1 / 91

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.

yoko-colon
Download Presentation

BLM ATV Drip Torch Module

An Image/Link below is provided (as is) to download presentation Download Policy: Content on the Website is provided to you AS IS for your information and personal use and may not be sold / licensed / shared on other websites without getting consent from its author. Content is provided to you AS IS for your information and personal use only. Download presentation by click this link. While downloading, if for some reason you are not able to download a presentation, the publisher may have deleted the file from their server. During download, if you can't get a presentation, the file might be deleted by the publisher.

E N D

Presentation Transcript

  1. BLM ATV Drip Torch Module

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. Module Objectives(Continued) • Identify the capabilities and limitations of the ATV and drip torchduring firing operations. • Identify external factors that may affect ATV drip torch performance. • Identify field training evaluation criteria.

  6. ATV Drip TorchIntroduction

  7. 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.

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

  9. 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.

  10. 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.

  11. 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

  12. PPE and Safety Equipment

  13. Job Hazards AnalysisComponents • 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).

  14. 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

  15. ATV Drip Torch PPE(Continued) • Aramid shirt • Aramid trouser • Leather gloves • FM Radio • Additional PPE as identified by local conditions and Risk Assessment or JHA

  16. ATV Safety Items • 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

  17. ATV Safety ItemsTo be Considered Before Operations • ATV drip torch tank will be empty prior to unloading or loading into pickup beds or trailers due to weight and balance issues.

  18. Safety Items . . .(Continued) • 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.

  19. 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.

  20. 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.

  21. 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.

  22. 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.

  23. 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.

  24. ATV Drip Torch OperatorDuties 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.

  25. 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.

  26. 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.

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

  28. ATV Inspection Prior to Drip Torch Firing Operations

  29. ATV Inspection for Operational SoundnessATV 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.

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

  31. Where is our bridge?

  32. 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.

  33. 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

  34. 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

  35. 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.

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

  37. 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.

  38. Torch InspectionOverall Unit • 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?

  39. Torch InspectionFrame 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.

  40. Torch InspectionFrame 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.

  41. 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.

  42. Torch InspectionFuel Tank (Continued) • Check that fuel tank pressure gauge is in working order.

  43. Torch InspectionSupply Lines • Check that all connections are tight. • Check lines for breaks or crimps; replace if necessary.

  44. Torch InspectionPressureSystem 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.

  45. 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.

  46. 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.

  47. Torch InspectionPressure 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.

  48. Torch InspectionFuel 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.

  49. Propane line PropaneIgniter # 6 Break-away lock and pad Wand swivel mount Flame shield Drip torchfuel line Torch InspectionWand

  50. Torch InspectionWand (Continued) Ensure that: • Propane igniter #6 is mounted properly and is securely attached to wand. • All line connections—both fuel and propane—are tight.

More Related