|
|
TI Maintenance and Repair
6/2/2008
Its funny how we firefighters approach equipment maintenance. On the one hand, we want a new engine company, replete with the latest advances and features. On the other hand, we like keeping our crusty, battered fire helmets that have long outlived their protective capabilities. We will meticulously wash and service our SCBA masks after each fire, yet many of us must be forced to wash our turnout gear twice a year.
Because preventive maintenance and planning is not standardized in the fire service, the care of thermal imagers (TIs) has slipped into a gray area that fire departments must consciously plan to manage. A fire department must address regular care in order to properly maintain a TI and keep it in good condition.
Regular Care
There are a number of activities that must be done periodically in the fire house to ensure that the thermal imager performs at its best, for the longest lifetime possible. These company-level tasks can be divided into daily, weekly and monthly duties, depending on the activity level of the fire company using the TI. Key areas for attention are:
Daily, ensure that the lens, display cover and operating buttons are cleared of significant debris.
Daily, ensure that all batteries are properly charged and/or charging.
Daily, verify that all assigned accessories are present and functioning.
Daily, inspect the outer shell of the TI to identify any cracks or misalignments that may allow water infiltration.
Weekly, ensure all exterior screws are properly tightened and that all gaskets appear pliable and intact.
Weekly or Monthly, wipe the lens with a soft, damp cloth to remove latent soot and grime build-up.
Monthly, exercise the batteries, preferably with a battery conditioner/analyzer or by fully draining and then recharging them. Remember not to start draining the second battery until the first is fully charged for response to an incident.
Monthly, check all other items and accessories for the TI to ensure proper fit and function. This includes handles, hand straps and carrying straps. Test wireless transmitters, computer connections, image download functions, etc.
Equipping firefighters with TIs is a huge leap in the right direction, but this advancement cannot go unsupported. Leaders must plan for regular care and inspections in the firehouse, attempting to identify potential problems before they lead to catastrophic failures of the equipment.
Visit www.bullard.com and click on downloads to view and download a sample maintenance checklist for thermal imagers.
Article written by Johnathan Bastian
< BACK to Latest News |
|
|
|
|
|
|
