services person.
• All Call for Reserve Personnel. (Number of reserve
personnel not included in the total).
• Two additional fire engines with one paramedic/firefighter
and one EMT/firefighter each.
Third Alarm Structure • One additional water tender with one firefighter.
Fire • One additional ambulance with one paramedic/firefighter and
one EMT/firefighter.
Total Additional • One additional Chief Officer.
Personnel 9 • One additional staff personnel.
• All Call for Reserve Personnel and career personnel.
• One Chief Officer to the Dispatch Center.
• (Number of reserve personnel and career callback personnel
not included in the total).
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 30
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Rural/Metro Emergency Response (continued)
Commercial Structures • Two engine companies each with one paramedic/firefighter
with Fire Alarm and one EMT/firefighter.
Sounding • Chief Officer notification.
Total Personnel 5
Residential Structure • One engine company with one paramedic/firefighter and one
with Fire Alarm EMT/firefighter each.
Sounding • Chief Officer notification.
Total Personnel 2
Still Alarm • One engine company with one paramedic/firefighter and one
(Nonstructural fire) EMT/firefighter each.
Total Personnel 2
• Two fire engines with one paramedic/firefighter and one
Hazardous Materials EMT/firefighter each.
Incident • Special Operations Apparatus with one firefighter
• Rural/Metro HazMat Team with 4 Technicians
Total Personnel 10 • Pima County HazMat Team (by special request)with 40
Technicians
• One Chief Officer
Technical Rescue • One engine company with one paramedic/firefighter and one
(Confined Space, EMT/firefighter.
Trench, Swift Water, • One ambulance with of one paramedic/firefighter and one
High/Low Angle EMT/firefighter.
Rescue) • Chief Officer Notification.
Total Personnel 12 • Team Notification
• One engine company with one paramedic/firefighter and one
Brush Fire(during fire EMT/firefighter each.
season) • One water tenders with one firefighter.
Total Personnel 6 to • One Brush truck with two firefighters, and one crew boss.
16 • Brush Crew notification.
• Two fire engines with one paramedic/firefighter and one
EMT/firefighter each.
Residential Brush Fire • Two water tenders with one firefighter each.
(used for reports of • One Fire Air Support apparatus with one firefighter.
brush fires endangering • Two ambulances with a minimum of one
residences). Paramedic/firefighter and one EMT firefighter on each.
• Two brush trucks with two firefighters and a crew boss each.
Total Personnel 20 • One District Chief Officer.
• One Public Information Officer.
• One Community Services Officer.
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Golder Ranch
The following are responses by the Golder Ranch Fire District into the Town of Oro
Valley. Dispatch times start when the GRFD dispatcher receives the call from the
Oro Valley Police or MEDS.
Golder Ranch Fire Responses
July 1, 1996 to June 30, 1997 Responses
Type of Incident Total Number Average Receive to Comments
of Incidents On Scene Time
Emergency 368 3 minutes • 41.6%of the responses
Medical within 2 minutes.
• 78%of the responses
within 4 minutes.
• 93.5%of the responses
within 6 minutes.
• 98.9%of the responses
within 8 minutes.
• 99.4%of the responses
within 10 minutes.
Fire/Public Service 355 4.8 minutes • 26.3% of the responses
within 2 minutes.
• 50%of the responses
within 4 minutes.
• 76.3%of the responses
within 6 minutes.
• 92.1%of the responses
within 8 minutes.
• 100%of the responses
within 10 minutes.
Total 723 3.9 minutes
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Golder Ranch Emergency Response
• One fire engine with one paramedic/firefighter and one
Medical EMT/firefighter.
• One ambulance with one paramedic/firefighter and one
Total Personnel 4 EMT/firefighter.
• Two fire engines with one supervisor and two fire fighter
First Alarm Residential EMTs/Paramedics each.
Structure Fire • One Ambulance with one fire fighter/paramedic.
• One Tender to unhydranted areas.
Total Personnel 12 • Rescue/support vehicle with two fire fighter
EMTs/Paramedics.
• Chief Officer
• Fire Marshal
• Two fire engines with one supervisor and two fire fighter
First Alarm EMTs/Paramedics each.
Commercial Fire • One Ambulance with one fire fighter/paramedic.
• One Ladder truck with two fire fighter/paramedics
Total Personnel 14 • One Tender to unhydranted areas.
• Rescue/support vehicle with two fire fighter
EMTs/Paramedics.
• Chief Officer
• Fire Marshal
Second Alarm Structure • Equipment special request from neighboring fire departments.
Fire
Third Alarm Structure • Equipment special request from neighboring fire departments.
Fire
• Two fire engines with one supervisor and two fire fighter
Hazardous Materials EMTs/Paramedics each.
• One Ambulance or Rescue/support vehicle with one fire
Total Personnel 8 fighter/paramedic.
• Chief Officer
• Pima County Regional Hazardous Materials Team with 40
personnel
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 33
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• Two fire engines with one supervisor and two fire fighter
Technical Rescue EMTs/Paramedics each.
• One Ambulance with one fire fighter/paramedic.
Total Personnel 11 • Rescue/support vehicle with two fire fighter
EMTs/Paramedics.
• One equipment truck with one or two firefighters/EMTs
• Chief Officer
• Pima County SARA team
• Two Brush trucks with one supervisor and one firefighter
Brush Fire EMT/Paramedic each.
Total Personnel 5 • One Tender.
• One fire engine with one supervisor and two firefighter
Brush Fire with EMTs/Paramedics.
Structural Exposure • Two-Brush trucks with one supervisor and one firefighter
EMT/Paramedic each.
Total Personnel 10 • One Tender
• Chief Officer
• Fire Marshal
Station Location and Needs
Rural/Metro:
R etro's Station 77 is located on Palisade and was constructed in 1996.
The station has a partial automatic sprinkler system. There is no standby
emergency generator or vehicle fueling tanks and pumps. There is little room
for expansion at this location.
Station 76 is co-located in the administrative headquarters building on McGee
Rd. We did not visit the fire station portion of the building. There is no
garage for the apparatus that is parked outside and next to a day care.
Golder Ranch:
Station 114 on E. Rancho Vistoso was constructed in 1991 and serves the
northern portionValley.of the Town of Oro Valle . The station is not equipped with
an automatic fire suppression system. The current station has little room for
additional personnel. There is no standby emergency generator or vehicle
fueling tanks and pumps.
Station 110 located on E. Hawser is small and in need of major renovation.
The station is not equipped with an automatic fire suppression system. There
is a manuallystarted standby generator and above ground tanks for fueling of
the department's vehicles. The administrative offices are located in another
building at this site. The department's training classroom/community meeting
room is in a separate building at this site.
Non-Emergency Servicesfor Oro Valley,Arizona 34
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Projected Community Development and Growth
Town of Oro Valley:
The Town of Oro Valley has provided the population growth projections. The
baseline population of 22,834 in 1997 increases to a projected 31,375 by 2002
and 39,285 by 2007. This is a 42% growth rate over the next ten years. The
town projects a population of 78,046 by the year 2045. Due to the already
developed areas, it is anticipated that the majority of the growth will be to the
north and west of the current developed areas.
There is one major resort development planned for the northwest portion of
the current town. Other major developments anticipated are additional
housing developments consisting of primarily single family residences.
Rural/Metro:
Rural Metro currently serves the southern 68 % of the Town. Most of this
area is largely built out. There will be some growth, primarily to fill-in
pockets of undeveloped land.
Golder Ranch:
The growth in the unincorporated areas of the fire district will continue in and
around the Saddlebrook development and along Oracle Rd.
Insurance Services Office Class Rating
The ISO rate is for insurance purposes. Insurance companies that subscribe to
the service may lower the insurance rates for homeowners and businesses
based upon the community's class rate.
Although a detailed discussion of The Grading Schedule for Municipal Fire
Protection is beyond the scope of this report, the following information should
be considered when using ISO Classes as a measurement of the effectiveness
of a fire department. The current ISO grading schedule reviews and correlates
those features that have a significant effect on minimizing fire damage. Credit
isg iven for existing fire protection, instead of debit for what is not in place.
The Fire Suppression Rating Schedule produces ten different Public
PP
Protection Classifications, with Class 1 receiving the most rate recognition
and Class 10 receivingno recognition. The Fire Suppression Rating Schedule
simply defines different levels of public fire suppression capabilities that are
credited in the individual property insurance rates.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 35
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The three components in the ISO grading schedule that are evaluated and their
relative percentage weight are, Water supply 40%, Fire Department 50%, and
Fire Alarm 10%. Water supply covers adequacy of the water supply for
quantity, pressure, and hydrant spacing. The community is evaluated to
determine which buildings will require large quantities of water (up to 8,000
gpm) for effective fire suppression. The fire department category includes
elements on staffing, distance for ladder trucks and fire engines, training
records, equipment carried on the fire apparatus, and access to reserve
apparatus.
The lower the grading, the better the insurance industry premiums for the
property owners.
Of the 28 fire flow water tests conducted by the ISO, only eight tests were
capable of flowing at least 1,000 gpm. The inadequate water supply limited
ten of these tests. Thirteen of the tests were limited by lack of adequate size of
the distribution mains. Twelve of the tests were limited by too great of
hydrant spacing. Several of the tests were limited by more than one factor,
with five of the tests limited by all three factors. Inadequate water supply is a
significant ficant problem in the portions of Oro Valley protected by Rural/Metro.
The in-ground water supply is not the responsibility of Rural/Metro, but rather
that of the water purveyor(s).
Rural/Metro:
The (ISO) rate within the Rural/Metro (North) Pima County area is a class 6.
The department was evaluated in June 1995.
Golder Ranch:
The current ISO rate within the Golder Ranch Fire District is a class five (5) in
hydranted areas and a class eight (8) in areas without hydrants. The
y
department was last evaluated in 1988, and is schedule to be re-rated in
November of this year.
Evaluation Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 36
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Incident Control and Management
Fire/EMS Dispatch
Town of Oro Valley:
The 9-1-1 emergency communications flow for the citizens of Oro Valley is
extremely convoluted. Presently when a citizen calls 9-1-1, the call goes to
the Oro Valley Police which serves as the Primary Service Answering Point
(PSAP). After the call receiver determines the nature of the request for
service, two separate paths may occur. For fires, the call receiver uses a "ring
down" phone to route the information to either Rural/Metro or Golder Ranch.
Each of these agencies then dispatches their own personnel and equipment.
If the call is a request for medical assistance, the call is routed to Pima County
Medical Emergency Dispatch System (MEDS), operated by the City of
Tucson. MEDS contacts the respective fire department then dispatches their
personnel. MEDS also functions as a radio frequency allocator to enable
paramedics in the field to communicate directly with either the base hospital
or to send telemetry signals to a hospital.
Rural/Metro:
Rural/Metro has a partially sprinklered dispatch center located in Tucson. The
center is staffed with up to 6 personnel. The center utilizes a computer-aided
dispatch (CAD) system to track equipment assignments, equipment
availability, and incident response times. A review of the data provided by
Rural/Metro indicates that generally dispatch-processing time is
approximately one minute. The dispatch center is located in a small building
that does not meet the NFPA or other industry standards for a dispatch center.
Golder Ranch:
GRFD provided its own dispatch facility in one small room at Station 110.
One dispatcher is on-duty. Each dispatcher works a twelve-hour shift. The
dispatch room in the station is not secure from unauthorized entry. It is not
protected by a fire suppression system.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 37
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Response Scenarios
Response time historically is interpreted by the fire service in many different
ways. It is critical that a common terminology be established in determining
the elements of response time. This standardization will allow for a
comparative analysis that is based on objective data.
The purpose of this section is to clearly identify the terms and descriptions
utilized when diagnosing the elements of response times to emergency events.
Furthermore, the section will give the Town Council a clearly established set
of events upon which policy and procedures can be developed and adopted.
In the field of cardiac arrest research, the medical community has an
established algorithm that is recommended as a base line measurement model
from which accurate analysis of events and time lines associated with a
cardiac arrest can be conducted. This guideline is known as the Utstien Model
andp rovides uniform reporting of data from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.'
The concept of the Utstien Model and Criteria can be used to develop a similar
baseline operation for fire and emergency medical service organizations. The
baseline can be used to define policies relative to the concentration and
distribution of fire companies, emergency medical service units, hazardous
materials response and other resources routinely dispatched to the scene of
emergencies.
The following table identifies the elements that constitute the individual
segments of an emergency response and the importance of time with respect to
intervention and institution of corrective action.
It is important to recognize that the individual time elements are critical
components of an organization's ability to positively impact the outcome of an
p
emergency event. Fire growth is exponentially based upon concentration of
fuels, elapsed time to intervention, atmospheric conditions etc. Similarly, in a
medical emergency, especially in terminal events such as cardiac arrest, the
elapsed time to effective intervention has a direct relationship in determining
survivability and ultimately, quality of life.
•
2 Recommended Guidelines for Uniform Reporting Data From Out-Of-Hospital Cardiac arrest:The
Utstein Style,American Heart Association,Special Report, February 13, 1991,Office of Scientific
Affairs.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 38
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Time Points and Time Intervals
Event Initiation The point at which factors occur that may ultimately
result in an activation of the emergency response
system. Precipitating factors can occur seconds,
minutes, hours, or even days before a point of
awareness is reached. A patient who ignores chest
discomfort for days until it reaches a critical point, at
which time the patient makes a decision (point of
awareness)to seek assistance. Rarely is it possible to
quantify the point at which event initiation occurs.
Emergency Event The point at which an awareness of conditions exists
which requires the activation of the emergency response
system. Considered the "Point of Awareness", it may
be the recognition by an individual that assistance is
needed, or it may consist of a mechanical or electronic
recognition of an event such as smoke or heat detector
activation.
Alarm The point at which emergency response system
activation is initiated. The transmittal of a local or
central alarm to the public safety answering point
(PSAP) is an example of this time point.
Notification The time point at which an alarm is received by the
agency. This transmittal may take the form of an
electronic or mechanical notification to the point at
which a call is received and answered in the PSAP.
Alarm Processing The time interval from the point at which a request or
alarm is received and transmitted to emergency
responders.
Turnout Time The time point at which responding units acknowledge
receipt of the call from the dispatch center. Total
turnout time begins at this point and ends with the
beginning of travel time.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 39
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Travel Time The point at which units are en-route to the call. When
responding from a fixed facility, the point at which the
apparatus exits the facility. Total travel time begins
with beginning of travel time and ends with the on-
scene time.
On-Scene Time Time point at which the responding unit arrives on the
scene.
Initiation of Action Time point at which operations to mitigate the event
begins. May include size-up,resource deployment, etc.
Termination of Time point at which unit(s)have completed the
Incident assignment and are available to respond to another
assignment or emergency request.
Total Response Calculated from the time point at which the alarm is
Time reported (notification) to the time point at which the
fire units arrive at the emergency scene.
Unfortunately, the data received from MEDS is not consistent with the data
supplied by both Rural/Metro and Golder Ranch. Furthermore, incident
PP
numbers are not consistent between the Oro Valley Police, which is the
primary PSAP and either fire organization. Consequently, ESCG is using the
time point of notification to the respective fire department as the starting point
to evaluate response times. It is recognized that there is additional processing
time for the PSAP to determine which fire department is the appropriate
responding organization, and for the notification to be transferred to the
appropriate fire department.
Travel time for emergency responders can be impacted by a number of
variables including topography, weather conditions, street design, and traffic
density. The topography of Oro Valley and the street design both adversely
ty emergency .
impact vehicle travel time. The washes without adequate bridges
and residential developments with curving and dead-end streets are both
detriments to emergency responders.
A four-minute travel time criterion is used as the benchmark. This allows for
a one-minute dispatch processing time and a 50-second turnout time, which
are nationally recognized benchmarks. Total response time should be less
than six minutes for emergency medical calls and six to eight minutes for fire
emergencies.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley,Arizona 40
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The response models are calculated using a 35-mph travel speed. The
assumptions are that the emergency response vehicles are located at the
respective fire stations. The computer models a map with a response ameba.
It should be noted that there is a large area to the north of Rural/Metro's
station 77 that is in the Golder Ranch Fire District,yet is within a four minute
travel time ameba from station 77.
The computer models indicate that both agencies have significant areas within
their response zones that are beyond the four-minute criteria. The majority of
these areas are the western half of the Town of Oro Valley.
Future emergency response stations are needed in the western part of the town.
Station locations should be based upon a maximum four-minute travel time criterion.
Fire Loss Data
Rural/Metro
The following statistics are for the portions of Oro Valley that are protected by
the Rural/Metro Fire Department. There was one fire in a building under
construction in 1995 that had an estimated fire loss of$700,000.
Year Population Structure fires Fires/1000 Fire Loss
Population
1995 14,657 20 1:02/1000 $938,125
1996 15,405 23 1:07/1000 $138,615
1997 15,835 16 $41,800
Golder Ranch
The following statistics are for the portions of Oro Valley that are protected by
the Golder Ranch Fire District. Fire loss estimates are for structure fires only.
The zero dollar loss from structure fires for four of the last five years is a
significant accomplishment. However, building construction and the
demographics of the population served are major contributing factors to this
very low loss ratio.
Year Population Structure fires Fires/1000 Fire Loss
Population
1993 3,000 0 0/1000 $0.00
1994 4 000 0 0/1000 $0.00
1995 5,000 0 0/1000 $0.00
1996 6,000 3 .5/1000 $340,000
1997 7,000 0 0/1000 $0.00
Department Maps (See appendix C)
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 41
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ESCG 3565
Training Program
General Training Competency
Rural/Metro:
All new Rural/Metro employees attend 290 hours of lecture and practical
training that certifies the individual as an Arizona State Certified Firefighter II.
In addition to the initial training, employees have access to an ongoing
continuing education program. Rural/Metro University (RMU) is organized
into six schools:
• School of Medical Services
• School of Fire Sciences
• School of Operations
• School of Business Development
• School of Management and Leadership Development
• School of Individual Productivity and Career Development
RuraUMetro also provides tuition reimbursement based upon the student's
grade in college level courses.
In 1997,career personnel assigned to Oro Valley(stations 76 &77)received
between 157 hours and 535 hours of training. North County Reserves
received between 69 hours and 188 hours of training.
Golder Ranch:
The recruit academy is conducted with the Tucson Fire Department and is
approximately 256 hours long. The academy consists of State Firefighter I&
PP .
II(NFPA 1001), Basic Wildland, HazMat First Responder, and Live Fire
Training.
Training Administration
Rural/Metro:
Rural/Metro has a dedicated human resources professional who oversees the
employee's personnel career growth path.
Golder Ranch:
A Training Officer(shift Lt.)oversees the training program and is responsible
for development of the training packets, evaluation quizzes and quarterly
company evaluations with the Assistant Chief.
Evaluationof Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley,Arizona 42
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Training Schedule
Rural/Metro:
Rural/Metro requires all full time fire personnel to complete a minimum of
two hours of fire related training each shift. A review of the training records
provided by Rural/Metro for individuals routinely assigned to the station in
Oro Valley indicates approximately 80% success in meeting this standard.
Golder Ranch:
Golder Ranch requires that career personnel achieve a minimum of 60 hours
of ongoing training during each quarter. This time must include six hours of
coordinated drills,three hours of night drills, 3 hours of multi-company drills,
four hours of driver training, and 12 hours of pre-planning. A review of the
training records provided by GRFD for individuals routinely assigned to the
station in Oro Valley indicates approximately 95% success in meeting this
standard.
Monthly training packets are sent out to each of the stations.
Training Facilities
Rural/Metro:
Rural/Metro does not have dedicated training facilities within Oro Valley.
Rural/Metro does use a creative alternative to fixed facilities. They have
developed a mobile training tower and a mobile burn facility, which are
scheduled in Oro Valley for one month each,two times a year.
Golder Ranch:
Golder Ranch has a dedicated training classroom at Station 1. The department
does not have a dedicated training facility or drill tower.
Golder Ranch is in the process of participating in the regional training facility
that has just been completed in Tucson.
Training Program Goals and Objectives
Both departments have adopted specific evolutions that are measurable.
Golder Ranch has 7 instructors that meet NFPA 1041 and three certified to the
level of Firefighter I&II Train-the-Trainer. In addition to the training
academy, all members allowed to operate emergency vehicles meet or exceed
NFPA 1002. All members have also had VFIS and/or Emergency Vehicle
Operators Course in defensive driving. All fire officers meet or exceed the
requirements for Fire Officer I as per NFPA 1021. Officers also attend the
State Fire Marshal's Captain's Certification Course.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley,Arizona 43
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Training Procedures Manual
Rural/Metro:
Rural/Metro has developed its own procedure manual.
Golder Ranch:
Golder Ranch has adopted the Tucson Fire Department's manual. The
department also uses the IFSTA manual series, which is nationally recognized.
Methodology Utilized for Training
Both departments use a combination of classroom and practical exercises.
Instructors are generally from within the organization with some outside
specialists used as appropriate.
Record Keeping
Rural/Metro:
Rural/Metro utilizes a computer database to maintain training records.
Golder Ranch:
Golder Ranch utilizes a manual entry system to maintain training records.
Personnel to be Trained
Both departments require career and reserve personnel to receive initial and
ongoing training.
Administrative Priority
We determined training to be a high priority in both departments.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 44
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Prevention Programs
Code Enforcement
Town of Oro Valley:
On December 6, 1995 the Town Council enacted ordinance (0) 95-85,
adopting the 1994 Uniform Building Code with amendments, the 1994
Uniform Plumbing Code with amendments, the 1994 Uniform Mechanical
Code with amendments,the 1994 Uniform Administrative Code with
amendments, and the 1994 Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous
Buildings with amendments. The Town did not adopt the 1994 Uniform Fire
Code at this time. The Town has adopted the 1991 Uniform Fire Code. They
have not formally granted fire code enforcement responsibility to either fire
department.
Rural/Metro:
Rural/Metro does not have legal authority to adopt or enforce either the
Uniform Building Code or the Uniform Fire Code in the Town of Oro Valley.
Rural/Metro does inspect buildings utilizing the 1994 Uniform Fire Code,
even though they do not have the authority to conduct inspections.
Golder Ranch:
Golder Ranch Fire District has adopted the 1994 Uniform Fire Code by public
vote. Pursuant to Arizona Revised Statute 48-805, in the 1996 November
General Election, the district brought before the voters the adoption of the
1994 Uniform Fire Code. Under this statute,a duly formed fire district is
allowed to adopt and enforce the fire code. The citizens of the district voted
91% in favor of the district adopting the fire code.
The district has adopted amendments to the Uniform Fire Code,which are
accepted by the State Fire Marshal. The amendments were presented at a
public hearing. The district's Board of Directors approved the final adoption
of the 1994 Uniform Fire Code with amendments on February 24, 1997.
New Construction Inspections and Plan Review
Rural/Metro:
Although Rural/Metro has no legal authority,they do receive and conduct plan
reviews that are received from the town or from developers. These plans
range in scope from residential developments to commercial structures to
water plans. Requirements and recommendations for fire flow, hydrant
spacing is based on building construction type, square footage, and whether or
not the structure is sprinklered.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley,Arizona 45
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Nationally recognized standards are also used in addition to the Uniform
Codes.
Due to the fact that some areas of the Town of Oro Valley have minimal or
non-existent water to meet the required fire flow, Rural/Metro has opted to
examine alternative means of fire protection. Some solutions have included
residential sprinkler systems, monitored fire alarm systems, above ground
water tanks, and utilization of swimming pools.
Rural/Metro is nationally recognized as a fire service delivery organization
leading in the promotion of residential sprinkler systems and monitored
residential early warning detection systems. Some of these features increase
the assessed value of a home or business; increasing the amount of taxes paid
for fire protection. However, Rural/Metro has taken the opposite approach in
rewarding the property owner for the investment in built-in fire protection.
The following are RuraUMetro discounts:
Residential
• Automatic Fire Sprinkler System (20%)
• Monitored Fire Alarm System(10%) -
Commercial
• Automatic Fire Sprinkler System(25%)
• Monitored Fire Alarm System(10%)
• Unmonitored Fire Alarm System(5%)
• Property located within 1,000 feet of a fire hydrant(with adequate fire
flow?) (10%)
Golder Ranch:
Golder Ranch uses the 1994 Uniform Fire Code to conduct plan review of
new construction. The scope of the reviews include residential and
commercial construction, fire department access, water supply, exiting, and
automatic suppression and detection systems. To meet fire flow requirements
several alternatives have been developed that are recognized by the Office of
the Arizona State Fire Marshal. These include residential sprinkler systems,
monitored fire alarms systems, above ground water tanks, and the utilization
of swimming pools. Existing residential inspections are provided upon
request.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 46
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Fire Safety Education
Rural/Metro:
Home Hazard Inspections:
In 1997, the department conducted 130 Home Safety Inspections in Oro
Valley. The department advises subscribers of the service as a part of the
letter sent to property owners regarding their need to subscribe to the
department. Upon receipt of the subscription, the Community Services
Officer sends another letter to the resident, again offering the service.
Fire Prevention Week:
The department visited Copper Creek Elementary School to conduct a"mini-
muster". This consists of five events:
• Fire Attack—Kids race opposing teams in dousing a make believe fire.
• Follow the Hose—Kids are blindfolded and follow a water hose to safety.
• Bucket Brigade—Kids are taught teamwork while passing a bucket full of
water and attempting to fill a reservoir before the opposing team.
• EDITH ((Exit Drill in the Home)—Kids roll out of their beds, crawl to the
door, feel the door for heat, crawl to the window, stop-drop- and roll, roll
through tires and end at their safe meeting place.
• Turnout Relay—Kids race in fire boots and a turnout jacket.
On-going Elementary School Programs:
• EDITH (programs) for the 3rd and 4th grade at Copper Creek Elementary
using a mobile home modified for exit drills.
• Standby during fire drills.
• Clown shows after school focusing on fire and pool safety.
Preschools and Day Cares:
• Firefighters visit all area preschools/day care centers on a regular basis.
• Firefighters visit Sunshine Preschool each year to read to the children,
during a month long program called, "Love of Reading".
• The fire prevention officers visit the preschools and day care centers to
teach -
StoP pDro -and Roll, 911, smoke detector sounds and testing, not
playing with matches, and the importance of having an exit plan and a safe
meeting place.
Golder Ranch:
Although there is not a school in the Oro Valley portion of GRFD's
district, a number of Oro Valley students do attend Coronado School.
Activities at this school are included.
Home Hazard Inspections:
Voluntary inspections at homeowner's request. Written inspection guidelines
developed and published in Procedures Manual.
Smoke Detector Installation and Inspection:
As requested, the department will install and inspect smoke detectors in
homes.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 47
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ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775 `
Fire Prevention Week:
Activities include classroom presentations at local schools, open houses and
tours at stations, lectures to groups and organizations, and mini musters for
children. Activities at Coronado School during Fire Prevention Week:
• Kindergarten- Fire safety activity and"stop, drop, and roll"
• First Grade- Safety activity and"stop, drop, and roll"relay
• Second Grade -"You Bet Your Life"game show
• Third Grade - "You Bet Your Life" game show
• Fourth Grade -"Fire Safety Jeopardy"Game
• Fifth Grade-Mini muster
Total: 23 classes, 636 students.
Other activities during Fire Prevention Week: Baptist Church Speech 120 in
attendance
Fire Extinguisher Awareness and Use Classes for Oro Valley:
8 classes 150 students.
Two Mini Musters: 68 in attendance.
OVPD Explorers station tour: 20 in attendance.
Five Residential Smoke Detector Awareness Classes: 18 in attendance.
Sheraton El Conquistador Country Club: fire engine and ambulance
demonstration 23 in attendance.
Sheraton El Conquistador Country Club Kids fire prevention day: 26 in
attendance.
Sun City Fair Fire Prevention Table: 150 in attendance.
Youth Fire Setters Intervention Class: four in attendance.
Medical Safety Education
RuraVMetro:
CPR: CPR certification to the entire 5th grade class at Copper Creek
Elementary.
Mock DUI: Cooperative program with the Oro Valley Police,the student
council and the faculty at Canyon Del Oro High School staging a mock drunk
driving accident. Over 92%of the students polled indicated that they believed
it was effective and would not get involved in drinking and driving.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 48
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775 )1%,
er
DUI Is It Worth It?A weeklong program at Canyon Del Oro High School in
cooperation with the Oro Valley Police Department. The program included
static displays, a student skit, and a demonstration with fatal vision goggles
that allowed the students to feel the effects of being drunk. There were no
reported accidents related to alcohol at both prom night and graduation in
1997. The department received excellent news coverage from several Tucson
television stations,which reinforces the message.
National Pool Safety Month: Firefighters go to apartment communities and
talk to residents about the importance of pool safety.
Annual Summary:
Home Safety Inspections 130 homes
Mini-muster entire 2nd grade class 250 children
CPR—5th grade class at Copper Creek 200 children
EDITH(House 3rd&4th grades Copper Creek 150 children
Snake Class 2nd& 5th grades Copper Creek 50 children
Clown Show After School Program Copper Creek 100 Children
Fire Drills Copper Creek 1,500 Children
DUI Canyon Del Oro High School 3,700 students
Day Care&Preschools 100 children
Pool Safety Talks 100 people
Golder Ranch:
CPR: Classes are offered three times a month,once at each station. There is
no charge for district residents,a$5.00 charge for non-residents. Classes
follow the American Heart Association guidelines. Fourteen classes in Oro
Valley with 238 in attendance.
Vial of Life: Vial of Life canisters are available for distribution at each
station.
Blood Pressure Checks: Available any time an individual comes to a station.
According to the Procedures Manual,there are many functions at which a
booth or other similar arrangements will be made,to provide complimentary
BP checks to the public.
Bee Awareness Class: A class to Sun City residents 23 in attendance.
Coronado School CPR/First Aid Demonstration: Presented to 6th, 7th,and
8th grades. Two sessions 420 in attendance.
DUI Is It Worth It?GRFD assisted OVPD, DPS and Rural/Metro in this
weeklong program.
Desert Creatures Classes: Three classes with 193 in attendance.
Health Fairs: Sponsored a health fair at the Sun City Fire Station and assisted
at the El Conquistador Country Club 370 in attendance.
Sun City Senior Olympics: Provided first aid table and standby 175 in
attendance.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 49
ESCG - 3565 Riverknoll Way -West Linn, OR 97068- (503) 655-7775 1 ti&
4 k
Existing Occupancy Inspections
Rural/Metro:
Rural/Metro serves 60 commercial occupancies within Oro Valley. The
department's goal is to inspect all commercial occupancies on an annual basis.
In 1997, the department inspected 57 of the 60 occupancies.
It is noted that the largest commercial occupancy (a resort) is within
Rural/Metro's area, but is not a subscriber. This resort has its own industrial
fire brigade and does not utilize Rural/Metro for emergency response or fire
inspections.
Golder Ranch:
There is an occupancy inspection form in the Procedures Manual, but no
written documentation of the program. There are 17 items to be corrected on
the form.
Golder Ranch Fire has a goal of having all inspectable occupancies inspected
by the end of 1998.
Community Affairs
Rural/Metro:
Snake Class: The department conducts a snake class to the 2nd and 5th grades
at Copper Creek Elementary.
School Standby: The department attends all home football games and
provides an EMS service for potential medical cases. Standby during
homecoming bon fire. Standby during the graduation fireworks show.
Community Events: The department participates in the Oro Valley Jazz
Festival, the Pumpkin Run and El Tour de Tucson with medical standby.
Easter Egg Hunt: The department, in conjunction with the Oro Valley Police
Department, sponsors an Easter egg hunt with several hundred participants.
Santa Ride: On Christmas morning, the department's vehicles drive through
Oro Valley communities with a firefighter dressed as Santa. The department
passes out candy to children.
Golder Ranch:
Each month the department submits articles or announcements to local papers.
Christmas Gift Drive: Collected toys for 286 needy children.
4-H Meeting: Held at the Sun City station for 25 students.
El Tour De Tucson: Provided medical standby and staffed courtesy tables for
this bike race.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 50
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775c°*
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Halloween Safe Stop: GRFD hosted a Safe Stop in Rancho Vistoso providing
children with candy, novelty toys, fire prevention goodies, drinks, and games.
Hoe-Down: Western Grill, Live Band and dancing at the Sun City Station.
Mentoring Classes at Coronado School: GRFD firefighters go to Coronado
School and recreation center about once a week to assist children with their
individual needs.
Oro Valley Great Pumpkin Fat Tire Race: GRFD provided a first-aid
station and a four-person Paramedic bicycle patrol.
Residential Assistance: Telephone answering machine programming, smoke
detector cleaning and battery change, automatic garage door repair, and golf
cart recharging help.
Santa Engine: Brought Santa through the neighborhoods of Rancho Vistoso
and Sun City.
Santa Golf Cart Parade: A GRFD fire engine led a parade of Golf Carts
through Sun City.
Sun City Halloween Costume Judging: Station 114 personnel assisted Sun
City residents by judging two costume parties.
Tucson Marathon: Provided EMS standby and staffed courtesy tables for the
marathon.
Vistoso—Helpful Hands: A short-term assistance program where volunteers
assist citizens in time of crisis.
Facilities, Apparatus and Equipment
Facilities Analysis and Inventory
The stations in Oro Valley for both departments are modern and generally well
equipped. The Rural/Metro station has automatic sprinkler protection in the
living quarters. Neither station has a standby generator for power outages.
Both stations are comparable and meet the current needs. Space for future
expansion is limited at both stations.
Evaluation of Apparatus and Inventory
Rural/Metro:
The apparatus is generally of modern design and appears to be well
maintained. A new motor was installed this year in the 1989 fire engine.
The brush truck is a 1982 model.
Golder Ranch:
The fire engine is almost new and the ambulance appears to be in good
condition. The water tender is a Golder Ranch built unit that is considered as
average quality.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 51
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-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775 .1
ESCG �4
Recommended Additions to Facilities, Apparatus and Equipment
ESCG recommends the following be added to each station:
1. A standby generator to provide power during electric service interruptions.
2. Fueling facilities for fire apparatus and ambulances.
3. An automatic sprinkler system should be installed. (Note: the Rural/Metro
station is partially sprinklered.
Recommended Reductions to Apparatus and Equipment
Rural/Metro:
No recommendations
Golder Ranch:
Golder Ranch presently has three water tenders. The fleet of tenders could be
reduced to one tender and rely more on mutual aid for additional tenders. The
reduction of tenders should not negatively impact the citizens of Oro Valley.
Hazardous Materials
Although there is little industry in Oro Valley, the use and transportation of
hazardous materials do expose the community. The chemicals being
transported along Oracle Rd. to and from the mine to the north are one
exposure. The Allied Signal facility on Oracle Rd., and the high school, are
two other locations with hazardous materials. In addition, common household
items such as swimming pool chemicals, insecticides and pesticides can create
hazardous materials releases that endanger residents.
Currently, the Town of Oro Valley has no control over the use or
transportation of these chemicals. The Uniform Fire Code gives the Town the
responsibility for issuing permits and inspecting these occupancies for the safe
use and handling of hazardous materials. Since Rural/Metro has no legal
authority to enforce the Fire Code, they have no legal authority to inspect
these occupancies.
If the Town desires, it can require each business that stores hazardous
materials to provide an inventory of the materials. Many communities make
this requirement to assist the local emergency responders and aid in land use
planning. This is also allowable under federal law SARA Title III, commonly
called the "community right to know law".
Both fire departments participate in a regional hazardous materials response
plan. ESCG recommends that this regionalized approach to providing a
specialized service continue. The Town of Oro Valley may wish to consider
issuing permits for the use and storage of hazardous materials as allowed in
the Uniform Fire Code.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 52
IMPLEMENTATION PLANS
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775 t1;*
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Recommendation Implementation Plan
Major Projects
Town of Oro Valley:
• Adoption of Performance Standards for fire protection and emergency
medical services.
• Development of a strategic plan for fire protection and emergency medical
services.
• Adoption of the 1997 Uniform Fire Code, Building Code, Mechanical
Code, Electrical Code, Plumbing Code and Abandonment of Dangerous
Buildings Code.
• Sign an agreement with Golder Ranch Fire District to provide fire
protection and emergency medical services in compliance with the
performance standard and strategic plan.
• Adopt a fire flow ordinance requiring adequate water for fire fighting to be
in place prior to any new construction.
• Sign agreements with the water purveyors holding them accountable for
improving the existing water systems to provide adequate fire flow.
• Consider adopting a sprinkler ordinance for all, new construction or major
remodels.
• OVPD assume responsibility for dispatching fire and emergency medical
services.
Rurai/Metro:
• Sign agreement with the Town of Oro Valley and Golder Ranch Fire
District to provide BLS transportation and ALS backup to the GRFD.
Golder Ranch:
• Work with the Town of Oro Valley to develop a strategic plan that meets
the Town's performance standards.
• Prepare to acquire land for new fire station locations.
• Prepare to acquire additional equipment to equip the new fire stations.
• Join with the City of Tucson in a regional dispatching agreement.
Terminate agreement with MEDS other than for frequency allocation in
talking with hospitals.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley,Arizona 53
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ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775 (#*
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Time Line for Completion
The time-line presented is an aggressive schedule provided to give the Town
Council guidelines for adoption of this study.
Town of Oro Valley:
• Adoption of Performance Standards for fire protection and emergency
medical services. March 30, 1998
• Development of a strategic plan for fire protection and emergency medical
services. May 1, 1998
• Adoption of the 1997 Uniform Fire Code, Building Code, Mechanical
Code, Electrical Code, Plumbing Code and Abandonment of Dangerous
Buildings Code. May 1, 1998
• Sign an agreement with Golder Ranch Fire District to provide fire
protection and emergency medical services in compliance with the
performance standard and strategic plan. June 1, 1998
• Adopt a fire flow ordinance requiring adequate water for fire fighting to be
in place prior to any new construction. May 1, 1998
• Sign agreements with the water purveyors holding them accountable for
improving the existing water systems to provide adequate fire flow.
• June 1, 1998
• Consider adopting a sprinkler ordinance for all-new construction or major
remodels. July 1, 1998
• OVPD assume responsibility for dispatching fire and emergency medical
services. May 1, 1998
Rural/Metro:
• Sign agreement with the Town of Oro Valley and Golder Ranch Fire
District to provide BLS transportation and ALS backup to the GRFD.
Golder Ranch:
• Work with the Town of Oro Valley to develop a strategic plan that meets
the Town's performance standards. May 1, 1998
• Prepare to acquire land for new fire station locations. September 1, 1998
• Prepare to acquire additional equipment to equip the new fire stations.
September 1, 1998
• Transfer dispatching to OVPD. May 1, 1998
• Join with the City of Tucson in a regional dispatching agreement.
Terminate agreement with MEDS other than for frequency allocation in
talking with hospitals. 1999/2000
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley,Arizona 54
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APPENDIX A:
STAFFING JUSTIFICATION 4 . [. ,
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775
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APPENDIX A
Staffing Justification
On-scene operations are critical to the preservation of life and property. Tasks
that are performed can be broken down into two key components - fire flow
and life safety.
The fire flow requirements can be based on the building: their size, structural
material, distance from other buildings, horizontal and vertical openings and
its contents. Fire flow requirements can range from 250 GPM to over 10,000
GPM. An ISO evaluation for communities with lower fire flow requirements
mostly residential and low-rise commercial buildings will usually require
fewer firefighters, engines, ladders and trucks. As the required fire flow
increases, the number of fire companies and the number of personnel on each
unit get larger.
Life related tasks involve the search,rescue and evacuation of victims. Life
safety tasks are based upon the number of occupants,their location,their
status, and their ability to take self-preservation action.
At a fire in an occupied structure, a minimum of 8 tasks must be
simultaneously conducted in order to stop the loss of civilian lives, stop
further property loss and to do so while keeping the risk to the firefighters at a
reasonable level.
The number and types of tasks needing simultaneous action will dictate the
minimum number of firefighters needed at different types of fires at the same
time. These tasks include: attack line; search and rescue; ventilation; backup
lines; safety officer; pump operator; and command functions. In the absence
of adequate personnel, the command officer must prioritize tasks and do some
of them in chronological order rather than simultaneously.
For a minimum risk hazard, fire agencies should respond with a minimum of
12 people for fire activities. Staffing and prescribed travel times for minimum
risk should not exceed 6 minutes for the first two companies and 10 minutes
for the additional units.
For moderate risk hazards, the fire agency should respond with 14 people and
prescribed travel times for moderate risk should not exceed 5 minutes for the
first two companies and 8 minutes for the additional assistance. For high-risk
Evaluation of Emergencyand Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 55
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775 `�
'1) 't
hazards, the fire agency should respond with 16 people and prescribed travel
times for high risk should not exceed 4 minutes for the first two companies
and 6 minutes for additional assistance.
Since the average response time from a fire's incipient stage to flashover is 5
minutes, the travel time selected for any fire agency should allow its
responding units to arrive before flashover in a majority of cases. Fire
discovered in a smoldering stage would give a department additional time
prior to flashover.
Response agencies and locations play an important part in calculating delivery
system capabilities and efficiency. The number of fire demand areas reached
within identical time standards must be validated. This response reliability is
an important consideration in evaluating a delivery system. Response
reliability is defined as"the probability that a new call be received while a fire
company is already busy on another call." It is critical that a department has
policies and standards that ensure the maximum utilization of available
resources within the jurisdiction of neighboring communities. Specific levels
of service should be described in these policies, practices and procedures.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley,Arizona 56
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APPENDIX B:
.t -
RESPONSE PLAN FACTORS
t:g
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775 `-11
l'*
APPENDIX B
THE DALLAS STUDY
FIRE SERVICE RESPONSE PLANNING FACTORS
Response Time- Fire Incident
Basic Factors Research Results
Elapsed time required for fire unit to get to Response time targets directly related to
fire scene once dispatched directly related design a fire protection system which can
to likelihood that responding(unit(s)will attack structure fires prior to"flashover"-
be able to control/prevent spread of the that point when all of the combustibles in
fire. Response time controllable through a confined area will ignite simultaneously
fire suppression system based on station as a result of temperature increase in a
location; availability of staff at a station to fire. "Flashover"normally occurs
respond when dispatched; and the between 6 1/2 to 10 minutes after ignition
geographic size of the"first-in"response with structural damage increasing as the
area for each station/engine company fire grows in a more or less geometric
assigned to those stations. Station progression.
networks in suburban/urban areas usually
design/configured to bring 80%-90%of There are five critical time periods related
area within a maximum response time of to attacking a fire prior to"flashover" -
five minuets for first-In units only one of which is directly impacted by
station location and response time as
defined at left. They are:
(1) Elapsed time between start of fire
and detection.
(2) The amount of time required to report
fire once detected.
(3) Elapsed time in the communication
center between receipt of the report
of the fire and notification of fire
suppression units.
(4) Response time for fire units -from
receipt of notification to arrival at
the fire scene.
(5) Time required for units to set up at
the fire scene and begin extinguish-
ment.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 57
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775
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egik
Only steps 4 and 5 are directly
controllable
by the fire protection system, and only
step 4 involves response time.
However,research completed by the
Seattle Fire Department has indicated that
within a range of three to six or seven
minutes, the size of the responding
companies may be more important than
response time in regard to the fire control
effectiveness.
Company Size
Basic Factors Research Results
Again, elapsed time is important in regard The comparative effectiveness of three,
to accomplishing necessary tasks four and five-person companies is least
considering the"flashover"discussion pronounced in the private, single-family
previously presented. residence fire and widens as the size of the
structure involved increases. Extensive
Another element that needs to be research conducted on this issue by the
considered is the likely size of fire to be Dallas Fire Department.
encountered. Large companies deployed
in a station network with basic 5-6 minute Training levels can partially affect
response time limits can deliver the manning differences, especially in fire
necessary level of manpower to a fire situations in a single-family residence.
scene more quickly than smaller
companies de-ployed across the same
network. Additional companies would
need to be dispatched from other stations,
requiring more extended travel distances
(and travel time).
Much debate about optimal company size.
Outside of the fire departments in very
large cities, effective levels of on-duty
staffing would appear to be four men for
each pumper and ladder trucks operated as
separate companies in high hazard areas—
high hazard defined as: high rise; high
levels of water flow required if fire;
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley,Arizona 58
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ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775
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usually involving industrial occupancies
and/or old, wooden,higher risk, large
structures.
In areas of ordinary hazards (single-family
residential, small commercial, larger but
sprinklered occupancies),three-man truck
and engine companies provide sufficient
personnel to accomplish fire fighting and
support duties.
Actual amounts of staff required at
specific fires is dependent on:
Size of structure
Combustibility
Extent of fire spread,all which combine to
determine the number of personnel and
apparatus required to"X"numbers of
gallons per minute to the fire and
accomplish support duties.
Response Time- Medical Calls
Basic Factors Research Results
Same basic issue related to fire response King County(Seattle), Washington has
- in the case of medical emergencies, onducted extensive research of impact on
elapsed times are focused on delivering arious response levels on patient survivals
emergency medical service in time to rates. Research corroborates response
enhance survival possibilities in life time targets as shown below:
threatening situations such as cardiac Cardiac Arrest Survival Based on
arrest. Most medical response systems in asic Life Support and Advanced
which fire services are involved as either Life Support Response Times
prime or partial service delivery are based BLS Response ALS Response Percent
on a"two-tier"response: Times Times Survival
0-4 minutes 0-8 minutes 43%
Initial response to provide basic life 0-4 16+minutes 10%
support within four to five minutes(again, 8-12 minutes 8-16 minutes 6%
influenced by the reporting, notification, 8-12 minutes 16+ minutes 0%
actual responsesequence).uence). Accelerated 12+ minutes 12+ minutes 0%
�
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley, Arizona 59
ESCG-3565 Riverknoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068-(503)655-7775
(,*
basic life support response is usually
achieved by training line fire company
personnel in basic life saving techniques;
dispatching the closest fire company to a
medical emergency; and having these
personnel apply CPR and other life-
saving/patient stabilization techniques
until paramedic level assistance arrives.
Providing advanced life support
(paramedic level—including the ability to
administer drugs,telemetry to transmit
patient vital signs to base hospital)within
8 - 10 minutes.
Some departments(e.g.,Redmond)
moving to enhance effectiveness by
training engine company personnel at
higher level (e.g.,defibrillation capability)
to raise results of basic life support
response.
Truck Company (Aerial Ladder
Basic Factors Research Results
Ability to maximize response capabilities Research conducted by the Dallas Fire
on structure fires involves obtaining a Department(referred to earlier) indicates
truck/aerial ladder unit within a specified that effective target for structure fire is
period of time to perform: roof response of truck unit within 8 - 10 minute
ventilation, elevated stream of water to time frame.
fire and additional persons for rescues.
Also relates to initial response capability
Basic decision factor involves getting Planning assumption, below.
truck unit within specified time period
either by staffing a dedicated unit, flexibly
staffing an engine/pumper, or obtaining
through automatic/mutual aid.
Evaluation of Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley,Arizona 60
knoll Way-West Linn,OR 97068- 503 655-7775 `�
ESCG 3565 River ( )
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t I•
Initial Response Capability
Basic Factors Research Results
Same basic issue as response time and Dallas Fire Department research indicates
company size discussion above. Decision that in response areas principally
factor relates to the number of people on comprised of single-family homes and
scene within a specified time period to be small (or sprinklered)
able to control the spread of a structure commercial/industrial occupancies that
fire (with in a range of detection/reporting minimum initial response of three engine
times), protect adjacent structures/areas companies required to accomplish
and effect rescue, if required. objectives listed left. This translates to 9 -
12 fire suppression personnel depending
on company size.
Emergency and Non-Emergency Services for Oro Valley,Arizona 61
Evaluation of g � g y
C
APPENDIX C: C
RESPONSE MAPS �_
Station Location Master Map
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Stations Four Minute Response Master Map
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1 \\-..... —"Illiii.---
Orange Grove Rd.
GR110—Golder Ranch Fire Protection District RM76—Rural Metro 4
GR114—Golder Ranch Fire Protection DistrictRM77—Rural Metro
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.r t b-(,)::--1-di 3-11—W
44101P-A. PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS
sr t,: 1
► .,,, of ARIZONA
61 E.Columbus Avc.•Suite 100-Phoenix,Arizona 85012•(602)277-1500-FAX(602)277=0003
Y
ci
To: Town Council,Oro Valley Chris Mega President
lin;Hill,Exec. VP.
From: Chris Medrea,President John Holland.S erreas
Professional Fire Fighters of Arizona
Re: Joint Powers Initiative
Date: March 11, 1998
Councilmembers:
_
Please allow me to introduce myself. I represent some 3400 fire fighters in Arizona who are
organized under the banner of the International Association of Fire Fighter's_ Our mission, in
addition to some of the roles traditionally ascribed tp labor, is to do whatever is necessary to
provide our customers (citizens) with the very finest fire and EMS service possible for their
jurisdiction_ --
To that end, I would encourage each of you to strongly consider the concept of a joint powers
initiative (JPI) that includes the Northwest Fire District, Colder Ranch Fire District and the
Rural/Metro Corporation. I have been heavily involved since the beginning of this concept last
summer, And am proud to say that the WI has excellent potential to provide absolutely top-
quality fire and EMS services for your town.
In a nutshell, the WI would leave each of these three entities in place. They would enjoy
common dispatching, automatic aid and.joint training to provide a seamless system for the•
citizens of Oro Valley; A system that would ensure that the closest, most appropriate unit(s)
would respond to whatever emergency arises_Minimum training and staffing levels for all would
be requirexl by the WI to ensure equalized service to the tom. Oro Valley would contract with
the WI for service, enjoying the very best of what each agency has to offer, and without a lot of
"political fallout"that would occur in any process of procuring any one agency for your town.
I to you urge each of give e
. very serious study and consideration to the WI proposal before making
final decisions on Oro Valley's Future for fire and EMS. It's in the best interests of your
citizens.
Steely,
•
Christopher J. Mcdrea
Tucson Local 479 Phe •- Chsedler, Glendale. Peoria. •..- x and cope Ctutple rs) Yuan Local 234 'num an bus and
Somerton Chapters) Flagstaff Local 1503 (Flaptatr and Memory Park Chapters) Bisbee Local 2106 Mess Local 2260 Globe Lacs/ 2273
Nom Local 2763 Lake Havasu Cay Local 2974 Apache Junction Local 3056 United Yays ai Local 3066(Chimp Vino Fzeseoo and CYP Chapters)
(nine Valley Local 3449 (Avondale .Tansy Mountain. Lavaca and Tolleson peas) Unifod pima Local 3504 (Drexel Het, Tbcso t Estates sod
Pasqua Pueblo Chapters) Norwest Local 3572 (Northwest, Golder Ra icl. Flowing Weis and Avra Valley Chapters)
Son City Local 3573 (Sun City sad Sun City West Clams) Colorado Rivet Local 3642 (Bullhead City and Ft. Mohave Chaps)
Sodom/Verde Valley Local 3690 (Sodom and Vcsdc Valley Chapters) United Emergency Medical Professions Local 1-60
3--) 9�
. News lielease •
U.S, Department of,Labor
Office of Public Affairs
Washington, D.C. •
Occupational Safety and Health
Administration
CONTACT: Frank KaneUS i�L: 8-04
FOR RELEASE Immediate
: Imme�. e
OFFICE: (202) 219-8151
AFTER HOURS : (703 ) 60
-� Thursday, January 8, 1996
3 -7080
LVc UDEs SAVThTGVE E F" ZG
•rr r-�,
OSHA IMPROVES RESPIRATOR PROTECTION
FOR r I� MILLION'
WORRSZN 1 .3 MILLION WORKS TES
Firefighters-battling indoor blazes are
among
the more
than°OG workers annually whose lives can be saved by revision of a2�-year-old standard on respirator protection, Secretary
cf L ab
or M. Herman announced todaY-
ago r
The strengthened respgator protection also is estimated to
prevent more than 4 , 000 injuries and illnesses nesses annually. The new
Occupational Safety and
Health Administration (OSHA) r ;
will cover about five million `'' � -equ+cements
n ���nerican workers in 1 , 3 million
establishments (mostly
manufacturing) in all
industry sectors
or.
. covered by OSHA except agr�c�_tuge .
"One of my tcp priorities is to guarantee e
healthful w forallof - -an�e� a safe and
workplace America' s worker
"This is a major step forward workers, " said Herman .
against in improving employee protection' substances .
ga i ns t toxic In addition to saving •
• sa lnc lives and
preventing injuries and illnesses, employers .
��111 real�,ze � o
u� t
$94 million a year in savings ;-
costs . " g on ink u_y and illness-related
Assistant Secretary of Labor
Health Charles for Occupational Safety and
harles N. Jeffress said, "OSHA, .
reduce injuries ands ultimate goal 1 s to
illnesses . Improving and �up
standards, as we did with this n - �-ng existing
goal . "
a one, is one way to reach that
-more_
-2-
The new standard reflects current respirator technology
w P and
b
etter ays to ensure they fit. The revised standard also
clarifies responsibility for administeringa
respirator program
and its provisions, adds definitions, and provides specific
guidance on respirator .selection, use, hazard evaluation, medical
o
evaluations, fit testing, and training.
The changes also will simplify respirator requirements
P by
deleting duplicated provisions and respiratorrevising -
related
other r -• -
related provisions in OSHA standards to make all of them
consistent .
It also addresses use of respirators in Immediately
Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLY) atmospheres, including
firefighting . During interior structural f refighting (�n- IDLH
atmosphere) , self-contained breathing apparatus is required and
at least two firefighters must enter and remain in visual and
voice contact with each other at all times . In addition, two
firefighters must be on standby if two firefighters are engaged
e
interior .a tr.ic u al firefightinc in the burning buildinc •
two-out") to. provide safety. This requirement will be
applicable to state and local government firefighters in the 25
states that
operate CSL -approved state plans through the
t; on of a n identical or "atleast as effective"
adoption standard.
Federal OSEA has no jurisdiction over such workers �
but ..t does
have jurisdiczic 1 over federal T'` who employees l o V e e s w ho i ' c h�_
. fires a n d
priva7.e-sector employees who fight fires (e . g. , those in
industrial fire brigades) .
Other major requirements of a respirator program as outlined the standard
are '
LI,I2LtIan_alaz with worksite-specific procedures to tailor
program to each worksite ,
',aar ev l i ;fi i an required to characterize respiratory
hazards and conditions of work to assist employers in
selecting appropriate respirators .
fed i ca l eva lua t iQn required to determine abilityof a
works
to wear the respirator selected.
• Fit test inc of tight-fitting respirators required to reduce
faceseal leakage and ensure that the respiratorsrov
p lde
adequate protection .
Traininc required to ensure that employees use respirators
safely.
Periodic Cr '
. _rogX- eva.lua�Lc required to ensure that
respirator use continues to be effective .
-more-
-3-
States and territories with their own occupational aI safety
and health plans must adopt comparable standards and
extend their
applicability to state and localgovernment employees
. , within six
months . , These states and territories include Alaska, '
Ari zona,
California, Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland,y nd, Michigan,
Minnesota, Nevada, No4 Mexico, North Carolina, OregonPuerto
� � uei to
Rico, South Carolina,
Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Virgin
Islands, Washington and Wyoming. g
Y g Connecticut and New York, whose
plans cover public employees only, also must adopt p a comparable
standard.
The revised standard will be published in the Thursday, Jan.
6, 1998, Federal Register. The effective date is April P l 8, Q 198 .
(Editor' s Note: See Attached Fact Sheets for Additional
Information)
# #
The text of this news release is on- the Internet World wide Web at
http://www.oshk.gov.
Information on this news release will be made available to sensoryimpaired
individuals upon re202-219-8151.
Pquest. voice hone: p
.`
._ Thursday
January
•
8, 1998
ffimaim ,O.IMI
Sa
MS i a r
LI maw
a
Ma
▪ ".�� al
✓
aim mal
a►
ON
aO..�
Si aMmumM INS
NOTES
WA a�
___,
.--,..:. _____
This section is only selectedportions
ns
OM Sam._
. of the January 8z 1998 Federal Register.
It contains the primary information-
r
relating to structural fighting,
-- ____
mow tem
.. Si a
ain
imtsi
_________
____
___
Part
_ -... _a
_________
______
__.._______
__________
Department �`
_ _
. .....,_„
Labor
Occupational Safetyand
:IN Sok MN Health
OM IMO /MO
Administration
29 CFR Parts 1910 and 1926
s =
a
Respiratory Protection; Final Rule
a
M.
..
OS a a.
Oft". a
■.. a r
MN, a r�
•
MB
SR
•
a
•
M OW ..
.. w
SO _
MIL
OM
MM
INmo
ms's t
SO
ar a a.
a a LI
.. a w
MO "on
AMM. i .PAWN
A.... =
Ammo..
a ..•
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a a '�
".1-.... .."."'
� r A
a
at 15
•
•
._ 1151
1152 Federal Register / Vol. No. 5 / Thursday, January 8, 1998 / 1 es and Regulations
DEPARTMENT OF LABOR the covered sectors. OSHA's benefits as the recipient of petitions for review
analysis predicts that the standard will of the standard.
Occupational Safety and Health prevent many deaths and illnesses Comments on the information
Administration among respirator-wearing employees collection requirements of this final rule
every year by protecting them from (see SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
29 CFR Parts 1910 and 1926 exposure to acute ) are to
p and chronic health be submitted to the Docket Office.
[Docket No.t-i--0-:91 hazards. OSHA estimates that Docket No. ICR 97-5, U.S. Department
compliance with this standard will avert of Labor, Room N-2625, 200
RIN 1218-AADS hundreds of deaths and thousands of Constitution Avenue. N.W.,
illnesses annually.The annual costs of Washington, D.C. 20210, telephone
Respiratory Protection the standard are estimated to be S111 (202) 219-7894. Written comments
AGENCY: Occupational Safety and Health million, or an average of S22 per limited to 10 pages or less in length may
Administration (OSHA), Department of covered employee per year. also be transmitted by facsimile to (202)
Labor. DATES:The final rule becomes effective 219-5046.
A=ON: Final rule: Request for comment April 8, 1998. Copies of the referenced information
collection request are available for
on paperwork requirements. • Compliance:Start-up dates for inspection and copyingin the Docket
specific provisions are set forth in p
SUMMARY:This final standard,which Office and will be mailed immediately
5 1910.134(n) of the regulatory text. to persons who request copies
replaces the respiratory protection However, until the Department of Labor q P by
-iP tele honin Adrian Corse at 2
standards adopted by OSHA in 1971 (29 publishes in the Federal Register the P g ythe02) 219-
C R 1910.134 and 29 CFR 1926.103), 7075. For electronic copies of
' control numbers assigned by the Office Respiratory Protection Final Standard
applies to general indLstry.� of Management and Budget (OMB),
construction, shipyard. Ion-shoring, and and the Information Collection Request,
affected parties are not required to
marine terminal ti��orkplaces. The comply with the new or revcontact OSHA's V�ebP
age on the
standard requires employers to establish Internet at http://wrwu,-.osrfa.gov/.
information collection requirements
or maintain a respiratory protection FOR FURTNcR INFORMATION CONTACT:
orog-r-am to protect their respirator- contained in the following paragraphs: Bonnie Friedman. Director, OSHA
wearing employees. The standard
1910.134(c) written procedures for Office of Public Affairs, Room N-3647,
selecting
contains requirements for program respirators, medical U.S. Department of Labor, 200
administration: worksite-specific
evaluations, fit testing, use of
Constitution Avenue, N.W..
r .-� ' r respirator A respirators, maintaining respirators I
p�ocedu.es: respirator selection: V`ashin_.on, D.C. 20210: T eleT_Thone
G �pG ; .. training, and periodically evaluating the (2 � 219- A , ,.
`.mployee training: fit testing: medical �-- „' (202) 81-8. For additional copies of
effectiveness of the program: (e)(3)--(6)
-valuation: respirator use: respirator this regulation contact: OSHA, Office of
medical questionnaire, examination b
Meaning, maintenance. and repair: and Publications. U.S. Department of Labor,
A and info physicianr
nation for the o
other p.r P o`isions. The final standard also
other licensePd health care professional
Room N-3101, 200 Constitution
simplifies respirator requirements for Avenue, :�.W., Washington, D.C. 20210:
employers by deleting respiratory �LHCP): (f)(I) fit testing: (i)(4) tagging Telephone (202) "��� � y
sorbent beds and filters: and (m)(1)-(2) P
F' 2 1 9-4 66 i.
provisions other OSHA health recordkeeping. of SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
and (4) Publication ► ^ �� INFORMATION:
standards that duplicate those in the the control numbers notifies the public
::nal standard and revising other that the OMB has approved theseP 1. Collection of Information: Request
:esai:ator-related provisions to make information collection requirementsfor Comment 3
them consistent. In addition. the under the Paperwork Reduction Act of This final Respiratory Protection
standard addresses the use of respirators 1995. Although affected par-ties will not standard contains information
i.. Immediately Dangerous to Life orP
have to complywith the revised collection requirements are j
cuir m�nts that subject
Health (DLH) atmospheres, including standard's information to review OMB under the Paperwork
:rite:for structural firefighting. Dunn n coll..�tion by
During Reduction Act of 1995 R.A95) 44
r,•oma � firefighting f.g. •. g , , requirements until these have been �' � ,,
to o: structural^,i. .ightinp (an IDLH approved by OMB, they must comply
U.S.C. 3501 et seq. (see also 5 CFR
a mosphe� by definition). self ,. } 1320). PRA95 defines collection of
with those requirements of 29 CFR
contained breathing apparatus is 1910.134 (OSHA's existingrespirator
information to mean, "the obtaining,
P
reeuired, and two firefighters must be protection standard) that have already
causing to be obtained, soliciting, or
on standby to provide assistance or been approved by the OMB under the requiring the disclosure to third parties
perform form rscue when two fir,.fighters are paperwork Reduction Act. Approved or the public of facts or opinions by or
:nside the burning PP for an agency regardless of form or
building. requirements include the written
Based on the record in this
program, emergency-use respirator format." [44 U.S.C. 3502(3)(.�)
rulemaking and the Agency's own certification records, and emergency-use The title, the need for and proposed
experience in enforcing its prior respirator compartment marking. use of the information.ation. a summary of the
respiratory protection standards, OSHA pcollections of information, description
Comments:Interested parties mayp
has concluded that compliance with the p of the respondents, and frequency of
final rule will assist employers in submit comments on the information response required to implement the
collection requirements for this P 9 p
protecting the health of employees q required information collection are
exposed in the course of their work to standard until March 9, 1998. described below with an estimate of the
airborne contaminants, physical ADDRESSES: In compliance with 28 annual cost and reporting burden (as
hazards, and biological agents, and that U.S.C. 2112(a), the Agency designates required by 5 CFR 1320.5 (a)(1)(iv) and
the standard is therefore necessary and the Associate Solicitor for Occupational 5 1320.8 (d)(2)). Included in the estimate
appropriate.The final respiratory Safety and Health, Office of the is the time for reviewinginstructions,
protection standard covers an estimated Solicitor, Room S-4004. U.S. gatheringand maintainingthe data
5 million respirator wearers working in Department of Labor. 200 Constitution eeded and completing and
reviewing
an estimated 1.3 million workplaces in Avenue, N.W., Washington. D.C. 20210, the collection of information.
•
Federal Register / Vol. 63 No. 5 / Thursday. January 8. 1998 / r ',.,s and Regulations b II57
employee health, or in emergencies.The these standards and theiration romul
revisions to the respirator standard dates are: Shipyards-29 P g OSHA's 1982 ANPR sought
PY CFR 1915.82, information on the effectiveness of the
made in this rulemaking are intended to February 20, 1960 (25 FR 1543):Marine current respiratory protection
ensure that,when employers require Terminals-29 CFR 1917.82,March 27. P e P uon
provisions, the need for revision of
employees to wear respirators to be 1964 (29 FR 4052);and Longshoring— thoserovisions, and the sub
of
protected from significant risk, 29 CFR 1918.102,February 20, 1960 (25 the revisions. staneResponses were receivede
protective respirators will be selected FR 1565). Section 1910.134 was
from 81 interested parties.The
and those respirators will be used incorporated by reference into OSHA's commentersenerall
g Y supported
d
effectively to meet their design Marine Terminals standard (part 1917) revising OSHA's respiratory protection
capabilities. Otherwise respirators will on July 5, 1983 (48 FR 30909). OSHA provisions andprovided sty P lection
not reduce significant risk.The has recently updated and strengthened suggestions for
gt approaches the Agency might take (Ex.
standard's provisions are designed to be its Longshoring and Marine Terminal 15).
fusible and cost effective,and are standards, and both standards On September 17 1985
expressed in terms of objective criteria incorporate 29 CFR 1910.134 byP . OSHA
and the performance desired. reference. announced the availability of a
Further authority is provided by OSHA did not propose to expand preliminary draft of the proposed
section 8(c)of the Act,which authorizes coverage of 29 CFR 1910.134 to Respiratory Protection standard.The
covered by 29 preproposal draft standard reflected the
agricultural
OSHA to require employers to maintain workplacesublic comme
certain records. Section 8(g)(2) CFR parr 1928, and this final p98 pts received on the May
authorizes OSHA "to prescribe such Respiratory Protection standard, like the 2 AI�rPR. and OSHA's own analysis
ro osal, does not 1 agricultural
of changes needed in the standard to
rules and regulations as (it) may deem pP apply to a g take into account the current
necessary to carry out its operations.The prior standard likewise state-of-
resporsibilities under the Act." did not apply to agricultural operations. the-art for respiratory protection.
(See 29 CFR 1928.21.) OSHA received Responses were received from 56
Irn
II. Events Leading to the Final no public cornent requesting change interested parties (Ex. 36}, and their
Standard g a g comments were reviewed in preparin
in coverage. Accordingly, the issue of g
res irator use durin a ricultural the proposal.
A. Regulatory History P g g On November
operations was not a part of this 1 S, 1,,Q
94, OSHA
Congress created the Occupational
rulemaking. OSHA notes, howeverpublished the proposed rule to revise 29
Safety and Health Administration go ever, that CFR o 0.134, and announced
(OSHA) in 1970, andgave it the respirator use during pesticide its
operations and handling is covered by intention to convene an informal public
responsibility for promulgating EPA's Worker Protection Standard, 40 hearing cn the proposal (59 FR 58884).
standards to protect the health and �
U.S.C. part 170, adopted under the The informal public hearing was
safety of American workers. As directed authorityof the Federal Insect A convened on June 6, 1995, pursuant to
by Congress e the Occupational Safety iced ,
Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, as notice and in accordance with Section
and Health Act of 1970 (OSH Act; 29 (7 U.S.C. 6(b) of the OSH Act, 29 U.S.C.. amended �. C. 136-136y). 6.�o(b)(3).
U.S.C. 651 et seq.), OSHA adopted Under OSHA'sprevious standard
4•} P Post-hearingsubmissions of data from
existing Federal standards and national employers needed to follow the parties at the hearing were received
consensus standards developed by guidance of the Z88.2-1969 ANSI through September 20, 1995.
various organizations such as the standard to ensure proper selection of On November 7. 1995. OSHA
American Conference of Governmental respirators (see discussion 59 FR reopened the recordFR 56127 60
Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), the ( ) and
58887). OSHA published an Advance requested additional comment on a
National Fire Protection Association Notice of Proposed Rulemakingstudyperformed
.` (?�+'F:'A), and the American National P (ANPR) P d for OSHA by Dr. Mark
to revise the respirator standard on May Nicas titled "The Analysis of Workplace
Standards Institute (ANSI).The ANSI 14, 1982 (47 ProtectionFactor
FR 20803). Part of the Data and Derivation of
standard Z88.2-1969, "Practices for impetus for this notice was OSHA's Assigned Protection Factors."
Respiratory Protection." is the basis of That
first inclusion of new respirator study, which was placed in the
the first six sections of OSHA's previous requirements in comprehensive rulemaking docket on
standard, 29 CFR 1910.134. P September 20,
substance-specific standards 1995, addressed the use of statistical
"Respiratory Protection.-The seventh promulgated under section 6(b) of the modelingfor determining respirator
section was a direct, g � �P
t complete Act, e.g.. fit tests; use ofpoweredAPFs. Comments e irator
air-
incorporation of ANSI Standard h 13.1- air- on the Nicas study
purifying respirators (PAPRs) upon were received through the end of
1969, "Ident:ification of Gas Mask request: change of the filter elements of January 1996.The Nicas
Canisters." OSHA's previous report, and
P a respirator whenever an increase in comments received in response to the
construction industry standard for breathing resistance is detected; November 1995 notice, have convinced
respiratory protection, 29 CFR 1926.103, employee
P ry p permission to wash faces and OSHA to deliberate further on the
was promulgated in April 1971. On respirator facepieces;and referral to a complex issues surrounding
February 9. 1979, 29 CFR 1910.134 was physician trained in pulmonaryestablishment of the
formally recognized as also being APrs.
medicine for an employee who exhibits The entire record including 200
applicable to the construction industry difficulty breathing, either at fit testing exhibits, more than
(44 FR 8577).Until the adoption of or during routine respirator use (see, e. itemsapproximately individual
these standards by OSHA, most 29 CFR 1910.10 P g. . and 2.300
25 (lead standard)).The transcript pages, was certified by the
guidance on respiratory protective respirator provisions in these substance- presidingadministrative
device use in hazardous environments specific standards took account of n nista rude law judge on
was advisory rather than mandatory. advances in respirator t June e 30, 1997, in accordance with 29
OSHA's maritime standards were changes ; P � ethnology and CFR 1911.17. Copies of materials
g in relatedguidance documents, contained in the record may be obtained
ohginally promulgated in the 1960s by particularly the recognition that from
N-
agencies that preceded OSHA.The standardized fit testingprotocolsthe OSHA Docket Office, Room original OSHA code designations of increase the effectiveness greatly 2439, U.S. Department of Labor, 200
of respirators. Constitution Avenue, N.W.,
1
1
Federal Register / Vol. 63 No. 5 / Thursday, ' nuar .. and�' �a �` 8, -�c�� / -� Regulat2ons 1185
Where very serious health effects may term andrevert the e individual from intends employers to interet the
arise from a single acute exposure, even escaping in time to avoid more �
if such effects become apparent only health consequences. OSHAserous respirator selection requirements in
after a relatively long latency period, therefore retained has paragraph {d)(I) proactively. i.e., where
in the IDLH definition employers are uncertain about
e.g., hours, days, or even weeks, the language that addresses the need the
atmosphere associated with the effect protect workers escaping d to adequacy of a given respirator for a
must be designated 1DLH. OSHA is dangerous atmospheres.
from highly hazardous atmosphere, cannot
g ospheres. identify the atmospheric
confident that deleting the word One commenter, Monsanto X. 54- concentration
"delayed" from the IDLE definition in 219).expressed concern � of a substance that poses a potentially
P about the life-threateningor health-impairingy
the f`inaI rule will reduce confusion but consistency of IDLH definitions in . risk,
will not affect the level of employee different OSHA standards. In response, or cannot maintain the concentration of
protection provided by the standard. OSHA has reviewed the definitions of such a substance below life-threatening
Many commenters urged OSHA to IDLH used in its standards and or health-impairing levels, the employer
adopt an DLH definition developed by that the final standard's believes must consider the atmosphere IDLH
definition is P and
another organization, agency, or by largely consistent with those thein select a respirator accordingly, For
OSHA itself in other standards. Some OSHA safe standards two example, an employer in a chemical
�
commenters (F.xs. 54-153, 54=214, 54- term: 29 that use the plant knows that inadve A
CFR 1910.146, the Permit- rtent releasss or
234, 54-251, 54-266, 54-278. 54-290, Required Confined S ar spills of highly hazardous chemicals
ace st
54-330, 54-36I, 54-363, 54-424, 54- P ., dard may occur at the facili and selec
("Confined Spaces standard ) and 29 ty is the
439) urged OSHA to adopt the ANSI CFR 1910.120, the Hazardous W most protective respirators available for
288.2-1992 standard's definition of Operations and EmergencyRe ante employees who must enter a spill area
DLH: "any atmosphere that poses an (HAZWOPER) standard.
Sponse because, in an emergency. there is no
Immediate hazard to life or poses Some commenters xs. 54-43�Q, 54-
time to take airborne measurements to
.-
immediate irreversible debilitating 330, 54-278) asked which DLH values determine whether or not the
effects on health" (clause 3.33). For OSHA endorses or pointed to the concentration is DLH. OSHA
example, Bell Atlantic (Ex. 54-361) limitations of the available - encourages this kind ofproactive
suggested that the ANSI definition be on IDLH inrormation
concentrations. For example, planning because it is protective of
used to ensure that -chronic toxins like OCAW noted that "only a handful of employee health.
asbestos would not be considered IDLH limits have been determined. Interior structural firefighting. The
IDL H." However, OSHA believes that most worker exposure, the In final respiratoprotection stand
adopting the definition contained in'the unknown. EveDLH limit is � and
when (anj DLH limit uses the OSH definition for "interior
��
current ANSI standard could reduce exists, workers do not have access to structural firefighting.' contained in 29
employee protection because it states this information. MSDSs rarely
CFR 1910.155, which applies to all
that atmospheres are DL�-I only in cases DLH information- -� include
situations covered
where the adverse effects of exposure The final rule (Ex. �4 --02). erect by Subpart L—r-:re
le does not contain a Protection. The definition is as follows:
occur immediately. An example of an prescribed list of DLH values or require Interior structural firefighting means
a nosphere that OSHA believes must be employers to rely on anyparticular list. physical s the
`o..s:tiered IDLT--I but arguably would Some commenters or
sl,�l ofa,.,,`Pt�. of fire suppression. rescue
(E.xs. 54-278, 54_ both, irsid,, buildings or enclosed
not be so designated under the ANSI 330, 54-361, 54-424, 54-439) structures which are involved in a fire
definition t bes is one criticized i e
containing high the IDLH values listed in the 1994 situation beyond the incipient stage.
concentrations of cadmium fume, which NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Loose-fitting face The may result in fatal collapse as long as Hssards (Ex. 54-278) or recommended standard now defines this term to mean
that the Emergency
s `�1`hTri,. final
8-72 hours after an acute T ,.
Response Planning a respiratory inlet coveringthat is
overexposure. Guidelines ,: �
The x} Corporation (ERPGs) developed under designed to form a partial seal with the
rP (Ex. 54-266) the auspices of the American Industrial face." This definition
objected to the phrase ability to Hygiene Association be usedinstead. was not in the
as,-anp.. in OSHA's � i..st,�ad. proposal. and has been added in
. proposed definition, OSHA is aware that published IDLE response to commenters
and suggested that OSHA instead adopt values are not available for A such as the
-�e ANSI definition, which does not industrial contaminants and A.Il-l. � ���� 54-208), 3`� fix. 54-218),
refer to impairment of the ability to employers� therefore rid that Monsanto (Ex. 54-219), Martin Marietta
referry p yers must therefore rely on their Energy Systems, Inc. (Ex. 54-4
escape. OSKA wishes to clarify that the own knowledge and judgment, andthat � , � 10)• and
aroposed terminology, -interfere with of safety and health rofessio OnC (Ex. 54-4�4), who recommended
an individual's ability to escape" was deciding that agivenPa rats, when that OSHA adopt several of the ANSI
not meant to cover a minor or even thepotential toa CallSe
has 288.2-1992 definitions for respirator
moderate degree of interference but to the ind t-Se health effects of terms. OSHA has adopted only part of
envisioned by OSHA's DLH the ANSI definition for loose-fitting
address interference of a kind definition. Duringenforcement
sufficiently serious to impair the r. facepiece. The phrase in the ANSI
P inspections, OSHA will continue to definition that states a
individual's ability to escape from accept anypublishedloose-fitting
exposure to a dangerous concentration based on DLH value that is facepiece does not cover the neck and
of an air contaminant.To address sound scientific evidence; shoulders, and may or maynot offer
those published by NIOSH and the head protection against
Exxon's concern, the final rule's AIHA would clearlyg t impact and
definition has been revised to read meet this test. penetration" has not been included.
• OSHA's final DLH definition does This phrase from i
'impair the individual's ability to not separately mentionP the ANSI definition
escape." OSHA notes that it is P y -potential- was not adopted as part of the OSHA
DLH atmospheres. Many OSHA definition bet
mPerative for employees to be able to enforcement cases ease adding this hrase
escape.There are atmospheres, for failurehave involved the would not allow users to clearlp
of employers to provide distinguish between hoods, y
respirators in situations that were not and loose-fittin het
example one contaminated with as
severe eye irritant, that can effectively ZDentered the
LH at the time wor=kers g respirators. It is
incapacitate an individual in the short area but became so thereaf important for employers to be able to
ter. OSHA distinguish loose-fitting from tight-
Federal Register / Vol. 63. No. 5 / Thu
rsday, January 8, 1998 / 'Iles I les an
d Regulations 1197
employees and require their use, The requirement
whether or not an OSHA standard certification for NIOSH suits have b
mandates use in the particular final is unconditional in the been successfully used for
mandates
environment.srespirator The preamble discussionu standard.as it was in the proposal.osal. many years' b The DOE administers its
However. because OSHA statedP P own job-by-job approvalauthority system for
relating to paragraph (c)(1) discusses proposed preamble in the these suits. OS '
employer-required respirator uses P that this OSHA's to enforce
requirement would applyonlyw the Agency's safety and health
more detail and explains OSHA's such respirators -exist- when standards atgaseous '
asons for reachingdthis conclusion. some P rs exist (59 FR 58901), owned byD diffusion plants
Paragraph d commenters urged OSHA to state States OE and leased to the United
( )(I)(ii) requires the in the regulatorytext Enrichment Corporation
employer to select aNIOSH-certified requirement for that the established legislatively rp °n was
respirator and to use the respirator onlyapplied q NIOSH certification OSHA has in 1 Sgt, and
in ways that comply with the only to existing certifications recently completed a
P Y conditions (See, e.g.,Ex. 54-434). For example, th memorandum of understanding with
of its certification.There was little Department of the e DOE on this issue (60
of i
controversy certification.
about this requirement.lit n u Army (Ex. 54-443) 1995). OS FR 9949,Jan. 31,
q t,and urged OSHA to permit the use of currently evaluatingsan
there is no disagreement that respirators respirators approvednot application from one of
must be tested and found to be effective situations by NIOSH in for a variance eSe facilities
where another authority has criteriarelating tO these suits. The
before they can be marketed.NIOSH has jurisdiction and the set out in Section
Performed this function in the past and documentation to OSH Act will 6(d) of the
attest to the adequacy of the respirator's OSHA govern this determination.
has begun to revise its certification
effectiveness is n
cti ene..s against the contaminant of acceptability°t determinzng the
requirements to ensure that its concern. The Arm of supplied air suits
procedures continue to define the y (Ex. 54--443D) stated part of this rulemaking as
that its employees and contractors may Proceeding,
performance capabilities of acceptable be exposed to certain " because the Agency believes the
P and to identify contaminant for which no NIOSH- g which can focus
unacceptable modes.The ISEAapproved respiratorH closer attention on the strep
unacceptable
the trade association (EX' 65- pP exists but for which limitations strengths and
on that military respirators, e.g., of these suits for the
represents most major respirator have specifically been gasmasks, particular use situations, is the
363manufacturers, urged OSHA to require
tested and are beingdeveloped and appropriate forum to decide +
that only NIOSH-certified respirators used by civilian OSHA notes that NIOSHthis -S-Sue.
P be and contractor personnel in operations is a minimum certification
used to comply with this standard, and subject to QSHA's urisdic qualification. The
other commenters agreed (Exs. 54-187 Army urged OSHA tion.The employer must still assess54-213, 54-387, 54-428). rd all whetherthe
approval authority of the criteria in this other selection
The wording of this provision of the
Secretary of the Army for militarystandard before it can be
final rule differs slightly from that of the respirators * * forwhich chosen for agar-,icular application.
no NIOSH example, as pointed outn- For
proposed provision.The proposal approved respirator exists" by an exchange
(Ex. 54- with Richard Duffy o f the International
have required that only NIOSH 443D). rnational
approved and r'� respirators be OSHA recognizes that there are Assotion of Fire Fighters (IAFF),
selected. For clarity, reference unique contaminant situations, suchNIOSH representatives acknowledged
t}, the to as that the employer
selected.
approved respirators has been those involving chemical warfaremust evaluate
lace agents, that involve primarily military whether Wit star NIOSH-certified equipment
"�p din the final rule y
-equii ement that respirators be used exposure and that may require rY will withstand the specific
Tnly in accordance with the conditions specialized respiratory protection environmental conditions for
Df their certification. NIOSH approves equipment. NIOSH certification for firefighting because NIOSH
consid flow rate
-espirators by certifying them: however, respiratory protections specific , requirements do not consider the
p cific to such stresses involved in firefighting.
some certifications contain conditions
hazards does not exist and is not likelyg ung. nor
:smiting the situations in which the to be forthcoming. OSHA also no does NIOSH currently evaluate
_espirator may be used. This is however, tl^',at, although the De ales, respirators for their ability to withstand
sometimes described as NIOSH of the Amy argued strongly for ent those stresses (Tr. 364-365).
approval" of the respirator for a
recognition o f Army authority SHA In his testimony at the OSHA
-_-,articular use. and approve respirators, °n 'to test hearings, Richard Du of the
P rs, the Department recommended IAFr
Increasingly, however, NIOSH does of the �'r Force commented that it uses ''at OSHA require that
_ot certify for specific only NIOSH-certified respirators. SCBAs used in firefighting meet the
p �ific uses. requested no exceptionP �' and requirements of the National
-o t example,tifyrespirators NIOSH does not currently OSHA (Ex. 54-443A, . Fire
-er~tify for use a airist will examine on a case-by-case) Protection Association's N 1981
liologi respirators hazards. Where gbasis those situations involvingliStandard on Open Circuit
NIOSH has civilian Apparatus (Tr. 455 . Breathing
:at specifically certified any respirator contractors whose employees ) This NFPA
NIOSH tested respirators wear non- standard establishes more
or use against the paled a particular
stringent
ontaminantpresent inbelieve protect employees that they performance criteria for SCB
As the workplace, adequately firefighting than those used in
employer must in a NIOSH- and that have been tested and approved NIOSH. izes that
used by
er tif`ted that has no by other Federal agencies for use NIOSH recognizes that its
against current 42 CFR 84 respirator
foals respirator its use against unique contaminants.
mat contaminant.prohibiting respirator A similar comment was raised by certification standards for may not be
pi.ator must DOE regardingradioactive protective enough for respirators
e appropriate for the contaminant's tive hazards (Ex. firefighting., used in
appyhysiaaform and chemical state54`215). DOE stated that, in the nuclearg g In an October letter
and industry, no NIOSH-certified to all manufacturersSand
to conditions under whichit will be ..rtified respirator partes, interested
exists for tritium applications , NIOSH technical
sed. All respirators must be chosen and developannounced its intent to
-Id used according to the limitationsworkers therefore must wear non- new 84. nmodules to
of approved supplied-air suits; this update 42 CFR$Q. One of the proposed
e NIOSH ce;-tificaticn,which appears •�,,..... ,
the , ; certification icao label. P equipment has been tested by Los t�... „ dl modules to which NIOSH
Alamos National Laboratory,
intends toS give priority treatment w'
ry, and the address SCB.4s, includingthelII
Federal Register / Vol. 6?. X10. 5 / Thursday, January� ry 8, Qo 1.,.,8 / 7 `': and Regulations
1223
Requiring fit tests for positive oecause these respirators
pressure respirators is also necessary '. P ors do not always protection that all kinds of tight-fitting
maintain positive pressure due to respiratorsprovide ing ng
because the consequences of facepiece overbreathingor physical the workplace.
leakage into positive pressure exertion.The
Industrial Safety Equipment Association Frequency of Fit Testing—Paragraph
respirators can be extremely serious. (ISEA)(Ex_ 64-363 su (fl(2)
Positive pressure respirators are usually ) PPorted OSHA s
worn in more hazardous situations proposal for fit testing of all tight-fitting Final paragraph‘(f)(2), like the
than respirators,stating that it was consistent Proposal, requires that fit testingbe
those in which negative pressure with the ANSI Z88.2-I992
standard's performed prior to an employee s initial
positive pressure respirators can be requirements. Fit testing for all tight-
use of a respirator in the workplace:
respirators are worn. For example, only re
worn in IDLH atmospheres. $y fitting respirators is found in clause whenever a different model,size, make
9.1.2 of the ANSI Z88.2-1992 respirator or style of respirator facepiece is used:
definition, there is little tolerance for
Standard (Ex. 81),which requires that and at least annually thereafter. Only
facepiece leakage in such atmospheres.
Positive pressure respirators with tight- the requirement to conduct fit testing
Positive pressure respirators also are
used when the concentration of the fitting facepieces be qualitatively or annually was disputed in the
toxic substance is many times greater quantitatively fit tested in the negative rulemaking. Commenters generally
than the permissible exposure limit Pressure mode.The National Fire agreed that some additional fit testing
Protection Association (NEPA)
Even where positive pressure respirators beyond an initial test was necessary, but
are worn in lower risk situations, they standards 1 S00 and 14Q4 also require opinions varied widely on the
are often selected because the hazardous that firefighters using SCEAs pass a fit appropriate intervals at which such tests
las or vapor in the atmosphere lacks test (Tr. 479). The American Industrial should be performed. A few
adequate sensory warning properties,
supported the fit testing of all tight-Hygiene Association participants, including the UAW (Ex.,
(Ex. 54-208) also 54-387), urged that
clearly a factor calling for the minimum g fit testing be
amount of facepiece leakage. Employees fitting respirators. Moreover,workplace requird every six months,since
also may believe that they can afford to protection factor studies conducted bychanges in weight, facial hair and
use less care in using a respirator that respirator manufacturers, NIOSH, scarring, dental �vork, and cosmetic
appears to be highly protective: they
surgery may alter respirator fit. The
national laboratories and others always UAW also stated that visual obs
may ignore seal checks and strap fit test subjects to reduce the effect of ervation
tensioning because they are relying on facepiece leakage that is unrelated to was not a reliable way to identify the
air flow to overcome any leaks. Fit design and construction (See, e.g., E . presence of these changes.
A number of commenters suggested
testing demonstrates to employees that 64-14, 64-36. 64-94).
-�:ositive pressure respirators can leak. that longer intervals, generally two to
This record has convinced OSHA that three years, would be appropriate. For
end offers an opportunity- for the
it is necessary to require the fit testing example, Allied Signal (Ex. 54-175)
employee to see, via quantification.
�'r•�at actions (e.g., bending at the ri•aist of both positive and negative pressure recommended "periodic" or "eve two-
tight-fitting resoira;ors. Even positive Years as the fit testing interval. Public
-king the head, talking) relating to fit
ill decrease protection. pressure respirators do not always Service Electric and Gas Co. (Ex. 54-
• maintain positive pressure inside the 195) stated that a "two year time frame
Similarly, although a negative or
,s=uve pressure user seal check is facepiece, particularly when facepiece
,
An ce strikes a Q
good balance berween safety
"�oortant to ensure proper and pr act: ,
r fit is poor, strenuous work is being concerns ��aiityThe Texas
• er donning and Chemical Council
�j ustment of the respirator each time it
performed, and overbreathing of the n`il (Ex. 54-232)erienc stated
.s put on, it is not a substitute for the respirator occurs (Exs. 64-94, 64-101). that, in its members' experience, "' s
)election of an adequately fitting Leakage must be minimized so that virtually no individuals fail fit tests a
-esairator fit testing. Most users consistently achieve the high year after initial testing for a given
�slevels ofprotection theyneed. Most chemical exposure using the same
e pirator through testing is preceded by a
. seal check. but experience with workplace use of positive pressure manufacturer's respirator." The Exxon
e pirator fit testing has shown t at atmosphere-supplying respirators Company (Ex. 183), in response to
individuals who pass this user occurs in high hazard atmospheres (e.a. questions asked at the June hearings,
:I check with what they think is an emergencies, spills, IDLH conditions, b reported that of the 230 emploveOs at
_quately fitting facepiece Very high exposures, abrasive blas tin their Baton Rouge refinery given an
::sequently fail their fit test due to where a high degree of certainty annual QNr I' in 1005, a year after r
�' initial respirator selection in their
oor respirator fit. As John Hale of required that the respiratoris Is 1994, less
,espir ator Support Services (Ex. 54-5) effective. Positive ens , maximally than one percent (two earn io e�
p ere respirators, cha. _ed their respiratori y �)
=Pd. -Yes, there is some information like negative pressure respirators, come size because of
D be obtained about gross facepiece-to- fail ^•g the annual QIti' Exxon sta,Pd
in a variety of sizes and models, each that fewA
-27_, leakage by performing these checks. with its own unique fit characteristics. employes change the size of
tit. there are no performance criteria, The only reliable way to choose an their respirator from year to year, and
sere is no known correlation between adequately fitting facepiece for an that "the data suggest that annual
-!e result of this check and respirator fit individual user from amon the quantitative fit-testing should not be
- performance * g necessary and such testing may be done
different sizes available is by fit testing. on a less frequent
A number of experts and consensus The problem of leakage basis than once per
-ganizations supported the proposal's facepiece fit can due to poor year." The Peco Ener
quirement for fit testingof P be minimized by 54-292) stated thatfes'Company (Ex.
all tight- choosing good fitting facepieces through showed is experience
ting respirators.The Washington State fit testingforpositive r g that a three year interval is
=partment of Labor and Industries pressure sufficient to ensure a proper
:-173), the Aluminum �^- respirator users. OSHA concludes that providedo P fit,
Company of the requirement to fit test tight-fitting that mandatory refitting h
merica ��. 54-317') and the United positive pressure respiratorsg g conducted if there are changes in the .
�to Workers (Ex. 54-387) endorsed fit appropriate is respirator user's physical condition.
sting for positive pressure respirators facepieces, to reduce leakage into Eastman Chemical Co. -� n- The
P and to improve the �� 54 --t }
recommended that the time limit be not
1242 Federal Register / Vol. 63. No. 5 / Thursday. January 8. 1998 / Rules and Regulations
means that employers must ensure that whether this condition results
employees in the respirator use area are contamination,structuralfrom notified before the standby personnel
defects,or undertake rescue activity and that the
wearing respirators that are in good wear.In a post hearing comment
working order. submitted by the North America empl°yet or designee then provide
The proposed rule would have n appropriate assistance for the particular
Insulation Manufacturers Association situation. Paragraph
�q),Kenneth Mentzer. (�(3)(vi) addresses
required disposables to be discarded at (NA
IMA).end of the task or workshift, Executive emergency equipment needed b the
Vice President,and others stated that standb erso Y
whichever came first (See paragraph OSHA should make it clear thatY P nneI so that they can
(g)(9) of the NPRM). A number of NIOSH- perform their duties effectively.
approved disposable respirators may be The prior standard. §I9I0.134
commenters (See, e.g., Exs. 54-309. 54- used when theyprovide adequate (e).did
307. 54-442) discussed the use of, q ate not distinguish between types of IDLH
and protection factors for the exposures
the criteria for discarding,disposable P p sures atmospheres. Instead,it distinguished
P encountered.The authors of this between IDLH and
respirators. OSHA has deleted specific submission also stated that NIOSH- potentially IDLH
references to the term"disposable"in approved disposable atmospheres. It stated that only one
the final rule and has instead required. P P le respirators provide standby person was necessarywhen a
q protection and have some advantages respirator failure "could"
in paragraph (p�(2)(iii), that employers over reusable respiratorscause its
replace, repair, or discard respirators if Richard Niemeier
(Ex. 176)• wearer to be overcome, but that standby
emeier of NIOSH (Ex. 54- "men" (plural) with suitable rescue
employees detect vapor or gas 437) recommended that dust-
breakthrough, a change in breathing dust-mist-fume dis osabl mist and equipment were required when
resistance, or leakage of the facepiece, or not be reused, on the oe respirators employees must enter known IDLH
grounds that many atmospheres wearing SCBA. Under this
identify any other respirator defect, of these models degrade in oil
before allowing the employee to return humid environments. mist and provision, at least two standby
� recommended that only work area. This requirement thus He also personnel were required for known
filters approved IDLH atmospheres (See, e.g.,
focuses on the need for respirators to under 42 CFR Part 84 be considered1995May 1,
function properly to provide protection use beyond one shift_ for memo from James Stanley, Deputy
Assistant Secreta p ty
to employees rather than on a time OSSA has considered all of these Secretary, to Regional
schedule for discarding particular comments in revisingthe language Administrators and state-plan
respirators. g ge in designees). In IDLH atmospheres where
p final paragraph (g)(2)(iii) to reflect a
Some commenters stated that airline respirators are used, the prior
more performance-oriented approach to standard required that
disposable respirators should be the replacement, repair, orq users be
allowed to be used until the physical. respirators. Nonetheless,� discarding of equipped with safety harnesses and
integrity of the respirator is have the responsibility, employers still safety lines to lift or remove them from
compromised, which maytake longer in paragraph the hazardous atmosphere and that "a
g (a)(2), to ensure that respirators are standb man
Shan one work shift (Exs. 54-190, 54- suitable for each use to u�hi Y or men," equipped with
193, 54-197, 54-205. 54-214, 54-222ch they are suitable SCBA, be available for
. put. [See also discussion in NPRM, 59
54-241. 54-253, 54-268, 54-271, 54- FR 58922 emergency rescue.
307. 54-357. 54-171). For example, The proposal would have required
Peter Hernandez, representing the Paragraphs (g)(3) and (g)(4)—Procedures that, for all IDLH atmospheres, at Ieast
for IDLH Atmospheres and Interior
American Iron and Steel Institute,stated one standby person, able to provide
that employees may perform 20 Structural Fire Fighting emergency assistance, be located
different tasks in a work day (Ex. 54- Paragraphs o outside any IDLH atmosphere, and that
307).The implication of Mr. Hernandez' rule �(3) and (g)(4) of the final this person must
contain requirements for respirator communicationmaintain
:omment is that workers who perform use in IDLH atmospheres. Paragraph with the employee(s) in
short duration tasks would have been (g)(3) addresses all IDLH atmospheres, the IDLH atmosphere.
-equired by the proposed requirement to and paragraph 4 The need for standby personnel when
.se many disposable respirators in additionalb P (g}( ) contains three workers use respirators
p the requirements applicable only atmospheres isclear. in IDLH
:nurse of such a day, which would be to the extra-hazardous environmentsP The margin for
nnecessarily expensive. Suey Howe, encountered during interior structuralerror in IDLH atmospheres is slight or
resenting the Associated Builders fire fighting.These two a nonexistent because an equipment
�d Contractors, recommended that which deal with requirementsP graphs, malfunction or employee mistake can,
mployees be allowed to keep their standbypersonnel for without warning, expose the employee
iisposable respirators in clean atmosphere outside the IDLH to an atmosphere incapable of
p re and communication supporting human life.Such
ontainers on days when the same task between those standbypersonnel and exposure
gay be performed intermittently may disable the employee from exiting
4 y be). Homer Cole (Ex. the respirator users inside the the atmosphere
of Reynolds atmosphere, are intended to ensure that immediate rescuet help and
letals Company stated that some adequate rescue capability require an if the
p b2lity exists in case employee's life is to be saved.
Workplace situations exist where the of respirator failure or so
nvironment is clean enou h for r me other Accordingly, the standard re uires that,
g eme.gency inside the IDLH whenever employeesq
work in an IDLH
isposable respirators to be reused (Ex. environment.
4-222). Randy Sheppard, Battalion Paragraphs (3 (i), (ii), atmosphere, at least one standbyperson
hief of Palm Beach CountyFire-Rescue require � ) and (iii) must remain outside
that at least one employee who communication the atmosphere in
.x. 54-442), stated that disposing of is trained and equipped with the employee(s)
EPA disposable respirators after each effective to provide inside the atmosphere.
rive emergency rescue be located n also traineds
se would be extremely costly for large outside the IDLH respirator that the standby personnel be
re departments that respond to many and that this employeePator use area, and equipped to provide effective
nergenc-y calls. He noted that these communication ' maintain emergency assistance.
spirators should be discarded, with the respirator A number of reports from OSHA'
s.inside the area.Paragraphs o� p OSHA s.
)vveVer, when they are no longer in (iv) and (v) require, res � P �(`') investigative files demonstrate the types
eir original workingcondition. pectively, that of failures that can wive rise to the
the employer or authorized designee be for immediate need
� rescues of workers in
1244 Federal
RegisterVol. No. 5 / Thursday, january 8, 1998 j
es and Regulations
portal water tower, a process that often should have a tel
a deadly atmosphere as a summon telephone or radio to This practice is consistent
result generatesof cleaning solution andpaint help and should not be with
expected to enter an IDLH environmentOSHA's interpretations of other
solvent vapors, employees often enter for rescue until a standards. (See letter of interpretation
the tower through different portals to additional help arrives the Hazardous Waste and P °n of
work levels. In suchfix. 54-6).The American Iron and Steel Response Emergency
a Institute p e Standard 29 CFR I910.I20
situation, there will be a need forgood �X' 54-307) agreed, stating regardingthe number
that the standby person should be in personnel when of standby
communications at each entry portal. communication withP eI present there is a
and more than one standby person the IDLH a the employee(s) in potential emergency): "�
would be needed to maintain adequate assist in atmosphere and be "able to operators who have (I) informprocess
communication and accessibili providing or obtaining effective incident command " * d the
Several commenters ty. emergency assistance."The American emergency of the
(Exs. 54-6, 54- Petroleum Institute g cY * " (2) [have] adequate
38, and 54-266) requested clarification �• 54-330) also PPE (3) [have] adequate training
the proposed requirements that stated that when the employee wears a and (4) employed he system.
respirator in an IDLH atmosphere, the maytake limited
. buddy system,
employers ensure that communication noted action
employer m once the
is maintained between the employee(s) est ensure that adequate emergency response team arrives.
in the IDLH atmosphere and the standbyProvisions have been made for rescue. employees would be restricted�� these
personnel located outside the IDLH OSHA agrees that standby personnel to the
p action that their training level allows
should contact the employer or *
environment. For example. Exxon (F�.x designee before undertaking " " this has been OSHA's
54-266) requested that OSHA make employer'slong
standing policy for operators responding
clear that, in addition to voice any rescue activities in an IDLH to emergencies " " ""McCue
communication, visual contact and atmosphere. Accordingly, final Olson;July 11, 1 Q46 IY to
hand signals may be used. In response, paragraph (g)(3)(iv) includes an Failure to follow such practices
paragraph employer or designee notification result in employee death. Scan
r� (g)(3)(ii) of the final rule g example,
Llanfies that visual, requirement. Although this requirement recently, one employee P '
I voice, or signal line y (No. 1) was
corzzmunication must be maintained was not contained in the NPRM a working inside a reactor vessel,
bet-we-en similar requirement has been included attempting
n the employee(s) in the IDLH
attern tin to obtain a sample of
atmosphere and the employee{s) located in other OSHA standards, e.g., the catalyst. He was wearinga supplied
outside the IDLH atmosphere Permit Required Confined Spaces respirator with an escape bottle. Parr
Under final paragraph standard. 29 CFR 1910.146, and the y Th,.
(g)(3)(iv), standby "attendant" infothe
employers must ensure that before Hazardous Waste Operations and reed
employee inside that it was time to exit
este:in an LDI " a
Emergency �o t�,
g environment to ge y Response standard, 29 CFR change the air supply cylinder:
provide emergency rescue, standby
'
1910.120. EV including this witnesses said the employee .Jo.
personnel notify the employer, J
requirement, OSHA is minting to the inside employee
y a q p 1) did not appear to hear this
designee authorized by the employer to need for the employer or authorized instruction. When the air supply
provide necessary assistance, designee to take responsibility became critical, other work pp y
ce, that they ry for workers outside
are about to the ID J '
enterLH area. The ensuring that rescue operations are yelled" to the inside employee to hurry
employer will have determined, in carried out appropriately, that rescuersoutside, by then, the inside employee
y de
aHvance, as part of the writtenare provided with proper ' •
respiratora as movingslowly and then fell. The
program's "�orksite-Specific procedures, equipment, and that employees are attendant tried to check the
the:he procedures standby personnel will adequately prepared to facilitate air pressure
pr and whom they musttate rescue while another employee, a bystander
notify in
attempts.
welder (No. 2), entered the vessel
rescue
situations. The employer's On the other hand, the notified without a breathingapparatus a
emergency response team may provide provision is not intended suggest
to help the inside employee rid tri�d
:he necessary support, or other standby employeesnto sug�,est that (bysNo. 1). The
should wait welder also fell down. Other bystanders
arrangements may have been made with indefinitely for their employerwere partially overcome bythe nitrogen
local firefighting and e or e air hos,�n
emergency rescue designee to res coming out of the vessel.
1peraonnel. The language used requiresg �, pond to notification The hose
g entering the on the respirator on the inside employee
:ha: the employer be notified ,,�.h;--�, ,. ID LN atmosphere
v.nen employe (No. 1) wasto ede inside (No. Neither the
provides the employer .� --� inside are in danger of ;
great flexibility succumbing and standby personnel are felt employee inside (No. 1) nor the
In determining who will respond to appropriatelytrainedwelder (No 2) was wearing
suchdetermining
emergency rescue situations. provideassistance. cand equipped to `ping a harness or
OSHA is aware that lifeline. The inside employee later died.
Paragraph (�(3)(iv) responds to thispractice is [OSHA citation
expressed by several' followed in fire fighting unscheduled text abstracts for
concernsinvestigations accidents
situations (See paragraph 6-4.4. NEPA g ns of accid�nts
participants (Exs. 54-6, 54-266, 54-307, 1500 standard, 1997.) involving fatalities
54-330)articiabout the obligation of standby In the majority of catastrophic g (one-or more) and
cases, however, rescuers should not trophia ids 1995 during calendar
].
personnel to provide effective J enter the IDLH environmentYears 1994 and 1995
emergency rescue. A number of until Once the employer
emergents emphasized that standbyreceiving some response to the p oyer or designee has
notification that rescue is necessary, been notified, paragraph (e(3)ne
personnel should not attempt any the employer orA �'� i.e., requires the employer
rescue
personnel
without makng sure that the designee should know aor designee to
provide the necessary assistance
:hat their own whereabouts are known emergency rescuers are entering, and appropriate to the
and monitored.Accordingagency response units should be on assistance situation. Such
to Exxon (Ex. their way to the incident. OSHA does not always require that
54 266). "the -stand-by- additional
y person should believes that these requirements are standby personneloenter the
Oe able to summon effective emergencyconsistenthazardous atmosphere:
assistance then prs thwith current industry the appropriateP ssta: c some cases,
f,
assistance.-and onlypher Seniuk of practice (Exs. 54-266, 54_ assistance could for
and with other 307' S4-6) example, the provision of emergency
assist Safety Management Company the OSHA,standards (e.g., medical treatment.
also stated that a standby employee permit-required confined spaces do need to If standby employees
standard). enter the hazardous
environment to perform rescue
Federal Register / Vol. 63, No, 5 / Thursday. January 8, 1998 / Rules and Regulations 1245
operations, however,the employer must the notes toara
ensure that those rescuers are fully these requirementP graph (g)(4) clarify that included in other paragraphs
protected. are not intended to rule. P graphs of the f nal
Final paragraphs interfere with necessary rescue
P graphs (g)(3)(vi) (A). {B}, o OSHA has previouslyrecognized
perations, and the extent to which the emergency g ed that
and (C) require that standby personnel standbyg nc situations an
and
appropriate standby
ment to personnel can perform other interior structuralY alogous to
minimize the to these ens functions, safegufire fighting require
duringrescuedanger personnel Paragraph 4 o f additional safeguards for employees
efforts.They stipulate that P �( ) this Federal involved in emergency res
standby employees be equipped with standard applies to private sector activities. For example, P°nse
pressure demands other positive workers engaged in firefighting through WasteOperationsP e, the Hazardous
pressure SCBA,or a pressure demand or industrial fire brigades, private g Response and Emergency
incorporated fire companies, P e (�AZWOPER)ir standard.u e of 29
other positive pressure supplied-air � Federal CFR 1910.120(q), requires
respirator with auxiliary SCBA, employees through Section 19 of the q q the use a
"buddy system" in responding to IDLH
according to final paragraph OSH Act,and other firefighters. It atmospheres. This
should be noted that Federal OS P s means that
(3)(Vz)(A).This requirement was HA's employees involved in
contained in paragraph jurisdiction does not extend to are to be organized such operations
P gt'aPh (g}(Z)(i) of the employees rg zed into workgroups '
proposal, and was not objected to by of state and local such a manner that each employee in
any participants.It is also consistent governments.therefore, public sector the work groupis of
with requirements in clause 7.3.2 of firefighters are covered onlyin the designated to be
25 observed continuously by at least one
ANSI 288.2-1992. states which operate their own OSHA- other employee in the work
The requirements that address approved occupational safe and health Paragraph Y 3 v group.
safety Para rap (q)( )( ) of§ 1910.120
appropriate retrieval equipment and state programs and are required to requires operations in hazardous areas
(g)(3)(vi)(B)-(C) are written in standards to these workers. These states in groups of two orusing buddy system
p-erfo(vi) )e-based language. and territories are:Alaska, Arizona, more: paragraph
(q)(3)(vi) of that standard specifies that
Established rescue procedures are well California, Connecticut, Hawaii, back-uppersonnel
known, and retrieval equipment is shall stand by with
Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, equipment readyto provide
readily available. OSHA therefore Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New or rescue. OSHA assistance
believes that it is necessary merelyto New York, North Carolina, has made clear that
Mexico, these provisions require
state that this equipment must be used
Oregon. Puerto Rico, South Carolina standby person to be more than one
e present.
unless its use would increase the overall Tennessee, Utah. Vermont. Virginia. The final standard '
:sk associated with entry into or rescue Virgin Islands, Washington, a is also consistent
grt and
with relevant National Fire Protection
nom the IDLH environment. OSHA Wyoming. Eighteen (18) o f these statesAssociation (NEPA scan
L:�knowledged in the Permit-Required :trimer certain circumstances ) dards. The
nc�.s also
is recognized international) as a
2onfined Space standard, 58 FR 4530, consider"volunteers" to bee clearinghouse for informationY
hat situations exist in which retrieval and thus mayprovide employees
g on fire
:nes harnesses, wristlets, anklets) private protection to prevention. fire fighting procedures, and
( may or public sector volunteer fire protection. A number NFPA an entanglement problem, firefighters,subject to s b�.r of
�s specially specific
standards require firefighters using
P yin areas in which air lines or interpretation of state law. State and SCBA to operate in a buddysystem.
lectrical cords are present in the work local government employees, NEPA 1404, "Fir stem.
leas in which the IDLH atmosphere
firefighters, in States including Containede Department Self-
a:curs. Most of the time, however,
which do not Breathing Apparatus
operate OSHA-approved state plans, are Program," states, in paragraph 3-1.6,
escue with retrieval equipment is
not covered by these requirements, that members using SCBA are tooperate
ftective, and much safer for the unless voluntarily adoptedin teams of two
�scuers (Ex. 54-428 . a Y for local or more,must be able
Paragraph ) applicability.
to communicate with each other
spirator use in the ultra-hazardous distinguish between P p 5ed rule did notaudible, physical, safety
interior structural guide rope, electaonic, or otherameans to
�ntext of interior structural fire fire fighting and othercoordinate their a
an text the requirements in this OSHA decided IDLH situations, cavities, and are to
grim ph reqply in addition to those inr to include separate remain in close proximity to each other
requirements for the former activity in torovide emergency assistance.
;ragr aph (gj(3). OSHA has included the final �e NF gg
standard inPA 60Q standar
,is provision in its standard in response to industrial fire brigadesstandard addressing
evidence in the record that safeguards requires in
sponse to the record evidence about that maybe adequate paragraph 5,3.5 that
e extreme hazards of this activity. q to for well-controlled SCBA -operate firefighters using
cra h and well-characterized IDLE situations in teams of two or more
g P (g)(4)(i} requires that workers are not adequate inWho are in communication
gaged ir, interior structural fire q the uncontrolledtion o each
and unpredictable situationpresented other * * and are in close proximity
;hung work.in a buddy system: at least bya burningto each other
o workers must enter udd thebuilding building.The firefighting case of anto provide assistance in
community already recognizes that one standard, emergency•"Although this
;ether, so that they can monitor each person which
ler's whereabouts as well as the work alone cannot be sent safely into industrial appliesesonly to
structure to fight a fire that is beyond fire brigades where
vironment. In addition, for interior Y firefighters are working '
viron I firefighting,paragraphr the incipient stage. The final rule'sin fixed
staffing requirements for fire figh • locations that are well characterized and
(4)(ii) retains the requirement that co fighting are have established
ire at least twohestandby tthat consistent with OSHA's current communications and
personnel enforcement practice for employers rescue systems, requires only one
side the MLR respirator use area, subject standby
. outside the fire area.Paragraph sn to federal OSHA enforcement, person outside the fire area,
d assure that firefighters will not be another standard. NFPA men
4)(iii) requires that all personnel subjectg "Stands
;aged int interior fire to any diminution in protection -Standard aln Fire Department _
; g;" SCBA respirators.structural as a result of the more flexible z Safety a;d Health
use rp � s. Finally, requirements for Programs,-
�DLH respirator use which addresses fire
p department safety and healthg
ro r
p ams
1246 Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 5 /
Thursday, January 8, 1998 / _ Q
�.s and Regulations
in the general sense, requires at least argued strongly for Provisions similar to safety and health program
first appeared in 1992, as a Tentative HAZw�PER standard for sector * = it p g in the public
SCBA users working in IDLH situations. would be unfortunate if
Interim to NFPA 1500 In his written the new respirator protection
,Into
requiring, in Amendment toh NF
that n testimon y P ion
Du stated y �`�' 75). Mr. Standard's ince relation of
(au least four members shall be that the proposed system' * _ _ the 'buddy
requirements in paragraph confused this issue ( O_
assembled before initiating interior fire, which would not �(2)(ii)' out for firefighters) (Ex 1871."••
fighting operations at a working have required the some firefighter � However,
structural fire."In 1.9.97,a working
finalizedbuddy system or that two standby organizationsg sed and
personnel be available outside the IDLH urged OSHA to abandon
the Amendment. Paragraph 6-4 of the atmos its existing requirement
current NFPA 1500 standard, "Members atmosphere,would place workers using standbye q for at least two
Operating at Emergency Incidents " respiratory protection in IDLH personnel. For example,
Truckee Meadows Fire Protection
addresses the number of persons situations at considerable risk.
The IAFF recommended that a District in Nevada (Ex. 384) stated that:
required to be present, and requires at minimum of 4 individuals iv'
duals be present
least four individuals, consisting of two th*resare circ�urristansaf where a three person
an time e employees are using SCBA in company can safely and efficiently
an IDLH atmosphere: two individuals to respond and aggressively attack a fire.
persons in the hazard area and two
individuals outside the hazard area, for work as Similarly, there are oc .
assistance or rescue (paragraph a team inside the IDLH cas,ons where
6-4.4). atmosphere and two identicallyadditional personnel and resources may
One standby member is permitted to trained required before initiatingan attack • •y=be
and equipped employees to remain emphasis must be practically call tact the
perform other duties, but those other outside toy placed upon
duties are not allowed to interfere with account for, and be available assessment of the risk at the time of arrival
the member's to assist or rescue, the team members and throughout the incident to determine
rriber's ability to provide workinginside theT resourcesthe
assistance or rescue to the firefighters r. 46IDH atmosphere and precautions needed.The
working at the incident (paragraph 6_ 4 69) The inside employees overriding concern should be ' r * safe
4.2). would use a buddy system and maintain egress or recovery of personnel should
direct voice or visual contact or be conditions change,regardless of the standby
In addition. a 1994 CDCIMOSI-;,-;le;-t,
tethered with a signala crew assembled.
tined "Request for Assistance in lin„ (Tr. 468-
Preventing Injuries and Death of 469)• A similar opinion was expressed by the
Firefighter," also recommends the use According to Mr. Duff ch,.se changes fire chief of Sparks, Nevada
Duffy Ar
were necessary: b1 49). (Ex. 54-
of a buddy system whenever firefighters
wearwear SCBAs�The recommendation to save workers'—s: cificall firefighters.— Even a comment from the Court of
: lives. Since 1570 • - y b '� Rockland Fire Training Cense;-,
1.4 16 members of Pomona,
f l.�F J have died in the line of duty. New York (�‹. 54--':55) recommending
Two firefighter should work together and Prohibitingemployers �
remain in contact with each other at all employees to work alone allowing removing the requirement for standby
Mmes.Two additional firefighters e while working in personnel from the final rule, noted that
form a rescueg s should IDLH, potentially IDLH or unknown
team that is stationed outside atmospheres ' ' in operations during a fire or
hazardou would have saved many emer genes
s area.The rescue team should of these firefighters' * _ • I f .. �-y. it is a standard practice to
be c,•-ained and equipped to begin a rescue a team inplace thatS Ii r,s � J there was utilize the team approach.-
rmined anyof the accounted for employees PP The
. firefighters in the while they were working in IDLH • =p�°�e~s comment went on to state, however', that
immediately
area fe assistance. -removing the
many more firefighters would have been g restriction of having
Similarly, in testimony on H.R. 1753 saved and 'be) alive todaypersons outside the IDLH s
before the on Economic (Ex. 75). allowingthe incidentand
and re the Subcommitteeucl Opportunities, Mr. Duffy described several incidents in flexibility
commander the
PP s. House which firefighters had been injured orhe lis'sheoseesmofit personnel around
of Representatives, 104th Congress ,. as or fit at a
g (July killed because of inadequate safe situ * * would ray given
.' ', 1 9Q5. Chainnan: Cass Ballenger), ractices .�
P , and particularly the failure to the sae r actually g at
::arold A. Schaitberger. Executive have specificfery o, our forces
individuals assigned to scene of a fire or e operating at the
.=assistant to the General President of the keepof track of employees in IDT H emergency.-believes'• As
atmospheres. For example, he referred discussed below, QS,he that
Fighters (l.�r;}. stated that "s x our to a recentp �-r'--d the requirements
Fight iz.ation understood from the outset which
occurrencein the final standardz
(Tr. 470) in allow enough flexibility
that the
regulation (?9 CFR 1910.134 A hi..h three firefighters died inside an safety. b fl�xib,lity to maximize
fie)] IDLH atmosphere. In this incident,
required firefighters wearing self- althoughOSHA concludes that, for
many firefighters were on the structuralfighting. interior
��ontained breathing apparatus and
scene, no one could account for the for f_re da buddy systemh
involved in interior structural fire three firefightersworkers inside the ID
operations to operate r a 'buddy who had been and at least two patmosphere
system,' with firefighters a e o overcome by the IDLH atmosphere. outsideatmosphere personnel
entering a Their bodies were later discovered , that are necessary.
ourning building and two firefighters inside the burnedIn fact, as noted above,
stationed outside the endangered area that building.It appears previouslyexplained OSHA has
for to ass ed out or rescue, and more stringent precautions, such as prior std dar p ped that under the
accountability purposes '� x for a buddy system and standby personnel general d and the thereOSAct's
The two- specifically assigned to keeptrack of thanduty clause, must be more
tnitwo-out talc has been the indust the one personpresent
standard in the fire service for over ry firefighters' condition, could have least tw i outsideandat
`ears. 25 prevented these deaths. o firefighters inside when
In addition, the Oklahoma conducting an interior attack on an
The record in this rulemaking interior stn
rov:
are strong support for including Department of Labor submitted structural fire. Accordingly,
comments stating that it supports a two_ in tspecial provisions have been included
:his requirement in the standard. i PP in this revisedA
Richard Duffy, Director finalostandard.
poses * ' Thstandard. Specifically, it stated that to clarify that firefighters alone e
-iealth and Safety for the International not entermay
.ssoclati of Fine Fighters IAF Although we are nota state plan state, during an IDLH atmosphere alone
�• we operate a fully functional OS ur ing interior structural personnel
re
and that t�vo standby g
personnel are
Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 5 / Thursday, January 1 uary 8, 1998 / Rules and Regulations g 1247
required for all interior structural fire Fire fighting ihi
righting.ghrighting. s a high-risk o ccupation outside the hazard area may be assigned
survivability for those who lose their commande •such as incident
does not believe that similar practices orientation or become r in charge of the
.ire necessary in better controlled and job.The terribledisabled on the or the safety officer. However, the emergency
toll among firefighters assignment of stand
differentg by personnel of
characterized IDLH situations,such as is recorded in man
those potentially arising in industrial many national other roles such as the incident
data bases.For example, for the period commander,safetyo
environments. In those cases,where 1980-1989. the NIOSH National flicer, or operator of
standby personnel can more easilytrack , fire apparatus will not be permitted if
Traumatic Occupational Fatalities abandoningtheir critical by
the precise movements of the respirator (NTOF) Surveillance tical task(s) to assist
users and communication mechanisms System reported in, or if necessary, perform a
278 deaths among firefighters caused clearlyjeopardizes rescue
are in place, OSHA believes that one just bywork-related J P the safety and health
standby person will often be sufficient, NIOSH traumatic injuries; of any firefighter working at the
although paragraph (g)(3)(i) clearly recognizes that this number is incident." OSHA has included
an underestimate because of the guidance regarding otherspecific
recognizes that some nonfirefighting .collection and reporting g g duties of
IDLH situations will require multiple byP rtirig methods used standby personnel under paragraph
standby personnel. SOF. which limit the kinds of (g,)(4).These duties are consist
• events recorded.Data collected by the OSHA's past enforcement policy
with
These additional requirements are p Ii and
necessary because fire fighting ranks �-- �for the period 1970-1994 report NFPA recommendations (NFPA
1,369 firefighter deaths, and data 1977 FA 1500,
among the most hazardous of all Edition; Section 6-4.x.2)•
occupations, and interior structural fire collected by the NFPA for the period It is important to have at least two
1990-1992 indicate that 280 firefighters standby people available so that in t
died in this 2-year period alone (1994 event of an emer en in w he
`fighting is one of the most dangerous
ire fighting jobs (See, e.g:,Jankovic et NIOSH g cy hich both
al. 1991).As the International Alert). OSHA believes that the members of the interior team need
requirements of this respirator standard rescue or other assistance,adequate
�.ssociation of Fire Chiefs (Ex. 54-328)
pointed out, "(t}he fire fighter is usually may prevent a significant number of personnel are available for rescue. As
)perating in a hostile environment these deaths and injuries. For example, Harold A. Schaitberger testified, "*
where normal systems, facilities, in a recent incident, a team of two The two-in/two-out rule has been the
)rocesses and equipment to ensure firefighters was operating inside a industry standard in the fire service for
afety have already failed."A very basic structural fire. Rapidly deteriorating over 25 years. It is also based on
iifference between firefighters— conditions occurred in which there was common sense. If there are two
►articularly those involved in fighting dense smoke. Confusion ensued and the firefighters inside a burning building
�terior structural fires—and employees team lost contact, resulting in one when a roof caves in, at least two
1 other occupations is that the work firefighter death. (Incident number 2; firefighters are required to assist and/or
(Testimony on H.R. 1783
its is always new and unknown. OSHA Investigations of Firefighter rescue them
irefighters do not report to a fixed Fatalities, 10/1/91-3/17/97;IMIS) In before the Subcommittee on Economic
canon or work in a familiar this situation, the need for additional and Educational Opportunities, House
�vironment. Heat stress also affects accountability and monitoring of of Representatives, 104th Congress (Jul
refighters differently than other firefighters during interior structural fire 11 1995. Chairman: Cass Ballenger)." y
'orkers. Petrochemical workers and fighting is clear. Multiple standbyWhenever possible, the
P use of the buddy
pose in other high heat-stress personnel and two-person teams inside System should also be maintained
:cupations, such as highway workers, an IDLH atmosphere are therefore during rescue operations.
to check for signs of heat Moreover, the "two-in/two-out"
necessary
in deal with issues such as heat stress
rough other options, including stress, other illnesses, disorientation, requirement does not take effect until
climatization periods for new malfunctioning of respiratory and other firefighters begin to perform interior
nployees, schedulinghigh exertion protectivestructural fire lighting.
g equipment, and to assist in g g. While the fire is
ork at night,and allowing frequent exit or rescue when needed (Smith, in the incipient stage, the incident
commander or other person in char
eaks (Smith 1996). Firefighters do not 1996)•
e
n these options, play conduct an investigation or "size
OSHA emphasizes that the •
.:ire fighting is also extremely requirement for standbyup.. the situation to determine whether
-essful mentally because of the sense not preclude the incidentpersonnel does the fire has progressed beyond the �'
personal danger and urgency commander y
g g cy inherent from relying on his/her professional incipient stage. During this investigative
search and rescue operations.A judgment to make assignments phase, the standard does not require
efighter regularly steps situations fire emergency.Al g during a two-member teams inside and
e others are fleeing, accepting intoa level requires g though the standardoutside
q es at least two standbypersons the structure. Similarly,lnothing in this
personal risk that would be during the attack on an interiorrule is meant to preclude firefighters
fire, i
acceptable to workers in most other there are obviouslysituations wherefrom performing rescue activities before
_upatloru, Psychological stress is more than two persons an entire team has assembled. If
ised by the firefighter's need to focus both will be required are fewer than four there
inside and outside the interior team members
the protection of lives and property, structure, a decision �� available, and an individual inside
well as the need to maximize his or made by ultimately to be burning structure must bethe
the incident commander. In rescued
own personal safety and that of his/ addition, as is the case under theimmediately, this rule does not prevent
coworkers. Tenants and others in previous respiratory the rescue from occurring, as e
process of being rescued have also standard, P �'protection to the regulatory textNote ;
one of the standby personnel However, rYfimakes clear.
n known to panic and attack may have other duties once firefighters begin
fighters to obtain air from the ties and may even interior attack on Ong g the
fighter's respirator in an attempt t to serve as the incident commander, interior structural
P According to OSHA's letter to Chief :
1248 1~ederas Register / Vol. 63, No.
/ Thursday. January 8, 1998 /
Wiles and regulations
requirements with regard to, for a � --_
ecause the deviCes will not deliver the by
e-sample, the number of persons on a assumed protection �:•:. respirator man
f ira truck or the size of a fire company. in unless they are kept Appendix manufacturer or in
P Y good working order."The PP B. or a recognized standard-
Rather, the 2 in/2 out provision maintenance setting organization
specifies only the number of firefighters and care provisions, which followed- should be
who must be the before theare divided into cleaning and e for appropriate
interior disinfecting,storage, inspection,- Tnf need apdropriate cleaning and
attack on an interior structural fire is repair, are and disinfecting roc
initiated. Firefighters may be assembled P essentially unchanged (with supported g p edures was also
from multiple companies,or arrive the exception of the cleaning and pP d during the hearings. For
at disinfecting provisions) from paragraph e ive o,James Johnson rofa Lawrence
the scene at various times.All that isLivermore
ed:
intended is that an interior attack (0 of OSHA's Prior respiratory National Laboratories
should not be undertaken protection standard. Some teStiroce
en until rearrangement and consolidation (infe c ing,st and schedules
sufficient staff are assembled to allow regulatory of the es for cleaning,
gu ry text and minor language disinfecting,storing, inspecting,repairing,or
for both buddy and standby teams, changese otherwise
These requirements are consistent have been made to this ise maintaining respirators; _ =are
with QS eq pastm enforcement oli paragraph to simplify and clan the program
elements of the re amatory protectiont and
OSHA relied policy. requirements as a result clarify emends which are important and are
the Iv'FPA. of comments addressed in the rule * *.I did
OSHA has iens on a basis for and concerns that were raised in personal evaluation some
determining an appropriate standard of response to the proposed rule, procedures recommended
disinfecting
Paragraph (h) l o f thed by several U.S.
care in fire fighting situations under the requires ) final standard respirator manufacturers.I found thatthey
General Duty Clause of the OSH Act, 29 res that employers provide each vary significantly.If you look in Appendix
U.S.C. 654(a)(1). In its interpretative is respirator wearer with a respirator that orB
of the proposed rule. the hypochlorite or
memoranda addressing requirements clean, sanitary, and in good workingbleach recommendation and the other
met are applicable togreq firefighters, order. It further requires that employers disinfectants aic outlined there ire certainly
used
OSHA use the procedures for cleanin and what is typically recommended and use
noted that occupational exposure to fire disinfectingg 184). d (Tr.
is dwell-recognized hazard, and that respirators described in
mandatory Appendix B-2 or, The Appendix 8-2 procedures
firefighters using SOBA in hazardous alternatively, P s can
atmospheres rnatZvely. procedures recommended used both with manual and be
p eres should be operating in a by the respirator m semi-
buddy system of two or more personnel. providedp manufacturer,
automated cleaning methods, such a
The Agency explained even such procedures are as those using speciallyadapted as
A's previous edthatprotection under effective as those in Appendix B-2. The dishwashers rs and was P domestic
respiratory P e,.�.on prior respiratory protection standard with most effective� hang machines. As
OS
standard, a minimum of four personnel required c_ive cleaning procedures.
ersonnel that employers clean and Appendix B-2 divides Proc,.aures,
should be used, with tu�o members disinfectrespirators the cleaning
r sir ators in accordant e with
inside the hardous area and two process into disassembly of
the maintenance and care provision of components, cleaningJ
members outside the hazardous area and disinfecting
paragraph (f), but offered no specific rinsing, drying. reassembly andtesting.
^b•
who are available to enter the area to t
guidance on how to �s�z.lg.
provide emergency' �
Recommended A
assistance or rescue procedures. Mandatory ,
perform ors these nded to mperatures for
:' needed. One memorandum also p aa,ory Appendix B-�
washing and hosing are given in
pointed out that there was m presents a method employers may use to Appendix B-2, as are instruc
comply with the cleaning and preparing effective disinfectants. for
prohibition against the outside standby disinfecting'
aisinfecsior nts.
personnel having other as paragraph
•-L1ng requirements of final OSHA has made minor changes
arson n l as incidentother duties,commandersuchors par ag,aph (h)(l). The procedures listed n the
safetsafetyin Appendix 8-2 were compiled standard.n of r exam l B-2 in the final
off-icer, as long as it would not p ed from For example, the cleaning
y
offi theseveral sources, including publications procedures listed thein
�- � -- safety and health of any of the American Industrial final rule are
`firefighter working at the incident if the ; dustr-ial Hygiene more consistent with
firefstanighter
personnel left those duties to association. ANSI Z88.2-1°92 (clause suggested in Clause theAnnex procedureso
A.4, Annex A), and NIOSH. Othera.sse A.4,d A those the
perform emergency assistance and ANSI 288.2-1992 stand
rescue operations. methods may be used, including those proposed, particularly and than
OSHAe o notes thatrecommended by the respirator temperaturesP ularly with regard to the
the requirements of
recommended respirator.
Additionally,to prevent
-�z,�4`gens (g)( ) apply In addition to the manufacturer, as long as they are damage to the re
equivalent in effectiveness cleaning, or. w b
requirements of OSHA's specific fire ss to the automated which
requir m standards,subpart L of 29e method in Appendix 3-2. Equivalent used bymanylarger hide inow being
pFR 1910. OSHA ao be^in effectiveness simply means that the secompanies, is
allowed as long as effective cleaning
rulemaking o intends those fire procedures used must accomplish the and disinfecting
negotiatedrotection standards in the near future. objectives set forth in Appendix 5-2, recommendedg solurious are used and
i.e., must ensure that the respirator is designed temperatures, which are
Paragraph (h)—Maintenance and Care of properly cleaned and g -u to prevent damage to
disinfected in a respirator components, are
Respirators
manner that prevents not
P damage to the exceeded.
This final standard for respiratory respirator and does not cause harm to
protection, in paragraph (h), addresses the user. Commenters (T.rxs. 54-91, 54-187, 54-
Several commenters 330, 54-389, 54-309. Tr. 6„5
he elements of respirator mss• 54--267, 54- supported ° ) generally
rid care that OSHA onmaintenanceare 300, 54-307) supported Pntena the need for a respirator
PP°rted the cleaning maintenance r
,sse care to the proper believesareof and disinfecting provisions in general approaches program but took differing
functioning and the inclusion of manufacturers' PP aches to the provisions proposed
-�spirators for the continuing protection
e employees. instructions in particular.The Americanin paragraph (h)o (1)cleaningii) dealing with
stated in the the frequency of
Ramble to the As OSHA Iron and Steel Institute (AISI), for 9 y and
r (59 FR 58923), disinfecting respirators.
a lax attitude toward this example, suggested the followingg P d ors. One commenter
part of the language: "Res-Respirators must �. 54-187) agreed with the novas
aspiratory protection program will p be cleaned provisions
spate successful selection and fit and maintained in a sanitary Proposed. Ot0 -s eco 54_208, 54-
T he cleaning procedures r rY Condition. 67, 54-91, 54-408) recommended eo a
more perforrr;anCe_oriented approach.
1270 Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 5 / Thurs
--day. January 8. 1998 / Rules and Regulations
Subpart 1--rAmendedJ Air-purifying respirator
Lam'
respirator with an p _ means a (See also Qualitative fit test
5.The authority citation for Subpart air purifying filter. Quantitative fit t Q and
I of Part 1910 is revised o read u cartridge, or canister that removesY P triest Qom.}
follows: specific air contaminants b Helmet means a rigid h res atop,inlet
g covering that also provides head
ambient air through the air-purifying rotection
Authority.Sections 4.6.and 8. element. P against impact and
Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 Assigned protectionpenetration.
(29 653.655.657):Secretary of Labor's g factor(AN) High efficiencyparticulate
U.S.C.U No. 12-71 (36 FR 8754).8-76 (41 FR [Reserved] filter p to air(NEPA)
9-83 (48 FR 3573 ). 1-90 (55 FR Atmosphere-supplying respirator 99 means a filter that is at Least
25059). 97%efficient in r
9033),or 6-96 (62 FR 111).as applicable.
means a respirator that supplies the removing
respirator user with bre PP monodisperse particles of 0.3
Sections 1910.132. 1910.134.and 1910.138 P breathing air from microme
also sued under 29 CFR part 1911. a source independent of the ambient a teras in diameter.The
Sections 1910.133. 1910.135.and 1910.136 atmosphere,and includes su lied-air quivalent NIOSH 42 CFR 84 particulate
also issued under 29 CFR part 1911 and 5 respirators (SARs) and self-cop filters are the N100, R 100,and P 100
U.S.C.553. breathing apparatusSC ntained filters.
(SCBA) units, Hood means a respiratory
6. Section 1910.134 is redesignated as
§ 1910.139 in subpart I and amended by Canister or cartridge means a P ry inlet
covering that completely covers the
container with a filter,sorbent, or head and neck and
revising its title and adding introductory catalyst, or combination of these items, portionsmay also cover
text to read as follows: which removes specific contaminants of the shoulders and torso,
from the air passed through the Immediately dangerous to life or
§1910 139 Respiratory for M. a health (IDI. means an atmosphere that
' protectioncontainer. p
tuberculosis. Demand respirator poses an immediate threat to life,
p for means an cause irreversible adverse healthwould
This section applies only to atmosphere-supplying effects,
Yesplratory protection against M. admits breathing respirator that or would impair an individual's ability
g air to the facepiece to escape from a dangerous lllty
tuberculosis and applies in lieu of only when a negative pressureg us atmos here.
9 1910.134. g is created Interior structural firefightingn P
inside the facepiece by inhalation, ears
'� the physical activity of fire suppression.
Emergency situation means any rescue or bo
7. A new section 1910.134 is added to occurrence such as, but not limited �. inside of buildings or
read as follows: equipment failure, rupture of t°' enclosed structures which are involved
P in a fire situation beyond the incipient
910.134 Respiratory protection. containers, or failure of controlP
equipment that may or does result in anstage. (See 29 CFR facepiece 1910.155)
This section applies to General uncontrolled significant Loose-fitting means a
:ndustry (part 1910), Shipyards g nt release of an respiratory inlet cover-in that is
PY (part airborne contaminant. designedg
1915). Marine Terminals (part 1917), Employee exposure to form a partial seal with
Longshoring (part 1918), and y P e means exposure face. the
to a concentration of an airborne
Construction (part 1 J2fi). 1lrfaxim;�rn use concentration
contaminant that would occur if the �MUC)
(a) Permissible practice. (1) In the employee were not using (Reserved).
control of those occupational diseasesprotection. respiratory Negative pressure respirator
(tight
caused by breathing air contaminated End-of-service-life indicatorfitting)means a respirator in which the
with harmful dusts, fogs, fumes, mists, means a system (ESLD air pressure inside the facepiece
y that warns the p is
uses, smokes, sprays, or vapors, the respirator user of thea raga negative during inhalation with respect
primary objective shall be to prevent end of adequate respiratoryPP ch of the to the ambient air pressure outside P
atmospheric contamination. This shall for example, protection, respirator. the
at accomplished as far asti feasible byapproaching P e, that the sorbent is
saturation or is no longerOxygen deficient atmosphere means
accepted engineering control measures effective. an atmosphere with an oxygen
for example, enclosure or confinement below 19.5% by volume. g content
the operation, generand local Escape-only respirator means a Physician
respirator intended to be used only for care pr an or a other licensed health
..entilat.ion, and substitution of less professional(Pl.HCP
crit materials). When effective emergency exit. )means an
individual whose legally permitted
Filter or air purifying element means scopeof
:ngineering controls are not feasible, or atom orient used practice (i.e., license,
�,�hile they are being instituted, remove solid in respirators to registration, or certification)
olid or liquid aerosols from the or her to independently�On) allows him
be
.ppropriate respirators shall be used inspired air. provide, or
pursuant to this section. delegated the responsibility
(2) RespiratorsFiltering facepiece (dust mask) means some allor P to provide,
shall be provided by a negative pressure particulate of the-health care services
`le employer when such equipment is respirator with a required by paragraph (e) of this
eto protect the health of the filter as an integral part Positivepressure res section.
ecessary
cessar . Theto employertheshall provide of the facepiece or with the entirerespirator means a
p o ide facepiece composed of the filteringtherespiratory
respirator inwhich the pressure inside
le respirators which are applicable and medium.
the respiratory inlet covering exceeds
citable for the purpose intended.The Fit factor meansthe ambient air pressure
mployer shall be responsible for the estimate a Quantitative outside the
of the fit of a particular respirator.
;tablishment and maintenance of a respirator to a Powered air-purifying
aspiratory protection program which typically P specific individual,and a respirator
estimates the ratio of (PAPR)means uses air-purifyinga
gall include the requirements outlined concenti-a • the respirator that a blower
(c) of this section. tion of a substance in ambient ambient air throughair-purifying t o force the
(b)paragraphg (c) The following air to its concentration inside the e veri
respirator when worn, elements to the inlet covering.
'rnitions are important terms used in Fit t Pressure
e respiratory protection standard in est means the use of a protocol topositive pressure demand respirator uppi means a
oUalita�vel�,or ,.. ,:. ; ay �'nhe su ;
quantitatively evaluate respirator that b rQ 'air yin°
is section. the fit of a respirator admits bre
pirator on an individual. aching to
the facepiece when the positive pressure
Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 5 / Thursday, January 8. 1998 / Rules and RegulationsiZ�j�--�•
is reduced inside the facepiece by employer, the employer
inhalation. Y P oyer shall establish ,..) The employer shaIl
Qualitative fit test L, and implement a written respiratory designate a
(Q �means a protection program with program administrator who is qualified
pass fail fit test to assess the adequacy g worksite_ by appropriate trainingor experienceq d
of respirator fit that relies on t q cy procedures.The program shall that
he be updated as necessaryto reflect is commensurate with the
individuaI's response to the test agent. changes in w those complexity of the program to a
Quantitative fit test 1� g workplace conditions that P g administer
(Q FI? means an affect respirator use or oversee the respiratory protection
assessment of the adequacy -The employer shall program and conduct the P
fit bynumerically q cy of respirator include in the program the followingrequired
y measuring the provisions of this s� • evaluations of program effectiveness.
amount of leakage into the respirator. section.�applicable: (4) The employer shall provide
Respiratory inlet covering means that (i) Procedures for selecting respirators respirators,
portion of a respiratorlet that forma the for use in the workplace. evaluations' training, and medicali
protective bather between the user's (ii) Medical evaluations of employees d Selection at no cost ito the employee.
ra tion ofe the a t ors.This
respiratory tract and an air-purifying required to use respirators, paragraph requires the employer
or breathing air source, or both. (111) Fit testing procedures for tight- evaluate respiratory hazard(s)pyep to
It devicebe a fitting respirators; workplace, P rye in the
mayfacepiece, helmet, hood, p identify relevant workplace
suit, or a mouthpiece respirator with (iv) Procedures for proper llSe of and user factors, and bas p
nose clamp. respirators in routine and reasonably selection on these factors respirator
Self-contained breathing apparatus foreseeable emergency The
g cy situations; paragraph also specifies appropriately
(SCBA) means an atmosphere-supplying (v) Procedures and schedules for protective respirators
respirator for which the breathingair cleaning, disinfecting,storing, atmos here P for use in IDLH
inspecting, repairing, discarding and P s• and limits the selection
source is designed to be carried by the and use of air-purifyingrespirators.
user. otherwise maintaining respirators; (1) General requiremntsp(i) The�
Service life means the period of time
(vi) Procedures to ensure adequate air employer shall select and provide
that a respirator, filter or sorbent, or quality, quantity. and flow of breathing P de an
other respiratory air for atmosphere-supplying appropriate respirator based on the
P� ry equipment provides respiratory hazards) to which the
adequate protection to the wearer. respirators; worker is exposed
Supplied-air respirator(SAR) or (vii) Training of employees in P and workplace and
p J A the user factors that affect respirator
airline respirator means an atmosphere-
(ii)
hazards to which theyare performance and rpt
supplying respirator for which the potentially exposed aurin routine .lability.
g ne and (ii) The employer shall select a
source of breathing air is not designed emergency situations; NIOSH-certified respirator.
to be carried by the user. (viii) Training of employees i P P The
n the respirator shall be used in compliance
This section means this respiratory
use of respirators, including
r with the conditions of its certification.
ators
protection standard.
.,_,. putting on and removing them, any (iii) The employer shall identify and
1 lght-fire;rig facepi��-
..�e means a limitations on their use, and their evaluate the respiratory hazard(s) in the
respiratory inlet covering that forms a maintenance: and
respiratory
seal with the face, (ix) workplace: this evaluation shall include
User seal check means r Procedures for regularly a reasonable estimate of employee
ter, action evaluating the effectiveness exposures to respiratory hazard(s) and
conducted by the respirator user to program.b uveness of the p
determine an identification of the contaminant's
Bete j p if the respirator is properly
(2) Where respirator use is not chemical state and physical form.
seated to the face. ��'he�e the employer
required: mpIoyer cannot identify or
(c) Respiratory protection program. (i) An employer peas
This paragraph requires the employer to respirators may provide reasonably estimate the employee
develop and implement a written or Pew at the request of employees theexat re, the employer shall consider
permit employees to use their own the atmosphere to be IDLH.
respiratory protection program with respirators, if the employer (iv) The employer worksite-specific procedures that such respirator determines ploti er shall select
and elements for required respirator s uSe will not in itself respirators from a adsizes
sufficient number the
P s`. create a hazard. If the employer respirator models and sizes so that
The program must be administered bya
suitablytrained programadministrator.
determines that any voluntary respirator respirator is acceptable to, and correctly
administrator. use is permissible, the employer fits, the user.
addition, certain program elements provide theshall
P respirator users with the (2) Respirators fora IDLH atmospheres.
may be required for voluntary use to information cont (i)ained b prevent potential hazards associated in Appendix D to o The employer shall provide the
laud this section ("Information for following respirators for employee use
\A.'ith the use of the respirator. The Small Employeesin IDLH at Y
Entity Compliance Guide contains Required Using Respirators When Not atmospheres:
Under the Standard"); and (A)EA full facepiece pressure demand
criteria for the selection of a program SCBA certified by
criteria
and a sample program (ii) In addition, the employer must NIOSH for a
P establish and implement those elements minimum service life of thirty minutes,
that meets the requirements of this of a writtenor
paragraph. Copies of the Small Entity program near respiratory protection
�' necessary to ensure that any �) A combination full facepiece
Compliance Guide will be available on employee pressure dem
p yee using a respirator voluntarily (SAR with and supplied-air respirator
or about April'8, 1998 from the ) au
is medically able to use that respirator, xiliary self-contained air
Occupational Safety and Health supply.
and that the respirator is cleaned,
Administration's Office of Publications. stored, (ii) Respirators
Room N 2Constitution Avenue doe and maintained so that its use p s provided only for
s not present a health hazard to the escape from IDLH atmoapheros shall be
��'. Washington, DC, 20210 (202-2 19—• user. Employers are not BOSH-certified for escape from the
9 bb7). atmosphere in
(1) In any workplace where required to include in a writtenP which they will be used.
respiratory protection program those (iii) All oxygen-deficient atmospheres
I
respirators are necessary to the employees b shall be considered
rehspirators
of the oroprotect whenever whOSe only use of respirators the employer e fir• Exception: If
respirators are employeequired bytheinvolves the voluntaryuseP y�r demonstrates that, under
of filtering all foreseeable conditions,
facepieces (dust masks). ''� , the oxygen
concentration can be maintained within
.���� FederaldRegister / Vol. 63, No. 5 / Thursday. January $, 1998 / Rules and Regulations
the ranges specified in Table II of this TABLE
section i.e., ii (4) Administration of the medical
( for the altitudes set out in
the table), then any atmosphere- questionnaire and examinations. (i)The
Oxygen deft- medical questionnaire and examinations
cent
supplying respirator may be used. shall be administered confidentially
(3) Respirators for atmospheres that Atmospheres
are not IDLH. (i)The employer shall (% 02)for during the employee's normal working
Altitude (ft.}
provide a respirator that is adequate to , which the hours or at a time and place convenient
protect the health of the employee and employer to the employee. The medical
may rely on questionnaire shall be admi nistered in a
ensure compliance with all other OSHA atmosphere-
supplying manner that ensures that the employee
statutory and regulatory requirements, -
under routine and reasonably respirators understands its content+
foreseeable emergency situations. Less than 3,001 (ii) The employer shall provide the
3,001-4,000 6.4-19.5 employee with an opportunity to
(A) Assigned Protection Factors 16.4-1 9.5 discus
(APFs) [Reserved) 4 401-5 000 17.1-19.5 results s the qeszlonnazre and
5.001--x,000examination swith the PLHCP.
(B) Maximum Use Concentration 6 001-7 17'5-19'5 (5) Supplemental
) [Reserved) ,000 • 18.5-19.5 PP mental ing information for the
7,001-8,000 19.3-19.5. PLHCP. (i) The following infornzation
(ii) The respirator selected shall be must be provided
appropriate for the chemical state and 'Above 8,000 feet the exception does not the PLHCP p d to the PLHCP before
apply. Oxygen-enriched breathing air must be makesm a recommendation
physical form of the contaminant. concerningan employee's'
supplied above 14,000 feet. p yee s ability to use
(iii) For protection against gases and a respirator:
vapors, the employer shall provide: (e) Medical evaluation. Using a (A) Thetype and weight
respirator mayplace a physiological of the
(A) An atmosphere-supplying respirator to be used bythe employee;
respirator, or burden on employees that varies with (B) The duration anfrequencyP yf
the type of respirator worn, the job and respirator use (including of
(13) An air-purifying respirator, use for rescue
provided that: workplace conditions in which the and escape);
respirator is used, and the medical (C) The expected physical work effort;
(1) The respirator is equipped with an status
of the employee. Accordingly. (�) Additional protective clothingand
end-of-service-life indicator (ESLD
this paragraph specifies the minimum equipment to be worn; and
certified by NIOSH for the contaminant;
or requirements for medical evaluation (E) Temperature and humidity
(ZIf there is no ESUappropriate for that employers must implement to extremes that may be encountered.
determine the employee's ability to use (ii) Any supplemental information
conditions in the employer's workplace, a res irator. rov
the employer implements a change P p ided previously to the PLHCP
(1) General.The employer shall regarding an employee need not be
schedule for canisters and cartridges provide a medical evaluationr
that is based on objective information or to
provided for a subsequent medical
data that will ensure that canisters anddetermine the employee's ability to use evaluation if the information and the
a respirator, before the employee is fit PLHCP remain the same.
=artridges are changed before the end of tested or required to (iii)
heir service life.The employer shall in use the respirator The employer shall provide the
��scribe in the respirator program the the workplace. The employer may PLHCP with a copy of the written
g discontinue an employee's medical respiratory protection program and a
nforation and data relied upon and evaluations when
he basis for the canister and cartridge longer required to use a respirator. Note to
:hange schedule and the basis for Medical Paragraph (e)(5)(iii):When the
(2) Medical evaluation procedures. (i) employer replaces a PLHCP, the employer
eliance on the data. The employer shaIl identify
a physician must ensure that the new PLHCP obtains this
(iv) For protection against. or other licensed healthinformation
:a(iv) Fates, the employer shall provide: professional care . either by providing the
P (PLHCP) to perform documents directly to the PLHCP or having
(A) An atmosphere-supplying medical evaluations using documents transferred from the
nb a medical PLHCP to the new PLHCP. Howeverformer,
espirator: or questionnaire or an initial medical . OSHA
(F) An air-purifying respirator examination that obtains1ca1 does not expect employers to have employees
the same medically reevaluated solely because a ne
quipped with a filter certified by information as the medical PLHCP p
_OSH under 30 CFR part 11 as a high questionnaire. has been selected.
t iciency particulate air (NEPA) filter. (ii) The medical evaluation s (6) Medical determination. In
ran air-purifying respirator equipped obtain the informal A hall determining the em to ee's ab'
ion requested by the use a respirator, thep y �lity to
•ith a filter certified for particulates by questionnaire in Sections 1 and 2 pemployer shall:
JOSH under 42 CFR part 84: or A of Appendix C of this section. , Par` (i) Obtain a written recommendation
(C) For contaminants consisting (3) Follow-up medical examinationregarding the employee's ability
to use
. the respirator fromthe LHC
of particles with mass median (i) The employer shall ensure that a
rimarilyPLHCP. The
�rodynarnic diameters (MMAD} of at follow-up medical examination is recommendation shall provide only the
ast 2 micrometers, an air-purifying
for an employee who gives a following information:
!sptrator equipped with any filter positive response to anyquestion among (A) Any limitations on respirator use
related to the medical condition of the
!rtif`ied for particulates by NIOSH. questions 1 through 8 in Section 2. Pa
A of Appendix C or whose initial rt employee, or relating to the workplace
TABLE l.—Assigned Protection medical examination demonstl-a conditions in which the respirator will
need for afollow-u medic
Factors [Reserved] 1eS use be used, including whether or not the
P employee is medicallyable to
examination. use the
(ii) The follow-up medical respirator;
examination shall include anymedical (8)The need, if any, for follow-up
tests, consultations, or diagnostic medical evaluations: and
g suc (C) A statement that the PLHCP has
procedures that the PL?-?CP deems provided the employee with a�copy of
necessary to make a final determination.
the PLHCP's written recommendation.
Federal Register / Vol. g'-73,........._._._......__No. 5 / �`�-�u�ua t ,,
y. ,anuary 8, 1998 -ales and Regulations
1273
(ii) If the respirator is a negative changes, cosmetic Surgery, or an include prohibitingconditions
a medical condition that mayplace the change in body v�'eigflt' result in facepiece ns that may
(4) If after passing a QLFT or QNFT, seal leakage,
employee's health at increased risk if the employee subsequentlypreventing employees from removing
the respirator is used, the employer employer, notifies the y
respirators in hazardous environments,
shall provide a PAPd if the program administrator, to
PLHCP's supervisor, or PL,HCP that the fit of the taking actions to ensure continued
medical evaluation finds that the respirator is unacceptable, effective respirator operation throughout
employee can use such a respirator:if a shall be •v the employee the work shift, and P
subsequent medical eva pfinds ten a reasonable opportunity procedures establishing
select a different respirator facepiece ID es for the use if tenor respirators in
that the employee is medically able to and to be retested. atmospheres or in interior
r
use a negative pressure respirator, then (5) The fit test shall be administeredstructural firefighting situations.
the employer is no longer required to using an OSHA-accepted (1) Facepiece sealprotection. i
provide a yAPR P d QLFT or ()The
QNFT protocol.The OSHA-accepted employer shall not permit respirators
(7) Additional medical evaluations. QLFT and NFT' with tight-fittingfacepieces to
At a minimum, the employer shallQ Protocols and P be worn
y procedures are contained in Appendix by employees who have:
provide additional medical evaluations A of this section. PP (A) Facial hair that comes between
that comply with the requirements of (6) LFT mayonlysealing surface of the facepiece the
Q be used to fit test p ce and the
this section if: negative pressure air- face or that interferes with valve
(i) An employee reports medical suns respirators must air-purifying function: or
or symptoms that are related to abilityb ofP that achieve a fit factor (B) Anycon
100 or le..s, dation that interferes with
to use a respirator; the face-to-facepiece seal or valve
(ii) A PLHCP, supervisor, (7) If the fit factor, as determined f
, or the through an OSHA-accepted QNFT unction.
respirator program administrator protocol, is ecual to or r (ii) If an employee wears corrective
informs the employer that an employee for tiht-fit�in� half f g eater than 100 glasses or goggles or other personal
g g acepieces, or equal protective e u.i merit th P
to or greater than 500 for tight-fittin q P e employer
needs to be reevaluated:
(iii) Information from the respiratory full face iec g shall ensure that such e ui
p es, the QNFT has been q prn,,nt s
protection program, including passed with that respirator. Worn in a manner that does not interfere
observations made during fit testingand with the seal of the facepiece
program evaluation, indicates a (8) Fit testing of tight-fitting e,,e to the face
need for atmosphere-supplying respirators and of the user.
employee reevaluation: or (iii) For all tight-fitting respirators,
(i A change occurs ino workplace' tight-fitting powered air-purifying P rs, the
P . respirators shall be accomplished by employer shall ensure thateachtime employees
conditions (e.g., physical work effort, performingquantitative - perform a user seal check
conditions
f� P g or qualitative fit time they
protective clothing, temperature) that testing in the negative pressure put on the respirator using the
may result in a substantial increase in P r� mode, procedures in
regardless of the mode of operation Appendix -1 tor
h
the physiological burden placed on anor p.-ration procedures
(negative recommended by the
employee. positive pressure) that is respirator
(t� Fit testing. This paragraph requires used for respiratory protection. manufacturer that the
q (i) Qualitative fit testing of these aethose in demonstrates are ofas this effective
that, before an employee may be as those Appendix� 8-1
required to use respirator respirators shall be accomplished by �� pP�-naix
�� ' any resDi�dtor v�ith a .
temporarily convertingthe respirator section.
negative or positive pressure tight-fittinguser's` � o resp.,a�or
ithe employee actual facepiece into a negative (2) Continuing respirator
must be fit g e.rectiveness. (i) Appropriate
tested
facepiece,
themake, model, style, ure respirator with appropriate
filters, or by using an identical negative surveillance
work
area c all bmaintained of
and size of respirator that will be used. pressure � ork area conditions degree
This paragraph i specifiesair-purifying respirator and When
the kinds of fit facepiece with the same sealingsurfaces employee exposure or stress.
tests allowed, the procedures for lin
as a surrogate for the atmosphere- there is a change in work employee a►
conducting them, and how the results of supplyingconditions or degree
or powered air-purifying of
:he fit tests must be used. exposure or stress
respirator facepiece. that may affect
(1) The employer shall ensure that (ii) •. .. respirator effectiveness,
e•mPloyeQs using tight-fittingaface A�-p Quanti`ative fit tes ting of these P r utotcon the employer
es irator
Piece respirators shall be accomplished by shall reevaluate the continued
P pass an appropriate modifying the effectiveness of the rpt
respirator fit test f ,,, b facepiece to allowrespirator.
fit test (QNFT) � or quantitative sampling inside the facepiece .
in the (ii) ye employer shall ensure that
as stated in this breathingzone employees leave
paragraph, of the user, midway y eche respirator use area.
between the nose and mouth.This (A) To wash their faces and respirator
(2) The employer shall ensure that an requirementfacepieces asP
employee Th usinga shall be accomplished by necessary to prevent e eye or
is tight-fitting facepiece installing a permanent skin irritation associated with
fit tested prior to initial use P t sampling probe use: or respirator
respiratorof the respirator, a different onto a surrogate facepiece, or by using (B) If they
facepiecetor, whenever(size,style, model a sampling adapter designed to breakthrough.
,dchangest vapor or gas
respiratoror make) is used, and at least annuallytemporarily provide a means of through, in breathing
sampling air from inside the facepiece. resistance, or leakage of the facepiece: or
:hereafter. (C) To replace
(3) The employer shall conduct an (iii) Any modifications to the P the respirator or the
respirator facepiece for fit testingshallfilter, cartridge, or canister elements.
additional fit test whenever the (iii) If the
ad
employee be completely removed, and thebreakthrough,
employee detects vapor or
P y reports, or the employer, facepiece gas breakthrou h, changes
employ,supervisor, pP ce restored to NIOSH-approved resistance, g hanf the in breathing
administrator makes visual observations Configuration, before that facepiece can the employerr msleakage facepiece,
ns be used in the workplace. must replace theor repair the
of, changes in the employee's h sitar respirator
_ changes
shat could affect respirator Use of respirators. Thisparagraph P ator before allowing employee
pirator fit. requires employers to establisto return to the work area.
Such conditions include, but are not and (3)
implement procedures for the proper Procedures for IDL.�t'atmospheres.
united to, facial scarring, dental For all IDLH
use of respirators. These requirements shall ensureatmospheres, the employer
that:
1274 Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 5 / Thursday. January 8, 1998 / Rules and Regulations
i) One employee or, when needed, (1) Cleaning and disinfecting.
more than one employee is located employer The but not limited to, the facepiece,
shall provide each respirator straps, valves, connectinghead
outside the IDLH atmosphere;, user with a respirator that tube, and
(ii) Visual,voice,or signal line sanitary,and .p is clean, cartridges, canisters or filters;and
• in good working order. (B) A check of elastomericparts
communication is maintained between The employer shall ensure for
the employee(s) in the IDLH atmosphere that pliability and signs of deterioration.
P respirators are cleaned and disinfected (iii) In addition
and the employee(s) located outside the usingtheprocedures in to the requirements of
IDLH atmosphere; Appendix B-2 paragraphs (h)(3)(i) and (ii) of this
of this section,or procedures section.self-contained breathingis
(iii) The ernployee(s),located outside recommended byf contained
the IDLH atmosphere are trained and the respirator apparatus shall be inspected
manufacturer, provided that such P monthly.
equipped to provide effective procedures are of equivalentAir and oxygen cylinders shall be
emergency rescue; maintained in a fully charged state and
effectiveness.The respirators shall be shall be recharged g
(iv) The employer or designee is cleaned g d when the pressure
notified before the employee(s) located and disinfected at the following falls to 90%of the manufacturer'sP e
intervals:
outside the II�LH atmosphere enter the recommended pressure level.The
IDLH atmosphere to provide emergency . (i) Respirators issued for the exclusive em to er sh
g cy use of an employee shall be cleaned and P all determine that the
rescue: disinfected as often as necessary regulator and warning devices function
to be properly.
(v) The employer or designee
authorized to do so by the employer, maintained in a sanitary condition; (iv) For respirators
authorized
notified, provides necessary (ii) Respirators issued to more than emergency P the employer eshall:for
one employee shall be cleaned and g c`Y use, the
assistance appropriate to the situation; (A) Certify the respirator
(vi) Employee s) located outside the disinfected before being worn by by
different individuals; documenting the date the inspection
'Dui atmospheres are equipped with: was performed, the
L Pressure demand or other positive (iii) Respirators maintained for of name (or signature)
emergency use shall be cleaned and the person who made the inspection,
pressure SCBAs, or a pressure demand the findings, required
or other positive pressure pressure
demand
disinfected after each use;and g q remedial action,
respirator with auxiliary SCBA;andtesting and a serial number or other means of
(iv) Respirators used in fit and
either training shall be cleaned and disinfected identifying the inspected respirator; and
(B) Appropriate retrieval equipment after each use. (B) Provide this information on a tag
(2) Storage.The employer shall or label that is attached to the storage
for removing the employee(s) who Y g
ensure that respirators are stored as compartment for the respirator, is kept
enter(s) these hazardous atmospheres , : with
where retrieval equipment would � follows. the respirator, or is included in
contribute to the rescue of the (I) All respirators shall be stored to inspection reports stored as paper or
c employee(s) anc�would not inc�-P protect them from damage, electronic files. This information shall
,_ase the contamination, dust,sunlight, extreme be maintained until replaced
overall risk resulting from entry; or g e a subse p following
(C) Equivalent means for rescue where temperatures, excessive moisture, and quant certification.
retrieval equipment is not required damaging chemicals, and they shall be (4) Repairs. The employer shall
under paragraph (g)(is(vi)(re packed or stored to prevent deformation ensure that respirators that fail an
(4) for interior structural
of the facepiece and exhalation valve. inspection or are otherwise found to be
��Ir(4)Proceduresing. In addition to the (ii) In addition to the requirements of defective are removed from service, and
requirements set forth under paragraph paragraph (h)(2)(i) of this section, are discarded or repaired or adjusted in
(g)(3), in interior structural fires, the emergency respirators shall be: accordance with the following
employer shall ensure that: (A) Kept accessible to the work area; procedures:
(i) At least two employees enter the (B) Stored in compartments or in (i) Repairs or adjustments to
IDLH atmosphere and remain in visual covers that are clearly marked as respirators are to be made only b
or voice contact with one another at all
containing emergency persons appropriately y
g rg cy respirators; and trained to
times; (C) Stored in accordance with any perform such operations and shall use
(ii) At least two employees are located applicable manufacturer instructions. only the respirator manufacturer's
o'.1tside the IDLH atmosphere; and (3) Inspection. (i) The employer shall NIOSH-approved parts deli designed for the
ensure that respirators are ins ected as p g
(iii} All employees engaged in interior A P p res irator;
tr-uctural firefighting use SCBAs. follows: (ii) Repairs shall be made according
(A) All respirators used in routine the manufacturer's reco to
Note I to paragraph (g):One of the two situations shall be inspectedmmendations
individuals located outside the IDLH before each and specifications for the-type and
use and during cleaning; extent of repairs to be performed; a
03) All respiratorsmaintained for use (iii) Reducin and admission and
atmosphere may be assigned to an additional
of the emergency or safety officer,so long as in emergency situations shall be regulators, and alarms valves,
role.such as incident commander in charge
.his individual is able to perform assistance inspected at least monthly and in or repaired only shall be adjusted
Dr rescue activities without jeopardizing the accordance with the manufactur a h by the manufacturer or
,a.fety or health of any firefighter working at recommendations, and er s technician trained by the
ne incident_ hall be checked manufacturer.
Note 2 to paragraphfor proper function before and after each (i) Breathin air ua
(g):Nothing in this use;and g q illy and use.This
�ection is meant to preclude firefighters from paragraph requires the employer to
;erforming emergency rescue activities (C) Emergency escape-only respirators provide employees y
)afore an entire team has assembled, shall be inspected before being carried supplyingrusing atmosphere-
into the workplace for use. SC ) breathing
f highr and
(h) Maintenance and care of The A) with breathinggases of
-esplr'ators.This paragraph re wires (ii) employer shall ensure that purity.
q the respirator inspections include the
>mployer to provide for the cleaning following: (1) The employer shall ensure
rid disinfecting,storage, inspection, that
compressed air, compressed oxygen,
nd repair of respiratorsogused by (A) A check of respirator function, liquid air,
tightness of connections, and the q , and liquid oxygen used for
mploVees' condition of therespiration accords with the
various parts including, specifications: following
Federal Register / Vol. No. 5 / Thursday. January 8. 1998 / --les and Regulations ..
12«
(i) Compressed and liquid oxygen (6) For compressors
shall meet the United States p rs that are not oil- (2) The training shall be conducted '
lubricated. the employer shall ensure a manner thatin
Pharmacopoeia requirements for that carbon monoxidelevels is understandable to the
medical or breathing oxygen; and breathing in the employee.
air do not exceed 10 ppm. (3) The employer shall
(ii) Compressed breathing air shall (7) For oil- _ provide the
meet at least the requirements for T lubricated compressors, the training riot to requiring
Type employer shall use a high-temperature to use g P i the workplace.the employee
1-Grade D breathing air described in or carbon mo p a respirator in the workplace.
ANSUCompressed Gas Association monoxide alarm, or both, to (4) An employer who is able to
Commodity Specification for Air, G_ monitor carbon monoxide levels. If only demonstrate that a new employee
high-temperature alarms are used, the received training withinhas
7.1-1989, to include: air supply shallg the last i 2
(A) Oxygen content (v/v) of 19.5— PP Y be monitored at months that addresses the elements
23.5%;) intervals sufficient to prevent carbon specified inparagraph 1 i
monoxide in the breathing air from (vii) is not �)( ){) through
(B) Hydrocarbon (condensed) content required to repeat such
of 5 milligrams per cubic meter of air or exceeding 10 ppm. training provided that,as
required by
less; (8) The employer shall ensure that paragraph (k)(1), the employee
breathing air couplings are incompatible demonstrate knowledge of yee can
(C) Carbon monoxide (CO) content of g those
10 ppm or less; with outlets for nonrespirable worksite element(s). Previous g
air or other gas systems. No repeated initiallytraining not
(D) Carbon dioxide content of 1,000 bythe employer
ppm or less, and asphyxiating substance shall be be provided no latethanmust
introduced into breathing air lines. from the date 12 months
(E) Lack of noticeable odor. of the previous P training.
(2) The employer shall ensure that (9) T lie employer shall use breathin (5) Retrainin shall be
compressed oxygen is not used in gasg g administered
containers marked in accordance annually, and when the following
atmosphere-supplying respirators that with the NIOSH respirator certification situations occur:
havepreviously used compressed air. standard. 42 CFR part 84. (i) Changes in the workplace
(3) The employer shall ensure that 0) Identification of filters, cartridges type of respirator P uothe
oxygen concentrations greater than and canisters. The employer d P render previous
shall training obsolete;
23.5% are used only in equipment ensure that all filters, cartridges (ii) Inadequacies
designed for oxygen service or canisters used in the won• and knowledge in the employee's
place are owledge or use of the respirator
}
distribution. labeled and color coded with the NIOSHindicate that
(4) The employer shall ensure the employee has not
p all that approval label and that the label is not retained the re uisite under*
cylinders used to supply breathing air to removed and remains leg . q sanding or
skill; or
bible
Trainingand info This
. is
iii
requirements: information. 1 h (iii) Any other situation arises in
respirators meet the following (k)
paragraph requires the employer to which retraining appears necessary to
(i) Cylinders are tested and provide effective t,ain ensu
trig to employees re safe respirator use.
maintained as prescribed in the who are required to use res (6) The '
Shipping Container Specification training mustpirators. The o basic advisory information on
Regulations of the Department of
. comprehensive, respirators, as presented in Appendix D
P understandable, and recur annually, and of this section, shall beprovided byh
Transportation (49 CFR part 1 73 and more often if necessary. the
part 178); This paragraph
employer in any written or oral format.
also requires the employer to provide P
to employees who wear respirators
(ii) Cylinders of purchased breathing the basic informationP
a:; have certificate of analysis from the Appendix D on respirators in when such use is not required by this
a
supplier that the air meetPof this section to employees section or by the employer.
breathing s the who wear respirators when not required (I) Program evaluation. This
requirements for Type 1—Grade D section
breathing air; and
by this section or by the employer to do requires the employer to conduct
so. evaluations of the workplace to ensure
(iii) The moisture content in the
cylinder does not exceed a dew point of (1) The employer shall ensure that that the written respiratory protection
each employee can demonstrate program is being properly implemented,
—50 °F (—4 5.6 °C) at 1 atmosphere P P y
pressure.
knowledge of at least the following and to consult employees to ensure that
(i) Whythe respirator is necessary and they are using the respi,ators properl .
(5) The employer shall ensure that Ari
compressors used to supply breathing howimproper fit, usage, or maintenance (1) The employer shall conduct
air to respirators are constructed and theprotective effect of evaluations of the workplace as
can compromise
situated so as to: the respirator; necessary to ensure that the provisions
of the current written program are being
(i) Prevent entry of contaminated air (ii) What the limitations and p g
into the air-su 1 s stem; capabilities of the respirator are; effectivelyimplemented and that it
PP Y y •
(ii) Minimize moisture content so that (iii) How to use the respirator continues to be effective.
the dew point at 1 atmosphere pressure effectively in emergency situations, (2) The employer shall regularly
is 10 degrees F (5.56 °C) below theincludingsituations in which the
consult employees required to Y
q use
respirator malfunctions;
ambient temperature;
respirators to assess the employees'
views on program effectiveness
(iii) Have suitable in-line air-purifying (iv) How to inspect, put on and . and to
sot bent beds and filters to further ensure remove, use, and check t identify ay problems. An
he seals of the y problems
breathing air quality. Sorbent beds and respirator; that are identified during this
filters shall be maintained and replaced (v) What the proceduresassessment shall be corrected.
or refurbished periodicallyfollowing maintenance are for Factors to
and storage of the be assessed include, but are not limited
the manufacturer's instructions. respirator; to:
(iv) Have a tag containing the most (vi) How to (i) Respirator fit 'rola
recent changevdate and the signature recognize medical signs to use the (including the ability
of and symptoms that may limit or prevent respiratorworkplace withoutinterfering
the person authorized by the employer the effective use with effective
to Perform the change.The tag shall be The of respirators, and eperformance):
(vii) general r uirements (ii) Appropriateorespirator selection
maintained at the compressor. section. q of this for the hazards to which the
employee
is exposed:
.276 Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 5 / Thursday, January 8, 1998 / Rules and Regulations
(iii) Proper respirator use under the July 1, 1997.are in effect and 6.Assessment of comfort shall include a
✓orkplace conditions the employee enforceable until April 8. 1998. or review of the following points with the test
ncounters:and during any administrative or judicial subject and allowing the test subject adequate
(iv) Proper respirator maintenance. stay of the provisions of this section. time to determine the comfort of the
(m) Recordkeeping.This section (4) Existing Respiratory Protection respirator.
aequires the employer to establish and Programs.If, in the 12 month period ( ) Position of the mask the nose
etain written information regarding preceding April 8. 1998.the employer (bb) Room for eye protection
(c) Room to talk
medical evaluations, fit testing,and the has conducted annual respirator (d) Position of mask on face and cheeks
aspirator program.This information training,fit testing,respirator program 7.The following criteria shall be used to
sill facilitate employee involvement in evaluation,or medical evaluations, the help determine the adequacy of the respirator
7e respirator program,assist the employer may use the results of those fit:
mployer in auditing the adequacy of activities to comply with the (a) Chin properly placed:
le program. and provide a record for corresponding provisions of this (b)Adequate strap tension,not overly
ompliance determinations by OSHA. section, providing that these activities tightened;
(1) Medical evaluation.Records of were conducted in a manner that meets (c) Fit across nose bridge:
(d) Respirator of proper size to span
-edical evaluations required by this the requirements of this section. distance from nose to chin:
ection must be retained and made (o) Appendices. (1) Compliance ante with (e)Tendency of respirator to slip:
vailable in accordance with 29 CFR Appendix A,Appendix B-1,Appendix (f)Self-observation in mirror to evaluate fit
910.1020. B-2,and Appendix C of this section is and respirator position.
(2) Fit testing. (i)The employer shall mandatory. 8.The test subject shall conduct a user seal
stablish a record of the qualitative and (2) Appendix D of this section is non- check,either the negative and positive
uantitative fit tests administered to an mandatory and is not intended to create Pressure seal checks described in Appendix
ployee including: any additional obligations not otherwise B'1 of this section or those recommended by
(A) The name or identification of the imposed or to detract from any existing the respirator manufacturer which provide
•
equivalent protection to the procedures in
mployee tested: obligations. Appendix B-1.Before conductingthe
(B) Type of fit test performed:
Appendix A to§1910.134:Fit Testing negative and positive pressure checks,the
(C) Specific make, model,style. and Procedures
respirator Lasted: (Mandatory)
ize of subject shall be told to seat the mask on the
Part I. OSHA-Acceptedface by moving the head from side-to-side
(D) Date of test: and Fit Test Protocols
and up and down slowly while taking in a
(E) The pass/fail results for QLFTs or A.Fit Testing Procedures—General few slow deep breaths.Another facepiece
le fit factor and strip chart recording or Requirements shall be selected and retested if the test
ther recording of the test results for The employer shall conduct fit testing subject fails the user seal check tests.
>NFTs. using the following procedures.The 9.The test shall not be conducted if there
(ii) Fit test records shall be retained requirements in this appendix apply to all any bait growth between the skin and the
)r respirator users until the next fit test OSHA-accepted fit test methods,both QLFT facepiece sealing surface,such as stubble
administered. and QNFT. beard growth.beard,mustache or sideburns
(3) A written copy of the current
1.The test subject shall be allowed to pick
which cross the respirator sealing surface.
the most acceptable respirator from a Any type of apparel which interferes with a
aspirator program shall be retained by sufficient number of respirator models and satisfactory fit shall be altered or removed.
�e employer. p 10. If a test subject exhibits difficulty in
sizes so that the respirator
(4) Written materials required to be is acceptable to,
q and correctly fits,the user. breathing during the tests,she or he shall be
!rained under this paragraph shall be 2.Prior to the selection process,the test referred to a physician or other licensed
lade available upon request to affected subject shall be shown how to put on a health care professional.as appropriate. to
-nployees and to the Assistant respirator,how it should be positioned on determine whether the test subject can wear
ecretary or designee for examination the face, how to set strap tension and how a respirator while performing her or his
-Id copying. to determine an acceptable fit.A mirror shall duties.
(n) Dates. (1) Effective date.This be available to assist the subject in evaluating 11.If the employee rinds the fit of the
action is effective April 8, 1998.The the fit and positioning of the respirator.This respirator unacceptable.the test subject shall
ligations imposed by this section instruction may not constitute the subject's be given the opportunity to select a different
formal training on respirator use,because it respirator and to be retested.
Dmmence on the effective date unless is only a review. 12.Exercise regimen. Prior to the
:herwise noted in this paragraph. 3.The test subject shall be informed that commencement of the fit test, the test subject
ompliance with obligations that do not he/she is being asked to select the respirator shall be given a description of the fit test and
Jmmence on the effective date shall that provides the most acceptable fit.Each the test subject's responsibilities during the
:cur no later than the applicable start- respirator represents a different size and test procedure.The description of the process
p date. shape.and if fitted and used properly,will shall include a description of the test
(2) Compliance dates.All obligations provide adequate protection. exercises that the subject will be performing.
this section commence on the 4.The test subject shall be instructed to The respirator to be tested shall be worn for
eCtive date except as follows: hold each chosen facepiece up to the face at least 5 minutes before the start of the fit
and eliminate those that obviously do not test.
(i) The determination that respirator give an acceptable fit. 13.The fit test shall beperformed
se is required (paragraph (a)) shall be while
g 5.The more acceptable facepieces are the test subject is wearing any applicable
)mpleted no later than September 8, noted in case the one selected proves safety equipment that may be worn during
g
unacceptable:the most comfortable mask is actual respirator use which could interfere
(ii) Compliance with provisions of donned and worn at least five minutes to with respirator fit.
lis section for all other provisions shall assess comfort.Assistance in assessing 14.Test Exercises. (a)The following test
completed no later than October 5, comfort can be given by discussing the points exercises are to be performed for all fit testing
?98. in the following item A.6.If the test subject methods prescribed in this appendix,except
(3) The provisions of 29 CFR 1910.134 is not familiar with using a particular for the CNP method.A separate fit testing
ld 29 CFR 1926.103, contained in the respirator,the test subject shall be directed exercise regimen is contained in the CNP _
toto don the mask several times and to adjust protocol.The test subject shall perform
3 CFR parts 1900 1910.99 and the the straps each time to become adept at exercises,in the
3 CFR part 1926 editions, revised as of setting proper tension on the straps. following test environment.in the
manner:
Federal Register / Vol. 63. No. 5 /
Thursday, January 8, 1998 / T-7—:!es and Regulations 1277
(1) Normal breathing.In a normal standing irators.
position,without talking,the subject shall respirators,pIf used to fit test Particulate
breathe normally.
. the respirator must plastic sheeting.lThe inside top center othe
with an organic vapor filter. equipped chamber shall have a small hook attached.
(2) Deep breathing.In a normal standing (2) Each
position,the subject shall breathe slowly and (a) Odor Threshold Screening fit testingshall
respiratoree used for the fitting and
deeply, taking caution so as not to Odor threshold screeni equipped with organic
ng. performed vapor cartridges or offer protection against
hyperventilate. without wearingares '
(3) Turning head side to side.Standing determine if the pirator,is intended to organic vapors.
place. the shall slowly turn his/her in the odor of isoamylindividual tested can detect (3)After selecting, donning,and properly
headplad from t subject side between the extreme (1)Three I acetate at low levels. adjustingwearit a respirator,the test subject shall
from
side each side.The head shall be are required. iter glass jars with metal lids shall it tos the fit testing room.This room
held at each extreme momentarily so the (2) Odor-free be separate from the room used for odor
water(e.g.,distilled ors tin threshold screening and respirator selection.
subject can inhale at each side. water) at approximately spring and
(4) Moving head up and down.Standing in be used for h e solutions.y25°C (77° shall shall well-ventilated,as by an exhaust
Place. the subject shall slowly move his/her (3) isoamylfan or lab hood,to prevent general room
head. and down.The subject shall be at(3)The acetate)acetate (IAA).(also known contamination.
instructed to inhale in the upp e)stock solution is (4)A copy of the test exercises and any
position (i.e., prepared by adding 1 ml of pure IAA to 800 prepared text from which the subject '
when looking toward the ceiling). is to
(5) Talking.The subject shall talk out loudml of odor-free water in a 1 liter jar,closingfend shall be taped to the inside of the test
slowly and loud enough so as to be heard s the lid and shaking for 30 seconds.A new chamber.
elution shall be prepared at least weekly. (5) Upon entering the test chamber. the test
clearly by the test conductor.The subject can (4)The screening test shall be conducted piesubce oft shall rbe t given a 6-inch porous,by 5-inch
Rainbow Passage, count backward from 100, actual room testing.epto from the room used for piece epaper towel.or other de
or
Rainbow
a memorized poem or song, actweual
fit The two rooms shall be absorbent,single-ply material,folded in half
o prevent the odor of IAA and wetted with 0.75 ml of pure I .The
Rainbow P�;agp from becoming evident in the P test subject shaII hangthe wet towel
aro where testing takes place. general room hook at the topof the on the
When the sunlight strikes raindrops in the bomber.An IAA test
air, theyact (5)The odor test solution is prepared in a swab or ampule may be substituted for the
like a prism and forma rainbow. second jar by placing0.4IAA wetted
The rainbow is a division of white light into solution ml of the stock paper towel provided it has been
.'.any nais colors.These take the shapet a ointo 500 ml of odor-free water
demonstrated that the alternative L .source
using win generate equivalent test atmosphere
of a round arch,with its path high dropperor pipette.The solution shall p _with a
along rits two ends apparently beyond be shaken for 30 seconds and allowed to concentration to thatgenerated
above.horizon.There is,according to legend,a stand for two to three minutes so that the the paper towel method. by
he
boiling pot of gold at one end. Peopler IAA concentration above the liquid may (5)Allow two minutes for the IAA test
but no one ever finds it. When a man looks feach equilibrium.This solution shall be concentrations stabilize before start
used for only one day. fit test exercises.This would thebe t subject:ec
for something beyond reach, his friends say (6)A test blank shall
appropriate
is looking for the pot aofc gold a: the end be prepared in a third propnntt time to talk with test subiect;
cf the rainbow. jar by adding 500 cc of odor-free• er, to co pe the fit test,the importance of his/
mar . her cooperation, and the u
(6) Grimace.The test subiect shall grimace shall(7) b he odor test and test blank jar lids purpose for the test
by smiling frownin e labeled exercises:or to demonstrate some of the
, 1 and 2) for jar
,.,.�. g This applies only to identification. Labels shall be placed exercises.
bye, i lor; r is not performed for paced on the
(�) Bending over.The test subject QL~1 lids so that they can be peeled off- (7) if at time
b�ect shall periodical) e any during the test, the subject
bend at the waist as if he/she were y and switched to maintain the detects the banana-like odor of IAA, the test
bend r togs Jogging to touch integrity of the test. is failed.The subject shall quickly
j �ng in place shall be (8) The followingthe testq f exit from
substituted for this exercise in those test instruction shall be chamber and leave the test area to
on a card andplaced on the ped avoid olfactory fatigue.
environments such as shroud type '�'r'or the two test
table in front of
i units that doh not permit bending Jars (1.e.. 1 and 2): "The purpose
over of this test is to P pose return(8) If the test is failed. the subject shall
at the um:Ls. determine if yoti can smell to the selection room and remove the
(8) :ti`orwaist, breathing.Same as exercise (1). bot banana oil at a low concentration.The two respirator.The test subject shall repeat
Co) Fatesttles in front of you contain water. One of anotherctor sensitivity test, p the
ch exercise shall be performed select and put on
or these bottles also contains a small
minute except for thegrimace int e fit returnst procedure the test area and
banana gilt amount of
-or onee which shall be Be sure the covers are on tight, in begin the fit test described
seconds. The test performed for 15 then shake each bottle for two (b) {I) through
shall bequestioned Len nr seconds. in g (� above.The process
ov the cos; conductor subjectr re Q comfort sem..eµ the lid of each bottle, onecontinues until a respirator that fits well has
regarding the and sniff at the mouth of the o at a time, been found. Sho � � the
the respirator upon completion of the
to the test conductor which bottle ttI`. Indicate uta odor sensitivity test
rococo:. If it has become contains be failed, the subiect shall wait at least 5
-nether model of respirators shall be unacceptable. banana oil." minutes before have ret in
g.�e respiratorr shall not be adjusted oncetrie (9) The mixtures used in the IAA odorFill usually returned Odor sensitivityt
the detection test shallby this time.
be
test exercises begin. Any voids P be prepared in an area (9) If the subject passes the test,the
::e test.and the fit test must adjustmentbe separate from where the test is deeffmonstrated
of the test having subjectre shall re
repeated. order to prevent olfactory fatigue norzned, in demonstrated by
g the the break,the
Quail;ative Fit Test (pLFTj Protocols subject_ respirator face seal and take a breath before
General
(10) If the test subject is unable to come exiting the chamber.
identify the jar containing the odor test correctly (10) When the test subject leaves
(a) The employer shall ensure that persons solution the
d(a) The
employer
Tare able to prepare test sobe performed.IAA qualitative fit test shall not chambed the subjectladshallremove the
elutions.calibrate equipment and perform pl If m,.d. saturated towel and return it e the person
-sts Properly, recognize invalid tests.and the ) the test subject correctly identifies Conducting the test,so that there is no
insure that test equipment is properjar containing the odor test solution,the ch mbersignificant IAA concentration buildup in the
-'orking order.
test subject may proceed to respirator chamber during subsequent tests.The used
(b) The employer shall ensure that QLFT selection and fit testing, towels shall be kept in a self-sealing lactic
quip►ment is kept clean and well maintained p
(b) Lsoamyl Acetate Fit Test bag to keep the test area from being
='�to operate within the parameters for (I)The fit test chambercontaminated.
nice it was designed. shall be a clear 55- 3. Saccharin Solution Aerosol
gallon drum liner suspended inverted over a Protocol
Isoamyl Acetate Protocol 2-foot diameter frame so that The entire screeninga
2h got is about 6 inches the top of the shall be explained to e tedtesting procedure
Note:This is not appropriate to above the test ng test.subject prior to
se fore the fitprotocolof subject's head.If no druth liner is available the conduct r the screening •
testing particulate a similar chamber shall be (a) Taste threshold screening.
constructed usinge_ring.The
saccharin taste threshold screening.
1278 Federal Register / Vol. 63. No. 5 /
Thursday, January 8, 1998 / 1).
les and Regulations
performed without wearing a respirator,is —reening test,he/she may�unable to taste household liquids which children
individual being tested can detect the taste of solution, be drinking and is endorsed lldren should not
saccharin. (12) If a taste response is elicited,the test Medical Association theNational
the American
(1) During threshold screening as subject shall be asked to take note of the taste Council,and the American ational Safety
during fit testing,subjects shall wear well for reference in the fit test. Poison Control Cent Association screening of
n
enclosure about the head and shouldersn that (13) Correct use of the nebulizer means that Centers.The enure acreening
approximately 1 ml of liquid is used and testing procedure shall explained to
is approximately 12 inches in diameter by14 q at a time a test subject prior to the
inches tall with at least the front in the nebulizer body, conduct of the
portion screening test.
clear and that allows free movements of the (14)The nebulizer shall be thoroughly (a)Taste Threshold Screening.
head when a respirator ise worn.An seof the rinsed in water,shaken dry,and refilled at
substantially similar o the 3M hoodmorningand afternoonere Bitrex tastee threshold respirator.
east each or at least performed without wearing ares ira
assembly,parts#FT 14 and t Fr 15 every four hours. intended to determine whether
her p tor,is
combined,is adequate. (b) Saccharin solution aerosol fit test individual being tested can dei the
(2)The test enclosure shall have a 3/,-inch procedure. Bitrex. detect the taste of
(1.9 cm) hole in front of the test subject's (1)The test subject may not eat,drink (1) During threshold screening
nose and mouth area to accommodate the .(except Plain water),smoke,or chew gum for during fit testing,subjects shall �well as
nebulizer nozzle. 15 minutes before the test, enclosure about the head and wear an
(3) The test subject shall don the test shoulders that
(2) The fit test uses the same enclosure is approximately 12 inches (30.5 cm) i
enclosure.Throughout the threshold described in 3. (a) above. diameter by 14 inches (35.6 cm) in
test,the test subject shall breathe (3)The test subject shall don the enclosurefront portion of the enclosure tall.The
through screeninghtest,r slightly open mouth with While wearing the respirator selected inp calor and al are shall be clear
from the respirator low free movement
tongue is instructed to
section I.A.of this appendix.The respirator of the head when a respirator is worn.An
report when extended.heThe subjects a sweet taste. properly adjusted and equipped with
shall be r enclosure substantially similar to the 3M
(4) Using a DeVilbiss Model 40 Inhalation a particulate filter(s). hood assembly, para 14 and
Medication Nebulizer or equivalent.the test (4) second DeViIbiss Model 40 is adequate. #15 combined,
conductor shall spray the threshold check Inhalation Medication Nebulizer or (2)The test enclosure shall test s
solution into the enclosure.The nozzle is equivalent is used to spraythe fit test have a�� inch
(1.9 cm) hole in front of the subject's
directed away from the nose and mouth of solution into the enclosure.This nebulizer
nose and mouth area to
the person.This nebulizer shall be clearly shall be clearly marked to distinguish nebulizer nozzle, accommodate the
marked to distinguish it from the fit test the screening test solution nebulizer. it from (3)The test subject shall d
solution nebulizer. enclosure. Throughout the don the test
(5) The threshold check is adding) The fit test solution is prepared by thresholds
prepared by dissolving 0.83 solution of sodium ml 8r 3 grams of sodium saccharin to 100 thscrough test, the testsubject pshall breathe
m water, through his or her slightly open mouth with
saccharin USP in 100 ml of warm water. It (6) As before, the testsubject tongue extended.
can be prepared by putting 1 ml of the fit test through the slightly'oshall breatheThe subject is instructed to
(see (b)(b) below) oextough and report when he/she detects a bitter taste.
open mouth with tongue (4) Usinga
solution
ll water. report if he/she tastes the DeVizer Model l Inhalationhe s
:iis
sweet taste of saccharin. Medication Nebulizer or equivalent, the test
(6) To produce the aerosol, the nebulizer (e The nebulizer n conductor shall spray
bulbbulb is:'irr squeezed so that it collapses in the front of the is inserted into the hole Solution intothe enclosure.the Threshold Check
is f irrn then relead s aha all coved to e enclosure and an initial rkdodThis Nebulizerit
concentration anon of saccharin fit test solution is t shall be clearly marked to distinguish from
nc. the fit test solution,nebulizer.
sprayed into the enclosure using the same
(7) Ten squeezes are repeated rapidly and
'yen the test subject is asked whether number of squeezes (either 10, 20 or 30 (5) The Threshold Check Solution is
deci`iarin can be tasted. If the test subjectthe squeezes) based on the number of squeezes prepared by'f addingl 13.5 milli
q to 100 ml of 5%salt (NaC1) solutio in Bitrex
_Apo^�s tasting the sweet taste during the ten required to elicit a caste response as noted distilled
-eco zee. the screeningduring the screening test. A minimum of 10 water.
test is completed. (6) To produce the aerosol, the
The taste threshold noted as ten regardless squeezes is required. nebulizer
of the of squeezes (8) After generatingthe aerosol,the test bulb is firmly squeezed so that the bulb
number actually collapses completely.
completed.
subject shall be instructed to perform the p 'y.and is then released
(8) If the first response is negative, ten exercises in section I. A. 14. of this appendix. and allowed to fully expand.
more squeezes (9) Every 30 second the aerosol (7) An initial ten ts^uee�p
are repeated rapidly and the `� --�are repeated
:est is again asked
concentration shall be replenished usingone whether and then the test subject is asked
:e=c subject is tasted. If the test whether thesubjereports half the original number of squeezes Cher the Bitrex can be tasted. If the test
p initiallyq 2eS used subject reports tasting ethe bitter taste Baric.
:acting the sweet taste during the second ten {erg S. 10 or 15).
ueezeS. the screening test is completed.
(10) The test subjectthe ten squeezes,eg
shall indicate to the completed.Thetaste
threshold
screening test is
The taste threshold is noted as twen test conductor if at any time during threshold is noted as
T?Vardle s of the number of squeezes actuallytest the taste of saccharin is detectthe ten regardless ofet the number of squeezes
test subject does not report tastin detected.
If the actuallyIcompleted.
:cmpieted. the (8) If
(9) If the second response is ne saccharin. the test is g the first response is negative. ten
P g�tive, ten ped• more squeezes are repeated rapidly
pore squeezes are repeated rapidly and the (1 1) If the taste of saccharin is detected,the test subject is a p Y and the
is again asked whether the fit deemed unsatisfactory and the test is tasted gain asked whether the Bitrex
estacsubjectrin is tasted. If the test subject reports failed.A different respirator shall be tried bitter If the test subject d tens Lasting the
sting the sweet taste during the third set of and the entire test corp t taste during the second squeezes•
p ng an i�repeated the screening test is completed.The taste
'n squeezes, the screening test is completed. {taste threshold screening and fit lectin }. threshold is noted
he taste threshold is noted as thirty g' as twenty regardless of the
(12)Since the nebulizer has a tendency to number of squeezes
hgardless of the number of squeezes actually clog during use, the test operator must make (9) If q es actually completed.
ompleted. the second response is negative,ten
periodic checks of the nebulizer to ensure more squeezes are repeated
(10) The test conductor will take note of that it is not clogged.If clogging found rapidly and the
g at test subject is again asked whether the Bitrex
se number of squeezes required to solicit a the end of the test session,the test is invalid.
ste response. . is las ted.If the test subject reports tastin the
4. BitrexT l (Denatonium Benzoate) Solution bitter taste during the third set of ten g
(II) �f the saccharin is not tasted after 30 Aerosol Qualitative
ue )if (step I O),the test subject is unable Q e Fit Test Protocol squeezes, the screening test is completed.
taste saccharin and mayThe BitrexT�+ Toe taste threshold is noted as thirty
p
not perform the (Denatonium benzoate ny
char in fit test. solution aerosol QL�`I'protocol uses ) regardless of the number of squeezes
published saccharic, test protocol beta the completed. q actually
Noteof
to earn Fh 3. (a):If the test subject that use (10) The
or drinks something sweet before theprotocol is widelyaccepted. Bitrex ,h�test conductor r required
takedtonote it
routinelyused p .d. is the number of squeezes re vire
as a taste aversion agent in taste response. q d solicit a
Federal Rebister / Vol. F3, No. 5 / Thu
rsday, January 8, 1998 les and
Regulations 1279
(11) If the Bitrex is not tasted after 30 (3) No form of test
) (step IO),the test subject is unable the test subject shall enclosure or hood for test is failed.The mon
squeezes taste Bitrex and may not perform thebe used. a being retested must
(4)The smoke can be irritating to the eyes, repeat the entire sensitivity check and fit test
tBitrex fit test.
lungs,and nasal procedure.
(I 2) If a taste response s elicited,the test g pages.The test conductor
subject shall be asked to is note of the taste shall take precautions to minimize the test (7) test Each test subject evidence the irritant
subject's exposure to irritant smoke. smoke without of shalla response
for reference in the fit test. (involuntary cough.
(1 e Correct Sensitivity varies,and certain individuals �' gh. irritation) ,wgith
use of the nebulizer means that may respond to a greater degreea second sensitivity screeningc;�
aapproximately 1 ml of Ii4uid is used at a time smoke.Care shall be taken to irritant the smoke from the same s eek,with
iro nebulizer body.
when performing during the fit test smoke tube used
(1 the The nebulizer shall be thoroughlythe
sensitivity screening checks that been .once the respirator has
ermine whether the test subject can detect n rell be theoto vsmoke.Failure to evoke a
amount.of smoke net response shall void the fit test.
least every four hours, to elicit a (8) If a response
response•from the test subject. P nse is produced during this
(b) Bitrex Solution Aerosol Fit Test (5)The fit testsecond sensitivity
Procedure. shall be performed in an ty check, then the fit test is
area with adequate ventilation to prevent passed.
(1) The test subject may not eat,drink exposure of the e
(except plain water),smoke,or chew gum for or the build-up person conducting the fit test C.Quantitative Fit Test (QN1=) Protocols
I S minutes before the test. of irritant smoke in the The followingquantitative
('} fit the same enclosure as general atmosphere. fit testing
that The fit
test uses above. Sensitivity ScreeningCheckprocedures have been demonstrated u i be
(b} Sensitivi acceptable:Quantitative fit testing
(3) The test subject shall don the enclosure The person to be tested must demo non-hazardous test aerosol (suchg using a
while wearing the respirator selected his or her ability to detect a wok demonstrate polyethylene glycol 400 Pas corn oil.
according to section I.A.of this appendix. concentration of the irritant smoke.
hexyl sebacate (DEr-is of G 400j, di-2-ethyl
The respirator shall be properly adjusted and (1)The test operator shall oke. ), r sr, diumand chloride)
break both ends generated in a test chamber,and employing
equipped with any type particulate filter(s). of a ventilation smoke tube containinginstrumentation to quantify
(4) A second DeVilbiss Model 40 stannic c. q y the fit of the
hloride,and attach one end of the respirator;Quantitative fit testing using
Inhalation Medication Nebulizer or smoke tube to a low flow airambient aerosol as
equivalent is used to spray the fit test pumpthe test agent and
deliver 200 milliliters per minute, r an
appropriate instrurnentacion
solution into the enclosure.This nebulizer aspirator squeeze bulb.The test operator
nu:lei counter to ti (conceslsation
shall be clearly marked to distinguish it from ) quantify the respirator fit:
shall cover the otherQuantitative fit testing using controlled
the screening test solution nebulizer. with a shortpiece end of the smoke tube negative
(5) fit test solution is prepared by potential int from
tubing to prevent instrumentationalive pressure and appropriate
adding The fit
mg of Bitrextionto 200 ml ofd ,,,b injury the jagged end of theo of to measure the volumetric
o, smoke tube. leak rate of a facepiece to quantify the
Salt (NaCl) solution in warm water.
(2)The test operator shall advise the test respirator fit.
(6) As before, the test subiect shall breathe subiect that the smoke can irritating his or her slightly open mouth with eyes. lungs.and nasal passages I-at.ng to the 1.General
tongue extended, and be instructed.to report the subiect to keep his/her gclosedinstruct employer shall ensure
struct,. nd (a)The that pe:-sons
if heishe tastes the bitter taste of Eitr ex.. the test is performed. eyes while adminiserin Nr
roeg Q are able to calibrate
(7) nebulizer is inserted into the hole (3) The test subject shall be equipment and perform
.n the front of the enclosure and an initial allowed to tests properly,
smell a weak concentration of the irritant recognize invalid tests, calculate fit factors
concentration of the fit test solution is smoke before the respirator is donned properly and ensure that
sprayed into the enclosure usingo to test equipment is in
the spm, become familiar with its irritatingproperties
proper working order.
sprayed
number of squeezes e 2 etermine " p pe^les ....
s 10. 0 or 30 and to d if he/she can detect the (b)The employer shall ensurei
squeezes) based on .h that QtiFI-
e number of squeezes irritating properties of theequipment ise kept clean, and is maintained
required to elicit a taste response as noted operator shall carefullydirect ake The test
during the screening test. small amount and calibrated according to the
(8) After ser generating the aerosol. of the irritant smoke in the test subjects thane paturer's instructions so as tooperate
g oso1, the test direction to determine that he/she can detect at the parameters for��„-hi`;� it was designed.y
subject shall be instructed to perform the
U.
exercises in section I.A. ;
1 of this appendix. 2.Generated Aerosol
(9) Every 30 seconds the aerosol (c) Irritant Smoke Fit Test Procedure Protocol Quantitative Fit Testing
concentration shall be replenished one
(1) The person being fit tested shall don the PP
using (a) Apparatus.
;elf the number of squeezes respirator without assistance, andperform (1) Instrumentation.
5or lq s used initially on.Aerosol
o.. 10 ,S). the required generation.
q userseal checu(s) dilution, and measurement systems using
(10) The test subject shall indican a �'� The �r
I tc, ;;-�` t= subject shall be instructed to Particulates (corn oil, polyethylene loco
(, conductor if at any time during the fit keep his/nor eyes closed. l
400 (PEG 4001. di-2-ethyl hexyl soba ate
=st the taste off trex is detected. If the test (3) The test operator shall direct the stream
(DEHS1 or sodium chloride) as test aerosols
subject does not report tasting the Eitrex, the of irritant smoke from the smoke tube towardshall be used
`st passed.
the faceseal area of the test subject, usingthe
(2)Test chamber.The for test fit testing.
l:) If the taste of Bitrex is detected,the low flow pump or the squeeze bulb.The large enough
The test chamber shall be
it is deemed unsatisfactory and the test is operator shall begin at least 12 inches o freelyto permit all test subjects to
:ailed. A different respirator shall be tried the facepiece and move the smoke stream
from disturbing
all required exercises without
-;d the entire test procedure is repeated
ram ieasur m the test agent concentration or the
around the whole perimeter of the mask.The measurement apparatus.
taste threshold screening and fit testing). operator shall gradually make PP s.The test chamber
Y two more shall be equipped and constructed so that the
passes around the perimeter of the mask, test agent is
Irritant Smoke (Stannic Chloride Protocoleffectively
moving to within six inches of the res isolated from the
T his qualitative fit test uses a person's (4)If the person brio respirator. ambient air,yet uniform in conte
espouse co the irritating chemicals released g tested has not had throughout the chamber. concentration
an involuntary response andior detected the (3) When
n the "smoke" produced by a stannic testing air-purifying
irritant smoke,proceed with the test respirators.
shall
Mortar ventilation smoke tube to detect the normal filter or cartridge
halon e exercises.
e element shall be
into the respirator. (5)The exercises identified inreplaced with a high efficiency
.,) General Re 14. of this appendix shall be performed section I.A. (NEPA) or P100 series filter supplied particulate air
Requirements and Precautions p med byPP by the
(1) e
T•ne respirator to be tested shall be the test subject while the respirator seal same manufacturer.
being continually challenged by the smoke, (4)The sampling instrument rd or s
quipped with high efficiency particulate air directedselected so that
u ippPA) or P 1 OG series around the perimeter of the a computer the test
strip
filter(s). respirator at a distance of chart record may betmade
(2) Only stannic chloride smoke tubes shall six inches. theof the test showin
used for this . (6) If the person being fit tested reports cocon and fall with the test agent g
detecting the irritant smoke at any time, the expiration ration each inspiration and
at fit factors of at least 2,000.
1280 Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 5 / Thursday, ,January 8, 1998 / Rules and Regulations
Integrators or computers that integrate the (13)The limitations o
arncunt of test agent penetration leakage into detection shall be taken into instrument (8)Calculation of fit factors.
the respirator for each exercise may be used determining the fit factornt°account when (i)The fit factor shall be determined for the
provided a record of the readingsis made. quantitative fit test by taking the ratio of th
(14)Test respirators shall be maintained in e
(5)The combination of substitute air- proper working order and be inspectedaverage chamber concentration to the
purifying elements,test agent and test agent regularly for deficiencies such concentration measured inside the respirator
concentration shall be such that the test missing valves and gaskets.
cracks or for each test exercise except the grimace
subject is not exposed in excess of an (b) Procedural Requirements. exercise.
(1)When performing the initial user seal
established exposure limit for the test agent (ii)The average test chamber concentration
at any time during the testing process,based check using a positive or negative pressure shall be calculated as the arithmetic average
upon the length of the exposure and the check,the sampling line shall be crimped of the concentration measured before and g
exposure limit duration. closed in order to avoid air pressure leaks a after each test (i.e..7 exercises) or the
(6) The sampling port on the test specimen during either of these pressure checks. g arithmetic average of the concentration
(2)The use of an abbreviated screening
respirator shall be placed and constructed so measured before and after each exercise or
QLFT test is optional.Such a test may be
that no leakage occurs around the port(e.g.,
the true average measured continuously
utilized in order to quickly identify poor
where the respirator is probed),a free air during the respirator sample.
flow is allowed into the sampling line at all fitting respirators that passed the positive (iii)The concentration of the challenge
times,and there is no interference with the and/or negative pressure test and reduce the agent inside the respirator shall be g
fit or performance of the respirator.The in- amount of QNFT time.The use of the CNC determined by one of the followingmethods:
mask sampling device QNFT instrument in the count mode is (A)Average peak penetration method
P g (probe)shall be
•
another optional method to obtain a quick
designed and used so that the air sample is means the method of determiningtesta agent
drawn from the breathing zone of the test estimate of fit and eliminate poor fitting penetration into the respirator utilizing a
subject,midway between the nose and mouth respirators before going on to perform a full strip chart recorder,integrator,or comuter.
and with the probe extending into the QNB- The agent penetration is determined byean
facepiece cavity at least 1/4 inch. (3)A reasonablystable testaverage
agent of the peak heights on the graph or
(7)The test setup shall permit the person concentration shall be measured in the test by computer integration, for each exercise
administering the test to observe the test chamber prior to testing.For canopy or except the grimace exercise.Integrators or
subject inside the chamber during the test. shower curtain types of test units,the computers that calculate the actual testa
(8)The equipment generating the test determination of the test agent's stability may penetration into the respirator for eachgent
atmosphere shall maintain the concentration established after the test subject has exercise will also be considered tom
of test agent constant to within a 10 percent entered the test environment. requirements of the averagepeak penetrt ation
of
variation for the duration of the test. (4) Immediately after the subject enters the method. P tion
(9)The time lag(interval between an event test chamber, the test agent concentration (B) Maximum peak penetration method
and the recording of the event on the strip ens inside the respirator shall be measured to means the method of determining
or computer or integrator) re that the peak penetration does not penetration in the respirator as determt ined
chart a minimum.There shall )shall be kept exceed 5 percent for a half mask or fined
be a clear 1 percent by strip chart recordings of the test.The
association between the occurrence,of an for a full facepiece respirator. highest peak penetration for
(5) A stable test agent concentration shall is taken to be representative a given exercise
event and its being recorded. p e of average
(10) The sampling line tubing for the test be obtained prior to the actual start of testing. penetration into the respirator g
=hamber atmosphere and for the respirator �(6) Respirator restraining straps shall not exercise. P rotor for that
.>am linport shall be over tightened for testing.The straps shall (C) Integration by calculation of
P g of equal diameter and be adjusted by the wearer withoutthe area
of the same material.The length of the two assistance under the individual peak for each ex
Ines shall be equal. from other persons to give a reasonably except the grimace includesse
(1 1) The exhaust flow from the test comfortable fit typical of normal use.The computerizeint exercise.This
respirator shall not be adjusted once the fit integration.
chamber shall pass through an appropriate test exercises begin. (� The calculation of the overall
filter (i.e., high efficiency particulate or P100 using individual exercise fit factorsfit factor
eries filter) before release. (7)The test shall be terminated whenever first convertingtheinvolves
(I 2) When sodium chloride aerosol is used, any single peak penetration exceeds 5 exerciseefit factors to
percent for half masks and 1 percent for full and then penetration
reinvalues. determining the average,
he relative humidity inside the test chamber facepiece respirators. converting that result
;hall not exceed 50 percent. P rs.The test subject shall be factor.This procedure is described back to a fit
refitted and retested. ed in the
following equation:
Overall Fit Factor— Number of exercises
1 f ffi +1/ff2 +1/ff3 +1/ff4 +1/ff5+1/ff +l ff
8
''here ff,,ff,,ff3,etc,are the fit factors for (Portacount TM r
exercises 1.2.3,etc. ) protocol quantitatively fit a full facepiece negativepressure
tests respirators with the use of a probe.The The entire screeningrespirator.
(9)The test subject shall not be permitted probed respirator is onlyused for and testingprocedure
)wear a half mask or quarter facepiece quantitative fit tests.A robed shall be explained to the test subject
aspirator unless a minimum fit factor of 100 a special sampling device,installed onor has the conduct of the screening test. prior to
obtained,or a full facepiece respirator z-espirator,that allows the r to the (a) Portacount Fit Test R g
pies a minimum fit factor of 500 is the air from inside the mas °� sample Requirements.
stained. k.A probed (1) Check the respirator to make sure the
(10) Filters used for quantitative fit testingmodel.respirafor is required for each make,style, respirator is fitted with a high-efficiency
and size that the employer uses and filter and that the sampling probe and line
tall be replaced whenever increased
can be obtained from the respirator are properly attached to the facepiece.
cathing resistance is encountered,or when manufacturer or distribu
e test agent has altered the integrity of the instrument manufactur for.The CNC (2) Instruct the person to be tested to don
ter media. e..TSI Inc.,also the respirator for five minutes before the fit
3.Ambient aerosol condensation nuclei provides probe attachments(TSI sampling test starts.This purges the ambient
anter (CNC) quantitative fit testingadapters) that permit fit testingin an trapped particles
inside the respirator and permits the
under. employee's own respirator.A minimum fit Wearer to make certain
The ambient aerosol condensation nuclei factor pass level of at least 100 is necp the respirator is
�ssary comf6rtable.This individual shall already
for a half-mask respirator and a minimum fit have been
unter (CNC) quantitative fit testing factor ass level � trained on how to w
P of at least 500 is required for respirator properly. ear the
Federal Register / Vol. 03, N0. 5 I Thursday,hursday, January- $, 1998 /
:les and Regulations 128i
(3) Check the following conditions for the moves air f
adequacy the respirator o Chin properly from the respirator facepiece at turnip
placed:Adequate strap tension.:Chin overt y a pre-selected constant pressure.The g head side to side exercise,the sject
tightened:Fit across nose bridge;Respirator or facepiece fit is expressed needs a hold head full left and hold his or
P through the facepiece. d as the leak rate her breath for 10 seconds
of
tightened:
size to span distance from nose to expressed as during test
milliliters per minute.The quality and headmeasurement.Next, the subject herneeds breath hold
r~sn:Tendency of the respirator to slip:Self- validityof the full right,
observation in a mirror s evaluate fit CNP fit tests are determined g t and hold his or e fcr
bythe degree to10 seconds during
respirator position. g which the in-mask pressureatest measurement.
(4) Have the person wearing the respirator tract the test pressure during the systemp (4)cMoving head up and down.Standingin
P measurement time of approximately five her head, the subject shalln slowly move his o
do a user seal check.If.Ieakage is detected, seconds.I her
determine the cause.If leakage is from a nstantaneous feedback in the formct up and down for 1 minute.The
g of a real-time pressure trace of the in-mask Posiuo shall be ins looks to inhale in the
Pearly fitting facepiece, try another size of position (i.e.. whenup
the same model respirator, or another model pressure
provided and used to determine ovine head toward up the
of respirator. y and qualiceilinge thAfe
the moving is and down
factor pass level of 100 is A minimum fit exercise.the subject shall
(5) Follow the manufacturer's instructions necessary for a half- head full uphold his a her
for operating the Portacount and proceed at
m ask respirator and a minimum fit factor of and hold his or her breath for
with the test. east 500 is required for a full facepiece l O seconds during test measurement.Next,
respirator.The entire screening and testingthe subject shall hold his or her head full
(6) The subject instructed to down and
perform the test subject in shall beion I. uAe toof procedure
dure shall be explained to the test hold his or her breathmefor 10
this appendix. prior to the conduct of the screening seconds during test measurement.
(7) After the test exercises,the test subject test'
slowly Talking.The subject shall talk out loud
shall be questioned byexercises,
conducto (a) CNP Fit Test Requirements. clearly ly and loud enough so as to be heard
regarding comfort the the test conductor
upon adjustable The instrument shall have a non- edfr by the test conductor.The subject can
completion the the protocol.If it has orbeopojustable test pressure of 15.0 mm water read from a prepared text such as the
unacceptable,another model of respirator pressure.2� , Rainbow Passage,count backward from 100,
shall be tried. ( ) 1 ne CSP system defaults selected for or recite a memorized poem or song for 1
test pressure shall be set at-1.5 mm of water shallminte. After the talking exercise,the subject
Cb) Poracount Instrument.
(1) The Por+nt Test will automatically stop (-0.58 inches of water)and the modeled hold his or breath head straight dahead and
and calculate the overall fit factor for the inmspiratory
story flow rate shall be 53.8 liters per hold his or her for 10 seconds aurin
entire set is exhe o es.The overall fit factor for performing fit tests. the testi measurement.
g
e what counts.exercises.
Pass e Fail ll (Note:CNP systems have built-in capabili (6) Grimace.The test subject shall grimace
s whether e Pot the test mewas ge will to conduct fit testing that is specific to by smiling or frowning fort seconds.bjt
indicatescessful.If the test was a pass unique work rate, mask.and gender (7) Bending Over.The test subject shall
, the fit test g pare
uch
s over, situations that might apply in a specific bend at the waist 1 if he e she were to ta
his or her toes for 1 minute.Jogging in
(2) Since the pass or fail criterion of the' workplace. Use of s�,stem default values, shall g1, g place
ro-;;;co• which were selected to represent respirator X11 substituted such for this exercise in those
�r,t is userprogrammable. the test � test environmer*
?critoperator shall ensure pr that theor wear with medium cartridge resistance at a `s aat the waist. After
erionmeetp fail low-moderate work ra1e,will allow in units that prohibit ec: eat theec
the requirements for Minimum ter-test �.� bending After
reSpi;atorperformance cor;oars�on of the r T the bend:..g over .--:
he in this Appendixrespirator fit.)
(3) A record of the test needs to be exercise. the subject shall
kept e-, �. (3) The individual who conducts the CNPhold his °' net head straight ahead and hold
•••e. assumingthe test , .T. fit shall Ls or her breath for 10 seconds during the
h fit was successful.The testing be trained to
record perform the test. (8)test measurement.
must contain the test subject's name: `
roc all fit factor:rip model, (4) The respirator filter or cartridge needs rem Normal Breathing. The test subject shall
of
overall
fi for used: style,ar,,,size to be repeated with the CNP testg remove and re-don the respirator
and date tested. manifold. one-minute or. p within a
�• Controlled negative �
I' d r.e�atThe inhalation valve downstream minor` period. Then. inta normal
pressure (CNP) from the standing
quantitative fit testing e omanifold either needs to be temporarily subject Position, without rm talking, the
The CNP removed or propped open shall breathe normally for 1 minute.
provides an alternative
to aerosol fit test protocol provides
The CNP fit test (5) The test subject shall be trained to hold After the normal breaching exercise, the
subject shall hold his her her head for
ht
method0
technology is based on exhausting�r h�or,her breath for at least 20 seconds. ahead
froa tear. (6) The test subject shall don the test e and hold his or m breath for .
temporarily'sealed respirator
;aces respirator without any seconds duringthe test measurement.
ice to generate and then maintain a assistance from the the as�.re.:.ent.After
f•zoacepiece
t negative oindividual who conducts the CNP fit test. test exercises, the test subject shall be
g at .sur,, inside the
facefacepiece. The rate of air exhaust is (7) The QN , protocol shall be followed tOquestioned Qby the test conductor regarding
plied sothat a ustinegative according to section I. C. 1.of thisfo'pendi t,7o comfort of the respirator u g
. is maintained with an exception appendix completion of theprotocol. pop
:on-oli sprained constant the respirator for the CNP Ifit r become`�- s f atortest exercises. fel-
during fit test.Th,. level of Cb) CNP Test ExP unacceptable,another modelrespirator
pressure is Exercises.
of a esp.,a,or
duringd the replicate the eo inspiratory (1) Normal breathing. In a normal standingshall be cried.
n
selectee that causes the me into position, without talking• the subject shall (i(c) CNP Test instrument
s
rp:rator under causes
al use into thei breathe normally for 1 minute_After the ��) The test ins �ent shall have t
respirat held constant,air out of the;lith normal breathingexert effective audio warning device
cress
respirator is equal to air flow flow intoto hold head stright ahead and
subject his or subject fails to hold shallhwhen the test
the her breath for 10 seconds aurin hold or the test.T'rie test be or her breath during
respirator. measurement of theterminated
' punt r. earn that Therefore, required eo holdmeasurement. g the test whenever the test subject failed
oreire
sure in the temporarily sealed respirator the (2) Deep breathing. In a normal standing or her breath.The test subject to hold his
s oretant yields a direct measure of leakage
position, the subject shall breathe slowly a and rrecur may be refitted
co flow into the respirator. sur CNP fit et deeply for I minute, being careful not to and (2)uA record t the test shallcs kept
method measures leak mates through the eXyperventilate.After the deep breathingassuming the fit test the est subject's
u s on file.
exercise, the subject shall hold his or her record must contain the test sub cul.The
acepiece as a method for determining the head
straight ahead and hold his or her .1 . s name:
.acep1eCe overall fit factor:make, model.style and size
fit for negative pressure respirators, breath for
The CNP instrument manufacturer Dynatech 10 seconds during test of respirator used:and date tested.
e�'ada also provides attachments (sampling measurement.
:.anifolds) that replace the filter P g (3) Turning head side to side. Part 11.New Fit Test Protocols
permit fit testing in anc employee's h c ridges to place,the subject shall slowlyturn
ngor in A.Any perS0n may
own head from side to side between rn his or her application fora submit to OSHA an
ermittot To g ithe test, s test en the extreme approval of a new fit test
ubjecobject closes his perform her mouth and holds Positions on each side for 1 minute.The protocol.If the application meets the
i
t
clobrses
s afterswhich an air shall be held at each extreme momentarily so following criteria.proceeding
under initiate a
pump the subject can inhale at each side.After S0 o f the OSH
ng proceeding section 6 b
the of the Act to determine whether to }(7)
lisp
L282 Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 5 / Thursday, January 8. 1998 / Rules and Regulations
•
he new protocol.as an approved protocol in pot. and/or negative pressure check Appends. .o§1910.134:OSHA Respirator
his Appendix A. procedures provided that the employer Medical Evaluation Questionnaire
B.The application must include a detailed demonstrates that the manufacturer's (Mandatory)
iesc'iption of the proposed new fit test procedures are equally effective. To the employer:Answers to questions in
irotocol.This application must be supported
either. Appendix B-2 to§1910.134:Respirator Section 1.and to question 9 in Section 2 of
y Part A.do not require a medical examination.
I.A test report prepared by an Cleaning Procedures (Mandatory) To the employee:
ndependent government research laboratory These procedures are provided for
e.g..Lawrence Livermore National Can you read (circle one):Yes/No
employer use when cleaning respirators.
.aboratory.Los Alamos National Laboratory. Your employer must allow you to answer
he National Institute for Standards and They are general in nature,and the employer
this questionnaire during normal working
as an alternative mayuse the cleaning
enology)stating that the laboratory has hours,or at a time and place that is
°wed the protocol and had found it to be recommendations provided by the
convenient to you.To maintain your
Lc=.rate and reliable:or manufacturer of the respirators used by their confidentiality,your employer or supervisor
2.An article that has been published in a employees,provided such procedures are as must not look at or review your answers,and
--reviewed industrial hygiene journal effective as those listed here in Appendix B- your employer must tell you how to deliver
i es.-ibing the protocol and explaining how 2..-Equivalent effectiveness simply means that or send this questionnaire to the health care
est data support the protocol's accuracy and the procedures used must accomplish the professional who will review it.
'eliability. • objectives set forth in Appendix B-2, i.e.. Part A.Section I. (Mandatory)The
C.If OSHA determines that additional must ensure that the respirator is properly following information must be provided by
reformation is required before the Agency cleaned and disinfected in a manner that every employee who has been selected to use
�mmences a rulemaking proceeding under prevents damage to the respirator and does anytypeof respirator(please print).
his section.OSHA will so notify the g P P P
applicant and afford the applicant the not cause harm to the user. I.Today's date:
i000rtunity to submit the supplemental I.Procedures for Cleaning Respirators 2.Your name:
nlfor:nation.Initiation of a rulemaking 3.Your age (to nearest year):
Droceeding will be deferred until OSHA has A.Remove filters,cartridges,or canisters.
-eceived and evaluated the supplemental Disassemble facepieces by removing speaking 4.Sex (circle one): Male/Female
n.formation. diaphragms. demand and pressure-demand 5.Your height: ft. in.
appendix B-1 to§1910.134: User Seal valve assemblies,hoses, or any components 6.Your weight: lbs.
:heck Procedures (Mandatory) recommended by the manufacturer.Discard 7.Your job title:
or repair any defective parts. 8.A phone number where you can be
The individual who uses alight-fitting B.Wash components in warm(43°C 1110° reached by the health care professional
-espir ator is to perform a user seal check.to ; who reviews thisquestionnaire in
!rsure that an adequate seal is achieved each r maximum) water with a mild detergent or (include
with a cleaner recommended bythe the Area Code):
irne the respirator is put on. Either the
positive and negative pressure checks listed manufacturer.A stiff bristle (not wire) brush 9.The best time to phone you at this number:
n this appendix. or the respirator , may be used to facilitate the removal of dirt.
r.anufacturer's recommended user seal check C.Rinse components thoroughly in clean. 10. Has your employer told you how to
-1e►nod shall be used. User seal checks are warm (43°C 1110°F) maximum),preferably contact the health care professional who
-,o:substitutes for qualitative or quantitative running water. Drain. will review this questionnaire (circle one):
sit tests. D.When the cleaner used does not contain Yes/No
• a disinfectingagent, respirator components
11.Check the type of respirator you will use
aceriece Positive and/or Negative g� P P
Pressure h (you can check more than one category):
Chec.Ys should be immersed for two minutes in one
A. Positive pressure check. Close off the of the following: a. N, R. or P disposable respirator
1.Hypochlorite solution (50ppm of (filter-mask. non-cartridge type
2x1-.alation valve and exhale gently into the yP b` only).b. Other type (for example. half- or
acepiece.The face fit is considered chlorine) made by adding approximately one full-facepiece type. P owered-a i r
>atisfactory if a slight positive pressure can milliliter of laundry bleach to one liter of
ee built up inside the facepiece without any water at 43°C (110°F);or, purifying,supplied-air,self-contained
breathing apparatus).
evidence of outward leakage of air at the seal. 2.Aqueous solution of iodine (50 ppm
=or most respirators this method of leak iodine) made by adding approximately 0.8 12. Have you worn a respirator (circle one)
esting requires the wearer to first remove theYes/No
milliliters of tincture of iodine (6-8 grams
:xhalation valve cover before closing off the ammonium and/or potassium iodide/100 cc If-yes,• what type(s):
L�h.alation valve and then carefully replacing of 45%alcohol) to one liter of water at 43°
.: after the test. C (110°B. Negative pressure check.Close off the F):or, Part A.Section 2. (Mandatory) Questions 1
Hier opening of the canister or cartridges) by 3.Other commercially available cleansers through 9 below must be answered by every
covering with the palm of the hand(s) or by
of equivalent disinfectant quality when used employee who has been selected to use any
-eplacing the filter seal(s),inhale gently so as directed.if their use is recommended or type of respirator (please circle -yes- or
.hat the facepiece collapses slightly,and hold approved by the respirator manufacturer. 'no").
:he breath for ten seconds.The design of the E.Rinse components thoroughly in clean, 1.Do you currently smoke tobacco,or have
:islet opening of some cartridges cannot be warm (43°C 1110°Fl maximum),preferably you smoked tobacco in the last month:
i ecively covered with the palm of the running water. Drain.The importance of Yes/No
;and.The test can be performed by covering thorough rinsing cannot be overemphasized. 2.Have you ever had any of the following
:he inlet opening of the cartridge with a thin Detergents or disinfectants that dry on conditions?
latex or nitrile glove.If the facepiece remains facepieces may result in dermatitis.In a.Seizures (fits):Yes/No
in its slightly collapsed condition and noaddition,some disinfectants may cause b. Diabetes (sugar disease):Yes/No
inward leakage of air is detected,the deterioration of rubber or corrosion of metal c.Allergic reactions that interfere with
rightness of the respirator is considered parrts if riot completely removed. your breathing:Yes/No
satisfactory. d.Claustrophobia (fear of closed-in places):
F.Components should be hand-dried with Yes/No
II. Manufacturer's Recommended User Seal a clean lint-free cloth or air-dried. e.Trouble smellingodors:Yes/No
Check Procedures C.Reassemble facepiece.replacing filters,
P P g 3.Have you ever had any of the following
The respirator manufacturer's cartridges.and canisters where necessary. pulmonary or lung problems?'
recommended procedures for performing a H.Test the respirator to ensure that all a.Asbestosis:Yes/No
user seal check may be used instead of the components work properly. b.Asthma:Yes/No
Federal Resister / Vol. 63, No. 5 / Thursday, January 8, 1998 / Rules and
Regulations 12$3
c.Chronic bronchitis:Yes/No
d.emphysema:Yes/No d.Seizures(fits):Yes/No ---
$-If you've used a respirator,have you ever chest•or other symptoms when you're
e.Pneumonia:Yes/No had anyof the workin under
Tuberculosis: es/No following problems?at 2.At work or these conditions:b Yes/No
f g.Silicosis: s Yes/No
you've never used a respirator,check the f home,have l you ever been
h. lung):Yes/No following space and go to question 9:) exposed to hazardous c solvents,
i. Pneumothorax cancer•. (collapsed a.Eye irritation:Yes/No hazardous airborne chemicals e. .
b.Skin allergies or rash ga5eS.fumes,or dust or ( g'
Lung ). have
j.Broken ribs:Yes/No c.Anxiety: es es:Yes/No into skin contactyou come
k.Any chest injuries or surgeries:Yes/No ry ° with hazardous
I.Any other lung problem that you've been d.General weakness or fatigue:Yes/NoIf
chemicals'Yes/No
told about:Yes/No e.Any other problem that interferes with '.yam•.. name the chemicals if you know
4.Do you currently have any of the folIowinyour use of a respirator:Yes/No them:
symptoms of pulmonary or lung illness?
9'Would you like to talk to the health care
a.Shortness of breath:Yes/No professional who will review this
b.Shortness of breath when walking fast questionnaire about your answers to this
on level ground or walking up a slight questionnaire:Yes/No 3.Have you ever worked with any of the
hill or incline:Yes/No Questions 10 to 15 below must be materials,or under any of the conditions.
c.Shortness of breath when walking with answered by every employee who has beena.listed below:
other people at an ordinary pace on level selected to use either a full-facepiece b.Asbestos:Yes/No
ground:Yes/No respirator or a self-contained breathing b.Silica (e.g.,in sandblasting):Yes/No
d. Have to stop for breath when walking at apparatus (SCBA).For employees who have °-Tungsten/cobalt (e.g.,grindingor
your own pace on level ground:Yes/No been selected to use other types of welding this material):Yes/No
e.Shortness of breath washing or respirators, answering these questions is d.Beryllium: Yes/No
dressing yourself:Yes/Nowhen No
voluntary. e.Aluminum: pie,
f.Shortness of breath that interferes with 10.Have you ever lost vision in eitherf. Coal (for example,mining):
your job:Yes/No eve p in�n�.Yes/No
(temporarily or permanently):Yes/No g.Iron:Yes/No
g. Coughing that produces phlegm (thick
11.Do you currently have any of the h.Tin:
sputum): Yes/No Yes/No
following vision problems? i.Dusty environments:Yes/No
a.Wear contact lenses:Yes/No
h.Coughing that wakes you early in the
morning:Yes/No b.Wear glasses:Yes/No J.Any other hazardous exposures:Yes/No
i.Coughing that occurs mostly when you c.Color blind:Yes/No If..yam,..describe these e. A
are lying down:Yes/No �osur,s
e.Any other eye or vision problem:Yes'
j.Coughing up blood in the last month; No
Yes/No 12.Have you ever had an ' '
k. Wheezing:Yes/No injury to your ears, 4. List any second jobs or side busing
I. Wheezing that interferes with your job: 13. Doncluding a broken ear drum:Yes/No have-
Yes/No
you
Yes/Noyou currently have any of the
m. Chest pain when you breathe dee ply: a.following hearing problems?
Yes/No p. ifficulty hearing:Yes/No 5. List your previous occupations:
n. Any other symptoms that you think may b.Wear a hearing aid:Yes/No
be related to lung problems: Yes/No c.Any other hearing or ear problem:Yes/ 6. List
oyour cutter;and previous hobbies: _
. Have you ever had any of the following 14. Have ever
cardiovascular or heart problems? you had a back injury. Yes/No
a. Hear,attack:Yes/No 15. Do you currently have any of the 7. Have you been in the military
b. Stroke: Yes/No following musculoskeletal problems? Yes/No services?
s,,.vices?
c.Angina: Yes/No a. Weakness in anyof your arms. hands. If"yes,"were ou e
d. Heart failure:Yes/No legs,or feet: Yes/No yexposed to biological or
b. Back pain: Yes/No chemical agents (either in training or
p. Swelling in your legs or feet (not caused c. Difficulty
combat):
by ning):Yes/No ficulty fully movingyour arms and Yes/No
legs: Yes/No " 8. Have you ever worked on a HAZMAT
f. Heart arrhythmia (heart beating team?Y� T
irregularly):Yes/No d.Pain or stillness when you lean forward �s/ho
ro. High blood pressure:Yes/No or backward at the waist:Yes/No 9.Other than medications for breathing and
e.Difficul lung pre.an zs,hear trouble, blood
Any other heart problem that you've fully moving your head up or r
been told about:Yes/No down: Yes/No
pressure.and seizures mentioned earlier
� Have f. Difficultyfullymovingyourin this questionnaire. are t��
you ever had any of the followinghead side toyou taking any
diovascular or heart symptoms?
side:Yes/No othermedications for any reason
a. :=r Frequent pain or tightness in your chest: g• Difficulty bending at your knees:Yes/No (including over-the-counter
Yes/No h. Difficulty squatting to the ground:Yes] medications):Yes/No
o.Pain or tightness in your chest•during No If'yes."name the medications if you know
physical activity:Yes/No i. Climbing a flight of stairs or a ladder them:
c. Pain or tightness in your chest that carrying more than 25 lbs:Yes/No10.Willyou be using any of the following
interferes with your job:Yes/No j.Any other muscle or skeletal problem items with your respirator(s)?
d. In the past two years•have you noticed that interferes with using a respirator:
a.NEPA Filters: p (s)
your heart skipping or missinga beat: Yes/No pYes/No
Yes/No pp g b.Canisters (for example,gas
Part B Any of the following questions, No p ) Yes/
e. Heartburn or indigestion that is not and other questions not
related to eating:Yes/Nolisted, may be added c.Cartridges: Yes/No
f.Any other symptoms thatyou thinkto the questionnaire at the discretion of the 11.How often are you expected
mayhealth care professional who will review the respirator(s) (circle-yes- d to use the
be related to heart or circulation questionnaire. res irate. yes or"no"for all
pr°blerrLs.Yes/Noanswers that apply to you)?:
�'o you currently take medication for any1.In your present job,are you working at aEscape only
high altitudes (over 5.000 feet) (no rescue):nly: Yes/No
of the following problems? or in a b.Emergency rescue only:Yes/No
er wours
Breathing or lung problems:Yes/No place that has lower than normal c.Less than 5 h
Heart trouble:Yes/No amounts of oxygen:yeS/No P eek:Yes/No
d.Lessthan2 hours per day.Yesllvo
_. Blood pressure:Yes/No If..Yes."do you have feelings of dizziness. e.2 to 4 h
shortness of breath,pounding in your °urs per day:Yes/No
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By Colin A.Campbell
OSHA mandates ttwo-outn
o the fireground
The Occupational Safety and Health some volunteer firefighters from OSHA advance in firefighter safety."This regu-
Administration has issued revised reg- regulations. (For a fuller treatment of lation is a lifesaver for the men and
ulations dealing with respirator protec- who is covered by OSHA regulations,see women whose job it is to save lives;'said
' tion on the job,coveringan estimated Lex de Incendiis,Sept.1995.) IAFF President Alfred K. Whitehead.
5 p
million workers in 1.3 million work- Previously, two-in,two-out was not The National Volunteer Fire Council
places, including firefighters. Part of a regulation,but part of an interpreta- also supports the new standard.
the new regulations requires that no tion of safety regulations issued in 1995 On the other hand,critics of the poi-
fewer than four firefighters must be on by Assistant Secretary of Labor James icy say that it's inflexible,especially for
scene during interior operations, two Stanley, and as such did not have the those departments that cannot meet
of whom must be outside the immedi- force of law. NFPA 1500, Fire Depart- the required staffing levels.Also,there's
ately dangerous to life or health atmos- ment Occupational Safety and Health the sense that this isn't a matter for the
phere. Program, also covers the same ground, federal government to dictate to local t-.
Specifically,the two firefighters who and according to sources familiar with agencies. �Qf;
enter the IDLH atmosphere must remain the issue,departments already comply- "The regulation is really a common-
f f
:t
in visual contact with each other.One of ing with that standard will probably sense issue,"said Chief John Buckman 4;
the two individuals outside the IDLH also be in compliance with the new of the German Townshipa
p (Ind.) Vol- � ��F
,:
atmosphere may be asigned to an addi- regulations.Two-in,two-out was origi- unteer Fire Department, and formers
tional role,such as is or safety officer,so nally proposed as a tentative interim chairman of the IAFC'S Volunteer Chief f
t
long as he or she is able to render assis- amendment to NFPA 1500, and was Officers Section,in an e-mail message
tance or perform rescue activities with- incorporated in the 1997 edition of the to FIRE CHIEF."We shouldn't be putting
out jeopardizing any other firefighter standard. firefighters in exposed situations with-
? working at the incident.Also,nothing in Reaction to the new regulation in the out having a rescue team of two imme- "
the regulation prohibits the emergency fire service was mixed. The Inter- diately available,but the concern I have
rescue of a civilian before an entire team national Association of Fire Fighters, is that the government continues to pass
of four is assembled. which has long supported two-in,two- regulations that are really best deter- :R
The new regulations do not auto- out, praised the regulation as an mined at the local level."
matically apply to all fire departments,
however. OSHA regulations have the
force of law over federal fire agencies ATF to establish arson re o 1t
r
Y
and private fire brigades,such as indus- :•
trial fire brigades, but they do not Congress has directed the Bureau of develop leads and allow managers to
directly apply to state and local agen- Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms to prioritize investigative efforts and allo-
cies. In 23 states, the two-in, two-out establish a national repository of infor- cate resources.
rule will come into force as a function mation on arson incidents and the sus- The ATF is seeking comments and
_ of state regulation,because these states pected criminal misuse of explosives. ideas from fire service agencies,law en-
have previously agreed to adopt stan- All federal agencies with information forcement and community organiza-
dards at least as stringent as OSHA'S reg- on arson and misuse of explosives have tions regarding how the system can best
ulations no later than six months after been ordered to report that informa- meet their needs. Refer questions or
the agency does(by July,in this case). tion to the ATF, and state and local comments to:National Repository,ATF,
These states are Alaska, Arizona, authorities are also being encouraged Arson and Explosives Division, 65o
:;
California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Indi- to report similar information to the Massachusetts Ave.N.W.,Washington, A-
ana, Iowa, Kentucky,Maryland, Mich- bureau. D.C.20226,or call the chief of the Arson
igan,Minnesota,Nevada,New Mexico, The national repository will be and Explosives Division at 202-927- 3
New York, North Carolina, Oregon, known as the Arson and Explosives 7930.
South Carolina,Tennessee, Utah,Ver- Incident System (AExIs),an extension Separately,the ATF, in cooperation ti
mont,Virginia,Washington and Wyo- of the Explosives Incident System with the Universityof Maryland, is
5-
ming.In addition,Puerto Rico and the (Ex's),the existing explosives incidents planning to build a$62 million federal °=
U.S.Virgin Islands must also adopt a database maintained byfacility p the ATF.For the fire research near uM's campus
comparableMd. Plans call for the standard. The rest of the past 22 years, Ex's has been used in in College Park, , i" .
states aren't obliged to adopt two-in, explosives investigations,linking inci- project to include a new national labo- �D
two-out. dents by device,target,motive and sus- ratory for the ATF,which will work with F
.1'
Another complication is that even pect. the university's Fire Protection En-
states that adopt osHA-comparable reg- AEXIS users will be able to query the gineering Department to develop re- ,�.:
ulations aren't required to treat career system by county, state, region or search methods and projects,such ase.
`
and volunteers firefighters the same. nationwide,looking for similarities and reconstructing fire scenes and testing
Some states,such as Alaska,do require trends in device construction,place- ignition scenarios.Funding for the facil-
all fire agencies to follow the same rules, ment,methods of initiation,targets and ity has been approved by Congress and
but others, such as North Carolina, even suspects. Information gleaned President Clinton,and it's scheduled to
Kentucky and Wyoming,exempt all or from the system will help investigators be operational by 2001.
12 FIRE CHIEF/February 1998