BLM ATV BLM ATV Drip Torch ModuleDrip Torch Module

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Module ObjectivesModule Objectives

Provide a basic overview of ATV drip torch policy and procedures.

Identify qualifications of the ATV Drip Torch Operator (ATVF).

List the training and currency requirements of the ATVF.

Provide specifications of ATV drip torch firing equipment.

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Module ObjectivesModule Objectives(Continued)(Continued)

List the proper personal PPE for operating the ATV drip torch.

List the safety items that need be on the ATV for torch operations.

Identify the ATV Drip Torch Operator duties and responsibilities.

Provide information on inspections of the ATV and firing equipment.

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Module ObjectivesModule Objectives(Continued)(Continued)

Identify specific parts of the ATV drip torch.

Provide information and procedures for operating the ATV drip torch during an ignition operation.

Identify specific parts of a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA).

Review Sample JHA.

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Module ObjectivesModule Objectives(Continued)(Continued)

Identify the capabilities and limitations of the ATV and drip torch during firing operations.

Identify external factors that may affect ATV drip torch performance.

Identify field training evaluation criteria.

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ATV Drip TorchATV Drip TorchIntroductionIntroduction

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The ATV drip torch firing device was developed to be mounted on an ATV and provides a method of igniting ground fuels, in a short time, on large acreages.

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The firing device uses the same standard mix used in hand-held drip torches.

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The ATV Drip Torch Operator (ATVF) can control the flow of drip torch fuel being applied to ground fuels from his/her driving position. The complete system is jettisonable by the ATVF in case of emergency.

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ATV Drip Torch Operator ATV Drip Torch Operator QualificationsQualifications

Must be certified for ATV Driving and ATV Drip Torch operations.

Must be a Firefighter Type 1 (FFT1) with previous RX Ignition experience.

Must have had Fireline Safety Refresher Training for the current year.

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ATV Drip Torch Operator Training ATV Drip Torch Operator Training RequirementsRequirements

BLM ATV Basic and Advanced Training

Documentation of ATV certification, as required by agency

Familiar with operation of specific ATV drip torch unit

Completion of BLM ATV Drip Torch Module and a minimum of one successful assignment

Completion of the BLM ATV Drip Torch Operator Field Evaluation

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PPE and Safety EquipmentPPE and Safety Equipment

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Job Hazards AnalysisJob Hazards AnalysisComponentsComponents

Header box All boxes in the header must be

filled in. Basic Job Steps column

Briefly describes various tasks in an ATV operation.

Potential Hazards column Identifies potential hazard(s)

when performing the task. Safe Job Procedures column

Identifies safe job procedures to reduce or abate the hazard(s).

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ATV Drip Torch PPEATV Drip Torch PPE

8-inch, lace-type work boots with non-slip (Vibram type), melt-resistant soles and heels

Fire shelter

Protective helmet (must be DOT approved). The standard wildland fire hardhat will not be worn while operating an ATV.

Goggles/safety glasses

Hardhat

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Aramid shirt

Aramid trouser

Leather gloves

FM Radio

Additional PPE as identified by local conditions and Risk Assessment or JHA

ATV Drip Torch PPEATV Drip Torch PPE(Continued)(Continued)

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Fire extinguisher not mounted on torch but easily accessible in event of a rollover, minimum size of 2A 10 B:C extinguisher

Standard Individual Firefighter First Aid Kit

Standard ATV Tool Kit

Hand tool for shelter deployment or firefighting

ATV Safety ItemsATV Safety Items

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ATV drip torch tank will be empty prior to unloading or loading into pickup beds or trailers due to weight and balance issues.

ATV Safety ItemsATV Safety ItemsTo be Considered Before OperationsTo be Considered Before Operations

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Whether a pickup or a trailer is used, the ATV must be securely tied down. Ratchet-type nylon straps are recommended. ATV brakes will be locked and the transmission should be in first gear or park during transportation.

Safety Items . . .Safety Items . . .(Continued)(Continued)

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The ATV Drip Torch will not be permanently affixed to the ATV. It will be mounted in a fashion that allows the operator to rapidly jettison the ATV drip torch during a malfunction.

Safety Items . . .Safety Items . . .(Continued)(Continued)

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Safety Items . . .Safety Items . . .(Continued)(Continued)

A completed JHA or Risk Assessment is required for operating an ATV drip torch. Supervisors and appropriate line managers must ensure that established JHA or Risk Assessment are reviewed and signed prior to any ATV Drip Torch Operation or at the beginning of the fire season.

It is recommended that ATV drip torch ignition operations be performed with two ATV’s and operators, one ATV with drip torch and operator and a second ATV and operator for safety over site.

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CommunicationsCommunications

The ATV Drip Torch Operator shall have a direct communications link (portable radio) with the Firing Leader, Firing Boss and/or Burn Boss. Helmet headsets attached to radios are ideal; however, the best alternative is a radio carried in a chest pack. The chest pack makes the radio more audible than when carried on a belt at the waist.

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ATV Firing OrganizationATV Firing Organization

Prescribed/Wildland fire positions that the ATV Drip Torch Operator (ATVF) may work for include: Prescribed Burn Boss (RXB1 or 2) Firing Leader (FIRL) Firing Boss (FIRB)

The ATVF works directly for these positions.

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ATV Drip Torch Operator Duties and ATV Drip Torch Operator Duties and Responsibilities Responsibilities

Perform a pre-burn inspection of ATV and torch – using checklists.

Correctly install torch and safety equipment on ATV.

Fuel torch in accordance with BLM Fuel handling policy.

Participate in discussion of ATV Drip Torch operations during pre-burn briefing.

Maintain safe distance and contact with other ignition personal.

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ATV Drip Torch OperatorATV Drip Torch Operator Duties and Duties and ResponsibilitiesResponsibilities (Continued)(Continued)

Maintain appropriate speed and safe operation while burning.

Properly shut down torch when necessary.

Correctly Load and secure ATV in transportation vehicle.

Perform post burn torch maintenance and

inspections.

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Fuel Handling and Fuel Fuel Handling and Fuel TransportationTransportation

All fuel handling will be done in accordance with BLM policy.

Fuel handling guidance can be found in Interagency Transportation Guide for Gasoline, Mixed Gas, Drip-Torch Fuel, and Diesel 0651-2806-MTDC.

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Mixing Fuel RatiosMixing Fuel Ratios

The mix ratio should be four parts diesel to one part gasoline.

For a hotter mix, use a mix ratio of three parts diesel to one part of gasoline.

Wear eye protection and gloves when pouring or mixing fuel.

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Read and understand the ATV Manufacturer’s Operational Guide.

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ATV Inspection Prior to Drip Torch ATV Inspection Prior to Drip Torch Firing Operations Firing Operations

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ATV Inspection for Operational ATV Inspection for Operational SoundnessSoundnessATV Inspection ChecklistATV Inspection Checklist

1. This should be done prior to any firing operation.

2. The checklist developed for the Basic ATV course should be used.

3. Make sure all items are checked, and if maintenance is needed, it is completed before using ATV.

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Read and understand the Maintenance and Operations Guide for the ATV drip torch.

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Where is our bridge?

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BLM ATV Drip Torch FeaturesBLM ATV Drip Torch Features

Pump mechanics (pressure system) for the ATV Drip Torch is an inert gas under pressure. It does not use a gasoline or electric pump.

There is no need for an electrical system or wiring.

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BLM ATV Drip Torch FeaturesBLM ATV Drip Torch Features (Continued)(Continued)

Torch has an easy jettisonable feature which does not effect the running of the ATV.

Torch can be mounted on most ATV’s very easily. Torch was designed and manufactured for ATV use. Roll protection for valves, gauges, tubing, etc

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ATV Drip Torch Wand FeaturesATV Drip Torch Wand Features

180-degree rotation

Interchangeable tip sizes

Flexibility and shock absorption

Check valve automatically closes when pressure is shutoff to prevent dripping of fuel

Expandable or replaceable for different lengths

Fuel line attached to the wand

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Ignition System FeaturesIgnition System Features

System Type: The drip torch fuel is ignited by a flame from a small propane torch at the wand tip, propane is supplied from a small auxiliary propane tank.

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ATV Drip Torch PlacardsATV Drip Torch Placards

The BLM ATV Drip Torch has placards that identify the various parts of the drip torch.

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ATV Drip Torch Operation Guide ATV Drip Torch Operation Guide (Placard)(Placard)

These placards are identified by a number and part name. A large placard called “Operations Guide” is also attached to the ATV Drip Torch which details how to operate the torch.

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Is it clean and operational?

Are all sub-assemblies with the unit and in good, working condition?

Is the unit mounted properly to the ATV?

Torch InspectionTorch InspectionOverall UnitOverall Unit

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Torch InspectionTorch InspectionFrame and Mounting HardwareFrame and Mounting Hardware

Check for cracks in welds or broken frame members.

Look for missing or loose nuts and bolts.

Check to see that all parts are with the unit.

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Torch InspectionTorch InspectionFrame and Mounting Hardware (Continued)Frame and Mounting Hardware (Continued)

Mounting plates are bolted to ATV rack and rack is secure.

Hold down connectors are in place, not broken or have excessive wear.

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Torch Inspection Torch Inspection Fuel TankFuel Tank

Check that fuel tank is secured to the frame.

Fill cap is in place with serviceable gasket and attaching chain is in place.

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Torch InspectionTorch InspectionFuel Tank (Continued)Fuel Tank (Continued)

Check that fuel tank pressure gauge is in working order.

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Torch InspectionTorch InspectionSupply LinesSupply Lines

Check that all connections are tight.

Check lines for breaks or crimps; replace if necessary.

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Torch InspectionTorch InspectionPressurePressure SystemSystem

The nitrogen bottle (tank) #8 (Pressure System) adds pressure to the fuel tank which pushes the drip torch fuel mixture out of the wand tip.

Nitrogen, an inert gas is the authorized propellant.

Use caution in handling or transporting nitrogen tanks.

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Torch Inspection Torch Inspection Pressure System (Continued)Pressure System (Continued)

Ensure nitrogen bottle (tank) # 8 is full and a spare tank is available if needed.

Check that nitrogen bottle # 8 is secured to mounting bracket.

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Nitrogen Cylinders Are High Nitrogen Cylinders Are High Pressure ContainersPressure Containers

WARNING: Care should be taken that nitrogen cylinders are used and stored in such a way as to minimize the risk of the tank falling over. With the regulator and gauge attached there is an increased likelihood of damage occurring to the cylinder valve should the tank fall. Catastrophic failure of the cylinder valve will turn the tank into a high-energy, unguided rocket with the capability of doing great damage and/or serious injury.

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Torch InspectionTorch InspectionPressure System (Continued)Pressure System (Continued)

Ensure that:

Pressure Regulator #9 connection to bottle is tight.

Regulator operation and pressure setting adjustments are made.

Pressure discharge line is connected to fuel tank and tight.

All gauges operate correctly.

Pressure relief #7 (opens at 15 PSI) is clean and operates properly.

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Torch InspectionTorch InspectionFuel System – PropaneFuel System – Propane

Ensure that:

Propane bottles (tanks) are secured in holding rack.

Bottles are capped when not in use.

All connections are tight and valves are off.

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Torch InspectionTorch InspectionWandWand

Wand swivel mount

Break-away lock and pad

Propane line

Drip torchfuel line

Flame shield

PropaneIgniter #

6

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Ensure that:

Propane igniter #6 is mounted properly and is securely attached to wand.

All line connections—both fuel and propane—are tight.

Torch InspectionTorch InspectionWand (Continued)Wand (Continued)

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Torch Inspection Torch Inspection Wand (Continued)Wand (Continued)

Ensure that:

Break-away lock is adjusted to proper tension.

Wand is adjusted for length and angle.

Locking pin and clevis is in place.

Nuts and bolts are in place and tight.

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InspectionsInspections cancan preventprevent accidents!accidents!

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Pre-Use OperationsPre-Use OperationsFilling the Drip Torch TankFilling the Drip Torch Tank

Shut off propane fuel at propane tank valve #4.

Shut off propane fuel at in-line valve #5.

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Shut off propane by pushing red button in at Igniter #6 on the wand.

Pre-Use OperationsPre-Use OperationsFilling the Drip Torch Tank (Continued)Filling the Drip Torch Tank (Continued)

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Pre-Use OperationsPre-Use OperationsFilling the Drip Torch Tank (Continued)Filling the Drip Torch Tank (Continued)

Close the supply line Fuel Metering valve #3 located next to the needle valve.

Needle valve can be adjusted to get the right flow at tip.

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Close the nitrogen tank supply valve #8.

Close the low pressure supply nitrogen-to-tank valve #2 at the top of the fuel tank.

Pre-Use OperationsPre-Use OperationsFilling the Drip Torch Tank (Continued)Filling the Drip Torch Tank (Continued)

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Bleed off any pressure in the fuel tank using the Pressure Relief Valve # 7 on top of the fuel tank.

Open fuel tank and fill with drip torch mix.

Do not completely fill tank; fill to about 90% of tank capacity.

Replace cap and tighten securely.

Wipe up any fuel spilled on the tank or ATV and properly dispose of rags.

Pre-Use OperationsPre-Use OperationsFilling the Drip Torch Tank (Continued)Filling the Drip Torch Tank (Continued)

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Pre-Use OperationsPre-Use OperationsPressurizing Fuel TankPressurizing Fuel Tank

Open the Nitrogen tank high pressure valve #8 at nitrogen tank.

Adjust the Pressure Regulator Gauge #9 to 10 PSI using the tee adjuster on the regulator.

Open the low pressure supply Nitrogen-to-Tank valve #2 at the top of the fuel tank and check that tank pressure gauge reads the same as the Pressure Regulator Gauge #9.

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1. Check that the pressure relief valve operates properly

2. Adjust the pressure regulator to 15 PSI.

3. The pressure relief valve should open between 12 - 15 PSI.

4. If it opens it is working properly.

5. Re-adjust the pressure to 10 PSI with the pressure regulator.

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Pre-Use OperationsPre-Use OperationsAdjusting Fuel Flow RateAdjusting Fuel Flow Rate

Place a bucket under the torch nozzle to catch fuel.

Open the supply line Fuel Metering valve #3 located next to the needle valve.

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Pre-Use OperationsPre-Use OperationsAdjusting Fuel Flow Rate (Continued)Adjusting Fuel Flow Rate (Continued)

Adjust the flow rate with the needle valve if necessary.

After the rate is set, turn off the Fuel Metering valve #3 .

Remove the catch bucket and reclaim drip torch fuel.

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Torch OperationsTorch OperationsLighting the TorchLighting the Torch

Turn on propane at Propane valve #4 and at In-line Propane valve #5.

Open propane torch adjustment red button at Igniter #6 on the wand.

Operate igniter trigger on torch; when torch lights, lock trigger in place with trigger lock.

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Torch igniter is burning; we are now ready to put down a strip of fire.

Begin driving and open the supply line fuel metering valve #3 located next to the needle valve.

Torch OperationsTorch OperationsLighting the Torch (Continued)Lighting the Torch (Continued)

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Torch OperationsTorch OperationsShutting DownShutting Down

Close drip torch fuel in-line valve #3 (next to needle valve).

Turn off propane at the in-line valve #5 (below fuel in-line valve #3)

Unlock propane igniter trigger #6 on torch wand. (to extinguish propane flame)

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Care and Maintenance of EquipmentCare and Maintenance of Equipment

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Keep unit clean and operational. Wash exterior of unit with soapy

water to remove dirt and oil residue.

Inspect Frame and mounting hardware.

Check for cracks in welds or broken frame members.

Care and Maintenance of EquipmentCare and Maintenance of Equipment (Continued)(Continued)

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Look for missing or loose nuts and bolts.

Check to see that all parts are with the unit.

Mounting plates are bolted to ATV rack and rack is secure.

Hold down connecters are in place, not broken or have

excessive wear.

Care and Maintenance of EquipmentCare and Maintenance of Equipment (Continued)(Continued)

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TANK AND PIPING Check that fuel tank is

secured to the frame. Fill cap is in place with

serviceable gasket and attaching chain is in place.

Check that tank pressure gauge works.

Check that all connections are tight.

Check lines for breaks or crimps, replace if necessary.

Care and Maintenance of EquipmentCare and Maintenance of Equipment (Continued)(Continued)

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PRESSURE SYSTEM Ensure nitrogen tank is full and

a spare tank is available if needed.

Check that nitrogen pressure tank is secure to mounting bracket.

Check pressure control valve/gauge connection to tank is tight.

Check gauge operation and pressure setting adjustments.

Check that pressure discharge line is connected to fuel tank and tight.

Care and Maintenance of EquipmentCare and Maintenance of Equipment (Continued)(Continued)

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FUEL SYSTEM (PROPANE)

Tanks are secured in holding rack.

Tanks are capped if not in use.

All connections are tight and valves are off.

Care and Maintenance of EquipmentCare and Maintenance of Equipment (Continued)(Continued)

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WAND Check that propane igniter

torch is mounted properly and is securely attached to wand.

Ensure all line connections both fuel and propane are tight.

Check the break-away lock is adjusted for proper tension.

Wand is adjusted for length and angle.

Check that locking pin and clevis are in place.

Check that nuts and bolts are in place and tight.

Care and Maintenance of EquipmentCare and Maintenance of Equipment (Continued)(Continued)

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CONTROLS Check all gauges

operate correctly. Check pressure relief

valve is clean and operates properly at 15 PSI.

Care and Maintenance of EquipmentCare and Maintenance of Equipment (Continued)(Continued)

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ATV Drip Torch Operator should recon burn area prior to ignition.

Perform complete inspection of torch and support equipment (Use checklists.)

Include discussion of ATV torch operations in pre-burn briefing.

Document ATV torch use in JHA or Risk Assessment.

ATV Drip Torch Firing OperationsATV Drip Torch Firing OperationsPrior to BurnPrior to Burn

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ATV Drip Torch Firing OperationsATV Drip Torch Firing OperationsFiring OperationsFiring Operations

The Firing Boss/Firing Leader will not be the ATV Drip Torch Operator .

Change operators as needed to avoid fatigue.

Close the torch fuel valve and extinguish the flame when not actively firing.

Watch out for fire burning under wand when the ATV is stopped.

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When going over large dips wand can get hung up if it is in the straight back position.

Always use safe firing practices.

In thick brush or other areas with access problems, the operator should ride in and ignite on the way out.

ATV Drip Torch Firing OperationsATV Drip Torch Firing OperationsFiring Operations (Continued)Firing Operations (Continued)

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ATV Drip Torch Firing OperationsATV Drip Torch Firing OperationsFiring Operations - continuedFiring Operations - continued

Maintain correct position and speed during ignition.

When the operator dismounts the machine in an active fire area: Park ATV in the black or

other safe area. Turn off the torch,

extinguish the flame, and leave the ATV engine running.

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Provide LCES during torch operations.

Note natural and man-made hazards and limitations (getting stuck, rolling, terrain features, fences).

Understand ATV specific firing techniques.

Maintain situational awareness and relay concerns to supervisors.

ATV Drip Torch Firing OperationsATV Drip Torch Firing OperationsFiring Operations - continuedFiring Operations - continued

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Multiple ATV use: Maintain a safe distance between ATVs when igniting to

allow for reaction time if a problem develops. Maintain continuous communication or visual contact with

the operators on either side of you. Never ignite when another ATV is directly downwind of you. Never allow ignitions to trap other operators.

ATV Drip Torch Firing OperationsATV Drip Torch Firing OperationsFiring Operations - continuedFiring Operations - continued

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ATV Drip Torch Firing ATV Drip Torch Firing Emergency ProceduresEmergency Procedures

Don’t let accidents happen to you !

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Emergency ProceduresEmergency Procedures

Provide for personal safety first. If ATV is stuck, stalled, or rolled:

Notify others of your situation. Request help. Halt further ignition. Extinguish flame. Extinguish fire near machine using hand tool.

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Emergency ProceduresEmergency Procedures(Continued)(Continued)

If torch catches fire: Try to extinguish the fire. If practical, jettison machine and drive away from torch. If torch cannot be jettisoned, abandon ATV/torch and leave

area immediately. Notify others of your situation.

Know your escape routes and safety zones.

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During firing operations using this ATV with a drip torch, the ATV became stuck in the mud; the operator had to abandon the vehicle as the fire approached.

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ATV Drip Torch OperatorATV Drip Torch Operator Field EvaluationField Evaluation

Will be completed on each student going through the ATV Drip Torch Module and field work.

The Field Evaluation Check Sheet is documentation of knowledge and operational awareness of the ATV drip torch.

Completed ATV Drip Torch Operator Field Evaluation will be kept in employees training file.

In any project whererisk exists, proper contingency planningwill reduce or helpmanage risk.

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Always remember there are three Always remember there are three types of ATV Drip Torch Operatorstypes of ATV Drip Torch Operators ::

Those that can count.

Those that can’t.

Any Questions??

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Is this a safe operation?Is this a safe operation?

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Module ObjectivesModule Objectives

Provide a basic overview of ATV drip torch policy and procedures.

Identify qualifications of the ATV Drip Torch Operator (ATVF).

List the training and currency requirements of the ATVF.

Provide specifications of ATV drip torch firing equipment.

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Module ObjectivesModule Objectives(Continued)(Continued)

List the proper personal PPE for operating the ATV drip torch.

List the safety items that need be on the ATV for torch operations.

Identify the ATV Drip Torch Operator duties and responsibilities.

Provide information on inspections of ATV and the firing equipment.

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Module ObjectivesModule Objectives(Continued)(Continued)

Identify specific parts of the ATV drip torch.

Provide information and procedures for operating the ATV drip torch during an ignition operation.

Identify specific parts of a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA).

Review Sample JHA.

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Module ObjectivesModule Objectives(Continued)(Continued)

Identify the capabilities and limitations during firing operations.

Identify external factors that may affect ATV drip torch performance.

Identify field training evaluation criteria.

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The End ~Be Safe Out

There!