Basic Faller

FAL3 Incident Position Description

The Basic Faller (FAL3) is an entry-level chainsaw operator that serves as a member of a firefighting crew or module. The FAL3 engages in low complexity fireline saw operations, including tree felling, bucking, brushing, and limbing, and should be closely supervised during operations. A FAL3 may perform FAL2 tasks under the direct supervisor of a FAL2. The FAL3 reports to an Intermediate (FAL2) or Advanced (FAL1) Faller, a Firefighter Type 1 (FFT1), or one of the Single Resource Bosses (FELB, Crew Boss, Single Resource [CRWB], Engine Boss, Single Resource [ENGB], Firing Boss, Single Resource [FIRB], Helicopter Manager, Single Resource [HMGB]). The FAL3 works in the operations functional area.

Prepare

• Remain mentally and physically fit and able to determine when conditions have changed, affecting your fitness for duty status.
• Ensure individual and equipment readiness.
• Continually strive to improve, learn from others, and develop safe practices that reinforce good habits and decision making.

Mobilize

• Gather critical information pertinent to the assignment.
• Travel to and check in at the assignment. Notify incident supervisor and/or dispatch when arriving at the incident.
• Obtain initial briefing from supervisor.

Build the Team

• Implements saw related objectives, priorities, and work assignments as directed.

Perform Basic Faller-Specific Duties

• Able to develop and safely execute a cut plan to resolve low complexity saw operations using conventional practices.
• Maintain certification and qualification by demonstrating proficiency of Basic Faller knowledge and technical skill to a qualified Intermediate or Advanced Faller evaluator(s) per agency protocol.
• Learn to identify tree anatomy and defects contributing to failure.
• Demonstrate a basic knowledge of chainsaw components, maintenance, and repair.

Communicate and Coordinate

• Establish and maintain positive communication and coordination with saw teams, your crew, adjoining resources, and supervisors in the work area.
• Before engaging, receive a thorough briefing from the appropriate supervisor addressing all saw operation specifications and associated expectations.
• Participate in After Action Reviews (AARs) and information sharing.

Manage Risk

• Apply the Risk Management Process as stated in the NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide (IRPG), PMS 461.
• Apply Lookouts, Communications, Escape Routes, and Safety Zones (LCES) to all saw operations.
• Plan for and manage medical emergencies.
• Report all accidents, injuries, or near misses to supervisor.
• Comply with all standards for chainsaw operations as defined in NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Chainsaw Operations, PMS 212, and established agency standards for saw operating procedures.
• Establish and maintain work area control.
• Develop and follow safe cutting area practices when using a swamper during saw operations.
• Learn to recognize changes in operational complexity and report pertinent changes to the appropriate supervisor.

Demobilize

• Ensure equipment is in good working condition for next assignment and resupply used or damaged equipment as necessary.
• Return equipment and supplies to appropriate units.
• Complete demobilization checkout process before being released from the incident.
• Upon demobilization, report status to the home unit including reassignment or estimated time of arrival (ETA) to the home unit.

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