**Chapter** **07**

**Safety**

**Policy**

Firefighter and public safety is our first priority. All Fire Management
Plans and activities must reflect this commitment. The commitment to and
accountability for safety is a joint responsibility of all firefighters,
managers, and administrators. Individuals must be responsible for their
own performance and accountability.

Every supervisor, employee, and volunteer is responsible for following
safe work practices and procedures, as well as identifying and reporting
unsafe conditions.

All firefighters, fireline supervisors, fire managers, and agency
administrators have the responsibility to ensure compliance with
established safe firefighting practices.

*Agency Specific Safety Policy Guides:*

-   ***BLM -** BLM Handbook 1112-1, 1112-2*

-   ***FWS -** Service Manual 241 FW7, Firefighting*

-   ***NPS -** DO-50 and RM-50 Loss Control Management Guideline*

-   ***FS -** FSH-6709.11 Health and Safety Code Handbook*

**Goal**

The goal of the fire safety program is to provide direction and guidance
for safe and effective management in all activities. Safety is the
responsibility of everyone assigned to wildland fire, and must be
practiced at all operational levels from the national fire director,
state/regional director, and unit manger - to employees in the field.
Agency administrators need to stress that firefighter and public safety
always takes precedence over property and resource loss. Coordination
between the fire management staff and unit safety officer(s) is
essential in achieving this objective. For additional safety guidance
and reference refer to:

-   *Fireline Handbook (PMS 410-1, NFES 0065).*

-   *Incident Response Pocket Guide (PMS 461, NFES 1077).*

-   *Wildland Firefighter Health & Safety Report (Annual* *MTDC
    Publication).*

-   *National Interagency Mobilization Guide (NFES 2092).*

**Risk Management Process**

The Risk Management Process identified in the *NWCG Incident Response
Pocket Guide (IRPG)* helps ensure that critical factors and risks
associated with fireline operations are considered during decision
making. This process enhances safety practices when applied to fire
operations prior to taking action. The Risk Management Process is found
on the inside of the back cover of this document.

**Job Hazard Analysis (JHA)**

A completed Job Hazard Analysis is required for:

-   Jobs or work practices that have potential hazards.

-   New, non-routine, or hazardous tasks to be performed where potential
    hazards exist.

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-   Jobs that may require the employee to use non-standard personal
    protective equipment (PPE).

-   Changes in equipment, work environment, conditions, policies, or
    materials.

-   Supervisors and appropriate line managers must ensure that
    established JHAs are reviewed and signed prior to any non-routine
    task or at the beginning of the fire season. Additional JHA
    information can also be obtained at:
    http://www.fs.fed.us/r1/people/jha/jha_index_www.html.

-   ***BLM** - A risk assessment (in lieu of JHA) must be completed for
    all non-suppression work practices/projects that have potential
    hazards.*

**Work/Rest**

To assist in mitigating fatigue, days off are allowed during and after
assignments. If necessary to reduce fatigue, the Type 1 or 2 Incident
Commander (IC) or agency administrator (AA) (incident host or home unit)
may provide time off supplementary to mandatory days off requirements.
For Type 3-5 incidents, paid days off should be rare exceptions.
However, if necessary, the agency administrator (incident host or home
unit) may authorize day(s) off with pay.

The IC or AA authority to grant a day off with pay lies within 5 U.S.C.
6104, 5 CFR 610.301-306, and 56 Comp. Gen. Decision 393 (1977).

-   Plan for and ensure that all personnel are provided a minimum 2:1
    work to rest ratio (for every 2 hours of work or travel, provide 1
    hour of sleep and/or rest).

-   Work shifts that exceed 16 hours and/or consecutive days that do not
    meet the 2:1 work/rest ratio should be the exception, and no work
    shift should exceed 24 hours. However, in situations where this does
    occur (for example, initial attack), incident management personnel
    will resume 2:1 work/rest ratio as quickly as possible.

-   The Incident Commander or agency administrator must justify work
    shifts that exceed 16 hours and those that do not meet 2:1 work to
    rest ratio. Justification will be documented in the daily incident
    records. Documentation shall include mitigation measures used to
    reduce fatigue.

-   The Time Officer's/Unit Leader's approval of the Emergency
    Firefighter Time Report (OF-288), or other agency pay document,
    certifies that the required documentation is on file and no further
    documentation is required for pay purposes.

The work/rest guidelines do not apply to aircraft pilots assigned to an
incident. Pilots must abide by applicable Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA) guidelines, or agency policy if more restrictive.

**Length of Assignment**

**Assignment Definition**

An assignment is defined as the time period (days) between the first
full operational period at the first incident or reporting location on
the original resource order and commencement of return travel to the
home unit.

**Length of Assignment**

Standard assignment length is 14 days, exclusive of travel from and to
home unit, with possible extensions identified below. Time spent in
staging and preposition status counts toward the 14-day limit,
regardless of pay status, for all personnel, including Incident
Management Teams.

**Days Off**

After completion of a 14 day assignment and return to the home unit, two
mandatory days off will be provided (2 after 14). Days off must occur on
the calendar days immediately following the return travel in order to be
charged to the incident. (See Section 12.1-2) (5 U.S.C. 6104, 5 CFR
610.301-306, and 56 Comp. Gen. Decision 393 (1977). If the next day(s)
upon return from an incident is/are a regular work day(s), a paid day(s)
off will be authorized. []{.mark}

Regulations may preclude authorizing this for non-NWCG and state/local
employees.

Pay entitlement, including administrative leave, for a paid day(s) off
cannot be authorized on the individual's regular day(s) off at their
home unit. Agencies will apply holiday pay regulations, as appropriate.
A paid day off is recorded on home unit time records according to agency
requirements. Casuals (AD) are not entitled to paid day(s) off upon
release from the incident or at their point of hire.

Contract resources are not entitled to paid day(s) off upon release from
the

incident or at their point of hire.

Home unit agency administrators may authorize additional day(s) off with
compensation to further mitigate fatigue. If authorized, home unit
program funds will be used.

All length of assignment rules apply to aviation resources, including
aircraft pilots, notwithstanding the FAA and Agency day off regulations.

**Assignment Extension**

Prior to assigning incident personnel to back-to-back assignments, their
health, readiness, and capability must be considered. The health and
safety of incident personnel and resources will not be compromised under
any circumstance.

-   Assignments may be extended when:

    -   life and property are imminently threatened,

    -   suppression objectives are close to being met,

    -   a military battalion is assigned,

    -   replacement resources are unavailable, or have not yet arrived.

Upon completion of the standard 14 day assignment, an extension of up to
an additional 14 days may be allowed (for a total of up to 30 days,
inclusive of mandatory days off, and exclusive of travel). Regardless of
extension duration, two mandatory days off will be provided prior to the
22nd day of the assignment.

Contracts and Emergency Equipment Rental Agreements (EERA) should be
reviewed for appropriate pay requirements and length of assignment. If
the contract or EERA do not address this, the incident
Finance/Administration Section Chief or the procurement official should
be consulted as to whether compensation for a day off is appropriate.

**Single Resource/Kind Extensions**

The Section Chief or Incident Commander will identify the need for
assignment extension and will obtain the affected resource's
concurrence. The Section Chief and affected resource will acquire and
document the home unit supervisor's approval.

The Incident Commander approves the extension. If a convened geographic
or national multi-agency coordinating group (GMAC/NMAC) directs, the
Incident Commander approves only after GMAC/NMAC concurrence.

If the potential exists for reassignment to another incident during the
extension, the home unit supervisor and affected resource will be
advised and must concur prior to reassignment.

**Incident Management Team Extensions**

Incident management team extensions are to be negotiated between the
incident Agency administrator, the Incident Commander, and the GMAC/NMAC
(if directed).

Upon release from the assignment, regardless of extension duration, two
mandatory days off will be provided immediately following the return to
the home unit, and are chargeable to the incident. (See above for
compensation and days off guidelines).

**Management Directed Days Off at Home Unit**

Supervisors must manage work schedules for initial attack, dispatch and
incident support personnel during extended incident situations. During
periods of non-routine or extended activity, these employees will have a
minimum of 1 day off in any 21-day period.

**Driving Standard**

All employees driving motor vehicles are responsible for the proper
care, operation, maintenance and protection of the vehicle. The use of
government-owned, rented, or leased motor vehicles is for official
business only. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

**General Driving Policy**

-   Employees must have a valid state driver's license in their
    possession for the appropriate vehicle class before operating the
    vehicle. Operating a government-owned or rental vehicle without a
    valid state driver's license could result in disciplinary action.

-   All drivers whose job duties require the use of a motor vehicle will
    receive initial defensive driver training within three months of
    entering on duty and refresher driver training every three years
    thereafter.

-   The operator and all passengers are required to wear seat belts and
    obey all federal and state laws.

-   All traffic violations or parking tickets will be the operator's
    responsibility.

-   All driving requiring a CDL will be performed in accordance with
    applicable Department of Transportation regulations.

-   ***BLM -** All employees operating a Government motor vehicle will
    be required to submit Form DI-131 (Application for U.S. Government
    Motor Vehicle Operator's Identification Card) and OF-345 (Physical
    Fitness Inquiry for Motor Vehicle Operators). When the supervisor
    signs the DI-131, the employee is authorized to operate
    Government-owned or leased vehicles, or privately-owned vehicles on
    official business. Individual office forms equivalent to the OF-345
    and DI-131 are acceptable.*

-   ***BLM -*** *Employees operating any motor vehicle with a GVWR of
    26,000 pounds or more, towing a vehicle 10,000 pounds GVWR or more,
    hauling hazardous material requiring the vehicle to be placarded, or
    transporting, 16 or more persons, including the driver, must possess
    a valid Commercial Drivers License (CDL) with all applicable
    endorsements.*

-   ***BLM -*** *Seat belts must be available and used in Bureau motor
    vehicles. Without exception, seat belts must be worn at all times by
    motor vehicle operators and passengers, regardless of the distance
    to be traveled or the time involved. If any employee fails to fasten
    their seat belt while riding in a vehicle on official business, they
    are subject to disciplinary action as determined by local
    management.*

-   ***FS -** Policy requires all operators of government owned, or
    leased vehicles to have a Forest Service issued identification card
    indicating the type of vehicles or equipment the holder is
    authorized and qualified to operate.*

-   ***BLM/FWS/NPS -** The DOI has granted wildland fire agencies a
    waiver to allow employees between the ages of 18 and 21 to operate
    agency commercial fire vehicles using a state issued CDL under the
    specific conditions as stated below:*

    -   Drivers with a CDL may only drive within the state that has
        issued the CDL and must comply with the state's special
        requirements and endorsements.

    -   These drivers must only drive vehicles that are equipped with
        visible and audible signals, and are easily recognized as fire
        fighting equipment. This excludes, but is not limited to, school
        buses used for crew transport and "low-boy" tractor trailers
        used for construction equipment transport.

    -   Supervisors must annually establish and document that these
        drivers have a valid license (i.e. that the license has not been
        suspended, revoked, canceled, or that the employee has not been
        otherwise unqualified from holding a license - 485 DM 16.3.B
        (1), ensure that the employee has the ability to operate the
        vehicle(s) safely in the operational environment assigned (485
        DM 16.3.B (2), and review and validate the employee's driving
        record (485 DM 16.3.B(4)).

    -   Wildland fire driving safety statistics from the Safety
        Management Information System (SMIS) will be reviewed at the end
        of the 2007 fire season to determine if there is any reason why
        the waiver should not become permanent policy.

**Non-incident Operations Driving**

Refer to the current Driving Standards for each individual agency.

**Incident Operations Driving**

This policy addresses driving by personnel actively engaged in wildland
fire suppression or all-risk activities; including driving while
assigned to a specific incident (check-in to check-out) or during
initial attack fire response (includes time required to control the fire
and travel to a rest location).

-   Agency resources assigned to an incident or engaged in initial
    attack fire response will adhere to the current agency work/rest
    policy for determining length of duty day.

-   No driver will drive more than 10 hours (behind the wheel) within
    any duty-day.

-   Multiple drivers in a single vehicle may drive up to the duty-day
    limitation provided no driver exceeds the individual driving (behind
    the wheel) time limitation of 10 hours.

-   A driver shall drive only if they have had at least 8 consecutive
    hours off duty before beginning a shift. Exception to the minimum
    off-duty hour requirement is allowed when essential to:

    -   Accomplish immediate and critical suppression objectives.

    -   Address immediate and critical firefighter or public safety
        issues.

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-   As stated in the current agency work/rest policy, documentation of
    mitigation measures used to reduce fatigue is required for drivers
    who exceed 16 hour work shifts. This is required regardless of
    whether the driver was still compliant with the 10 hour individual
    (behind the wheel) driving time limitations.

    -   ***FWS/NPS -** Program funds are authorized to pay for the cost
        of CDL licensing fees and exams, necessary for employees to
        operate fire equipment, with one exception. That exception
        involves those cases where a test has been failed and must be
        retaken, in which case the employee will be responsible for
        costs associated with additional testing*.

**Fire Vehicle Operation Standards**

Operators of all vehicles must abide by state traffic regulations.
Operation of all vehicles will be conducted within the limits specified
by the manufacturer. Limitations based on tire maximum speed ratings and
Gross Vehicle Weight restrictions must be followed. It is the vehicle
operator's responsibility to ensure vehicles abide by these and any
other limitations specified by agency or state regulations.

Headlights and taillights will be illuminated at all times while the
vehicle is in motion. Emergency lighting will not be used except when
performing suppression or prescribed fire operations, or to mitigate
serious safety hazards. Overhead lighting and other emergency lighting
must meet state code requirements, and will be illuminated whenever the
visibility is reduced to less than 300 feet. Blue lights are not
acceptable for wildland fire operations.

**Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)**

All personnel are required to use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
appropriate for their duties and/or as identified in JHAs. Employees
must be trained to use safety equipment effectively. PPE devices will be
used only when equipment guards, engineering controls, or management
control do not adequately protect employees.

-   ***NPS -*** *No required personal protective equipment will be
    purchased that does not meet or exceed USDA-Forest Service or
    National Fire Protection Association Standards.*

**Required Fireline PPE includes:**

-   8-inch high, lace-type exterior leather work boots with non-slip,
    Vibram-type, melt-resistant soles. The 8-inch height requirement is
    measured from the bottom of the heel to the top of the boot. Alaska
    is exempt from the Vibram-type sole requirement. All boots that meet
    the footwear standard as described above are authorized for
    firefighting.

-   fire shelter

-   hard hat with chinstrap

-   goggles/safety glasses

-   ear plugs/hearing protection

-   yellow aramid shirts

-   aramid trousers

-   leather gloves

-   Wear additional PPE as identified by local conditions, material
    safety data sheet (MSDS), or JHA.

Permanent-press materials are not to be worn, as they melt and stick to
the skin when exposed to flame or heat. Because most synthetic fibers
melt when exposed to flame or extreme radiant heat, personnel should
wear only undergarments made of 100 percent cotton or wool, aramid, or
other fire resistant materials.

Aramid clothing should be cleaned or replaced whenever soiled,
especially when soiled with petroleum products. Aramid clothing will be
replaced when the fabric is so worn as to reduce the protection
capability of the garment or is so faded as to significantly reduce the
desired visibility qualities. Any modification to personal protective
equipment that reduces the fire protection capability such as iron-on
logos, and stagging of pants, is an unacceptable practice and will not
be allowed on fires.

**Head Protection**

Personnel must be equipped with hard hats and wear them at all times
while on the fireline. Hard hats must be equipped with a chinstrap,
which must be fastened while riding in, or in the vicinity of,
helicopters.

Acceptable helmets for fireline use are "Helmet, Safety, Plastic" (NFES
#0109, NSN 8415-01-055-2265) listed in NWCG *National Fire Equipment
System Catalog: Fire Supplies and Equipment*, or equivalent helmets
meeting the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standard 1977,
*Standard on Protective Clothing and Equipment for use in Wildland
Firefighting* and American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
Z89.1-1986.

Hard hats consist of two components - the shell and the suspension -
which work together as a system. Both components require periodic
inspection and maintenance. Specific inspection and maintenance
instructions are found in Missoula Technology and Development Center
(MTDC) Tech Tip publication, *Your Hardhat: Inspection and Maintenance*
(0267-2331-MTDC).

**Eye and Face Protection**

The following positions require the wearing of eye protection:

-   nozzle operator

-   chainsaw operator/faller

-   helibase and ramp personnel

-   retardant mixing crews

-   other duties may require eye protection as identified in a specific
    JHA.

In addition to goggles full face protection in the form of a face shield
in compliance with ANSI Z87.1 shall be worn when working in any position
where face protection has been identified as required in the job
specific JHA/risk assessment: Terra-Torch®, power sharpener operators,
etc.

**Hearing Protection**

Personnel who are exposed to a noise level in excess of 85db must be
provided with, and wear, hearing protection. This includes, but is not
limited to:

-   chainsaw operators/fallers

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-   pump operators

-   helibase and aircraft ramp personnel

-   retardant mixing personnel

-   any other personnel exposed on a regular basis to damaging noise
    levels.

Other duties may require hearing protection as identified in a specific
JHA.

Employees with a time weighted average exposure of 85 db or higher are
required to be placed under a hearing conservation program as required
by *29 CFR 1910.9.* Consult with local safety & health personnel for
specifics.

**Neck Protection**

Face and neck shrouds are not required PPE. However, if used, face and
neck shrouds shall meet the requirements of FS specification 5100-601 or
*NFPA 1977 Standard on Protective Clothing and Equipment for Wildland
Fire Fighting, 1998 ed*.

Shrouds should not routinely worn throughout the operational period, due
to increases in physiological heat stress.

**Leg Protection**

All chainsaw operators will wear chainsaw chaps meeting the FS 6170-4
specification. Chainsaw chaps shall be maintained in accordance with
MTDC Publication, *Inspecting and Repairing Your Chainsaw Chaps User
Instructions* (0567-2816-MTDC).

**Foot Protection**

Personnel assigned to fires must wear 8-inch high, lace-type exterior
leather work boots with non-slip, Vibram-type, melt-resistant soles. The
8-inch height requirement is measured from the bottom of the heel to the
top of the boot. Alaska is exempt from the Vibram-type sole requirement.
All boots that meet the footwear standard as described above are
authorized for firefighting.

The boots are a condition of employment for firefighting positions and
are purchased by the employee prior to employment.

-   ***FWS -*** *Red carded fireline permanent, temporary and seasonal
    Fish and Wildlife personnel will be provided with these boots from
    station funds not more often than every three years. Emergency or
    casual firefighters will provide their own boots. Some refuge
    situations may require special footwear such as waders, hip boots,
    snake boots, etc.*

-   ***NPS -** Government funds will be utilized for purchase of
    wildland fire boots for those employees currently red
    carded/certified in positions which require wildland and prescribed
    fireline duties. The individual employee must be available to
    perform those duties when assigned; if not routinely available for
    park fire assignments, FIREPRO funds should not be used to purchase
    boots for that employee.*

-   ***NPS -** FIREPRO funds, not to exceed \$100 a pair, may be used to
    purchase or repair boots. Other government funds, such as from
    safety, protection or maintenance accounts, may also be used for
    purchase or to augment FIREPRO funds, dependent on local management
    direction. Costs to repair boots not damaged on fire should be
    charged to other appropriate accounts.*

-   ***NPS -** It is the responsibility of the local FMO to determine
    those employees requiring boots as personal protective equipment,
    and the frequency of necessary replacement or repair. Boots will be
    considered similar to uniform items and will not be subject to cache
    item return, due to health, sanitation, and individual sizing
    considerations.*

**Respiratory Protection**

The use of respiratory protection (e.g., dust masks, half-mask
respirators) must be in compliance with agency safety and health
regulations and *OSHA's Respiratory Protection Standard 29 CFR
1910.134*.

-   ***BLM/FWS/NPS -** Managers and supervisors will not knowingly place
    wildland firefighters in positions where exposure to noxious gases
    or chemicals would require the use of self-contained breathing
    apparatus.*

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-   ***FS - FSM - 5135.3 - Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus -**
    Wildland firefighters may use only an open-circuit, self-contained
    breathing apparatus (SCBA) of the positive pressure type when smoke
    from vehicle, dump, structure, or other non-wildland fuel fire
    cannot be avoided while meeting wildland fire suppression objectives
    (29 CFR 1910.134, Respiratory Protection). If such an apparatus is
    not available, avoid exposure to smoke from these sources.*

-   ***FS -** The acquisition, training, proper use, employee health
    surveillance programs, inspection, storage, and maintenance of an
    SCBA must comply with the National Fire Protection Association
    Standard, NFPA-1981 and 29 CFR 1910.134I, and be justified by a Job
    Hazard Analysis. Where an SCBA is approved, it may be carried only
    on a fire engine and its use must be consistent with FSM 5130.2 and
    FSM 5130.3.*

**Fire Shelters**

Fire shelters will be issued and carried in a readily accessible manner
by all line personnel. Fire shelters will be inspected regularly, to
ensure they meet agency and manufacturer standards. New Generation fire
shelters will replace existing stock of old fire shelters by the end of
calendar year 2008 for all federal wildland firefighters and by the end
of calendar year 2009 for all other firefighters. Training in the
deployment of new generation fire shelters will be provided prior to
issuance.

Training Shelters will be deployed at required Annual Fireline Safety
Refresher Training. No live fire exercises for the purpose of fire
shelter deployment training will be conducted.

The deployment of shelters is to be viewed as a last resort, and will
not be used as a tactical tool. Supervisors and firefighters must never
rely on fire shelters instead of using well-defined escape routes and
safety zones. When deployed on a fire, fire shelters will be left in
place and not be removed pending approval of authorized investigators.

**Specialized or** **Non Standard PPE**

Specialized Personal Protective Equipment not routinely supplied by the
agency required to perform a task safely must be ordered in accordance
with agency direction.

A JHA/risk assessment must be completed and reviewed by the Unit Safety
Officer and the supervisor's approval is required. Items must meet
agency and industry standards for specific intended use. Cold weather
flame resistant outer wear shall be in compliance with NFPA 1977,
*Standard on Protective Clothing and Equipment for Wildland
Firefighting*. All cold weather inner wear should be composed of 100%
cotton/wool, or of aramid and other flame resistant materials.

**Fireline Safety**

**Incident Briefings**

Fire managers must ensure that safety briefings are occurring throughout
the fire organization, and that safety factors are addressed through the
IC and communicated to all incident personnel at operational briefings.
The identification and location of escape routes and safety zones must
be stressed. A briefing checklist can be found in the *Incident Response
Pocket Guide (IRPG).*

**LCES** - **A System for Operational Safety**

LCES will be used in all operational briefings and tactical operations
as per the *Incident Response Pocket Guide (IRPG)*.

-   

-   L - Lookout(s)

-   C - Communication(s)

-   E - Escape Route(s)

-   S - Safety Zone(s)

**Incident Safety Oversight**

Agency administrators must be actively involved in the management of
wildland fires, and personally visit an appropriate number of escaped
fires each year. Fire and aviation management staff can provide the
appropriate PPE and guidance.

-   ***FS -** Agency* *administrators, Fire Program Managers, and/or
    Safety and Health Program Managers shall conduct after action
    reviews on all type 3 fires and a minimum of 10% of their unit's
    Type 4, and 5 fires and document their inspections in the incident
    records.*

Incident Commanders are responsible for personnel safety. Additional
safety oversight may be requested when:

-   A fire escapes initial attack or when extended attack is probable.

-   There is complex or critical fire behavior.

-   There is a complex air operation.

-   The fire is in an urban intermix/interface.

[]{.mark}

Every individual has the right to turn down unsafe assignments. When an
individual feels an assignment is unsafe they also have the obligation
to identify, to the degree possible, safety alternatives for completing
that assignment. The *IRPG* contains process for *How to Properly Refuse
Risk*.

**Unit/Area Closures**

Threats to public safety may require temporary closure of a unit/area,
or a portion of it. When a fire threatens escape from the unit/area,
adjacent authorities must be given as much advance notice as possible in
order to achieve orderly evacuation.

**Standard Safety Flagging**

The NWCG recommends the following Safety Zone/Escape Route flagging for
wildland fire activities:

-   Hot-pink flagging marked "Escape Route" (NFES 0566). Crews with
    colorblind members may wish to carry and utilize XXX fluorescent
    chartreuse flagging (NFES #2396).

-   Hazards. Yellow with black diagonal stripes, 1 inch wide (NFES
    0267).

> If the above recommendation is not utilized on an incident, the
> incident will need to identify the selected color and it make known to
> all firefighters.

**Unexploded Ordnance (UXO)**

General guidance is as follows: If UXO is suspected, do not enter the
area. Small arms (rifle and shotgun) munitions areas should be flagged
and avoided by fire personnel. For suspected larger munitions, the area
must be avoided by fire personnel and contact local law enforcement bomb
squad or nearest Department of Defense agency. Each unit will determine
which employees are authorized to enter known or potential hazardous
substance release sites, and the responsibility for these determinations
remains with each agency administrator. The general rule of UXO is, "if
you did not drop it, do not pick it up, kick it or hit it with
equipment".

**Hazardous Materials**

Employees that discover any unauthorized waste dump or spill site that
contains indicators of potential hazardous substances (e.g, containers
of unknown substances, pools of unidentifiable liquids, piles of unknown
solid materials, unusual odors, or any materials out of place or not
associated with an authorized activity) should take the following
precautions:

-   Follow the procedures in the Incident Response Pocket Guide.

-   Treat each site as if it contains harmful materials.

-   Do not handle, move, or open any container, breathe vapors, or make
    contact with the material.

-   Move a safe distance upwind from the site.

-   Contact appropriate personnel. Generally, this is the Hazardous
    Materials Coordinator for the local office.

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-   ***BLM/FWS/NPS -*** *Agencies require that all field personnel
    complete a First Responder Awareness training.* *Firefighters are
    required to take an annual refresher for Hazardous Material
    protocol.*

The following general safety rules shall be observed when working with
chemicals:

-   Read and understand the Material Safety Data Sheets.

-   Keep the work area clean and orderly.

-   Use the necessary safety equipment.

-   Label every container with the identity of its contents and
    appropriate hazard warnings.

-   Store incompatible chemicals in separate areas.

-   Substitute less toxic materials whenever possible.

-   Limit the volume of volatile or flammable material to the minimum
    needed for short operation periods.

-   Provide means of containing the material if equipment or containers
    should break or spill their contents.

**Heat Stress**

There are three forms of heat stress. The mildest is heat cramps. Heat
stress can progress to heat exhaustion and eventually heat stroke. Heat
stroke is a medical emergency. Delayed treatment can result in brain
damage and even death. At the first sign of heat stress, stop work, get
into the shade, and begin drinking fluid. *See Chapter 05 of Fitness and
Work Capacity, 2nd ed. (1997).*

**Smoke and Carbon Monoxide**

For information of this subject call USDA Forest Service, Technology and
Development Program, Publications, (406) 329-3978, and ask for *Health
Hazards of Smoke, Recommendations of the Consensus Conference, April
1997 (item Number 97512836).* Copies are available free of charge in
limited numbers.

**Six Minutes for Safety Training**

It is recommended that daily "Six Minutes for Safety" training be
conducted that focuses on high-risk, low frequency activities that fire
personnel may encounter during a fire season. A daily national "Six
Minutes for Safety" briefing can be found at
http://www.nifc.gov/sixminutes/dsp_sixminutes.php and in the National
Situation Report.

**Safety for Non-Operational Personnel Visiting Fires**

A wide variety of personnel such as agency administrators, other agency
personnel, dignitaries, members of the news media, etc may visit
incidents. The following standards apply to all visitors.

**Visits to an Incident Base**

The minimum recommendation for PPE at an incident base is the same as
all field locations.

-   Lace-up shoes with non-slip soles and heels

-   Long trousers

-   Long-sleeve shirt

-   For agency personnel, the field uniform is appropriate; however for
    more flexibility the aramid fire shirts and trousers or flight suit
    may be worn.

-   ***BLM -** Refer to BLM Handbook 1112-2, 3.3 BLM requires 6" shoes.*

**Visits to the Fireline**

Visits to the fireline must have the approval of the IC.

-   Visitors must maintain communications with the DIVS or appropriate
    fireline supervisor of the area they are visiting.

-   Required PPE:

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-   8-inch high, lace-type exterior leather work boots with non-slip,
    Vibram-type, melt-resistant soles. The 8-inch height requirement is
    measured from the bottom of the heel to the top of the boot. Alaska
    is exempt from the Vibram-type sole requirement. All boots that meet
    the footwear standard as described above are authorized for
    firefighting.

-   Yellow aramid shirts

-   aramid trousers

-   hard hat with chinstrap

-   leather gloves

-   fire shelter

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-   Required equipment/supplies:

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-   hand tool

-   water canteen

Visitors to the Fireline may be "Escorted" or "Non-Escorted" depending
on the following requirements:

**Non-Escorted** **Visits**

-   Visitors must have a minimum physical fitness level of "light".

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-   Must have adequate communications and radio training.

-   Completed the following training:

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-   Introduction to Fire Behavior (S-190)

-   Firefighter Training (S-130)

-   Annual Fireline Safety Refresher Training.

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-   Deviation from this requirement must be approved by the IC for other
    non-escorted support personnel involved in vehicle operations or
    other support functions on established roadways and working in areas
    which pose no fire behavior threat.

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-   ***BLM/FWS** - Law Enforcement physical fitness standard is accepted
    as equivalent to a "light" WCT work category.*

**Escorted** **Visits**

All non-incident, non-agency, visitors lacking the above training and
physical requirements must be escorted while on the fireline.

-   Visitors must receive training in the proper use of PPE.

-   Requirement for handtool and water to be determined by escort.

-   Visitors must be able to walk in mountainous terrain and be in good
    physical condition with no known limiting conditions.

-   Escorts must be minimally qualified at the Single Resource Boss. Any
    deviation from this requirement must be approved by the IC.

**Helicopter Observation Flights**

Visitors who take helicopter flights to observe fires must receive a
passenger briefing and meet the following requirements:

-   **Required PPE:**

    -   Flight helmet

    -   Leather boots

    -   Fire-resistant clothing

    -   All leather or leather and aramid gloves

Occasional passengers/visitors have no training requirement, but a
qualified flight manager must supervise loading and unloading of
passengers.

**Fixed-Wing Observation Flights**

-   **Required PPE**

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-   No PPE is required for visitors and agency personnel who take
    fixed-wing flights to observe fires. However, a passenger briefing
    is required, and the flight level must not drop below 500 feet AGL.

**SAFENET**

SAFENET is a form, process, and method for reporting and resolving
safety concerns encountered in any aspect (e.g., preparedness, training,
etc.) of wildland fire or all risk incident management. The information
provided on the form will provide important, safety-related data to the
National Interagency Fire Center, and determine long-term trends and
problem areas.

The objectives of the form and process are:

-   To provide immediate reporting and correction of unsafe situations
    or close calls in wildland fire.

-   To provide a means of sharing safety information throughout the fire
    community.

-   To provide long-term data that will assist in identifying trends.

-   Primarily intended for wildland and prescribed fire situations,
    however, SAFENET can be used for training and all-risk events.

Individuals who observe or who are involved in an unsafe situation shall
initiate corrective actions if possible, and then report the occurrence
using SAFENET. You are encouraged, but not required, to put your name on
the report.

Prompt replies to the originator (if name provided), timely action to
correct the problem, and discussion of filed SAFENETs at local level
meetings encourage program participation and active reporting.

SAFENET is not the only way to correct a safety-related concern and it
does not replace accident reporting or any other valid agency reporting
method. It is an efficient way to report a safety concern. It is also a
way for front line firefighters to be involved in the daily job of being
safe and keeping others safe, by documenting and helping to resolve
safety issues. SAFENETs may be filed:

-   electronically at http://safenet.nifc.gov

-   postage paid mail-in form (PMS 405-2, NFES 2633)

-   verbally by telephone at 1-888-670-3938.

**Accident/Injury Reporting**

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandate that
all accidents and injuries be reported in a timely manner. This is
important for the following reasons:

-   To protect and compensate employees for incidents that occur
    on-the-job.

-   To assist supervisors and safety managers in taking corrective
    actions and establish safer work procedures.

-   To determine if administrative controls or personal protective
    equipment are needed to prevent a future incident of the same or
    similar type.

-   To provide a means for trend analysis.

Employees are required to immediately report to their supervisor every
job-related accident or incident. Managers and supervisors shall ensure
that an appropriate level of investigation is conducted for each
incident and record all personal injuries and property damage.
Coordinate with your human resources office or administrative personnel
to complete appropriate Officer of Worker's Compensation (OWCP) forms.

-   Reporting is the responsibility of the injured employee's home unit
    regardless of where the accident or injury occurred.

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-   DOI employees will report accidents using the Safety Management
    Information System (SMIS) at
    [www.smis.doi.gov](http://www.smis.doi.gov/) within six working days
    of the incident.

-   Forest Service employees will use the Safety and Health Information
    Portal System (SHIPS) through the Forest Service Dashboard at
    <https://asp.talx.com/dashboard/usdafs/> within six working days of
    the incident.

**Critical Incident Management**

The National Wildfire Coordinating Group has published the *Agency*
*Administrator's* *Guide to Critical Incident Management (PMS 926, NFES
1356).* The guide is a series of subject-area checklists designed to be
reviewed in detail before a critical incident occurs, during the actual
management of the incident, and after the incident has taken place. It
is a compilation of lessons learned and suggestions that are designed to
assist an agency administrator in the management of a critical incident.
The guide is not intended to replace local emergency plans or other
specific guidance that may be available, but should be used in
conjunction with existing SOPs. It is available through the Publications
Management System website http://www.nwcg.gov/pms/pubs/PMS926-DRAFT.pdf