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PMS 448

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Read the Introduction for more information on these standards, including where to direct comments, questions, and recommendations. As new items are introduced, current items are discontinued, and/or health and safety issues arise, these standards will be revised to provide updated information. Sort by Update Date to view recent changes.

Puller – Fencepost

NFES Status:
Active
NFES #:
000011
Category:
Miscellaneous
Updated:
Storage and Shelf Life Checks:
None

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Visually inspect for broken or missing parts.
  2. Inspect for structural damage, bent upright or handle, if so dispose of. Salvage usable parts.
  3. Return to stock if item passes inspection, is clean and shows no sign of use.
  4. Dispose of item if it does not pass inspection and is not repairable.
  5. Refurbish if item has been used and/or damage is repairable.

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Cleaning

  1. Remove all foreign material with a stiff brush.
  2. Wipe with damp cloth and let dry.

B. Repair

  1. Replace bolts and pins if bent or broken
  2. Repaint if necessary to prevent rust or corrosion.

C. Testing for Performance

  • Inspect to see that all parts function correctly once refurbishing is complete.

D. Repackaging

  • None

 

Pallet Jack – Truck

NFES Status:
Active
NFES #:
007233
Category:
Miscellaneous
Updated:
Storage and Shelf Life Checks:
None

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Visually inspect for broken or missing parts.
  2. Inspect for structural damage, bent handle, cracked, or broken wheels, missing, or broken mechanism components, if so, determine if economical to repair.
  3. Jack up the truck, preferably with weight on it, and watch to see if it will hold weight without sinking down.
  4. Return to stock if item passes inspection, is clean, and shows no sign of use.
  5. Dispose of item if it does not pass inspection and is not repairable.
  6. Refurbish if item has been used and/or damage is repairable.

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Cleaning

  1. Remove all foreign material with a stiff brush.
  2. Wipe with damp cloth and let dry.
  3. Exceptionally dirty or greasy pallet jacks can be pressure washed using caution around wheels and other moving parts. Allow to air dry.

B. Repair

  1. Follow manufacturers recommendations on all repairs and service. Most manufacturers have online service and repair manuals.
  2. Replace wheels, handles, hydraulic jack, or any other components if economically viable and using only manufacturers recommended parts. Many models and brands do not have interchangeable parts. Only experienced or trained personnel should complete repairs. Contract repair companies may need to be utilized.
  3. Grease bushings and bearings where needed. Follow manufacturers recommendations for lubricant points and type.
  4. Fill hydraulic oil as needed following manufacturers recommendations and procedures.
  5. Repaint if necessary, to prevent rust, or corrosion taking care to not paint wheels or any other moving parts.

C. Testing for Performance

  • Inspect to see that all parts function correctly, the pallet jack holds weight without sinking, and rolls freely once refurbishing is complete.

D. Repackaging

  • None
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Reference:

<p>
See manufacturer for brand specific maintenance, repairs, and parts. The following links are meant as a general guideline and samples.</p>

<p>
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HYJrq3FA63Y&quot; target="_blank" title="This link will direct you to a non-government website that may have different policies from those of NWCG.">How to Bleed the Air Out of the Hydraulic Unit on a Pallet Jack</a><br />
Time: 1:31</p>

<p>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HYJrq3FA63Y&quot; title="Information on jack-trucks. Video." width="560"></iframe><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wIYE_1a2fg0&quot; target="_blank" title="This link will direct you to a non-government website that may have different policies from those of NWCG.">Step-by-Step: Replace Load Wheels on Your Pallet Jack</a><br />
Time: 5:06</p>

<p>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wIYE_1a2fg0&quot; title="Information on jack-trucks. Video." width="560"></iframe><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=if0LUhQ3SiE&quot; target="_blank" title="This link will direct you to a non-government website that may have different policies from those of NWCG.">Replace the Steer Wheels on a Manual Pallet Jack</a><br />
Time: 2:35</p>

<p>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/if0LUhQ3SiE&quot; title="Information on jack-trucks. Video." width="560"></iframe><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>
<a href="https://www.genericparts.com/Services/Crown_GPS.pdf&quot; target="_blank" title="This link will direct you to a non-government website that may have different policies from those of NWCG.">Crown Pallet Jack Service Manual</a></p>

<p>
&nbsp;</p>

Headlamp – Firefighters, LED

NFES Status:
Active
NFES #:
000718
Category:
Miscellaneous
Updated:
Storage and Shelf Life Checks:
Yes
Storage and Shelf Life Procedure:
Store without batteries.

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Inspect for broken wires, rust or corrosion on any metal part, and cracks in the battery case, light bezel, or lens cover. Inspect for broken or missing components, O-Ring damage, battery leakage in the battery case, and dirt or damage to retention straps.
  2. Return to stock if item has not been removed from plastic bag, is clean and appears to have not been used (inspect for batteries in battery case).
  3. Refurbish item if easily cleaned and any missing or damaged components are available for replacement.
  4. Dispose of item if missing or damaged components aren’t replaceable; if battery leakage is discovered; or if unit fail testing for performance.

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Cleaning

  1. Wipe entire unit clean to include lamp housing, battery cam, and both sides of lens with soft cloth and mild soapy water.
  2. Remove retention straps and hand wash with mild detergent, rinse and air dry. Reinstall.

B. Repair

  1. Install new retention straps, battery case latch, and O-ring if required.
  2. Lightly lubricate the O-ring and lens cap threads with silicone grease when necessary.
  3. Salvage usable parts from unserviceable units when practical.

C. Testing for performance

  1. Test unit with new batteries.
  2. Test all light mode functions; if any bulb does not function, dispose of headlamp.
  3. Test elasticity of retention straps; if defective, replace.
  4. Check O-ring is present and pliable, replace as necessary.
  5. Remove batteries prior to storage.

D. Repackaging

  1. Individually package headlamp in plastic bag.
  2. Package 50 each in NFES #002006 carton (23” x 19” x 10”).

 

Harness – Chest, Fire Shelter

NFES Status:
Active
NFES #:
000294
Category:
Miscellaneous
Updated:
Storage and Shelf Life Checks:
None

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Inspect for cuts, tears, frayed, or burned areas on webbing and harness material. Inspect for any area of abrasion that has weakened the webbing beyond repair. Inspect all plastic hardware for proper function, cracks, breaks, or missing components.
  2. Return to stock if item shown no sign of use or damage.
  3. Refurbish if holes, cuts, tears or burns are easily repaired, broken or missing components are replaceable, and if repairs are economically feasible.
  4. Dispose of item if excessive wear or damage is found and it is not economically feasible to return item to a like new condition.

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Cleaning - CLASS 2 CORDURA (MACHINE WASH OK)

  1. Allow any mud or loose dirt to dry, and remove using a stiff-bristle brush. If stains remain, wash as recommended below.
  2. Remove light oil and dirt stains by brushing with a solution of warm water and a mild detergent, rinse thoroughly, and hang to dry. “Mild detergents” includes most home laundry detergents that contain no chlorine bleach or added scents.
  3. For heavier oil or grease, soak in water-soluble biodegradable degreaser for at least 30 minutes, brush with a bristle brush, rinse thoroughly, and hang to dry.
  4. If machine washing, use only cold water on a gentle cycle and air dry.
  5. Where no other method is cleaning the fabric, wash with pressure washer set at wide fan, warm water, and only allow nozzle close enough as necessary for cleaning, the further away the better for the fabric. DO NOT MACHINE DRY. DO NOT USE BLEACH.

B. Repair

  1. Repair holes, cuts, tears, and/or burns; if economically feasible.
  2. Replace damaged hardware.

C. Testing for performance

  • Test hardware by fastening and unfastening. The hardware should function easily with little applied force and without difficulty in opening and closing.

D. Repackaging

  • Local cache option.

 

Food – Meals Ready to Eat (MRE’S)

NFES Status:
Active
NFES #:
001842
Category:
Miscellaneous
Updated:
Storage and Shelf Life Checks:
Yes
Storage and Shelf Life Procedure:
Storage and Shelf Life Checks How long MREs last depends on how long they are stored and at what temperatures they are stored. At the least, they'll last 1 month at 120 degrees F. Or they could last 60+ months at 50 degrees F.

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Receipt inspection: Verify shipping carton for marking of MRE meals. The carton must show the following data:
    N (National Stock Number)
    Item Nomenclature
    Wt. _______ Cu_______
    Contract No. ______________ Lot No._________
    Name and Address of Ration Assembly Contractor
    Date packed
    ITD Inspection test date
    Fresh – Check Indicator
  2. Expiration of MRE meals will be based on a US Army food service inspector’s evaluation.
  3. The Fresh-check Indicator may be used for field inspections.
  4. Return to stock if MRE’s are in original unopened carton packaging, have no indication of damage, and are within expiration dates indicated on outside of carton.
  5. There are no refurbishment procedures for this item.
  6. Dispose of all loose, partial, or open MRE meals, and all unmarked MRE meals or meals not in original carton packaging.
    1. The meal will be removed from its container and rendered unusable and placed in a wet-garbage container.
    2. The water activated Flameless Ration Heater, for heating the MRE entrée, will be removed from its packaging and placed in a metal pail with enough water to submerge and deactivate. It may then be disposed of in your local landfill.

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Cleaning

  • Dust or wipe down outer carton.

B. Repair

  • none

C. Testing/Retesting

  1. Inspect container for proper marking.
  2. Look for container damage, insect or rodent damage, product leakage, and foul odor. If damage is found, follow Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria.
  3. Mark case/pallet with next inspection test date if no damage found.
  4. Extension of Expiration Dates requires US Army Food Service Inspector’s evaluation.

D. Repackaging

  • Label appropriately and store accordingly.

Time/temp chart provided by the manufacturer:

MRE Shelf life graphic. Months from 1-60, temperature from 0-140.

Since about 1997, MRE cases have also included something called a TTI (time and temperature indicator) on the outside of the box to assist inspectors in determining if MREs are still good. There are two parts to the TTI - an outer dark circle and an inner light circle. As long as the inner circle is still lighter than the outside circle, the MREs are supposed to be good.

MRE time-temperature indicator graphic showing what the dot on the label should look like. MRE temperature button showing an actual TTI button where the inner circle is lighter than the outside circle.
Reference:

<p>
<a href="https://www.mreinfo.com/mres/mre-shelf-life/">MRE Shelf Life</a></p>

Extinguisher – Fire, 20A:120BC, 20 lbs. (9.1L)

NFES Status:
Active
NFES #:
000307
Category:
Miscellaneous
Updated:
Storage and Shelf Life Checks:
Yes
Storage and Shelf Life Procedure:
Yearly inspection by authorized service representative.

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Visual inspection of use gauge. 
  2. Ensure the gauge arrow is registering in the “green.”
  3. If gauge arrow is in the “red”, set aside for an authorized service representative.
  4. Inspect for missing parts:  Safety pin, hose, and bracket.
  5. Verify tag for expiration date and signature of authorized service representative.
  6. If either of these is in question, set aside for authorized service representative.
  7. Return to stock if unused, passes inspection and not expired.
  8. Refurbish if item is dirty, expired or needs other service.
  9. To dispose of an old fire extinguisher that cannot be refilled or that you do not wish to refill:
    1. Release any pressure contained in the canister by shooting a small amount into an open area.
    2. Let the canister sit for a few days, making sure the pressure has been released.
    3. Once there is no longer any pressure, dispose in a trash bag in your regular garbage.

Refurbishment Procedures

A. Cleaning

  • Wipe down entire unit with a damp rag and make sure hose is free of dirt or debris.

B. Repair

  • Repair, testing and filling performed by authorized service representatives only.

C. Testing for Performance

  • none

D. Repackaging

  1. Package 1 each in NFES #000385 carton (7.25” x 9.25” x 26”) to prevent accidental discharge of extinguisher. 
  2. Label carton with:
    • Extinguisher’s expiration date
    • NFES #000596 LABEL - NON-FLAMMABLE GAS 2.
    • Directional arrows “This Side Up” oriented in the direction of the extinguisher standing upright.
    • NFES label

 

 

Berm – Containment, 55 GL (1 to 4 drums)

NFES Status:
Active
NFES #:
000692
Category:
Miscellaneous
Updated:
Storage and Shelf Life Checks:
None

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Inspect for dirt, debris, fuel, and other liquids which may be present and/or soiled absorbent cloth.  Dispose of soiled absorbent cloth according to local hazardous materials standards.
  2. Must have foam bumper around the outer edge (see photo below).  The lay flat style is being removed from service.
  3. Inspect for torn or missing tie down grommets, holes, rips, or tears that are large or too numerous. Repair if holes or tears are 1 inch or less, or a combination of 3 holes with a combined length of 1.5 inches.
  4. Return to stock if item shows no signs of use and passes initial inspection.
  5. Refurbish if damage detected is repairable.
  6. Dispose of item if damage is determined to be unrepairable.

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Cleaning

  1. Clean with pressure washer to remove matter such as mud, dirt, and grease.
  2. Use a solution of mild detergent and water to remove grease with an absorbent cloth.
  3. Dispose of saturated cloth according local hazardous materials standards.
  4. Wipe dry or let air dry.

B. Repair

  1. Hold up to strong light or sun to locate holes.  Holes or tears 1 inch or less or a combination of 3 holes with a combined length of 1.5 inches are acceptable for repair.
  2. With suitable cleaner, apply vinyl adhesive to both surfaces, i.e., patch and berm.
  3. Let dry till tacky.
  4. Place patch on damaged area and apply pressure with roller or suitable device for at least 1 minute.
  5. Let berm sit flat and dry.
  6. Vinyl welding with patch material like in thickness and color of berm material is acceptable for repair.  Follow instructions or established local procedures for completing vinyl welding repairs.

C. Testing for Performance

  • none

D. Repackaging

  1. Roll berm and band for storage. (see photos below for details)
  2. Suggested packaging is 1 each in NFES #000513 carton (36” x 24” x 17”).

EXAMPLE ROLL FOR PLACING IN 0645 CARTON

Fold left side to center.

Fold right side to center.

Roll up folded berm.

Tie rolled berm with twine.

Place rolled and bound berm in box.

 

 

Berm – Containment, 15 GL

NFES Status:
Active
NFES #:
000693
Category:
Miscellaneous
Updated:
Storage and Shelf Life Checks:
None

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Inspect for dirt, debris, fuel, and other liquids which may be present and/or soiled absorbent cloth.  Dispose of soiled absorbent according to local hazardous materials standards.
  2. Inspect for torn or missing tie down grommets, holes, rips, or tears that are large or too numerous. Repair if holes or tears 1 inch or less or a combination of 3 holes with a combined length of 1.5 inches
  3. Return to stock if item shows no signs of use and passes initial inspection.
  4. Refurbish if damage detected is repairable.
  5. Dispose of item if damage is determined to be unrepairable.

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Cleaning

  1. Clean with pressure washer to remove matter such as mud, dirt, and grease.
  2. Use a solution of mild detergent and water to remove grease with an absorbent cloth.
  3. Dispose of saturated cloth according to local hazardous materials standards.
  4. Wipe dry or let air dry.

B. Repair

  1. Hold up to strong light or sun to locate holes. Holes or tears 1 inch or less or a combination of 3 holes with a combined length of 1.5 inches are acceptable for repair.
  2. With suitable cleaner, apply vinyl adhesive to both surfaces, i.e., patch and berm.
  3. Let dry till tacky.
  4. Place patch on damaged area and apply pressure with roller or suitable device for at least 1 minute.
  5. Let berm sit flat and dry.
  6. Vinyl welding with patch material like in thickness and color of berm material is acceptable for repair. Follow instructions or established local procedures for completing vinyl welding repairs.

C. Testing for Performance

  • none

D. Repackaging

  1. Roll berm and band for storage.
  2. Suggested cartons:
    • 10 ea. 0645 carton
    • 10 ea. 0338 carton

       

Page Last Modified / Reviewed:

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Date: April 01, 2024
Contact: NWCG Webmaster

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WFSTAR 2023 Year in Review and 2024 Core Component Module Packages Available

Date: March 6, 2024
Contact: Joe Schindel 

The 2023 Fire Year in Review module and 2024 Core Component Module Packages for RT-130, Wildland Fire Safety Training Annual Refresher (WFSTAR) are now available on the NWCG website. The 2024 Core Component Module Package provides all content needed to deliver RT-130.

 

References:

WFSTAR 2023 Fire Year in Review module

WFSTAR 2024 Core Component Module Packages

2024 NWCG Executive Board Annual Letter

Date: March 6, 2024
Contact: NWCG

The NWCG Executive Board is privileged to share with you the 2024 NWCG Executive Board Annual Letter. As we look into the future and navigate an incredibly complex and dynamic environment, we must remain focused on our mission while actively engaging in national conversations regarding numerous wildland fire initiatives. In 2024, we prioritize building upon our successes and committing to continuous improvement. Key priorities and considerations for this year include: 

  • Determining Core Workload
  • Ensuring Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) Success
  • Improving Efficiencies
  • Firefighter Health and Wellness
  • Engagement in National Conversations

Together we will continue to make significant strides in the challenging and vital work that lies ahead. 

 

References:

2024 NWCG Executive Board Annual Letter

NWCG Welcomes NASA

Date: February 22, 2024
Contact: NWCG

NWCG welcomes the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) as an associate member.

“As wildfires become larger and more frequent, NASA is working to apply our scientific and technological knowledge toward this national challenge, and integral to our approach is forging collaborative partnerships,” said NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy. 

 

References:

NASA News Release

NWCG