National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1901, Standard for Automotive Fire Apparatus, does not require an onboard generator on any of its various apparatus classifications. Nor does it require one under what specific minor equipment “shall be available” before a rig is placed in service.
Is a Single Pump Discharge Pressure Feasible?
As long as the rig has an adequate water supply, and no one is screaming on the radio to raise or lower pump pressures, pump operators might let the pump do its own thing. Regardless of the reason, a lackadaisical attitude might develop that could be inherently dangerous on the fireground.
Defending Specification Requirements
Mandating service requirements is admirable. However, purchasers should realize there can be and probably should be a difference in providing “service” applicable to warranty issues and providing general “everyday” service and general maintenance capabilities.
Why Is This in Your Specs?
If the real intent of writing what could be considered proprietary dimensions is to ensure the success of a preferred vendor, then so be it. Just bear in mind that the decision to write such a specification may have to be justified in a public forum.
Abusing and Misusing the Bidder Complies Format
This narration covers the possible abuse or misuse of the “Bidder Complies” format. The Bidder Complies format is almost a fire service standard when writing purchasing specifications.
Warning Light Glare and the SAE
Lately the fire service, warning light manufacturers, pundits, commentators, and safety gurus alike have advocated doing something about the glare or distraction of warning lights that people say can, could, may, or might be a cause or a contributing factor of accidents.
Changes in Apparatus Purchasing and Attitudes
There’s been a fundamental change in the traditional “competitive bid” process used to purchase apparatus as well as noticeable changes in the attitudes of some apparatus buyers and sellers.
More on Clean Cabs
Some proponents of the concept advocate keeping turnout gear (personal protective clothing) out of the crew cab at all times. There is no questioning keeping contaminated gear out of the cab
Are “High and Slow” Warning Lights Feasible?
This article does NOT address warning lights when responding. However, some comments made could be applicable to that mode. It addresses warning lights used in the blocking-the-right-of-way mode.
Purchasing Specifications or Textbook, Part 2
By Bill Adams Part 1 described my personal opinion that fire apparatus purchasing specifications can be “short and sweet” and right to the point. They should not be used as a textbook or an educational tool for the fire department. Four scenarios were pointed out. A...
Purchasing Specifications or Textbook, Part 1
There is no logical justification for a purchaser to explain each infinitesimal feature of a component part, how it works, and why it is being specified. That rationalization should be done at a committee level. At the same time, it is not the APC’s job to explain to potential bidders how each widget specified works.
Regional and Local Trade Show Benefits
At regional and local shows, most of the rigs are already bought. They’re mostly from local departments, and some are even in service. Potential buyers have the opportunity to observe exactly what other people purchased and often get to ask the end user why something was specified.