OSHA releases fire service manual

Fire Service Features of Buildings and Fire Protection Systems is a new OSHA publication that will help increase the safety of building occupants and emergency responders by streamlining fire service interaction with building features and fire protection systems.

Fire service operations take place in stressful and time sensitive environments. Decisions are often made in unfamiliar settings and without vital information, such as what is burning, where the fire is spreading, or the location of occupants. Poorly located fire hydrants, inaccessible fire department connections, confusing zone information, unmarked valves, or improperly designed standpipes are examples of features that can slow fire service operations. Delays, however brief, can dramatically affect an operation and its outcome.

OSHA’s new manual explains how fire service operations can be influenced by different building features. The manual includes chapters and narratives on building and site design, sprinkler systems, standpipe systems, fire department connections, fire alarm and communications systems, as well as various firefighting systems.

The manual can be used by company safety managers and fire service organizations to increase fire safety and decrease injuries to responding and operating fire service personnel. Employee occupants as well as fire service employees will benefit from the safer working conditions. The manual will also help in response to other emergencies, such as hazardous materials releases, emergency medical care, non-fire rescues and terrorist events.

The new booklet can be downloaded from the publications page of OSHA’s web site, www.osha.gov, or by calling OSHA's publications office at (202) 693-1888.