Max904511 Flashcards
According to the Recommended Practice, principles of firefighting with foam, firefighting foam improves the extinguishing performance of water on many fires. Depending on the foam, list how this may be achieved.
Firefighting foam improves the extinguishing performance of water in several ways, depending on the type of foam being used. The key mechanisms include:
1. Surface Cooling:
• Foam allows water to spread more effectively over surfaces, enhancing its cooling effect and reducing the heat of the fire.
2. Smothering (Oxygen Exclusion):
• Foam creates a barrier between the fuel and the surrounding air, cutting off the oxygen supply needed for combustion.
3. Vapor Suppression:
• Foam prevents the release of flammable vapors from the fuel surface, reducing the risk of re-ignition.
4. Fuel Separation:
• Foam physically isolates the fuel from the fire by covering it with a stable foam blanket, which interrupts the fire triangle (fuel, oxygen, heat).
5. Adhesion to Surfaces:
• Certain foams adhere to vertical or irregular surfaces, providing prolonged protection and cooling of exposed areas.
6. Increased Penetration:
• Some foams, like wetting agents, reduce the surface tension of water, enabling it to penetrate porous or tight surfaces, which is particularly useful for Class A fires (solid combustibles).
7. Heat Resistance:
• A properly formulated foam layer resists breaking down under high temperatures, maintaining its protective qualities longer.
Each type of foam (e.g., Aqueous Film-Forming Foam [AFFF], Class A foam, Protein foam, or Alcohol-Resistant AFFF) is optimized for specific fire scenarios and contributes differently to fire suppression.
According to the Recommended Practice, Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) operation is based on three functions which conform to the internationally accepted algorithm of basic life support using AEDs. List these functions.
- Rhythm Analysis
The AED automatically analyzes the heart rhythm of the patient to determine whether a shockable rhythm (e.g., ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia) is present.- Energy Delivery (Defibrillation)
If a shockable rhythm is detected, the AED prompts the user to deliver a defibrillation shock to help restore a normal heart rhythm. - Guided CPR Assistance
Many AEDs provide real-time audio or visual instructions to guide rescuers through chest compressions and rescue breathing during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
- Energy Delivery (Defibrillation)
According to Operations Bulletin 2012/03, list the properties of Natural gas.
Natural gas is:
• a fossil fuel which contains 95% methane (CH4)
• naturally odourless but has an organic sulphur compound added to make it more readily detectable
• non-toxic but it is an asphyxiant (excludes air)
• highly flammable and has explosive limits of 5 - 15% in air
• lighter than air and disperses rapidly.
According to the SOG- acetylene is a very volatile gas. Exploding cylinders can penetrate double brick walls or metal freight containers and land 200m away. How many hours after the cylinder is removed from the fire or heat source, if it is not cooled, can this explosion occur?
Explosion Timing for Acetylene Cylinders:
An acetylene cylinder, if not adequately cooled after exposure to fire or heat, can explode up to 24 hours after being removed from the heat source.
According to the SOGs - When providing fire protection for helicopter hot refuelling there are many factors for the FRNSW Commander to consider. List these factors.
The FRNSW Commander should consider the:
• number and size of helicopters using the landing site
• expected number of landings and take-offs
• amount and type of fuel stored on site, and
• availability of reticulated water for firefighting.
If required, the FRNSW Commander shouid request the attendance of additional appliances, foam trailers or bulk water supplies.
According to the SOG - When providing fire protection for helicopter hot refuelling, list the information the airbase manager must provide in regard to safety.
During refuelling, firefighters in full PPE will stand by with lines of hose charged, foam eductor attached and B Class foam ready to be inducted.
• Prevent water or foam streams from hitting moving rotors as this may cause catastrophic failure of the rotors and cause serious injury or death for people nearby.
• When life is not at risk, advice should be sought on how to minimise damage to the aircraft before applying foam or water streams.
• When life is at risk, the FRNSW Commander should direct firefighters to apply foam to a fuel fire immediately.
According to the Recommended Practice - List the 5 typical scenarios for Attack and Lay Pack use.
Structure fires that cannot be directly accessed from the footpath
• Fires in high rise buildings
• Investigating automatic fire alarms
• Protecting property from bushfires
• Bush and grass fires in difficult to access locations.
Complete the following in relation to the Fire and Rescue NSW Act 1989 Part 3, Division 1, Section 11 Brigades to proceed with speed to suspected fires or hazardous material incidents-
(1) When there is an alarm of fire…….
(2) When there is a report of hazardous material incident………….
(a) (b)
Fire and Rescue NSW Act 1989 Part 3, Division 1, Section 11
(1) When there is an alarm of fire:
The brigade must proceed with all practicable speed to the scene of the fire.
(2) When there is a report of a hazardous material incident:
(a) The brigade must proceed with all practicable speed to the scene of the incident.
(b) The brigade must take all reasonable measures to protect life, property, and the environment from harm caused by the hazardous material.
Complete the following in relation to the Fire and Rescue NSW Act 1989 Part 3, Division 1, Section 12, Investigation of reported fires and Hazardous material incidents-
(1) The officer in charge may,
(a)
(b)
(2)
(1) The officer in charge may, with or without members of a fire brigade, enter any place-
(a) in respect of which an alarm of fire is raised to ascertain whether there is a fire at the place, or
(b) in respect of which a report of a hazardous material incident has been made to ascertain whether there is any hazardous material at the place that is, or is about to be, the subject of a hazardous material incident.
(2) Reasonable force, whether by breaking down gates or fences or breaking open doors or otherwise, may be used to gain entry.
Section 13, of the Fire and Rescue NSW Act 1989 states the “general powers of officers at fires and hazardous material incidents”- State this provision.
13 General powers of officers at fires and hazardous material incidents
(1) At a fire, the officer in charge
(a) may take such measures as the officer thinks proper for the protection and saving of life and property and for the control and extinguishing of the fire, and
(b) is to control and direct the operations of any fire brigade.
(1A) At the site of a hazardous material incident, the officer in charge—
(a) may take such measures as the officer thinks proper for the protection and saving of life and property, for confining and ending the incident and for rendering the site safe, and
(b) is to control and direct the operations of any fire brigade.
The site is taken to be such area in the vicinity of the incident as is for the time being determined by the officer in charge.
(2) If the fire is a bush fire (including a grass fire), the officer in charge is, as far as practicable, to carry into effect any plan of operations in force under section 52 of the Rural Fires Act 1997 in relation to the place where the fire occurs.
(3) The following provisions of this Division are intended to be particular examples of the way in which functions under this section can be exercised and are not intended to limit the generality of this section.
Division 1 of the Fire and Rescue NSW Act 1989 lists the powers at fires and hazardous material incidents. State the provisions of Section 19- “General power to remove persons or obstacles.”
(1) At a fire, the officer in charge—
(a) may take such measures as the officer thinks proper for the protection and saving of life and property and for the control and extinguishing of the fire, and
(b) is to control and direct the operations of any fire brigade.
(1A) At the site of a hazardous material incident, the officer in charge—
(a) may take such measures as the officer thinks proper for the protection and saving of life and property, for confining and ending the incident and for rendering the site safe, and
(b) is to control and direct the operations of any fire brigade.
At an incident that has been declared a crime scene, a member of the public seeks details from you, the senior firefighter/officer on duty, about the incident. State the provisions of Fire and Rescue NSW Regulation (2023), Clause 22, Disclosure of information.
A firefighter must not disclose information obtained in the firefighter’s capacity as a firefighter unless the disclosure is made
(a) in the exercise of the firefighter’s functions, or (b)
about factual matters that are generally available to the public, or
(c)
by an approved firefighter to media representatives about operations at a fire or other incident, or
(d)
at the direction or with the permission of the Commissioner, or
(e) with another lawful excuse.
Section 17 of the Fire and Rescue NSW Regulation (2023) refers to unacceptable behaviour. List five circumstances when a firefighter’s behaviour would be deemed unacceptable.
Unacceptable Firefighter Behaviour
1. Violence or threats.
2. Discrimination or harassment.
3. Intoxication while on duty.
4. Disobedience of lawful orders.
5. Neglect of duties or unsafe practices.
According to Standing Orders, to avoid serious accidents at intersections when responding to an emergency, what are the two actions drivers of responding vehicles should take when proceeding through traffic signals and stop signs.
Intersection Safety During Emergency Response
1. Slow down and stop if necessary to ensure safety.
2. Proceed only when safe to do so, regardless of signals.
According to Standing Orders, when are seatbelts required to be worn when travelling in FRNSW vehicles (including tankers)?
Seatbelt Use in FRNSW Vehicles
Seatbelts must be worn at all times when the vehicle is in motion.
Section 27 of the Crown Employees (Fire and Rescue NSW Permanent Firefighting
Staff) Award 2023 states the Notice of Transfer that is required to be given by the Commissioner when an employee is to be transferred to a new location and/or a different platoon. List and detail the three provisions for these as stated in this section.
27.1.1
Seven (7) days notice when the transfer is within the same fire district or within the GSA and on the same platoon,
27.1.2
Fourteen (14) days notice when the transfer is within the same fire district or within the GSA but to a different platoon,
27.1.3
Twenty eight (28) days notice when the transfer is outside the GSA or the employee’s current fire district, and such notice shall be confirmed in writing.
State the two provisions under the Fire and Rescue NSW Regulation (2023), Part 3, Section 14: Firefighters to acquire and maintain knowledge of legislation, orders, and functions.
Knowledge of Legislation and Orders
1. Firefighters must acquire and maintain knowledge of FRNSW legislation, SOGs, and functions.
2. Firefighters must comply with all policies and procedures.
According to Recommended Practice- List the general safety points that must be observed at all times when using the Attack and Lay Pack.
Attack and Lay Pack Safety Points
1. Ensure correct hose deployment.
2. Avoid kinking hoses.
3. Maintain control of water pressure.
4. Use PPE and maintain situational awareness.
According to the Fire Investigation toolkit on the Intranet, list when you should request FIRU for assistance?
When to Request FIRU Assistance
1. Suspected arson.
2. Fatalities or injuries at fire scenes.
3. Fires involving significant property loss.
4. Unusual or suspicious circumstances.
Found in the toolkit on the Intranet, provide the full name of the form populated by firefighters that gives the Fire Investigator a summary of your observations on arrival and your actions during the fire.
SOFA
Summary of observations & firefighter actions
According to Definitions on the Intranet - Describe Backdraught.
During the smouldering phase of a fire, in a confined space, fire gases may be at or above their ignition temperature, but will not have burned because of oxygen deficiency. Suddenly admitting air, by opening doors or breaking windows, may cause these gases to burn rapidly. The sudden release of energy as the gases are ignited causes an immediate and violent pressure rise. If there are insufficient openings to vent the pressure, an explosion will occur. This type of explosion is called a backdraught.
According to SOGs, - list your role and tasks if you are the first arriving Station Officer into Staging.
The first arriving officer in Staging becomes the Staging Officer, with his or her crew assisting. From that point, the IC only needs to speak with one person (the Staging Officer) to deploy resources into the incident. Staging is similar to other Sectors or Groups, but does not operate within the hazard zone.
According to SOGs, - describe the order model of communication and when it must be used.
Order Model of Communication
• The order model involves:
1. Sender gives a clear and concise order.
2. Receiver acknowledges the order and repeats it back.
3. Sender confirms the repeated order.
• This model must be used during critical operations to ensure clarity and avoid miscommunication.
According to the GSD for Incident Management, – an Incident Management System is a standardised method used to manage all types of incidents. The method is adaptable and scalable to the incident type and size. List what it enables the Incident Controller to do and when an Incident Management System is required to be used at incidents FRNSW attends?
Incident Management System
• Enables the Incident Controller to:
1. Plan and control the incident effectively.
2. Allocate resources appropriately.
3. Ensure safety of personnel and public.
4. Maintain clear communication and coordination.
When required:
• The system must be used at all incidents attended by FRNSW, regardless of size or type.
According to SOGs, -there are eight strategic functions of command the Incident Commander needs to address. List and describe all eight functions
Deployment
• Provide a steady, adequate and timely stream of appropriate resources.
• Ensure situational awareness of the location and function of each resource.
Command
• Quickly establish incident command from the most
effective position - from arrival of first resource.
Situation evaluation
• Collect and evaluate information, to determine critical factors.
Incident action planning
• Develop an incident action plan that addresses the critical factors and sets objectives.
Incident communications
• Initiate and maintain effective incident communications.
Incident structure
• Build an incident structure - flexible and scalable to incident needs - where functions can be delegated to maintain span of control.
Review and revision
• Once operating, review and revise the plan, to ensure it matches the incident needs
Escalation and de-escalation
• Scale up if needed with additional officers. Scale down once the incident is contained, and conclude operations.
According to the GSD for Incident Management, - at every incident there must be a steady, adequate, and timely stream of resources. Who is the only person to deploy resources at an incident?
Resource Deployment
Only the Incident Controller is authorized to deploy resources at an incident.
A driver in a road tunnel noticed smoke coming from the engine compartment of their car and immediately pulled into the emergency break down bay and called Triple zero. According to SOGs, list the Smoke Management Systems found in road tunnels that could assist in clearing the smoke?
Road tunnel smoke management systems may use:
• longitudinal ventilation (jet fans)
• ducted ventilation
• natural ventilation
• a combination of the above.
According to the GSD for Incident Management, - as an incident develops and crews become fatigued, they will need to be rested. List and describe the two ways crews can be rested.
Crew Resting Methods
1. Rotation: Assign crews to non-critical tasks for recovery.
2. Rehabilitation: Move crews to a dedicated rest and recovery area with hydration, food, and medical support.
According to the GSD for Incident Management, - List and describe the three incident phases.
Life at risk phase - there are savable human lives. Incident is uncontrolled and requires rapid actions to control risks to lives. A higher level of risk may be acceptable.
Expanding phase - incident is likely to expand beyond accepted limits. Incident is uncontrolled and requires rapid actions to control
risks to lives and property. Some level of risk may be acceptable.
Contained phase - there are sufficient resources to contain
incident within a defined area. There is no life at risk, or lives and
property are already lost. Risk must be minimised as much as
practicable.
According to the Standing Orders list the people authorised to ride on FRNSW appliances?
Authorized Riders on FRNSW Appliances
1. FRNSW personnel.
2. Approved visitors or observers (e.g., trainees).
3. Other emergency service personnel as required.
According to the Recommended Practice for the Multi-head gas detector – Altair 5X, Altair 5X IR and Altair 5X PID, describe the term Time Weighted Average (TWA).
Time Weighted Average (TWA)
The average concentration of a substance in the air over a standard 8-hour, 5day working week, used to assess exposure limits.
Section 26 of the Fire and Rescue NSW Regulation 2023 deals with performance of functions. State the provisions of this section
Performance of Functions (Section 26)
• Firefighters must perform their duties efficiently and diligently.
• Firefighters must adhere to FRNSW policies, procedures, and lawful instructions.
According to the GSD for Incident Safety, – it is usually reasonable only to document high consequence risks, however as time and resources increase into a protracted incident what is reasonable to document will change. List and describe the two ways that risks can be documented.
Risk Documentation Methods
1. Dynamic Risk Assessment: Ongoing mental evaluation of risks during the incident.
2. Formal Documentation: Written risk assessments when time and resources allow, especially during protracted incidents.
According to the definition on the Intranet – what is the full term used when a liquid within a container reaches a temperature well above its boiling temperature, boils, expands and the container fails.
Full Term for Exploding Liquid Containers
Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapour Explosion (BLEVE).
According to SOGs – a thermal check of the acetylene cylinder may give an indication that decomposition is occurring internally. List and describe two ways you can conduct a thermal check.
Thermal Check of Acetylene Cylinders
1. thermal image camera : Measure surface temperature to detect hotspots.
2. Water Spray Test: Apply water mist and observe if it evaporates quickly, indicating heat.
According to SOGs-expand the acronym – SISIACMR
SISIACMR
S afe approach
I ncident command
S cene security
I dentify HAZMAT
A ssess potential harm
C all in resources
M onitor information
R ender safe & decontaminate
According to the GSD for Incident Safety, - Define what incident safety refers to.
Incident safety refers to the management of the health and safety of firefighters at incidents, and, where relevant, at operational training that uses incident safety processes.
According to Operations Bulletin 2023-01 – thermal runaway can occur in lithium-ion batteries in small devices at any time without warning. List the indicators of thermal runaway.
Indicators of Lithium-Ion Battery Thermal Runaway
1. Rapid increase in temperature.
2. Swelling or deformation of the battery.
3. Smoke emission.
4. Popping or hissing sounds.
5. Flame or fire.
According to the Workplace Safety toolkit on the intranet, what should you complete when a work-related injury, near miss, exposure or illness occurs and in what timeframe after the occurrence should it be submitted?
Within 24hrs of occurrence
Niiems form
According to the Workplace Safety toolkit on the intranet, - if you are unable to submit or fill out a NIIENM who else can submit one for you?
If the injured person is unable to submit the report, their Supervisor or co-worker can submit it on their behalf.
When shall an employee be entitled to accommodation whist attending training courses in the GSA as listed under section 48.2.2 of the Crown Employees (Fire and Rescue NSW Permanent Firefighting Staff) Award 2023.
Where an employee attends a course within the Greater Sydney Area (GSA), and if the travelling time to and from the training venue exceeds two (2) hours each way (by the approved mode of transport) or if the return distance from the employee’s residence to the training venue exceeds 175 kilometres, the employee shall be entitled to appropriate accommodation.
As stated in the State Emergency and Rescue Management Act,1989 - list who is responsible for coordinating rescue operations and for determining the priorities of action to be taken in rescue operations?
NSW Police RESCO
According to the GSD for Incident Management, list the fundamental principles of the incident management system.
4 Policy principles
• Every incident FRNSW attends must be managed using the incident management system.
• All FRNSW staff at the incident must operate within the incident management system.
• There must be an IC at every incident. The most senior person in the first arriving crew must formally take on the role of IC and advise FireCOM.
• There should be sufficient resources responded to the incident, and supporting the incident, to enable effective incident management.
• Incidents should be managed by a commander with experience and skills to match the incident needs. Any commander (of any experience and skills) may initially take the role of IC. However, a later arriving commander who has more experience or skills in relation to the incident may take on the role of IC.
• Handovers should be minimised as far as possible.
• Incident management ends when the last FRNSW resource leaves the scene.
• If deviating from the incident management system, for any reason, FRNSW personnel must be able to justify their actions.
• The incident management system roles override ranks.
According to the Rescue Training Manual - Fire protection must be established at all MVA’s where the vehicle’s occupants are trapped. List the actions that should be taken when providing fire protection at an MVA.
• The pumper should be positioned in a safe area at least 15-30 metres from the incident, unless circumstances dictate otherwise
• The minimum fire protection required is a 38 mm hose line, charged to 400 kPa with an Akron spray branch with a minimum 90° angle of spray, the pump recirculating valve must be opened to prevent the pump from overheating
• The branch must be hand-held by a firefighter in full turnout gear and BA
• The firefighter holding the branch must be positioned close to the risk, ready to provide immediate protection should a fire ignite and be prepared to:
- Secure an escape path for the rescue crew; and
- Isolate the fire from the passenger cell of the vehicle.
If the hose line is used, the pump operator should close the recirculating valve and increase the pump pressure to 800 kPa
According to the Recommended Practice for breathing apparatus, – conditions when SCBA should be worn can be summarised by the acronym HOTS. List and describe each letter of HOTS.
Acronym HOTS for SCBA Conditions
1. H – Heat: High temperatures that could endanger breathing or skin.
2. O – Oxygen: Oxygen levels below 19.5% or above safe limits.
3. T – Toxicity: Presence of hazardous or toxic gases.
4. S – Smoke: Visibility reduction and particulate hazards from smoke.
Owners and occupiers of premises can deposit keys at their nearest fire station so that firefighters can gain access without causing unnecessary damage. Located in the Forms tab on the intranet, name the two forms that need to be completed when receiving keys to private premises.
Forms for Receiving Keys to Private Premises
1. FRNSW Key Deposit Form.
2. FRNSW Premises Key Receipt Form.
As stated in the Health, Fitness and Wellbeing Toolkit- what is it a mandatory requirement to complete prior to undertaking the annual Fitness Drill?
Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire
PARQ
According to Operations Bulletin 2020-04 – Reporting appliance damage and maintenance issues, when an appliance is found to have unreported damage, the Fleet Operations Officer or Regional Maintenance Officer will notify the Station, Duty, and Zone Commander in writing. Which form must the station submit within 8 days?
Agency Member Motor Vehicle Claim Form
According to the Fire ePermit Policy, a fire permit issued within the ‘Bush Fire Danger’ period will be valid for a period of how many days from the date of issue?
Fire Permit Validity
A fire permit issued within the Bush Fire Danger Period is valid for 7 days from the date of issue.
According to the Fire ePermit Policy, what aspect of the planned fire does the permit take into account.
.
It imposes conditions on the way a fire is lit and maintained. This safety aspect is the limit of the involvement by FRNSW.
A fire permit can be issued for a fire lit for the purpose of:
• Agricultural purposes such as burning crop stubble or diseased crops, burning sugar cane or clearing land
• Bushfire hazard reduction such as burning a fire break, ecological burn, forestry burn, pile burning, removing a fire hazard/removal of bushfire fuels
• Commercial or domestic waste removal such as destruction of sawmill waste, removal of household refuse (dependant on the Local Government Area the fire is lit within - refer to Section 5- Policy Implementation) or destroying an animal carcass
• Recreational or ceremonial fires such as bonfire, campfire, hangi or numbuk yabun (aboriginal ceremonial fire).
.
According to SOGs- list the 6 components of a AS2419.1 hydrant booster.
Six Components of an AS2419.1 Hydrant Booster
1. boost inlets .
2. main wheel valve.
3. non return valve.
4. Pressure gauges: Display water pressure in the system.
5. feed hydrant .
6. towns main
According to the Recommend Practice for breathing apparatus– what is the meaning of working duration.
Working duration is the total duration less the safety margin of 55 bar. You
should leave the Hot Zone before the whistle sounds and you start using the safety margin.
A mobile data terminal (MDT) is installed in every fire appliance. It provides immediate fingertip access to incident information and a range of additional intelligence to help firefighters deal with the incidents they attend every day. List the information the MDT enables firefighters to indicate, view and access as documented in the Toolkit.
Information Available on the Mobile Data Terminal (MDT)
The MDT allows firefighters to:
1. Indicate: Their status (e.g., responding, on-scene).
2. View: Incident details (e.g., address, nature of the call).
3. Access:
• Pre-incident plans.
• Building layouts and hydrant locations.
• Hazmat information.
• Rescue guides and response protocols.
According to SOGs, - firefighters can ‘turn off’ a solar power system to stop electricity feeding into the structure’s circuits or back to the electricity network if configured to do so. List and describe the 6 points to consider.
Only an electrician can completely isolate an alternative power source as it involves disconnecting wiring from the alternative power source.
Firefighters can turn off an alternative power source to stop electricity feeding into the structure’s circuits, or back to the electricity network if configured to do SO.
To turn off an alternative power source:
- Consult with any on-site experts to determine how best to turn it off and whether it is appropriate.
- Assume the switchboard and any conductive materials are live. Don insulating gloves, then leather overgloves. Put your helmet visor down.
- Follow any shutdown procedure displayed. This may be on or near the switchboard or adjacent to the alternative power source.
- If the shutdown procedure cannot be found:
• Solar panels - turn off the inverter main switch (usually in the meter box), then turn off the solar panel main switch (usually next to the inverter).
• UPS - turn off both the input to and the output from the UPS system.
For a large UPS the switches may be located in the UPS room.
• Generator - turn off the generator at the switchboard.
Wiring remains live between the inverter, and the solar panels and any battery. FRNSW voltage detectors do not detect DC electricity - Restrict work as far as reasonably practical to that required to protect life or prevent dangerous expansion of the incident. Carefully consider whether the possible benefits of undertaking the work outweigh the risks.
- If power must be isolated from the alternative power supply, have the owner/occupier contact their electrician.
According to Operations Bulletin 2024-02, when a battery energy storage system is present at a residence, there should be an indicator to alert you to this. What is an example of an indicator.
Indicator of a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)
An example of an indicator is a sign or label stating “Battery Storage System Installed” located:
• Near the main electrical switchboard.
• At the property entrance.
Operations Bulletin 2023-01- lists operational actions to follow when dealing with Lithium-ion battery failure in small devices. List these actions.
Knock-down any fire using copious amounts of water.
• Cool the battery with a cooling stream of water.
• Submerge the device in a suitable container of water if safe to do so. Use a tool such as a long-handled shovel to move the device.
• If unable to submerge the device, continue cooling and conduct thermal checks every 15 minutes until ambient temperature is maintained for 60 minutes. Note: an increasing temperature is an indication that a thermal runaway event is occurring.
• Ensure that all cells are accounted for by searching the area around the device. Failure to account for all cells may lead to a secondary fire event.
Notify FireCOM that the incident involves a lithium-ion device. FireCOM will send a notification to FIRU.
According to the GSD for Electricity SOGs - fires can occur in solar panels, particularly in the isolators attached to the solar panels. If the solar panel is on a roof, list the actions firefighters should not take.
If solar panels, or the attached isolators, are on fire, in addition to the considerations with turning off an alternative power source:
• Conduct firefighting from the ground or an aerial appliance. Do not get onto the roof to extinguish the fire. Do not put a ladder against the roof as the gutter may be electrified.
• Extinguish the fire with a spray nozzle, using a pulse spray in a dispersed pattern.
According to the SMIT on salvage and overhaul, describe the purpose of salvage.
Purpose of Salvage
The purpose of salvage is to:
• Protect property from further damage caused by fire, water, or smoke.
• Minimize losses by using covers, draining water, or relocating valuables.
According to the SMIT on salvage and overhaul, describe the purpose of post fire overhaul.
Search & extinguish hidden fires & hot spots.
• Protect the scene after the fire, including the preservation of evidence & identification of cause & origin.
• Restore the premises to a safe condition.
According to SOGs, list the four principles to consider when responded to incident involving a gaseous fire suppression system.
FRNSW may be responded to these incidents as an Automatic Fire Alarm, or to a reported fire.
• Unless there is life at risk, firefighters must wait outside the compartment for the hold time, while the system fully discharges and extinguishes the fire.
• Breathing apparatus must be worn when inside the compartment until the atmosphere is confirmed safe.
• Any activation of the system must be investigated.
According to the GSD for Bushfires - FRNSW crews generally engage in property protection roles. We generally have three strategies for carrying out property protection. List and describe the three types of defences that may be required in the defensive strategy.
- Line defence - A line defence is used when conditions would normally allow an offensive attack (eg the fire is not intense, weather conditions are favourable etc.),
- Ember defence - An ember defence is used when the approaching line of fire is too intense to be suppressed by offensive means and is producing significant ember attack.
It involves extinguishing small fires that occur in and around buildings, when and as they occur. - A backstop defence is used when there is no safe defensible space around buildings and/or the approaching fire is so intense that firefighters canciot safely protect the buildings during the impact of the fire. Firefighters withdraw temporarily a short distance away to suitable safe refuges, with the intention of coming back after the fire passes.
- Ember defence - An ember defence is used when the approaching line of fire is too intense to be suppressed by offensive means and is producing significant ember attack.
Operations Bulletin 2023-01- lists the hazards and risks at incidents involving Lithium-ion batteries in small devices. List all as stated in the bulletin.
Hazards and risks involving lithium-ion batteries (Operations Bulletin 2023-01):
1. thermal runway
2. extreme fire behaviour
3. Toxic gas release (e.g., hydrogen fluoride).
4. Hazardous materials and leaked electrolytes
5. stranded energy
6. projectiles
7. Secondary ignition
According to the GSD for Incident Management - Australasian Inter-service Incident Management System (AIIMS) has 5 key principles. List and describe the concepts that underpin these principles.
AIIMS principles (GSD for Incident Management):
1. Flexibility: Adaptable structure for various incidents.
2. Management by Objectives: Clear goals for coordination.
3. Functional Management: Assign roles (e.g., Operations, Logistics).
4. Unity of Command: One person, one supervisor.
5. Span of Control: Optimal supervision ratio (3–7 personnel per supervisor).
According to SOGs - when an LPG container is involved in fire, what area of the container is considered most crucial and a high priority area for cooling?
LPG container high-priority cooling area (SOGs):
The upper vapor space is the most critical area for cooling to prevent pressure buildup and BLEVE (Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion).
According to the SMIT on Psychological Preparedness – list the actions that should be taken following a Potentially Traumatic Event.
.Acknowledge as a team that the incident you just attended has the potentially to be traumatic.
• Acknowledge that there is no right or wrong way to respond after attending a potentially traumatic event.
Should you or a crew member need to talk; ensure lines of communication are open, talk to colleagues, family, friends or internal supports, ensuing you maintain your boundaries if you are not ready or comfortable.
Familiarise yourself with available support services should you or someone in your team need them.
According to the Work Instruction on “bagging contaminated gear” - list the equipment required for bagging contaminated gear (not PPC) at an incident to minimise the risk presented by hazardous contaminants during storage or transport.
Equipment for bagging contaminated gear (Work Instruction):
1. Heavy-duty plastic bags.
2. Cable ties or duct tape.
3. markers for labeling.
4. Disposable gloves.
5. contaminated labels
6. P2
According to the GSD for Bushfires - List and describe the 3 classes of bushfires.
Class 1
A fire under the control of the responsible fire authority, whether or not incidental/low level assistance is provided by other agencies.
Class 2
A fire which, by necessity, involves more than one agency, and where the Bush Fire Management Committee (BFMC) has appointed a person to take charge of firefighting operations. The IC will be advised by FireCOM that the BFMC Executive Officer has declared the fire as Class 2.
Class 3
A major bushfire or fires where an appointment is made or is imminent under the provisions of Section 44 of the Rural Fires Act 1997.
According to the GSD for Electricity- SOGs, - electrical transformers in high density areas of cities maybe situated in underground vaults, if a fire occurs in one of these vaults, CO2 can be injected via a wall mounted or footpath CO2 connection box. Describe what the number on the connection box indicates.
Indicates the number of CO2 cylinders required to be injected
According to the GSD for Electricity- GSD, list the factors that affect voltage gradient at wires down.
Factors affecting voltage gradient at wires down (GSD for Electricity):
1. composition of ground
2. moisture content
3. Voltage of the electric source
4. Proximity to wires.
According to the GSD for Electricity- SOGs, conductors allow electricity to easily pass through them. List five examples of conductors identified in this document.
Examples of conductors (GSD for Electricity):
1. Water.
2. Metal objects
3. Trees, timber
4. Humans body
5. Vehicle tyres
6.wet or dry rope
7. Water including hose lines
8. Flame and dense smoke
According to the GSD for Electricity- SOGs - list five measures to control the risks associated with electricity at an incident.
• Stay away from the hazard. Always regard it as live until you know otherwise.
• Assess the risks from at least 8 metres away from the hazard.
• If suspected to be electrically hazardous, establish an Exclusion Zone.
• Have the electricity company isolate power.
• When leaving the incident site, if possible, provide information to the owner or other responsible person on the hazards still present at the site and the control measures in place.
As listed on the SIMS Worksheet, Electrical safety kit - list the inventory stored in the green canvas bag of the electrical safety kit.
- Insulated gloves.
- leather gloves
- Voltage detector glm mini rescue
4.electrical safety kit bag
According to the Recommended practice - When using the gloves from the electrical safety kit, what is the correct donning sequence?
Open the electrical kit
Inspect rubber gloves do a test
Place leather gloves over the top
According to SOG for interagency notification, list the four reasons NSW Police are required to be notified of incidents.
Possible terrorist incident
Crime investigation
Site, crowd, traffic and evacuation management
Rescue incidents
You are responded to fire in a correctional facility, centre or complex operated by a government agency or private contractor. As documented in SOGs, list the actions that should be taken on arrival.
• Identify and liaise with the Emergency Coordinator.
• While waiting to enter, start developing the IAP by accessing information - eg pre-incident plans, SOGs, and utilities.
• Where entry to the facility is delayed, nominate a staging area and advise FireCOM to inform responding resources. Remain in the staging area until met by the Emergency Coordinator. Notify FireCOM if entry is delayed.
Always remain outside facility on standby if it is unsafe to enter
• At the main entry, access the Red Fire Emergency Plan Box containing the FRNSW pre-incident plan, safety data sheets folder, site plans, and Local Emergency Plans (LEPs) and brief crew about the facility.
• Prepare the appliance and secure equipment before entering the facility.
List all equipment to be taken in.
According to the Preventing and Managing Unreasonable Behaviour and Bullying Policy, state the definition of workplace bullying?
Definition of workplace bullying (Policy):
Workplace bullying is repeated, unreasonable behavior directed at an individual or group that creates a risk to health and safety.
You respond to an automatic fire alarm at an office building. On arrival you find the gaseous fire suppression system has activated in a data storage unit. You ask employees on site if everyone has evacuated but they cannot be sure. You have to enter immediately to complete a search. According to SOGs list the actions you would you take.
If there is a need to immediately enter the compartment (ie life at risk):
• Wear breathing apparatus and carry a charged line of hose or extinguisher.
• Manage door control and entry to prevent influx of fresh air.
• Consider carrying an extension face mask for the person needing rescue.
• Be aware of electrical hazards from energised equipment.
• Remove the person to a safe atmosphere. Treat them with oxygen. Notify Ambulance.
According to the ‘Firefighter’ role description found on the Intranet, list any 5 of the Duties/Accountabilities required in this role.
Five Firefighter duties (Intranet Role Description):
1. Respond to emergencies.
2. rescue and hazmat response
3. medical response
4. Deliver community education.
5. Maintain equipment and station readiness.
Standing Orders includes the topic ‘Reporting Absence from duty’. List the procedures the Station Officer is to follow if a firefighter is absent without notification.
If a member of your staff is absent, and they have not notified you of their absence, try to contact them by telephone to find out why they are absent.
If you cannot contact them, record them as being absent without leave and notify your Duty Commander or Manager. If you have concerns for their welfare, contact your Zone Commander, Human Resources Manager or the Manager Operational Personnel.
When a staff member returns to duty after being absent without leave, contact them personally and check whether there are any underlying problems with which the NSWFB could assist, eg through the Employee Assistance Program, Chaplains, etc, noting that you must not request any specific information related to the nature of a firefighter’s illness or medical history.
Request a written explanation of their absence and discuss their options in relation to taking leave to cover their absence. If they cannot show reasonable cause for their absence, they must take leave without pay. Also remind them that sick leave or personal/carer’s leave must be supported by the required documentation.
Ensure that SAM is adjusted accordingly and your Duty Commander or Manager is notified of the outcome. Forward the documentation through your chain of command to the Manager Operational Personnel.
According to SOGs – list the procedures you should follow when attending an incident involving underground electrical vault.
At an underground vault incident:
• Contact FireCOM to notify the electricity company and to respond the COz Tender. Consider notifying other affected services.
• Do not enter the vault - wait for the electricity company representative to arrive.
• Do not approach or park vehicles over entry covers (open or closed) due to the risk of explosion.
• Establish a Hot Zone of at least 8 metres radius surrounding the vault.
• Prepare the necessary equipment. Consider requesting hazmat or other specialists. Consult any pre-incident plans.
• Protect all exposures.
Treat all underground vaults, tunnels, pits and vaults as confined spaces.
• Liaise with the electricity company representative on safety and technical issues. Follow all safe work instructions given by the electricity company representative.
• Do not operate any switches without consultation with the electricity company representative.
• Use gas detectors and thermal imaging cameras as appropriate.
According to the Fire Investigation Field Guide there are four classifications of cause. List and describe them.
Four Classifications of Cause (Fire Investigation Field Guide):
1. Accidental: Resulting from unintended human actions or equipment failure.
2. Natural: Caused by natural phenomena (e.g., lightning strikes).
3. Incendiary: Intentionally set fires with intent to cause harm.
4. Undetermined: Cause cannot be conclusively identified due to lack of evidence.
According to SMIT on MVA terminology – list and describe the 4 recognised types of entrapment.
- Trapped by Compression: the occupant is physically pinned by deformity in the structure of the vehicle.
- Trapped by Confinement: the occupant is only trapped in the interior of the vehicle (i.e. a door is jammed).
- Trapped by Injuries: the occupant is unable to exit the vehicle due the injuries sustained (or are believed to have sustained - spinal injuries etc).
- Trapped by Impalement: the occupant is physically impaled by a foreign object which prevents them from exiting the vehicle.
According to SOGs - there are many duties of the BA Control Operator. List five.
BACOs:
• Establish BA Control as close to the entry/exit point as possible.
• Check and enter all details on the BA Control Board.
• Ensure that BA team members are identified by a call sign determined by the incident communications plan.
• Calculate and monitor entry and exit times.
• Monitor all radio communications within the sector.
• When exit time is reached:
- Immediately contact the individual wearer or BA team leader.
- If unable to contact, notify their Commander.
- Activate the RIT immediately when required and notify the IC.
• Indicate to exiting BA crews the locations of the BA staging area and
Rehabilitation Area.
• Provide updates to their Commander as required. A second radio transceiver may be required for communicating on the tactical channel.
• Ensure BA Control Boards clearly show when extended duration BA (EDBA) is in use. This is indicated by the red tag from the EDBA twin manifold being attached to the wearer’s yellow tally on the board.
• Ensure BA Control Boards clearly show when aerial appliance operators are wearing BA.
• Ensure BA Control Boards clearly show when extension facemasks are in use:
- With air trolley BA (ATBA).
- On aerial appliances.
- With auxiliary facemask from another BA set.
- With an extension airline from a standalone BA set.
Safety Bulletin 2024-01 identifies actions firefighters must take operationally should they identify fire doors with fire activated bolts. List what firefighters must do.
Inform the IC immediately if fire door bolts are identified.
• Ensure fire attack and search and rescue crews enter with charged lines of hose.
• Identify alternative egress routes should a fire door bolt operate. If trapped by the activation of a fire bolt fire door with no alternative exit, send a Mayday message.
According to SOGs – List what P2 particle masks can be used to protect against.
Uses of P2 Particle Masks (SOGs):
P2 particle masks protect against:
1. Fine particulate matter.
2. Smoke particles.
3. Airborne asbestos fibers.
4. Biological matter
5. Dust
Section 29 of the Fire and Rescue NSW Regulation 2023 deals with the occurrence book. State the provisions of this clause.
The officer in charge of a fire station must ensure details of the following are recorded in a document (an occurrence book) kept at the fire station—
(a) all events of significance relating to the operation of the fire station,
(b) all other matters required by this regulation or the Commissioner’s directions to be recorded in the occurrence book.
Safety Bulletin 2010-04 identifies precautions appliance drivers should take before responding from fire stations. List these precautions.
- Activate the emergency warning lights to indicate that the appliance is about to respond.
- Check that everyone has their seat belt fastened.
- Check your mirrors and ensure that the surrounding area is clear of people.
- Only proceed when safe to do
Clause 10 of the Fire and Rescue NSW Regulation (2023) deals with Examinations and Assessments. State this provision.
Examinations and Assessments Provision (Regulation 2023, Clause 10):
Firefighters must successfully complete prescribed examinations and assessments to ensure competency and readiness for operational duties.
List the exemptions that retained firefighters have when responding in private vehicles to emergency incidents as detailed in the Standing Orders.
No exemption from road rules
According to the SOGs for communication plans- list the three basic principles for communication at incidents?
A: to use the principles of ICS and ensure an effective span of control;
B:to establish a flow of information at all levels of the incident , without overwhelming the IC or ComCen with superfluous data; and
C: to ensure the safety of firefighters by using effective communication.
The Fire and Rescue Act 1989 and the Australian Road Rules grant exemptions, in certain circumstances, to the drivers of Fire and Rescue NSW vehicles from complying with the Australian Road Rules. State the situations as listed in Standing Orders when FRNSW vehicles are permitted to travel in a bus, tram, transit or truck lane.
When FRNSW Vehicles Can Use Special Lanes (Standing Orders):
1. While responding to emergencies.
2. When attending incidents where access via these lanes is necessary.
3. During training or authorized operations.
According to SOGs - Emergency Response Teams have varying levels of skills, equipment, and training. Depending on the hazards involved, the IC must determine, from Pre-Incident Planning and discussion with the Emergency Response Team Leader, their role at an incident. List the three activities Emergency Response Teams can participate in.
Specialist advice to the IC relating to hazards, industrial processes and installed fire systems.
• Operation of valves and other industrial processes.
• Fire attack under the control of NSWFB officers.
According SOGs list the principles of de-escalation.
• Both the strategic and tactical levels scale back during de-escalation.
Delegated functions are handed back to the IC. The IC may handover command to another officer.
• Only the IC can release resources - resources must not leave without permission from the IC.
• When possible, released resources should be rehabilitated before departure.
• Before a crew leaves the hazard zone, crew commanders should, where possible, conduct a short ‘hot’ debrief.
• If appropriate, when all FRNSW duties are compete, the IC should hand over the site to another agency or the owner.
• When FRNSW involvement at the incident ends, the IC must inform FireCOM.
• Command is only terminated when the last resource leaves the incident.
According to SOGs - the Emergency Control Organisation may consist of people identified by coloured helmets, hats, caps, vests, or tabards. List the members and their identifying colour.
Emergency Control Organisation Roles and Colours (SOGs):
1. Chief Warden: White helmet/tabard.
2. Deputy Chief Warden: White with red stripe.
3. Floor/Area Warden: Yellow.
4. First Aid Officer: Green.
According to the SOGs, List the correct meanings for the numerical status codes 1,2,3,4,5,6 and 7.
Numerical Status Codes (SOGs):
1. Status 1: Responding.
2. Status 2: called off
3. Status 3: on scene
4. Status 4: return to station.
5. Status 5: back at station.
6. Status 6: rfs area.
7. Status 7: offline
You are completing a pre-incident plan for an occupancy located within your station area. The SO directs you to inspect the Fire Control Room. According to the SOGs, list the features that are included in a Fire Control Room.
A Fire Control Room is usually at or below ground level.
Features include:
• a fire isolated room with a 2-hour fire rating and separate ventilation
• two exit points, to the front of the building and directly into a fire exit
• Fire Indicator Panel
• Fire Fan Control Panel
• Master Emergency Control Panel
• controls for fire pumps
• Security Alarm and Control Panels
• telephone (direct line outside)
• whiteboard, corkboard and plan table
• Tactical Fire Plans (maps and schematics).
You are attending an incident at a large cold storage facility. Your SO has directed you to cut into an Insulated Sandwich Panel (ISP). Prior to cutting the ISP, you conduct a risk assessment. According to the SOGs, list the important issues to consider.
Issues to Consider Before Cutting ISPs (SOGs):
1. Fire spread within the panels.
2. Toxic fumes from insulation material.
3. Structural integrity.
4. Hidden electrical wiring.
5. Tools and methods to minimize risks.
You are attending a 3rd Alarm structure fire and note the current incident commander is being overwhelmed by radio messages. According to SOGs, following span of control rules, what is the optimal number of people who should be reporting to the IC?
Span of Control for IC (SOGs):
The optimal number of people reporting to the IC is 5-7.
It is the responsibility of the Incident Commander (IC) to ensure that in general, each tactical priority has been addressed, according to the SOGs, for structure fires the IC should consider how many sides of the fire?
Sides of a Structure Fire (SOGs):
The IC should consider all 6 sides (front, back, left, right, top, bottom).
On arrival at an incident, you observe the EWIS is operating. Upon closer inspection you note it has defects. According to the SOGs, what actions should you take and who should you notify after you have investigated and found no sign of fire?
Fire safety division
You attend a hazmat incident, and you appreciate the importance of correct spelling of a substance when transmitting messages to Comms. You are requested to relay the message using the phonetic alphabet. What is the correct phonetic alphabet transmission for …………….? (Word to be inserted in test paper, knowledge of phonetic alphabet)
Correct Phonetic Alphabet Transmission:
The phonetic alphabet is used to ensure clarity. For example, if the word is “FIRE”, the correct phonetic transmission would be:
Foxtrot India Romeo Echo.
For other words, apply the corresponding NATO phonetic alphabet.
An MVA has occurred between a truck and two cars requiring the attendance of a rescue unit, the MVA has occurred on the M5 Motorway in the GSA. There are multiple emergency services within NSW that are responsible for rescue incidents. According to SOGs, who determines which emergency service will send a rescue unit to this rescue incident?
The Police
Resco
Fumigation is a process of applying a pesticide chemical to a sealed area for a period, generally to treat insects or other vermin. The pesticide is applied in gas form (or a state that produces a gas) to the area. According to SOGs if a firefighter is exposed to chemicals at a fumigation list the actions needed to be taken on arrival back at station.
- Notify the Station Officer immediately.
- Conduct decontamination, including washing exposed skin.
- Remove and isolate contaminated PPE.
- Complete an incident report Niiems
- Seek medical assessment if required.
According to SOGs, FRNSW priorities guide the strategy and incident action plan (IAP) for the incident. List our priorities at an incident?
Rescue - save and protect people’s lives (including firefighters);
Exposures - confine the fire to the building/compartment of origin;
Containment - stop the spread of fire;
Extinguish the fire - deploy sufficient resources to overwhelm the fire;
• overhaul - ensure that all pockets of fire are totally extinguished; and
Salvage - commence damage control operations.
According to the FRNSW fatigue management procedure permanent firefighters, what is the definition of fatigue?
Definition of Fatigue (FRNSW Fatigue Management Procedure):
Fatigue is a state of physical and/or mental exhaustion that reduces a person’s ability to perform work safely and effectively.
According to the GSD for Incident Management- every person at the incident must behave in a manner that ensures that they can be accounted for. List the behaviours of officers not in command that destroy accountability.
Behaviours That Destroy Accountability (GSD for Incident Management):
1. Failing to report to the IC or sector commander.
2. Ignoring designated roles or tasks.
3. Freelancing or acting without authorization.
4. Leaving the incident area without permission.
5. Providing false or incomplete information.