Vehicle Backing Procedures
Purpose
The Apparatus Backing Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is created to provide a safe procedure for Fire District personnel to back apparatus.
Scope
The Apparatus Backing SOP is created to provide the Fire District with a viable, safe, and consistent procedure for its personnel to back apparatus.
Responsibility
It shall be the responsibility of all Fire District personnel to ensure that the intent of this order be followed.
Procedure
Whenever possible, the operator of the apparatus should have a spotter to assist in the backing process. When using a spotter, the spotter shall stand ten (10) to fifteen (15) feet behind and to the left of the apparatus to avoid being in the direct course of the apparatus while maintaining visual contact with the apparatus operator by means of the side rear view mirrors. The spotter, as well as the operator, must be aware of obstructions and adequate clearance above the apparatus as well as behind and to the sides of the apparatus. The apparatus operator shall maintain visual contact with the spotter at all times. If at any time the apparatus operator loses visual contact with the spotter, the operator must stop the apparatus immediately and will not proceed until visual contact is regained. If visual contact is not re-established within thirty (30) seconds, the operator must set the parking brake and get out of the apparatus and make visual contact with the spotter. The spotter shall use clear and distinct hand signals to direct the operator. If any confusion between the operator and the spotter is present, the backing procedure shall stop immediately and the two shall verbally resolve the communication before proceeding.
Violation of this policy is subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination covered in the disciplinary action SOG.