IFSTA CH 8 Ground Ladders + CFD Ladders Manual

Question 1

CFD Ladder uses

Answer 1

• Rescue
• Egress/Access
• Roof Operations
• Hose stream placement
• Ventilation
• Salvage and overhaul
• Ice rescue
• Bracing

Question 2

Ladders used by CFD

Answer 2

constructed of aluminum and are of the “solid beam” variety

Question 3

Two Manufacturers of ladders

Answer 3

Duo-safety
Alco-lite

Question 4

Duo-safety ladders

Answer 4

Ladder beams are solid construction and smooth

Rungs are welded into place

Thimble is located to protect working end halyard loop

Working end of halyard tied to an anchor

Pulley has some movement

Generally lighter in weight than Alco-lite

Question 5

alco-lite ladders

Answer 5

Ladder beams have I-beam construction

Rungs are pressed into place allowing replacement

Halyard tied directly to the ladder rungs

Pulley has no movement

Generally heavier than Duo-Safety ladders

Question 6

Folding Ladder (Little Giant Revolution 17)

Answer 6

Versatile

Can be used as an A-frame ladder, staircase ladder, 90 degree ladder or an extension ladder

Max. extension height is 15’
o Ladder weight – 37.5lbs
o Working load – 300lbs

Question 7

10’ Attic Ladder

Answer 7

Are lighter and fold into a tight configuration for storage or handling

o Ladder weight – 16lbs
o Working load – 300lbs

Question 8

12’ Fresno Ladder

Answer 8

Used indoor where space is limited (attic and cellar hatches)
Narrow width

o Ladder weight – 30lbs
o Working load – 750lbs

Question 9

14’ Roof Ladder

Answer 9

Straight frame ladder with two roof hooks at the tip

This ladder can be used for access to low windows, roof operations for traction on a steep pitch or to spread out weight, or gaining access to other objectives

o Ladder weight – 28lbs
o Working load – 750lbs

Question 10

16’ Roof ladder

Answer 10

Same as 14’ roof ladder

perfect for laddering bungalow roofs and first floor windows on many homes

Only one member is required to raise the ladder, and they are simple and fast to deploy

o Ladder weight – 39lbs
o Working load – 750lbs

Question 11

18’ Roof Ladder

Answer 11

Ideal for buildings with steeper pitched roofs

On many homes it will reach the second floor window and on commercial buildings will reach the roof

It can be raised by one member if a stationary object is available to butt against.

o Ladder weight – 44lbs
o Working load – 750lbs

Question 12

20’ Wall Ladder

Answer 12

Straight frame ladder

Good for 2nd floor windows or commercial building roofs

Must be butted against a stationary object to raise

o Ladder weight – 48lbs
o Working load – 750lbs

Question 13

24’ Extension Ladder

Answer 13

Most common ladder

Can reach roofs, windows and other objectives and is easily deployed by one member

o Ladder weight – 72lbs
o Working load – 750lbs

Question 14

28’ Extension Ladder

Answer 14

Extra 4 ft of reach, assuring access to windows on a high second floor or the roof on a 2-story structure

Can reach many 3rd story balconies

Largest ladder used for a single member raise

o Ladder weight – 87lbs
o Working load – 750lbs

Question 15

35’ 2 Section Extension Ladder

Answer 15

Raised by two members

Will reach many objectives including a 4th story window

o Ladder weight – 122lbs
o Working load – 750lbs

Question 16

35’ 3 Section Extension Ladder

Answer 16

offers the same reach as the above 35’ but the overall length is shorter when bedded

heavier and has an extra set of dawgs to lock

o ladder weight – 129lbs
o working load – 750lbs

Question 17

45’ 3 Section Bangor Ladder

Answer 17

will reach 5th story balcony or 4th story roof

different with the addition of tormentor poles

can be raised by two members if butted up against a stationary object and by three members if free raised

o ladder weight – 240lbs
o working load – 750lbs

Question 18

For safety reasons the number of personnel on a ladder should follow these guidelines unless under extreme situations

Answer 18

28 ft or less – 2 Firefighters maximum load

35 or more 3 Firefighters maximum load

NFPA requires all ladders to have a safety factor of 4:1

Question 19

Engine compliment

Answer 19

1x Folding Ladder (Combination Ladder)
1x 10’ Attic Ladder (Single Ladder)
1x 14’ Roof Ladder (Single Ladder)
1x 24’ Extension Ladder

Question 20

Heat Sensor

Answer 20

A label that changes colour to indicate the ladder has been subject to heat greater than 149°C (300°F)

Question 21

Cleaning

Answer 21

Ladders can be cleaned with a mild soapy solution, brush and warm water.

If the dogs are “sticky,” wash the contaminants out with citrol and warm water.

The dogs should then be lightly lubricated with spray silicone

Question 22

Repairs

Answer 22

Crews in the station can replace halyards by requesting a length of rope and a “Halyard Splice Kit.” If any other damage is noticed on the ladder, it must be tagged with damage location and type and sent in for repair

Question 23

Adjust the Butt

Answer 23

This positions the ladder to the objective, squares it to the building, or gives the proper climbing angle

Question 24

Primary carries

Answer 24

Low Shoulder Carry (28’ or Less)
High Shoulder Carry (28’ or Less)
Suitcase Carry (28’ or More)
Flat Carry
High/Low Carry

Question 25

High Shoulder Carry (28’ or Less) Advantages

Answer 25

* More versatile * More ergonomic * Less prone to injury * Faster deployment * Accurate deployment * One hand free * Stable raise

Question 26

High/Low Carry

Answer 26

This carry allows the ladder to be in a better position to be raised quickly and effectively, and also works well if there are two members of different heights

Question 27

what ladder heights are expected to be carried and thrown by one member

Answer 27

28’ in length or under

Question 28

ladder raises

Answer 28

beam raise and flat raise

Question 29

beam raise

Answer 29

This raise is ideal for narrow laneways, tight alleys and between buildings

Question 30

Flat raise

Answer 30

This raise is easier for the member raising the ladder, as well as the grounding member This raise is not always achievable due to obstructions, and the raise is slower than the beam raise

Question 31

Extending a 28' or less

Answer 31

A single-member extends ladders 28’ or less 4 contact points (foot, knee, shoulder and halyard) Slight lean to the building

Question 32

Extending 35’ Ladders

Answer 32

extended using two members Once the ladder is raised, it is appropriately located to avoid movement of the ladder after it is extended One member positions on the inside of the ladder, between the objective and the ladder itself. (This member is responsible for extending the fly sections using the halyard. ) The other member will position themselves on the fly section side of the ladder (this member is responsible for grounding the ladder and keeping it stable)

Question 33

Spotting the Ladder

Answer 33

The building should be approached at 90 degrees whenever possible Avoid setting the ladder in front of windows or doorways that could become involved in fire Try and determine the correct amount of extension before lowering the ladder into the objective Extending a ladder (two-section ladders, each click of the dog is 14”) (three-section ladders each click of the dog is 28”) 5 rungs above roofline if possible. This allows for a more comfortable and safer transition to the roof. When a window or opening is large enough for the ladder tip to go inside, and it will not impede entry/egress; two rungs should be placed above the sill line; this helps with the transition

Question 34

Climbing Angle

Answer 34

75 degrees for normal operations and 60 degrees for VEIS or emergency egress

Question 35

Positioning the ladder

Answer 35

The Calgary Fire Department utilizes ladders in the “fly-out” position but if needed the ladder can be used in the fly-in position The ladder should not be raised into the vertical position and crab-walked while extended

Question 36

Tying the Halyard

Answer 36

The CFD uses two half-hitches to tie the halyards on all ground ladders

Question 37

Climbing the Ladder

Answer 37

It is essential to climb the ladder with a smooth and steady rhythm When climbing the ladder with a tool, place the tool in your desired hand, and grasp the rear of the beam while maintaining your grip of the tool. (This allows you to maintain three points of contact.)

Question 38

Ground ladder safety factor

Answer 38

it is important to note that all ground ladders must have a safety factor of 4:1, required by NFPA.

Question 39

Operation of Ground Ladders

Answer 39

important to note how many members can operate on a ground ladder at any given time. Ladder loads should never exceed 750lbs  Ladders 28’ or Less – 2 Persons  Ladder 35’ or more – 3 Persons

Question 40

never leg lock on

Answer 40

an aerial ladder device

Question 41

different types of locks

Answer 41

knee lock heel lock tool lock leg lock

Question 42

knee lock

Answer 42

this lock is a quick and temporary lock performed by flexing your knees into the beams of the ladder. It can be used when receiving a victim or when breaking glass for VEIS

Question 43

heel lock

Answer 43

take your heel and put it through the ladder rung, locking it in one rung below; offers you a secure lock to the ladder and allows you the ability to move quickly if conditions change. This lock can be used with the lock opposite the working side or on the same side of the ladder

Question 44

tool lock

Answer 44

this lock can be used when ventilating windows and uses the tool as a lock. Simply put one arm on either side of the ladder beam grasping the tool, then vent the window. This lock can also be used in conjunction with other locks

Question 45

leg lock

Answer 45

this lock must be performed opposite the working side of the ladder. Reach the proper working height and climb one rung higher. Place the leg opposite of the work through the rung spacing and as the member’s knee approaches the rung bend the leg back toward the next rung. It is acceptable to lock the foot into the lower rung or onto the beam

Question 46

Offensive Ladder Position

Answer 46

This position involves having the ladder in a potentially hazardous area close to the fire location; this would include using a ladder for rescue, secondary means of egress, VEIS, horizontal ventilation, vertical ventilation using a roof ladder, or hose stream placement

Question 47

Defensive ladder position

Answer 47

A defensive ladder position can still be an offensive tactic. However, the ladder is placed in a position that allows you to start your task from an area of refuge.

Question 48

Offensive Ladder Positions

Answer 48

rescue VEIS hose stream placement egress ladders

Question 49

Offensive Ladder Positions - rescue

Answer 49

Rescue is not the same as VEIS; since the victim’s location is known and often seen, a search does not have to be performed The tip should be placed just below the sill for a window rescue, with a climbing angle of 65 degrees, allowing for a shallower climbing angle for the victim

Question 50

Offensive Ladder Positions - VEIS

Answer 50

This is performed in areas of tenability that may have a fire or heavy smoke involvement. The climbing angle should be placed at 60 degrees not to impede a rapid bailout if conditions deteriorate

Question 51

Offensive Ladder Positions - hose stream placement

Answer 51

be placed beside the window on the windward side. It may also be placed in the window opening with the tip up to one rung into the window. The climbing angle should be at 75 degrees, and a leg lock should be used while operating the hose line

Question 52

Offensive Ladder Positions - egress ladders

Answer 52

should be placed in the highest hazard areas first; in anticipation of where fire attack is, or will be operating The ladder should be placed with the tip just inside the sill. This makes the ladder visible to members on the interior of the building. The climbing angle should be set at 65 degrees to facilitate either a bailout or climb out of the window.

Question 53

horizontal ventilation - two acceptable ways to break glass

Answer 53

first is to use the ladder itself The second option is to break and clear the entire window from the ground ladder with a tool

Question 54

best option for ladder placement when breaking glass

Answer 54

The best option is with the ladder in line with the window(s) the tip of the ladder just below the sill at a 75-degree angle

Question 55

Vertical Ventilation With Roof Ladder

Answer 55

Place the ladder to the strongest point of the building available and in a location free of roof obstructions. The ladder should extend 3-5 rungs past the roofline. The climbing angle for this evolution should be at 75 degrees

Question 56

Vertical Ventilation (walkable Roof)

Answer 56

When laddering for roof operations on a walkable roof, operations should be started from the unburned side. Strong points of the roof should be considered when placing ladders. Peaks or ridges, or 8ft in from building corners

Question 57

Estimating Heights and Ladder Positions - residential

Answer 57

Story is about 10ft (3m) Distance from the floor to a windowsill average about 3ft (1m)

Question 58

Estimating Heights and Ladder Positions - commercial

Answer 58

Story averages 12ft (4m) Distance from the floor to a windowsill average about 4ft

Question 59

Hoisting a Ladder with a Rope

Answer 59

The ladder is left fully bedded with the fly towards the building Use a figure eight on a bight to secure the ladder around one third of the way down. When raised the tip should be pointed away from the building The end of the rope should be secured to an object if possible When lowering the ladder, turn it so the tip is facing the building.

Question 60

inspect ladders

Answer 60

after each use monthly

Question 61

Service testing ladders

Answer 61

Before being placed in service Annually while in service After any use that exposes them to high heat or rough treatment

Question 62

Ventilation placement of ladders

Answer 62

Upwind side of the window Tip even with the top of the window

Question 63

Single Ladders

Answer 63

Consist of one section of nonadjustable or fixed length

Question 64

Roof Ladders

Answer 64

Are single ladders equipped with folding hooks that provide means of anchoring the ladder over the ridge of a pitched roof or some other roof part The ladder distributes the firefighters weight and helps prevent slipping

Question 65

Extension Ladders

Answer 65

Consist of a base or bed section and one or more fly sections that travel in guides or brackets to permit length adjustments

Question 66

Following markings are commonly found on fire service ladders

Answer 66

Designated ladder length A manufacturers name plate Apparatus designation or a locally assigned inventory number White tip or reflective tape attached to tip A stripe – indicates balance point

Question 67

Use following guidelines when cleaning a ladder:

Answer 67

Use a soft bristle brush and running water to clean the ladder Remove tar, oil or greasy residues with mild soap and water or environmentally safe solvents and apply lubrication occasionally according to departmental SOPs and manufacturer recommendations Look for damage or wear while cleaning the ladder Wipe the ladder dry after cleaning or use

Question 68

ladder maintenance

Answer 68

Maintenance means keeping ladders in a state of usefulness and readiness

Question 69

ladder repairs

Answer 69

Repair means to restore or replace that which is damaged or worn out

Question 70

General maintenance requirements for ground ladders include the following:

Answer 70

Keeping ground ladders free of moisture Storing or position ladders where they are free from vehicle exhaust or engine heat Keeping ladders in an area where they are not exposed to the elements of weather Painting ladders only for the purpose of identification or visibility

Question 71

Before raising a ladder, consider:

Answer 71

presence of electrical hazards the position of the extension ladder fly section

Question 72

Following guidelines to avoid electrical contact hazards:

Answer 72

Look up to check for overhead electrical wires or equipment Look up again before raising the ladder Keep a distance of at least 10 feet from all energized electrical lines and equipment (circle of safety) Maintain this distance while raising the ladder, using the ladder and lowering the ladder Use an alternative method for raising the ladder if the ladder may come to rest a safe distance from electrical equipment but come too close to the equipment during the actual raise

Question 73

the position of the extension ladder fly section

Answer 73

Modern metal and fiberglass ladders are designed to be used with the fly out Wooden ladders that are designed with the rungs mounted in the top truss rail are intended to be used with the fly in

Question 74

Tying the halyard

Answer 74

Once an extension ladder is resting against a structure and before it is climbed, the excess halyard should be secured (tied off) to prevent anyone from becoming tangled in the rope when ascending or descending the ladder

Question 75

Safety considerations when carrying ground ladders include the following:

Answer 75

Avoid obstructions Maintain situational awareness of other firefighters at the scene Life the ladder with your legs Look ahead, scanning for obstruction, other people and trip hazards in front of you Use an appropriate number of personnel to carry the ladder based upon the conditions at the scene and the length of the ladder Work and communicate as a team Identify one member of your lift team as a team leader Carry roof ladders with the hooks closed Carry ladders with the butt end first to facilitate transition from a ladder carry to a ladder raise

Question 76

Observe and communicate to crew members and your supervisor the following conditions specific to ground ladders:

Answer 76

Presence of overhead electrical wires and obstructions Ground conditions: muddy, icy and/or uneven terrain Building structural integrity: condition of the wall and windows where the ladder will be raised Wind direction and speed Appropriateness of the chosen ladder: length, single or extension, correct for the task Structural features such as type of roof, wall height and presence of overhangs

Question 77

Two objectives are to be met when placing ground ladders:

Answer 77

Position the ladder properly for its intended use Place the butt the proper distance from the building for safe and easy climbing

Question 78

A 75-degree angle provides the following benefits:

Answer 78

Good stability Less stress placed on the ladder Optimum climbing angle Easiest climbing position: the climber can stand perpendicular to the ground, at arms length from the rungs

Question 79

Two methods are used for securing a ladder:

Answer 79

heeling tying in

Question 80

heeling following guidelines

Answer 80

Wear full PPE with helmet, face shield deployed when heeling the ladder Be alert for falling objects or debris Stay alert for firefighters descending the ladder

Question 81

Tying in guidelines

Answer 81

Whenever possible, a ladder should be tied securely to a fixed object Prevents the ladder from slipping or pulling away from the building Tying also frees personnel who would otherwise be holding the ladder in place Rope hose tool or safety strap can be used between the ladder and a fixed object

Question 82

The process of securing a ground ladder may include any or all of the following:

Answer 82

Lock the extension ladder locks in place before the ladder is placed against the structure Tie the halyard with a clove hitch and an overhand safety Heel and/or secure the ladder with a rope to a nearby, firm object to prevent ladder movement

Question 83

Climbing Ladders

Answer 83

Ladder climbing should be done smoothly and rhythmically You should ascend the ladder so that there is least possible amount of bounce and sway

Question 84

Securing to the Ladder

Answer 84

-Either a ladder belt or a leg lock can be used to safely secure the firefighter to a ladder while performing work

Question 85

Carrying Tools Up and Down Ladders

Answer 85

Disrupts your natural climbing motion either because of the added weight or the need to use one hand to hold the tool If a tool is carried in one hand, it may be desirable to slide the free hand along the beam rather than on the rungs while making the climb (This method permits constant hand contact with the ladder)

Question 86

Assisting a Victim Down a Ladder

Answer 86

When using a ground ladder for rescue through a window, the ladder tip is raised just below the sill

Question 87

To bring victims down a ground ladder, a least four firefighters are needed:

Answer 87

Two inside the building On or two on the ladder And one to heel the ladder

Question 88

Methods for assisting unconscious victims include:

Answer 88

On-the-knee Cross-body method (Victim facing firefighter) Modified Cross-body method (Victim is facing the ladder)