APPARATUS: THE SHOPS by Michael Huber

Fire apparatus safety has significantly evolved over the years, driven by advancements in technology, engineering, and firefighter safety standards.

Early in my fire service career, we rode on the back step and stood in open jump seat areas—neither of which had seat belts. The only secured position was the driver’s seat, equipped with nothing more than a lap belt. Believe it or not, our warning light system consisted of a single rotating beacon on the roof. Looking back on those so-called “good old days,” it’s clear that we operated with minimal regard for safety compared to today’s enhancements.

As my career progressed, so did our focus, shifting toward safety and survival. Today, fire apparatus and crew safety are paramount in emergency response operations. Given the inherently hazardous nature of firefighting, it is crucial that fire apparatus are designed, maintained, and operated with safety as the top priority.

Safety features on fire apparatus play a crucial role in the work of emergency vehicle technicians (EVTs). As an EVT, understanding, maintaining, and troubleshooting these systems is essential to ensuring the safety of both fire personnel and technicians. With evolving standards, advanced electronics, and increasingly complex operating systems, it is imperative that EVTs receive regular training to stay current with the latest fire apparatus technologies.

Repairing and diagnosing issues with safety features on fire apparatus require a systematic approach, specialized knowledge, and adherence to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards.

Following are key points for performing a systematic diagnosis on safety features.

Conduct a visual inspection. Check for damaged wiring, loose connections, or blown fuses in safety-related electrical systems. Inspect hydraulic, air, and mechanical systems for leaks or wear and ensure safety labels and indicators are intact and readable.

Use diagnostic tools by connecting to the onboard diagnostic system (OBD-II or J1939 CAN bus). Use manufacturer-specific diagnostic software. And, perform manual sensor and switch tests (seat belt sensors, door switches, etc.).

Verify electrical and sensor operations. Check for fault codes related to safety features. Use a multimeter to check voltage and continuity in circuits. Do not stick probes in wires—this will lead to bigger issues. Test relays, solenoids, and actuators involved in safety functions.

Be sure to test safety systems in a controlled environment. Perform air brake tests according to NFPA 1910, Standard for the Inspection, Maintenance, Refurbishment, Testing, and Retirement of In-Service Emergency Vehicles and Marine Firefighting Vessels. For lighting and warning systems, verify flash patterns, siren operation, and dashboard indicators. For seat belt and occupant safety systems, check proper engagement and alarms. Finally, for aerial devices and interlocks, confirm proper engagement sequences.

SRS WIRING ON FIRE APPARATUS

When diagnosing and repairing safety systems, it’s crucial to recognize supplemental restraint system (SRS) wiring, as accidental air bag deployment can be dangerous. Look for yellow loom or tape. Many manufacturers use yellow sheathing or tape to mark air bag-related wiring. Air bag system connectors are often yellow for easy identification. In some cases, SRS wiring may be integrated into a broader harness and not distinctly marked.

When handling SRS wiring, always disconnect the battery and wait according to manufacturer guidelines before servicing SRS components. Never probe SRS wiring with a multimeter; this could trigger deployment. Follow manufacturer repair procedures to avoid accidental activation. While yellow markings are a strong indicator of air bag wiring, always verify by using wiring diagrams and service manuals before proceeding with repairs.

Following are key areas where modern fire apparatus contributes to crew and EVT safety.

Fire Apparatus Safety Features

• Structural integrity and crashworthiness: Modern fire apparatus are built with reinforced cabs, rollover protection, and energy-absorbing materials to protect occupants in case of an accident.
• Seat belts and restraints: NFPA 1550, Standard for Emergency Responder Health and Safety, mandates the use of seat belts and safety restraints for all personnel while the vehicle is in motion. It includes retractable and high-visibility seat belts to encourage use.
• Ergonomic design: Steps, handrails, and nonslip surfaces help prevent slips and falls when firefighters enter and exit the apparatus.
• Thermal protection: Cab insulation and heat shields help protect firefighters from extreme temperatures and hazardous environments.
• Vehicle-mounted scene lighting: This provides better illumination at emergency scenes.
• Tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS): The systems warn drivers of underinflated tires, preventing blowouts and rollovers.
• Backup cameras and 360-degree monitoring: These improve driver visibility and help prevent collisions with obstacles or personnel.

Driver and Operator Safety

• Emergency vehicle operations training (EVOC): Proper training ensures safe operation, reducing accidents caused by speed, poor maneuvering, or loss of control.
• Vehicle stability and handling: Modern fire apparatus are equipped with electronic stability control, antilock braking systems (ABS), and traction control to prevent rollovers and skidding.
• Visibility enhancements: High-visibility chevron striping, LED emergency lighting, and reflective materials increase apparatus visibility, reducing the risk of collisions.

Scene Safety and Firefighter Protection

• Traffic incident management (TIM): Fire apparatus are now equipped with warning lights, audible signals, and traffic cones to secure emergency scenes and protect firefighters from oncoming traffic.
• On-scene communications: Integrated radio systems and headsets allow clear communication between firefighters and dispatch, enhancing situational awareness. Interoperability has been achieved with modern radio systems.
• Use of blocking apparatus^: Position larger apparatus to shield firefighters from traffic.
• Automated traffic control devices: Devices include deployable warning lights and arrow sticks.
• Integration of modern mapping programs: Modern mapping programs receive a signal from apparatus operating on the scene and alert the drivers.

Maintenance and Inspection Protocols

• Preventive maintenance (PM): Regular inspections and servicing of brakes, tires, suspension, and emergency equipment ensure vehicles remain in peak operating condition.
• Pretrip and post-trip inspections: Daily checks verify that lights, sirens, hoses, ladders, and other equipment are operational before responding to calls.
• Telematics and monitoring: Real-time data tracking systems alert fleet managers to mechanical issues, driving behaviors, and equipment malfunctions.

Equipment Safety and Storage

• Secured tools and gear: Proper mounting and storage of equipment prevent loose items from becoming projectiles in a crash.
• Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) storage: Secure compartments ensure SCBA are protected and easily accessible during emergencies; they are equipped with quick-release systems.
• Ergonomic equipment access: Slide-out trays, lift assists, and hydraulic doors reduce physical strain and prevent injuries.
• Lower hosebed and equipment mounting: This reduces climbing risks and improves access to tools.

Firefighter Health and Exposure Reduction

• Clean cab initiatives: Separate contaminated gear from the crew area to reduce carcinogen exposure.
• Integrated decontamination systems: Some modern apparatus have built-in wash stations to clean gear after exposure to hazardous materials.
• Cab air filtration systems: HEPA and charcoal filters improve air quality inside the cab, reducing exposure to smoke and toxins.

Industry Accepted Standard

NFPA 1900, Standard for Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Vehicles, Automotive Fire Apparatus, Wildland Fire Apparatus, and Automotive Ambulances, is a consolidated standard that combines and replaces three previous fire apparatus standards:

• NFPA 1901, Standard for Automotive Fire Apparatus.
• NFPA 1906, Standard for Wildland Fire Apparatus.
• NFPA 414, Standard for Aircraft Rescue and Fire-Fighting Vehicles.

By merging three standards into one, NFPA 1900 simplifies compliance for fire departments, manufacturers, and maintenance personnel. It ensures that all fire apparatus—structural, wildland, rescue, and specialized—meet modern safety and operational requirements.

Fire apparatus are more than just vehicles; they are mobile command centers and lifelines for firefighters. Apparatus have become significantly safer because of engineering advancements, regulatory improvements, and a greater focus on firefighter health and safety. These innovations have collectively reduced accidents, improved crew survivability, and enhanced operational efficiency, making firefighting more effective and less hazardous. Ensuring their safety through proper design, training, maintenance, and operational procedures significantly reduces risks to firefighters and enhances their ability to perform life-saving duties effectively.

related content

• How to Handle Warranty Repairs and Maximize Manufacturer Support
• Fire Apparatus Technology: The Impact on Repair and Maintenance
• Ensuring Safety and Function: The Crucial Role of Fire Apparatus Factory Inspections
• Maximizing the Efficiency of Your Fleet

MICHAEL HUBER is a fire apparatus driver/ operator and fire apparatus fleet manager for the Baltimore County (MD) Fire Department.