High Rise Operations Engineer

Question 1

Pre fire planning - 5 things to know

Answer 1

1. Location of hydrants
2. Location(s) of FDC connections
3. Number of stories
4. Building with fire pumps
5. Building pump operating pressure

Question 2

First arriving engine assignment

Answer 2

• Go straight to the hydrant closest to the FDC.
• If hydrant pressure is less then 100 psi there is a need to tandem pump.

Question 3

Considerations when pumping a high rise.

Answer 3

• When possible face pump panel away from the building, on a corner, in case of falling debris
• Maximize supply by using all available hydrant ports.

Question 4

First arriving engineer communication

Answer 4

• Quickly determine need (or not) of tandem pumping.
• If no need for tandem pumping communicate to 2nd arriving engine then over haul to FDC from engine 1.
• If there is a need for tandem pumping coordinate with 2nd arriving engine. They will position to supply FDC and first arriving will supply them.

Question 5

2nd engine driver responsibilities with tandem pumping if needed or not needed.

Answer 5

• Position and prepare to supply FDC
• Communicate with supply engine for hose connections and pressure needs.
  If tandem operation is not needed, 2nd arriving engine crew will stay together for another assignment.

Question 6

Connection to the FDC

Answer 6

• Use the same size and all available connections when setting up the FDC.
• Connect to all ports before pumping. Not all FDC’s are clappered.

Question 7

Understand what you are connecting to. Options?

Answer 7

• standpipe
• sprinkler system
• combination system

Question 8

What to check before connecting to the FDC

Answer 8

Make sure all ports are clear of debris

Question 9

Pump Discharge pressure (PDP) will be:

Answer 9

• FL for hose to FDC.
• FL for FDC connection
• EP (total number of floors x5)
• FL for handline operating from standpipe.
• Nozzle pressure

PDP= NP+FL +/- EP+AFL

Question 10

What to do if building is equipped with a fire pump.

Answer 10

• Supply the FDC whether it is wet or dry.
• PDP will be 10 psi below the rating of the building pump
• Be prepared to throttle up to the “building pressure” if the pump fails or is unable to keep up.
  Notify incident command ASAP if engine takes over for building pump.

Question 11

Keep cool

Answer 11

Take steps to keep pump cool if supplying a building. The pump may not move water over an extended period of time.

Question 12

Pump rated capacity

Answer 12

Attempt to keep Net Pump Discharge Pressure (NPDP) at pump rated capacities or lower whenever possible. (150 psi)

Question 13

As the engineer pumping. Safety measures during the operation

Answer 13

• Stay in a safe area under compartment doors.
• Light up the scene
• protect hose from falling debris, vehicles, and other hazards
• Position spare SCBA bottles and other equipment so they are accessible to shuttle to crews.