NPS_Structural_Fire_Management_Program.pdf

National Park Service Structural Fire Program

RM-58 Structural Fire Management

September 2023

Signature / Date

Reference Manual Development Process:

The development of this reference manual was completed over a one-year period with the incorporated comments and input from all programs, park units and regional offices. Over 800 comments and multiple reviews were completed for this process. Specific credit to the National Structure Fire Program Office and the Structural Fire Leadership council for the dedicated focus needed to complete this effort.

The information within this document incorporates and supersedes all previous policies and policy memorandums. It supports industry standards and the adoption of the International Fire Code, updates to existing NFPA codes and standards, and National Park Service policy. The feedback provided helped to create a functional manual for the National Parks Service. Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) have been developed to better address operational related functions.

These functions are related to engine company management, fire extinguishers, International Code Council approval process, and others. The SOPs are updated by the National Structural Fire Program Office. This document and associated SOPs have been solicitor and tort reviewed by the Department of the Interior Office of the Solicitor. This document will be under regular review to ensure compliance with industry standards and changes in the Fire Code. This document has been reviewed and updated for 508 compliance. Future updates will be completed and approved by chapter as needed, following a similar process.

Your input and assistance in the creation of this manual has been greatly appreciated.

Shane Crutcher NPS Fire Chief

Approved by the Associate Director, Visitor and Resource Protection

Reference Manual 58: Structural Fire Management

Acronyms 1

Definitions 2

Reference Manual 58: Introduction 5 …………………………………………………...…………………

1 Governance and Administration 6

1.1 Organization 6

1.2 Structural Fire Program Objectives 7

1.3 Structural Fire Program Requirements 7

1.4 Authorities 7

1.5 Program Audits, Assessments, and Reviews 8

1.6 Responsibilities 8

1.7 Park and Regional Structural Fire Program Reviews 9

1.8 Essential Elements of Structural Fire Management 11

1.9 Structural Fire Program Job Descriptions 15

2 Community Risk Reduction and Code Compliance 20

2.1 Structural Fire Protection and Code Compliance 21

2.2 Responsibilities 21

2.3 Construction, Planning, and Design Review 26

2.4 Alterations, Additions, Repair, or Rehabilitation 26

2.5 Change of Occupancy 27

2.6 Day Labor Construction 27

2.7 Fire Safety During Construction 27

2.8 Tiny Houses 27

2.9 Wildland-Urban Interface 28

2.10 Leased Housing 28

2.11 Fire Protection Systems 28

2.12 Seasonal Shutdown 32

2.13 Fire Protection System Impairments 33

2.14 Fire and Life Safety Certificate of Compliance 33

2.15 Modifications & Alternative Materials, Design, & Methods of Construction and Equipment 34 ...

2.16 FCO Appeal Process 34

Reference Manual 58: Structural Fire Management (2023)

2.17 Inspection and Abatement Programs 35

2.18 Control of Hazardous Operations 36

2.19 Watercraft and Marinas 43

2.20 Emergency Plans, Building Evacuation Drills, and Crowd Management 43

2.21 Portable Fire Extinguishers 44

2.22 Fire Protection for Historic Structures & Buildings Storing/Exhibiting Museum Collections 44 ...

2.23 Structural Fire Management Plans 46

2.24 SFMP Requirements 46

3 Fire and Explosion Reporting and Investigation 48

3.1 Structural Fire Incident Notification 48

3.2 Structural Fire and Explosion Investigations 48

3.3 Responsibilities 49

3.4 Initiation of an Investigation 51

3.5 Investigation Type Descriptions 52

4 Structural Fire Operations 54

4.1 Responsibilities 54

4.2 Determining Structure Fire Operations Levels of Service 55

4.3 Levels of Service 56

4.4 Structural Fire Operations 58

4.5 Engine Company Park Program Requirements . 58

4.6 Fire Apparatus/Equipment Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance 68

5 Training and Certification 73

5.1 Overview 73

5.2 Authority Having Jurisdiction 73

5.3 Certification 73

5.4 Responsibility and Positions 76

5.5 Firefighter Certifications 77

5.6 Fire Protection Training 83

5.7 Certification Administration 83

5.8 Annual Training Plan 84

6 Health and Safety Standards 87

6.1 Responsibilities 87

6.2 Medical Standards 88

6.3 Periodic Medical Exam and Self-Certification 89

6.4 Risk Mitigation Waiver Process 90

6.5 Fitness Standards 92

6.6 Record Management 94

6.7 Mental Health and Awareness 94

7 Concessioners, Lease Holders, Permittees, Partners, and Others 96

7.1 Contract Development and Management 96

7.2 Reporting, Oversight and Accountability (Compliance) 97

7.3 Additional Assessments 98

7.4 Contract Holder Participation in NPS Structural Fire Management Programs 99

Appendix A National Park Service Fire Code 100 : …………………………………………………...…..

Appendix B Historic Structure Fire Protection System Assessment Matrix 102: ………………………

Appendix C Standard Operating Procedures 11 : ……………………………………………….....…….

Acronyms

Acronyms

ADVRP associate director of visitor and resource protection AHJ authority having jurisdiction CO carbon monoxide DO-58 Director’s Order 58 EICC Emergency Incident Coordination Center ECP engine company park FADO fire apparatus driver/operator FCO fire code official IBC International Building Code ICC International Code Council IDLH immediately dangerous to life or health IDT interdisciplinary team IEBC International Existing Building Code IFC International Fire Code IRC International Residential Code ITM inspection, testing, and maintenance LEO law enforcement officer NFPA National Fire Protection Association NICET National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies NPS-FC National Park Service structural fire chief PAI permit authorizing individual PAT physical ability test PEL permissible exposure limit PPE personal protective equipment PSFC park structural fire coordinator PSFPM park structural fire program manager RCR regional chief ranger RFPS regional fire protection specialist RM-58 Reference Manual 58 RSFM regional structural fire marshal SFMP structural fire management plan SF-OPM structural fire operations program manager SF-TPM structural fire training program manager SME subject matter expert WASO Washington Support Office WFF wildland firefighter

Definitions

Acquired Prop - A piece of equipment such as an automobile that was not designed for burning though it is used for live fire training evolutions.

Addition - An extension or increase in floor area, number of stories, or height of a building or structure.

Alteration - Any construction, retrofit, or renovation to an existing structure other than repair or addition that requires a permit by code. Also, a change in a building, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system that involves an extension, addition, or change to the arrangement, type, or purpose of the original installation that requires a permit.

Authority Having Jurisdiction - The authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) is a National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) term defined as an organization, office, or individual responsible for enforcing the requirements of a code or standard, or for approving equipment, materials, installations, or procedures.

The terms FCO and AHJ have the same meaning.

Contracts - Arrangements between two entities. These entities may include other federal agencies, private companies, or partners. Arrangements include agreements, partnerships, and contracts.

Throughout RM-58, the term “contract” is used to define these arrangements.

Director’s Order 58 - Director’s Order 58 (DO-58) supplements the NPS Management Policies (2006) by setting forth the operational policies necessary to establish and implement structural fire management programs throughout the NPS.

Fire Code Official - The fire code official (FCO) is defined in the International Fire Code (IFC) as the designated authority charged with the administration and enforcement of the code or a duly authorized representative. The terms FCO and AHJ have the same meaning.

Fireground - The operational area at the scene of a fire. The area at which the incident commander is in control.

Hot Work - Operations including cutting, welding, Thermit welding, brazing, soldering, grinding, thermal spraying, thawing pipe, installation of torch-applied roof systems, or any other similar activity.

Instrument - An instrument is a written legal document that records the formal execution of legally enforceable acts or agreements, and secures their associated legal rights, obligations, and duties.

International Building Code – The IBC is a model code that provides minimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safety and general welfare of the occupants of new and existing buildings and structures. The IBC is fully compatible with the ICC family of codes.

International Code Council - The ICC is a nonprofit association that provides a wide range of building safety solutions, including product evaluation, accreditation, certification, codification, and training. It develops model codes and standards used worldwide to construct safe, sustainable, affordable, and resilient structures.

International Existing Building Code – The IEBC covers repair, alteration, addition and change of occupancy for existing buildings and historic buildings, while achieving appropriate levels of safety without requiring full compliance with the new construction requirements contained in the other I-Codes.

International Fire Code – The IFC is a model code that regulates minimum fire safety requirements for new and existing buildings, facilities, storage and processes. The IFC addresses fire prevention, fire protection, life safety and the safe storage and use of hazardous materials in new and existing buildings, facilities and processes. The IFC provides a total approach of controlling hazards in all buildings and sites, regardless of the hazard being indoors or outdoors.

National Fire Protection Association – The NFPA is a global self-funded nonprofit organization, established in 1896, devoted to eliminating death, injury, property and economic loss due to fire, electrical and related hazards.

National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies - NICET provides rigorous certification standards and recognition of qualified technology professionals who reliably apply engineering principles and practices for the benefit and safety of the public.

NPS Prospectus Development Team - This is the team responsible for preparing prospectuses to solicit offerors for concession contracts by accurately assessing the risk and feasibility of the business opportunity to attract high-quality bids.

Park Structural Fire Program Manager - Individual with the primary duties and responsibility for oversight, management, and supervision of the park structural fire program with clearly defined succession of command responsibilities (e.g., park fire chief, PSFC, emergency services coordinator).

Pro Board - The National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications is an internationally recognized organization that accredits agencies to certify emergency responders to NFPA Professional Qualification.

Recapitalization - Replacement of critical component/system that extends the useful life of a capital asset, and major renovations without a significant change in function or capacity. In this definition, the word Critical includes all components/systems that extend the useful life of the capital asset, this is not tied to the previous NPS critical systems assets.

Residential Group R-1: Occupancies containing sleeping units where the occupants are primarily transient in nature, such as hotels.

Residential Group R-2: Occupancies containing sleeping units or more than two dwelling units where the occupants are primarily permanent in nature, such as apartments or dormitories with more than 16 occupants.

Residential Group R-3: Occupancies where the occupants are primarily permanent in nature, such as dormitories with 16 or less occupants.

Real Property - Real property means the land plus anything growing on it, attached to it, or erected on it, including man-made objects, such as structures, roads, sewers, and fences.

Rehabilitation - Any repair, renovation, alteration, or reconstruction work undertaken in an existing building.

Repair - The reconstruction, replacement, or renewal of any part of an existing building for the purpose of its maintenance or to correct damage.

Smudging - Smudging is the ceremonial burning of sacred herbs or resins.

Structure - Something built or constructed, as a building or picnic shelter.

Structure Fire Incident - A structure fire incident is a fire that involves man-made structures, such as dumpsters, boardwalks, vehicles, boats, aircraft, buildings, and/or alarm activations (except for alarm problems transmitting a ‘trouble’ alarm). This excludes any fires that burn only wildland fuels.

Structural Fire Management Plan - The SFMP sets forth the operational policies and procedures necessary to establish and implement a structural fire protection program in a park to reduce losses from structure fires. It provides guidance to assist superintendents, park staff, and contract holders with protecting people, property, and resources.

Subject Matter Expert - An individual who by education, training, and/or experience is a recognized expert on a particular subject, topic, or system.

Introduction

Reference Manual 58: Introduction

Reference Manual 58: Structural Fire Management (RM-58) provides guidance on implementing a servicewide structural fire management program for the National Park Service (NPS). The National Park Service's policy on structural fire is expressed in the NPS Management Policies and in Director’s Order 58: Structural Fire Management (DO-58).

RM-58 provides NPS employees with references, operating policies, standards, procedures, general information, recommendations, and examples to assist them in carrying out the NPS Management Policies and DO-58.

This reference manual supersedes all previous NPS instructions, requirements, interim policies, policy memorandums, and statements of policy relating to structural fire management.

The reference manual contains links to other pertinent information that will be valuable to personnel with structural fire responsibilities. This manual will be maintained as a living document and revisions will be made as necessary.

The objectives of RM-58 are as follows:

• Establish a framework through which the NPS institutionalizes and implements principles, codes, standards, policies, guidance, and reporting requirements related to structural fire.

• Identify the fire codes and standards that have been adopted by the NPS.

• Provide a framework for communicating the objectives and standards of the NPS structural fire management program to internal and external audiences.

• Re-emphasize that it is essential that structural fires be prevented and suppressed to protect life and property.

• Identify clear guidelines for preparing, responding, and recovering from structural fire incidents.

• Provide a consistent approach for addressing structural fire effectively and efficiently with servicewide programs such as Facility Management, Cultural Resource Management, Museum Management Program, Wildland Fire Management, Commercial Services Management, Law Enforcement, and Emergency Medical Services.

Chapter 1: Governance and Administration

1 Governance and Administration

1.1 Organization

1.2 Structural Fire Program Objectives

1.3 Structural Fire Program Requirements

1.4 Authorities

1.5 Program Audits, Assessments, and Reviews

1.6 Responsibilities

1.7 Park and Regional Structural Fire Program Reviews

1.8 Essential Elements of Structural Fire Management

1.9 Structural Fire Program Job Descriptions

1.1 Organization

The work of preventing and suppressing fires is focused on park employees. In most cases, the employee charged with the oversight of park structural fire management, the park structural fire coordinator (PSFC), has the duties assigned as collateral. It is recommended that complex parks should pursue the hiring of a park fire inspector to manage the park’s program with a dedicated focus. Park-level facility managers, cultural resource specialists, commercial services managers, chief rangers, housing managers, and others have specific responsibilities for preventing and suppressing structure fires. To ensure a successful structural fire program, superintendents must ensure that a structural fire management plan (SFMP) is developed as outlined in Chapter 2, Community Risk, Reduction, and Code Compliance, which clearly defines responsibilities and commits resources to the program. Once appointed, the PSFC must receive training as detailed in Chapter 5, Training and Certification.

Regions have distinct authority for the structural fire program defined in Director’s Order 58 (DO-58).

The National Park Service (NPS) director has assigned each regional director as the structural fire program's fire code official (FCO). The FCO is defined in the International Fire Code (IFC) as the designated authority charged with the administration and enforcement of the code or a duly authorized representative. The FCO is responsible for enforcing the requirements of a code or standard, or for approving equipment, materials, an installation, or a procedure. Throughout RM-58, the FCO will be used to reference the IFC’s definition of an FCO as “whoever holds the statutory power to enforce the fire code” and the National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) definition of an authority having jurisdiction (AHJ). The terms FCO and AHJ have the same meaning.

Within the National Park Service, the regional directors are hereby designated as the FCOs, as defined by IFC within their respective regions. The regional directors may delegate the authority of the FCO in writing to the regional structural fire marshal (RSFM) or other qualified individuals within their region as necessary for the administration of all structural fire safety and enforcement.

Regions are responsible for ensuring that park structural fire programs meet the requirements of DO-58, RM-58, and adopted codes and standards. All employees with structural fire responsibilities, must be adequately trained and certified, as outlined in Chapter 5, Training and Certification. Structural firefighters are required to maintain qualifications, and regions must ensure that employees engaged in structural firefighting are properly qualified and compliant.

The Washington Support Office (WASO), or national office, provides program direction and oversight of the Structural Fire Program through the associate director of visitor and resource protection (ADVRP).

Specific responsibility is assigned to the structural fire branch chief, who works for the division chief of fire and aviation management.

The Structural Fire Program develops policy, training, and certification programs for the NPS, including structural firefighter training and certification requirements as outlined in Chapter 5, Training and Certification. All firefighters must meet the program's requirements and ensure compliance is tracked in the approved format. Any training, certification, or compliance lapse will result in firefighters not being allowed to respond to structure fire incidents. The national office will also provide oversight of the regional inspection and compliance programs to help ensure all parks are operating safely.

1.2 Structural Fire Program Objectives

Structural fire management activities are essential to the accomplishment of the NPS mission. The NPS manages a structural fire program to protect people, building contents, structures, and resources from the effects of fire. Parks will ensure that structural fire management is fully integrated into all related program management and planning.

Structural fire management policy and procedures reflect the considerations, capabilities, and program direction while being responsive to related management objectives. Park superintendents will ensure these policies are incorporated into all structural fire management actions. All personnel must actively embrace and ensure the requirements are fully implemented.

1.3 Structural Fire Program Requirements

Structural fire protection and suppression capabilities will be maintained in accordance with the SFMP as outlined in Chapter 2, Community Risk, Reduction, and Code Compliance. Priorities will focus on structures and cultural resources with emphasis on the following:

• Life safety

• Code compliance

• Early warning detection

• Suppression systems

• Employee training and awareness

Refer to the structural fire program requirements within each chapter of this RM for guidance.

1.4 Authorities

Authorities for the management of structural fire within the NPS include the latest versions, editions, and appendices of the following:

• Code of Federal Regulations (CFR)

• United States Department of the Interior (DOI), Departmental Manual (DM)

• National Park Service Management Policies 2006

• Director’s Order 58: Structural Fire Management (DO-58)

• Reference Manual 58: Structural Fire Management (RM-58)

• International Fire Code (IFC), as adopted and modified in Appendix A

• International Wildland-Urban Interface Code (IWUIC)

• National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes and standards, where referenced in IFC

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

• Director’s Order 50B (DO-50B) and Reference Manual 50B (RM-50B): Occupational Safety and Health Program

• NFPA 914: Code for Fire Protection of Historic Structures

• NFPA 909: Code for the Protection of Cultural Resource Properties – Museums, Libraries and Places of Worship

• Public Buildings Amendment Act of 1988

• Museum Handbook

1.5 Program Audits, Assessments, and Reviews

DO-58 states, “Regional and park structural fire programs will be periodically reviewed for quality and effectiveness as required in RM-58,” thereby establishing the authority for audits, assessments, and reviews. Additional authority can be found in Departmental Manual 485, Chapter 6, Director’s Order 50B: Occupational Safety and Health Program, and OMB Circular A-123.

1.6 Responsibilities

1.6.1 Park Level- Superintendent or Designee

• Implementation of policies related to structural fire management. These policies may sometimes originate from other approved policies or practices, as noted throughout this reference manual.

1.6.2 Regional Level- RSFM or Designee

• Primary oversight of park structural fire programs.

• Ensure regional director awareness of park compliance levels using available data, park reviews, and other methods.

• Regions with engine company parks must oversee those programs and their structural firefighters to ensure compliance with laws, policies, and standards. This needs to be completed on a routine basis and during formal park audits and reviews.

1.6.3 National Level- NPS Fire Chief or Designee

• Develop policy and strategic plan for the program.

• Develop and conduct national-level audits.

https://www.nps.gov/museum/publications/MHI/mushbkI.html

• Review individual regional programs to ensure adequate regional controls are in place and to help regions understand their role in ensuring compliance.

• Routinely review compliance-related data systems designed to ensure structural fire operations programs and firefighters are being reviewed at the regional level and that corrective actions are taken when needed.

• Ensure all employees attending or instructing structural fire classes comply with laws, policies, and standards.

• Ensure all fires are investigated timely by trained personnel.

• Coordinate reviews and audits with regions to ensure the programs are assessed consistently and meet higher-level requirements.

1.7 Park and Regional Structural Fire Program Reviews

Structural fire program performance should be reviewed on a continual basis. Evaluations should address whether quantity, quality, effectiveness, and efficiency are satisfactory based on adopted codes, standards, laws, and NPS and DOI policies. Suggestions for improvement include alternative processes, new approaches or strategies, workforce adjustments, funding strategies, and/or changes in information technology. During all interviews, the review team should attempt to identify solutions to potential problems.

1.7.1 Authority

Program reviews will be conducted in accordance with Departmental Manual 485, Chapter 6, and DO/RM-58. The authority to conduct program reviews stems from 16 U.S.C. and DO/RM-58. The regional director will convene review teams to review park structural fire programs on a regularly scheduled basis or after the occurrence of any significant, controversial, or unusual structural fire activities. The national office also has the authority to perform evaluations.

1.7.2 Objectives

Structural fire program reviews provide comprehensive program management and operational evaluations. The involvement of line management and cooperators, where applicable, is critical. The objectives of these park fire program reviews are to:

• Ensure prevention and suppression operations comply with codes, standards, and departmental and NPS policies.

• Compile consistent and complete information to improve or refine the park’s structural fire management program.

• Produce a written report that contains an executive summary, findings, recommendations, and action plans in all areas of fire prevention, fire response, and, if applicable, park structural fire operations.

All reviews will be conducted as constructive critiques to determine the facts related to the specific program. They will identify commendable actions, techniques, decisions, and areas needing improvement. The regional director or their designee will forward the written report developed by the review team to the park superintendent.

1.7.3 Types of Reviews

1.7.3.1 Site visit

A site visit can be initiated by the park, region, or national office. This is an informal visit to provide a cursory review of the program. A simple observation of strengths or weaknesses within the program is conducted. Comments may be in written form to support future park efforts.

1.7.3.2 Staff Assistance Visit

A staff assisted visit can be initiated by the park, region, or national office to review programmatic strengths or weaknesses. The visit can focus on the program or on a specific area of the program. A written report will be prepared that will support the park’s efforts to complete a corrective action plan from the observations.

1.7.3.3 Program Audit

A program audit can be initiated by the park, region, or national office. An audit can pertain to the program or to a specific area of the program. An official report will be generated which includes a corrective action plan to ensure parks are able to meet compliance in accordance with policy and applicable codes. It is encouraged that regions conduct three to five park program audits each year. The cumulative data from these audits should provide the regions with a snapshot of the structural fire management within their regions. The regional director or their designee will forward the written report developed by the review team to the park superintendent.

1.7.3.4 Engine Company Compliance Review

Engine company parks are responsible for maintaining firefighter compliance data, documents, and accuracy within the NPS structural fire program’s approved data system(s). Parks shall upload supporting documentation on all firefighters to reflect all NPS Structural Fire Program and industry standards/policies including but not limited to:

• Firefighter certifications.

• Medical determinations for arduous duty structural firefighters or NPS policy accepted alternatives.

• Physical fitness assessments PASSING Physical Ability Test (PAT).

• Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) fit tests.

• Structural firefighter refresher certificates.

Regional structural fire programs shall oversee parks in maintaining firefighter compliance data. Regional program managers may establish controls exceeding the NPS minimum policy to ensure the compliance of all firefighters within their program. The cumulative data from these compliance reviews should provide the regions with a snapshot of the program compliance within their regions. The regional director or their designee will forward the written report developed by the review team to the park superintendent.

1.7.3.5 A-123 Audit

The Federal Managers’ Financial Integrity Act of 1982 (FMFIA) requires federal entities to perform annual internal reviews and provide annual assurances regarding all programs' management, accounting, and administrative controls.

Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-123, Management’s Responsibility for Internal Control, provides guidance on implementing internal controls in federal agencies. NPS structural fire management programs will comply with this requirement.

In the broadest sense, internal controls are necessary to achieve the objectives of effective and efficient operations, reliable financial reporting, and compliance with applicable laws and regulations. To comply with this process, structural fire managers must take systematic and proactive measures to:

• Develop and implement appropriate, cost-effective internal controls for results-oriented management.

• Assess the adequacy of internal control in federal programs and operations, including financial and internal controls.

• Identify needed improvements.

• Take corresponding corrective action.

• Assess compliance with governing fire safety codes and standards.

• Report as required on internal controls through management assurance statements.

While the testing and assurance effort will provide input regarding whether the agency’s internal controls within these cycles are correctly designed and operating effectively, it is also essential to develop a risk assessment process to self-identify changes needed for internal controls and subsequent improvement of programs.

1.8 Essential Elements of Structural Fire Management

The responsibility for structural fire within the NPS is the same for all regions, parks, and management levels and, with few exceptions, is accomplished through collateral duties. While there may be some differences within each region, the essential elements do not change.

A list identifying the essential elements for each position is provided. These lists are quick reference tools to be used in identifying the minimum essential elements for each position. Due to the uniqueness and complexity of structural fire management programs, other elements may be added.

Minimum required competencies are required by the Fire Protection and Prevention Series, 0081. These certifications can be found in Chapter 5, Training and Certification. The 0081-job series refers to the approved classification series from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) that covers fire protection and prevention positions in both the primary and secondary coverage for special or hazardous duty retirement. This standard was published in 2004 by OPM.

Essential Elements by Position

1.8.1 Director

• The director of the NPS is responsible for assuring every park of the NPS meets its fire and life safety responsibilities.

1.8.2 Associate Director

• The associate director of visitor and resource protection (ADVRP) is responsible for defining all federal requirements pertaining to fire and life safety in the NPS.

• Assures agency policies are clear and meet fire and life safety requirements across the service.

• Provides policy development guidance on the implementation of new requirements within the program.

1.8.3 Division Chief Fire and Aviation Management

• Assures fire and life safety requirements are communicated properly to responsible agency managers.

• Assists branch chief with tactics and methods to effectively communicate fire and life safety requirements to senior agency managers and servicewide.

• Support and advocate for the RSFM’s availability and involvement with various work groups, meetings, and committees.

• Promote and provide resources, funding, and support to the RSFM.

1.8.4 Structural Fire Branch Chief (NPS Fire Chief)

• Develops agency policy to ensure the agency meets its structural fire responsibilities.

• Serves as the agency’s senior subject matter expert for structural fire.

• Assures agency policies meet all federal requirements as they apply to fire and life safety and emergency response to structure fires.

• Assures that all structural fire position descriptions meet the responsibilities, training, and certifications needs of the program.

• Communicates and educates policies and directives to the field to ensure that policies are understood and implemented.

• Ensures all fire are properly investigated.

• Develops audit processes to evaluate region and park compliance with policies.

1.8.5 Regional Director

The regional director is accountable to the director for the region's structural fire management programs and activities.

• Remains current and knowledgeable of the goals and objectives of the structural fire management program.

• Becomes knowledgeable of the responsibilities associated with the designation of the fire code official (FCO) for matters pertaining to fire safety.

• Retains or delegates to a qualified person the administration and enforcement of the fire code as identified in the IFC as the FCO for the region. It is recommended that the responsibility be delegated to the RSFM.

• Assures that appropriate funding is available to ensure that the regional program is effective.

• Incorporates current and future structural fire management goals in all applicable regional planning and program development.

1.8.6 Regional Chief Ranger (RCR)

The regional chief ranger, or appropriate regional manager, directly supervises the RSFM.

• Remains knowledgeable of the current structural fire management program strategic plan.

• Remains knowledgeable of DO-58 and RM-58.

• Assures appropriate reviews and oversight of park programs is occurring.

1.8.7 Regional Structural Fire Marshal (0081)

The regional structural fire marshal (RSFM) is accountable for region wide program implementation, leadership, coordination, and management.

• The RSFM is the regional subject matter expert (SME) for all matters relating to structural fire. The regional director may delegate the authority of the FCO in writing to the RSFM or other qualified individual(s) within their region for the administration and enforcement of the fire code.

• Remains actively involved and engaged with the national program office regarding the goals and objectives of the structural fire management program for the service.

• Maintains an intimate knowledge of DO-58 and RM-58, and the strategic plan for structural fire.

• Reviews and approves park SFMPs and works to assure parks are complying with all elements of the plan.

• Ensures new information or information regarding the modification of structural fire program standards are distributed to all parks within the region.

• Provides technical support for parks within the region.

• Notifies the national office of regional structural fire related incidents, problems, conflicts, or deficiencies.

• Assures proper reporting of structural fire incidents.

1.8.8 Park Superintendent

The park superintendent is responsible for the park’s structure fire program and must take appropriate actions necessary to ensure life safety and do all that is possible and reasonable to prevent fires.

• Remains knowledgeable of DO-58 and RM-58.

• Appoints in writing a park structural fire coordinator (PSFC) and makes the individual known to the RSFM.

• Ensures that an SFMP is developed, current, and implemented in accordance with

RM-58.

• Ensures life safety and fire risk assessments in all park structures that pose a fire and life safety, or resource threat have been completed and projects developed and funded to address identified deficiencies.

• Ensures all fixed fire protection systems are inspected and tested annually and invoice and inspection reports are kept on file.

• Ensures approved agreements are in place, if the park relies on local agencies to provide fire suppression or fire protection services.

• Ensures a qualified person conducts fire and life safety inspections in all NPS and commercial services managed facilities annually. Inspection results are filed with the PSFC and/or the park commercial services office.

• Convenes and participates in an annual structural fire meeting that focuses on the state of structure fire in the park. This is an opportunity to check compliance with the A-123 internal control assessment, DO-58 and RM-58, and safe engine company operations, if applicable, and, most importantly, to understand and make priorities for known structural fire deficiencies and tasks.

• Ensure that employees, interns, volunteers, and partners have received an appropriate level of training in structural fire prevention and the proper response to fires and related events

• Conducts an annual review of the SFMP.

• Assures the PSFC is meeting their responsibilities.

• Ensures that positions within the program are filled by qualified personnel to meet the needs of the program.

• Assures that appropriate funding is available to ensure that the park program is effective.

1.8.9 Park Facility Maintenance Chief

• Ensures all fire detection and suppression systems are inspected, tested, and maintained (ITM) in accordance with RM-58, applicable codes and standards, and industry requirements/guidelines by personnel who are properly trained and certified.

Park facility maintenance chiefs should consider resource pooling with other parks and the region to accomplish these requirements.

1.8.10 Park Structural Fire Coordinator

The park structural fire coordinator (PSFC) is designated by park superintendent and serves as the primary point of contact within the park for structural fire issues.

• Implements a parkwide structural fire management program in accordance with DO- 58 and RM-58.

• Ensures the park’s SFMP is developed, approved, and implemented in accordance with guidance provided by the RSFM and RM-58.

• Ensures the structural fire program is integrated with other park programs and divisions as appropriate.

• Ensures that information and issues regarding the park structural fire program are coordinated with the RSFM.

• Attends and completes approved PSFC training within one year of being designated.

• Coordinates with responding agencies to gain access and develop pre-incident plans for all structures.

• Ensures agreement(s) are in place and that responding forces are familiar with hydrant systems, building construction, collections within, historic status, and/or historic fabrics of the structure.

• Ensures there is a hot work permitting process in place in the park and it is followed.

• Confirms that all park fire protection systems are inspected, tested, and are functional.

• Confirms that all park staff have received periodic training in fire prevention and the proper response to fires.

1.9 Structural Fire Program Job Descriptions

This overview provides a general description of the NPS structural fire program organization and job responsibilities.

1.9.1 National Level Positions and Responsibilities

The National Structural Fire Management Office provides overall direction and coordination for the NPS Structural Fire Program.

1.9.1.1 Structural Fire Branch Chief (NPS Fire Chief)

The NPS fire chief is responsible for setting overall program goals and standards and for providing oversight of the national program. The chief serves as the agency’s senior subject matter expert (SME) for all areas pertaining to structural fire. This position also assures coordination with regional offices, ensuring that NPS policies and procedures address the unique and specific needs of each region to the extent possible. Ensures that all fires are investigated, and fire trends are shared agencywide. Provides annual state of the structural fire service report to the Director on the current readiness of responders, protection of our structures, and how well we are meeting compliance of agency policy.

1.9.1.2 National Structural Fire Prevention Officer (0081)

This position reports directly to the NPS fire chief and is responsible for setting servicewide fire prevention policies and goals. Responsibilities include developing policies for the inspection, testing, and maintenance of fire detection and suppression systems; developing policies for annual fire inspections; and developing strategies to protect resources, while maintaining the historic integrity of structures and developing servicewide structural fire prevention and education plans.

1.9.1.3 National Structural Fire Operations Officer (0081)

This position reports directly to the NPS fire chief and is responsible for setting servicewide structural fire operations and readiness policies and goals.

Responsibilities include establishing policies for parks with structural fire response capabilities that meet or exceed the requirements of NFPA and OSHA for emergency first responders. This position also identifies needed training and certification criteria for all parks that maintain response capabilities. Develops organization charts for the staffing guide for structural fire. Creates and maintains position descriptions for all structural fire related positions in the NPS. Maintains fire response data for the agency directly supports to investigation of all fires in the NPS.

1.9.1.4 National Structural Fire Training Officer (0081)

This position reports directly to the NPS fire chief and is responsible for setting servicewide structural fire training, and certification policies and goals.

Responsibilities include establishing policies for training requirements, identifying curriculum, managing the agency accreditation program, and overseeing the agency training and certification for the structural fire program.

This position also establishes training and certification criteria for all parks that maintain response capabilities.

1.9.1.5 Denver Service Center Positions and Responsibilities

Fire Protection Engineer (FPE) The FPE is a licensed professional engineer who demonstrates sound knowledge and judgment in the application of science and engineering to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public, resource and property protection from the impacts of fire. The FPE provides technical guidance and oversight regarding fire protection issues to the RSFM and the national office.

1.9.2 Regional Level Positions and Responsibilities

1.9.2.1 Regional Director

The regional director is the FCO for all matters pertaining to structural fire safety in their region. The regional director may delegate the FCO duties to the RSFM.

1.9.2.2 Regional Structural Fire Marshal (RSFM) (0081)

Each region will have a RSFM assigned to carry out the day-to-day duties of overseeing the regional structural fire protection programs. As the delegated

FCO, they are the regional SME and they have oversight and responsibility for all structural fire matters within the region.

1.9.2.3 Regional Fire Protection Specialist (RFPS) (0081)

This position reports directly to the RSFM. This position serves as a deputy fire marshal in direct support of the RSFM. The RFPS can be appointed FCO responsibilities to support the fulfillment of assigned duties. Provides technical assistance to park management for project reviews, fire and life safety building inspections, fire protection systems, engine company operations, firefighter training, and final acceptance testing of new systems.

1.9.2.4 Regional Fire Protection Engineer (RFPE)

The RFPE is a licensed professional engineer who demonstrates sound knowledge and judgment in the application of science and engineering to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public, resource, and property protection, from the impacts of fire. The RFPE provides technical guidance and oversight regarding fire protection issues to the RSFM and regional director.

1.9.3 Park Level Positions and Responsibilities

1.9.3.1 Park Superintendent

The park superintendent is responsible for the park’s structural fire program, the creation and upkeep of the park’s SFMP and park compliance with NPS policy on structural fire management. The superintendent will appoint in writing a park structural fire coordinator. Should the superintendent desire the PSFC to have FCO authority, they will request this from the regional FCO.

In Level Three Engine Company Parks (ECPs), the park superintendent shall hire an 0081 park structural fire chief appropriately graded based on the program complexity identified by the NPS Structural Fire Program and RSFMs. The superintendent of an existing ECP, without an 0081 park structural fire chief, shall hire an appropriate 0081 no later than September 30, 2024.

1.9.3.2 Park Structural Fire Chief (0081)

This position is only found in parks that maintain structural fire engine companies as first responders. This position must have experience in structural fire and program management sufficient to allow the development of structural fire programs that comply with applicable guidelines. They are responsible for ensuring the safety of firefighters and the effectiveness of the response. This position can oversee other all-hazard or emergency response programs as part of their regular duty. This person must be familiar with budget procedures, revenue sources, and funding mechanisms of the agency and be capable of creating program budgets that reflect the park’s need, organizational goals, and budget guidelines.

The park structural fire chief must accurately evaluate park fire protection systems and equipment provided for each of the park’s structures and facilities and determine whether they are appropriate and installed in compliance with applicable codes and standards. This evaluation should include ongoing observation of the structures, potential hazards, and fire protection systems. The evaluation must also identify and document deficiencies and report them according to NPS policies. The fire c hief must be able to perform code compliance evaluations for issues like emergency vehicle access, required fire flows, and hydrant location and spacing. This position must meet the minimum required competencies identified in validated position descriptions.

1.9.3.3 Park Structural Fire Coordinator (PSFC)

Each park is required to have a PFSC who is designated by the park superintendent. The PSFC serves as the primary point of contact within the park and ensures the park is meeting its structural fire management responsibilities.

Additional responsibilities may be delegated to the PSFC by the park superintendent. This position is mandatory for each park regardless of size or function.

Larger parks may need other positions in fire prevention or emergency response.

These positions are listed in detail below.

1.9.3.4 Park Fire Inspector (0081)

This position may reside in any park or a region, regardless of whether the park maintains a structural fire response capability. Responsibilities include reviewing new and proposed fire codes and policies, implementing a public education campaign for visitors, park employees, and other park partners to help prevent fires, and evaluating inspection reports, forms and checklists related to structural fire for completeness and accuracy. Ensure life safety and preservation of structures through a thorough inspection and code enforcement process. This person must be able to research codes, apply them to real life situations, document findings, and communicate the findings to appropriate personnel. The fire inspector must be familiar with applicable codes, agency standards, policies, and procedures, and must be able to ensure that information contained in forms and checklists is concise, correct, and addresses all pertinent issues. They must also be able to implement a hot work permit process and evaluate consequences of improper enforcement. This position can fulfill the duties as a PSFC as a normal job function. This position must meet the minimum required competencies identified in validated position descriptions.

1.9.3.5 Park Chief Fire Officer (0081)

This position is only found in parks that maintain structural fire engine companies as first responders. Park chief fire officers may act as the fire chief in his/her absence. Park chief fire officers should have some of the same skills as the park fire chief but may have less experience in some areas. While the park fire chief will focus mainly on budget and policy issues, park fire officers will be the primary on scene incident commanders for most major emergencies in the park.

Fire officers may function at the assistant fire chief level with emphasis on managing programs such as training, operations, or prevention, or as battalion chief’s level in charge of emergency response and structural fire programs in a park division or area. This position must meet the minimum required competencies identified in validated position descriptions.

1.9.3.6 Engine Company Officer (0081)

This position is only found in parks that maintain structural fire engine companies as first responders. Engine company officers are often the first fire officers on the scene of any emergency. Proper training and experience for these personnel will ensure an effective response that applies best practices and ensures crew safety at the emergency. The company officer is responsible for quickly sizing up the emergency, making personnel assignments, requesting resources, and taking direct action to mitigate the emergency. Engine company officers may also be qualified to conduct live fire training in accordance with NFPA 1403.

This position must meet the minimum required competencies identified in validated position descriptions.

1.9.3.7 Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator (FADO) (0081)

This position is only found in parks that maintain structural fire engine companies as first responders. The FADO must get the crew and apparatus to the scene of an emergency safely and in a timely manner.