IAFF National Fire Fighter Near-Miss Report of the Month

Improper Set up of Aerial Locking Waterway Puts Fire Fighter’s at Risk
Report #08-235

“While performing training on aerial ladder pipe evolutions, the "pinnable" waterway was not properly secured by the firefighter performing the evolution. The aerial was raised and the ladder pipe was charged. Once water made it to the nozzle, the water way extended until it reached the tip. The nozzle, metal structure that surrounds the nozzle and fly section water way fell 80 feet to the ground landing on the edge of a wooded area. Fortunately, no one was in that vicinity.”

NIOSH recommends that all fire departments utilizing aerial trucks with locking waterways immediately take action to reduce the risk of firefighters being struck by unsecured waterways. This month’s Fire Fighter Near-Miss report validates the need to inspect, train, and plan for aerial incidents.

Discussion Questions

1. What written policies and procedures are in place within your department regarding aerial operations?

2. Does your department have a SOP to ensure proper inspection of waterways to include locking mechanism and accessories prior to use?

3. Are all personnel properly trained in the correct method of securing waterways and verifying the waterways are secure per manufacturer’s recommendations?

4. Is your department aware that NIOSH is currently investigating a fire fighter line-of-duty death (April 08, 2008) involving the catastrophic failure of a pinnable waterway?  View the NIOSH Safety Alert here.

5. Have you experienced a near miss involving an aerial ladder?


Note: The questions posed by the reviewers are designed to generate discussion and thought in the name of promoting firefighter safety. They are not intended to pass judgment on the actions and performance of individuals in the reports.


Please review NIOSH Safety Advisory, May 08, 2008
Stay safe
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