S.O.G. No.: 01-037
Revision: May 2010
Effective Date: Feb 1994
1. PURPOSE
1.1 In the interest of the department member’s health and safety, this document is established to provide guidelines maintaining a safe work environment.
2. REFERENCES
2.1 Union Fire District Board of Wardens Policy
3. SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
3.1 The department shall maintain a safe working environment throughout all incidents in accordance with NFPA, OSHA and other appropriate safety standards.
4. PROCEDURE/ SCOPE
The following serves as the Union Fire District guideline for electrical incidents.
PURPOSE
To provide personnel with specific guidelines outlining the assignments and responsibilities of apparatus and personnel at electrical incidents.
I. GENERAL
A. Due to the high probability of death and injury that can occur during incidents involving
electrical fires, certain mandatory procedures will be followed.
B. When it is reported that apparatus will be responding to a electrical fires in a building or area, all personnel must be in full turnout gear including SCBA. Use of a Hotstick may be prudent.
II. GUIDELINES
A. Apparatus of any description will be positioned at least one pole length away to avoid ground gradient.
B. Establish an exclusion zone equal to one and one half the length of the downed line in all directions from effected power lines.
C. Be aware that other wires may have been weakened by a short circuit and may fall at any time.
D. Wear full protective clothing and use only tested and approved tools with insulated handles.
E. Guard against electrical shocks, burns, and eye injuries from electrical area.
F. Wait for utility workers to cut any power lines.
G. Use lockout/tagout devices when working on electrical equipment.
H. Be very careful when raising or lowering ladders near power lines. A minimum of 10’ clearance is necessary.
I. Do not touch any vehicle or apparatus that is in contact with electrical wires.
J. The Incident Commander will notify Dispatch to contact the Electric Company as soon as a preliminary investigation has determined that their assistance is required.
K. The Incident Commander or an Engine Company will remain on scene until the Electric Company declares the condition corrected or the Incident Commander feels that it is safe to secure the operation.
III. COMPANY ASSIGNMENTS
A. FIRST DUE ENGINE COMPANY
1. Place apparatus well beyond any downed wire or an apparent electrical source. Keep the distance at a minimum of 1 1⁄2 times the length of the wire.
2. Assess the incident and update Incident Command.
B. SECOND DUE ENGINE COMPANY
1. Second Engine will take water supply.
C. THIRD DUE ENGINE COMPANY
1. Stage and prepare to assist.
D. LADDER COMPANY / SPECIAL HAZARDS
1. Stage and prepare to assist.