2 in 2 out, who does it?

[TXFIRE6]

I am curious on some ideas from around the country as to who performs initial "RIC/RIT" functions on the fireground. 2 in 2 out is becoming law in Texas Sept. 1st, and I was curious for a 3 man engine, what the SOP's are from around the country. Is it ok for the Engineer in bunker pants be "available" to be on the team
"if necessary"....as the rule states. any input would be great.

[Asst. Chief 512]

TXFIRE6,

I hope your not confuised about 2-in 2-out and RIT , They are two different teams. You always will need a back up team and a RIT at any time there is any inside attack going on. As far as the pump opperator being used as anything but an engine opperator I would not do that. If your only going with 3 man engines than I would call another alarm for a RIT and a back-up team. Life is to short to fight a house fire with 3 men. Hope this helps .



[ 08-16-2001: Message edited by: Asst. Chief 512 ]

[jsdobson]

My department allows for an Initial Rapid Intervention Team to be composed of an Engineer (working at the pump panel with all his/her PPE and SCBA readily available) and another member of the first alarm assignment.

This arrangement will be replaced by an Engine or Truck company crew serving as the RIT as soon as more personnel arrive on location.

This arrangement may not be the best situation but it does allow us to maintain the 2 in / 2 out requirements as well as initiate rescue and/or fire suppression operations in a timely manner.

Good luck.

[E229Lt]

Jeff,

//
My department allows for an Initial Rapid Intervention Team to be composed of an Engineer (working at the pump panel with all his/her PPE and SCBA readily available) and another member of the first alarm assignment
//...This arrangement may not be the best situation but it does allow us to maintain the 2 in / 2 out requirements... //

Using the first due pump operator as part of the "2 out" safety team is, in fact, contrary to OSHA policy.

[HHoffman]

If using a person causes more of a hazard, they should stay in the position they are in. (ie pump operator, IC) I know of many small department in PA that are forced to work with 2 and 3 member crews. It will take more tax money to fix the problem.

[jdevisser]

[ 08-29-2001: Message edited by: jdevisser ]

[jdevisser]

E229lt,
I am interested in your comment about an engineer being part of the 2in/2out formula and that being against OSHA. I am an engineer from Texas(not an OSHA state) and will be required to be part of the formula, as will the IC. This is obviously a horrible idea, leaving the engine by itself and not having an IC at an escalating incident. What does OSHA say about the engineer being part of the formula? Any info is appreciated.