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FDSS Services
These are just some of the services that we provide. Call us for more info.
The fire apparatus Pump Operator of today is not as practically skilled as generations in the past. They are well schooled in pump theory and hydraulics. What they lack is practical experience in properly supporting multiple lines. The reduction in the number of multi-line fires incidents and the advancement of operational technologies used to operate a pump, while valuable, have contributed to a disconnect. The basics of a centrifugal pump have remained essentially the same for generations. Electronics and other technologies have changed how we operate them. Some people believe the advancing technology has contributed to complacency and a false sense of operator confidence. At the same time the danger posed by fire has increased. What were ordinary combustibles in the 60’s & 70’s is now a complexity of chemistry evolving as a fire progresses. True danger, like never before, lurks for fire attack crews. Now is actually the time for pump operators to be highly skilled in the deployment of multiple lines & pressures, the management of water supply and the constant state of awareness related to the status of a pumping operation. This is the heart of what FDSS training addresses.
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Our combination of experience and technology targets the core of where operators need to improve. Our core programs relate directly to understanding and experience in the most real-world aptitudes of pump operations. We challenge the notion that technology replaces the need for savvy and presence of mind. The pump operator, in our FDSS hands-on program, gets to replicate the first 30 minutes of a fire. The kind of fire we don’t see that often these days. A fire of multiple hose lines of different diameter, tactical objective and pressure requirements. Events that challenge a pump operator are front and center in our programs. The difference is there isn’t a fire or someone, potentially in harm’s way. The pump operator in the FDSS program will successfully deal with events such as a hose rupture, the loss of water supply as well as many other challenges pump operators will face. We have shown time and time again that this training translates to a better outcome in a real event. The benefits of a competent operator are truly tangible. They include a higher degree of safety for hose crews, improved operational efficiency and less inadvertent damage to pumps. This training helps re-integrate the pump operator into the overall ICS “big picture”. Our programs are effective for the smallest volunteer departments to the largest metro departments alike. After all, protection of lives and property are universal, no matter who, where or what.
Pump service testing is an important part of a fire apparatus maintenance program. Simply put, the test is one indication of the readiness of the pump to perform as designed. This is why NFPA standards suggest that pump service testing be done at least annually. Pump tests should also be considered anytime major work to the pump, engine or drive train is performed.
FDSS provides on-site pump service testing utilizing the industry leading FD International self-contained mobile platform. Our equipment addresses NFPA standards for apparatus pump testing though an advanced computerized operational system that facilitates efficiency and accuracy. We use the Underwriters (UL) test records developed when the apparatus was new, as the basis for testing. It is typical that a well maintained apparatus pump will be able to perform, as it did when it was new, for its entire service life. FDSS pump test reports provide valuable data the customer can evaluate. This data may aide in identifying maintenance and even operator training needs. Safety of personnel during testing is also important. The FD international technology is probably the safest testing platform available on the market.
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Our pump testing falls well within the parameters of normal expected operational requirements and service test standards. We don’t try to get the pump to do anything is wasn’t designed to do. However, just like on a fireground, equipment can fail during the testing. Most, if not all, fire officials would prefer a failure to occur during testing rather than in the midst of a firefight. Testing should also be considered anytime there is reason to believe something occurred that may have affected the ability of the pump to perform to its rated capacity. Situations like running the pump dry, pump overheating and debris passing through the pump are examples of situations that may trigger the need for testing.
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