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PMS 448

PMS 448

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Torch – Drip, 1 1/4 GL (4.7L) Capacity

NFES #
000241
Category
Fuel Handling
Updated
Storage and Shelf Life Checks
None

 

National Caches will no longer refurbish non-OSHA approved torches.

Non-OSHA approved torches must be removed from service by June 2019

Please Note: Lock collar and stem apparatus are not interchangeable between manufacturers and can cause major leaks and fire hazards. Keep the lock collar, stem, and body of drip torch together throughout the inspection, repair, and refurb process. See ETC Safety Warning and Cache Memo for more information.

ETC Safety Warning 21-01, Drip Torch Lock Rings Detaching (nwcg.gov)

Drip Torch Lock Ring Cache Memo 2021

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Visually inspect tank for cracks, splits, and obvious damage that may cause tank to leak.  Ensure lock ring and threads are not damaged and seal properly and air breather tube is not broken or missing.  Ensure that discharge plug and chain are attached to tank cover assembly.  Visually inspect for correct alignment of igniter, fuel trap and fuel outlet.
  2. Return to stock if item is clean, undamaged, and in unused condition.
  3. Refurbish if economically feasible and parts are available
  4. Dispose of item if it fails inspection and is damaged beyond repair.
  5. Salvage usable components and parts for future repairs. 

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Cleaning

  1. Remove and properly dispose of any residual fuel before any refurbishment.
  2. Steam clean or wash with mild degreaser soap, rinse with water, inspect for and remove any scab deposits inside tank.
  3. Carbon buildup on the igniter and screen can be cleaned with wire brush as necessary. If carbon buildup is excessive on wick, replace as needed.
  4. Tighten screw that holds igniter and screen in place.
  5. Thoroughly dry all components with clean rag and air hose. Use air hose to blow wick dry and blow air through stem to ensure no water is trapped.   

B. Repair

  1. Replace igniter if screen is ruptured, crushed, or wick material is burned out.
  2. Ensure that the alignment of; igniter, fuel trap, and fuel outlet is correct (see figure 4 below).  Tighten screw that holds igniter and screen in place.
  3. Install discharge plug into the fuel outlet seat.
  4. Insert spout into tank and tighten lock ring.
  5. Replace worn flammable liquid labels if damaged.
  6. There are several different manufacturers of drip torches. Do not mix the components as the drip torch will not function correctly or will leak.

C. Testing for Performance 

  1. With torch in operational configuration, fill tank with water to check for leaks, turn drip torch with spout down, open vent, water should flow, close vent water should stop.
  2.  Repair any deficiencies found.
  3. Drain and let dry completely before repackaging. 
  4. Remember that parts from differing manufacturers are not interchangeable. Keep components together throughout the process.

D. Repackaging

  • 1 EA in NFES #008189 carton (16” x 8” x 8”)

 

Pictured (figures 1 & 2) are two D.O.T. approved shipping containers.

  1. Note the UN Markings and Flammable Liquid Label.  Drip Torch cans without these Markings and Label may not be used to transport fuel.
  2. The red can is the ‘NEW’ OSHA approved can for fuel dispensing.
  3. Non-OSHA approved torches, including those not powder coated red, must be removed from service by June 2019.

Figure 1, D.O.T. approved shipping containers. 
Figure 1

 

Torch lid and bottom of tank markings. 
Figure 2

 

Torch can internal mechanism.
Figure 3

 

Exploded diagram of internal torch tank parts with part numbers listed.
Figure 4

 

 

Reference

Equipment Bulletin:  ETC-EB-01:  Phase-Out of Drip Torches That Do Not Comply With US DOT and US OSHA Specifications (pdf)

NWCG Standards for Transporting Fuel, PMS 442

NWCG Standards for Ground Ignition Equipment, PMS 443

 

 

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NWCG Latest Announcements

NEW! S-219, Firing Operations (Blended) Now Available

Date: Sept 11, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Fuels Management Committee 

The S-219, Firing Operations (Blended) course is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal. Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this training supports individuals working towards Firing Boss, Single Resource (FIRB) incident qualifications.

This blended course combines online and instructor-led training to provide students with the knowledge and skills required to perform the duties of the FIRB, as described in the NWCG Incident Position Standards for Firing Boss, Single Resource, PMS 350-105.

Any changes to qualification pathways will take effect with the next update of the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications, PMS 310-1, scheduled for January 2026.

References:

S-219, Firing Operations (Blended)

NWCG Firing Boss, Single Resource Position Page

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

NWCG Committees Observe Suicide Prevention Awareness Week: September 7-13, 2025

Date: Sep 5, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Mental Health Subcommittee

The NWCG Mental Health Subcommittee (MHSC) and Risk Management Committee (RMC) recognize the unique challenges and demands faced by the wildland fire community. The MHSC and RMC know that we are all stronger together and believe in fostering a culture of support, understanding, and resilience.

Suicide Prevention Awareness encourages us to actively connect with and support each other. For more information that could make a difference for yourself or someone else please review the materials and resources provided for the 2025 Suicide Prevention Awareness Week.

References:

2025 Suicide Prevention Awareness Week Materials and Resources

NEW! Incident Performance and Training Modernization Story Map Now Available

Date: Aug 26, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
National Wildfire Coordinating Group

NWCG is excited to announce the launch of the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) Story Map, a new interactive resource that showcases how NWCG is transforming wildland fire training and qualifications through a performance-based system.

Since its launch in 2023, IPTM has made major strides in updating how we manage incident positions:

  • 36 incident positions now have new Incident Position Standards and Next Generation Position Task Books available for field use
  • 6 more incident positions are nearing completion
  • 111 total incident positions are being analyzed through the IPTM initiative

The Story Map guides you through the IPTM process, highlights key accomplishments, and outlines what’s ahead. Whether you are a trainer or a trainee, this tool offers valuable insight into the modernization effort shaping the future of wildland fire training and qualifications.

This effort would not be possible without the contributions of NWCG staff, NWCG committees, and hundreds of subject matter experts across the wildland fire community.

References:

IPTM Story Map

Incident Performance and Training Modernization Webpage

NEW! S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended) Available Now

Date: Aug 15, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Fire Behavior Subcommittee

NWCG is excited to announce that the S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended) training is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal. S-290 (Blended) training combines online training and instructor-led training components that support individuals working towards any Single Resource Boss or Fire Effects Monitor incident qualifications.

This second course in the series collectively serves to develop fire behavior prediction knowledge and skills, and provides more detailed information on fuels, weather, and topography that affect wildland fire behavior for safety purposes.

Students are required to finish the prerequisite S-190, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior, before enrolling in S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended).

References:

S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended)

S-190, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior

Wildland Fire Learning Portal