April 2, 1998

 To:Emergency and Protective Services Committee

Budget Committee

 From:Fire Chief Alan F. Speed

 Subject:Transitional Project - Self Contained Breathing Apparatus

  Purpose:

 Introduction of one standard of self contained breathing apparatus across the city to ensure fire fighter safety and allow Fire Services to safely re-assign staff and apparatus as resources are required.

 Funding Sources, Financial Implications and Impact Statement:

 A one-time transitional investment is requested. The estimated costs for the introduction of one standard of apparatus is $2,000,000 for the purchase of 700 breathing apparatus, cylinders, voice amplifiers, face pieces, and associated equipment.

 Recommendations:

 It is recommended that:

 (1)the funding in the amount of $2,000,000 be approved as part of the Transition Funding; and

 (2)the City of Toronto Fire Services proceed to review the different types of self contained breathing apparatus available and select one type for purchase.

 Council Reference/Background/History:

 This project was originally submitted January 8, in the 1998 Fire Services Capital Budget, and then re-submitted February 18, when the Transition Projects were removed from the Capital Budget.

 Currently there are three different types of self contained breathing apparatus in use, M.S.A. 4500 Custom 11, Scott (4.5 & 2.2) and ISI for a total of approximately 850 units.

 Comments and/or Discussion and/or Justification:

 The delay of the selection and implementation of one standard type would be a safety concern. NFPA 1404 (Standard for a Fire Department Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus Program) Section 2.1 Inventory and Allocation requires sufficient self contained breathing apparatus for all members with a reserve supply of air, either in the form of spare cylinders or an on-site filling system. At large scale incidents, when the former departments overlap on their response, or when fire fighters are relocated throughout the city, it will be vital that the fire fighters are fully trained and familiar with the specific breathing apparatus in service. If a situation should arise where the unit malfunctions, it is essential that the fire fighter instantly engages the emergency procedures. With three different types of apparatus in use, fire fighter safety is compromised.

 Also the existing types and styles of breathing apparatus are in various stages of condition and age and many of them must be replaced during 1998.

 Conclusions:

 Three different types and numerous styles of aging breathing apparatus are not conducive to providing effective fire protection services. Therefore, in the interest of fire fighter safety and uninterrupted service at emergency incidents, the City of Toronto should purchase and introduce one standard of self contained breathing apparatus during 1998.

 Contact Names:

 William Stewart

Deputy Chief

497-4304

Alan F. Speed

Fire Chief

Barry Gutteridge

Commissioner, Works and Emergency Services

BL/mp