# Presentation: 471380

## BLM ATV Drip Torch Module

***BLM ATV ******Drip Torch Module***

## Module Objectives

- Provide a basic overview of ATV drip torch policy and procedures.
- Identify qualifications of the ATV Drip Torch Operator (ATVF).
- List the training and currency requirements of the ATVF.
- Provide specifications of ATV drip torch firing equipment.

## Module Objectives(Continued)

- List the proper personal PPE for operating the ATV drip torch.
- List the safety items that need be on the ATV for torch operations.
- Identify the ATV Drip Torch Operator duties and responsibilities.
- Provide information on inspections of the ATV and firing equipment.

## Module Objectives(Continued)

- Identify specific parts of the ATV drip torch.
- Provide information and procedures for operating the ATV drip torch during an ignition operation.
- Identify specific parts of a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA).
-  Review Sample JHA.

## Module Objectives(Continued)

- Identify the capabilities and limitations of the ATV and drip torch during firing operations.
- Identify external factors that may affect ATV drip torch performance.
- Identify field training evaluation criteria.

## ATV Drip TorchIntroduction

## The ATV drip torch firing device was developed to be mounted on an ATV and provides a method of igniting ground fuels, in a short time, on large acreages.

## The firing device uses the same standard mix used in hand-held drip torches.

## The ATV Drip Torch Operator (ATVF) can control the flow of drip torch fuel being applied to ground fuels from his/her driving position. The complete system is jettisonable by the ATVF in case of emergency.

## ATV Drip Torch Operator  Qualifications

- Must be certified for ATV Driving and ATV Drip Torch operations.
- Must be a Firefighter Type 1 (FFT1) with previous RX Ignition experience.
- Must have had Fireline Safety Refresher Training for the current year.

## ATV Drip Torch Operator Training Requirements

- BLM ATV Basic and Advanced Training
- Documentation of ATV certification, as required by agency
- Familiar with operation of specific ATV drip torch unit
- Completion of BLM ATV Drip Torch Module and a minimum of one successful assignment
- Completion of the BLM ATV Drip Torch Operator Field Evaluation

- PPE and Safety Equipment

**Notes:**
Instructor note: This individual does not have the proper head protection.

## Job Hazards AnalysisComponents

- Header box
- All boxes in the header must be filled in.
- Basic Job Steps column
- Briefly describes various tasks in an ATV operation.
- Potential Hazards column
- Identifies potential hazard(s) when performing the task.
- Safe Job Procedures column
- Identifies safe job procedures to reduce or abate the hazard(s).

## ATV Drip Torch PPE 

- 8-inch, lace-type work boots with non-slip (Vibram type), melt-resistant soles and heels
- Fire shelter
- Protective helmet (must be DOT approved).  The standard wildland fire hardhat will not be worn while operating an ATV.
- Goggles/safety glasses
- Hardhat

**Notes:**
1.  Hardhat must be worn when fighting fire. I think and through conversations with others, that a hard hat could be worn when driving in operations (Your speed is way down). But when driving to place of work helmet should be worn (speed is up).
2. Shelter deployment you must ware a hardhat.

## Aramid shirt
Aramid trouser
Leather gloves
FM Radio
Additional PPE as identified by local conditions and Risk Assessment or JHA

- Aramid trouser
- Leather gloves
- FM Radio
- Additional PPE as identified by local conditions and Risk Assessment or JHA

*ATV Drip Torch PPE*(Continued)

## Fire extinguisher not mounted on torch but easily accessible in event of a rollover, minimum size of 2A 10 B:C extinguisher
Standard Individual Firefighter First Aid Kit 
Standard ATV Tool Kit 
Hand tool for shelter deployment or firefighting

- Standard Individual Firefighter First Aid Kit
- Standard ATV Tool Kit
- Hand tool for shelter deployment or firefighting

*ATV Safety Items*

## ATV drip torch tank will be empty prior to unloading or loading into pickup beds or trailers due to weight and balance issues.

*ATV Safety Items*To be Considered Before Operations

**Notes:**
 Can we load ATV in a P/U truck???? If so need to get a picture of it.

## Whether a pickup or a trailer is used, the ATV must be securely tied down.  Ratchet-type nylon straps are recommended.  ATV brakes will be locked and the transmission should be in first gear or park during transportation. 

*Safety Items . . .*(Continued)

## The ATV Drip Torch will not be permanently affixed to the ATV.  It will be mounted in a fashion that allows the operator to rapidly jettison the ATV drip torch during a malfunction. 

*Safety Items . . .*(Continued)

## Safety Items . . .(Continued)

- A completed JHA or Risk Assessment is required for operating an ATV drip torch.  Supervisors and appropriate line managers must ensure that established JHA or Risk Assessment are reviewed and signed prior to any ATV Drip Torch Operation or at the beginning of the fire season.
- It is recommended that ATV drip torch ignition operations be performed with two ATV’s and operators, one ATV with drip torch and operator and a second ATV and operator for safety over site.

## Communications

- The ATV Drip Torch Operator shall have a direct communications link (portable radio) with the Firing Leader, Firing Boss and/or Burn Boss.  Helmet headsets attached to radios are ideal; however, the best alternative is a radio carried in a chest pack. The chest pack makes the radio more audible than when carried on a belt at the waist.

## ATV Firing Organization

- Prescribed/Wildland fire positions that the ATV Drip Torch Operator (ATVF) may work for include:
- Prescribed Burn Boss (RXB1 or 2)
- Firing Leader (FIRL)
- Firing Boss (FIRB)
- The ATVF works directly for these positions.

## ATV Drip Torch Operator Duties and Responsibilities 

- Perform a pre-burn inspection of ATV and torch – using checklists.
- Correctly install torch and safety equipment on ATV.
- Fuel torch in accordance with BLM Fuel handling policy.
-  Participate in discussion of ATV Drip Torch operations during pre-burn briefing.
- Maintain safe distance and contact with other ignition personal.

## ATV Drip Torch Operator Duties and Responsibilities (Continued)

- Maintain appropriate speed and safe operation while burning.
- Properly shut down torch when necessary.
- Correctly Load and secure ATV in transportation vehicle.
- Perform post burn torch maintenance and inspections.

## Fuel Handling and Fuel Transportation

- All fuel handling will be done in accordance with BLM policy.
- Fuel handling guidance can be found in *Interagency Transportation Guide for Gasoline, Mixed Gas, Drip-Torch Fuel, and Diesel 0651-2806-MTDC.*

## Mixing Fuel Ratios

- The mix ratio should be four parts diesel to one part  gasoline.
- For a hotter mix, use a mix ratio of three parts diesel to one part of gasoline.
- Wear eye protection and gloves when pouring or mixing fuel.

## Read and understand the ATV Manufacturer’s Operational Guide.

## ATV Inspection Prior to Drip Torch Firing Operations 

## ATV Inspection for Operational SoundnessATV Inspection Checklist 

- This should be done prior to any firing operation.
- The checklist developed for the Basic ATV course should be used.
- Make sure all items are checked, and if maintenance is needed, it is completed before using ATV.

## Read and understand the Maintenance and Operations Guide for the ATV drip torch. 

## Where is our bridge?

## BLM ATV Drip Torch Features

- Pump mechanics (pressure system) for the ATV Drip Torch is an inert gas under pressure. It does not use a gasoline or electric pump.
- There is no need for an electrical system or wiring.

## BLM ATV Drip Torch Features  (Continued)

- Torch has an easy jettisonable feature which does not effect the running of the ATV.
- Torch can be mounted on most ATV’s very easily.
- Torch was designed and manufactured for ATV use.
- Roll protection for valves, gauges, tubing, etc

## ATV Drip Torch Wand Features

- 180-degree rotation
- Interchangeable tip sizes
- Flexibility and shock absorption
- Check valve automatically closes when pressure is shutoff to prevent dripping of fuel
- Expandable or replaceable for different lengths
- Fuel line attached to the wand

## Ignition System Features

- System Type:  The drip torch fuel is ignited by a flame from a small propane torch at the wand tip, propane is supplied from a small auxiliary propane tank.

## ATV Drip Torch Placards

- The BLM ATV Drip Torch has placards that identify the various parts of the drip torch.

## ATV Drip Torch Operation Guide (Placard)

*ATV Drip Torch Operation Guide (Placard)*

- These placards are identified by a number and part name. A large placard called “Operations Guide” is also attached to the ATV Drip Torch which details how to operate the torch.

## Is it clean and operational?
Are all sub-assemblies with the unit and in good, working condition?
Is the unit mounted properly to the ATV?

- Are all sub-assemblies with the unit and in good, working condition?
- Is the unit mounted properly to the ATV?

*Torch Inspection*Overall Unit

## Torch InspectionFrame and Mounting Hardware

- Check for cracks in welds or broken frame members.
- Look for missing or loose nuts and bolts.
- Check to see that all parts are with the unit.

## Torch InspectionFrame and Mounting Hardware (Continued)

*Torch Inspection*Frame and Mounting Hardware (Continued)

- Mounting plates are bolted to ATV rack and rack is secure.
- Hold down connectors are in place, not broken or have excessive wear.

## Torch Inspection Fuel Tank

- Check that fuel tank is secured to the frame.
- Fill cap is in place with serviceable gasket and attaching chain is in place.

## Torch InspectionFuel Tank (Continued)

- Check that fuel tank pressure gauge is in working order.

## Torch InspectionSupply Lines

*Torch Inspection*Supply Lines

- Check that all connections are tight.
- Check lines for breaks or crimps; replace if necessary.

## Torch InspectionPressure System

*Torch Inspection*Pressure* *System

- The nitrogen bottle (tank) #8 (Pressure System) adds pressure to the fuel tank which pushes the drip torch fuel mixture out of the wand tip.
- Nitrogen, an inert gas is the authorized propellant.
- Use caution in handling or transporting nitrogen tanks.

## Torch Inspection Pressure System (Continued)

- Ensure nitrogen bottle (tank) # 8 is full and a spare tank is available if needed.
- Check that nitrogen bottle # 8 is secured to mounting bracket.

## Nitrogen Cylinders Are High Pressure Containers

**WARNING:** Care should be taken that nitrogen cylinders are used and stored in such a way as to minimize the risk of the tank falling over. With the regulator and gauge attached there is an increased likelihood of damage occurring to the cylinder valve should the tank fall. Catastrophic failure of the cylinder valve will turn the tank into a high-energy, unguided rocket with the capability of doing great damage and/or serious injury.

## Torch InspectionPressure System (Continued)

*Torch Inspection*Pressure System (Continued)

- Ensure that:
- Pressure Regulator #9 connection to bottle is tight.
- Regulator operation and pressure setting adjustments are made.
- Pressure discharge line is connected to fuel tank and tight.
- All gauges operate correctly.
- Pressure relief #7 (opens at 15 PSI) is clean and operates properly.

## Torch InspectionFuel System – Propane

*Torch Inspection*Fuel System – Propane

- Ensure that:
- Propane bottles (tanks) are secured in holding rack.
- Bottles are capped when not in use.
- All connections are tight and valves are off.

## Torch InspectionWand

## Ensure that:
Propane igniter #6 is mounted properly and is securely attached to wand. 
All line connections—both fuel and propane—are tight.

- Propane igniter #6 is mounted properly and is securely attached to wand.
- All line connections—both fuel and propane—are tight.

*Torch Inspection*Wand (Continued)

## Torch Inspection Wand (Continued)

- Ensure that:
- Break-away lock is adjusted to proper tension.
- Wand is adjusted for length and angle.
- Locking pin and clevis is in place.
- Nuts and bolts are in place and tight.

## Inspections can prevent accidents!

## Pre-Use OperationsFilling the Drip Torch Tank

- Shut off propane fuel at propane tank valve #4.
- Shut off propane fuel at in-line valve #5.

## Shut off propane by pushing red button in at Igniter #6 on the wand.

*Pre-Use Operations*Filling the Drip Torch Tank (Continued)

## Pre-Use OperationsFilling the Drip Torch Tank (Continued)

*Pre-Use Operations*Filling the Drip Torch Tank (Continued)

- Close the supply line Fuel Metering valve #3 located next to the needle valve.
- Needle valve can be adjusted to get the right flow at tip.

## Close the nitrogen tank supply valve #8. 
Close the low pressure supply nitrogen-to-tank valve #2 at the top of the fuel tank.

- Close the nitrogen tank supply valve #8.
- Close the low pressure supply nitrogen-to-tank valve #2 at the top of the fuel tank.

*Pre-Use Operations*Filling the Drip Torch Tank (Continued)

## Bleed off any pressure in the fuel tank using the Pressure Relief Valve # 7 on top of the fuel tank.
Open fuel tank and fill with drip torch mix.
Do not completely fill tank; fill to about 90% of tank capacity.
Replace cap and tighten securely.
Wipe up any fuel spilled on the tank or ATV and properly dispose of rags.

- Bleed off any pressure in the fuel tank using the Pressure Relief Valve # 7 on top of the fuel tank.
- Open fuel tank and fill with drip torch mix.
- Do not completely fill tank; fill to about 90% of tank capacity.
- Replace cap and tighten securely.
- Wipe up any fuel spilled on the tank or ATV and properly dispose of rags.

*Pre-Use Operations*Filling the Drip Torch Tank (Continued)

## Pre-Use OperationsPressurizing Fuel Tank

*Pre-Use Operations*Pressurizing Fuel Tank

- Open the Nitrogen tank high pressure valve #8 at nitrogen tank.
- Adjust the Pressure Regulator Gauge #9 to 10 PSI using the tee adjuster on the regulator.
- Open the low pressure supply Nitrogen-to-Tank valve #2 at the top of the fuel tank and check that tank pressure gauge reads the same as the Pressure Regulator Gauge #9.

## Check that the pressure relief valve operates properly 

- Check that the pressure relief valve operates properly
- Adjust the pressure regulator to 15 PSI.
- The pressure relief valve should open between 12 - 15 PSI.
- If it opens it is working properly.
- Re-adjust the pressure to 10 PSI with the pressure regulator.

## Pre-Use OperationsAdjusting Fuel Flow Rate

*Pre-Use Operations*Adjusting Fuel Flow Rate

- Place a bucket under the torch nozzle to catch fuel.
- Open the supply line Fuel Metering valve #3 located next to the needle valve.

## Pre-Use OperationsAdjusting Fuel Flow Rate (Continued)

*Pre-Use Operations*Adjusting Fuel Flow Rate (Continued)

- Adjust the flow rate with the needle valve if necessary.
- After the rate is set, turn off the Fuel Metering valve #3 .
- Remove the catch bucket and reclaim drip torch fuel.

## Torch OperationsLighting the Torch

*Torch Operations*Lighting the Torch

- Turn on propane at Propane valve #4 and at In-line Propane valve #5.
- Open propane torch adjustment red button at Igniter #6 on the wand.
- Operate igniter trigger on torch; when torch lights, lock trigger in place with trigger lock.

## Torch igniter is burning; we are now ready to put down a strip of fire.
Begin driving and open the supply line fuel metering valve #3 located next to the needle valve.

- Begin driving and open the supply line fuel metering valve #3 located next to the needle valve.

*Torch Operations*Lighting the Torch (Continued)

## Torch OperationsShutting Down

- Close drip torch fuel in-line valve #3 (next to needle valve).
- Turn off propane at the in-line valve #5 (below fuel in-line valve #3)
- Unlock propane igniter trigger #6 on torch wand. (to extinguish propane flame**)**

## Care and Maintenance of Equipment 

*Care and Maintenance of Equipment** *

## Keep unit clean and operational. 
Wash exterior of unit with soapy water to remove dirt and oil residue.
Inspect Frame and mounting hardware.
Check for cracks in welds or broken frame members. 

- Wash exterior of unit with soapy water to remove dirt and oil residue.
- Inspect Frame and mounting hardware.
- Check for cracks in welds or broken frame members.

*Care and Maintenance of Equipment** *(Continued)

## Look for missing or loose nuts and bolts. 
Check to see that all parts are with the unit. 
Mounting plates are bolted to ATV rack and rack is secure. 
Hold down connecters are in place, not broken or have excessive wear.  

- Check to see that all parts are with the unit.
- Mounting plates are bolted to ATV rack and rack is secure.
- Hold down connecters are in place, not broken or have excessive wear.

*Care and Maintenance of Equipment** *(Continued)

## TANK AND PIPING
Check that fuel tank is secured to the frame. 
Fill cap is in place with serviceable gasket and attaching chain is in place. 
Check that tank pressure gauge works.
Check that all connections are tight. 
Check lines for breaks or crimps, replace if necessary. 

- Check that fuel tank is secured to the frame.
- Fill cap is in place with serviceable gasket and attaching chain is in place.
- Check that tank pressure gauge works.
- Check that all connections are tight.
- Check lines for breaks or crimps, replace if necessary.

*Care and Maintenance of Equipment** *(Continued)

## PRESSURE SYSTEM
Ensure nitrogen tank is full and a spare tank is available if needed. 
Check that nitrogen pressure tank is secure to mounting bracket. 
Check pressure control valve/gauge connection to tank is tight. 
Check gauge operation and pressure setting adjustments.
Check that pressure discharge line is connected to fuel tank and tight. 

- Ensure nitrogen tank is full and a spare tank is available if needed.
- Check that nitrogen pressure tank is secure to mounting bracket.
- Check pressure control valve/gauge connection to tank is tight.
- Check gauge operation and pressure setting adjustments.
- Check that pressure discharge line is connected to fuel tank and tight.

*Care and Maintenance of Equipment** *(Continued)

## FUEL SYSTEM (PROPANE)
Tanks are secured in holding rack. 
Tanks are capped if not in use.
All connections are tight and valves are off.

- Tanks are secured in holding rack.
- Tanks are capped if not in use.
- All connections are tight and valves are off.

*Care and Maintenance of Equipment** *(Continued)

## WAND
Check that propane igniter torch is mounted properly and is securely attached to wand. 
Ensure all line connections both fuel and propane are tight. 
Check the break-away lock is adjusted for proper tension. 
Wand is adjusted for length and angle.
Check that locking pin and clevis are in place. 
Check that nuts and bolts are in place and tight. 

- Check that propane igniter torch is mounted properly and is securely attached to wand.
- Ensure all line connections both fuel and propane are tight.
- Check the break-away lock is adjusted for proper tension.
- Wand is adjusted for length and angle.
- Check that locking pin and clevis are in place.
- Check that nuts and bolts are in place and tight.

*Care and Maintenance of Equipment** *(Continued)

## CONTROLS
Check all gauges operate correctly.
Check pressure relief valve is clean and operates properly at 15 PSI.

- Check all gauges operate correctly.
- Check pressure relief valve is clean and operates properly at 15 PSI.

*Care and Maintenance of Equipment** *(Continued)

## ATV Drip Torch Operator should recon burn area prior to ignition.
Perform complete inspection of torch and support equipment (Use checklists.)
Include discussion of ATV torch operations in pre-burn briefing.
Document ATV torch use in JHA or Risk Assessment.

- Perform complete inspection of torch and support equipment (Use checklists.)
- Include discussion of ATV torch operations in pre-burn briefing.
- Document ATV torch use in JHA or Risk Assessment.

*ATV Drip Torch Firing Operations*Prior to Burn

## ATV Drip Torch Firing OperationsFiring Operations

- The Firing Boss/Firing Leader will not be the ATV Drip Torch Operator .
- Change operators as needed to avoid fatigue.
- Close the torch fuel valve and extinguish the flame when not actively firing.
- Watch out for fire burning under wand when the ATV is stopped.

## When going over large dips wand can get hung up if it is in the straight back position. 
Always use safe firing practices.
In thick brush or other areas with access problems, the operator should ride in and ignite on the way out.

- Always use safe firing practices.
- In thick brush or other areas with access problems, the operator should ride in and ignite on the way out.

*ATV Drip Torch Firing Operations*Firing Operations (Continued)

## ATV Drip Torch Firing OperationsFiring Operations - continued

- Maintain correct position and speed during ignition.
- When the operator dismounts the machine in an active fire area:
- Park ATV in the black or other safe area.
- Turn off the torch, extinguish the flame, and leave the ATV engine running.

## Provide LCES during torch operations.
Note natural and man-made hazards and limitations (getting stuck, rolling, terrain features, fences).
Understand ATV specific firing techniques. 
Maintain situational awareness and relay concerns to supervisors.

- Note natural and man-made hazards and limitations (getting stuck, rolling, terrain features, fences).
- Understand ATV specific firing techniques.
- Maintain situational awareness and relay concerns to supervisors.

*ATV Drip Torch Firing Operations*Firing Operations - continued

## Multiple ATV use:
Maintain a safe distance between ATVs when igniting to allow for reaction time if a problem develops.
Maintain continuous communication or visual contact with the operators on either side of you.
Never ignite when another ATV is directly downwind of you.
Never allow ignitions to trap other operators.

- Maintain a safe distance between ATVs when igniting to allow for reaction time if a problem develops.
- Maintain continuous communication or visual contact with the operators on either side of you.
- Never ignite when another ATV is directly downwind of you.
- Never allow ignitions to trap other operators.

*ATV Drip Torch Firing Operations*Firing Operations - continued

## ATV Drip Torch Firing Emergency Procedures

- Don’t let accidents happen to you !

## Emergency Procedures

- Provide for personal safety first.
- If ATV is stuck, stalled, or rolled:
- Notify others of your situation.
- Request help.
- Halt further ignition.
- Extinguish flame.
- Extinguish fire near machine using hand tool.

## Emergency Procedures(Continued)

- If torch catches fire:
- Try to extinguish the fire.
- If practical, jettison machine and drive away from torch.
- If torch cannot be jettisoned, abandon ATV/torch and leave area immediately.
- Notify others of your situation.
- Know your escape routes and safety zones.

## During firing operations using this ATV with a drip torch, the ATV became stuck in the mud; the operator had to abandon the vehicle as the fire approached.

## ATV Drip Torch Operator Field Evaluation

- Will be completed on each student going through the ATV Drip Torch Module and field work.
- The Field Evaluation Check Sheet is documentation of knowledge and operational awareness of the ATV drip torch.
- Completed ATV Drip Torch Operator Field Evaluation will be kept in employees training file.

## In any project where

**In any project where**
**risk exists, proper **
**contingency planning**
**will reduce or help**
**manage risk.**

## Always remember there are three types of ATV Drip Torch Operators :

- Those that can count.
- Those that can’t.

- Any Questions??

## Is this a safe operation?

## Module Objectives

- Provide a basic overview of ATV drip torch policy and procedures.
- Identify qualifications of the ATV Drip Torch Operator (ATVF).
- List the training and currency requirements of the ATVF.
- Provide specifications of ATV drip torch firing equipment.

## Module Objectives(Continued)

- List the proper personal PPE for operating the ATV drip torch.
- List the safety items that need be on the ATV for torch operations.
- Identify the ATV Drip Torch Operator duties and responsibilities.
- Provide information on inspections of ATV and the firing equipment.

## Module Objectives(Continued)

- Identify specific parts of the ATV drip torch.
- Provide information and procedures for operating the ATV drip torch during an ignition operation.
- Identify specific parts of a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA).
- Review Sample JHA.

## Module Objectives(Continued)

- Identify the capabilities and limitations during firing operations.
- Identify external factors that may affect ATV drip torch performance.
- Identify field training evaluation criteria.

## The End ~Be Safe Out There!

- The End ~Be Safe Out There!