Did you know that it’s not sufficient just to say that an apparatus or component is out of service? You also have to provide some sort of visual indication that is recognized by everyone in the department.

NFPA 1911 requires departments “establish a means to immediately identify that the apparatus is out of service for any operator who might have reason to use the apparatus.” This may include a sign on the outside of the driver’s door, a special bag over the steering wheel, a large sign on the driver’s window, or some other highly visible mechanism at the driver’s position that all members of the department recognize as an out-of-service indicator.

If a specific component is taken out of service, but the apparatus is still in service, a color sign must be placed on the inside of the driver’s door indicating which component is out of service. A highly visible device also must be placed at the component’s controls to indicate it is out of service.
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This feature offers a variety of short tips and facts about apparatus specifications, maintenance and testing. Look for it every month. Submissions of 150 words or less are welcome from our readers, subject to editing. Send them to Senior Editor Chris Cavette at cavettes@ix.netcom.com