CHAPTER 1 ‘GENESIS OF FIRE SERVICES IN INDIA’ · 1.GENESIS OF FIRE SERVICES IN INDIA ... the...

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CHAPTER‐1

‘GENESIS OF FIRE SERVICES IN INDIA’

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1.GENESIS OF FIRE SERVICES IN INDIA

1.1 The Kautilya’s Arthashastra (321 to 300 BC) containssome rudimentary

guidelines on fire prevention and protection. But the regular fire services in

India originated in the major ports and metropolitan cities like Bombay

(Mumbai) and Calcutta (Kolkata)in the early 19th century.The cities of Madras,

Delhi and some other important cities also witnessed the emergence of fire

servicesduring the British colonial rule. Regular fire services in India first came

up in Bombay (Mumbai) & Calcutta (Kolkata).

2.1.1. In 1803, the ‘Great Bombay Fire’devastated a part of Bombay and this led to

the formation of first rudimentary fire service in India under the responsibility

of police department. In 1850, the foundation of Bombay Fire Brigade was

laid with four steam engines mounted on horse drawn vehicles. A fire service

on a more regular basis came into being in Bombay in 1865 under the

Commissioner of Police and it was jointly managed by the government and

Municipal Corporation. On 1st April 1887, the Fire Brigade was separated from

the office of the Commissioner of Police and was set up as an independent

unit. In 1888, through the Bombay Municipal Corporation Act, protection

against fire became the obligatory duty of the Bombay Municipal

Corporation.The Bombay Municipal Corporation Act 1888; brought the

Bombay Fire Brigade underthe control of municipal corporation of Bombay

and also ended the hegemony of Police over the Bombay Fire Brigade. From

1889 to 7th April 1948; the Chief Fire Officers of Bombay Fire Brigade had

come from London Fire Brigade. Sri M.G.Pradhan was the first Indian: who

took command as Chief Fire Officer of Bombay Fire Brigade on 8th April 1948.

1.1.2 In 1822, the fire service in Calcutta was organized and attached to the Calcutta

Police. In 1861, the maintenance of fire engine establishment was transferred

to the municipalities. 1872, the Calcutta fire brigade came to be financed by

the Calcutta Corporation and suburban municipalities of Howrah and Garden

Reach. The Ware House and Fire Brigade Act of 1893; divested the

commissioners of municipalities of Calcutta and Howrah of all responsibilities

of control and administration of fire service and the control of Calcutta Fire

Brigade was vested with the police commissioner of Calcutta, with a Chief

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Officer as the head of the Fire Brigade Department. The Fire Brigade

Department continued to be administered by Govt. Bengal, Local Self

Government Department.

Before the 2nd World war, the Province of undivided Bengal had only two City

Fire Brigades viz., the Calcutta Fire Brigade and the Darjeeling Fire Brigade.

The latter was created and maintained by the Darjeeling Municipality under

the provision of the Bengal Municipal Act, whereas the Calcutta Fire Brigade

was established under the provision of the Licensed Warehouse and Fire

Brigade Act, 1893 (Bengal Act I of 1893), while the fund for the Calcutta Fire

Brigade contributed by the Municipalities, administrative control of the

Brigade vested in the local Self Government Department of the Government

of Bengal, who exercised the control through the Commissioner of Police,

Calcutta.

In order to meet the war‐time requirement during 2nd World war, Calcutta

Fire Brigade was strengthened with the addition of an Auxiliary Fire service,

the cost of which was borne by Government. In addition, a parallel

organization named Bengal Fire service was created by the Government

under which Fire Stations were established in densely populated and

industrial towns of Bengal. After the cessation of the World War II and

partition of Bengal, Govt.decided to maintain a permanent State Fire service

covering the whole of West Bengal and pursuant to that decision; West

Bengal Fire service Act 1950 was enacted. The employees of Calcutta Fire

Brigade, the Auxiliary Fire service and the West Bengal Fire services were

absorbed in the newly created State Fire service under the administrative

control of the local Self Government Department, now known as the local

Government and Urban Development Department.

1.1.3 The Madras city fire brigade was established in 1908 by the Municipal

Corporation of Madras.In 1949 the service was formally established by the

Government and during the post‐ war period,thefire service functioned under

the control of the Inspector General of Police as a separate wing of the Police

Department. In October 1967, the service was made a separate Department

of the State Government under the Director of Fire services. Since then the

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Fire service has under gone rapid expansion and today the Fire service

provides fire cover to the entire State through a net‐ work of fire stations in

all townships and District Headquarters of the State. The Govt. of Tamil Nadu

has also enacted the “Tamil Nadu Fire service Act, 1985” in order to address

the challenges of the increasing fire hazards and its modernization needs.

1.1.4 Delhi is believed to have had a fire serviceas early as in 1867, but the

organized form of fire service could take place only in 1896 under police

department. In 1923, the control of Delhi Fire Brigade was taken over by the

Municipality from Police department. There were two fire stations in Delhi

prior to the 2nd world war: one maintained by the Delhi Municipal Committee

and other by New Delhi Municipal Committee. These two fire stations were

amalgamated in to one service in August 1942 and brought under

Government control. After the formation of Delhi Union Territory and

Municipal Corporation of Delhi in 1958; the administrative control of Delhi

Fire service was again transferred back to Delhi Municipal Corporation on 1st

May 1958. Presently, Delhi Fire service is provincialized service under the

Government of the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi since 10th

November, 1994. The affairs of Delhi Fire service are presently guided by ‘The

Delhi Fire service Act, 2007’ and ‘The Delhi Fire service Rules, 2010’.

1.1.5 A national fire service was started during the Second World War in Great

Britain but no such national fire service was started in India. The need to

organize and improve the fire services in India was however being felt

following Second World War and this paved the way for setting up of some

new fire brigades in important cities/towns.

1.1.6 The growth of fire services in India during British colonial rule was therefore

episodic and abysmal. It remained heterogeneous in character and differently

organized. Another striking feature of this period is that the fire service was

not visualized as an independent agency / service. It first remained under the

tutelage of police department and subsequently moved towards the control

of municipal corporations.

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1.2 PRESENT STATUS:

1.2.1 It is strange to note that the subject of fire protection / fighting does not

figure in any of lists (i.e. Union List, State List and Concurrent List) of the 7th

schedule to the constitution of India. It was traditionally understood to be a

function delegated to State Governments. But by virtue of the 74th

amendment, the Fire services have been included in the 12th schedule of

the Constitution under the provisions of Article 243W of the Constitution

specifying it to be a municipal function. Therefore constitutionally speaking

the subject of fire prevention /protection is the function of

municipalities/corporation. The funds therefore provided by 13th Financial

Commission (2010‐15) for the fire services are through Urban Local Bodies

(ULBs). But the fire services in India are organized under State/UT

governments and municipal corporations. Moreover the thrust of Govt. of

India and recommendations of Standing Fire Advisory Committee/Council

(SFAC) is towards the provincialisation and formation of state level fire

services in the country. This anomaly needs to be resolved in favour of

provincialisation and formation of state level fire services in the country at

the earliest.

1.2.2 At present, the fire prevention and firefighting services are organized by the

concerned states, Union Territories (UTs) and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).

1.2.3 Fire services in Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, Punjab, Maharashtra, Himachal

Pradesh, Haryana and Madhya Pradesh (excluding Indore) are under the

respective municipal corporations. In remaining states, it is under the Home

Departments of the state governments.

1.2.4 Some states have enacted their own Fire Act, some have not. In some

states, it is called the state fire service, while in some states; it is called the

state fire and emergency services. There is no standardization with regard

to the scaling, type of equipment and the training of manpower of fire

services. In each state, it has grown according to the initiatives taken by the

state government and the funds provided for the fire services. Presently,

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the only fire services which are fully committed to the common public are

the municipal and state fire services.

1.2.5 In addition to the regular fire services, various other organisations /

industries; such as Ports, Airports, Defence, CISF, Power, Oil and Gas, Steel,

Heavy Engineering, Fertilisers, Chemicals etc. have their own firefighting set

ups(including their own captive resources), in order to provide fire

protection to their facilities. All of them have their rules and regulation

concerning fire safety. The Fire services of states/ULBs and firefighting

units of organisations / industries render mutual help / assistance in times

of grave incident of fires.

1.2.6 The state fire services have their own organizational structure,

administrative setup, funding mechanism, training facilities and equipment.

Somehow, the fire service in India has not got the attention it needs and

deserves. There has been very little planned and determined effort to

revamp it with a comprehensive developmental plan and adequate funds.

1.2.7 In view of the shortcomings in the fire services in different states of the

country and the need to upgrade it, the Govt. of India in 1956 formed a

Standing Fire Advisory Committee (SFAC) under the MHA. The mandate of

the committee was to examine the technical problems relating to fire

services and to advise the Govt. of India for speedy development and up

gradation of fire services all over the country. This committee was renamed

as Standing Fire Advisory Council (SFAC) in 1980. This committee/council

has representation from each state/UT fire service, as well as

representation from Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Ministry of Defence

(MoD), Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Ministry of

Communications and Information Technology and Bureau of Indian

Standards (BIS). The SFAC meets regularly on annual basis in different

states/UTs and deliberates on various professional issues of fire services of

the country. Major recommendations emerging out of SFAC deliberations

are submitted to MHA, Govt. of India for appropriate decisions / actions.

But its recommendations do not have any statutory or legal force; they are

only recommendatory in nature.

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1.2.8 The Directorate of National Disaster Response Force and Civil Defence

(NDRF&CD, Fire Cell), Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) renders technical

advice to states / UTs.

1.2.9 According to National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) guide lines,

the Fire service is one of the emergency support functions (ESF). The role of

fire service has become multi‐dimensional that includes not only attending

the fire incidents but also various other emergencies. The fire services need

to be converted into multi hazard response units. Accordingly the fire

service is required to be equipped with suitable types of equipment’s and

trained to deal with various emergencies/disasters.

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CHAPTER‐2

‘KERALA FIRE & RESCUE SERVICES

DEPARTMENT’

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2. KERALA FIRE & RESCUE SERVICES DEPARTMENT:

2.1.1 The Fire service in the state of Kerala was re‐organised in 1958 as per order

contained in G.O. (Ms). No.1406/58/Home dated 22.11.1958, and functioned

under the control of the Police Department.

2.1.2 The Kerala Fire services severed its umbilical chord from Police department

and assumed independent organizational status in the year 1963 as per

Kerala Fire Force Act 1962 (Act 20 of 1962) with 15 fire stations. In the year

2000 the Department was renamed as ‘Kerala Fire and Rescue Services

Department’. It is now extending emergency services to the people of Kerala

through 101 Fire and Rescue Stations spread through the length and breadth

of the state.

2.1.3 Kerala Fire & Rescue Department is basically an Emergency Service

Department, whose functions are multifarious and emergency oriented.

Besides emergency service function, it has Statutory, Regulatory and Advisory

functions also.

2.1.4 On the Emergency Service side, the prime duty of the Department is to fight

the fire incidents and rescue life and property from the danger, damage and

destruction caused by fire. Its emergency services are extended to fairs and

festival, VVIP duties, epidemics, industrial /chemical/environmental disasters

etc. The department mostly attends emergency rescue calls related to

emergencies like road accident, train accident, accidental fall into wells,

drowning in ponds/rivers/sea, building collapses, LPG and other poisonous

gas tanker leaks during transportations and other natural and man‐made

disasters.

2.1.5 The firefighting and rescue/salvage or similar works are statutory duties of

Kerala Fire service Department under the Kerala Fire Force Act 1962. The fire

prevention duties are governed by Kerala Municipal Building Rules 2013 and

Kerala Panchayat Building Rules 2013.

2.1.6 The stipulations regarding fire safety provisions to be installed in the

buildings as contained in National Building Code 2005 (Part IV: Life & Safety)

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are ensured in compliance of Kerala Municipal Building Rules 2013 and Kerala

Panchayat Building Rules 2013. The obtaining of NOC from Kerala Fire &

Rescue Services Department under the Kerala Municipal Building Rules 2013

and Kerala Panchayat Building Rules 2013 is a statutory requirement before

construction of any multistoried buildings in the state of Kerala.

2.1.7 The Regulatory / advisory duties of Kerala Fire & Rescue Services includes

issuance / submission of NOCs to the licensing authorities under the

Explosives Act 1884/The Explosives Rules2008, The Petroleum Act 1934/The

Petroleum Rules2002, Gas Cylinders Rules 2004,The Arms Act 1959 / The

Arms Rules 1962, The Kerala Places of Public Resort Act 1963,The Kerala

Panchayat Raj (Issue of License to Dangerous & Offensive Tradesand

Factories) Rules 1996and Commandant General KF&RS department Standing

Order No. 6/85 regarding safety measures for avoiding fire hazards in the

conduct of exhibitions and festivals etc.

2.1.8 The statutory, regulatory and fire prevention aspects of duties also comprises

the advisory role of the Kerala Fire & Rescue Services Department by strict

compliance of the guidelines on fire protection measures for high rise

building, factories, places of Public resort and organizing of fairs and festivals

to ensure that they conform to regulations contained in various Acts and

Rules for fire preventive measures.

2.1.9 The growth of the Kerala Fire & Rescue Services Department has so far been

somewhat skewed and stunted. The incremental accretion in its resources

over the years clearly informs about the absence of any well thought out

developmental policy / programme guiding the affairs of the department.

The absence of clear cut policy prescriptions for its modernization growth

trajectory, restrictive budgetary allocations, out of synch procurement rules /

procedures, structural imponderables, absence of even organizational growth

especially at middle and senior supervisory levels, absence of adequate

investment in training infra‐structure and manpower and regressive internal

organizational culture are some of the important factors responsible for the

skewed and stunted growth of Kerala Fire & Rescue Services Department

thus far.

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CHAPTER‐3

‘GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT

KERALA’

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3. GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT KERALA:

3.1.1

1. Area 38,863 sq. Km.

2 No. of Districts 14

3 No. of Taluks 63

4 No. of Revenue Village 1478

5 No. of Municipal Corporations 5

6 No. of Municipality 60

7 No. of District Panchayath 14

8 No. of Block Panchayath 152

9 No. of Grama Panchayath 978

3.1.2 POPULATION OF KERALA (CENSUS 2011):

1 Total Population 33,387,677

2 Male Population 16,021,290

3 Female Population 17,366,387

4 Rural Population 17,455,506

5 Urban Population 15,932,171

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CHAPTER‐4

‘GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT

KERALA FIRE & RESCUE SERVICES

DEPARTMENT’

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4. GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT KERALA FIRE & RESCUE SERVICES

DEPARTMENT:

4.1.1GROWTH OF FIRE & RESCUE STATIONSAND EXECUTIVE / MINISTERIAL STAFF

IN KERALA FIRE & RESCUE DEPARTMENT OVER THE YEARS:

Sl.

No Year

No. of Fire stations

Total sanctioned staff strength

Executive Ministerial Total

1 1963‐1964 15 492 29 521

2 1971‐1972 15 495 38 533

3 1983‐1984 31 1250 89 1339

4 1984‐1985 37 1395 104 1499

5 1985‐1986 39 1617 104 1721

6 1986‐1987 41 1844 105 1949

7 1987‐1988 41 1844 105 1949

8 1988‐1989 48 2124 106 2230

9 1989‐1990 53 2297 110 2407

10 1990‐1991 54 2399 110 2509

11 1991‐1992 54 2399 110 2509

12 1992‐1993 54 2399 110 2509

13 1993‐1994 54 2414 111 2525

14 1994‐1995 54 2414 111 2525

15 1995‐1996 55 2607 111 2718

16 1996‐1997 55 2646 113 2759

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17 1997‐1998 55 2646 113 2759

18 1998‐1999 57 2714 118 2832

19 1999‐2000 63 2942 128 3070

20 2000‐2001 68 3034 140 3174

21 2001‐2002 68 3034 140 3174

22 2002‐2003 68 3034 140 3174

23 2003‐2004 70 3110 144 3254

24 2004‐2005 74 3262 150 3412

25 2005‐2006 80 3490 157 3647

26 2006‐2007 83 3604 160 3764

27 2007‐2008 83 3604 160 3764

28 2008‐2009 89 3720 179 3899

29 2009‐2010 89 3720 179 3899

30 2010‐2011 98 3898 200 4090

31 2011‐2012 100 3949 203 4152

32 2012‐2013 101 3973 204 4177

33 2013‐2014 (As on 15‐12‐2013)

101 3973 204 4177

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4.1.2 OPENING DETAILS OF FIRE & RESCUE STATIONS OF KERALA:

Prior to 1964

1 Chenkalchoola Not known

2 Chamakkada Not known

3 Alappuzha Not known

4 Kayamkulam Not known

5 Kottayam Not known

6 Gandhinagar Not known

7 Thrissur Not known

8 Palakkad Not known

9 Ponnani Not known

10 Thalassery Not known

11 Mattancherry 20.04.1962

12 Aluva 07.01.1963

13 Beach KKD 22.01.1963

14 Kannur 01.05.1963

1964 ‐ 1984

15 Kasargod 19.08.1964

16 Chakka Not known

17 Guruvayur 17.02.1973

18 kunnamkulam 06.04.1973

19 Piravam 07.01.1979

20 Thrikkaripur 04.02.1979

21 Kothamangalam 16.04.1979

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22 Muvattupuzha 16.04.1979

23 Neyyattinkara 30.08.1979

24 Irinjalakkuda 16.02.1981

25 Kadappakada 04.07.1981

26 Punalur 22.08.1981

27 Chittur 04.04.1982

28 Changanassery 08.10.1982

29 Malappuram 26.02.1983

30 Shornur 08.05.1983

31 Pala 15.03.1984

32 Kundara 20.03.1984

1984‐85

33 Perumbavur 09.04.1984

34 Cherthala 27.08.1984

35 Thirur 21.01.1985

36 Kattappana 26.01.1985

37 Thodupuzha 29.01.1985

1985‐86 38 Meenchanda 28.04.1985

39 Vadakara 22.12.1985

1987‐88

40 Kalpetta 10.02.1987

41 payyannur 24.03.1987

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1988‐89

42 Attingal 14.04.1988

43 Clubroad 01.05.1988

44 Northparavur 14.08.1988

45 Ankamali 19.08.1988

46 Vizhinjam 27.03.1989

47 Karunagappally 30.03.1989

48 Adoor 31.03.1989

1989‐90

49 Chalakkudy 14.04.1989

50 Pathanamthitta 16.04.1989

51 Kanjirappally 14.02.1990

52 Vellimadukunnu 19.02.1990

53 Munnar 06.01.1990

1990‐91

54 Thiruvalla 23.04.1990

1995‐96

55 Vadakkanchery (PKD) 05.08.1995

1998‐99 56 Erattupetta 14.11.1998

57 Perambra 06.03.1999

1999‐2000

58 Mukkam 18.10.1999

59 Kanhangad 31.10.1999

60 Mattannur 05.12.1999

61 Poovar 05.02.2000

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62 Varkala 09.03.2000

63 Mavelikkara 18.03.2000

2000‐2001

64 Alathur 02.06.2000

65 Thrikkakkara 02.08.2000

66 Koothuparambu 05.08.2000

67 Ranni 06.08.2000

68 Thaliparambu 10.08.2000

2003‐2004

69 Kanjikode 13.10.2003

70 Parassala 23.02.2004

2004‐2005

71 Nedumangad 31.05.2004

72 Perinthalmanna 22.08.2004

73 Mananthavadi 22.11.2004

74 Thrippunithura 01.12.2004

2005‐2006

75 Kadakkal 20.04.2005

76 Kaduthuruthy 18.08.2005

77 Pampady 18.08.2005

78 Idukki 21.08.2005

79 Chengannur 11.09.2005

80 Nilambur 15.12.2005

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2006‐2007 81 Kattakkada 03.04.2006

82 Kallooorkad 02.08.2006

83 Sulthanbethery 06.11.2006 2008‐2009

84 Paravur 30.06.2008

85 Peravur 28.12.2008

86 peringom 04.01.2009

87 Mannarkkad 27.01.2009

88 Vadakkanchery(TSR) 10.02.2009

89 Nadapuram 01.03.2009

2010‐2011

90 Uppala 17.04.2010

91 Sasthamkotta 21.04.2010

92 Kottarakkara 09.12.2010

93 Iritty 19.12.2010

94 Narikkuni 20.12.2010

95 Mala 06.01.2011

96 Puthukkad 06.01.2011

2011‐2012

97 Kuttikol 30.01.2011

98 Eloor 18.02.2011

99 Technopark 11.08.2011

100 Koothattukulam 17.12.2011

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2012‐2013

101 Seethathode 14.04.2012

4.1.3 The above information is culled from the annual administrative reports

available in the KF&RS headquarters and other random / informal sources. It

is amazing to know that the exact date of the opening of a number of fire

stations is not available. The KF&RS headquarters and every fire & rescue

station should have this important information along with the government

order sanctioning the fire station. The Commandant General, KF&RS

department should therefore ensure the availability of such basic information

in the KF&RS headquarters and in every fire station. In fact every fire station

should maintain a register called ‘General Information Registration’ in which

the copy of G.O. sanctioning the fire station, date of opening of fire station,

details of acquiring of land/construction of fire station building/shifting of fire

station, allotment of vehicles/equipment’s / stores and their condemnations,

abolition of posts, creations / up gradation of posts and development of infra‐

structures and educational activities including conduct of public demos can

be recorded in chronological order. It is always beneficial to have the proper

record of its developmental activities.

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4.1.4GROWTH OF MIDDLE AND SENIOR LEVEL POSTS IN KERALA FIRE & RESCUE

SERVICES DEPARTMENT OVER THE YEARS:

Sl.

No. Year

StationOfficer*/Assistant

Divisional Officer

Regional Fire officer*/

Divisional Officer

Asst. Director**

Dep

uty Director

Director( Admin)

Director( Technical)

Commandant General

1 1963‐1964 4 2 ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ 1

2 1971‐1972 6 2 1 ‐ ‐ ‐ 1

3 1977‐1978 6 2 1 1 ‐ ‐ 1

4 1983‐1984 10 3 1 1 ‐ ‐ 1

5 1984‐1985 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

6 1985‐1986 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

7 1986‐1987 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

8 1987‐1988 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

9 1988‐1989 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

10 1989‐1990 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

11 1990‐1991 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

12 1991‐1992 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

13 1992‐1993 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

14 1993‐1994 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

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15 1994‐1995 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

16 1995‐1996 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

17 1996‐1997 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

18 1997‐1998 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

19 1998‐1999 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

20 1999‐2000 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

21 2000‐2001 14 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

22 2001‐2002 14 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

23 2002‐2003 14 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

24 2003‐2004 14 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

25 2004‐2005 14 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

26 2005‐2006 14 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

27 2006‐2007 15 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

28 2007‐2008 15 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

29 2008‐2009 15 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

30 2009‐2010 15 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

31 2010‐2011 13 5 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

32 2011‐2012 15 5 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

33 2012‐2013 15 5 ‐ ‐ 1 1 1

34

2013‐2014

(As on

15‐12‐13)

15 5 ‐ ‐ 1 1 1

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* The Station Officers were earlier promoted from the rank of sub officers

and posted in the district headquarter fire station and also made supervisory officer

of the all fire stations in the district. The regional fire officers were the drawing

officers of all the fire stations under their control. The Govt. of Kerala vide G.O.(Ms.)

93/77/Home, dated 12th July 1977 (Standing Order No. 16/77 dated 1st November

1977)re‐designated the regional fire officer as Divisional Officer, Station Officer as

ADO, Sub Officer as Station Officer and Assistant Sub Officer as Assistant Station

Officer.

** The exact year of creation of post of Assistant Director has not been

provided by the KF&RS headquarters. It is presumed to have been created in the

year 1971‐72 for all practical reasons.

4.1.5The growth of middle and senior level supervisory level posts has not been

commensurate to the growth of fire stations in the state. There are only 15

and 5 ADO and DO level posts respectively in the state for 101 fire stations

and KF&RS Academy at Viyyur. This has resulted in un‐even span of control at

the level of ADOs and DOs. The 20th SFAC meeting held in 1978 had

recommended that ADO shall not have more than three fire stations under

his control. According to SFAC, ADO should be in charge of two to three fire

stations or four to six pumping units or second in command to Divisional

Officer or equivalent staff duty. Considering the SFAC recommendations that

ADO should be in charge of 2 to 3 fire stations; there should be at least 34

ADOs for the existing 101 fire stations in the state and one KF&RS Academy.

There are 15 ADOs sanctioned in the department. There is therefore clear gap

/ shortage of 19 ADOs in KF&RS departmentfor 101 operational fire stations

according to the SFAC recommendations.

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4.1.6DISTRICT WISE POPULATION COVERAGE BY EXISTING FIRE STATIONS IN

KERALA:

District Area (sq. km.)

Total Population

(Cen

sus 2011)

Population

Den

sity

Number of

operational Fire

Stations

Average

Population per

Fire Station

Kasargod 1,992 1,302,600 654 5 260520

Kannur 2,966 2,525,637 852 9 280626

Wayanad 2,131 816,558 383 3 272186

Kozhikode 2,344 3,089,543 1318 8 386193

Malappuram 3,550 4,110,956 1158 5 822191

Palakkad 4,480 2,810,892 627 7 401556

Thrissur 3,032 3,110,327 1026 8 388791

Ernakulam 2,950 3,279,860 1112 15 218657

Idukki 4,476 1,107,453 247 4 276863

Kottayam 2,208 1,979,384 896 7 282769

Alappuzha 1,414 2,121,943 1501 5 424389

Pathanamthitta 2,637 1,195,537 453 5 239107

Kollam 2,491 2,629,703 1056 9 292189

Thiruvananthapuram 2,192 3,307,284 1509 11 300662

Total 38,863 33,387,677 859 101 330571

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The state average of coverage of population per fire station comes to 330571

persons. The Malappuram district has the highest population average of 822191

persons per fire station.The Malappuram district has only 5 fire stations for the

population of 4,110,956 persons. The Ernakulam district has the lowest population

average of218657 persons per fire station. It has 15 fire stations for the population

of 3,279,860 persons.

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4.1.7NAME, NUMBER AND AREA WISE DETAILS OF FIRE & RESCUE STATIONS IN THE DISTRICTS OF KERALA:

Sl. No.

Nam

e of

District

Total Area of Dist. No. of corporations/ municipalities/Panchayats in

the Dist.

Total No. of Fire

stations in the Dist.

Area wise details of Fire Stations

Whether Urban /

Rural Fire & Rescue Station.

Corporation and Municipalities, if

any, not having any Fire & Rescue Stations in their jurisdiction

Remarks Urban

(sq. Km)

Rural (sq. Km)

Total (sq. Km)

Name of Fire & Rescue Station

Area* (sq. Km)

(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12)

1.

Kasaragod

1036 956 1992

Corporation:

Nil

05

Kasaragod 588 Urban

Nileswar Municipality

Kanhangad 448 Urban

Municipality: 03 Nos.

Trikaripur 196 Urban

Uppala 392 Rural

Panchayat: 38Nos.

Kuttikol 368 Rural

Total 1992

2.

Kannur

1370.81 1595.19 2966

Cantonment:

01 Nos.

09

Kannur 252.21 Urban

Nil

Thalassery 228.47 Urban


Payyannur 167.68 Urban

Kuthuparamba 652.81 Rural

Panchayat: 81 Nos.

Mattannur 244.42 Rural

Taliparamba 223.49 Urban

Peravoor 425.42 Rural

Peringome 320.58 Rural

Iritty 451.16 Rural

OMC‐KSJ Page28

Total 2966

3. Wayanad

2131 ‐ 2131

Corporation:

Nil

03

Kalpetta 686 Urban

Nil

Sulthan Bathery 727 Urban

Municipality: 01 No.

Mananthavady 718 Rural

Panchayat: 25 Nos.

Total 2131

4.

Kozhikkode

340 2004 2344

Corporation:

01 No.

08

Kozhikode Beach 387 Urban

KoyilandiMunicipality

Meenchanda 388 Urban


Vellimadukunnu 240 Urban

Mukkam 275 Rural

Narikkuni 201 Rural

Vatakara 394 Urban

Panchayat: 75 Nos.

Perambra 245 Rural

Nadapuram 214 Rural

Total

5.

Malappuram

203.64 3346.36 3550

Corporation:

Nil 05

Malappuram 935 Urban

Manjeri and Kottakal

Municipalities.

Perinthalmanna 526 Urban


Tirur 706 Urban

Ponnani 542 Urban

OMC‐KSJ Page29

Panchayat: 100 Nos.

Nilambur 841 Urban

Total 3550

6.

Palakkad

610 3870 4480

Corporation:

Nil

07

Palakkad 285.22 Urban

Ottappalam Municipality

Chittur 529.48 Rural


Kanjikode 265.64 Urban

Alathur 940.02 Rural

Vadakkenchery 253.15 Rural

Mannarkkad 1525.7 Rural

Panchayat: 91 Nos.

Shornur 680.79 Rural

Total 4480

7.

Thrissur

275 2757 3032

Corporation:

01 No.

08

Thrissur 350 Urban

Nil

Kunnamkulam 370 Urban

Wadakkanchery 290 Rural


Mala 187 Rural

Pudukkad 410 Urban

Irinjalakkuda 300 Urban

Panchayat: 88 Nos

Chalakkudy 720 Urban

Guruvayoor 405 Urban

Total 3032

OMC‐KSJ Page30

8.

Ernakulam

2082 868 2950

Corporation:

01 No.

15

Gandhinagar 70 Urban

Kalamassery and Maradu Municipalities.

Club Road 60 Urban

Thrikkakara 86 Urban

Thrippunithura 168 Urban

Municipality:

11 Nos.

Mattancherry 57 Urban

Aluva 140 Urban

Eloor 55 Urban

North Paravoor 187 Rural

Angamali 670 Urban

Perumbavoor 140 Urban

Kothamangalam 735 Urban

Panchayat: 84 Nos.

Moovattupuzha 135 Urban

Kalloorkkad 179 Rural

Koothattukulam 98 Rural

Piravom 170 Rural

Total 2950

9.

Idukki

2250 2226 4476

Corporation:

Nil

04

Thodupuzha 1050 Urban

Nil

Idukki 926 Rural

Municipality: 01 No.

Kattappana 1200 Rural

Munnar 1300 Rural

Panchayat:53

OMC‐KSJ Page31

Nos. Total 4476

10.

Kottayam

93.59 2114.41 2208

Corporation:

Nil

07

Kottayam 360 Urban

Vaikom Municipality.

Changanassery 420 Urban


Pala 350 Urban

Kanjirappally 450 Urban

Erattupetta 125 Urban

Pampady 230 Rural

Panchayat: 73 Nos.

Kaduthuruthy 269 Rural

Total 2208

11.

Alappuzha.

110.32 1303.68 1414

Corporation:

Nil

05

Alappuzha 533.74 Urban

Nil

Cherthala 320.44 Urban

Municipality: 05 ‐Nos.

Kayamkulam 202.87 Urban

Chengannur 129.51 Urban

Panchayat: 73 ‐Nos.

Mavelikkara 227.44 Urban

Total 1414

12.

Pathanam

thitta

66.37 2570.63 2637

Corporation:Ni

l

05

Pathanamthitta 1014.92 Urban

Nil

Adoor 327.16 Urban


Thiruvalla 332.52 Urban

Ranny 399.01 Urban

Panchayath: Seethathode 668.88 Rural

OMC‐KSJ Page32

54 Nos. Total 2637

13.

Kollam

300 2191 2491

Corporation: 01No.

09

Kollam 200 Urban

Nil

Chamakkada 180 Urban

Municipality: 03Nos.

Karunagappally 280 Urban

Sasthamcotta 360 Rural

Kundara 283 Rural

Kottarakkara 282 Urban

Punalur 345 Urban

Paravoor 216 Urban

Panchayat:

70Nos.

Kadakkal 345 Rural

Total 2491

14.

Thiruvananthapuram

214.86 1977.14 2192

Corporation:

01 No.

11

Thiruvananthapuram 85.14 Urban

Nil

Chackai 69.76 Urban


Kazhakkoottam 60.10 Urban

Vizhinjam 115.16 Urban

Poovar 189.24 Rural

Kattakkada 265.13 Urban

Neyyattinkara 211.08 Urban

Panchayat:73 Parassala 196.10 Rural

OMC‐KSJ Page33

Nos Nedumangad 336.02 Rural

Attingal 218.24 Urban

Varkala 231.17 Urban

Total 2192

It has also been revealed that areas of responsibility of fire stations have not been notified by the govt. of Kerala

at the time of opening of the fire stations. The fire stations are responding to the fire and incident calls on the

basis of proximity of fire & rescue incident sites to any particular fire station. They sometime go beyond the

district boundary because of proximity of the fire / rescue sites. The commission therefore recommends that the Commandant General, KF&RS should review the matter and send proposal to Govt. regarding fixing the area of responsibility of each and every fire station of the state within the territorial boundary of the districts. This is

necessary to avoid any confusion about the administrative and operational area of responsibility of the fire

stations. If some area in particular district is very close to the fire station of neighbouring district then the

operational jurisdiction of such fire station can be specified even beyond the normal district boundary if felt

necessary. But clarity regarding administrative / operational area of responsibility is always better.

OMC‐KSJ Page34

4.1.8FIRE/INCIDENT/ASSISSTANCE CALLS:

District wise Call details of Fire & Rescue Stations from 2010 to 2013 (as on 1st November 2013)

District

2010 2011 2012 2013

(as on 1st November 2013)

Fire call

Inciden

t Call

Assistance

call

Total

Fire call

Inciden

t Call

Assistance

call

Total

Fire call

Inciden

t Call

Assistance

call

Total

Fire call

Inciden

t Call

Assistance

call

Total

Trivandrum 857 1448 109 2414 926 1510 130 2566 990 1846 194 3030 886 1994 128 3008

Kollam 706 680 121 1507 607 817 129 1553 731 956 165 1852 906 997 129 2032

Kottayam 442 815 65 1322 454 790 83 1327 620 748 76 1444 510 970 82 1562

Pathanamthitta 227 345 44 616 185 386 61 632 276 458 48 782 279 520 42 841

Alappuzha 391 788 63 1242 404 741 68 1213 334 762 44 1140 375 743 50 1168

Ernakulam 1033 1265 180 2478 1115 1352 321 2788 1101 1311 174 2586 1195 1495 0 2690

Idukki 179 201 08 388 168 231 07 406 215 291 05 511 262 301 05 568

Palakkad 779 743 33 1555 641 869 43 1553 957 850 28 1835 1054 794 18 1866

Thrissur 879 775 28 1682 951 979 47 1977 1204 1092 60 2356 1133 1206 62 2401

Malappuram 441 330 23 794 406 327 37 760 549 321 34 904 583 395 51 1029

Kozhikode 627 638 76 1341 761 614 92 1467 821 740 92 1653 680 795 91 1566

OMC‐KSJ Page35

Wayanad 92 183 11 286 140 204 8 362 195 154 0 349 129 298 0 427

Kannur 542 568 29 1139 866 705 54 1625 994 720 48 1762 775 851 55 1681

Kasargod 313 226 07 546 620 319 09 948 711 287 22 1020 499 366 20 885

Total 7508 9005 797 17310 8244 9844 1089 19177 9698 10536 990 21224 9266 11725 733 21724

DISTR

ICT

Sl. N

o.

District and Fire & Rescue Station wise Call Details from 2010 to2013(as on 1st November 2013)

Fire & Rescue

Station

2010 2011 2012 2013

(as on 1st November 2013)

Fire call

Inciden

t

Call

Assistance

call

Total

Fire call

Inciden

t Call

Assistance

call

Total

Fire call

Inciden

t

Call

Assistance

call

Total

Fire call

Inciden

t

Call

Assistance

call Total

THIRUVANANTH

APURAM

1 Chenkalchoola 264 503 13 780 311 555 09 875 321 673 34 1028 260 620 12 892

2 Chackai 168 172 21 361 171 174 25 370 140 189 41 370 118 220 29 367

3 Vizhinjam 28 98 06 132 42 76 08 126 47 133 04 184 31 116 08 155

4 Kazhakoottam NA NA NA NA 18 31 09 58 113 110 27 250 72 111 18 201

5 Neyyattinkara 48 76 09 133 37 65 13 115 45 65 14 124 31 113 13 157

6 Poovar 18 46 09 73 09 45 02 56 12 45 02 59 11 55 05 71

7 Parassala 16 61 01 78 21 58 10 89 18 66 05 89 19 56 02 77

OMC‐KSJ Page36

8 kattakkada 44 71 06 121 42 100 13 155 60 126 09 195 54 167 04 225

9 Attingal 99 204 12 315 94 158 21 273 90 175 30 295 108 210 20 338

10 Nedumangad 87 143 26 256 74 151 06 231 60 181 23 264 87 194 10 291

11 Varkala 85 74 06 165 107 97 14 218 84 83 05 172 95 132 07 234

Total 857 1448 109 2414 926 1510 130 2566 990 1846 194 3030 886 1994 128 3008

KOLLAM

12 Kundara 101 92 03 196 38 81 08 127 77 82 23 182 93 104 20 217

13 Paravur 56 74 09 139 39 101 11 151 57 73 19 149 77 78 06 161

14 Kottarakkara 03 01 0 04 69 82 12 163 58 125 09 192 100 116 13 229

15 Punalur 109 85 05 199 77 90 03 170 76 109 12 197 94 144 03 241

16 Sasthamcotta 19 34 04 57 39 62 09 110 57 50 08 115 63 80 05 148

17 Kollam 154 148 54 356 137 139 56 332 194 219 54 467 175 145 43 363

18 Karunagappally 80 81 13 174 57 72 11 140 52 89 06 147 67 117 11 195

19 Kadakkal 98 83 0 181 60 120 09 189 74 110 04 188 127 129 12 268

20 Chamakkada 86 82 33 201 91 70 10 171 86 99 30 215 110 84 16 210

Total 706 680 121 1507 607 817 129 1553 731 956 165 1852 906 997 129

2032

OMC‐KSJ Page37

PATH

ANAMTH

ITTA

21 Pathanamthitta 65 92 07 164 55 106 24 185 69 145 14 228 82 149 11 242

22 Adoor 66 121 19 206 54 128 09 191 64 127 15 206 67 128 09 204

23 Thiruvalla 70 52 14 136 51 54 18 123 80 72 10 162 65 91 14 170

24 Ranni 26 80 04 110 25 98 10 133 58 88 4 150 43 81 05 129

25 Seethathode NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 05 26 05 36 22 71 03 96

Total 227 345 44 616 185 386 61 632 276 458 48 782 279 520 42 841

ALAPPUZH

A

26 Alappuzha 110 278 11 399 143 256 15 414 106 296 06 408 112 269 11 392

27 Cherthala 116 238 05 359 101 242 08 351 76 250 11 337 107 188 02 297

28 Kayamkulam 83 106 14 203 67 104 16 187 68 92 07 167 69 149 15 233

29 Mavelikkara 39 76 16 131 48 65 17 130 44 45 12 101 49 54 10 113

30 Chengannur 43 90 17 150 45 74 12 131 40 79 08 127 38 83 12 133

Total 391 788 63 1242 404 741 68 1213 334 762 44 1140 375 743 50 1168

KOTTAYA

M

31 Kottayam 143 183 05 331 163 135 30 328 190 174 12 376 166 184 24 374

32 Changanasserry 74 91 14 179 78 70 08 156 77 83 25 185 72 80 12 164

33 Kanjirappally 54 147 07 208 52 142 07 201 71 142 05 218 70 212 08 290

34 Kaduthuruthy 44 117 12 173 41 124 14 179 151 44 07 202 62 178 10 250

35 Erattupetta 31 49 06 86 27 38 04 69 36 53 06 95 29 60 07 96

OMC‐KSJ Page38

36 Pampady 30 105 09 144 30 139 11 180 45 117 12 174 48 108 14 170

37 Pala 66 123 12 201 63 142 09 214 50 135 09 194 63 148 07 218

Total 442 815 65 1322 454 790 83 1327 620 748 76 1444 510 970 82 1562

ERNAKULAM

38 Aluva 83 104 15 202 81 84 13 178 71 111 17 199 78 91 0 169

39 Angamaly 85 170 07 262 72 180 137 389 89 210 07 306 85 143 0 228

40 Club Road 97 95 21 213 129 128 28 285 109 113 17 239 98 126 0 224

41 Eloor NA NA NA NA 35 26 14 75 91 27 0 118 102 42 0 144

42 Gandhinagar 157 171 39 367 157 185 36 378 195 190 54 439 202 170 0 372

43 Kalloorkkad 30 68 13 111 18 64 11 93 20 77 07 104 24 53 0 77

44 Koothattukulam NA NA NA NA 0 02 0 02 09 10 19 27 78 0 105

45 Kothamangalam 54 72 06 132 50 91 07 148 36 75 05 116 57 81 0 138

46 Mattanchery 62 61 10 133 56 66 07 129 63 63 126 72 75 0 147

47 Muvattupuzha 49 128 18 195 54 101 08 163 59 92 04 155 49 129 0 178

48 North Parur 58 80 05 143 102 105 05 212 09 10 11 30 64 82 0 146

49 Perumbavur 101 88 06 195 108 76 12 196 91 91 06 188 78 124 0 202

50 Piravom 48 72 03 123 50 81 01 132 32 45 07 84 41 77 0 118

51 Thrikkakara 134 77 12 223 120 72 24 216 111 97 16 224 140 99 0 239

OMC‐KSJ Page39

52 Thrippunithura 75 79 25 179 83 91 18 192 116 100 23 239 78 125 0 203

Total 1033 1265 180 2478 1115 1352 321 2788 1101 1311 174 2586 1195 1495 0 2690 IDUKKI

53 Kattappana 35 36 0 71 19 33 01 53 53 39 0 92 48 51 0 99

54 Thodupuzha 69 102 0 171 76 118 04 198 71 160 05 236 97 172 05 274

55 Munnar 43 25 0 68 40 37 02 79 55 28 0 83 60 37 0 373

56 Idukki 32 38 08 78 33 43 0 76 36 64 0 100 57 41 0 98

Total 179 201 08 388 168 231 07 406 215 291 05 511 262 301 05 568

THRISSU

R

57 Chalakkudy 69 105 05 179 60 129 11 200 101 148 10 259 85 138 11 234

58 Wadakkanchery 88 55 0 143 70 72 04 146 106 84 07 197 96 113 04 213

59 Thrissur 365 295 05 665 403 348 10 761 432 362 08 802 378 360 10 748

60 Pudukkad NA NA NA NA 61 86 11 158 106 107 10 223 110 152 13 275

61 Kunnamkulam 188 145 07 340 127 136 3 266 152 155 12 319 159 145 10 314

62 Mala NA NA NA NA 28 52 01 81 42 64 06 112 48 69 03 120

63 Guruvayoor 112 77 04 193 124 63 07 194 181 66 03 250 164 80 07 251

64 Irinjalakuda 57 98 07 162 78 93 0 171 84 106 04 194 93 149 04 246

Total 879 775 28 1682 951 979 47 1977 1204 1092 60 2356 1133 1206 62 2401

OMC‐KSJ Page40

PALAKKAD

65 Palakkad 251 138 04 393 218 152 09 379 277 135 04 416 312 120 01 433

66 Chittur 106 103 04 213 63 120 08 191 128 127 03 258 193 154 03 350

67 Vadakkancherry 49 38 02 89 37 74 03 114 53 56 01 110 76 48 01 125

68 Alathur 86 57 01 144 61 73 10 144 102 70 07 179 120 66 08 194

69 Shornur 129 75 05 209 87 83 01 171 117 86 05 208 123 96 02 221

70 Manarkkad 67 44 04 115 80 60 0 140 106 52 02 160 74 74 01 149

71 Kanjikode 91 288 13 392 95 307 12 414 174 324 06 504 156 236 02 394

Total 779 743 33 1555 641 869 43 1553 957 850 28 1835 1054 794 18 1866

KOZH

IKODE

72 Kozhikode 144 131 23 298 194 140 27 361 209 153 11 373 161 138 28 327

73 Meenchanda 104 111 23 238 91 100 19 210 112 103 25 240 128 147 18 293

74 Vellimadukunnu 74 76 07 157 96 69 13 178 94 86 12 192 93 62 14 169

75 Mukkam 66 92 07 165 53 76 05 134 59 107 05 171 57 114 07 178

76 Narikkuni ‐ ‐ 01 01 43 36 07 86 58 53 08 119 46 54 08 108

77 Vatakara 113 101 07 221 121 81 12 214 134 99 8 241 95 127 04 226

78 Perambra 85 72 04 161 92 61 06 159 102 81 11 194 57 91 09 157

79 Nadapuram 41 55 04 100 71 51 03 125 53 58 12 123 43 62 03 108

Total 627 638 76 1341 761 614 92 1467 821 740 92 1653 680 795 91 1566

OMC‐KSJ Page41

MALAPPURAM

80 Malappuram 98 92 08 198 100 95 10 205 128 77 08 213 134 112 21 267

81 Tirur 80 94 0 174 68 85 0 153 121 68 09 198 116 97 09 222

82 Ponnani 97 52 01 150 81 43 03 127 91 53 0 144 121 46 04 171

83 Perinthalmanna 95 39 08 142 88 45 15 148 130 53 11 194 127 54 9 190

84 Nilambur 71 53 06 130 59 59 09 127 79 70 06 155 85 86 8 179

Total 441 330 23 794 406 327 37 760 549 321 34 904 583 395 51 1029

WAYA

NAD 85 Kalpetta 31 56 07 94 44 67 05 116 59 57 0 116 53 98 0 151

86 Sulthanbethery 40 60 01 101 65 69 02 136 91 53 0 144 53 101 0 154

87 Mananthavady 21 67 03 91 41 68 01 110 45 44 0 89 23 99 0 122

Total 92 183 11 286 140 204 8 362 195 154 0 349 129 298 0 427

KANNUR

88 Kannur 146 164 09 319 202 250 11 463 230 193 02 425 190 218 12 420

89 Thalassery 63 106 05 174 107 120 01 228 115 142 05 262 75 135 11 221

90 Payyannur 94 32 02 128 120 41 06 167 149 37 05 191 122 58 06 186

91 Kuthuparamba 50 55 09 114 60 67 09 136 59 68 11 138 65 98 09 172

92 Mattannur 43 49 0 92 70 51 12 133 66 50 13 129 41 52 07 100

93 Taliparamba 94 71 04 169 171 83 03 257 197 88 05 290 164 100 02 266

94 Peringome 28 22 0 50 60 25 0 85 89 33 02 124 48 43 04 95

OMC‐KSJ Page42

95 Peravoor 24 68 0 92 25 30 05 60 33 49 02 84 25 67 02 94

96 Iritty 0 1 0 01 51 38 07 96 56 60 03 119 45 80 02 127

Total 542 568 29 1139 866 705 54 1625 994 720 48 1762 775 851 55 1681

KASA

RGOD

97 Kasaragod 176 101 01 278 274 127 02 403 317 121 07 445 159 166 12 337

98 Kanhangad 86 68 02 156 139 89 02 230 125 70 04 199 110 68 04 182

99 Trikaripur 40 36 03 79 56 48 03 107 100 41 05 146 62 51 03 116

100 Uppala 11 21 01 33 120 40 02 162 123 35 06 164 136 47 01 184

101 Kuttikol NA NA NA NA 31 15 0 46 46 20 0 66 32 34 0 66

Total 313 226 07 546 620 319 09 948 711 287 22 1020 499 366 20 885

The above data clearly informs that the incident calls are marginally higher than fire calls across the state. We

should therefore gear up for equipping the fire and rescue services with firefighting and rescue vehicles /

equipments in equal measures.

OMC‐KSJ Page43

CHAPTER‐5

‘REVENUE EARNED BY KERALA FIRE &

RESCUE SERVICES DEPARTMENT’

OMC‐KSJ Page44

5. REVENUEEARNED BY KERALA FIRE & RESCUE SERVICES DEPARTMENT:

The Kerala Fire & Rescue Services Department also earns revenue for the Govt. of

Kerala by way of fire engine charges, standby duty charges, pumping works charges, delivery

hose charges, fire report charges,rental charges of ambulance services, fee for issuances of No

Objection Certificate to the residential, commercial buildings and industrial complexesand

NOCs required under various Acts / Rules like Explosive Act 1934/Explosive Rules‐2008,

Petroleum Act 1934/Petroleum Rules‐2002, The Arms Act 1959 /Arms &Ammunition Rules

1962, etc. The statement of revenue earnings during last five years are given below.

2008‐2009 325.16 lakhs

2009‐2010 350.17 lakhs

2010‐2011 518.34 lakhs

2011‐2012 467.03 lakhs

2012‐2013 433 lakhs

Total 2093.70 lakhs

The revenue earned during the last five years from 2008‐2009 to 2012‐2013 comes to

Rs. 20.94 crores. The above figures are obtained by KF&RS headquarters from the office of

Accountant General. It is suggested that the ADOs of the districts should maintain proper

account of revenue earned by the KF&RS department through various sources hereinafter.

The Commandant General, KF&RS Department should issue necessary directions and format

of register for this purpose and that should be reconciled with treasury/AG office account at

the end of every financial year.

Theserevenue earnings are going to increase further from 2013‐14 onwards as the hire

charges for various items of works and the rates of NOCs have been enhanced substantially

vide G.O.(Ms) No. 107/2013/Home dated 18/04/2013.

The commission therefore recommends that the revenue earned by

KF&RS department through various sources should be ploughed back

for the modernization, development of training infra‐structuresand

housing purposes of the KF&RS department apart from the usual

budget allotment of the department.This will help in expediting the

modernization pace of the department.

OMC‐KSJ Page45

CHAPTER‐6

‘THE EXISTING LEVEL OF

MODERNISATION: AVAILABILITY OF

FIREFIGHTING& RESCUE VEHICLES /

EQUIPMENTS AND SUFFICIENCY OF

FIRE STATIONS’

OMC‐KSJ Page46

6. EXISTING LEVEL OF MODERNISATION: AVAILABILITY OF

FIREFIGHTING & RESCUE VEHICLES / EQUIPMENTS AND

SUFFICIENCY OF FIRE STATIONS:

6.1.1The level of modernisation of any Fire & Rescue Services department needs

to be assessed by considering the following major parameters.

Availability of Firefighting and Rescue vehicles

Availability of Firefighting and Rescue equipments

Availability of specialised firefighting vehicles and equipments

Availability of specialised rescue vehicles and equipments

Availability of proper Personal Protective Equipments (PPEs)

Sufficient number of F&R Stations according to the scientific

assessment of fire hazards and somewhat even geographical spread

6.1.2 The present availability of Firefighting and Rescue vehicles in Kerala Fire &

Rescue Services Department as on 15‐12‐2013 is given below.

Sl.

No. Type

Less than 5

years old

5‐10 years old

10 ‐ 15 years old

15 ‐20 years old

Above 20

years old

Total

1 MTU

(Water Tenders of all types /Capacities)

31 59 30 0 31 151

2 Mini MTU

(Mini Water Tender of all types / Capacities)

26 0 20 8 0 54

3 Mini MTU (Water

Tenders) with Water Mist

12 0 0 0 0 12

4 Emergency Tender / Emergency Rescue

Vehicle

3 4 1 1 7 16

5 Crash Tenders 0 6 0 5 0 11

6 JCB 2 0 0 0 0 2

OMC‐KSJ Page47

7 Industrial Water

Tenders 0 0 0 0 3 3

8 Water Lorry 0 22 0 3 19 44

9 Recovery Van 2 0 0 6 2 10

10 Ambulance 17 13 28 1 0 59

11 Quick Response

Vehicle (QRV) 14 0 0 0 0 14

12 Jeep 22 14 20 5 4 65

13 Motor Cycle with

Water Mist 32 0 0 0 0 32

TOTAL 161 118 99 29 66 473

It is seen that 41% of the vehicles have completed the life period of more than

10 Years and 13.95 % of vehicles have completed more than 20 years of service.

The main firefighting vehicles like Water Tenders and Water Lorries practically

become unsafe for use after 10 years of use due to heavy load bearing capacity

resulting in heavy and frequent wear and tear of the vehicles. Therefore

commission recommends that the Water Tenders and Water Lorries which has

completed 10 years of service should be phased out for replacement. Similarly

the department should stop purchasing the water Lorries / tankers. The water

browsers with high capacity pumps instead of water lorry should be purchased

hereinafter.

The vehicles which have completed 20 years of life span should also be replaced

during the financial year 2014‐15 for maintaining the efficiency of the fire &

rescue services.

OMC‐KSJ Page48

6.1.3 The Present availablibility of Firefighting and Rescue equipments in the

KF&RS department are furnished below.

Sl.

No. Type of Equipment

Total Nos.

Available Remarks

1 Aluminium Suits 80

2 BA Set 163

3 BA Set Spare Cylinder 210

4 Breathing Air Compressor 14

5 Chain Saw ( Electric) 32

6 Chain Saw ( Petrol) 107

7 Chemical Suits 27

8 Concrete Cutter ( Electric)) 15

9 Concrete Cutter ( Petrol) 18

10 Face Mask 100

11 Firefighting Suits 87

12 Float Pump 95

13 Floating Stretcher 7

14 FMBP 80

15 Foam Compound (AFFF) 10000 Ltr

16 Folding Stretcher 170

17 Generators 28

18 Ground Monitor 10

19 Gum boot 1697

20 Hand controlled Branch 53

OMC‐KSJ Page49

(Zero Torque)

21 Helmet 2166

22 Hose ‐ Synthetic 320

23 Hose ‐Canvas ‐ Rubber

Lined 1445

24 Hydraulic Rescue Tool set 72

25 Inflatable Tower light 80

26 Leak Arrester Kit 10

27 Life Buoy 201

28 Life Detectors 1

29 Life Jacket 211

30 Mega Phone 22

31 Pneumatic Tools 4

32 Portable Pump 60

33 Power Ascender 5

34 Rope Ladder 5

35 Rubber Dinghy 20

36 Rubber Dinghy with OB

Engine 19

37 Safety Rubber Gloves 120 pair

38 SCUBA Set 58

39 SCUBA Set Spare Cylinder 40

40 Search Light 75

41 Shears 82

OMC‐KSJ Page50

42 Torches 105

6.1.4 The present availability of specialised firefighting vehicles and equipments in Kerala Fire & Rescue Services Department is given below.

i. Crash Tender‐11 numbers ii. Industrial Water Tender‐3 number iii. Mini Water Tender with Water Mist‐12 numbers iv. Motor Cycle with water Mist‐32 numbers v. Hand Controlled Branch (Zero Torque) – 53 numbers vi. Ground Monitors – 10 numbers

6.1.5 The present availability of specialised rescue vehicles and equipments in Kerala Fire & Rescue Services Department is given below.

i. Emergency Tender /Emergency Rescue Vehicle ‐16 numbers ii. Power Ascenders‐5numbers iii. Life Detector – 01 iv. Leakage Arrester‐10 v. Hydraulic Rescue Tool Set‐ 72 numbers vi. Scuba Set – 58 numbers vii. Inflatable Tower Light – 80 numbers viii. Pneumatic Tool Set – 4 numbers

6.1.6 As far as the availability of proper Personal Protective Equipments (PPEs) in

the KF&RS department is concerned there is no proper PPE provided to the fire

fighters. The only PPE items issued to the firefighting personnel in Kerala at

present is helmets and gum boots. The quality of these helmets leaves much to

be desired. The Fire fighters are wearing the same office uniform for the

firefighting& Rescue operations also. A proper firefighting suit with provision to

hold the toolkit, proper size helmet with head light, gloves and good quality gum

boots needs to be provided to all the individual fire fighters of KF&RS

department. The good quality PPEs with necessary accessories is absolutely

necessary to enhance the confidence level of individual fire fighter and efficiency

of the firefighting department. The good quality PPEs are easily available in the

Indian markets now days.

OMC‐KSJ Page51

6.1.7 SUFFICIENCY OF FIRE &RESCUE STATIONS:

At present the Kerala Fire and Rescue Department serves the Kerala state

through the 101 Fire and Rescue Stations established at various locations in the

state. It does not appear that any scientifically accepted norms have been

adopted in sanctioning the Fire & Rescue Station in the state. The sufficiency of

fire stations for any state or area depends on the yardsticks one applies in

determining the requirement of the fire stations.

6.1.8 According to the recommendations of Standing Fire Advisory Committee /

Council (SFAC) there can be one Fire Station for an area of 10 sq. km in urban

areas and for an area of 50 sq. km in rural areas. The SFAC stipulation also

mandates that Fire & Rescue Stations in India need to be established in such a

manner that the response time for first tender is 3, 5, and 7 minutes respectively

depending on risk category A, B, and C of fires in urban areas and 20 minutes in

rural areas. The total area of Kerala state is 38,863 sq. km. and the total

population according to the 2011 Census is 33,387,677. Taking the area criteria

of rural area alone, as per the SFAC recommendations; a total of 668 Fire

&Rescue Stations are needed in Kerala state. The number of Fire & Rescue

Stations will further increase if the criterion of urban and rural areas is

separately taken into consideration. The number of 668 fire stations for the state

of Kerala is huge number and prima facie appears unscientific and unrealistic and

difficult to accept.

6.1.9 According to a study called “Fire Hazard and Risk Analysis in the country for

Revamping the Fire & rescue servicess in the country” planned /sponsored by

Directorate of NDRF&CD, Fire Cell, MHA, New Delhi and conducted by RMSI,

Noida, India has estimated the total requirement of Fire Stations for the state of

Kerala as 228. The mandate of this study was to identify existing gaps in terms of

availability and requirement of fire stations, capacity‐building, trained man‐

power and firefighting, rescue and other specialised equipments. After

conducting a number of simulations using GIS based network analysis the RMSI

demonstrated that the two SFAC norms (response time and area based) are not

in synchronization with each other, and recommended to modify the SFAC

norms (response time and area based) to response time based norms for positioning a Fire Station, as response area will vary from place to place

depending upon road the road network. Depending upon the risk category, the

recommended response time for first fire tender is 5 to 7 minutes in urban areas

OMC‐KSJ Page52

and 20 minutes in rural areas. The RMSI has recommended a total of 228

numbers of operational and new fire stations in Kerala state. Out of

recommended 228 (157 urban and 71 rural) fire stations, 101 fire stations are

already available in the Kerala state and remaining 127 new fire stations (urban

and rural) are to be established in Kerala. This estimation is based on scientific

study of various fire risk factors therefore can be accepted as blueprint for future

expansion of fire stations in the state.

6.1.10 The above description of existing level of Firefighting / Rescue vehicles,

firefighting / Rescue equipments, specialised firefighting vehicles / equipments,

specialised rescue vehicles / equipments, Personal Protective Equipments (PPEs)

and number of Fire Stations clearly suggests that the modernisation level

achieved so far is quite inadequate by any standard and lot needs to be done to

achieve satisfactory level.

OMC‐KSJ Page53

CHAPTER‐7

‘IDENTIFICATION OF EXISTING GAPS IN

FIRE STATIONS / MANPOWER /

FIREFIGHTING VEHICLES AND

FIREFIGHTING / RESCUE / SPECIALISED

EQUIPMENTS IN KERALA FIRE &

RESCUE SERVICES DEPARTMENT’

OMC‐KSJ Page54

CHAPTER‐7.1

‘GAPS IN FIRE STATIONS’

OMC‐KSJ Page55

7.1GAPS IN THE FIRE STATIONS:

7.1.1 The RMSI study has recommended a total of 228 numbers of fire stations in

Kerala state. Out of the recommended 228 (157 urban and 71 rural) fire stations,

101 (66 urban & 35 rural) fire stations are already existing in the Kerala state and

remaining 127 new fire stations (urban and rural) are to be opened / established

in Kerala. The RMSI study has even suggested the locations where the new fire

stations should be established in each district of the Kerala state in their report.

Since; the estimation by RMSI is based on scientific study of various fire risk

factors it needs to be accepted as blueprint for future expansion of fire stations

in the state. The details of operational and new proposed urban fire stations and

priority ranking for new fire stations is given in Table 27‐38 of the RMSI report.

Similarly; the details of operational and new proposed rural fire stations and

priority ranking for new fire stations is given in Table 27‐39 of the RMSI report.

The RMSI report Tables 27‐38 and 27‐39 is reproduced below for better

appreciation of the RMSI analysis.

OMC‐KSJ Page56

RMSI REPORT Table 27‐38: Details of operational and new proposed urban Fire Stations with their ideal jurisdiction area,

estimated ideal served population under their jurisdiction, and priority ranking for new Fire Stations

District FS Ref No. Fire Station Name Operational

Type

Population

Den

sity

Priority

Ranking

Alappuzha KL_New_Urban_FS‐38 Kalavoor‐Mannanchery New Urban FS 5,647 6

Alappuzha KL_New_Urban_FS‐40 Punnapra New Urban FS 3,496 9

Alappuzha KL_New_Urban_FS‐37 Kanjikuzhy New Urban FS 3,072 11

Alappuzha KL1154 Alappuzh Fire Station Operational

Urban FS 4,187

Alappuzha KL1155 Mavelikkara Fire and

Rescue Station

Operational

Urban FS 1,962

Alappuzha KL1156 Chengannur Fire and

Rescue Station

Operational

Urban FS 1,243

Alappuzha KL1157 Kayamkulam Fire and

Rescue Station

Operational

Urban FS 6,476

Alappuzha KL1158 Cherthala Fire and Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 10,697

Ernakulam KL_New_Urban_FS‐29 Edappally, Ernakulam New Urban FS 16,642 1

OMC‐KSJ Page57

Ernakulam KL_New_Urban_FS‐30 Eroor, Ernakulam New Urban FS 9,138 2

Ernakulam KL_New_Urban_FS‐27 Vaduthala, Ernakulam New Urban FS 3,110 10

Ernakulam KL_New_Urban_FS‐34 Kangarappady, Ernakulam New Urban FS 2,412 12

Ernakulam KL_New_Urban_FS‐33 Perumbadappu, Kochi New Urban FS 2,285 13

Ernakulam KL_New_Urban_FS‐31 Shastammugal, Ernakulam New Urban FS 1,252 14

Eranakulam KL_New_Urban_FS‐35 Edathala,Aluva New Urban FS 1184 15

Ernakulam KL_New_Urban_FS‐32 Nadakkavu New Urban FS 855 16

Ernakulam KL_New_Urban_FS‐28 Njarakkal, Vypin New Urban FS 784 17

Ernakulam KL2436 Gandhinagar Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 16,317

Ernakulam KL2440 Trippunithura Fire &

Rescue Station

Operational

Urban FS 9,983

Ernakulam KL2443 Mattancheri Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 11,910

Ernakulam KL2451 Moovattupuzhe Fire &

Rescue Station

Operational

Urban FS 1,403

Ernakulam KL2472 Thrikkakara Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 23,477

OMC‐KSJ Page58

Ernakulam KL2454 Club Road Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 16,131

Ernakulam KL2458 Perumbavoor Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 1,224

Ernakulam KL2464 Angamaly Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 1,257

Ernakulam KL2466 Eloor Fire & Rescue Station Operational

Urban FS 3252

Ernakulam KL2469 Aluva Fire & Rescue Station Operational

Urban FS 1,932

Ernakulam KL2472 Thrikkakara Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 23477

Ernakulam KL2500 Kothamangalam Fire &

Rescue Station

Operational

Urban FS 7,138

Idukki KL2509 Thodupuzhe Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 2,595

Kannur KL_New_Urban_FS‐6 Chovva, Kannur New Urban FS 23,543 44

Kannur KL_New_Urban_FS‐59 Manal (Chirakkal) New Urban FS 22,466 45

Kannur KL_New_Urban_FS‐4 Puthiya Theru(Chirakkal) New Urban FS 20,711 46

Kannur KL_New_Urban_FS‐7 Thottada New Urban FS 2,655 50

OMC‐KSJ Page59

Kannur KL_New_Urban_FS‐8 Edakkad New Urban FS 2,059 52

Kannur KL_New_Urban_FS‐5 Pappinisseri New Urban FS 1,125 55

Kannur KL_New_Urban_FS‐54 Cheruthazham New Urban FS 807 56

Kannur KL2623 Kannur Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 40,171

Kannur KL2636 Thalassery Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 1,017

Kannur KL2646 Payyannur Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 2,231

Kannur KL2649 Thaliparamba Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 811

Kasargod KL_New_Urban_FS‐1 Bedira New Urban FS 4,115 47

Kasargod KL_New_Urban_FS‐2 Nileswaram New Urban FS 3,604 49

Kasargod KL_New_Urban_FS‐53 Cheruvathur New Urban FS 1,487 54

Kasargod KL2652 Thrikkaripur Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 2,106

Kasargod KL2655 Kanhangad Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 3,906

OMC‐KSJ Page60

Kasargod KL2659 Kasaragod Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 2,815

Kollam KL_New_Urban_FS‐42 Vazhappally, Kollam New Urban FS 6,200 27

Kollam KL_New_Urban_FS‐43 Chandanathope,Mangad New Urban FS 5,752 28

Kollam KL_New_Urban_FS‐41 Kavanad‐Sakthikulangara New Urban FS 3,968 31

Kollam KL_New_Urban_FS‐44 Anchal New Urban FS 1,986 36

Kollam KL1138 Punaloor Fire and Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 2,630

Kollam KL1141 Paravoor Fire and Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 3,123

Kollam KL1142 Kollam Fire and Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 34,148

Kollam KL1143 Chamakkada Fire and

Rescue Station

Operational

Urban FS 20,773

Kollam KL1144 Karunagappally Fire and

Rescue Station

Operational

Urban FS 2,263

Kollam KL1148 Kottarakkara Fire and

Rescue Station

Operational

Urban FS 1,417

Kottayam KL_New_Urban_FS‐39 Ettumanoor New Urban FS 4,115 48

OMC‐KSJ Page61

Kottayam KL_New_Urban_FS‐51 Chingavanam, Kottayam New Urban FS 1,782 53

Kottayam KL_New_Urban_FS‐36 Vaikom New Urban FS 462 57

Kottayam KL1159 Changanasseri Fire and

Rescue Station

Operational

Urban FS 3,224

Kottayam KL1161 Kottayam Fire and Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 6,537

Kottayam KL1166 Pala Fire and Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 1,603

Kottayam KL1167 Erattupetta Fire and Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 811

Kottayam KL1169 Kanjirappally Fire and

Rescue Station

Operational

Urban FS 1,083

Kozhikode KL_New_Urban_FS‐13 Thondayad, Kozhikode New Urban FS 22,020 20

Kozhikode KL_New_Urban_FS‐58 Kunnathupalam

(Kozikhode) New Urban FS 12,282 21

Kozhikode KL_New_Urban_FS‐11 Pavangad Junction,

Puthiyangadi New Urban FS 7,902 25

Kozhikode KL_New_Urban_FS‐9 Payyoli New Urban FS 3,441 33

Kozhikode KL_New_Urban_FS‐10 Koyilany New Urban FS 2079 35

OMC‐KSJ Page62

Kozhikode KL_New_Urban_FS‐12 Kumaraswamy New Urban FS 1,874 37

Kozhikode KL_New_Urban_FS‐16 Poovattauparamba New Urban FS 1,743 38

Kozhikode KL_New_Urban_FS‐14 Ramanattukara New Urban FS 1,219 40

Kozhikode KL2576 Vellimadukunnu Fire &

Rescue Station

Operational

Urban FS 19,226

Kozhikode KL2577 Kozhikode Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 24,003

Kozhikode KL2589 Meenchantha Fire &

Rescue Station

Operational

Urban FS 12,948

Kozhikode KL2599 Vadakara Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 2,631

Malappuram KL_New_Urban_FS‐56 Nooradi (Malappuram) New Urban FS 54,743 18

Malappuram KL_New_Urban_FS‐57 Panakkad (Malappuram) New Urban FS 42,767 19

Malappuram KL_New_Urban_FS‐17 Manjeri New Urban FS 4,079 29

Malappuram KL_New_Urban_FS‐19 Tanur New Urban FS 3,983 30

Malappuram KL_New_Urban_FS‐18 Changuvetti, Kottakkal New Urban FS 2,268 34

Malappuram KL_New_Urban_FS‐20 Puthanathani New Urban FS 1,739 39

OMC‐KSJ Page63

Malappuram KL_New_Urban_FS‐15 Kondotty New Urban FS 1,211 41

Malappuram KL_New_Urban_FS‐21 Edappal New Urban FS 1,023 42

Malappuram KL2553 Ponnani Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 2,446

Malappuram KL2556 Tirur Fire & Rescue Station Operational

Urban FS 3,172

Malappuram KL2558 Perinthalmanna Fire &

Rescue Station

Operational

Urban FS 3,629

Malappuram KL2562 Malappuram Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 22,921

Malappuram KL2573 Nilambur Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 2,470

Palakkad KL_New_Urban_FS‐55 Railway Colony,Palakkad New Urban FS 3,535 32

Palakkad KL2532 Kanjikkode Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 2,273

Palakkad KL2543 Palakkad Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 3,675

Pathanamthitta KL1149 Adoor Fire and Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 1,856

Pathanamthitta KL1150 Ranny Fire and Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 2,143

OMC‐KSJ Page64

Pathanamthitta KL1151 Pathanamthitta Fire and

Rescue Station

Operational

Urban FS 4,054

Pathanamthitta KL1152 Thiruvalla Fire and Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 2,830

Thiruvananthapuram KL_New_Urban_FS‐48 Vazhottukonam,

Trivandrum New Urban FS 8,555 3

Thiruvananthapuram KL_New_Urban_FS‐47 Pappanamcode,

Trivandrum New Urban FS 8,364 4

Thiruvananthapuram KL_New_Urban_FS‐46 Ulloor,Trivandrum New Urban FS 6,312 5

Thiruvananthapuram KL_New_Urban_FS‐45 Kadinamkulam, Trivandrum New Urban FS 5,316 7

Thiruvananthapuram KL_New_Urban_FS‐49 Poonkulam, Pachalloor New Urban FS 3,742 8

Thiruvananthapuram KL1126 Trivandrum Fire and Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 16,187

Thiruvananthapuram KL1127 Chacka Fire and Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 8,829

Thiruvananthapuram KL1129 Vizhinjam Fire and Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 4,471

Thiruvananthapuram KL1133 Varkala Fire and Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 2,079

Thiruvananthapuram KL1134 Attingal Fire and Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 3,141

OMC‐KSJ Page65

Thiruvananthapuram KL1135 Kazhakkuttom Fire and

Rescue Station

Operational

Urban FS 3,408

Thiruvananthapuram KL1136 Kattakkada Fire and Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 992

Thiruvananthapuram KL1137 Neyyattinkara Fire and

Rescue Station

Operational

Urban FS 3,953

Thrissur KL_New_Urban_FS‐24 Ollur, Thrissur New Urban FS 9,274 21

Thrissur KL_New_Urban_FS‐23 Mannuthy, Thrissur New Urban FS 9,072 22

Thrissur KL_New_Urban_FS‐22 Olarikkara, Thrissur New Urban FS 8,366 23

Thrissur KL_New_Urban_FS‐25 Keltron Nagar, Thrissur New Urban FS 6,474 25

Thrissur KL_New_Urban_FS‐26 Kodungallur New Urban FS 913

Thrissur KL2515 Thrissur Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 26,116

Thrissur KL2516 Kunnamkulam Fire &

Rescue Station

Operational

Urban FS 1,653

Thrissur KL2520 Guruvayoor Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 1,528

Thrissur KL2522 Puthukkad Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 3,434

OMC‐KSJ Page66

Thrissur KL2524 Chalakkudy Fire & Fire

Station

Operational

Urban FS 4,626

Thrissur KL2526 Irinjalakkuda Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 2,247

Wayanad KL_New_Urban_FS‐52 Mananthavady New Urban FS 2,556 51

Wayanad KL2615 Kalpetta Fire & Rescue

Station

Operational

Urban FS 2,107

Wayanad KL2617 Sulthan Btheri Fire &

Rescue Station

Operational

Urban FS 2,793

RMSI REPORT Table 27‐39: Details of operational and new proposed rural Fire Stations with their ideal jurisdiction area,

estimated ideal served population under their jurisdiction, and priority ranking for new Fire Stations

District FS Ref No. Fire Station Name Operational Type

Population

Den

sity

Priority

Ranking

Alappuzha KL_New_Rural_FS‐53 Vallikunnam New_Rural_FS 1,274 4

Alappuzha KL_New_Rural_FS‐33 Cheppad New_Rural_FS 916 7

Alappuzha KL_New_Rural_FS‐34 Vezhapra New_Rural_FS 494 9

OMC‐KSJ Page67

Ernakulam KL_New_Rural_FS‐31 Kolencherry New_Rural_FS 416 10

Ernakulam KL2477 Koothattukulam Fire &

Rescue Station Operational Rural FS 545

Ernakulam KL2461 North Paravoor Fire &


Ernakulam KL2474 Piravom Fire & Rescue

Station Operational Rural FS 296

Ernakulam KL2497 Kalloorkkad Fire & Rescue


Idukki KL_New_Rural_FS‐57 Muttom New_Rural_FS 446 70

Idukki KL_New_Rural_FS‐55 Vandiperiyar New_Rural_FS 69 71

Idukki KL2510 Kattappana Fire & Rescue


Idukki KL2507 Idukki Fire & Rescue Station Operational Rural FS 261

Idukki KL2512 Munnar Fire & Rescue


Kannur KL_New_Rural_FS‐11 Kudukkimotta New_Rural_FS 1,092 46

Kannur KL_New_Rural_FS‐10 Mangattuparamba New_Rural_FS 588 53

Kannur KL_New_Rural_FS‐62 Peringathur New_Rural_FS 507 55

OMC‐KSJ Page68

Kannur KL_New_Rural_FS‐12 Peralassery New_Rural_FS 480 56

Kannur KL_New_Rural_FS‐60 Ettikulam New_Rural_FS 473 57

Kannur KL_New_Rural_FS‐8 Kottila New_Rural_FS 281 61

Kannur KL_New_Rural_FS‐64 Chengalai New_Rural_FS 172 65

Kannur KL_New_Rural_FS‐9 Payyavoor New_Rural_FS 127 67

Kannur KL_New_Rural_FS‐13 Alakode New_Rural_FS 103 68

Kannur KL2628 Iritty Fire & Rescue Station Operational Rural FS 156

Kannur KL2643 Peringome Fire & Rescue


Kannur KL2640 Mattannur Fire & Rescue


Kannur KL2630 Peravoor Fire & Rescue


Kannur KL2633 Kuthuparamba Fire & Rescue


Kasargod KL_New_Rural_FS‐1 Kumbla New_Rural_FS 1,128 45

Kasargod KL_New_Rural_FS‐4 Bendichal New_Rural_FS 678 49

OMC‐KSJ Page69

Kasargod KL_New_Rural_FS‐5 Tachangad New_Rural_FS 655 50

Kasargod KL_New_Rural_FS‐7 Kanhirapoil New_Rural_FS 654 51

Kasargod KL_New_Rural_FS‐2 Mundayathaduka New_Rural_FS 395 58

Kasargod KL_New_Rural_FS‐3 Mularia New_Rural_FS 351 59

Kasargod KL_New_Rural_FS‐6 Malakkallu New_Rural_FS 136 66

Kasargod KL2666 Uppala Fire & Rescue Station Operational Rural FS 628

Kasargod KL2657 Kuttikol Fire & Rescue


Kollam KL_New_Rural_FS‐51 Adichanalloor New_Rural_FS 1,783 15

Kollam KL_New_Rural_FS‐43 Parippally New_Rural_FS 1,401 17

Kollam KL_New_Rural_FS‐37 Odanavattom New_Rural_FS 915 25

Kollam KL_New_Rural_FS‐52 Chavara New_Rural_FS 834 28

Kollam KL_New_Rural_FS‐36 Pathanapuram New_Rural_FS 267 38

Kollam KL_New_Rural_FS‐47 Kulathupuzha New_Rural_FS 54 43

Kollam KL1140 Kundara Fire and Rescue

Station Operational Rural FS 1,338

OMC‐KSJ Page70

Kollam KL1147 Shasthamkotta Fire and

Rescue Station Operational Rural FS 1,177

Kollam KL1139 Kadakkal Fire and Rescue


Kottayam KL_New_Rural_FS‐32 Kumarakom New_Rural_FS 631 52

Kottayam KL_New_Rural_FS‐56 Erumeli New_Rural_FS 249 62

Kottayam KL1163 Kaduthuruthy Fire and


Kottayam KL1168 Pampady Fire and Rescue


Kozhikode KL_New_Rural_FS‐63 Chemmarathur New_Rural_FS 356 36

Kozhikode KL2587 Narikuuni Fire & Rescue


Kozhikode KL2595 Mukkam Fire & Rescue


Kozhikode KL2605 Perambra Fire & Rescue


Kozhikode KL2613 Nadapuram Fire & Rescue


Malappuram KL_New_Rural_FS‐66 Velluvambram New_Rural_FS 3,069 13

OMC‐KSJ Page71

Malappuram KL_New_Rural_FS‐18 Vengara New_Rural_FS 1,331 19

Malappuram KL_New_Rural_FS‐21 Padaparamba New_Rural_FS 1,310 20

Malappuram KL_New_Rural_FS‐58 Kuttayi New_Rural_FS 1,124 21

Malappuram KL_New_Rural_FS‐59 Parappanangadi New_Rural_FS 1,078 22

Malappuram KL_New_Rural_FS‐22 Valanchery New_Rural_FS 996 23

Malappuram KL_New_Rural_FS‐20 Pandikkad New_Rural_FS 962 24

Malappuram KL_New_Rural_FS‐17 Edavanna New_Rural_FS 707 30

Malappuram KL_New_Rural_FS‐65 Kalikavu New_Rural_FS 607 31

Malappuram KL_New_Rural_FS‐16 Chungathara New_Rural_FS 193 41

Palakkad KL_New_Rural_FS‐19 Ottappalam New_Rural_FS 2,691 14

Palakkad KL_New_Rural_FS‐24 Cherpulassery New_Rural_FS 912 26

Palakkad KL_New_Rural_FS‐23 Koottanad New_Rural_FS 748 29

Palakkad KL_New_Rural_FS‐67 Nattukal New_Rural_FS 490 35

Palakkad KL_New_Rural_FS‐25 Mundur New_Rural_FS 355 37

Palakkad KL_New_Rural_FS‐40 Kollengode New_Rural_FS 230 40

OMC‐KSJ Page72

Palakkad KL2541 Chithur Fire & Rescue Station Operational Rural FS 1,404

Palakkad KL2530 Shornnur Fire & Rescue


Palakkad KL2534 Alathur Fire & Rescue Station Operational Rural FS 714

Palakkad KL2574 Mannarkkad Fire & Rescue


Pathanamthitta KL_New_Rural_FS‐35 Kozhenchery New_Rural_FS 1,236 44

Pathanamthitta KL_New_Rural_FS‐38 Pandalam New_Rural_FS 1,073 47

Pathanamthitta KL_New_Rural_FS‐39 Enathu New_Rural_FS 1,027 48

Pathanamthitta KL_New_Rural_FS‐71 Uthimoodu New_Rural_FS 584 54

Pathanamthitta KL_New_Rural_FS‐54 Pamba New_Rural_FS 17 69

Thiruvananthapuram KL_New_Rural_FS‐72 Kallambalam New_Rural_FS 2,362 1

Thiruvananthapuram KL_New_Rural_FS‐45 Sarkara New_Rural_FS 1,564 2

Thiruvananthapuram KL_New_Rural_FS‐41 Balaramapuram New_Rural_FS 1,559 3

Thiruvananthapuram KL_New_Rural_FS‐46 Venjaramoodu New_Rural_FS 1,158 5

Thiruvananthapuram KL_New_Rural_FS‐44 Vilappilsala New_Rural_FS 1,032 6

OMC‐KSJ Page73

Thiruvananthapuram KL_New_Rural_FS‐49 Perumkadavila New_Rural_FS 771 8

Thiruvananthapuram KL_New_Rural_FS‐42 Kallikkad New_Rural_FS 259 11

Thiruvananthapuram KL_New_Rural_FS‐48 Ponmudi New_Rural_FS 93 12

Thiruvananthapuram KL1130 Poovar Fire and Rescue Station Operational Rural FS 1,246

Thiruvananthapuram KL1132 Parassala Fire and Rescue

Station Operational Rural FS 1,020

Thiruvananthapuram KL1128 Nedumangad Fire & Rescue


Thrissur KL_New_Rural_FS‐28 Cherpu New_Rural_FS 1,755 16

Thrissur KL_New_Rural_FS‐26 Edakkalathur New_Rural_FS 1,385 18

Thrissur KL_New_Rural_FS‐27 Thriprayar New_Rural_FS 896 27

Thrissur KL_New_Rural_FS‐70 Pavaratty New_Rural_FS 604 32

Thrissur KL_New_Rural_FS‐29 Kodakara New_Rural_FS 520 33

Thrissur KL_New_Rural_FS‐68 Pazhayannur New_Rural_FS 505 34

Thrissur KL_New_Rural_FS‐30 Pattikad New_Rural_FS 238 39

Thrissur KL_New_Rural_FS‐50 Vettilapara New_Rural_FS 68 42

OMC‐KSJ Page74

Thrissur KL2529 Vadakkancheri Fire & Rescue


Thrissur KL2525 Mala Fire & Rescue Station Operational Rural FS 461

Thrissur KL2550 Wadakkanchery Fire &


Wayanad KL_New_Rural_FS‐15 Vythiri New_Rural_FS 297 60

Wayanad KL_New_Rural_FS‐14 Makkiyad New_Rural_FS 226 63

Wayanad KL_New_Rural_FS‐61 Thalappuzha New_Rural_FS 198 64

Wayanad KL2621 Mananthevady Fire & Rescue


OMC‐KSJ Page75

7.1.2It is true that the opening / establishment of 127 new fire stations is

going to take decades but we must set the target of opening at least five (05) fire stations in a financial year; so that we can achieve the objective of opening 127 new fire stations in three decades time w.e.f financial year 2014‐15. This is not a very tall order keeping in view the urgency of expanding the outreach of emergency services in the state.

7.1.3 Another important thing to be kept in mind is that any new fire station to

be opened in the Kerala state hereinafter should be only at the locations

recommended by the RMSI study in Table 27‐38 and Table 27‐39 of their

report. The priority suggested by the RMSI however can be changed keeping in

view the various other expedient factors.

OMC‐KSJ Page76

CHAPTER‐7.2

‘GAPS IN MANPOWER’

OMC‐KSJ Page77

7.2 GAPS IN MANPOWER:

7.2.1 The strength for any fire station is decided according to the number of

Pump station(s) / Pumping Unit(s) sanctioned / available in a particular fire

station. And the number of Pump station(s) / Pumping Unit(s) is to be

determined on the basis of the population of any district / city / town /fire

station.

7.2.2 The man power requirements for fire stations were considered at the

sixth SFAC meeting. It was felt that the manpower requirements varied

according to the types of firefighting appliances, the number of fire engines at

the fire stations, the duty system: continuous or shift duty and extent of other

duties, like inspection of hydrant and water resources, testing of fire alarms

and type of communication system in the organisation.

7.2.3 The SFAC guidelines prescribe the number of Station Officer, Sub officer,

Leading Firemen, Firemen, Drivers /Operators etc. according to the number of

Pump station(s) / Pumping Units including reserve for duty off, training, leave

etc.

7.2.4 The RMSI study has adopted the SFAC guidelines for determining the

manpower requirement for fire station with some minor changes to optimise

the manpower resources. The table 27‐16 of RMSI report titled as “Manpower

requirement for Station Officer and lower staffs for Kerala considering two shiftsduty pattern” is reproduced below.

Sl.No

Size of Station

(Pumping Unit)

Station Officer

Sub Officer

Leading Fireman

Additional LFM

Total LFM

Drivers /

Operators

Fireman

Additional FM

per FS (FAD,HID,

DISP, W

RO)

Total Fireman

Total

1 One 0 1.75 2.5 1.25 3.75 5 15 10 25 35.50

2 Two 1.75 1.75 5 1.25 6.25 7.5 30 10 40 57.25

3 Three 1.75 3.5 7.5 1.25 8.75 10 45 10 55 79.00

4 Four 3.5 3.5 10 1.25 11.25 15 60 10 70 103.25

5 Five 3.5 5.25 12.5 1.25 13.75 17.5 75 10 89 125.00

OMC‐KSJ Page78

6 Six 3.5 7 15 1.25 16.25 22.5 90 10 100 149.25

7 Seven 5.25 7 17.5 1.25 18.75 25 105 10 115 171.00

In addition to the above where the station functions as an independent

unit and has its own cash and store work, one clerk should be provided.

Sweeper should be provided at the scale of one per 5000 sq. ft. of

covered area and one per 7000 sq. ft. of open area, subject to a minimum of

one at each fire station without any reference to the area to be swept.

One gardener for every half acre of land required to be maintained as

garden. At places having more than one fire station or offices of supervisory

officers exists, the number of gardeners should vary from places to place

depending on the area to be maintained.

7.2.5 The fire stations in Kerala had been working on a system of two shifts a

day as mentioned in the department Standing Order No. 22/1964. This two

shift duty (12 hours duty & 12 hours off) system was changed to daily shift

duty (24 hours duty & 24 hours off) system according to the standing order No.

23‐01‐2002. Even though the Kerala fire stations are following the 12 hours

and then 24 hours rotational duty system for long but the sanctioned strength

of operational fire stations are not exactly supportive of this 24 hours

rotational duty system. It is also clarified that there is no category / post of Sub

officer in Kerala Fire & Rescue Services department. There is however the

category / post of Assistant Station Officer in Kerala Fire & Rescue Services

department. For the purpose of manpower requirement we can easily

substitute the category of Sub Officer by the category of Assistant Station

Officer without any changes in the manpower assessment done by RMSI.

OMC‐KSJ Page79

7.2.6 The RMSI report Table 27‐19 regarding the man power gap in operational

fire stations for ideal jurisdiction area is re‐produced below.

District

Fire Stations

Level 10

Level 9

Level 8

Level 7

Level 6

Level 5

Level 4

Level 3

Level 2

Level 1

Level 0

Total Staff

Alappuzha 6 0 0 1 0 1 2 7 21 31 336 ‐1 398

Ernakulam 15 1 1 1 0 1 2 23 52 71 868 4 1,024

Idukki 4 0 0 0 0 2 1 10 20 35 317 1 386

Kannur 10 0 0 1 0 2 2 7 27 33 372 ‐1 443

Kasargod 4 0 0 0 0 2 2 8 17 21 192 2 244

Kollam 9 0 0 1 0 2 2 10 32 46 391 0 484

Kottayam 7 0 1 1 0 2 1 10 30 43 448 0 536

Kozhikode 9 0 1 1 0 1 1 15 36 50 564 ‐1 668

Malappuram 5 0 0 1 0 2 1 2 18 22 251 ‐2 295

Palakkad 7 0 1 1 0 1 1 8 24 37 396 ‐1 468

Pathanamthitta 4 0 0 0 0 2 1 1 12 7 124 0 147

Thiruvanantha

puram 11 0 1 1 0 1 2 ‐1 27 5 195 3 234

Thrissur 7 0 0 1 0 2 1 10 30 41 474 5 564

Wayanad 2 0 0 0 0 2 2 5 14 22 182 1 228

Total 100 1 5 10 0 23 21 115 360 464 5,110 10 6,119

Level 10: Director General /Additional Director/Deputy Director; Level 9: CFO/Co; Level 8:

Deputy CFO ; Level 7: Deputy Controller; Level 6: DFO/DO/EO/Fire Supervisor; Level 5:

ADO/ADFO/AFO/Fire in Charge; Level4: STO/Sub Inspector/Station in Charge/ASTO/AEO;

Level 3: S O/Assistant Sub Inspector/ASO/Sub‐Fire Officer; Level 2: LFM/Mechanic Driver/

Head Constable/Store Superintendent ; Level 1 : FM/FO Driver/Radio Technician/

SGFM/Driver/Police Constable/Wireless Technician/Radio Technician/Asst.FM/Sanitary

OMC‐KSJ Page80

Inspector, FO/FO Driver/Driver Operator/Driver/Ambulance Driver/ Clerk; Level 0: Cleaner,

Fire Coolie, Supporting Staff, Attendant, Laborer, Peon, , Security Guard, Cleaner, Tindal

7.2.7 The RMSI report Table 27‐20 regarding total staff gap for operational and

new urban fire stations is re‐produced below.

District

Fire Stations

Level 10

Level 9

Level 8

Level 7

Level 6

Level 5

Level 4

Level 3

Level 2

Level 1

Level 0

Total Staff

Alappuzha 9 0 0 1 0 1 4 16 39 67 570 2 700

Ernakulam 24 1 1 1 0 1 4 38 91 144 1368 13 1662

Idukki 4 0 0 0 0 2 1 10 20 35 317 1 386

Kannur 17 0 0 1 0 2 4 23 66 128 1023 6 1253

Kasargod 7 0 0 0 0 2 4 12 28 40 314 5 405

Kollam 13 0 0 1 0 2 4 16 48 73 586 4 734

Kottayam 10 0 1 1 0 2 3 15 42 63 596 3 726

Kozhikode 17 0 1 1 0 1 3 35 81 156 1272 7 1557

Malappuram 13 0 0 1 0 2 3 18 53 94 806 6 983

Palakkad 8 0 1 1 0 1 3 10 30 48 469 0 563

Pathanamthitta 4 0 0 0 0 2 1 1 12 7 124 0 147

Thiruvananthap

uram 16 0 1 1 0 1 4 14 55 65 631 8 780

Thrissur 12 0 0 1 0 2 3 25 59 104 895 10 1099

Wayanad 3 0 0 0 0 2 4 5 16 24 198 2 251

Total 157 1 5 10 0 2

3

4

5

23

8

64

0 1,048 9,169 67 11,246



ADO/ADFO/AFO/Fire in Charge; Level4: STO /Sub Inspector/Station in Charge/ASTO/AEO;

OMC‐KSJ Page81





Fire Coolie, Supporting Staff, Attendant, Laborer, Peon, Security Guard, Cleaner, Tindal

7.2.8 The RMSI report Table 27‐21 regarding additional staff required for new

rural fire stations is re‐produced below.

District

Fire Stations

Level 10

Level 9

Level 8

Level 7

Level 6

Level 5

Level 4

Level 3

Level 2

Level 1

Level 0

Total Staff

Alappuzha 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 15 30 193 3 247

Ernakulam 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 4 7 47 1 60

Idukki 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 8 14 89 2 115

Kannur 9 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 22 22 156 9 210

Kasargod 7 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 19 22 141 7 190

Kollam 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 21 37 232 6 302

Kottayam 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 8 17 107 2 138

Kozhikode 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 16 1 21

Malappuram 10 0 0 0 0 0 0 25 52 99 677 10 863

Palakkad 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 15 34 67 442 6 564

Pathanamthitta 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 11 25 44 309 5 394

Thiruvananthap

uram 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 29 47 302 8 393

Thrissur 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 28 46 289 8 378

Wayanad 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 12 20 132 3 171

Total 71 0 0 0 0 0 0 90 279 474 3,132 71 4,046

OMC‐KSJ Page82



ADO/ADFO/AFO/Fire in Charge; Level4: STO/Sub Inspector/Station in Charge/ASTO/AEO;





Fire Coolie, Supporting Staff, Attendant, Laborer, Peon, Security Guard, Cleaner, Tindal

7.2.10The following is the details of manpower available for 101 operational

fire stations in Kerala Fire & Rescue Services (As on 1st November,

2013).

Sl.

No. Designation

Sanctioned

Post Present Vacancy

1 Commandant General 1 1 0

2. Director (Technical) 1 1 0

1 Director(Admin) 1 0 1

Divisional Officer 5 5 0

2. Asst. Divisional Officer 15 15 0

3. Station Officer 104 103 1

4. Station Officer (MT) 7 7 0

5. Asst. Station Officer 115 101 14

6. Leading Fireman 421 414 7

Driver Mechanic 106 88 18

7. Fireman Driver cum

Pump Operator 788 727 61

9. Fireman 2409 1370 1039

Total 3973 2832 1141

OMC‐KSJ Page83

7.2.11On perusal of the RMSI report (Tables 27‐20 to 27‐21) the total

requirement of staff comes to 15,292 for estimated 228 fire stations for Kerala.

The total sanctioned staffs for 101 operational Fire & Rescue Stations is

3973.The anticipated additional requirement of staffs for recommended 228

Fire Stations will therefore come to 11,319. The establishment of new 127 fire

stations is going to take many decades. Therefore there is no point in

recommending additional staff of 11,319 for entire 127 new fire stations at this

stage.

7.2.12 What is a must and urgent is to create additional posts in the

department for existing 101 operational Fire & Rescue Stations for successful

adoption of two shift system /pattern in Kerala Fire & Rescue Stations for the

category of Firemen/FDCPOs/DMs/LFs/ASTOs. It is true that the Fire & Rescue

Stations in Kerala are following the 24 hrs rotational duty system (practically

two shift duty patterns) but not enough staff is sanctioned. The present station

staff strength is divided into two 24 hrs shifts and they do the 24 hrs rotational

duty. The RMSI study has calculated the gap in the Table 27‐19 of their report

in existing fire stations on the basis of two shift duty norms. But the analysis of

manpower gap in operational fire stations for ideal jurisdiction area done by

RMSI in Table 27‐19 of their report cannot be accepted in its entirety for the

fire stations of Kerala because of some different rank structure and state

centric specificity.

7.2.13 In order to assess the actual manpower gap in the operational fire

stations of Kerala; we will have to first fix the norm for the number of pumping

stations for the urban and rural fire stations as hither to no scientific norm has

been adopted in sanctioning man power to the fire stations in Kerala. It should

also be kept in mind that there should be a minimum of two pumping units

(turn outs) in one fire station for effective firefighting purposes. The

following manpower norms for urban and rural fire stations based on the

number of pumping units is therefore fixed to assess the manpower gap in of

operational fire stations in Kerala.

i. Minimum Pumping Units for one Municipal Corporation Fire

Station ‐4 Nos.

ii. Minimum Pumping Units for one Urban Fire Station ‐3 Nos.

iii. Minimum Pumping Units for one Rural Fire Station ‐2 Nos.

OMC‐KSJ Page84

iv. There can be more pumping units in any above mentioned

category according to the population and area of the fire

station(s).

7.2.14The following norms for manpower is also fixed for the operational and

new fire stations to be opened in Kerala state here in after. These norms are

being prescribed based on SFAC/RMSI study recommendations with slight

changes to suit the KF&RS organisational hierarchy and specific state centric

requirement.

The norms for manpower for one Pump station / Pumping Unit size fire

station with two shift duty system/pattern shall be as under:

i. Station Officer: 1, ii. ASTO: 1, iii. Leading Firemen: 4, iv. Driver Mechanic: 1, v. FDCPO: 8, vi. Firemen: 25, vii. Clerk cum typist cum Computer operator: 1, viii. Sweeper: 1

The norms for manpower for two Pump station(s) / Pumping Unit(s)

size fire station with two shift duty system/pattern shall be as under:

i. Station Officer: 1, ii. ASTO: 3, iii. Leading Firemen: 6, iv. Driver Mechanic: 2, v. FDCPO: 12, vi. Firemen: 40, vii. Clerk cum typist cum Computer operator: 1, viii. Sweeper: 1

The norms for manpower for three Pump station(s) / Pumping Unit(s)


i. Station Officer: 2, ii. ASTO: 3, iii. Leading Firemen: 9, iv. Driver Mechanic: 3,

OMC‐KSJ Page85

v. FDCPO: 15, vi. Firemen: 55, vii. Clerk cum typist cum computer operator: 2, viii. Sweeper: 1

The norms for manpower for four Pump station(s) / Pumping Unit(s)


i. Station Officer: 3, ii. ASTO: 4, iii. Leading Firemen: 11, iv. Driver Mechanic: 3, v. FDCPO: 20, vi. Firemen: 70, vii. Clerk cum typist cum computer operator: 3, viii. Sweeper: 1

The norms for manpower for five Pump station(s) / Pumping Unit(s)


i. Station Officer: 4, ii. ASTO: 5, iii. Leading Firemen: 14, iv. Driver Mechanic: 4, v. FDCPO: 25, vi. FIREMEN: 85, vii. Clerk cum typist cum computer operator: 3, viii. Sweeper: 1

The norms for manpower for six Pump station(s) / Pumping Unit(s) size

fire station with two shift duty system/pattern shall be as under:

i. Station Officer: 4, ii. ASTO: 7, iii. Leading Firemen: 16, iv. Driver Mechanic: 4, v. FDCPO: 30, vi. FIREMEN: 100, vii. Clerk cum typist cum computer operator: 3, viii. Sweeper: 1

OMC‐KSJ Page86

The norms for manpower for seven Pump station(s) / Pumping Unit(s)


i. Station Officer: 5, ii. ASTO: 7, iii. Leading Firemen: 19, iv. Driver Mechanic: 5, v. FDCPO: 30, vi. Firemen: 105, vii. Clerk cum typist cum computer operator: 3, viii. Sweeper: 1

7.2.15The above manpower norms according to the Pumping Unit(s) size fire station with two shift duty system is summarised below in consolidated form.

SL. No.

Category of Fire Station personnel

One pumping unit

Two pumping units

Three pumping units

Four pumping units

Five pumping units

Six pumping

units

Seven pumping units

1 Station Officer 1 1 2 3 4 4 5

2 Assistant Station

Officer 1 3 3 4 5 7 7

3 Leading Fireman 4 6 9 11 14 16 19

4 Driver Mechanic 1 2 3 3 4 4 5

5 Fireman Driver cum Pump Operator

8 12 15 20 25 30 30

6 Fireman 25 40 55 70 85 100 105

7 Clerk / Typist /

Computer Operator 1 1 2 3 3 3 3

8 Sweeper 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

9 Total 42 66 90 115 141 165 175

OMC‐KSJ Page87

7.2.16There is a total of 101 Fire &Rescue Stations in KF&RS Department. Out of the 101 stations 66 are in urban area and 35

are in rural area. Out of the 66 urban Fire & Rescue Stations Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Kozhikkode, Kollam and

Thrissur are municipal corporations but Thiruvananthapuram Fire & Rescue Station, Gandhinagar Fire & Rescue Station,

Ernakulam and Meenchanda Fire & Rescue Station, Kozhikode alone are considered for 4 Pumping Units fire Station.

Therefore; the following is the manpower gap analysis for the existing 101 Fire & Stations in Kerala according to the yardstick

fixed in para 4.2.13 above.

Sl. No. Manpower category

MAN POWER REQUIREMENT TOTAL MAN POWER

REQUIREMENT FOR 101 FIRE STATIONS

TOTAL SANCTIOND MANPOWER FOR 101 FIRE STATIONS AT PRESENT

MAN POWER GAP /SHORTAGE FOR 101 FIRE STATIONS

35 Nos. RURAL FIRE STATIONS @ 2 Pumping units per fire

station

63 Nos. URBAN FIRE STATIONS

@ 3 Pumping units per fire station

03 Nos. MUNICIPAL CORPORATION FIRE

STATIONS @ 4 Pumping units per fire

station

1 Station Officer 35 126 9 170 102 68

2 Assistant Station Officer 105 189 12 306 114 192

3 Leading Fireman 210 567 33 810 418 392

4 Driver Mechanic 70 189 9 268 106 162

5 Fireman Driver cum Pump Operator

420 945 60 1425 780 645

6 Fireman 1400 3465 210 5075 2403 2672

7 Clerk / Typist /

Computer Operator 35 126 9 170 99 71

8 Sweeper 35 63 3 101 87 14

9 Total

2310 5670 345 8325 4109 4216

OMC‐KSJ Page88

7.2.17The commission therefore recommends the creation of 4216 (8325‐4109)

new posts in different category as mentioned in the para above in the existing / operational fire stations of Kerala to make up the manpower gap for effective delivery of services expected of them.

7.2.18The gap analysis of middle and senior level officers of the KF&RS

department will be assessed afresh after new organisational re‐structuring is

proposed. The number of middle level supervisory and senior level posts is highly

skewed and has not kept pace with whatever little growth the organisation has

seen at fire station level.

OMC‐KSJ Page89

CHAPTER‐7.3

‘GAPS IN THE FIREFIGHTING & RESCUE

VEHICLES’

OMC‐KSJ Page90

7.3 GAPS IN THE FIREFIGHTING& RESCUE VEHICLES:

7.3.1 In order to assess the actual gap of firefighting vehicles in the existing

operational fire stations of Kerala; we will have to first fix the scale for the

number of firefighting vehicles for the fire stations as hither to no scientific scale

has been adopted in sanctioning firefighting vehicles to the fire stations in

Kerala. The following scale of firefighting vehicles for fire stations based on the

number of pumping unit(s) is therefore fixed to assess the gap in the scale of

firefighting vehicles of operational fire stations in Kerala. It should also be kept in

mind that there should be a minimum of two pumping units (turn outs) in one

fire station for effective firefighting purposes.

The scale of firefighting vehicles for one Pump station / Pumping Unit size

fire station shall be as under:

i. Water Tender ( 4500 litre capacity)‐1 No., ii. Water Bowser / Lorry‐ 1 No., iii. Ambulance‐1 No., iv. Jeep‐1 No., v. Quick Response Tender ‐ 1No,

The scale of firefighting vehicles for two Pump station(s) / Pumping

Unit(s) size fire station shall be as under:

i. Water Tender ‐2 No., ii. Water Bowser / Lorry‐ 1 No., iii. Ambulance‐1 No., iv. Jeep‐1 No., v. Quick Response Tender ‐ 1No., vi. Motor Cycle with water mist – 1 No.,

The scale of firefighting vehicles for three Pump station(s) / Pumping

Unit(s) size fire station shall be as under:

i. Water Tender ‐3 Nos.,

ii. Water Bowser / Lorry‐ 1 No.,

iii. Ambulance‐1 No.,

iv. Jeep‐1 No.,

v. Quick Response Tender ‐ 1No.,

vi. Motor Cycle with water mist – 1 No.,

OMC‐KSJ Page91

vii. Advance Rescue Tender / Mini Rescue Responder – 1 No.

The scale of firefighting vehicles /equipments for four Pump station(s) /

Pumping Unit(s) size fire station shall be as under:

i. Water Tender ‐4 Nos., ii. Water Bowser / Lorry‐ 2 No., iii. Ambulance‐1 No., iv. Jeep‐1 No., v. Quick Response Tender ‐ 2No., vi. Motor Cycle with water mist – 2 No., vii. Advance Rescue Tender / Mini Rescue Responder – 1 No.

7.3.2 The scale of vehicles for Single Pumping unit size Fire Stations to Seven

Pumping units’ size Fire Stations are tabulated as under.

Sl.

No. Category of vehicles

One pumping

Unit

Two pumping

Units

Three pumping

Units

Four pumping

Units

Five pumping

Units

Six pumping

Units

Seven pumping

Units

1 Water Tender 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

2 Water Bowser 1 1 1 2 2 3 3

3 Ambulance 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

4 Jeep 1 1 1 2 2 2 3

5 Quick Response

Tender 1 1 1 2 2 2 2

6 Motor Cycle with

water mist ‐ 1 1 2 2 2 2

7

Advanced Rescue

Responder / Mini

Rescue Responder

‐ ‐ 1 1 1 1 1

8 Total 5 7 9 14 15 17 19

OMC‐KSJ Page92

7.3.3 The details of different types of vehicles available at present in KF&RS Department are as follows:

* The MTU consist of water tenders of all types/capacities, Mini Water Tenders and Mini Water Tenders with mist

technology.

No. O

f F&

R Stations

Urban/Rural

Fire Stations

MTU

(Water Ten

ders & M

ini W

ater

Tenders including with m

ist

technology *

Water Lorries

Foam

ten

der

Advanced Emergency Tender/

Rescue Responder

TTL / ALP / HYD

RAULIC

PLATFORM

DCP Tender

Hose Laying Tender / Lorries

BA Van

Hazmat Van

Quick Rescue Tender

Mini Em

ergency Ten

der / Rescue

Responder

Motor Cycle with m

ist

Fire Boat

Ambulance

Educational Van

Jeep

Recovery Veh

icle

Total N

o. of vehicles

101

Urban

66

217 44 0 16 0 0 0 0 0 14 0 32 2 59 0 65 10 459

Rural

35

OMC‐KSJ Page93

7.3.4The requirement of the firefighting& rescue vehicles for 101 fire stations of Kerala according to the scale fixed in

paras 7.3.1 and 7.3.2 above: District

No. O

f F&

R Stations

Urban

/ rural fire stations

Water Ten

ders

Total w

ater ten

ders for the

district

Water Bowser

Foam

ten

der

Advance Emergency Ten

der /

Rescue Responder

Mini Emergency Ten

der /

RescueResponder

TTL / ALP / HYD

RAULIC

PLATFORM

DCP Ten

der

Hose Laying Lorries

BA Van

Hazmat Van

Quick Response

Tender

Motor Cycle with m

ist

Fire Boat

Ambulance

Educational Van

Jeep

Recovery Veh

icle

Total

Alappuzha 5 Urban 5 15

15 5 1 1 4 0 1 1 1 0 5 5 1 5 1 5 1 52 Rural

Ernakulam 15 Urban 11 34

42 16 5 2 9 2 1 2 1 1 16 16 1 15 2 15 2 148 Rural 4 8

Idukki 4 Urban 1 3

9 4 1 1 0 0 1 1 1 0 4 4 0 4 1 4 1 36 Rural 3 6

Kannur 9 Urban 4 12

22 9 2 2 2 1 1 2 1 0 9 9 0 9 1 9 2 81 Rural 5 10

Kasaragod 5 Urban 3 9 13 5 2 1 2 0 1 1 1 0 5 5 0 5 1 5 1 48

OMC‐KSJ Page94

Rural 2 4

Kollam 9 Urban 6 18

24 9 2 1 5 1 1 1 1 0 9 9 0 9 1 9 1 83 Rural 3 6

Kottayam 7 Urban 5 15

19 7 2 1 4 0 1 1 1 0 7 7 0 7 1 7 1 66 Rural 2 4

Kozhikkode 8 Urban 4 13

21 9 3 1 3 1 1 1 1 1 9 9 0 8 1 8 1 78 Rural 4 8

Malappuram 5 Urban 5 15

15 5 1 1 4 0 1 1 1 0 5 5 0 5 1 5 1 51 Rural

Palakkad 7 Urban 2 6

16 7 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 7 7 0 7 1 7 1 61 Rural 5 10

Pathanamthitta 5 Urban 4 12

14 5 1 1 3 0 1 1 1 0 5 5 0 5 1 5 1 49 Rural 1 2

Thiruvananthapuram 11 Urban 8 25

31 12 2 2 6 2 1 2 1 1 12 12 0 11 1 11 2 109 Rural 3 6

Thrissur 8 Urban 6 18 22 8 1 2 4 1 1 2 1 0 8 8 0 8 1 8 2 77

OMC‐KSJ Page95

Rural 2 4

Wayanad 3 Urban 2 6

8 3 1 1 1 0 1 1 1 0 3 3 0 3 1 3 1 31 Rural 1 2

TOTAL 970

The following criterion has been followed for recommending the above requirements of the firefighting& rescue vehicles.

The pumping units specified here includes Water Tenders, Mini Water Tenders, Mini Water tenders with Mist

Technology, Crash Tenders and Industrial water Tenders available in the Department.

Two Pumping units recommended for rural F&R Stations, Three Pumping units recommended for Urban F&R

Stations and Four Pumping units each are recommended for the District Headquarters F&RS of

Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam and Kozhikkode.

One Water Bouser each is recommended for the fire stations of two Pumping units and three Pumping units. Two

water bousers are recommended for the F&R Stations of four Pumping units.

One Foam Tender has been recommended for each district and one more Foam Tender for the districts having

airports. In addition extra Foam Tenders have been provided to some districts as per RMSI study report.

Emergency Rescue Tenders available in the department are considered as advanced Emergency Tenders / Rescue

Responders and the recommendation is as per RMSI study report.

OMC‐KSJ Page96

Mini Emergency Tenders / Rescue Responders are proposed for all urban F&RS not having an advanced Rescue

Responder.

Recommendation made in terms of Sky Lift, Hose laying Lorries, Fire Boat, Educational Van and Hazmat van are

based on RMSI Report.

Motor cycle with water mist is recommended for all F&R Stations except single Pumping unit size fire stations.

Quick Response Tender (QRT) is recommended for all fire stations.

DCP Tender and BA van are recommended one each for each district.

Hazmat vehicle recommended for Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam and Kozhikode districts

Ambulance and jeep are recommended for all F&R Stations.

A criterion for the recommendation of recovery vehicle is similar to that of the advanced Emergency Tenders /

Advanced Rescue responder specified in the RMSI Report.

Water Bowsers should also be equipped with minimum BA sets and other equipment’s as fitted in a normal water

tender so that they can also supplement as pumping units in case of emergency situations.

The power steering and automatic transimission are the latest technology for firefighting vehicles. This technology

ensures faster start/acceleration/braking/maneavourability/durability /reliability and has inbuilt power take off

(PTO) provision. It is therefore recommended that the firefighting vehicles with power steering and automatic

transimission(automatic gear box) technology only should be purchased here in after.The chasis of the firefighting

vehicles should also be of Volvo/Man / Dennis/Merecedes Benz Company.

OMC‐KSJ Page97

7.3.5The gap analysis of the firefighting& rescue vehicles of the 101 fire& rescue stations of Kerala is summarised in the

table below:

Subject

MTU

(Norm

al & m

ini W

ater

tenders including with m

ist

technology for the district

Water Bowser / Lorry

Foam

ten

der

Advanced Emergency Tender

/ Rescue Responder

Mini Emergency Ten

der /

Rescue Responder

TTL / ALP / HYD

RAULIC

PLATFORM

DCP Ten

der

Hose Laying Lorries

Breathing Apparatus Van

Hazmat Van

Quick Response Ten

der

Motor Cycle with m

ist

Fire Boat

Ambulance

Educational Van

Jeep

Recovery Veh

icle

Total

Total requirement of

firefighting& rescue

vehicles for 101 fire

stations of Kerala.

271 104 26 18 48 9 14 18 14 3 104 104 2 101 15 101 18 970

Total availability of

firefighting& rescue

vehicles in the 101

operational fire stations

of Kerala.

217 44 0 16 0 0 0 0 0 0 14 32 2 59 0 65 10 459

Gapin the firefighting&

rescue vehicles in the

101 operational fire

stations of Kerala.

54 60 26 2 48 9 14 18 14 3 90 72 0 42 15 36 8 511

OMC‐KSJ Page98

The gap / shortage in the number of all types of firefighting vehicles come to

511, which is huge and reflects the severe extent of the deficiencies prevalent

in the KF&RS department.

As stated earlier in the report 41% of the total vehicles have completed the life

period of more than 10 Years and 13.95 % of total vehicles have completed

more than 20 years of service. The main firefighting vehicles like Water

Tenders and Water Lorries practically become unfit and unsafe for use after 10

years of use due to heavy load bearing capacity resulting in heavy and frequent

wear and tear of the vehicles.

Therefore commission recommends that the Water Tenders and Water Lorries

which has completed 10 years of service should be phased out for

replacement. The vehicles which have completed 20 years of life span should

also be replaced during the financial year 2014‐15 for maintaining the

efficiency of the fire & rescue services.

The commission therefore recommendsthe procurement of the above

mentioned vehicles totaling 508 on priority to make the Kerala Fire & Rescue

Services efficient and responsive. The purchase of Water Tenders, Water

Bowsers, Advanced Rescue Responders and Mini Rescue Responders should

be done during the financial year 2014‐15 and 2015‐16 positively to bridge

the gap in respect of firefighting and rescue vehicles.

The commission also recommends that the Water Tenders and Water Lorries

which has completed 10 years of service should be phased out for replacement during the financial year 2014‐15 itself.

It is also recommended that water bowsers of 12000 / 9000 litres capacity with high capacity monitors, high power capacity pumps fitted with basic firefighting and rescue equipment’s should only be purchased hereinafter. The normal water Lorries should be phased out and replaced by the water bowsers because they can also be used as pumping units in case of emergency.

We should buy more of mini water tenders with mist technology and Mini Emergency

Tenders / Rescue Responders hereinafter as they are more suitable for the Kerala situation

because of prevalence of narrow lanes and roads in the cities / towns and for hilly regions of

the state where the normal water tenders find it difficult to negotiate the terrain and city

lanes /by lanes.

OMC‐KSJ Page99

CHAPTER‐7.4

‘GAPS IN THE FIREFIGHTING AND

RESCUE EQUIPMENTS’

OMC‐KSJ Page100

7.4 GAPS IN THE FIREFIGHTING AND RESCUE EQUIPMENTS:

7.4.1 The scale of equipment’s for Single Pumping unit size Fire Stations to

Seven Pumping units’ size Fire Stations are tabulated as under.

Sl.

No. Category of equipment

One pumping Unit fire

station

Two pumping Units fire

station

Three pumping Units fire

station

Four pumping Units fire

station

Five

pumping Units fire

station

Six pumping Units fire

station

Seven pumping Units fire

station

1 Portable Pump 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

2 Float Pump 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

3 Delivery Hose ‐ Synthetic 25 40 55 75 90 105 120

4 Ordinary Branch 2 4 6 8 10 12 14

5 Hand Controlled Branch

(Zero Torque) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

6 BA Set 3 5 6 8 10 10 10

7 BA Set Spare Cylinder 3 5 6 8 10 10 10

8 Chain Saw ( Petrol) 1 1 2 2 2 2 2

9 Hydraulic Rescue Tool Set 1 1 1 2 2 2 3

10 Inflatable Tower light 1 1 1 2 2 2 3

11 Life Buoy 3 4 6 8 10 10 10

12 Life Jacket 3 4 6 8 10 10 10

13 Foam Making Branch Pipe 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

14 Foam Compound ‐ AFFF

( In Litters) 100 150 300 300 400 500 500

15 Firefighting Suits 5 10 15 20 25 30 35

16 Rubber Dinghy 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

17 Safety Gloves 5 10 15 20 25 30 35

OMC‐KSJ Page101

18 Search Light 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

19 Shears 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

20 Rechargeable Torches 2 4 6 8 10 12 14

21 Folding Stretcher 2 2 2 2 2 2 2

22 Distress Signal Unit 3 4 6 8 10 10 10

23 Adapter set ‐ Suction,

Delivery & Hydrant 1 1 1 1 2 2 2

24 Hose Ramp 2 4 6 8 10 12 14

25 Breathing Air Compressor

1 1 1 1 1 1

26 Ground Monitor

1 1 2 2 2 2

27 Leak Arrester Kit

1 1 2 2 2 3

28 Rope Ladder

1 1 1 1 2 2

29 Rubber Dinghy with OB

Engine 1 1 2 2 2 2

30 SCUBA Set 3 3 3 3 3 4

31 SCUBA Set Spare Cylinder

3 3 3 3 3 4

32

Under water

Communication System

with camera

3 3 3 3 3 4

33 Diving Suites

3 3 3 3 3 4

34 Collecting Breeching

1 1 1 2 2 2

35 Dividing Breeching

1 1 1 2 2 2

36 Aluminium Suits

1 2 3 3 4 4

37 Chain Saw ( Electric)

1 1 1 2 2 2

38 Chemical Suits

1 2 3 5 5 5

39 Concrete Cutter

( Electric) 1 1 1 1 1 1

40 Concrete Cutter ( Petrol)

1 1 1 1 1 1

41 Generators

1 1 1 1 1 1

OMC‐KSJ Page102

42 Life Detectors for search

& rescue (DELSAR) 1 2 2 2 2 2

43 Mega Phone

1 1 1 2 2 3

44 Pneumatic Tools

1 1 1 1 2 2

45 Power Ascender

1 1 1 1 1 1

46 Smoke Extractor

1 1 1 2 2 2

47 Demolishing Hammer

1 1 1 1 1 1

48 High Pressure/Capacity

Portable Pump 1 1 1 1 1 1

49 Multi Gas Detection

Meter 1 1 1 2 2

50 Thermal Imaging Camera

1 1 1 1 1

51 Inline Inductor

1 1 2 2 2

52 High Expansion Foam

Generators 1 1 1 1 1

7.4.2 The gap analysis of the firefighting& rescue equipment’s of the 101

operational fire & rescue stations of Kerala is summarised in the table below.

Sl.

No.

EQUIPMENT

TYPE

REQUIREMENT

TOTA

L

REQ

UIREM

ENT

AVAILABLE AT

PRESEN

T

GAP/

SHORTA

GE RURAL

(2 Pumping

unit fire

station ‐ 35

Numbers)

URBAN

(3 Pumping

unit fire

station ‐ 63

Numbers)

URBAN

(4 Pumping

unit fire

station ‐ 3

Numbers)

1 Portable Pump 35 63 3 101 86 15

2 Float Pump 35 63 3 101 98 3

3 Delivery Hose ‐

Synthetic 1400 3465 225 5090 1904 3186

4 Ordinary Branch 140 378 24 542 216 326

5

Hand Controlled

Branch

(Zero Torque)

70 189 12 271 49 222

6 BA Set 175 378 24 577 200

377

OMC‐KSJ Page103

7 BA Set Spare

Cylinder 140 378 24 542 213 329

8 Chain Saw

( Petrol) 35 126 6 167 118 49

9 Hydraulic Rescue

Tool Set 35 63 6 104 62 42

10 Inflatable Tower

light 35 63 6 104 85 19

11 Life Buoy 140 378 24 542 243 299

12 Life Jacket 140 378 24 542 219 323

13 FMBP 70 189 12 271 135 136

14

Foam Compound

( AFFF)

5250 18900 900 25050 9950

15100

15 Firefighting Suits 350 945 60 1355 36 1319

16 Rubber Dinghy 35 63 3 101 22 79

17 Safety Gloves 350 945 60 1355 92 1263

18 Search Light 70 189 12 271 42 229

19 Shears 70 189 12 271 64 207

20 Rechargeable

Torches 140 378 24 542 129 413

21 Folding Stretcher 70 126 6 202 158 44

22 Distress Signal

Unit 140 378 24 542 0 542

23

Adapter set ‐

Suction,

Delivery &

Hydrant

35 63 3 101 0 101

24 Hose Ramp 140 378 24 542 0 542

25 Breathing Air

Compressor 35 63 3 101 17 84

26 Ground Monitor 35 63 6 104 16 88

27 Leak Arrester Kit 35 63 6 104 10 94

28 Rope Ladder 35 63 3 101 16 85

OMC‐KSJ Page104

29 Rubber Dinghy

with OB Engine 35 63 6 104 19 85

30 SCUBA Set 105 189 9 303 51 252

31 SCUBA Set Spare

Cylinder 105 189 9 303 39 264

32

Under water

Communication

System with

camera

105 189 9 303 0 303

33 Diving Suites 105 189 9 303 0 303

34 Collecting

Breeching 35 63 3 101 0 101

35 Dividing

Breeching 35 63 3 101 0 101

36 Aluminium Suits 35 126 9 170 91 79

37 Chain Saw

( Electric) 35 63 3 101 31 70

38 Chemical Suits 35 126 9 170 26 144

39 Concrete Cutter

( Electric) 35 63 3 101 13 88

40 Concrete Cutter

( Petrol) 35 63 3 101 20 81

41 Generators 35 63 3 101 23 78

42

Life Detectors for

search & rescue

(DELSAR)

35 126 6 167 32 135

43 Mega Phone 35 63 3 101 22 79

44 Pneumatic Tools 35 63 3 101 5 96

45 Power Ascender 35 63 3 101 4 97

46 Smoke Extractor 35 63 3 101 1 100

47 Demolishing

Hammer 35 63 3 101 0 101

48 High Pressure

Portable Pump 35 63 3 101 0 101

49 Multi Gas

Detection Meter 0 63 3 66 0 66

50 Thermal Imaging

Camera 0 63 3 66 0 66

OMC‐KSJ Page105

51 Inline Inductor 0 63 3 66 0 66

52 High Expansion

Foam Generators 0 63 3 66 0 66

The equipment’s at serial numbers 9 (Hydraulic Rescue Tool Set),

10(Inflatable Tower Light), 22 (Distress signal unit), 27(Leakage Arrester Kit), 30

(Scuba Set), 42 (Life Detector) 44 (Pneumatic Tools), 45 (Power Ascenders), 47

(Demolition Hammer), 48 (High Pressure Portable Pumps), 49 (Multi Gas

Detection Meter), 50 (Thermal Imaging Camera) and 52 (High Expansion Foam

Generators) are some of the specialised equipment’s. All these equipment’s are

necessary for the modernisation of the KF&RS Department and should be

procured during next two financial years (i.e. 2014‐15 & 2015‐16).

The equipment’s like Fire Floats equipped with firefighting and rescue

equipment’s; which are very useful in maritime/coastal areas, Search Camera

for Preliminary Surface Search (snake eye camera) for searching lives under

building collapses, Well Rescue equipment’s (useful in rescue operations from

the wells or closed water body enclosures) and Arial Tree Pruner have not

been included in the above list. The requirement and scale of theses

equipment’s should be assessed by Commandant General, KF&RS Department

and procure them accordingly. For rescue from the wells one can also

improvise a device /equipment consisting of light weight tripod stand with

pulley rope and rescue net. This can be locally fabricated by designing it to the

required measurement.

The gaps in the firefighting & rescue equipments assessed above needs

to be made good at the earliest to improve the efficiency level of the KF&RS

department.

OMC‐KSJ Page106

CHAPTER‐7.5

‘GAPS IN THE PERSONAL PROTECTIVE

EQUIPMENTS ( PPEs)’

OMC‐KSJ Page107

7.5 GAPS IN THE PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENTS ( PPEs) :

At presentthe helmets and gum boots are being issued by the department but

its issue is erratic and irregular. The other PPE item in the inventory of KF&RS

department is the breathing apparatus but the number is not adequate.

The PPEs can be divided in to two categories for the purpose of procurement

and issue. The PPEs that need to be issued individually to all the fire fighters

and the PPEs that could be issued to the fire stations for the common use by

the fire fighters on need basis.

The individual issue PPEs would include helmets, safety boots / gum boots,

High Quality Heavy Duty (heat and cut resistance) rubber gloves, Overalls fire

resistant suit, pair of knee pads, rain coat, fire man axe and personal safety line

(sash cord) 15” length. These PPEs should be issued individually to each one

from Fire man to Divisional Officer. The total strength of executive staff from

fireman to Divisional Officer for existing 101 fire & rescue stations comes to

3970. The KF&RS department therefore will have to procure 3970 numbers

each of above mentioned individual issue PPEs.

The PPEs that could be issued to fire stations for common use on need basis

would include Water bottle with sling, Face Mask, Gas mask, Eye protection‐

Goggles, Ear protection, Safety belt, Fire entry suit, Fire proximity suit,

Chemical suit, Breathing apparatus (Light weight) and Buoyancy aids like life

jackets and immersion suits.In the para 7.4.1 above the scale of issue of BA

sets, Aluminium suits (fire entry & fire proximity suits) and chemical suits has

been prescribed for assessing the gap of equipment’s. The Commandant

General, KF&RS department should fix the scale for other PPEs meant for

common use in the fire stations and take action to procure them on priority.

The quality of helmets being procured now should also be reviewed as they

don’t have head lamp and ear phone facility. The helmet should be of light

weight and made of polycarbonate fibre.

The Personal Protective Equipment’s (PPEs) are a must for the

firefightingpurposes. The PPEs builds the confidence and morale of the fire

fighters and helps in efficient and effective firefighting operations. It should be

accorded priority in procurement.

OMC‐KSJ Page108

CHAPTER‐8

‘RE‐ STRUCTURING OF FIRE AND

RESCUE SERVICES HEADQUARTERS’

OMC‐KSJ Page109

8.RE‐STRUCTURING OF FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICES

HEADQUARTERS:

8.1 The headquarters of any organisation is the apex body for all administrative

and operational functions of the Dept. It is a bridge between the government

and the department as a whole. The headquarters functions mainly involve

guidance, supervision, control and monitoring of the mandated performance of

the sub ordinate and field units. It also sets the pace for efficient and effective

implementation of the departmental goals / objective and creates the requisite

organisational ethos for the healthy functioning of the department and welfare

of its employees.

8.1.1 The administrative and operational efficiency of any organisation in turn

is fully dependent upon the availability of required / trained man power, nature

of training / training infrastructures, availability of standard equipment’s,

discipline, effective communication and building infrastructure; which are

managed and regulated by the headquarters. The headquarters therefore

reflects the cumulative concern and aspirations of the organisation.

8.1.2 The Functions of Kerala Fire & Rescue Services Head Quarters are broadly

categorised and listed below.

a. Policy formulations for the creation of adequate number of Fire &Rescue

Stations and their adequate strengthening / equipping for the task of fire

prevention/fighting and rescue operations andsubmitting to Govt. for

approval and release of required funds.

b. Formulation of modernisation schemes /plans for the Kerala Fire &

Rescue Services Department and submitting to Govt. for approval and

release of required funds.

c. Policy formulations with regard to the training needs of various ranks of

the department and development of training infrastructuresand

submitting to Government for approval and release of required funds.

d. Organising specialised training courses for the officers and personnel of

the department to enhance their professional knowledge and outreach.

e. Policy formulations with regard to the overall infra‐structure

development of the department and submitting to government for

approval and release of required funds.

OMC‐KSJ Page110

f. Organising research and development in the subjects of firefighting and

engineering to the extent possible and ensuring discussion among the

departmental officers and personnel.

g. Conducting survey of latest firefighting equipment’s in the country by

deputing officers to the industries /firms manufacturing the firefighting

vehicles / equipment’s. This will help in devising procurement policy of

the department.

h. Co‐ordinating the major firefighting and rescue operations and

conducting review of major fire and rescue operations by a board of

officers and lessons learnt to be circulated among the department

personnel.

i. Annual plan and Budget preparations.

j. Procurement of general / firefighting vehicles, fire & rescue equipment’s,

fir fighting appliances, uniform articles, etc within budget provisions and

their distributions among the field units.

k. Ensure timely purchase of administrative stores according to

requirement and budget provisions.

l. Deployment and mobilization of personnel and appliances judiciously to

optimise the output.

m. Ensure timely land acquisition for the fire stations and residential

buildings.

n. Ensure timely repairs and maintenance of vehicles, appliance and

equipments.

o. Timely action to report existing and anticipated vacancies to the Govt. /

KPSC and pursue matter for early recruitment against the vacancy.

p. Service Matters: Appointments, Transfer & Posting, Promotions,

Pension, SPARK, Enquiries, Rewards, Medals, Punishments, etc.

q. Issuance of building NOC according to NBC and procedures laid down by

the Government from time to time, issuance of renewal of building NOC

and conduct of building Inspections by all authorised officers of KF&RS

department.

r. Ceremonial parades, festival arrangements, Important National Day

celebrations, etc.

s. Proper management of Welfare and Amenity funds.

t. Monitoring of conduct of Audits and Inspections.

u. Condemnations and Disposal of stores

OMC‐KSJ Page111

8.1.3 To achieve the mandated result and create positive impact in the

organisation and deliver on the expectations of the employees of the

department and government; the headquarters, subordinate offices and all fire

stations should therefore be sanctioned required number and levels of staffs to

fulfil organisational goal.

8.1.4 The present strength of the Kerala Fire & Rescue Services Headquarters

as on 01‐11‐2013 is given below:

Post Sanctioned Present Vacancy

Commandant General 1 1 ‐‐

Director (Technical) 1 1*

Director (Administration)

1 1 1

Administrative Officer 1 1** ‐‐

Senior Superintendent 1 1 ‐‐

Junior Superintendent 1 1 ‐‐

Head accountant 1 1 ‐‐

Fair copy Superintendent

1 1 ‐‐

Clerk 12 12*** ‐‐

Typist 6 6 ‐‐

Office Attendant 2 2 ‐‐

Station Officer 1 1 ‐‐

Station Officer (M.T) 1 1 ‐‐

Leading Fireman 1 1 ‐‐

Fireman 1 1 ‐‐

Fireman Driver cum pump operator

3 3 1

Night watcher 1 1 ‐‐

OMC‐KSJ Page112

Confidential Assistant 2 2 ‐‐

Part Time Sweeper 1 1 ‐‐

* The incumbent Director (Technical) was transferred to KF&RS Academy, Viyyur on 29‐01‐2013 on administrative ground. The post of Director (Administration) which was lying vacant since the incumbent retired from service on 31‐05‐2013 has been filled by promotion recently in the first week of December 2013. There was no senior executive cadre officer in the KF&RS Hqrs to assist the CG, KF&RS Department for almost six months since 1‐06‐2013. This ad‐hocism has to end for smooth functioning of KF&RS Hqrs. There is no sanctioned post of Director / Dy. Director in the KF&RS Academy. Both the posts of Director (Technical) and Director (Administration) are sanctioned for the KF&RS HQRS. ** The Administrative officer is a deputation post reserved for the Govt. Secretariat staff. ***There are 2 numbers of supernumerary posts of LD Clerks in addition to the 12 posts of clerks already available.

8.1.5 The structure and staff pattern of KF&RS Hqrs is therefore not at all

adequate and sufficient to discharge the functions enumerated above. It is one

of the main reasons for KF&RS Hqrs to have failed in discharging the functions

related to the policy formulation and implementations. The other major reason

for its pronounced failure in critical and crucial functions of policy formulations

and procurement of modern equipment’s is the total absence of technical

officers at the level of DO/ADO in the KF&RS Hqrs. How can the KF&RS Hqrs

deliver on crucial functions with just two executive officers of Director level and

unfortunately one of them has been posted out to KF&RS academy,Viyyur since

2007.

8.1.6 It has been observed that there has been no corresponding increase in

the number of supervisory posts in the department in last 50 years since it

became an independent organisation in 1963. The following data speaks about

this glaring anomaly.

OMC‐KSJ Page113

Sl. No.

Year

No. o

f Fire Stations

Station Officer*/A

ssistant

Divisional Officer

Regional Fire Officer*/

Divisional Officer

Asst. Director

Deputy Director

Director (Admin)

Director (Technical)

Comman

dan

t General

1 1963‐1964 15 4 2 ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ 1

2 1971‐1972 15 6 2 1 ‐ ‐ ‐ 1

3 1983‐1984 31 10 3 1 1 ‐ ‐ 1

4 1984‐1985 37 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

5 1985‐1986 39 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

6 1986‐1987 41 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

7 1987‐1988 41 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

8 1988‐1989 48 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

9 1989‐1990 53 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

10 1991‐1992 54 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

11 1992‐1993 54 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

12 1993‐1994 54 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

13 1994‐1995 54 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

14 1995‐1996 55 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

15 1996‐1997 55 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

OMC‐KSJ Page114

16 1997‐1998 55 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

17 1998‐1999 57 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

18 1999‐2000 63 10 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

19 2000‐2001 68 14 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

20 2001‐2002 68 14 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

21 2002‐2003 68 14 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

22 2003‐2004 70 14 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

23 2004‐2005 74 14 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

24 2005‐2006 80 14 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

25 2006‐2007 83 15 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

26 2007‐2008 83 15 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

27 2008‐2009 89 15 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

28 2009‐2010 89 15 3 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

29 2010‐2011 98 13 5 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

30 2011‐2012 100 15 5 ‐ 1 ‐ 1 1

31 2012‐2013 101 15 5 ‐ ‐ 1 1 1

32

2013‐2014 (As on 15‐12‐2013)

101 15 5 ‐ ‐ 1 1 1

OMC‐KSJ Page115

8.1.7 The absence of enough number of executive cadre officers in KF&RS

Headquarters has also adversely affected the overall procurement process of

the department. This has resulted in poor quality technical specification, faulty

tender notices, delays in procurement of modern equipments and lack of

transparency in the overall procurement process. The entire procurement

related subject is dealt by the Director (technical) and concerned clerical staff

under him. There was no system of constituting the technical committees

comprising of technically conversant field officers for deciding technical

specifications and then conducting pre‐supply physical survey / verification of

the equipments / stores. The system of constituting the technical committees for deciding technical specifications and then conducting pre‐supply physical verification / survey was started in the KF&RS Hqrs only from October / November 2012 by the then Commandant General. This made the purchase /

procurement procedure / system quite transparent.

8.2 PROPOSED RE‐STRUCTURING OF KF&RS HEADQUARTERS:

8.2.1PROVISIONING WING:

The need for a ‘Provisioning Wing’ in the KF&RS Hqrs staffed / manned by

technically qualified officers is acutely felt for the following reasons.

As mentioned above no appreciable growth of senior and middle level

officers in the Headquarters and field formations of KF&RS department

in last 50 years of its existence.

The numbers of fire stations have been created from time to time in last

50 years as mentioned above though not up to the required level. And

the bare minimum vehicles, appliances, equipments have been procured

to equip the fire stations. Procurement of firefighting vehicles,

appliances, equipments and now the rescue equipments is the major

task of the KF&RS Headquarters, but no corresponding additions to the

KF&RS Headquarters staff dealing with the procurement subject.

The present purchasing process / system starts from concerned section

clerk; goes through Junior Superintendent, Administrative Officer,

Director (Technical); and reaches Commandant General. The section

clerk, Junior Superintendent and Administrative Officer have no direct

relation and knowledge with the field level operations of the dept. They

are totally unaware of techniques of firefighting and rescue operations

OMC‐KSJ Page116

for which the equipments are required. They are not in a position to

assess and analyse the operational capacity and drawbacks of equipment

employed. The Director is the only person in the procurement chain who

has risen from the experience of firefighting and rescue operations. It is

only he who can provide the technical in puts in procurement process.

This structural deficiency has greatly undermined the procurement

efforts of the department for obvious reasons. This clearly underlines the

necessity of adequate number of higher level departmental officers to be

involved in the process of procurement / purchase. This can be achieved

only by creating the new posts in the KF&RS department.

The poor record of utilisation of sanctioned funds in recent years mainly

because the system has failed to procure the modern technology

equipments.

The KF&RS department’s purchase /procurement procedure is governed

by the Store Purchase Manual of Govt. of Kerala. This Store Purchase

Manual could be serving its purpose as far as the low value stores are

concerned but it is generally out of tune for the procurement of costly

sophisticated machinery / instruments. In fact it is counterproductive for

the purchase of high end technology equipments which are expensive

and sometime not even competitive.

It is relatively easy to purchase the BIS/ISS standard compliant

equipments because the technical specification is well defined and

available in Indian market. But, most of the specialised and modern

equipments like Breathing Apparatus Set, SCUBA Set, Arial ladders (Sky

Lift,TTL, Hydraulic Platforms etc.), Zero Torque Branch, Hydraulic Rescue

Equipments, Power Ascenders, Chain Saws, Power Cutters, Tower Lights,

and host of other firefighting / rescue equipments used in fire & rescue

servicess are manufactured in foreign countries following different

standards. They are not BIS/ISS standard compliant. The KF&RS

department therefore will have to devise its own purchase /

procurement policy and procedures to facilitate and expedite the

procurement / purchase of costly and technology savvy equipments.

The stipulation of lowest bid concept in present procurement procedures

often leads to purchase of poor quality products.This procedure has

failed to supply equipments and appliances in sufficient numbers and of

desired quality in time. This system also does not ensure timely

OMC‐KSJ Page117

maintenance and availability of spares in time. The service, repair and

maintenance of equipments should be included in the original cost of

equipment itself. But the existing Store Purchase Manual does not allow

this. The purchase of advanced equipments should have the provision for

spares and maintenance in the original cost to avoid any malfunctions of

the equipment.

The department uses highly sophisticated equipments and appliances.

Hence field level higher supervisory officers of sound technical

knowledge (Minimum qualification of ADO Course from NFSC) should be

included in selecting, setting standard, defining technical parameters and

purchase of fire & rescue services equipments and appliances. The lack

of such officers is clearly reflected in the botched up procurement profile

and adversely affecting the operational efficiency of the dept.

The ‘Provisioning Wing’ will be responsible for the procurement of all the

purchases of the KF&RS department. The ‘Provisioning Wing’ will

prepare the modernisation and annual plans for the procurement of

modern firefighting vehicles, appliances, equipment’s and rescue

vehicles / equipment’s and liaise with Govt. and State Planning Board for

release of required funds. This wing will also be responsible for the

preparation of long term, mid‐term, short term and annual procurement

policy for the KF&RS department as a whole keeping in view the

modernisation needs of the KF&RS department.

The ‘Provisioning Wing’ shall specify / determine the technical

specifications for all types of firefighting vehicles, appliances,

equipment’s and rescue vehicles / equipment’s on a regular basis. A

catalogue of technical specifications for different type of fighting

vehicles, appliances, equipment’s and rescue vehicles / equipment’s

which are commonly used in Kerala situation shall be prepared by the

proposed provisioning wing and then circulated / discussed among the

officers of department and then finalised for incorporating the same in

the tenders whenever such equipment(s) are to be purchased / procured

by the department.

This ‘Provisioning Wing’ will also expedite the sanction orders within the

competence of Commandant General KF&RS department on the

purchases, ratifications, condemnations, auction confirmations and write

off proposals in respect of all the stores received from the sub‐ordinate

OMC‐KSJ Page118

offices and field units. The proposals beyond the competence of

Commandant General KF&RS department will be forwarded to Govt.

after proper scrutiny of proposals of the sub‐ordinate offices and field

units.

The ‘Provisioning Wing’ will also prepare the catalogue of manufacturers

of general and specialised firefighting vehicles / systems / equipment’s in

India and abroad for ready reference to be used at the time of calling

tenders for making the procurement broad based and more inclusive.

The other important function of the ‘Provisioning Wing’ shall involve the

liaison work with govt., industry and other stake holders in making the

Kerala Fire & Rescue Services Department purchases /procurements

efficient and transparent.

Therefore a new ‘Provisioning Wing’ should be created in the KF&RS

Hqrs and it should be manned / staffed by creating the new posts of one

Divisional Officer, Two Assistant Divisional Officers, Two Station

Officers, Two Leading Firemen and Two FDCPO.They all should be

technically competent and knowledgeable.

8.2.2 TECHNICAL WING:

Even though the Kerala Fire and Rescue Services Department depends heavily

upon the technical assets for its efficiency and service delivery; there is no

technical wing / branch in the KF&RS Headquarters. The efficiency of

emergency department like KF&RS not only depends upon the acquisition of

modern firefighting vehicles, firefighting equipment’s & rescue equipment’s

but strong repair and maintenance support systems.

Recently some action has been taken by the Govt. of Kerala in this direction by

sanctioning the creation of 7 posts of STO (MT) in KF&RS department for

ensuring timely repairs and maintenance of the KF&RS department motor

vehicles / firefighting vehicles /firefighting& rescue equipment’s and other

related jobs vide G.O. (MS) 10/201/Home Dated 13/11/2011 and G.O. (MS)

69/2011/Home Dated 28/02/2012. The duties of STO (MT) has been issued vide

G.O. (MS) No. 04/2013/Home dated 08/01/2013 and communicated to all

officers / units of KF&RS through KF&RS Hqrs Standing Order No. 02/2013

Dated 11/03/2013. The 7 sanctioned STOs (MT) are for 5 Divisional Offices of

KF&RS Department located at Thiruvananthapuram, Kottayam, Ernakulam,

Palakkad & Kozhikode and one each for KF&RS Headquarters and KF&RS

OMC‐KSJ Page119

Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur. The STOs (MT) have the power to issue essentiality

certificate for the repair and spare parts up to Rs. 50,000/‐ and this initiative

has already started yielding positive results in reducing the delay in repairs &

maintenance of the vehicle. There is need for creating four more posts of STOs

(MT) in the department to further strengthen the repair and maintenance

efforts.

One post each of Divisional Officer (Technical) and Assistant Divisional Officer

(Technical) needs to be created to constitute a technical wing in the KF&RS

Headquarters as part of re‐structuring the KF&RS Headquarters.

The Divisional Officer (Technical) and Assistant Divisional Officer (Technical) in

the KF&RS Headquarters will advise the Commandant General on all technical

matters and supervise the repair & maintenance of motor vehicles / firefighting

vehicles / firefighting& rescue equipment’s. They will be instrumental in

technological advancement of the KF&RS department. The post of Divisional

Officer (Technical)) will be filled by the KF&RS department officer. But the post

of Assistant Divisional Officer (Technical) can be filled either by direct

recruitment of a mechanical Engineer as Assistant Divisional Officer (Technical)

in KF&RS Headquarters or on deputation basis from any Engineering

department of the State Government. The details of recruitment /deputation

of Assistant Divisional Officer (Technical) in the KF&RS Headquarters can be

worked out by the Commandant General / Government.

The Divisional Officer (Technical) and the Assistant Divisional Officer (Technical)

together with the one STO (MT) already sanctioned and two new posts of

Driver Mechanics will constitute the ‘Technical Wing’ in the KF&RS

Headquarters.

The technical wing shall be responsible for processing and expediting the

requests for the sanction orders within the competence of Commandant

General KF&RS department on the purchase, repair & maintenance,

condemnations, auction confirmations and write off proposals in respect of all

the general / specialised motor vehicles, firefighting vehicles / appliances /

equipment’s and rescue vehicles / equipment’s received from the sub‐ordinate

offices and field units. The proposals beyond the competence of Commandant

General KF&RS department will be forwarded to Govt. after proper scrutiny of

proposals of the sub‐ordinate offices and field units.

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The other important task of ‘Technical Wing’ in the KF&RS Headquarters will be

to conduct the research on the latest technology innovations and their

adoptions in manufacturing of firefighting systems / equipment’s. It will be the

research and development wing of the KF&RS department.

The Divisional officer (Technical) and Assistant Divisional Officer (Technical) will

assist the proposed ‘Provisioning Wing’ in formulating all the procurement &

technical proposals, preparing the technical specifications for different type of

fighting vehicles, appliances, equipment’s and rescue vehicles / equipment’s.

The commission therefore recommends creation ofone post Divisional officer

(Technical), one post of Assistant Divisional Officer (Technical) & two posts of

Driver Mechanics in the KF&RS Headquarters and four (04) posts of STOs (MT)

in Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Thrissur and Kannur districts.

8.2.3 COMMUNICATION WING:

The absence of communication wing in the Kerala Fire & Rescue Services

department is clearly telling upon the efficiency of the department. In fact near

total lack of computerisation in the department is also in a way reflection of

the disadvantages of not having a proper communication system / wing.

Therefore the establishment of a communication wing is highly necessary to

ensure seamless intra and inter communication needs of the department and

also pave the way for total computerisation of the department. Apart from the

communication systems to be devised as recommended in the chapter dealing

with the communications of this report, it is recommended that there should

be an officer of the rank of the Additional Divisional Officer and Station Officer

level to constitute a communication wing in the KF&RS Headquarters. The

communication wing will co‐ordinate the communication infra‐structures of

the department to ensure robust communication network till the last man

engaged in firefighting and rescue operation. The maintenance component of

communication assets also underlines the need for communication wing in the

KF&RS Headquarter. The computerisation initiatives have not been able to take

off in the KF&RS department mainly because there are no dedicated technically

savvy officers in the headquarters to guide and co‐ordinate the required efforts

in the direction of computerisation.

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The commission therefore recommends the creation of posts of one

Additional Divisional Officer (Communication), one Station Officer

(Communication), one post of Leading Fireman and one post of FDCPO to

constitute a communication wing in the KF&RS Headquarters. The posts

ofAdditional Divisional Officer (Communication), Station Officer

(Communication),can be created either on deputation basis from Govt.

departments or direct recruitment. The eligibility criterion can be decided by

the Commandant General KF&RS department and Home department. This

wing will be responsible for establishing a robust communication system and

guide the computerisation effort of the KF&RS department.

There is need to open a control room in the KF&RS headquarters and this

control room will be organized by the ADO (Communications) under the

supervision of Director (Operation). The finer details of the establishment and

running of the control room in the KF&RS headquarters may be decided by the

Commandant General, KF&RS department according to organisational

requirement.

8.2.4 FIRE PREVENTION WING:

The fire prevention work is another important work of KF&RS department and

all formations of the department from the STO to Commandant General are

involved in this work.

The fire prevention aspect of duties also comprises the advisory role of the

Kerala Fire & Rescue Services Department by strict compliance of the

guidelines on fire protection measures for high rise building, factories, and

places of Public resort and organizing of fairs and festivals to ensure that they

conform to regulations contained in various Acts and Rules for fire preventive

measures.

The fire prevention duties of the department are governed by Kerala Municipal

Building Rules 1999 and Kerala Panchayath Building Rules 2011. The

Commandant General KF&RS department also has to issue NOC for the

construction of buildings above 24 meters height according to Kerala Govt.

orders. The recent trend of going vertical due to space crunch and necessity of

modern day living / security considerations there is huge demand for multi

storey buildings; as a result there is sharp increase in the NOC applications to

be issued by the KF&RS headquarters. The processing of the NOC applications

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in the KF&RS headquarters is presently done by a committee headed by either

Director (Technical) or Director (Administration) based on the site inspection

report of Divisional Officers concerned and put up to Commandant General

KF&RS department for orders. There are often delays in issuing NOCs from the

headquarters and no other executive cadre officer other than Director

(Technical/ Administration) available to Commandant General, KF&RS

department for causing further verification on any NOC application to be

decided either by Commandant General KF&RS department or the DOs /ADOs.

It is a serious handicap under which the Commandant General, Fire & Rescue

Services Department has to work. This inhibits the Commandant General,

KF&RS department from conducting any meaningful enquiries in to the

complaints regarding issue of NOCs. Issuing of NOCs is not the only work under

fire prevention programme. The department needs to take up awareness

campaign regarding fire prevention and detection and safety issues in the

society and schools. The status of such initiative at present is negligible. Even

the observance of Fire Day is very lukewarm due to weak awareness campaign

of the department. The checking of existing firefighting arrangements

especially in the high rise buildings, cinema houses, schools, hospitals, shopping

complexes (Malls) and SSI units which is very important from the fire

prevention perspective is rarely done due to lack of staff in the KF&RS

headquarters, inadequacy of the officers at the level of Divisional Officers and

Assistant Divisional Officers.

The fire prevention wing in the headquarters will also conduct fire investigation

in any incident deemed necessary by the Government and Commandant

General,KF&RS Department.

Therefore in order to strengthen the monitoring of issuance of NOCs of

buildings in the KF&RS headquarters and in the offices of DOs / ADOs, fire

prevention awareness / education programs and checking of firefighting

equipment’s in the buildings; the commission recommends the creation of the

posts of One Divisional Officer, one Assistant Divisional Officer, one STO, one

LF, and two FDCPOs in the Kerala Fire & Rescue Services Headquarters in the

fire prevention wing on priority basis.

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The failures and lacunae witnessed at present in the working of the KF&RS

headquarters can be easily attributed to its present in adequate organisational

structure which does not allow it to fulfil its responsibility.

8.2.5 The new Provisioning Wing, Technical Wing, Communication Wing, Fire

Prevention Wing in the KF&RS headquarters along with the streamlining /

rationalization of procurement / purchase procedures proposed in another

chapter of this report will not only provide necessary fillip to rejuvenate the

sagging morale of the KF&RS department as a whole but shall energize the

KF&RS headquarters in discharging its duties in a manner befitting the role of

the headquarters of the department in all administrative and operational

matters.

8.3 DIVISION OF WORK OF KF&RS HEADQUARTERS IN TWO DIRECTORATES:

It is therefore proposed that there will be two Directorates (i.e. Operations

Directorate and Administration Directorate) in the KF&RS headquarters under

the direct command, control and supervision of the Commandant General.

8.3.1 OPERATION DIRECTORATE:

The Operations Directorate will be in charge of all the subordinate offices and

fire stations of the department. The present Director (technical) shall be re‐designated as Director (Operations) and will be head of the operations

directorate. Some of the major duties and functions of the Director

(Operations) will be as following:

i. Direct supervision and co‐ordination of all the firefighting and

rescue operations in the state.

ii. Field visits and inspections of field sub ordinate offices and fire

stations.

iii. Supervise the work of the field DOs, ADOs and fire stations.

iv. Fire prevention works of the department viz; processing of

building NOC applications in KF&RS headquarters, awareness /

education programs of department and physical inspection of

firefighting arrangements in the buildings. The licenses and their

renewals etc. The newly proposed Fire Prevention wing in the KF&RS headquarters will therefore function under him.

OMC‐KSJ Page124

v. Handling matters regarding the establishing of new Fire and

Rescue Stations, ensuring basic infrastructure, liaison with other

departments etc.

vi. All Stand By Duties, Ceremonial Parades, Public Functions, Festival

celebrations, Important Day celebrations, etc

vii. Audit and Inspections

viii. Rewards and medal recommendations

ix. Mobilizations and Deployment of Appliances and Equipment’s

from within and outside agencies for any emergencies

x. Co‐ordination with NDMA, NDRF, SDMA, SDRF, Revenue

department, Police department and other outside agencies

xi. Research and analysis of firefighting and rescue operations and

issues

xii. Organizing seminars, demonstrations, mock exercises etc for the

preparedness of the fire stations and public awareness purposes.

8.3.2 ADMINISTRATION DIRECTORATE:

The Administration Directorate will be in charge of all administrative matters

and subjects of department in the KF&RS headquarters. The present Director

(Administration) shall continue to be called as Director (Administration) and

will be head of the administration directorate. Some of the major duties and

functions of the Director (Operations) will be as following:

i. All Service Matters in the headquarters: Transfer and Postings,

SPARK Admn, Promotion, Departmental Enquiries & Punishments,

GPAIS Claims, etc

ii. All purchases & procurements of the department. The newly

proposed Provisioning wing in the KF&RS headquarters will therefore function under him.

iii. All the repairs and maintenance work of the department. The

newly proposed Technical wing in the KF&RS headquarters will therefore function under him.

iv. Communications and computerization of the department. The

newly proposed Communication wing in the KF&RS headquarters will therefore function under him.

v. Budgeting: Fund allotment, demands for additional funds and re‐

appropriation.

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vi. Management of Welfare and Amenity Fund and other welfare

measures in the department.

vii. Preparation of modernization and infra‐structure development

schemes of the department.

viii. Preparing proposals periodically to modify outdated systems, after

collecting feedback from Dos, ADOs and STOs

ix. Sorting, Analyzing and Issuing necessary standing orders /

instructions based on letters, orders and circulars from Govt.,

Courts, Tribunals, Commissions and other statutory bodies.

x. All correspondences of and with KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur

and training institutions inside and outside state (NFSC, Nagpur

etc) for training purposes of KF&RS officers /personnel.

xi. Cash & bill branches of KF&RS headquarters

xii. The Fair Copy section of the KF&RS headquarters

xiii. The store section /branch

If any section or branch of KF&RS headquarters is omitted from the above

distribution of works between the Administration and Operation directorates

then the Commandant General KF&RS department should do the further

distribution of such sections and branches.

The existing Chief Store shall be dissolved and merged with the newly proposed

Provisioning wing under Administrative Directorate.

It is further clarified that the Administration and Operation directorates will

function under the direct command, control and supervision of Commandant

General KF&RS department for all purposes. The Commandant General KF&RS

department will be the final arbiter/authority of all administrative and

operational matters.

8.4 REVAMPMING OF MINISTERIAL WING IN KF&RS HEADQUARTERS:

8.4.1 The above mentioned re‐structuring of KF&RS headquarters will not be

complete without corresponding re‐vamping of headquarters ministerial

wing. The present strength of ministerial staff of KF&RS headquarters

shall be suitably distributed among the Administration and Operation

directorates according to the work load and few more ministerial staff

will also have to be created for making the KF&RS headquarters efficient

and responsive.

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8.4.2 The present section wise details of works in the KF&RS Headquarters are as follows:

A1‐ Establishment matters of officers to the rank of Asst. Station officer and above A2‐ Establishment matters of Fireman, Leading Fireman A3‐ Establishment matters of Ministerial Staffs A4‐ Establishment matters of Fireman Driver, Driver Mechanic B1‐ Budget matters B2‐ Loans, Advances, IFMA etc. C1‐ Bills and SB of Headquarters staff D1‐Modernisation related subjects D2‐Repair of Vehicles and Equipments E1‐Audit F1‐ Purchase of Vehicles and Equipments G1‐ Issue of No objection Certificate H1‐Inward & Despatch R1‐ Records and Miscellaneous

8.4.3The present file routing system in the KF&RS Headquarters,

Thiruvananthapuram is as follows.

Legends: CG‐Commandant General, DA‐Director Administration, AO‐Administrative Officer, SS‐Senior Superintendent, HA‐Head Accountant

8.4.4The proposed rearrangement of sections of KF&RS Head Quarters is as

follows:

CG DA

AO JS

A1

A2

A3

A4

B1

B2

E1SS

C1

D1

D2

F1

H1

R1

HA G1

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Establishment Wing:

A1‐ Establishment matter of officers to the rank of Asst. Station officer and above

A2‐ Establishment matter Fireman A3‐ Establishment matter Ministerial Staff, Home Guard. A4‐ Establishment matter Fireman Driver A5‐ Establishment matter Leading Fireman, Driver Mechanic Accounts Wing:

B1‐Budget B2‐Loans and Advances B3‐Bills B4‐Audit 1 B5‐ Audit 2 and Inspection Technical Wing: C1‐Modernization of this department C2‐ Repairs of Vehicles and Equipments C3‐ Purchase of Vehicles C4‐ Purchase of Equipments and e‐tender C5‐ NOC Tapal Wing: D1‐ Inward D2‐ Despatch D3‐ Record Fair Copy Section: This section will be responsible for of all types of type writing works and consist of typists under control of Fair Copy Superintendent.

OMC‐KSJ Page128

8.4.5The following restructuring of the ministerial wing in KF&RS Hqrs is proposed:

8.4.5 The above proposed re‐structuring of ministerial wing in the KF&RS

headquarters would involve creation of the additional posts of Accounts Officer

(1 number) in the grade of Manager existing pay scale of 22360‐37940, Junior

Superintendent (2 numbers) in the existing pay scale of 16180‐29180, Clerks (6

numbers) in the existing pay scale of 9940‐16580, Record Keeper (1 number) in

the pay scale of 9940‐16580, and Office Attendant (2 numbers) in the pay scale

of 8730‐13540.

8.4.6The need for the post of an Accounts Officerin the grade of Manager is

deeply felt as there is no senior post in the KF&RS, Headquarters to properly

guide the section clerks and advise the Commandant General, KF&RS,

Department in accounts/financial matters. This will be the promotion post for

the senior most Senior Superintendent of the KF&RS department.

8.4.7The creation of the 2 posts of Junior Superintendent is being proposed as there is only one post of Junior Superintendent in the KF&RS Headquarters

which is not at all sufficient for ensuring the proper supervision of the works of

clerks.

8.4.8The 6 posts of clerksarebeing proposed keeping in view the proposed creation of ‘Provisioning Wing’, ‘Technical wing’ and ‘Fire Prevention Wing’ in

the KF&RS Headquarters.

8.4.9There is no body in the KF&RS Headquarters to keep the records of the

department in proper order and retrieve them whenever needed. The

maintenance of records in the KF&RS Headquarters is in total shambles.

Accounts Officer in the grade of Manager

Senior Superintendant

Junior Superintendant

Technical Wing


Accounts Wing


Establishment wing and Thapal Wing

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Therefore one post of Record Keeper is suggested.The post of record keeper will be the promotion post for the office Attendants.

8.4.10The post of 2 numbers Office Attendants is in keeping with the general

restructuring of the KF&RS Headquarters.

8.5A number of new posts have been proposed in this chapter as part of the

re‐structuring of KF&RS Headquarters. The summary of the new posts to be

created in the KF&RS Headquarters, Thiruvananthapuram as part of its

modernization plan is furnished below.

Sl. No.

New Posts to be created in KF&RS

Hqrs.

Provisioning

Wing

Technical W

ing

Communication

Wing

Fire Prevention

wing

Ministerial W

ing

Total

1. Divisional Officer 1 1 ‐ 1 ‐ 3

2. Assistant Divisional

Officer 2 1 1 1 ‐ 5

3. Station Officer 2 * 1 1 ‐ 4

4. Leading Fireman 2 ‐ 1 1 ‐ 4

5. Driver Mechanic ‐ 2 ‐ ‐ ‐ 2

6. Fire man Driver cum Pump

Operator (FDCPO) 2 ‐ 1 2 ‐ 5

7. Accounts Officer in

the grade of Manager

‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ 1 1

8. Junior Superintendent ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ 2 2

9. Clerks ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ 6 6

10. Record Keeper ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ 1 1

11. Office Attendant ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ 2 2

OMC‐KSJ Page130

Total 9 4* 4 6 12 35

* In addition to the above it is also recommended to create 4 more post of STOs

(MT) at Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Thrissur and Kannur to strengthen the

technical wing in the KF&RS department.

It is further clarified that the distribution of sections as suggested above is

though quite rational but if any subject is not coverd above that can be

assigned new section or can be allotted to the any one of the existing section.

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CHAPTER‐9

‘STREAMLINING / RATIONALISATION

OF PROCUREMENT PROCEDURES’

OMC‐KSJ Page132

9. STREAMLINING / RATIONALISATION OF PROCUREMENT PROCEDURES:

9.1 The streamlining / rationalisation of procurement procedures for the high

end and strategic firefighting and rescue equipments is the dire necessity of the

hour to salvage the reputation of the KF&RS department. The efficiency of

Firefighting and Rescue Operation greatly depends upon the condition and

quality of vehicles, appliances and equipment’s used. Hence the standard of

the vehicles, appliances and equipment’s should be ensured during the time of

procurement itself followed by strong repair and maintenance mechanism. The

streamlining / rationalisation of procurement procedure are therefore crucial

to ensure quality strategic firefighting and rescue equipment’s. The following

actions are recommended for rationalisation of procurement procedures.

9.1.1The Store Purchase Manual should be applicable for the purchases of

office stationary items, office machinery, computers & accessories, general

communication equipment’s, general duty motor vehicles like motor

cycles/jeeps/cars/buses/trucks, ambulances, tyres and furniture’s etc.

9.1.2 The general firefighting vehicles / equipment’s and rescue vehicles /

equipment’s manufactured in compliance to BIS /ISS standard can also be

governed by the Store Purchase Manual procedures.

9.1.3 The specialised and technologically advanced equipment’s which fall in

the category of highly expensive strategic firefighting and rescue equipment’s

like Breathing Apparatus Set, SCUBA Set, Arial ladders (Sky Lift, TTL, Hydraulic

Platforms etc.), Zero Torque Branch, Hydraulic Rescue Equipments, Power

Ascenders, Chain Saws, Power Cutters, Tower Lights, and host of other

firefighting / rescue equipments used in fire & rescue servicess are

manufactured in foreign countries following different standards. Most of these

equipments are not BIS/ISS standard compliant. The procurement of expensive

strategic firefighting and rescue equipment’s therefore should be taken out of

the purview of Store Purchase Manual and following procedure are

recommended to be adopted for the procurement /purchase of expensive

strategic firefighting and rescue equipment’s be.

Most of the expensive strategic firefighting and rescue

equipment’s are not BIS/ISS standard compliant and

manufactured in foreign countries and traded through Indian

partner firms with different features and facility, there is inherent

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difficulty in deciding common technical specifications to be

followed by all manufacturing companies.

The technical committee shall be constituted by the

Commandant General KF&RS department for deciding the

technical specifications in broad and general terms. This technical

committee shall consist of departmental officers working in the

proposed provisioning / technical /communication / Fire

Prevention wings in the KF&RS headquarters and field officers.

The technical committee constituted for such expensive strategic

equipments should summarise the requirement for any particular

equipment in general terms with few major and common

technical features rather than prescribing minute technical

specification details of the equipment. Describing of minute

technical specifications invariably ends up favouring product of a

particular manufacturing company / firm for simple reason that

no two companies/firms follow same standard of specifications.

There are European standard, American standards, Japanese

standard and Korean standard etc. The manufacturing companies

follow the country specific standards. This is most pronounced in

the case of Sky Lift, TTL and Hydraulic Platforms etc. The

experience of purchasing such equipments in the past has

revealed this truth. The transparency and probity in such

procurement is therefore severely compromised at the time of

deciding technical specification itself.

We should therefore adopt ‘two bid systems’ in the procurement

of expensive strategic firefighting equipments. The tenders for

such equipments should be invited with major and common

technical features of the equipment and two bids (i.e. technical

bid and financial / price bid) in separate double sealed covers

shall be invited with usual terms and conditions according to the

departmental requirements.

The tenders will be opened by a committee consisting of

Commandant General, one Director of KF&RS Hqrs, one DO from

field, and Administrative Officer of the KF&Rs Hqrs. The tenders

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will be opened in the presence of the tenderers or the authorised

representative of the company/firm. The tenders of those who

fail to attend the tender opening either in person or through

authorised representative shall be summarily disqualified. This

committee will separate the technical and financial / price bids

and Commandant General KF&RS department shall keep them in

separate sealed covers in his personal custody.

Another technical committee consisting of senior technical

experts from within the department and outside shall be

constituted by the Commandant General KF&RS Department

according to the requirement of the equipment to open the

technical bid first. The technical committee as a whole shall verify

and scrutinise the technical brochure of the product specifying

the details of technical specifications of the equipment and then

physically inspect the equipment with reference to the technical

specifications offered by the tenderer. The technical committee

shall after detailed scrutiny of technical specifications and

physical verifications of the equipment offered by tenderers will

shortlist the equipment’s in the category of ‘technically accepted’

and ‘technically not accepted’ according to the requirement of

the department.

The financial / price bid in respect of only those firms whose

products qualify to be in the technically accepted category will

alone be opened by a committee of Commandant General and

one Director of KF&RS Hqrs, one DO from field, and

Administrative Officer of the KF&Rs Hqrs in the presence of the

tenderers or the authorised representative of the company/firm.

It is the technical suitability / superiority of the equipment

according to the department’s requirement that will tilt the

selection in its favour and not the lowest price bid among the

competitors in the category of technically accepted tenders. This

way we can ensure the high quality of the equipment.

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The Commandant General KF&RS department can also conduct

price negotiation with the firm whose product is found most

suited in the technical evaluation.

The report of technical committee and financial / price bids of

those firms found technically accepted along with price

negotiation conducted if any; will be forwarded by Commandant

General, KF&RS department to the Home department for

consideration and decision of the Departmental Purchase

Committee headed by Home Secretary to the Government.

Alternatively; the KF&RS department can also adopt search, scout

and select route without following the tender inviting route in

case of very highly specialised equipment’s like Sky Lift, TTL,

Hydraulic Platforms and emergency rescue tenders because there

are few European and other foreign country firms that are

manufacturing these equipment’s. There are no indigenous firms

manufacturing such high end value strategic firefighting

equipment’s. The Commandant General, KF&RS department can

constitute a technical committee consisting of senior technical

experts from within the department and outside for such highly

specialised equipment’s. The technical committee will be tasked

to conduct the technical evaluation and physical verification of

these highly specialised and expensive equipment’s

manufactured by few select firms and shortlist the most suitable

of them for procurement. The Commandant General, KF&RS

department can also negotiate about the price with selected

firm(s). The proposal then will be forwarded to the Home

department for consideration and decision of the Departmental

Purchase Committee headed by Home Secretary to the

Government. This procedure will reduce the time of procurement

and ensure procurement of the equipment most suited to the

departmental needs. But this procedure as said above can be

applied only for the procurement / purchase of the Sky Lift, TTL,

Hydraulic Platforms and Emergency Rescue Tenders fitted with

state of the art rescue equipment’s for various rescue situations

including NBC accidents. This procedure also demands courage,

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honesty and fortitude of highest order at administrative and

political level to take decisions.

The members of all the technical committees constituted for all

purchases should be of highest integrity and probity.

There shall be different members for all the technical committees

to be constituted by the Commandant General, KF&RS

department in the various stages of procurement of any

expensive strategic firefighting and rescue equipment’s.

9.1.4 Other important issue to be addressed to ensure the quality and assured

service from the equipment is the long guarantee period and timely

replacement of spare parts & maintenance of the equipment after the expiry of

the guarantee period. Therefore the long guarantee period and annual

maintenance contract for spare parts & maintenance thereafter should be

incorporated in the purchase deal itself especially in the case of purchase

/procurement of high end value expensive strategic firefighting and rescue

equipment’s.

9.1.5 The purchase /procurement deal should also have the provision of

training of departmental personnel in the operation and maintenance protocol

of the high end value expensive strategic firefighting and rescue equipment’s at

the cost of the supplier of the equipment. The Commandant General KF&RS

department should ensure training of all the STOs (MT), selected DOs / ADOs

/STOs, maximum number of FDCPOs including all the Driver mechanics and

randomly selected LFs / Firemen by the supplier firm.

9.1.6 All the STOs(MT), selected DOs / ADOs / STOs, maximum number of

FDCPOs including all the Driver mechanics and randomly selected LFs / Firemen

shall also be given training regarding safe operation procedures and

maintenance of a new Equipment or Appliance or vehicles purchased.

9.1.7 The tender notices and supply orders of the high end value expensive

strategic firefighting& rescue vehicles, appliances and equipment’s, should be

legally vetted before issue to avoid any legal liability or other infirmities in

purchase of the equipment. The reasonable guarantee period, replacement of

spare parts, repair & maintenance of equipment, penalties, pre‐supply survey /

physical verification by a board of officers constituted by the Commandant

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General KF&RS department and training of KF&RS departmental personnel by

supplier etc should be negotiated before issue of supply order and

incorporated in the final supply order for the equipment.

9.1.8 The Store Purchase Manual should be suitably amended /modified by

adding a clause to the effect that ‘purchase of high end value expensive

strategic firefighting vehicles, appliances, equipment’s, and rescue vehicles &

equipment’s purchased by Kerala Fire and Rescue Services shall be excluded

from the stipulation of lowest price quotation / tender. Such firefighting&

Rescue vehicles, appliances and equipment’s shall be purchased solely on the

basis of technical suitability / superiority and not on the basis of lowest price

quotation / tender. The Commandant General KF&RS department shall be the

authority to define and certify whether a particular equipment falls in the

category of high end value expensive strategic firefighting vehicles, appliances,

equipment’s, and rescue vehicles & equipment’s or not’.

9.1.9 There is need to create a ‘Provisioning wing’ in the KF&RS Headquarters

to ensure transparency and objectivity in the procurement / purchasing

system.

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CHAPTER‐10

‘COMMUNICATION

INFRA‐STRUCTURE/ SYSTEM’

OMC‐KSJ Page139

10. COMMUNICATION INFRA‐STRUCTURE / SYSTEM:

10.1 The communication infra‐structure / facility available in the KF&RS

department are highlighted below:

10.1.1 The fixed land lines telephone connections are available at following

offices of the department.

KF&RS Headquarters Thiruvananthapuram,

KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur

Divisional Office Headquarters at Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, and

Kozhikode

101 Fire & Rescue Stations spread across the state.

The 14 Assistant Divisional Officers (ADOs); functioning / acting as

District Officers in KF&RS department from the district headquarters are

not sanctioned the fixed land line connections. The ADO offices are the

most important offices discharging many vital administrative and

operational duties. This is the first level of supervisory office above Fire &

Rescue Stations. Such vital offices are also without fixed land line

connectivity in KF&RS department.

Even the Divisional Office Headquarters at Kottayam and Palakkad have

not been sanctioned with fixed land lines connection so far.

The DOs Kottayam / Palakkad and all 14 ADOs have somehow hooked

their office communication requirements with the district headquarter

Fire &Rescue Station fixed land line telephones for the sake of

expediency as their offices are housed in the same buildings.

10.1.2 The fax facility is available at KF&RS Headquarters Thiruvananthapuram,

KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur, Divisional Offices Thiruvananthapuram /

Ernakulam / Kozhikode connected to the sanctioned office fixed land line

telephone. In all the 14 ADOs the fax facility is through the official fixed land

line telephone of the district Headquarters Fire & Rescue Stations as their

offices are housed in the same buildings. But the fax facility is not functioning.

This means of communication should be maintained all the time for instant

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sending of messages and documents. The Fire & Rescue stations are not having

the fax facility.

10.1.3 The mobile CUG BSNL connectivity is available to all the officers of and

above the rank of ASTO in the KF&RS department.

10.2 Present Inadequacy:

10.2.1 No communication wing in the KF&RS department. No wireless

connectivity available in the KF&RS department. No connectivity between the

Fire &Rescue Stations and Firefighting vehicles except CUG and personal

mobile phones of firefighting personnel.

10.2.2 The absence of communication wing in the Kerala Fire & Rescue Services

department is clearly telling upon the efficiency of the department. Therefore

the establishment of a communication wing is highly necessary to ensure

seamless intra and inter communication needs of the department.

10.3 First step:

10.3.1 The Kerala Fire &Rescue Services Department should have the following communication facility / system.

The fixed land line telephone connectivity should be provided to

the offices of DOs Kottayam / Palakkad and all 14 ADOs offices in

the district headquarters.

Internet facility should be provided to all the101 operational Fire

& rescue stations, 14 ADO offices and 5 DO offices of the KF&RS

department so that e‐mail communication can be established in

the department.

All the Fire & Rescue Stations in the state should be provided with

separate emergency telephone connection number 101 for

avoiding delay in communication during emergency.

Hotlines connecting Fire & Rescue Stations with major Industrial,

commercial and other strategically important establishments

should be provided.

Video Conferencing Facility should be provided connecting

Assistant Divisional Offices, Divisional Offices and Commandant

General Office.

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Laptops may be provided to Officers of and above the rank of

Assistant Divisional Officers.

Megaphones can be provided to be used during firefighting and

rescue operations. It can also be used for keeping the mob away

from the affected area firefighting and rescue.

The fire stations and firefighting vehicles should be equipped with

communication devices. The following communication

equipment’s are recommended for the fire stations.

i. Static Wireless Set (VHF): One set at each Fire Station

ii. Mobile Wire Set (VHF): One per vehicle

iii. Hand Held Set (Walky‐Talky): 5 per vehicle

iv. Megaphone: Two per Fire Station

10.4 Next Step:

10.4.1 The communication between the officer in charge of the firefighting /

rescue operation (incident commander) and others in the team and the fire

stations can be taken care by the above communication arrangement /

equipment’s. But another unexplored area of communication in the fire &

rescue services is the communication between the fire fighter or rescuer and

the incident commander on the spot for proper coordination of firefighting and

rescue operations. Nobody has cared to explore this crucial aspect of

communication in firefighting and rescue operations. At present the fire fighter

or rescuer has to come out of the actual scene of firefighting / rescue to convey

any change of tactics or seeking reinforcement etc. and then rush to the actual

scene of fire or rescue. This causes loss of crucial time and leads to inefficiency.

The situation could be salvaged better if there is some on line communication

system between the incident commander and the actual fire fighter /rescuer.

This requirement could perhaps be met by one to one communication system

discussed below.

10.4.2.One to One Communication:

This system could be useful between the incident commander and fire

fighter/rescuer and during night hours. In this system one base unit will have to

be installed in each vehicle of the fire station. Hand Free wireless sets with

headsets will be issued to the crew members of each vehicle. In this system

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communication is possible within a radius of 1km of the Base Unit installed in

the vehicle. The advantages of this system are as following.

1. Less cost effective when compared to VHF / UHF wireless system.

2. No Repeater Towers are required.

3. Easy to operate, maintain and repair.

10.4.3. Requirements for one to one system:

License should be obtained from wireless planning & co‐ordination wing,

Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, Department of

Telecommunication (www.wpc.dot.gov.in) with Southern Regional Office at

Chennai and Monitoring Station in Kerala at Nettayam, Thiruvananthapuram.

For operation one person has to be deputed for handling the Base Unit.

He will control the messages from each sets given to others. For example, if the

man who is doing the Firefighting or Rescue Operation needs to convey a

message to any other crew member at a distance, then he will pass his

intension through the Control Unit and Control Unit will make the receiver

crew member ready to receive the message without other’s interference.

For the effective functioning of one to one system, a minimum of 10 wireless

sets should be given to each station. All the wireless sets should be with

headsets so that the rescuer or Fire Fighter need not hold the wireless sets.

There are two variants in headsets. One type with pressing a button to receive

signal and another version which automatically get activated when talking

begins (Sound sensing type). The second version is the most suitable one for

Fireman

with

Wireless set

Pump operator

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this department as the hands of the Fire Fighter or Rescuer are not free for

operating wireless sets.

10.4.4 TRAINING: No system can work properly without adequate training. The

departmental personnel will have to be trained in operation of the wireless

sets, and to act as the controller of Base Unit and for the proper functioning of

this communication system. One Fireman can be deputed as the controller of

the Base Unit after giving proper training. Only one Base Unit and 1 incident

commander (Officer In charge of fire / rescue operation) will be enough for all

the wireless sets at one incident spot, even if many Turn‐outs are present at

there.

10.4.5 The Commandant General, KF&RS Department should therefore conduct

proper study of this crucial aspect of operational communication relevant to

fire & emergency services and adopt the one to one communication systems

discussed above if found feasible on further scrutiny by communication

experts.

10.5 COMMUNICATION WING IN THE KF&RS HEADQUARTERS:

10.5.1 It is therefore recommended that there should be an officer of the rank

of the Additional Divisional Officer and Station Officer level to constitute a

communication wing in the KF&RS Headquarters. The communication wing will

co‐ordinate the communication infra‐structures of the department to ensure

robust communication network till the last man engaged in firefighting and

rescue operation. The maintenance component of communication assets also

underlines the need for communication wing in the KF&RS Headquarter. The commission therefore recommends the creation of posts of one Additional Divisional Officer (Communication), one Station Officer (Communication), one post of Leading Fireman and one post of FDCPO to constitute a communication wing in the KF&RS Headquarters. The posts ofAdditional Divisional Officer (Communication), Station Officer (Communication),can be created either on

deputation basis from Govt. departments or direct recruitment. The eligibility

criterion can be decided by the Commandant General KF&RS department and

Home department. This wing will be responsible for establishing a robust

communication system and also guide the computerisation effort of the KF&RS

department.

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10.5.2 It is also recommended that one qualified communication fireman

should be made available in all the district fire & rescue services office for the

maintenance of wireless sets of all the fire stations of that District.

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CHAPTER‐11

‘E‐GOVERNANCE INITIATIVE AND A BLUE PRINT FOR TOTAL

COMPUTERIZATION OF DEPARTMENT’

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11. E‐GOVERNANCE INITIATIVE AND A BLUE PRINT FOR TOTAL COMPUTERIZATION OF DEPARTMENT:

11.1 Introduction: 11.1.1 The present status of computerisation in KF&RS department is at

abysmal level. There is absolutely no delivery of any services through e‐

government initiative in the KF&RS department. The department is still

struggling to provide fixed line connectivity to all of its offices. The total

computerisation is a far cry for this neglected department. The status of

communication and computerisation infra‐structure is discussed below.

11.1.2 Present Status:

11.1.3The official e‐mail ID has been provided to KF&RS Headquarters

Thiruvananthapuram, KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur, all Divisional Officers

and all Assistant Divisional Officers of the KF&RS department. The Fire &Rescue

Stations have not been issued with official e‐mail ID. The internet connections

are available at following offices of the department.

KF&RS Headquarters Thiruvananthapuram

KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur

Divisional Office Headquarters at Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, and

Kozhikode

Divisional Office Headquarters at Kottayam and Palakkad and all 14

ADOs have taken net connection through the district Headquarters Fire

& Rescue Stations land line telephone connections as their offices are

housed in the same buildings.

11.1.4 The computers are available in KF&RS Headquarters Thiruvananthapuram, KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur and in the offices of all the Divisional Officers and Assistant Divisional Officers of the KF&RS department. But no computers have been sanctioned to Fire & Rescue Stations. The computers are working as standalone devices /systems in all the offices of KF&RS department. There is no LAN even in KF&RS Headquarters Thiruvananthapuram. The computers are being used in KF&RS department mainly for typing, printing and sending e‐mails purposes. The availability of computers in KF&RS department is as following.

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KF&RS Headquarters Thiruvananthapuram‐ 18 computers The KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur ‐ 4 computers. The 5 DO offices ‐ 4 computers each ADO offices ‐ 2 computers each Fire &Rescue Stations ‐ Nil

11.1.5 A mandatory e‐governance initiative sponsored by Govt. of Kerala called SPARK regarding salary, service and administrative matters is being implemented in the department with the help of computers. This is the only e‐governance initiative in operation in the department. 11.1.6 The KF&RS department is so sluggish and laggard that it has not yet devised its own web site for public interface. Some action was taken in this regard towards the end of financial year 2012‐13 and part money was also deposited in the C‐Dit, which was entrusted with the task of development of official web site of the KF&RS department but it is understood that the matter has not progressed further. The Commandant General should immediately look into this and complete the process of completing the creation of web site for the KF&RS department. This is the first step towards the e‐governance initiative of the department. 11.2 Scope: 11.2.1 SCOPE OF E‐GOVERNANCE AND COMPUTERISATION IN THE KF&RS DEPARTMENT:

Speedy delivery of services

Submission of various reports in time

Speedy delivery of intra / inter communications within and outside the organisation

Transparency and reduction of delays in departmental purchases and issuance of NOC’s etc

Transparency and reduction of delays in internal office processes: Tracking of office files etc

Achieve paperless environment in the department

Creation of public user‐friendly organizational environment

Increase overall efficiency of the department

Creation of Data bank of departmental men, material and services for ready references for statutory, public and other requirements

Cost effective in long run

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11.3 Activities and Time line: 11.3.1 The above mentioned scope of e‐governance and computerisation of the KF&RS department will involve the following activities and the blue print for completion of these activities is discussed below.

a. The activities to be completed during the current financial year (2013‐14).

First and foremost action to be taken in any e‐governance initiative is to equip all the field operational units, intermediary subordinate offices and headquarters with computers and necessary accessories. At present there are no computers sanctioned to the Fire & Rescue Stations which are the basic operational units of KF&RS department. The first thing to be done therefore is to sanction at least two computers with printers, scanners, photo copiers and other accessories along with internet connectivity to 101 Fire & Rescue Station of KF&RS department. Equipping of 101 Fire & Rescue Stations of KF&RS department with computers and accessories should therefore be done in the financial year 2013‐14 itself.

The KF&RS Hqrs Thiruvananthapuram and offices of DOs and ADOs are having bare minimum computers for the purpose of computerisation of the KF&RS department.

Divisional Office Headquarters at Kottayam and Palakkad and all 14 ADOs have not been sanctioned the fixed land line telephone connection so far. Therefore these offices should be sanctioned office telephones for effective communication and net connectivity. This should be done in the financial year 2013‐14 itself.

Establishment of a computer lab in the Kerala Fire & Rescue Services Academy, Viyyur for the training purposes. For this at least fifteen (15) computers with printers, scanners and other accessories are to be sanctioned during 2013‐14.

Digitalisation of tender documents of all purchases made from

2008‐09 to 2013‐14 and e‐Tendering from 2013‐14 onwards.

Creation of web site for the KF&RS department. The website of Kerala Fire and Rescue Services shall have facilities for online submission of application of NOC’s and RTI act. It shall also have provision to submit various applications to concerned offices through the website. The right to service act pertaining to KF&RS department shall be published in the website. News

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regarding latest fire incident shall be uploaded here in addition to different departmental orders.

Development of software for digitalisation and online data

entry for various requirements of the KF&RS department. This

task of development of software for the department can be

entrusted to NIC / C‐Dit / Keltron because of their expertise in

this field.

Creation of digital signatures of all officers of and above the

ADOs by the end of 2013‐14.

Reviving of electronic punching system in the KF&RS

Headquarters with immediate effect.

b. The activities to be completed during the financial year 2014‐15.

Digitalisation of all the records pertaining to purchases and

maintenance of all types of general / firefighting / rescue

vehicles in the inventory of the department latest by the end

of 2014‐15 and on line data updation on regular basis

thereafter.

Digitalisation of all the records pertaining to purchases and

maintenance of all types of firefighting and rescue

equipments in the inventory of the department latest by the

end of 2014‐15 and on line data updation on regular basis

thereafter.

Digitalisation of service / training records of all serving KF&RS

personnel to be completed latest by September 2014 and on

line data updation on regular basis thereafter.

Digitalisation of the administrative reports / budget estimates

/ expenditure & savings statements / statements of receipts of

the departments for the years from 2008‐09 to 2014‐15 and

online data entry of these reports from 2014‐15 onwards

File tracking system in KF&RS Headquarters to be started from

the beginning of 2014‐15.

Generation and on line submission of all the periodical reports

as mandated in the Standing Orders of KF&RS Headquarters

by the Fire & Rescue Stations and consolidation / on line

submission at ADO / DO/ KF&RS Hqrs level during 2014‐15.

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Electronic punching system in subordinate offices during

2014‐15.

E‐Submission, processing and tracking of NOC applications for

buildings during the financial year 2014‐15.

c. The activities to be completed during the financial year 2014‐15.

Introduction of GPS system in every firefighting vehicles and

vehicle tracking system in the Fire & Rescue Station during 2015‐

16.

11.4 TRAINING: 11.4.1 A computer lab shall be established at Kerala Fire and Rescue Services Academy with at least fifteen (15) computers with printers, scanners and other accessories during this current year (i.e. 2013‐1415) for imparting training in computerisation programme of the KF&RS department as proposed above. 11.4.2 At least 30 Leading Firemen / Firemen including ministerial staff from different units shall be trained as ‘Master Trainers’ by the implementing agency in the departmental software and website for proper implementation of the e‐governance initiative as proposed above. These ‘Master Trainers’ shall be deployed at the KF&RS Headquarters Thiruvananthapuram and 5 Divisional Offices according to the actual requirement. 11.4.3 All the officers of and above the rank of ASTOs and the entire ministerial staff of the KF&RS Headquarters Thiruvananthapuram, 5 Divisional Offices, 14 Assistant Divisional Offices, all Fire & Rescue Stations shall be trained at the computer lab of the Kerala Fire and Rescue Services Academy by the Master Trainers. The training of above category of officers / personnel shall be completed within a period of 6 months prior to the implementation of the project. 11.4.4 After the launching of the project the leading firemen on the rolls of the department will be given training in batches at Kerala Fire and Rescue Services Academy in e‐governance programme. This e‐governance programme should also be included in all the in‐service courses of the department personnel. 11.4.5 It is also clarified that the master trainers shall be entrusted with the task of uploading the information’s in the website at the KF&RS Headquarters Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Fire and Rescue Services Academy, Viyyur and 5

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Division Offices. These master trainers will also monitor the progress of computerisation programme of the department at various levels.

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CHAPTER‐12

‘DELEGATION OF POWERS AND DECENTRALISATION’

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12.THE PREVAILING DELEGATION OF POWERS AND NEED FOR

FURTHER DECENTRALISATION TO MAKE THE DEPARTMENT MORE

EFFICIENT AND EFFECTIVE:

12.1Introduction:

12.1.1 The financial powers enjoyed at present by the Commandant General,

Divisional Officers, Assistant Divisional Officers of Kerala Fire and Rescue

Services department is still far from satisfactory. The head of the department

and other officers of emergency services like Kerala Fire and Rescue Services

need far more delegation of power compared to other departmental heads

because of the emergency nature of the job and the urgent need for

maintaining the firefighting appliances, vehicles and equipment’s in use / road

worthy conditions at all times needs no reiteration. Many firefighting vehicles

remain in unfit conditions for long periods due to delay in getting

administrative sanction for repairs from the government for the mechanical &

electrical repair works. The procedure for obtaining sanction for administrative

sanction even for small repairs from KF&RS Headquarters is also causing delays.

In the absence of immediate sanction for carrying repairs the vehicles have to

be garaged until the proper sanction is obtained. The long spell of garaging of

vehicles for want of administrative sanction for carrying repairs further

requires unforeseen repairs which are not included in the first estimate for

repairs. This ultimately leads to a situation where adequate numbers of

vehicles are not available for duty and thereby severely affecting the efficiency

of department.

12.1.2 The other dimension of the problem is that the cost of spare parts and

maintenance labour charges of firefighting appliances, vehicles and

equipment’s are increasing beyond imagination. Same is the story of furniture’s

and essential office equipment’s and stores. The cost of construction materials

and labour charges is also increasing at rate of 20 to 25 percent annually. There

is all‐round inflation impacting the cost of living and increase in the cost of

materials of all types and services. In such depressing scenario of all‐round

inflation and also of corruption it is almost impossible to keep ready the

firefighting appliances, vehicles and equipment’s use / road worthy at all times

with present level of delegation of power. And this affects the efficiency and

response time of emergency services like Kerala Fire and Rescue Services to

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render the required service at the nick of the time. The immediate

enhancement of delegation of financial powers to Commandant General,

Divisional Officers, Assistant Divisional Officers of Kerala Fire and Rescue

Services department is therefore of utmost urgency for ensuring effective

performance of the Department.

12.1.3 The existing financial powers exercised by the Commandant General,

Kerala Fire and Rescue Services department is in accordance with the G.O (MS)

No. 576/94/Fin Dated 19/10/94, G.O. (P) No. 350 / 2008 / Fin Dated

06/08/2008 and G.O. (P) No. 110 / 2013 / Fin Dated 01/03/2013. Even after the

recent increase in the financial powers of heads of departments vide G.O. (P)

No. 110 / 2013 / Fin Dated 01/03/2013, there is still need for further

enhancement of financial powers of Commandant General because of

emergency nature of the job profile of the KF&RS department. The following

delegation of power is recommended to Commandant General, Kerala Fire and

Rescue Services department.

12.2Delegation of Power:

12.2.1 PROPOSED DELEGATION OF POWERS TO COMMANDANT GENERAL:

Existing Powers Proposed Powers

1. a) Petty Expenses: Rs. 5000/‐

b)Non‐recurring contingent expenditure other than stores stationery, computer, furniture:

Rs.50000/‐ subject to budget provision

a) Rs. 20000/‐

b) To incur non‐recurring

contingent expenditure up to

one lakh rupees subject to

budget provision

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2. Purchase:

a) stationery:

Rs. 1 lakh subject to budget provision

b) Stores other than Computer and

Peripherals and Furniture: Rs. 20 Lakh

Vide Appendix XXII of Store purchase

manual and subject to budget provision.

a) Rs.2 lakh subject to budget

provision

b) Rs. 30 Lakh

3. Electrical installation and Rewiring of

Fire station Building:

Extension of electricity installations to

incur expenditure up to Twenty

thousand rupees.

To incur expenditure for

extensions of electric installations

to incur expenditure up to One

lakh rupees.

4. Repairing, Cleaning, Painting,

Varnishing of Furniture:

To incur expenditure for repairing,

cleaning, painting, varnishing of

furniture subject to an annual limit of

Twenty thousand rupees.

To incur expenditure for repairing,

cleaning, painting, varnishing of

furniture subject to an annual

limit of two lakh rupees.

5. Petty Construction, Repair and

Maintenance works of Government

Buildings:

To sanction maintenance and petty

construction and repair works for

execution up to five lakhs rupees on a

proper estimate in each case without

referring to the Public Works Dept.

To sanction maintenance and

petty construction and repair

works for execution uptoten lakhs

rupees on a proper estimate in

each case without referring to the

Public Works Dept.

6. Repair of department vehicles in un

approved workshops:

To accord sanction for repair of dept.

To accord sanction for repair of

dept. vehicles in unapproved work

shops where approved workshops

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vehicles in unapproved workshops

where approved workshops are not

available at a reasonable distance up to

Rs 5000/‐.

are not available at a reasonable

distance ( within 15 kms) up to Rs.

50000/‐

7 Works:

To accord administrative sanction for

estimate of works up to fifty lakhs

rupees in approved plans for quarters

and office buildings subject to budget

provision.

To accord administrative sanction

for estimate of works up to One

crore rupees in approved plans for

quarters and office

buildingswithout administrative

sanction from the Government.

8. Rewards:a) To sanction rewards to

fire and Rescue personnel up to the rank

of station officers Rs. 2000/‐ in any one

case subject to the condition that the

maximum reward to any one individual

will not exceed 500/‐.

b) Members of public

Up to 2500/‐ per head

To sanction rewards to fire and

Rescue personnel up to the rank

of station officers Rs. 25000/‐ in

any one case subject to the

condition that the maximum

reward to any one individual will

not exceed 5000/‐.

Up to 10000/‐ per head

9. Purchase of furniture (Wooden and

steel): To sanction purchase of

furniture(wooden and steel) up to two

lakhs rupees with administrative /

purchase sanction from the Government

as per G.O. (P) No. 224/2000/Fin. Dated

27‐01‐2000.

To sanction purchase of furniture

(wooden and steel) with an

annual limit up to ten lakhs

rupees without any administrative

/ purchase sanction from the

Government.

10. Repairs to Motor Vehicles&

firefighting /rescue equipments:

a) To sanction expenditure of repairs

including purchase of spare parts etc. for

departmental vehicles except

a)To sanction expenditure of

repairs including purchase of

spare parts etc. for general

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firefighting vehicles up to twenty

thousand rupees.

b) Fifteen thousand rupees in each case

with annual limit of Fifty thousand

rupees per firefighting vehicle subject to

availability of budget provision.

c) No limit prescribed at present for

repairs including purchase of spare parts

etc. for firefighting/ rescue and other

equipment’s.

purpose departmental vehicles

except firefighting vehicles up to

Rs. 100,000/‐ (one lakh rupees) in

each case with annual limit of

three lakhs per general purpose

departmental vehicle except

firefighting vehicles subject to

availabliaty of budjet provision.

b)Two lakh rupees in each case

with annual limit of fivelakhs

rupees per firefighting/ rescue

vehicles subject to availability of

budget provision.

c) One lakh rupees in each case

with annual limit of three lakhs

rupees per firefighting/rescue and

other equipment for repairs

including purchase of spare parts

etc.

11.Printing: To sanction printing charges up to fifty thousand rupees (In emergent cases printing work may be entrusted to private presses without reference to SGP not exceeding Rs. 1000/‐ at a time subject to an annual limit of Rs. 10000/‐)

To sanction printing charges up to

one lakh rupees (In emergent

cases printing work may be

entrusted to private presses

without reference to SGP not

exceeding Rs. 5000/‐ at a time

subject to an annual limit of Rs.

50000/‐).

12.Refreshment charges: To sanction refreshment charges not exceeding Rs. 2 per head subject to

Rs.100 at a time.

To sanction refreshment charges

not exceeding Rs. 100/‐ per head

subject to Rs.10000/‐ at a time.

13. Hiring/Renting of Buildings:

To sanction renting of private building

up to Rs 15000/‐p.m. in each case

To sanction of renting of private

building up to Rs. 50000/‐ p.m. in

each case subject to rent and non‐

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subject to rent and non‐availability

certificate from PWD and subject to

budget provision.

availability certificate from PWD

and subject to budget provision.

14. Leasing out in auction of the right to

collect usufructs from the trees in the

land/property of the Department:

Full powers delegated to Heads of

Departments following transparent and

competitive procedure. The amount

should be deposited in the relevant

revenue receipt Head of Account of

Department concerned.

The existing power should

continue. No change suggested.

15. Burial charges:

To sanction Rs1000/‐ in each case of

burial or cremation of those who belong

to Fire force and die while on duty.

To sanction in each case of burial

or cremation of those who belong

to Fire force and die while on duty

without any ceiling.

16.Binding Charges:

To accord sanction for payment of binding charges up to Rs.500/‐ at a time.

Limited to Rs.2000 a Year.

To accord sanction for payment of

binding charges up to Rs.5000/‐ at

a time.

Limited to Rs.25000/‐ a Year.

17. Purchase of Cycles:

To sanction for the purchase of new

Cycles.

Cycle as a mode of transport has

become outdated and should be

replaced by Motor Cycle. The

Commandant General, KF&RS

department should be given the

power to sanction the purchase of

new Motor Cycles up to the cost

of one lakh fifty thousand rupees

in each case subject to budget

provisions.

18. Disposal in Auction/ scrap disposal To sanction the disposal of all

unserviceable or surplus stores,

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other than vehicles:

To sanction the disposal of all

unserviceable or surplus stores, tools

and parts, office furniture, materials at

site of works, dismantled material etc.

as the case may be up to a book value of

three lakhs rupees in each case.

Attention invited to G.O. (MS) No.

223/12/Fin. Dated 17‐04‐2012.

tools and parts, office furniture,

materials at site of works,

dismantled material etc. as the

case may be without any ceiling

irrespective of the Book value.

19. Purchase of Books and Maps:

To sanction purchase of Books and Maps

up to Rs.2000/‐ at a time and annual

limit of Rs 20000/‐.

To sanction purchase of Books

and Maps up to Rs.10, 000/‐ at a

time and annual limit of Rs.100,

000/‐.

20. Leave:

The Heads of Departments may sanction

Leave Without Allowance under

Appendix XII A and XII C of Part I KSR

according to rules prevailing in the

matter.

No change suggested.

21. Write off:

Heads of Departments may sanction up to Rs.25000/‐ in each case with an

annual limit of one lakh rupees subject to the strict compliance of KFC Article 300‐303 and KFC Article 161of Vol. I

The commandant General, KF&RS, department may sanction any

amount without any annual limit subject to the strict compliance of

KFC Article 300‐303 and KFC Article 161 of Vol. I

22. Purchase of delivery hose for

firefighting, motor tyres and tubes

under DGS and D rate contract:

To accord sanction for purchase of

delivery hose for firefighting, motor

tyres and tubes under DGS and D rate

contract up to five lakhs rupees

To accord sanction for purchase of

delivery hose for firefighting,

motor tyres and tubes under DGS

and D rate contract up to twenty

five lakhs subject to annual limit

of fifty lakhs rupees.

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subjectto annual limit of ten lakhs

rupees.

23. Purchase of Mechanical foamCompound:

To sanction purchase of Mechanical

foam compound for the use of

firefighting up to Rs.3Lakh in each case

subject to annual limit of Rs.10 lakh.

To sanction purchase of

Mechanical foam compound for

the use of firefighting up to Rs.15

Lakh in each case subject to

annual limit of Rs.50 lakhs.

24. Purchase of cleaning materials:

To sanction purchase of cleaning

materials such as brasso,bar soap and

dungry cloth up to Rs.75000/‐ in each

case subject to annual limit of two lakhs

rupees.

To sanction purchase of cleaning

materials such as brasso, bar soap

and dungry cloth upto one lakh

rupees in each case subject to

annual limit of five lakhs rupees.

25. Ceremonial function:

To incur expenditure for each

ceremonial function up to Rs. 8000/‐

To incur expenditure for each

ceremonial function up to Rs.

25000/‐.

26. Condemnation of Government

vehicles;

Having upset value upto Rs. 1 lakh

subject to compliance of guidelines and

norms fixed in G.O.(MS) No. 110/76PWD

dtd 10/5/76.

Having upset value upto three

lakhs rupees subject to

compliance of guidelines and

norms fixed in G.O.(MS) No.

110/76PWD dtd 10/5/76.

27. Demolition of old & dilapidated

buildings:

To sanction demolition of old and

dilapidated buildings up to a limit of 3

lakhs rupees subject to availability of

survey report from PWD.

To sanction demolition of old and

dilapidated buildings up to a limit

of five lakhs rupees subject to the

availability of survey report from

PWD.

OMC‐KSJ Page161

28. AMC for computer,printer

photocopiers, machinery, lab

equipments, AC & all other electronic &

electrical equipments used for the

functioning of the offices.

Up to two lakhs rupees subject to

observance of Rules and procedures,

PWD or accredited agencies in the case

of other equipments/machineries and

subject to budget provision

Up to three lakhs rupees subject

to observance of Rules and

procedures, PWD or accredited

agencies in the case of other

equipments/machineries and

subject to budget provision.

29. shifting of Office

To incur charges up to Rs. 5000/‐ subject

to budget provision (loading and

unloading charges will be at the rate

fixed by Labour department). For other

items tender procedure should be

followed.

To incur charges up to Rs. 25000/‐

subject to budget provision

(loading and unloading charges

will be at the rate fixed by Labour

department).For other items

tender procedure should be

followed.

12.2.2It is to be mentioned hrer that the financial power of heads of

departments have been revised and increased in 2008 and 2013, but there has

been no corresponding revision and increase of financial powers of Divisional

and Assistant Divisional Officers of KF&RS departmentsince 1994. The level of

delegation of power in respect of Divisional and Assistant Divisional Officers of

KF&RS department is at the level prescribed vide G.O (MS) No. 576/94/Fin

Dated 19/10/94. The financial powers delegated to DOs and ADOs is abysmal

and totally inadequate to carry out even petty repairs of vehicles and repairs.

The substantial increase in their financial power is absolutely must if the

preparedness and efficiency of emergency service like KF&RS department is to

be ensured. The following delegation of power is proposed in respect of DOs

and ADOs of KF&RS department.

OMC‐KSJ Page162

12.2.3PROPOSED DELEGATION OF POWERS TO DIVISIONAL OFFICER:


1.Non recurring contingent ExpenditureTo incur non‐recurring contingent expenditure up to Rs2000/‐ in each case

To incur non‐recurring contingent expenditure up to Rs5000/‐ in each case.

2. Local Purchase of stationery articles To sanction purchase of stationery articles locally in urgent and unforeseen circumstances up to a limit of 500/‐ at a time subject to an annual limit of Rs 5000/‐

To sanction purchase of stationery

articles locally in urgent and

unforeseen circumstances up to a

limit of 5000/‐ at a time subject to

an annual limit of 25000/‐

3. Electrical installation and Rewiring of Fire station Building. To incur expenditure for electric installation and re‐wiring of Fire Station Building up to 5000/‐.

To incur expenditure for electric

installation and re‐wiring of Fire

Station Building up to 25000/‐.

4. Repairing, Cleaning, painting,

Varnishing of Furniture.

To accord sanction to incur expenditure

of repairing, cleaning, painting and

varnishing of furniture each up to Rs.

500/‐ at a time subject to an annual limit

of Rs. 5000/‐.

To accord sanction to incur

expenditure of repairing, cleaning

each up to Rs. 3000/‐ at a time

subject to an annual limit of Rs.

25000/‐.

5. Petty Construction, Repair and

Maintenance works.

To sanction petty construction repair

and maintenance work uptoRs.10000/‐

on a proper estimate in each case of

work

To sanction petty construction

repair and maintenance work

uptoRs.100000/‐ on a proper

estimate without referring to the

Public Works Dept.

6. Repair of department vehicles in un To accord sanction for repair of

dept. vehicles in unapproved work

OMC‐KSJ Page163

approved workshops.

To accord sanction for repair of dept.

vehicles in unapproved work shops

where approved workshops are not

available at a reasonable distance up to

Rs 500/‐.

shops where approved workshops

are not available at a reasonable

distance up to Rs 5000/‐

7. Rewards

a) To sanction rewards up to a limit of

Rs.400/‐ in any one case subject to the

condition that the maximum reward to

any one individual will not exceed

Rs.150/‐

b) Members of Public.

Up to Rs.2500/‐per head.

a)To sanction rewards up to a

limit of Rs.2000/‐ in any one case

subject to the condition that the

maximum reward to any one

individual will not exceed Rs.500/‐

b) Members of Public.

Up to Rs.2500/‐ per head.

8.Purchase of furniture(Wooden and

steel).


furniture(wooden and steel) with an

annual limit up to Rs. 5000/‐.


furniture(wooden and steel) with

an annual limit up to Rs20000/‐.

9. Repairs to Motor Vehicles.

a) To sanction repairs to motor vehicles

including cost of spare parts for all kinds

of vehicles and equipments up to

Rs.3000/‐

To sanction repairs to motor

vehicles including cost of spare

parts for all kinds of vehicles and

equipments up to Rs.25000/‐.

10. Renting of Buildings

To sanction renting of private building

up to Rs1000/‐

To sanction renting of private

building up to Rs10000/‐

11. Burial charges

To sanction Rs. 500/‐ in each case of

To sanction Rs.10000/‐ in each

case of burial or cremation of

OMC‐KSJ Page164

burial or cremation of those who belong

to Fire force and die while on duty.

those who belong to Fire force

and die while on duty.

12.Binding Charges


binding charges up to Rs.500/‐


binding charges up to Rs.2500/‐

13. Purchase of New Cycles The existing power will continue

14.Repair to Cycles

To sanction repairs cycles up to Rs.100/‐

at a time

To sanction repairs cycles up to

Rs.500/‐at a time.

15. Condemnation of Stores

To sanction condemnation of stores up

to a book value of Rs.1000/‐

To sanction condemnation of

stores up to a book value of

Rs.50000/‐

16.Lease

To sanction sale or lease of usufructs

standing in the Govt. land up to Rs.1000

To sanction sale of lease of

usufructs standing in the Govt.

land up to Rs.5000/‐.

17.Investigation of Arrear Claims

Power Exercised The existing power will continue.

18.Purchase of Books and Maps

To sanction purchase of books and maps

up to Rs.300/‐per year

Purchase of Books and Maps

To sanction purchase of books

and maps up to Rs.3000/‐per year

19.Torch light cells

To sanction purchase of torch light cells

up to Rs.100/‐ at a time subject to the

annual limit of Rs.1000/‐

To sanction purchase of torch

light cells up to Rs.500/‐ at a time

subject to the annual limit of

Rs.5000/‐

20.Leave Existing power will continue

OMC‐KSJ Page165

To sanction of all kinds of leave except

leave to join spouse, leave without

allowance for taking up other

employment, LWA exceeding 120 days

,study leave and special disability leave

to all the members of staff working

under him

21.Write off

To sanction Write off up to a book value

of Rs.200/‐ in each case up to an annual

limit of Rs.2000/‐

To sanction Write off up to a book

value of Rs.10000 /‐in each case

up to an annual limit of

Rs.25000/‐

12.2.4PROPOSED DELEGATION OF POWERS TO ASSISTANT DIVISIONAL

OFFICER:


1.Non Recurring contingent Expenditure To sanction Non Recurring contingent Expenditure up to Rs.1000/‐

To sanction Non Recurring contingent Expenditure up to Rs.2500/‐

2.Local Purchase of Stationery

To sanction local purchase of stationery

up to Rs.250/‐ in each case subject to

an annual limit of Rs.2500/‐

To sanction local purchase of

stationery up to Rs.2500/‐ in

each case subject to an annual

limit of Rs.10000/‐

3. Electrical installation and Rewiring

of Fire station Building.

Nil

To incur expenditure for electric

installation and re‐wiring of Fire

Station Building up to 10000/‐.

4. Repair of department vehicles in un

approved workshops.

Nil

To accord sanction for repair of

dept. vehicles up to Rs.2000/‐in

unapproved work shops where

approved workshops are not

available at a reasonable

distance (15km)

5. Petty Construction, Repair and To sanction petty construction

OMC‐KSJ Page166

Maintenance works.

Nil

repair and maintenance work

uptoRs.25000/‐ on a proper

estimate in each case of work

without referring the Public

Works Dept.

6.Repairing ,Cleaning, Paining and

Varnishing of Furniture

To sanction, .Repairing ,Cleaning,

Paining and Varnishing of furniture up

to Rs.500/‐at a time

To sanction, Repairing, Cleaning,

Paining and Varnishing of

furniture up to Rs.2000/‐at a

time.

7.Repairs to Motor Vehicles

To sanction repairs to Motor Vehicles

including cost of spare parts for all

kinds of vehicles up to Rs.1000/‐.

a) To sanction repairs to all

types of Vehicles including

firefighting vehicles

/equipment’s and their cost

of spare parts to Rs.15000/‐

with reference to technical

authority

b) To sanction replacement of

minor parts / labour charges

of all vehicles including

firefighting vehicles

/equipment’s, costing up to

Rs.5000/‐ without reference

to any technical authority.

8.Binding Charges

To sanction binding charges up to

Rs.250/‐

To sanction binding charges up to

Rs.500/‐at a time.

9.Leave

To sanction of all kinds of leave except

study leave and special disability

leave leave to join spouse, leave

without allowance for taking up other

employment, LWA exceeding 120

Existing power will continue

OMC‐KSJ Page167

days,to all officers of and below the

rank of station officers working under

him.

10. Rewards

Nil

To sanction rewards up to a limit

of Rs.1000/‐ in any one case

subject to the condition that the

maximum reward to any one

individual will not exceed

Rs.200/‐

11.Purchase of furniture

(Wooden and steel)

Nil


furniture(wooden and steel) with

an annual limit up to Rs 10,000/‐

12. Renting of Buildings

Nil

To sanction renting of private

building up to Rs. 5000/‐

13. Burial charges

Nil.

To sanction Rs 5000/‐ in each

case of burial or cremation of

those who belong to Fire force

and die while on duty

14.Purchase of Books and Maps

Nil

Purchase of Books and Maps

To sanction purchase of books

and maps up to Rs.1000/‐per

year

12.3 ENHANCEMENT OF THE AMOUNT OF FIRE STATION PERMANENT

ADVANCE:

Permanent Advance to a Fire and Rescue Station is meant for meeting

the unforeseen repair and replacement of spares of firefighting vehicles /

equipments. The Standing Order 5/98 Dated 05/03/1998 enhanced the

permanent advance of Fire and Rescue Stations from Rs.200/‐ to Rs.500/‐ with

the monetary limit of Rs.200/‐ at a time to meet unforeseen expenditure. This

amount was not sufficient even during late 1990s. It is a pittance by any

standard. There is manifold increase in the prices of articles / spare parts and

services since 1990s. One cannot do anything for Rs.200/‐. Therefore the

OMC‐KSJ Page168

amount of ‘Permanent Advance’ to Fire & Rescue stations should be enhanced

to Rs.25000/‐ (Rupees Twenty Five Thousand) with expenditure limit of

Rs.5000/‐ at a time for the following purposes and any other unforeseen

emergency expenditure.

i) Repair and Replacement of minor parts of Vehicles.

ii) Repair and Replacement of minor parts of Firefighting Vehicles /

Appliances.

iii) Repair and Replacement of minor parts of Firefighting Equipments.

iv) Repair and Replacement of minor parts of Rescue Equipments.

v) Repair of Furniture.

vi) Purchase of Stationery Articles.

vii) Purchase of Electrical Fitments & minor Installation.

viii) Un expected Expenditure on Firefighting& Rescue Operations.

ix) Refreshment including drinking water expenditure for firefighting

personnel on duty on any firefighting & rescue operations lasting

more than four hours.

x) Any unforeseen emergency expenditure not covered above.

OMC‐KSJ Page169

CHAPTER‐13

‘REPAIR & MAINTENANCE OF MOTOR VEHICLES / FIREFIGHTING VEHILES /

FIREFIGHTING & RESCUE EQUIPMENTS’

OMC‐KSJ Page170

13.REPAIR& MAINTENANCE OF MOTOR VEHICLES / FIREFIGHTING

VEHICLES / FIREFIGHTING& RESCUE EQUIPMENTS:

13.1Introduction:

13.1.1 There is an old proverb which says that ‘A STICH IN TIME SAVES NINE’.

The import of this proverb is most relevant in the case of timely repairs and

maintenance of the KF&RS department motor vehicles / firefighting vehicles

/firefighting& rescue equipments in more than one way. The timely repairs and

maintenance not only ensure availability of nearly hundred per cent technical

resources in use / road worthy conditions all the time but also prevents

degradation and deterioration of technical assets of department thereby

ensuring optimal utility of technical resources and finally saves Govt. finances

from being frittered away on un necessary and wasteful recurring repairs and

maintenances. But these timely repairs cannot be achieved by continuing with

the outdated procedures and highly restrictive delegation of financial powers

at all levels of departmental hierarchy competent to sanctions repairs and

maintenance. The decentralisation and liberal delegation of financial powers to

all levels of departmental hierarchy competent to sanctions repairs and

maintenance as suggested in this report is absolutely necessary without

wasting any more time.

13.1.2 The Govt. of Kerala has created 7 posts of STO (MT) in KF&RS

department for ensuring timely repairs and maintenance of the KF&RS

department motor vehicles / firefighting vehicles /firefighting& rescue

equipments and other related jobs vide G.O.(MS)10/201/Home Dated

13/11/2011 and G.O.(MS) 69/2011/Home Dated 28/02/2012. Their duties has

been issued vide G.O. (MS) No. 04/2013/Home dated 08/01/2013. The

sanctioned seven STOs (MT) are for 5 Divisional Offices of KF&RS Department

located at Thiruvananthapuram, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Palakkad & Kozhikode

and one each for KF&RS Headquarters and KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur.

13.1.3 The Essentiality Certificates for all repairs and Economy Certificates for

Light Vehicles requiring repair expenditure up to Rs.25000/‐ and repair

expenditure up to Rs. 40,000/‐ for heavy vehicles are necessary for conducting

OMC‐KSJ Page171

repairs of Govt. vehicles. The PWD Mechanical wing is the authority for issuing

these certificates. The power of issuing essentiality certificate for the repairs up

to Rs. 50,000/‐ including spare parts has now been entrusted to STOs (MT) of

Kerala Fire & Rescue Services vide G.O (MS) No. 04/2013/Home dated

08/01/2013 and communicated to all officers / units of KF&RS through KF&RS

Hqrs Standing Order No. 02/2013 Dated 11/03/2013. The delay in conducting

repairs has now been considerably reduced after the transfer of power for

issuing essentiality certificate for the repairs up to Rs. 50,000/‐ including spare

parts to STOs (MT) of Kerala Fire & Rescue Services. There used to be delay of

two to three months on this account alone when the essentiality certificates

were required to be obtained from PWD Mechanical wing. The CE PWD,

Mechanical wing even now issues the essentiality certificate for the repairs

above Rs. 50,000/‐.

13.1.4 The following enhancement in the delegation of power and streamlining

of procedures to avoid delays and ensuring timely repairs of KF&RS department

motor vehicles / firefighting vehicles /firefighting& rescue equipments is

therefore suggested / recommended.

i. The Commandant General KF&RS department should have the power to

accord sanction for repair of dept. vehicles in unapproved work shops

where approved workshops are not available at a reasonable distance

(say up to 15 Kms) up to Rs. 50,000/‐ (Fifty Thousand rupees) in each

case. The existing power of Commandant General is Rs. 5000/‐ only.

ii. The Commandant General KF&RS department should have the power to

accord sanction for repair of dept. vehicles including purchase of spare

parts etc. for general purpose departmental vehicles except firefighting

vehicles up to Rs. 100,000/‐ (one lakh rupees) in each case with annual

limit of three lakhs per general purpose departmental vehicle subject to

availabliaty of budjet provision. The existing power of Commandant

General is Rs. 20,000/‐ only.

iii. The Commandant General KF&RS department should have the power to

accord sanction expenditure of repairs including purchase of spare parts

etc. for firefighting /rescue vehicles up to Rs 200,000/‐ (two lakhs

rupees) in each case with annual limit of five lakhs per fire fighting /

OMC‐KSJ Page172

rescue vehicle subject to availabliaty of budjet provision. The existing

power of Commandant General is Rs. 50,000/‐ only.

iv. The Commandant General KF&RS department should have the power to

accord sanction expenditure of repairs including purchase of spare parts

etc. for the firefighting and other equipment’s up to Rs. 100,000/‐ (one

lakh rupees) in each case with annual limit of three lakhs per fire fighting

/ rescue and other equipments subject to availabliaty of budjet

provision. There is no clarity in the existing govt. orders about the

Commandant General’s power in this regard.

v. The Divisional Officers of KF&RS department should have the power to

accord sanction for repair of all types of vehicles including firefighting

vehicles and all types of equipment’s including firefighting equipment’s

and purchase of their spare parts etc. up to Rs25,000/‐ in each case. The

existing power of Divisional Officers is Rs. 3,000/‐ only.

vi. The Assistant Divisional Officers of KF&RS department should have the

power to accord sanction for repair of all types of vehicles including

firefighting vehicles and all types of equipment’s including firefighting

equipment’s and purchase of their spare parts etc. up to Rs15,000/‐ in

each case. The existing power of Assistant Divisional Officers is Rs.

1,000/‐ only.

vii. The Station Officers of Kerala Fire & Rescue Stations should have the

power to incur the expenditure up to Rs. 5,000/‐ only for conducting

urgent repairs and replacements of minor parts of all types of vehicles

including firefighting vehicles and equipment’s without reference to any

technical authority in each case. These urgent repairs can be conducted

in any workshop. The controlling Assistant Divisional Officers will

sanction the bills up to Rs.5000/‐ submitted by the Station Officers of

Fire & Rescue Stations without reference to any technical authority in

each case.

viii. The STOs (Motor Transport) KF&RS department should have the power

to issue essentiality certificates for repair of all types of vehicles including

firefighting vehicles and all types of equipment’s including firefighting

equipment’s and purchase of their spare parts etc. up to Rs100,000/‐ in

OMC‐KSJ Page173

each case. The existing limit for issuing essentiality certificates by the

STOs (MT) KF&RS department is Rs. 50,000/‐ only.

ix. At present the essentiality certificates are required only for the repairs

for more than Rs. 1000/‐. The essentiality certificate should be made

mandatory for the repairs above Rs.5,000/‐ only. The limit of Rs.5,000/‐

is proposed for the emergency repairs by STOs of Fire &Rescue Stations

of Kerala.

x. The Economy certificate is still being issued by the PWD Mechanical

wing. This power can also be transferred to STOs (MT) of KF&RS

department at par with their power of issuing essentiality certificates.

The present power of issuing essentiality certificate by the STOs (MT) of

KF&RS department is for the repairs up to Rs.50,000/‐. It has now been

proposed to be enhanced to RS. 100,000/‐ in this report.

13.2 Steps to Avoid Delays in Repair & Maintenance Works:

13.2.1 At present the proposal for repairs for motor vehicles / firefighting

vehicles /firefighting& rescue equipments is initiated by the concerned STOs of

Fire & Rescue Stations of Fire & Rescue Stations and submitted through proper

channels even if the sanctioning authority is Govt. or Commandant General.

This causes delays in carrying out the necessary repairs. The delay on this

account can be easily reduced considerably if the STOs of Fire & Rescue

Stations after obtaining essentiality or economy certificates from competent

authority submit the repair proposals direct to the competent sanctioning

authority and copy of proposals only be sent to intermediary supervisory

officers. In another words; the repair proposals requiring the sanction of

Commandant General and Government should be directly forwarded to KF&RS

Headquarters by STOs of Fire & Rescue Stations with copy of repair proposals

marked to ADO / DO offices. This will save the delay of minimum 30 days. The

repair proposals requiring sanction of DO or ADO will be sent to them directly

by STOs.

13.2.2 The STOs of Fire & Rescue Stations shall get the repair estimates from

the concerned approved / un‐approved workshops and submit the estimates

for essentiality or economy certificate within 7 days of any vehicle/equipment

becoming off road / unfit for use.

OMC‐KSJ Page174

13.2.3 To avoid delay in getting essentiality and economy certificates from

PWD Mechanical wing; the Govt. should fix the time limit of 10 days from the

date of receipt of request from the STOs of Fire Stations.

13.2.4 The STOs (MT) of KF&RS should issue the essentiality and economy

certificates within their competence within 5 days of receipt of request from

STOs of Fire & Rescue Stations.

13.2.5 The ADOs and DOs of KF&RS department will issue sanction orders

within their competence within 03 days of receipt of repair proposals from

STOs of Fire & Rescue Stations.

13.2.6 The Commandant General KF&RS should issue sanction orders within his

/ her competence within 10 days of receipt of repair proposals in the KF&RS

Headquarters directly from STOs of Fire & Rescue Stations.

13.2.7 The Home Department, Govt. of Kerala should issue sanction orders

within 15 days of receipt of repair proposals from the KF&RS Headquarters.

13.3 Other Issues Related to Repair & Maintenance :

13.3.1 A general view emerging out from the interaction with officers of KF&RS

department is that the repairs of vehicles and equipments should be generally

got done from the manufactures or suppliers or company workshops instead of

from the govt. approved workshops. The officers are of unanimous view that

repairs of specialised vehicle and equipments in any case should be done only

through the suppliers of the vehicles and equipments and not through any

other source.

13.3.2 At present the repair of all types of vehicles of KF&RS is conducted at

Govt. approved workshops only with some exceptions for conducting repairs in

un‐approved workshops. It is proposed that the repairs of KF&RS department

vehicles can be conducted either in Govt. approved workshops or KSRTC

workshops whichever is nearby and/or better equipped to carry out the proper

repairs.

13.3.3 The need for a central workshop in KF&RS Department needs to be

examined in detail by Commandant General in view of the strength of vehicles

/ firefighting appliances / equipments and problems relating to the

management of such central workshops. The experiences of other departments

OMC‐KSJ Page175

who are having such captive workshops need to be studied in depth for any

conclusion on the matter. The finances, creation of large numbers of technical

posts, investment in the machinery / repair infra‐structures and management

skills and over all work culture required for setting up of a central workshop are

the key determinants in taking a final call on this crucial issue. My gut feeling is

that we should refrain from such venture.

13.3.4 Whether the KF&RS department deserves an exclusive central workshop

or not is subject to the findings of the study by the Commandant General as

suggested above. But even without the establishment of central workshop

some more posts of technical experts will have to be created. First, there

should be one post each of Divisional Officer (Technical) and Assistant

Divisional Officer (Technical) in the KF&RS Headquarters to advise the

Commandant General on all technical matters and supervise the repair &

maintenance of motor vehicles / firefighting vehicles / firefighting& rescue

equipments at state level. They will be instrumental in technological

advancement of the KF&RS department. The post of Divisional Officer

(Technical) will be filled by the KF&RS cadre officer. But the post of Assistant

Divisional Officer (Technical) can be filled either by direct recruitment of a

mechanical Engineer as Assistant Divisional Officer (Technical) in KF&RS

Headquarters or on deputation from any Engineering department of State

Government. The details of recruitment /deputation can be worked out by the

Commandant General / Government. Secondly, the present number of STOs

(MT) needs to be increased.

13.3.5 There should one STO (MT) in all the revenue districts except Kassargod,

Wayanadu, Malappuram, Iddukki, and Alappuzha districts. That means there

will be one STO (MT) in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta,

Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Kozhikode and Kannur districts.

There is already one STO (MT) sanctioned in the Divisional Offices in

Thiruvananthapuram, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Palakkad and Kozhikode districts.

There is need for creation of additional four (04) posts of STOs (MT) in Kollam,

Pathanamthitta, Thrissur and Kannur districts. After the creation of these

additional four posts of STOs (MT), the STO (MT) Kottayam will also be in

charge of Alappuzha district, STO (MT) Pathanamthitta will also be in charge of

Idukki district, STO (MT) Palakkad will also be in charge of Malapuram district

OMC‐KSJ Page176

and STO (MT) Kozhikkode will also be in charge of Wayanadu district and STO

(MT) Kannur will also be in charge of Kasargod district.

13.3.6The commission therefore recommends creation of one post each of

Divisional Officer (Technical) and Assistant Divisional Officer (Technical) in the

KF&RS Headquarters and four (04) posts of STOs (MT) in Kollam,

Pathanamthitta, Thrissur and Kannur districts.

OMC‐KSJ Page177

CHAPTER‐14

‘INCENTIVES AND MOTIVATIONAL FACTORS’

OMC‐KSJ Page178

14. INCENTIVES AND MOTIVATIONAL FACTORS:

14.1.1Introduction:

14.1.2 The Following allowances are at present available to the KF&RS officers

and personnel vide Govt. order (P) No.85/11/Fin. Dated 26.02.2011 and

G.O.(P) No. 143/2011/ Fin. Dtd.30.03.2011issued in pursuance of the

recommendations of the ninth pay revision commission on revision of pay and

allowances of state Govt. employees & staff of educational institution etc.

Uniform Allowance (FM to Director)

Risk Allowance (LF, DM, FDCPO, FM)

Smartness Allowance (LF, DM, FDCPO, FM)

Weekly Day Off Allowance (FM to STO)

Fire Force Special Allowance (FM to DO)

Special Allowance (FDCPO, FDCPO to CG, STO & LF of KF&RS Academy)

Compensatory Allowance (FDCPO & DM)

Ration Money (FM to STO)

Water & Electricity Allowance (LF, DM, FDCPO, FM)

Feeding Charges (FM to ADO)

The above mentioned allowances to the KF&RS officers / personnel

sanctioned vide Govt. order (P) No.85/11/Fin. Dated 26.02.2011 and G.O. (P)

No. 143/2011/ Fin. Dtd.30.03.2011are very meager compared to the nature of

the job profile of the KF&RS officers / personnel. The KF&RS department is the

emergency service organisation and involved in firefighting and rescue

operations with imminent threat to their life and person. Every call of their

duty is full of risks and uncertainties. There is need to substantially enhance the

quantum of these allowances.

OMC‐KSJ Page179

14.1.3 UNIFORM ALLOWANCE:

A comparison of the uniform allowance sanctioned vide Govt. order (P)

No.85/11/Fin. Dated 26.02.2011 and G.O.(P) No. 143/2011/ Fin.

Dtd.30.03.2011 to the Police and KF&RS officers / personnel is given below.

Name of allowance

Existing

Fire & Rescue Police

Officers of & above Asst. station Officer

FM, FDCPO, LF, DM

S.P (Non IPS), Dy. SP

Officers from

A.S.I, up to Circle Inspector

Head Constable and Police Constable.

Uniform Allowance

once in a year 2000 2400 3000 2800 2750

Kerala Fire and Rescue Services personnel cater to various types of

firefighting duties in rural/urban areas, commercial & industrial fires, rescuing

persons alive or dead from water bodies, sewage drains, traffic accidents etc

but the Kerala Fire & Rescue Services personnel are provided with one type of

uniform; which is used for all types of duties including for attending fire, rescue

and incident calls. While attending fires in the Rexene houses, rubber go

downs, paint shops, oil fire etc. their uniform gets damaged / soiled. Their

uniforms also gets spoiled /damaged during rescue works. Similarly; while

engaging in the rescue work from sewage, drainage pits, septic tank etc.

uniform gets spoiled. While removing traffic obstruction by cutting down trees

which contain latex dyes etc. uniform gets damaged. The KF&RS personnel do

not have separate operational uniforms for attending fire, rescue and incident

calls.

It is therefore suggested /recommended that the KF&RS department

should have two types of uniforms; one for normal office duties and other for

operational duties. The Commandant General should send proposals in this

OMC‐KSJ Page180

regard to Govt. immediately. It is really pathetic that the KF&RS don’t have

operational dress for attending fire, rescue and incident calls.

In view of the peculiar nature of duty in which the uniforms are more

likely to get damaged /spoiled during operations unlike any other services

including Police; there is urgent need for enhancing the annual uniform

allowance of the Kerala Fire and Rescue Services officers and personnel as

following.

Proposed Uniform Allowance for KF&RS Department

Officers of and above ADO STO, ASTO, FM, FDCPO, LF, DM

Rs. 3500/‐ per year Rs.5000/‐per year

14.1.4RISK ALLOWANCE:

A comparison of the risk allowance sanctioned vide Govt. order (P)


Dtd.30.03.2011to the Police and KF&RS officers /personnel is given below.

Existing

Name of

allowance

Kerala Fire & Rescue

Services Kerala Police

Risk

Allowance

Officers

FM,

FDCPO,

LF, DM

C.I S.I ASI/HC/PC

Nil 75 80 60 50

It needs to be understood by all that among all the departments of Govt.,

the duty and responsibility of Kerala Fire & Rescue Services is most risk prone

and its officers and personnel are exposed to all kinds of hazards one can think

of. They have to fight fire; which is the most common hazard all the times. The

Fire & Rescue Services officers and men have to deal with hazardous material

like chemical spills, gas tanker explosions, gas leakages, smoke filled

enclosures, plastics / other polymers fires that release dioxin that are

carcinogenic and fire at pharmaceutical storage places at regular interval.

OMC‐KSJ Page181

These are all health hazard exposures. For rescue operations they have to very

often work in polluted as well as unhygienic places / environment. The risk to

life is very high in the rescue works in septic tanks, manholes, sewage plants

etc. The firefighting and rescue operations are therefore highly risk prone

activities and pose severe health hazard to fire fighters but they are

unfortunately paid pittance as risk allowance. At present the Risk allowance is

given to FM, LF, DM, and FDCPO only. This should be given to the following

executive staff at the rates mentioned below.

Proposed Risk Allowance for KF&RS department

ADOs and DOs STO, ASTO, FM, FDCPO, LF, DM

Rs. 1500/‐ per month Rs. 3000/‐ per month

14.1.5SMARTNESS ALLOWANCE:

A comparison of the smartness allowance sanctioned vide Govt. order

(P) No.85/11/Fin. Dated 26.02.2011 and G.O.(P) No. 143/2011/ Fin.

Dtd.30.03.2011to the Police and KF&RS officers and personnel is given below.

Existing

Name of allowance


Officers of and above

ASTO

FM, FDCPO, LF, DM

SI, ASI HC,PC

Smartness Allowance

Nil 60 50 50

This allowance is a symbolic gesture to encourage the spirit of smartness,

dignity, uniformity, happiness, willingness and self‐respect among the

uniformed personnel. But the amount given is too small to have any

motivational value. It is also seen that in KF&RS department; it is not given to

the STOs and ASTOs like police department where the SI and ASI are also

eligible for this allowance. It needs to be enhanced and given to the officer

category also. The following is proposed in this regard.

Proposed Smartness allowance amount

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STOs and ASTOs FM, FDCPO, LF, DM

Rs. 500/‐ per month Rs. 500/‐ per month

14.1.6 WEEKLY DAY OFF ALLOWANCE:

At present the Day off allowances is given to STOs, ASTOs, LF, DM FM,

FDCPO vide Govt. order (P) No.85/11/Fin. Dated 26.02.2011 and G.O.(P) No.

143/2011/ Fin. Dtd.30.03.2011. But see the difference in this regard between

Police and KF&RS personnel.

Existing

Name of allowance


Weekly Day Off Allowance

Officers FM, FDCPO,

LF,DM CI,SI,ASI, HC,PC

STO‐ 90ASTO‐ 80

80 250 HC‐230PC‐200

It is difficult to imagine the difference in day off allowance between the

Police and KF&RS personnel. It defies any logic. There should not be any

difference in the day off allowance of Police and KF&RS personnel. This

anomaly should be removed immediately and justice done to KF&RS personnel.

The amount fixed by Govt. is also arbitrary. It should not be a fixed amount as it

has no scientific basis. The Day off allowance must be equal to one day wages

of respective categories. Moreover the Circle Inspector is eligible for the Day

off Allowance. Therefore the ADO in KF&RS department whose pay scale is less

than the CI should be made eligible for the Day off Allowance. The following is

therefore proposed in this regard.

Proposed Weekly Day off Allowance amount

ADO, STO and ASTO FM, FDCPO, LF, DM

Day off allowance must be equal to one day salary.

Day off allowance must be equal to one day salary.

14.1.7 FIRE FORCE SPECIAL ALLOWANCE:

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A comparison of the fire force special allowance and police special

allowance sanctioned vide Govt. order (P) No.85/11/Fin. Dated 26.02.2011 and

G.O.(P) No. 143/2011/ Fin. Dtd.30.03.2011to the Police and KF&RS officers and

personnel is given below.

Name of allowance

Existing


Fire force allowance / Police special allowance

Officers LF, DM,

FM, FDCPODySP, CI SI,ASI HC,PC

DO‐130 ADO‐120 STO‐110 ASTO‐100

90 225 200 150

This allowance should be given according to the nature of duty, risk and

working hours unique to the organization. Here again it is difficult to imagine

the difference in the special allowance between the Police and KF&RS

personnel. It defies any logic. There should not be any difference in the Fire

force special allowance and police special allowance. The following is therefore

proposed in this regard.

Proposed Fire Force Allowance amount

DO, ADO, STO, ASTO LF, DM, FDCPO, FM,

Rs.300/‐ per month Rs.250/‐ per month

14.1.8SPECIAL ALLOWANCE:

At present this allowance is given to Fireman Driver Cum Pump Operators

(FDCPOs), FDCPO to CG, STO & LF of KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur at

following rates vide Govt. order (P) No.85/11/Fin. Dated 26.02.2011 and G.O.

(P) No. 143/2011/ Fin. Dtd.30.03.2011.

FDCPO: Rs.210/‐ per month

FDCPO to CG: Rs. 170/‐ per month

STO KF&RS Academy: Rs.90/‐ per month

LF KF&RS Academy: Rs.80/‐ per month

No change is suggested in the structure and rates of this allowance.

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14.1.9 COMPENSATORY ALLOWANCE:

At present the Compensatory allowance is given to Driver Mechanics and

FDCPOs only vide Govt. order (P) No.85/11/Fin. Dated 26.02.2011 and G.O. (P)

No. 143/2011/ Fin. Dtd.30.03.2011at the following rates.

Existing

Name of allowance

Fire & Rescue

Compensatory Allowance

Officers (Of and above ASTO)

LF, FM DM, FDCPO

Nil Nil Rs.80/‐per month

The amount of this allowance needs to be enhanced to at least Rs.250/‐ per

month because of crucial nature of duty performed by the FDCPOs in

firefighting and rescue operations.

14.1.10RATION MONEY:

A comparison of the ration money sanctioned vide Govt. order (P)


Dtd.30.03.2011to the Police and KF&RS officers and personnel is given below.

Existing

Name of

allowance Fire & Rescue Services Police

Ration Money

Officers

LF, DM,

FDCPO,

FM

SI, ASI, HC,

PC

STO and ASTO ‐

105 105 180

OMC‐KSJ Page185

The present amount of the ration money is very meager and the existing

cost escalation definitely seeks revision of ration money amount. It is

therefore recommended that the ration money amount should be enhanced

to Rs1500/‐per month for the STO, ASTO, LF, DM, FDCPO and FM category

personnel.

14.1.11 WATER& ELECTRICITY ALLOWANCE:

At present the water &electricity allowance are given to LF, DM, FDCPO,

FM category personnel only at the rate of Rs.40/‐per month vide Govt. order

(P) No.85/11/Fin. Dated 26.02.2011 and G.O. (P) No. 143/2011/ Fin.

Dtd.30.03.2011. it is at par with police personnel. The rates of water and

electricity charges are getting hiked at regular interval. It is therefore

recommended that the water &electricity allowance should be enhanced to

Rs. 300/‐ per month.

14.1.12 FEEDING CHARGES:

At present feeding charges are given vide Govt. order (P) No.85/11/Fin.

Dated 26.02.2011 and G.O.(P) No. 143/2011/ Fin. Dtd.30.03.2011. A

comparison of the same is done with Police.

Existing

Name of allowance


Feeding charges

Officers LF, DM FDCPO, FM

CI, SI, HC, PC

ADO‐80 STO/ASTO‐60

60 80

The commission recommends that the ADOs, STOs, ASTOs, LF, DMs, FDCPOs,

FM of KF&RS department should be given the feeding charges at the

following rates.

An amount of Rs.150/‐ if they perform more than 4 hours continuous

firefighting /rescue operations.

OMC‐KSJ Page186






standby duties.


standby duties.


standby duties.

14.2 NEED FOR MORE FINANCIAL INCENTIVES:

There are many gaps in the above mentioned regime of allowances

sanctioned by the Govt. to the KF&RS department personnel. They need to be

streamlined, rationalized and many new allowances according to the nature of

duty are to be introduced for them. Some of the new allowances which are

necessary to boost up the morale of KF&RS department personnel are

recommended below.

14.2.1 One Month’s Salary in lieu of Gazetted Holidays:

The Kerala Fire & Rescue Services personnel don’t have the privilege and

pleasure of availing the benefit of second Saturdays, Sundays and other Govt.

declared holidays on account of continuous working schedule of 24*7 being an

emergency service. They are deprived of benefit of holidays available to other

Govt. servants. The need for compensating the loss of holidays is therefore a

valid and reasonable and should be entertained. The commission therefore

recommends that the executive staff (STO / ASTO / LF / DM / FDCPO / FM) of

KF&RS department should be paid one month’s salary in a financial year in

lieu of the loss of Gazetted holidays.

14.2.2 Washing Allowance:

The Kerala Fire & Rescue Services personnel need to wash their uniforms

more frequently than normally required due to peculiar nature of the job. The

commission therefore recommends that the fire & rescue station executive

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staff of KF&RS department should be paid the washing allowance of Rs.100/‐

per month.

14.2.3 Ex‐gratia payment:

The commission recommends that ex‐gratia payment should be made

to the personnel of Kerala Fire & Rescue Services for injuries and death caused

during firefighting and rescue operations. The modalities and amount of such

Ex‐gratia payment can be decided by Govt. in consultation with the

Commandant General, KF&RS department.

14.2.4Tuition Fee Allowance:

At present no allowance is given to KF&RS department personnel to

meet the education expenses of their children. The tuition fees and other

educational costs are increasingly becoming unaffordable for all but the worst

affected are the employees in the lower rung of the organisational ladder. It is

therefore recommended that the Govt. sanction a lump sum amount as

tuition fee allowance to be given to KF&RS department personnel annually /

half yearly / quarterly / monthly as deem fit by the Govt. The tuition fees

allowance should be limited to two children only. The Commandant General,

KF&RS department should submit a viable proposal to the Govt. in this regard.

This will help in boosting up the morale of the KF&RS department personnel.

14.2.5Creation of Benevolent Fund:

The Govt. should create a benevolent fund for the KF&RS department

personnel so that financial aid /loan can be advanced for the medical expenses,

education of children and other welfare activities. One time grant of a

substantial sum (not less than one crore rupees) should be sanctioned to create

a corpus fund which could be used as seed money for this proposed benevolent

fund. The department can also be allowed to seek donation from the public

towards the proposed benevolent fund as is regularly done by the Delhi Fire &

rescue services during the Fire & rescue services Week (April 14‐20) every year

by way of selling / pinning of fire & rescue services flags. The nitty‐gritty and

other details of the scheme should be studied by Commandant General, KF&RS

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department in detail and submit a viable proposal to the Govt. in this regard.

This will help in boosting up the morale of the KF&RS department personnel.

14.2.6ANSWER SHEET VALUATION ALLOWANCE:

There are no allowances at present for evaluating the answer papers of

various examinations conducted by the Kerala Fire and Rescue Services

Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur. An answer sheet valuation allowance should be

introduced and sufficient fund should be made available at KF&RS Academy,

Viyyur, Thrissur for payment towards the valuation of answer sheets at the @

Rs.25/‐ per copy.

14.2.7TECHNICAL ALLOWANCE:

The Kerala Fire &Rescue Services personnel of all categories handle the

fire and rescue equipment’s. The efficiency of fire & rescue services essentially

depends upon the time response and efficient handling and operation of the

various types of equipment’s. The technical knowledge and skill is highly

needed in carrying out the day to day activities of the fire &rescue services.

Operation of various types of equipment’s skillfully and safely requires

technical expertise. The preventive maintenance of the equipment’s is done at

the fire station level which also requires technical knowhow. The handling,

operation and maintenance of the fire &rescue equipment’s are continuous job

of a firefighter which certainly requires a motivational incentive. This can be in

the way of a technical allowance, because the fire & rescue servicess are

essentially technical services to great extent. This allowance should be named

as ‘Technical Allowance’ and must be given to all the persons belonging to STO,

ASTO, LF, DM, FDCPO and FM category who do the job of handling,operation

and maintenance of the fire &rescue equipment’s on continuous basis. The

DOs and ADOs should also be given this allowance as they have to supervise

and guide to ensure the efficiency of the fire & rescue stations under their

command and control.

Proposed Technical Allowance Amount

DO, ADO, STO and ASTO LF, DM, FDCPO, FM

Rs.1000/‐per month Rs.1500/‐per month

OMC‐KSJ Page189

14.2.8TRAINING ALLOWANCE FOR ACADEMY STAFF:

At present a special allowance is given to academy staff vide Govt. order

(P) No.85/11/Fin. Dated 26.02.2011 and G.O. (P) No. 143/2011/ Fin.

Dtd.30.03.2011at the following rates. This allowance is given to STOs and LFs

only.

Existing

Name of allowance Fire & Rescue Services

Special Allowance

for Academy Staff

Officers LF, FM, DM FDCPO

STO only Rs.90/‐

per month

LF only Rs.80/‐

per month NIL

Giving this allowance to STOs and LFs only does not seem to be justified

and rational. It is therefore recommended an allowance named as ‘Training

Allowance’ should be given to all the executive staff posted against the

sanctioned strength of the KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur because all of

them are engaged in imparting training in the Academy. This is absolutely

essential for boosting the morale of training staff and attracting good officers

and staff for training work in the academy.

Proposed ‘Training allowance’ amount

Officers (Of and above ASTO) LF, DM, FDCPO, FM

Rs.1500/‐per month Rs.1000/‐per month

14.2.9Facility of Bus & Railway Warrants:

The facility of Bus warrants and Railway warrants should be introduced

in the KF&RS department on the lines that is available to the police officers and

personnel in the police department. The Commandant General, KF&RS

department should study this welfare measure in detail and submit a proposal

to Govt. after proper evaluation.

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14.2.10All the journeys performed in connection with the firefighting and

rescue operations should be taken out of the ambit of existing travelling allowance ceiling ordered by the Govt. 14.3 OTHER MOTIVATIONAL FACTORS: The above mentioned monetary allowances are necessary to keep the

organisation striving for its assigned job. But the monetary benefits are not the

only driving factors in many situations where the organisational set up is

regressive and failing to keep pace with the aspirations of its members and

other modernisation needs of the department. As far as the KF&RS department

is concerned there are serious organisational issues that are creating

motivational imponderables / roadblocks in its smooth functioning.

14.3.1 NEED FOR DISTRICT OFFICES IN KF&RS DEPARTMENT:

The first and foremost de‐motivational factor is the absence of district

office and a district level officer to head the KF&RS department at district level.

At present the Assistant Divisional Officer is functioning as the district officer by

default and not by a well‐conceived administrative and operational district

organisational set up with adequate sanctioned office staff and infrastructure.

The present Assistant Divisional Office staffs are cobbled up by attaching the

clerks and executive staff from the fire stations on working arrangements.

There is no sanctioned staff to the Assistant Divisional Office. He is the only one

sanctioned in his office. The Assistant Divisional Office has not been established

as district office either by Govt. order or declared by any standing order of the

Commandant General KF&RS department. It has assumed the role of district

office by some weird assumptions such as there is only one post of ADO in one

district and ADO is the drawing and disbursing officer for all the fire station

staff in the district. The district organisational set up with adequate sanctioned

staff is the sine qua non for effective administrative and operational efficiency.

Therefore it is strongly recommended that a district office with adequate staff

strength should be established in KF&RS department in each revenue district

headquarters of districts of Kerala. This is absolutely must for the smooth

functioning and operational efficiency of the department. The Commandant

General, KF&RS department should prepare a detailed proposal in this regard

and submit to Govt. for approval and action.

OMC‐KSJ Page191

Who (whether DO or ADO) should head the district in the KF&RS

department is another issue to be decided. This matter is not probed further

here because it pertains to the overall organisational modernisation plan

/scheme of the KF&RS department. Suffice to mention here that the absence of

district office is causing lot of heartburns in the department and proving to be a

serious drag factor for the progress of the organisation.

14.3.2NEED FOR PARITY OF PAY SCALE OF ASSISTANT DIVISIONALOFFICER WITH THAT OF CIRCLE INSPECTOR OF POLICE:

The 9TH pay Revision Commission recommended for equal scale of pay

for similar posts in Kerala Police and Kerala Fire and Rescue Services, but the

posts of Assistant Divisional Officer and Divisional Officer were not considered

for parity. Even though Assistant Divisional Officer of KF&RS department is

functioning as district level officer; the pay scale sanctioned to Assistant

Divisional Officer is similar to that of Sub Inspector of Police (Higher Grade)

only.

There seems to be some wrong assessment of the workload and

responsibilities of the Assistant Divisional Officers compared with other district

level officers. It needs to be understood that the Assistant Divisional Officer is

functioning as the district level executive officer of the Fire and Rescue Services

Department. He is otherwise also the first level supervisory officer of fire &

rescue stations. The standing order No. 01/1998 dated 06/02/1998 of

Commandant General, KF&RS department also designates the Assistant

Divisional Officer as the district level supervisory officer in the KF&RS

department. But the pay scale of the Assistant Divisional Officer is less than

that of the Circle Inspector of Police. Actually Assistant Divisional Officer is

drawing only the pay scale equivalent to that of Sub Inspector of Police Higher

Grade (18740‐33680). Before the 9th pay Commission the pay scales of

Assistant Divisional Officer and Circle Inspector of Police was one and the same

(i.e.; 10790‐18000). While the pay commission has recommended the pay

scale of 20740‐36140 to the Circle Inspector of Police, the pay scale sanctioned

to the Assistant Divisional Officer is only 18740‐33680. Therefore it is strongly

recommended that the Scale of Pay of Assistant Divisional Officer should be

raised and equated to the pay scale drawn by the Circle Inspector of Police (i.e.;

20740‐36140).

OMC‐KSJ Page192

The Assistant Divisional Officers of Fire & Rescue Services Department

are highly disappointed and disgruntled lot on this account. They have to

function as district level officer and attend various district level meetings but

are highly diffident because of their low pay scale. They seem to have lost the

jest for the job and become de‐motivated on this account. This serious anomaly

in the pay scale of Assistant Divisional Officers of Fire & Rescue Services

Department needs to be corrected at the earliest and orders issued for bringing

parity between the Circle Inspector of police and Assistant Divisional Officer of

Fire & Rescue Services Department in pay scales.

14.3.3NEED FOR PARITY OF PAY SCALE OF STATION OFFICER OF KF&RS

DEPARTMENT WITH THAT OF SUB INSPECTOR OF POLICE: In para 7.25.2 (V1) even though the 9th Pay Commission recommended that the

scale of pay of Station Officer of Fire &Rescue Service to be equivalent to that

of the Sub Inspector of police ( i.e.; 16980‐31360), the pay scale sanctioned to

Station Officer of Fire &Rescue Service by Govt. is only 16180‐29180. There is

no justification for such disparity in the pay scales of Station Officer of Fire

&Rescue Service department and Sub inspector of Police. Therefore it is

strongly recommended that the Scale of Pay of Station Officer of Fire &Rescue

Service Department should be raised and equated to the pay scale sanctioned

to the Sub Inspector of Police (i.e.; 16980‐31360).

14.3.4NEED FOR PARITY OF PAY SCALE OF ASSISTANT STATION OFFICER OF KF&RS DEPARTMENT WITH THAT OF ASSISTANT SUB INSPECTOR OF POLICE:

In para 7.25.2 (V11) even though the 9th Pay Commission recommended

the pay scale of 16180‐29180 to the Assistant Station Officer of Fire & Rescue

Service Department ; which is at par with Assistant Sub Inspector of Police, it is

not sanctioned to the Assistant Station Officer of Fire & Rescue Service

Department. The Assistant Station Officer of Fire & Rescue Service Department

is sanctioned the pay scale of 14620‐25280 only.

Therefore it is recommended that the Scale of Pay of Assistant Station

Officer of Fire &Rescue Service Department should be increased and equated

with the pay scale sanctioned to the Assistant Sub Inspector of Police (i.e.;

16180‐29180).

OMC‐KSJ Page193

14.3.5 The demand of ADOs, STOs and ASTOs of Fire & Rescue Services

Department for pay parity with that of ASI, SI, and CI of Police Department is a

genuine and rational demand. This is least the Govt. can do to improve the

morale of the ADOs, STOs and Assistant Station Officers of Fire & Rescue

Services Department; who are technically more qualified and engaged in

emergency duty round the clock involving far more risks to their life and person

than any other service /department of the state. It also needs to be mentioned

here that the KF&RS department officers and personnel have to pass the

mandatory qualifying examinations for becoming eligible for promotion to the

next higher posts unlike other department. The professional standards for

becoming eligible for promotions are far more exacting in KF&RS department

than any other department of the Govt. including the police department. In

such scenario depriving the KF&RS department officers / men of their dues;

which is also recognized by the 9th Pay Commission is not fair and justified.

14.3.6CREATION OF PROMOTIONAL AVENUES / OPPORTUNITY:

Another serious issue nagging the minds of middle level officers

especially at the level of STOs/ADOS/DOs is the lack of adequate promotional

avenues to the next immediate higher level/post. This has also caused the

growth of uneven span of control at the level of ADO/DO. The organisation has

grown at the grass root level from 15 fire stations in 1963 to 101 fire stations in

2013. But there are only 15 posts of ADOs (14 in districts and 1 in Academy), 5

posts of DOs and 2 posts of Directors.

It is clear that there has not been corresponding growth in the middle

and senior level supervisory posts in the department over the years. The

creation of more posts is directly linked to the organisational modernisation

plan involving creation of district offices in KF&RS department under the DOs

designated as district fire officers, redefining the role of ADOs as operational

and fire prevention officers in the districts under the direct control of DOs,

creation of the posts of regional fire officers, creation of various posts in the

KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur and creation of additional posts at the KF&RS

Headquarters etc.

OMC‐KSJ Page194

14.3.7ORGANISATIONAL RE‐STRUCTURING IS KEY TO THE MODERNISATION

OF DEPARTMENT:

It needs to be understood here very clearly that the modernisation of

KF&RS department is not going to be achieved only by purchasing few modern

equipment’s and opening fire stations. The modernisation of KF&RS

department can be ensured only by modernising the organisational structure of

the department; which involves creation of district office with adequate staff,

creation of adequate number of middle and senior level supervisory posts,

creation of additional supervisory levels like DOs at district level and regional

fire officers at zonal / regional level, creation of more posts of ADOs in the

districts, creation of various posts in the KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur and

creation of additional posts at the KF&RS Headquarters etc, apart from opening

of more fire stations and procurement of basic and modern equipment’s. It is a

complete package and not a piecemeal accretion of the technical assets. This

approach alone will be able to motivate KF&RS officers / personnel to the

higher level of efficiency and proficiency. The organisational re‐structuring on

the lines suggested above is therefore the key to the modernisation and

progress of the KF&RS department. Technology without corresponding human

resource strength will take us nowhere.

14.3.8REGULAR / TIMELY ISSUE OF UNIFORM ARTICLES:

The uniform allowance is meant for the purchase of the uniform cloth

and stitching charges as per G.O. (Ms) 95/92/Home dated 29/04/1992. The

other uniform items /articles as mentioned in the Commandant General,

KF&RS Department Standing Orders No. 16/1967 dated 21/04/1967 and

17/1977 dated 01/11/1977 are to be centrally purchased by the department

and disbursed among the officers and personnel. It is regretted that these

uniform items /articles have not been procured for some years now. The

officers and personnel are made to arrange these uniform articles on their

own. This is really pathetic state of affairs. The Govt. should immediately look

into this matter and task the Commandant General, KF&RS department to

initiate urgent action to procure the required uniform items / articles and

distribute among the officers and men according to the prescribed scale and

life mentioned in Standing Orders No. 16/1967 and 17/1977. The delay in

OMC‐KSJ Page195

procurement of uniform items /articles is happening due to absence of a well‐

established provisioning wing in the KF&RS headquarters. The establishment of

a provisioning wing has now been recommended in the chapter dealing with

re‐structuring of the KF&RS Headquarters of this report. The non‐issue of

uniform articles has adverse impact on the morale and confidence of

firefighting personnel.

14.3.9NEED FOR PROCURMENT OF PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENTS

(PPEs):

The Personal Protective Equipment’s (PPEs) are a must firefighting force.

Lack of PPEs is retarding factor in emergency/disaster management operations

and decreases the efficiency and performance of the department. The PPEs

builds the confidence and morale of the fire fighters and helps in efficient and

effective firefighting operations. The following is the list of recommended PPEs

for the fire & rescue servicess world over.

Helmet with head lamp and ear phone

Water bottle with sling

Face Mask & safety (Eye protection) Goggles

Gas mask

Rain Coats

Ear protection

Safety steel‐toe boots

Safety belt

Knee pads

Heat resistance and cut resistance gloves

Overalls fire resistant suit

Personal safety line (sash cord) 15” length

Gum boot / safety boot / firefighting boot for foot protection

Fire entry Suit

Fire proximity Suit

Chemical Suit

Fire men axe

Breathing apparatus (Light weight)

Diving Suit

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Buoyancy aids like life jackets and immersion suits

The helmets and gum boots are being issued by the department but its

issue is erratic and irregular. The last issue of helmet was done in 2009 and few

gum boots were last issued in 2012. The Commandant General, KF&RS

department should therefore conduct the audit of stock of these two items of

PPEs on priority and streamline the procurement and issue of these two PPE

items. The quality of helmets being procured now should also be reviewed as

they don’t have head lamp and ear phone facility. The helmet should be of light

weight and made of polycarbonate fibre.

The other PPE item in the inventory of KF&RS department is the

breathing apparatus but the number is not adequate. It is recommended that

there should be a minimum of five breathing apparatus per turn out in each

fire station.

Since the procurement of PPEs is essential to enhance the efficiency of

the fire & rescue servicess, the Commandant General, KF&RS department

should fix the scale of PPEs for each fire station and fire fighter and take action

to procure them on priority.

This will help in motivating the fire fighters of KF&RS for better output

and results.

14.3.10NEED FOR DUTY AND SPORTS MEET:

There is no professional platform available to the Kerala fire & rescue

services department personnel to exhibit and excel in professional matters. The

KF&RS department should therefore organise annual duty meet for the fire &

rescue services personnel on the lines of police duty meet. This will help to

enhance the professionalism and also generate competitive professionalism

among the fire &rescue personnel. The Commandant General, KF&RS

department should therefore take immediate initiative in this regard and

organise the first duty meet during the financial year 2014‐15 positively. The

Govt. of Kerala should sanction required fund for this purpose on the basis of

proposal of the Commandant General, KF&RS department.

After successful conduct of duty meet in 2014‐15 the initiative to

organise the sports meet in subsequent years should be taken. The holding of

OMC‐KSJ Page197

duty and sports meet will go long way in inculcating the camaraderie and

sportsman spirit among the fire & rescue services personnel.

CHAPTER‐15

‘HOUSING STATUS: AVAILABILITY OF LAND / FIRE STATION BUILDING /

FAMILY ACCOMMODATION IN KF&RS DEPARTMENT’

OMC‐KSJ Page198

15. HOUSING STATUS: AVAILABILITY OF LAND / FIRE STATION BUILDING / FAMILY ACCOMMODATION IN KF&RS

DEPARTMENT:

15.1 INTRODUCTION:

The following statement informs the availability of land / buildings for the fire stations and family accommodations for

KF&RS department personnel.

15.1.1DISTRICT WISE DETAILS OF FIRE STATIONS FUNCTIONING IN GOVT. / PRIVATE / PANCHAYAT / MUNICIPALITY

BUILDINGS:

Sl.

No. District Name of Fire station

Whether

functioning in

Government

building or

Panchayath /

Municipality

/Corporation /

other building

The area of

land under

possession if

the Fire

Station is

functioning in

Government

Building

Whether rent

paid by the

Department or

not; if fire

station is

functioning in

Panchayath /

Municipality /

Corporation /

others building

Availability of

family

quarters. If yes

number/ type

of family

quarters at

each locality.

Remarks

1 THIRUVANANTHAPURAM THIRUVANANTHAPURAM Government 85.14 cent N.A No

2 THIRUVANANTHAPURAM CHACKA Government 2.75 acre N.A 46 (A‐6, B‐40)

3 THIRUVANANTHAPURAM NEYYATTINKARA Municipality N.A Rent free No

OMC‐KSJ Page199

4 THIRUVANANTHAPURAM VIZHINJAM Harbour

Department N.A Rent free No

5 THIRUVANANTHAPURAM ATTINGAL Government 40 cent N.A No

6 THIRUVANANTHAPURAM VARKALA Government 2acre 31cent N.A No

7 THIRUVANANTHAPURAM PARASSALA Panchayat N.A Rent free No

8 THIRUVANANTHAPURAM NEDUMANGAD Municipality N.A Rent free No

9 THIRUVANANTHAPURAM KATTAKKADA Panchayat N.A Rent free No

40 Cents of land has been

acquired by KF&RS

department from

Kattakad Panchayat. Building not

yet constructed

10 THIRUVANANTHAPURAM POOVAR Panchayat N.A Rent free No

11 THIRUVANANTHAPURAM KAZHAKKUTTAM Technopark N.A Rent free No

60 cents of land is available near

OMC‐KSJ Page200

Kazhakkutam bypass in

the name of department

But no action so far to build fire station building.

12 KOLLAM KADAPPAKADA Government 2.68 acre N.A 21(A‐9,B‐12)

13 KOLLAM CHAMANKKADA Government 27.7 cent N.A No

14 KOLLAM KUNDARA Government 2.56 acre N.A No

15 KOLLAM PUNALUR Government 1.54 acre N.A No

16 KOLLAM KADAKKAL Panchayat N.A Rent free No

70 Cents of land is already available with the

department but no action so far to

construct

OMC‐KSJ Page201

the fire station building.

17 KOLLAM KARUNAGAPALLY Private N.A Rent by

Department No

18 KOLLAM PARAVOOR Private N.A Rent by

Department No

19 KOLLAM KOTTARAKKARA Panchayat N.A Rent free No

20 KOLLAM SASTHAMKOTTA Private N.A Rent by

Department No

21 PATHANAMTHITTA PATHANAMTHITTA Government 48 cent N.A No

22 PATHANAMTHITTA ADOOR Private N.A Rent by

Department No

1.80 acre of

land is

already

available

with the

department

but no

action so

far to

construct

the fire

station

building.

OMC‐KSJ Page202

23 PATHANAMTHITTA THIRUVALLA Government 48 cent N.A No

24 PATHANAMTHITTA RANNI Private N.A Rent by

Department No

25 PATHANAMTHITTA SEETHATHODE Panchayat N.A Rent free No

56 Cents of

land is

already

available

with the

department.

Construction

of fire

station

building in

progress.

26 KOTTAYAM KOTTAYAM Government 70 cent N.A 16(B‐16)

27 KOTTAYAM KANJIRAPPALLY Private N.A Rent by

Department No

28 KOTTAYAM CHANGANACHERRY Government 1.58 acre N.A No

29 KOTTAYAM PALA Government 1.52 acre N.A No

30 KOTTAYAM ERATTUPETTAH Private N.A Rent by

Department No

31 KOTTAYAM PAMBADI Panchayat N.A Rent by

Panchayath No

OMC‐KSJ Page203

32 KOTTAYAM KADUTHURUTHY Panchayat N.A Rent by

Panchayath No

33 ALAPPUZHA ALAPPUZHA Government 1.04 acre N.A No

34 ALAPPUZHA CHENGANNUR Municipality N.A Rent free No

35 ALAPPUZHA KAYAMKULAM Government 2.5 acre N.A 14 (A‐6,B‐8)

36 ALAPPUZHA MAVELIKKARA Government 44 cent N.A No

37 ALAPPUZHA CHERTHALA Government 1.5 acre N.A No

38 ERNAKULAM ERNAKULAM Government 2 acre N.A No

39 ERNAKULAM CLUB ROAD Government 60 cent N.A 32 (B‐32)

40 ERNAKULAM MATTANCHERY Government 1.90 acre N.A 34 (B‐34)

41 ERNAKULAM THRIKKAKARA Government 94 cent N.A No

42 ERNAKULAM ALUVA Government 50 cent N.A No

43 ERNAKULAM ELOOR Private N.A Rent by

Department No

44 ERNAKULAM ANGAMALY Government 45 cent N.A No

OMC‐KSJ Page204

45 ERNAKULAM PERUMBAVOOR Government 50 cent N.A No

46 ERNAKULAM KOTHAMANGALAM Government 2 acre N.A No

47 ERNAKULAM MUVATTUPUZHA Municipality N.A Rent free No

48 ERNAKULAM PIRAVOM Government 12 cent N.A No

49 ERNAKULAM THRIPPUNITHURA Government 50 cent N.A No

50 ERNAKULAM NORTH PARAVUR Government 38 cent N.A No

51 ERNAKULAM KOOTHATTUKULAM Panchayat N.A Rent free No

52 ERNAKULAM KALLOORKAD Panchayat N.A Rent free No

53 ERNAKULAM FORT KOCHI TRNG

SCHOOL Government 93 cent N.A 9 (B‐9)

54 THRISSUR THRISSUR Government 95 cent N.A 19 (A‐1,B‐18)

55 THRISSUR CHALAKUDY Private N.A Rent by

Department No

56 THRISSUR GURUVAYOOR Private N.A Rent by

Department No

57 THRISSUR MALA Government 25 cent N.A No

OMC‐KSJ Page205

58 THRISSUR IRINJALAKUDA Government 2.52 acre N.A No

59 THRISSUR KUNNAMKULAM Government 1.18 acre N.A 22 (A‐1,B‐21)

60 THRISSUR PUTHUKKADU Government 25 cent N.A No

61 THRISSUR VADAKKENCHERRY(TSR) Government 20 cent N.A No

62 THRISSUR KF&RS, ACADEMY

VIYYUR Government 8 acre N.A 11 (A‐5,B‐6)

63 IDUKKI KATTAPPANA Private N.A Rent by

Department No

64 IDUKKI MUNNAR Private N.A Rent by

Department No

65 IDUKKI THODUPUZHA Private N.A Rent by

Department No

66 IDUKKI IDUKKI Government 50 cent N.A No

67 MALAPPURAM MALAPPURAM Government 2.26 acre N.A 38 (A‐7,B‐31)

68 MALAPPURAM TIRUR Government 74 cent N.A No

69 MALAPPURAM PERINTHALMANNA Government 40 cent N.A 6 (A‐2, B‐4)

70 MALAPPURAM PONNANI Government 4 acre N.A 22(A‐1,B‐21)

OMC‐KSJ Page206

71 MALAPPURAM NILAMPUR Municipality N.A Rent free No

72 PALAKKADU PALAKKADU Government 1.02 acre N.A 22 (A‐4, B‐18)

3 ‘A’ type

quarters

taken for

Div. Office

73 PALAKKADU CHITTUR Government 2 acre N.A No

74 PALAKKADU ALATHUR Private N.A Not fixed No

75 PALAKKADU SHORNUR Government 1 acre N.A No

76 PALAKKADU KANJIKODE Government 25.5 cent N.A No

77 PALAKKADU VADAKKUMCHERY(PKD) Panchayat N.A Panchayath No

78 PALAKKADU MANNARKADU Panchayat N.A Panchayath No

79 WAYANAD KALPETTA Government 56.5 cent N.A No

80 WAYANAD SULTHANBATHERY Government 1 acre N.A No

81 WAYANAD MANANTHAVADY Panchayat N.A Rent free No

24.5 Cents

of land is

already

available

with the

OMC‐KSJ Page207

department

but no

action so

far to

construct

the fire

station

building.

82 KOZHIKODE MEENCHANTHA Government 1.47 acre N.A 56 (A‐8,B‐48)

83 KOZHIKODE BEECH Government 81 cent N.A 17 (A‐1,B‐16)

84 KOZHIKODE VELLIMADUKUNNU PWD N.A Rent free No

85 KOZHIKODE VADAKARA Government 2.05 acre N.A No

86 KOZHIKODE PERAMBRA Government 18.82 cent N.A No

87 KOZHIKODE NARIKKUNI Private N.A Rent by

Department No

88 KOZHIKODE MUKKOM Private N.A Rent by

Department No

89 KOZHIKODE NADAPURAM Panchayat N.A Rent free No

90 KANNUR KANNUR Government 1.27 acre N.A 22 (A‐1,B‐21)

91 KANNUR IRITTY Panchayat N.A Rent free No

OMC‐KSJ Page208

92 KANNUR THALASSERY Government 1.7 acre N.A 23 (A‐1,B‐22)

93 KANNUR KOOTHUPARAMBU Municipality N.A Rent free No

94 KANNUR MATTANUR Private N.A Rent by

Department No

1.03 acre of land

acquired by the

department from the Mattanur

municipality during

2012. The construction

of fire station

building yet to start.

95 KANNUR THALIPARAMBU Private N.A Rent by

Department No

96 KANNUR PAYYANUR Government 1.52acre N.A No

97 KANNUR PERAVOOR Private N.A Rent by

Department No

98 KANNUR PERINGOM Panchayat N.A Rent free No

99 KASARGODE KASARGODE Government 1.70 acre N.A 22 (A‐1,B‐21)

OMC‐KSJ Page209

100 KASARGODE UPPALA Panchayat N.A Rent free No

1.5 acre of land has been

acquired by the

department.

But construction

of fire station

building yet to start.

101 KASARGODE KUTTIKKOL Government 2 acre N.A No

102 KASARGODE THIKARRIPUR Government 2.50 acre N.A No

103 KASARGODE KANHANGAD Government 17 cent N.A No

17 cents of land has been

acquired by the

department in 2010. Action to construct fire station building is yet to start.

OMC‐KSJ Page210

15.1.2DISTRICT WISE ABSTRACT OF FIRE STATIONS FUNCTIONING IN GOVT.,

PANCHAYAT, MUNICIPALITY, OTHER DEPARTMENT AND PRIVATE

BUILDINGS:

Sl. No District Number of fire stations working

in Govt. b

uild

ing

Number of fire stations working

in Pan

chayat build

ing


in M

unicipality build

ing


in other Departm

ent build

ing


in Private build

ing

Total

1 Thiruvananthapuram 4 3 2

1

(Harbour

Deptt.)

1 11

2 Kollam 4 2 3 9

3 Pathanamthitta 2 1 2 5

4 Kottayam 3 2 2 7

5 Alappuzha 4 1 5

6 Ernakulam 11 2 1 1 15

7 Idukki 1 3 4

8 Thrissur 6 2 8

9 Palakkad 4 2 1 7

10 Malappuram 4 1 5

OMC‐KSJ Page211

11 Kozhikode 4 1 1(PWD) 2 8

12 Wayanad 2 1 3 6

13 Kannur 3 2 1 6

14 Kasargode 4 1 5

15 KF&RS Academy,

Viyyur *

16 Fort Kochi Training

School *

Total 56 17 6 2 20 101

* The details of buildings are given in the chapter dealing with modernisation of

KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur. There is one two storeyed training building and

9 family quarters in the Fort Kochi Training School.

15.1.3 The information in paras 15.1.1 and 15.1.2 above has been collected by

personally contacting the ADO offices and Fire Stations from the Commission’s

office as the data on the subject was not completely available in the KF&RS

headquarters and other relevant offices. The in accuracy if any in the data may be

overlooked.

15.1.4 It is disheartening to note that as much as 55% fire & rescue stations are

without land and buildings of their own. They are functioning in the private /

panchayat / municipality / rented buildings which do not have adequate facility

required for proper functioning of fire stations. In addition; a number of existing

buildings need re‐construction because of their dilapidated conditions. This also

acts against the efficiency and morale of the departmental personnel. It is

therefore necessary to construct the buildings at the locations of the existing fire

stations on priority wherever the land is available but buildings are not

constructed so far due to various reasons.

OMC‐KSJ Page212

15.1.5 The existing fire stations are of different dimensions and designs. There is

need to standardise the design of the fire station building. The following number

of bays according to the scale of fire station is recommended.

I. The one pumping unit size fire station should be 4 bay building.

II. The two pumping unit size fire station should be 6 bay building.

III. The three pumping unit size fire station should be 7 bay building.

IV. The four pumping unit size fire station should be 10 bay building.

V. The fire stations should have adequate facility for watch rooms,

office rooms for STO, ASTO, LFs, store rooms, dormitories,

recreation rooms, Driver Mechanic room with attached workshop

room, sufficient number of guest rooms to accommodate the

visiting officers / personnel, one lakh litres capacity underground

water tank and open space for drill and practical demonstration

purpose etc. The number of bays in a fire station will be according

to the pumping units’ size fire station as suggested above.

VI. There are no accommodation facilities available for the visiting

KF&RS officers and men especially in the big cities and district

headquarters. They are at great inconvenience for want of proper

accommodation facilities during their official tours. It is therefore

recommended that some single and double rooms with minimum

facility should be constructed at the existing offices or fire station

buildings in district headquarters for the visiting KF&RS officers

and men. For example the KF&RS headquarters building at

Thiruvananthapuram can be easily modified to construct some

rooms for visiting KF&RS officers and men. If there is no scope for

partitions or modifications in the existing buildings in district

headquarters then the guest room(s) facility can be constructed in

the terrace of the buildings. The provision of guest rooms /

dormitory for the visiting KF&RS officers and men should be

included in all the new fire station building constructions here in

after.

OMC‐KSJ Page213

VII. The Commandant General KF&RS department should therefore

constitute a board of officers to deliberate and decide the

standard design of fire stations buildings keeping in mind the size

of the fire station and location of the fire station and incorporate

the above mentioned facility for visiting officers and personnel.

This task can also be outsourced to any architect.

VIII. The Commandant General KF&RS department should also decide

about the requirement of land for each type of fire station as

there is no criterion adopted so far for acquiring the land for fire

stations of different sizes and the family quarters.

15.1.6 The fire stations at Kattakada (Thiruvananthapuram), Kazhakkuttan

(Thiruvananthapuram), Kadakkal (Kollam), Adoor (Pathanamthitta), Seethathode

(Pathanamthitta), Mananthavady (Wayanad), Mattanur (Kannur), Kanhangad

(Kassargod) and Uppala (Kassargod) are presently functioning in privte /

panchayat / municipality buildings but land have been acquired for these fire

stations. It is therefore recommended that the adequate funds for the construction of the fire stations and minimum 10 family quarters at these 9 places should be released by the Govt. during 2014‐15. The Commandant General, KF&RS

department should take up the matter with Govt. immediately for sanctioning the

required funds for construction of fire station buildings and at least 10 numbers of

family quarters each at above mentioned 9 places.

15.2 AVAILABILITY OF FAMILY QUARTERS IN KF&RS DEPARTMENT:

15.2.1 The family quarters are available at following locations in KF&RS

department.

Sl. No. LOCATION Type ‘A’ Type ‘B’

1 Fire Station, Chacka, Thiruvananthapuram

6 40

2 Fire Station, Kadappakkada, Kollam

9 12

3 Fire Station, 0 16

OMC‐KSJ Page214

Kottayam

4 Fire Station, Kayamkulam

6 8

5 Fire Station, Club‐Road, Ernakulam

0 32

6 Fire Station, Mattancherry

0 34

7 Fire Station, Thrissur 1 18

8 Fire Station, Kunnmakulam

1 21

9 Fire Station, Malappuram

7 31

10 Fire Station, Perinthalmanna

2 4

11 Fire Station, Ponnani 1 21

12 Fire Station, Palakkad

4 18

13 Fire Station, Meenchantha, Kozhikkode

8 48

14 Fire Station, Kozhikode Beech

1 16

15 Fire Station, Kannur 1 21

16 Fire Station, Thalasserry

1 22

17 Fire Station, Kasargode

1 21

18 KF&RS, Academy,Viyyur

5 6

19 Fort Kochi Training School

0 9

Total 54 398

OMC‐KSJ Page215

15.2.2 The following is revealed from above statement of family quarters:

I. There is acute shortage of family quarters.

II. Only 452 (A & B Type included) family quarters available against the

sanctioned strength of 4274 including ministerial staff. The family

accommodation is available for only 10.57% of sanctioned strength of

KF&RS department. That means average one out of ten employees is

having the comfort of family accommodation. This is really revealing.

III. The family quarters are available only at seventeen locations against the

101 locations of fire stations. The 84 locations are without any family

quarters. This is highly skewed development.

IV. It is true that at many locations there may not be much demand for family

quarters but it is really sad commentary on the affairs of the department

that there is no accommodation whatsoever at 84 locations. This cannot be

accepted as normal. It is therefore recommended that there should be at

least 10 family quarters at every fire station location either in the fire

station premises or at nearby place.

V. For constructing more than 10 family quarters at any fire station location;

the demand for family quarters at each fire station location will have to be

assessed /surveyed afresh.

VI. The demand for family quarters is generally in almost all district

headquarters and big cities. But before planning the construction of family

quarters we should find out the sought after locations for family

accommodation. The Commandant General, KF& RS department should

therefore conduct the survey in this regard among the department

personnel and ascertain the favourite locations for family

accommodations and then plan the construction of family quarters at

such favoured locations.

VII. The department should strive for at least 50% satisfaction level as far as

family accommodations is concerned in next five years beginning from F.Y.

2014‐15. That is the Govt. /Department should strive to build at least

2000 dwelling units for KF&RS department in next 5 years.

VIII. The existing dwelling units available in the department lack in basic

facilities. There is urgent need to change the design of the dwelling units of

OMC‐KSJ Page216

the KF&RS department with more rooms etc. there are only two types of

family quarters available now.

IX. There should be at least four types of family quarters for the KF&RS

department personnel. The Type –I for Fireman / LF / FDCPO / DM and

corresponding rank personnel, Type‐II for ASTO / STO and corresponding

rank personnel, Type‐III for ADO / DO and corresponding rank officers and

Type –IV for Dy. Director & above and corresponding rank senior officers.

The Commandant General, KF&RS department should devise the design

and plan for the suggested types of family quarters to be constructed

hereinafter. X. The most disturbing aspect is the total lack of interest / orientation among

the KF&RS department officers at all levels to pay concerted attention

towards acquiring land and other infra‐structure development works. The

new provisioning wing proposed in the KF&RS department headquarters

and the entire field officers at all levels shall be entrusted with this task of

finding land and revamping construction activity in the KF&RS department.

The Commandant General, KF&RS department should take necessary

initiatives in this regard.

15.3 CONSTRUCTION BY KERALA POLICE HOUSING CONSTRUCTION

CORPORATION LTD.

It is seen that the fire station buildings and family quarters of KF&RS

department are being constructed by the state PWD. It is recommended that

entire construction works of KF&RS department should be entrusted to Kerala

Police Housing Construction Corporation Ltd. The Memorandum of Association of

KPHCC Ltd. clearly states that one of the objectives of the KPHCC Ltd. would be

the construction of Fire & Rescue Services department buildings and family

quarters. The Govt. should therefore order that the construction works of KF&RS

department shall be taken over by the KPHCCwith immediate effect and allot the

construction budget of KF&RS department direct to KPHCC Ltd. instead of PWD

head of Account as being done at present.

The construction of fire stations and family quarters at Kattakada

(Thiruvananthapuram), Kazhakkuttan (Thiruvananthapuram), Kadakkal (Kollam),

OMC‐KSJ Page217

Adoor (Pathanamthitta), Seethathode (Pathanamthitta), Mananthavady

(Wayanad), Mattanur (Kannur), Kanhangad (Kassargod) and Uppala (Kassargod);

where land has already been acquired by the department should be taken over by

the KPHCC Ltd.

15.4 Public ‐ Private Partnership in construction of fire stations & family

quarters:

It to be noted here that a number of fire stations along with family quarters

have been constructed in Bengaluru city and one in Mysore city by the corporate

houses. The facilities provided are ultra‐modern in line with the corporate

ambience and culture. The Commandant General, KF&RS department can also

persuade some of the industrial concerns and other institutions in Govt. and

private sector to construct few fire station building with few family quarters in the

state on the pattern of public‐private partnership venturein construction of fire

stations & family quarters as seen in Karnataka state. The one such place which

comes to mind easily is the construction of fire station, Techno‐park for which the

land is available. This should be tried with the Techno‐park authorities.

OMC‐KSJ Page218

CHAPTER‐16

‘MODERNISATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF KERALA FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICES

ACADEMY VIYYUR,THRISSUR ’

OMC‐KSJ Page219

16. MODERNISATION / DEVELOPMENTOF KERALA FIRE & RESCUE SERVICES

ACADEMY, VIYYUR, THRISSUR

16.1.1The Fire Force Training School, Fort Kochi started functioning in the year 1964 for

imparting basic training to Fire force personnel.

16.1.2The Fire Force Training School, Fort Kochi was shifted lock, stock and barrel to

Viyyur, Thrissur and renamed as Kerala Fire and Rescue Services Academy

Viyyur, Thrissur in the year 2007 as per G.O (M.S.) No. 1788/2007 Home dated

04/07/2007. The Kerala Fire and Rescue Services Academy Viyyur, Thrissur was

inaugurated by the then Hon. Chief Minister on 12/07/2007. It is situated

adjacent to Kerala Police Academy, Thrissur and opposite to Govt. Engineering

College, Thrissur and is about 7 KMs away from Thrissur town. The Academy is

spread over in an area of 8 acres land of Its own.

16.1.3It is the one and only training centre of Kerala Fire and Rescue Services

Department for imparting basic and in‐service training to fire & rescue service

personnel. Presently the Kerala Fire and Rescue Services Academy Viyyur,

Thrissur is conducting training such as Basic Fireman training course, Basic

Fireman Driver cum Pump Operator Course, Leading Fireman (in‐service)

Course, Driver Mechanic Eligibility (in service) course, Driver Mechanic ( in

service) Course, Training of Trainers ( in service) course (for STOs, ASTOs and

LFs), Assistant Station Officers ( in service) Course, Station officers Induction (

in service) Course and Station management ( in service) course. But large

numbers of Firemen are still sent to Kerala Police Academy for basic training

for lack of adequate training facility in the Kerala Fire and Rescue Services

Academy Viyyur, Thrissur. The courses conducted at Kerala Fire and Rescue

Services Academy Viyyur, Thrissur so far since its inception is given below.

OMC‐KSJ Page220

SL.

No.

COURSES CONDUCTED AT KF&RS ACADEMY,

VIYYUR, THRISSUR

PERIOD

No. O

F TR

AINEES

KER

ALA

POLICE ACADEM

Y,

THRISSU

R

KF&

RS, A

CADEM

Y,

VIYYUR

Remarks

FROM TO

1. TOT (1St Batch)

03.08.07 23.08.07 67 67

2. TOT (2nd Batch)

06.09.07 26.09.07 46 46

3.

Basic Training Course for

Fireman Recruits (12th Batch)

22.10.07 21.04.08 383 300 83

There were 4 candidates from VSSC and 2 from FACT in this batch of 83 trainees.

4. ASTO Course In‐Service (21st Batch)

23.01.08 22.05.08 36 36

5.



24.03.08 23.09.08 349 300 49

6. L/F Course In‐Service (32nd Batch)

23.05.08 22.07.08 81 81

OMC‐KSJ Page221

7. Driver Mechanic Course In‐Service

(11th Batch)

05.06.08 4.10.08 10 10

8 candidates were Fireman Driver Cum

Pump Operator (for In‐service

training) and 2 Directly

recruited (for Basic recruit training)

8.

Sub‐Officer

( 90th Batch of Sub officer Course of NFSC, Nagpur)

02.06.08

27.06.08

35

35

Sub officer Course

trainees from National Fire & rescue services College, Nagpur

underwent attachment Course in the

KF&RS Academy. Out of these 35 trainees sent by NFSC, Nagpur, 10

were Defense personnel.

9. L/F Course In‐Service (33rd Batch)

27.06.08 26.08.08 75 75

10. L/F Course In‐Service (34th Batch)

17.09.08 15.11.08 65 65

OMC‐KSJ Page222

11.



05.11.08 4.05.09 35 35

There was one trainee from VSSC in this batch of trainees.

12. External Sub‐

Officers (22nd Batch)

01.12.08 26.12.08 27 27

Trainees from Regional Training

Center, New Delhi

sponsored by NFSC, Nagpur

13. Induction Course

of STO’s. (1st Batch)

04.12.08 17.12.08 15 15

14. ASTO Course In‐Service (22nd Batch)

16.02.09 15.6.09 31 31

15. ASTO Course In‐Service (23rd Batch)

18.06.09 19.10.09 58 58

16. Basic Training

Course for FDCPO (13th Batch)

21.10.09 20‐02‐10 9 9

17. Driver Mechanic Eligibility Course.

(1st Batch)

26.04.10 25.10.10 30 30

18. ASTO Course In‐Service (24th Batch)

10.05.10 09.09.10 38 38

19. ASTO Course In‐Service (25th Batch)

22.09.10 21.01.11 73 73

OMC‐KSJ Page223

20.

Driver Mechanic Course

In‐Service (12th Batch)

27.01.11 26.05.11 25 25

21.

Station Management

Course (1st Batch)

02.08.11 12.08.11 23 23

22. L/F Course In‐Service (35th Batch)

01.09.11 31.10.11 61 61

23.



08.06.11 07.12.11 13 13

24. Driver Mechanic

Eligibility (2 nd Batch)

15.09.11 14.03.12 23 23

25. L/F Course In‐Service (36 th Batch)

15.02.12 14.04.12 38 38


22.02.12 21.04.12 28 28

27. TOT (3rd Batch)

27.04.12 22.05.12 28 28

28.

Basic Training Course for Fireman

Recruits. (16th Batch)

11.07.12 10.01.13 523 400 123


06.08.12 05.10.12 80 80

OMC‐KSJ Page224

16.1.4 It is observed that the academy is at present conducting only basic and

promotion / in‐services courses. It should also organise the following specialised

courses for the KF&RS department officers and personnel as recommended by the

‘National Disaster Management Guidelines‐Scaling, Type of Equipment and

Training of Fire & rescue servicess; A publication of the National Disaster

Management Authority, Government of India’.

30. Driver Mechanic

Course. In‐service. (13th Batch)

17.10.12 16.02.13 12 12

31.

ASTO Course In‐Service

(26th Batch)

08.11.12 07.03.13 33 33

32.

Fireman Driver cum Pump

Operator (FDCPO) Basic Course (14th Batch)

04.03.13 04.07. 13 225 225

33. Driver Mechanic Basic Course ( 14th batch)

18.03.13 17.07. 13 1 1

34.

ASTO Course In‐Service

(27th Batch)

17.08.13 16.12. 13 39 39

35.

Ongoing Driver Mechanic Eligibility

Course (3rd Batch)

17.08.13 16.02. 14 16 16

Grand Total 2631 1000 1631

OMC‐KSJ Page225

i. Basic Disaster course,

ii. General Search &Rescue Course,

iii. Fire Fighting First Responder Course

iv. Collapsed structure : Search & Rescue Course

v. Flood / Cyclone Disaster Response Course

vi. Earthquake Disaster Response Course

vii. Breathing Apparatus Course

viii. Fire Prevention Course

These courses should be conducted only after the development of

proper training infrastructure and creation of adequate number of training posts

in the academy as recommended in this report. The details of the curriculum are

also given in the above quoted NDMA publication. These courses will enhance the

professionalism of the KF&RS department officers and personnel.

16.1.5 TRAINING OF OUTSIDERS AT KF&RS ACADEMY:

The facilities at KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur can also be utilized for

imparting training to the persons sponsored by other Government agencies, PSUs,

private companies/organisations and private individuals in firefighting techniques.

There are several private institutions engaged in the business of imparting training

in firefighting techniques to the private individuals and thriving by collecting

substantial amount of training fees. The training imparted at KF&RS Academy,

Viyyur, Thrissur will be qualitatively far superior to the training given by private

fire training institutions. We achieve the following objectives by such initiative.

First; this will be a revenue generation scheme for the KF&RS department, Second;

the resources (manpower and equipment) of academy will be put to continuous

use without remaining idle, third; the private persons will get quality training since

OMC‐KSJ Page226

academy has qualified instructors with vast experience in the field of firefighting

and rescue operations, fourth; the candidates will be issued with a certificates at

the successful completion of the training that will help them to get job in various

firefighting organisations. The revenue thus generated from these courses can be

utilised for the modernization needs of the KF&RS Academy and the other

modernisation requirements of the KF&RS department.

But before taking up the task of offering training to the persons sponsored by

other Government agencies, PSUs, private companies/organisations and private

individuals in firefighting techniques; the training infrastructure and training

manpower of the academy will have to be substantially enhanced as suggested in

this proposal. The proposed courses can be as following.

16.1.6PROPOSED COURSES:

Sl. No. Name of course

Duration Eligibility Training Fees in

rupees Remarks

1

Diploma in Fire

Fighting& Engineering

6monthS

Plus‐two with science

subjects with Chemistry as one of the

main subjects

To be decided by CG, KF&RS by

having consultation with the NFSC,Nagpur

2 First Aid Fire Fighting

1month SSLC To be decided by

CG, KF&RS

3 Industrial Safety

1month SSLC with Science subjects

To be decided by CG, KF&RS

Recommendation of

concerned firm shall be

made essential

OMC‐KSJ Page227

4

Basic Fire Fighting & Safety

Regulations

10 working days

Not specified To be decided by

CG, KF&RS

Applicable for those already

working or seeking

employment in the SSI units, LPG / other gas / chemical tanker Drivers / handlers, Lorry / Taxi Drivers,

Petrol pump workers and

staff engaged in Explosive

manufacturing units / shops etc

5

Operation of fixed

firefighting installations in the high

rise buildings / apartments

5 days Not specified To be decided by

CG, KF&RS

Those already

employed or seeking

employment as security guards in

the high rise buildings / apartments.

6

Basic Fire Fighting and Disaster

Management

One week

No Fee

School / College Physical Training Teachers.

OMC‐KSJ Page228

These teachers in turn will conduct

awareness classes in their

respective schools / colleges

about basic firefighting and disaster management

16.1.7The above mentioned courses are only suggestive in nature. The KF&RS

department can devise any number of courses for outsiders taking in to

consideration their training infra‐structure and availability of trainers. The syllabus

for Diploma in Firefighting & Engineering should be prepared by the Director /

Deputy Director KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur in consultation with NFSC,

Nagpur and the statutory technical educational authority of the State

Government. The Govt. order will be required for conducting this course. The

syllabus for other courses will be prepared by the Director / Deputy Director

KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur and approved by the Commandant General,

KF&RS, Department. They can be modified and re‐designed once the scheme

comes into effect. The academy can also devise /design the training courses for

the Government agencies, PSUs and private industries according to their specific

professional requirements.

OMC‐KSJ Page229

16.1.8The present existing manpower strength of the Kerala Fire and Rescue Services Academy Viyyur, Thrissur.

Sl. No Designation Sanctioned Present Vacancy

1 Deputy Director 01 01 Nil

2 Manager 01 01 Nil

3 Asst. Divisional officer 01 01 Nil

4 Station Officer 01 01 Nil

5 Station Officer (M.T) 01 01 Nil

6 Junior Supdt. 01 01 Nil

7 Asst. Station Officer 01 01 Nil

8 Leading Fireman 02 02 Nil

9 Fireman 05 05 Nil

10 Fireman Driver 04 04 Nil

11 UDC 02 02 NIl

12 LDC 01 01 Nil

13 LD Typist 01 Nil 01

14 Cook 01 01 Nil

15 Water Carrier 01 01 Nil

16 Part time sweeper 01 01 Nil

Total 25 24 01

The posts of Deputy Director (Admn.), Manager, Junior Superintendent and

one LDC in serial numbers 1, 2, 6 and 12 above respectively were shifted from

Kerala Fire &Rescue Service Headquarters Tvpm to Kerala Fire &Rescue Service

Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur vide order No. GO. (M.s) No. 131/ 2009/ Home dated

17.08. 2009. These posts will have to be shifted back to Kerala Fire & Rescue

OMC‐KSJ Page230

Service Headquarters Tvpm; once the new posts are created for the Kerala Fire

&Rescue Service Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur.

The posts of ADO (1‐Nos), Station Officer (1‐Nos), Asst. Station officer (1‐

Nos), LF (2‐Nos), Fireman (5‐Nos), Fireman Driver cum Pump Operator (4‐Nos),

UDC (2‐Nos), LD typist (1‐Nos), Cook (1‐Nos), Water Carrier (1‐Nos), and Part Time

Sweeper (1‐Nos), mentioned in serial numbers 3,4,5, 7 to 11 and 13 to 16 above

respectively were permanently shifted from Fire Force Training School, Fort Kochi

at the time of opening of Kerala Fire & Rescue Services academy, Viyyur, Thrissur

in 2007.

The one post of Station Officer (MT) was subsequently created in Kerala Fire

& Rescue Services academy, Viyyur, Thrissur during 2012.

16.1.9It is therefore very clear that not even a single training instructor’s and

administrative post has been created since the opening of the Kerala Fire &

Rescue Services academy, Viyyur, Thrissur in 2007. This is a serious handicap not

only in the day‐to‐day running of the academy but proving a stumbling block in

the development of the academy in to a full‐fledged training institution of repute

and excellence.

16.1.10The modernisation and development of the Kerala Fire & Rescue Services

Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur is of utmost importance because a full‐fledged training

institution with all the facilities is urgently required to meet the training

requirements of the Kerala Fire & Rescue Services department. A large number of

Firemen are still sent to Kerala Police Academy for basic training due to lack of

adequate training facility and training faculty in the Kerala Fire and Rescue

Services Academy Viyyur, Thrissur. The modernisation and development of Kerala

Fire and Rescue Services Academy Viyyur, Thrissur is absolutely essential for its

OMC‐KSJ Page231

recognition as Regional Training Centre and accreditation /affiliation to NFSC,

Nagpur so that the basic training of STOs and other mandatory in‐service trainings

courses for STOs, ADOs and DOs can be conducted here itself. At present they are

sent to NFSC, Nagpur for which we have to depend on their training schedule and

availability of seats for each in‐service training course. This adversely affects our

training needs and opportunities. We can our self organise more frequent in‐

service and other professionally relevant courses to better equip and train our fire

and rescue service personnel. A professionally conceived and organised training

academy is therefore a sin‐ qua‐ non for the growth and development of any

organisation. The modernisation and development of Kerala Fire and Rescue

Services Academy Viyyur, Thrissur is therefore being suggested with the following

components.

i) CREATION OF NEW POSTS

TRAINING STAFF

TRAINING ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT STAFF

MINISTERIAL STAFF

ii) INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT

PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE

MOBILITY INFRASTRUCTURE

TRAINING INFRASTRUCTURE

iii) PROVISION FOR SUFFICIENT BUDGET ALLOCATION

16.2CREATION OF NEW POSTS:

16.2.1As mentioned above not even a single post of training, administrative and

ministerial staff has been created since the opening of the Kerala Fire & Rescue

Services academy, Viyyur, Thrissur in 2007. The affairs of academy are being

OMC‐KSJ Page232

managed by the meager staff strength of 25 posts. Out of which; the posts of

Deputy Director (Admn.), Manager, Junior Superintendent and one LDC were

shifted from Kerala Fire &Rescue Service Headquarters Tvpm to Kerala Fire

&Rescue Service Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur vide order No. GO. (M.s) No. 131/

2009/ Home dated 17.08. 2009. Subsequently, during 2012‐13 the post of Deputy

Director (Admn.) was shifted back to KFRS Hqrs and Director (Technical) KFRS Hqrs

transferred to KFRS Academy. These posts of Director (Technical), Manager, Junior

Superintendent and one LDC will have to be shifted back to Kerala Fire & Rescue

Service Headquarters Tvpm once the new posts are created for the Kerala Fire

&Rescue Service Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur. Therefore the following complement

of training, administrative and ministerial staff is being proposed for its proper

day‐to‐day functioning and meeting the growth and developmental requirement

of the Kerala Fire &Rescue Service Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur.

16.2.2PROPOSAL FOR CREATING NEW POSTS OF TRAINING STAFF.

SL.

No. Designation Existing

post New post proposed

Total Post

Remarks

1 Deputy Director (Training)

0 1 1 The post of Deputy Director (Admn.) was shifted to Kerala Fire &Rescue Service Academy, viyyur, Thrissur vide order No. GO. (M.s) No. 131/ 2009/ Home dated 17.08. 2009. Subsequently, during 2012‐13 the post of

2 Assistant Director (Trg)( in the rank of Divisional

Officer)

0 1 1

3 Senior Instructors

(in the rank of Assistant Divisional Officer)

1 5 6

4 Instructors

(in the rank of Station Officers)

1 9 10

OMC‐KSJ Page233

5 Assistant instructors (in the rank of Asst Station Officers)

1 10 11 Deputy Director

(Admn.) was shifted back to KFRS Hqrs

and Director (Technical) KFRS Hqrs transferred to KFRS Academy. This post is to be reverted back

to KF&RS Headquarters, once

new posts are created in Kerala Fire &Rescue Service Academy, Viyyur,

Thrissur.

6 Senior Demonstrators (in the rank of Leading

Fireman)

2 13 15

7 Junior Demonstrators ( in the rank of Fireman)

5 20 25

8 Driver Mechanic 0 2 2

9 Fireman Driver Cum

Pump Operator (FDCPO) Instructors

4 11 15

10 Senior Swimming

Demonstrators (in the rank of Leading fireman)

0 3 3

11 Junior Swimming Demonstrators

( in the rank of Fireman)

0 5 5

12 Lab Assistant 0 1 1

Total 14 81 95

OMC‐KSJ Page234

16.2.3The above statement makes it abundantly clear that there is acute shortage

of training instructors in all ranks in the Kerala Fire &Rescue Service Academy,

Viyyur, Thrissur. How can we ensure quantity and quality of training with such

negligible training instructors? Isn’t this an appalling state of affairs? At present

the shortage of instructors is being met by temporarily attaching officers and

personnel’s from the Fire & Rescue Station from across the state to Kerala Fire

&Rescue Service Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur for training purposes. But this practice

is not advisable because it is denuding the Fire & Rescue Stations of their precious

manpower and detrimental to the overall operational efficiency of the

department. At the same time their commitment to the training is also not to the

desired level. The result is both the domain of departmental activity is adversely

affected. It is naïve to believe that training institutions can be run and sustained

without posting adequate and qualified instructors. The ad‐hocism may be

acceptable in short run but it will be detrimental to the long term interest of the

training institution. The shortage of instructors has already adversely affected the

quantity and quality of training in Kerala Fire &Rescue department. The

cumulative negative effect of such prolonged shortage of training instructors is

indeed colossal. One should also remember an old axiom that an ill‐trained

soldier is worse than the un‐trained soldier. Moreover the Fire &Rescue

department personnel’s are expected to be specialist in limited area of firefighting

and rescue operations. They are required to know the functioning of all types of

firefighting and rescue equipments, which call for some basic level technical

orientation and skill and this technical skill is imparted in the basic and in‐service

trainings. Therefore the necessity of adequate number of instructors for the

Kerala Fire &Rescue Service Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur cannot wrapped under

carpet for long. The above proposed training staff is bare minimum and absolute

OMC‐KSJ Page235

must for ensuring satisfactory level of quantity and quality of training in the Kerala

Fire &Rescue Service Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur.

16.2.4PROPOSAL FOR CREATING NEW POSTS OF TRAINING

ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT STAFF.

SL No Designation Existing

post

New post

proposed Total Post

1 Librarian 0 1 1

2 Cook 1 9 10

3 Water Carrier / Helper 1 7 8

4 Sweeper 1 4 5

5 Barber 0 2 2

6 Dhobi 0 3 3

7 Fireman (Carpenter)

0 1 1

8 Fireman (Plumber)

0 1 1

9 Fireman (Electrician) 0 1 1

10 Fireman (Blacksmith)

0 1 1

11 Fireman(Welding)

0 1 1

12 Station Officer (Store)

0 1 1

13 Leading Fireman (Store)

0 1 1

14 Fireman (Store)

0 2 2

Total 3 35 38

OMC‐KSJ Page236

16.2.5Imagine just one cook, one water carrier and one sweeper for the entire

academy. How can just one cook and one water carrier cook food three times a

day for 365 days for trainees?This is humanly impossible. The administrative

arrangements in the academy to train so many trainees at regular interval are

really pathetic. What are we trying to prove or convey to our officers and

personnel in the department? What impression the new entrant will have for the

Kerala Fire &Rescue Services department once he begins his training in the

academy? And there are no barber, dhobi, carpenter, plumber, electrician

sanctioned and posted in the Kerala Fire &Rescue Service Academy, Viyyur,

Thrissur. Is the administrative staff of just one cook, one water carrier and one

sweeper adequate for providing the administrative support to the academy which

is conducting basic and in‐service courses at regular intervals? The answer is big

‘NO’. It is therefore abundantly clear that the meagre strength of three

administrative staff cannot any longer sustain the ongoing and future training

activity of the Kerala Fire &Rescue Service Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur. No training

institution can be managed without the adequate complement of administrative

staff. A sound administrative cover is must for any training institution. One can

ignore the requirement ofadministrative staff for operational/training needs at

one’s own peril. The above proposed administrative staff is bare minimum and

must for the day‐to‐day proper functioning of the Kerala Fire &Rescue Service

Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur.

OMC‐KSJ Page237

16.2.6PROPOSAL FOR CREATING NEW POSTS OF MINISTERIAL STAFF:

SL No.

Designation Existing post

New post proposed

Total Post

Remarks

1 Manager 1 ‐ 1

The post of Manager& Junior Superintendent

and one post of LDC were shifted From KFRS

Headquarters to the Fire & Rescue Service

Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur vide Order No. G.O. (M.S) No.131/2009/Home Dtd

17.8.2009.

2 Junior Superintendent 1 ‐ 1

3 Head Accountant 0 1 1

4 Lower Division Clerk(LDC)

1 2 3

5 Confidential Assistant Gr.2

0 1 1

6 Lower Division Typist 1 1 2

7 Last Grade Servant/ Peon

0 2 2

8 Gardner 0 1 1

Total 1 11 12

The office staffs are another essential requirement of any training

institution. This need no justification and needs no further elucidation.

16.2.7It needs to be re‐iterated here again that no training institution can be

functional without the adequate complement of training, administrative and

ministerial staff. These are just very –very minimal requirements for any training

institution.

OMC‐KSJ Page238

16.3 INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT:

16.3.1PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT:

The Kerala Fire and Rescue Services Academy Viyyoor, Thrissur is

functioning in 8 acres of land of its own with some basic facilities. It has

one administrative block comprising of Ground floor, first floor and

second floor. The administrative block is being utilized for office

functions and holding classes. The hostel block comprises of Ground

floor, first floor and second floor. It is provided with dining hall and

kitchen facilities. There is a small parade ground with a capacity of

giving out door training to about two hundred trainees at a time. The

construction of a swimming pool with a dimension of 18 meter x 15

meter is nearing completion. A total of 11 family quarters (Type II – 6,

Type III – 4, Type IV – 1) are also available in the academy premises.

16.3.2 The following additional physical infrastructure is urgently

required for full‐fledged functioning of academy.

The Academy requires more land for its proper functioning.

Therefore it is needed to look for additional land near to the

present location of academy or elsewhere. The land of

erstwhile Fire Force Training School at Fort Kochi can also

developed for conducting some selected training courses. But

that places will also have to be developed and some training

infra‐structure needs to be created there.

There is need for a minimum three storey barrack building with

all the facilities for accommodation of minimum 300 trainees as

the present hostel facility is not sufficient.

OMC‐KSJ Page239

The existing parade ground is not sufficient for the training

requirement. Therefore either the present parade ground needs

to be extended /enlarged or another parade ground to be

raised.

The requirement for 30 rooms (single and double) hostel

building for officers with attached bath room facility.

More family quarters are to be constructed in the academy for

accommodating the staff of the academy.

Building for Model Fire & Rescue Station

The playgroundfacility for games /sports needs to be created.

16.3.3 MOBILITY INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT:

The state of availability of vehicles in the academy is very poor. At

present there are two jeeps and one mini bus only in the Academy. This

being a training institution it requires a number of general duty vehicles

for various administrative and training requirements. Therefore the

following general duty vehicles are urgently required for smooth

functioning of Kerala Fire and Rescue Services Academy Viyyoor,

Thrissur.

Innova / Scorpio ‐ 2

Bolero jeep ‐ 5

Bus (45 or 39 Seater) ‐ 2

Mini buses (31 Seater) – 2

Pick up van ‐ 2

Motor cycles ‐ 5

OMC‐KSJ Page240

Lorry (Medium type) ‐1

Water Tanker/ Lorry – 1

16.3.4 TRAINING INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT:

Any training academy requires the vehicles &equipments that are

used by that department in day to day operational functioning for

exposure and practical training of trainees. Therefore Kerala Fire and

Rescue Services Academy Viyyoor, Thrissur needs the fire fighting

vehicles, appliances and equipments that are in the inventory of the

department. The Academy possesses only limited number of equipments

and appliances. During training, vehicles, appliances and equipments are

being shifted from various Fire &Rescue stations on temporary basis for

the purpose of training of trainees. This affects the normal functioning

of Fire & Rescue Stations. In fact Academy requires all the advanced

equipments and vehicles for demonstration and practical training

purposes.

A) The following is the list of vehicles neededfor training

purposes in the academy:

SL.

No Type of Vehicle Requirement

1 Water Tender 1

2 Mini water Tender& Motor Cycle with

Mist Technology 1

3 Emergency Tender with Rescue

Equipment’s 1

4 Water Bouser 1

OMC‐KSJ Page241

5 Crash Tender 1

6 Turn Table Ladder (T.T.L) 1

7 Hydraulic Platform 1

8 Hazmat vehicle with equipment’s 1

9 Breathing Apparatus (B.A.) Van 1

10 Fuel Tanker 1

11 Bulk Water Carrier 1

12 Wireless Van 1

13 Salvage Tender 1

14 Dry Chemical Power (DCP) Tender 1

15 Portable Pumps 1

16 Hose Laying Lorry 1

17 Mobile Crane 1

18 Mobile Recovery Van 1

19 Ambulance 1

20 Trailer Fire Pumps 1

21 Software Package 1

22 Rescue van with container SAR I, SA II, MFR

1

23 Fixed Fire Safety Installations 1

OMC‐KSJ Page242

B) THE FOLLOWING EQUIPMENTS ARE REQUIRED FOR ANY

FIRE SERVICE TRAINING INSTITUTION:

EQUIPMENT LIST

1. Hydraulic Cutter 61. Chain Pulley Block (100 to 1000 Kg.)

2. Hydraulic Spreader 62. Coromandel Ropes

(8,10,12 and 13 mm)

3. Hydraulic Combi tools 63. Anchor Plate

4. Hydraulic Telescopic Ram 64. Tripod

5. Power Hammer 65. Roll Tapes

6. Rotary Hammer 66. Rigging Plate

7. Power Chisel 67. Carabineers Different Types

8. Power bore Drill 68. Ascender

9. Power Drill 69. Descender

10. Power Spreader 70. Anchor Plate

11. Telescopic Power Ram 71. Anchor

12. Power Circular Saw 72. Automatic Ascender

13. Pneumatic Lifting Bags(Different sizes)

73. Rope Launcher

14. Sealing kit 74. Tirfor

15. Sizing kit 75. Pulley Blocks (1, 1/2, 2/3)

16. Delsar 76. Rope Sealing Kit

17. Victim Location Camera 77. Lifebuoy

OMC‐KSJ Page243

18. Thermal Image Camera 78. Life Jacket

19. Snake Eye Camera 79. Rubber Boat

20. Remote ReceiveCamera

80. Asgard Boat with OBM

21. Man Detector 81. Water Rescue Equipment Kit

22. Con‐space 82. Communication Kit

23. Gas Detector 83. Ham Radio

24. Smoke Detector 84. Power Lifter

25. Heat Detector 85. Scramble Net

26. Power Chain Saw 86. Floating Aids

27. Circular Saw 87. De‐contamination Set

28. Bullet Diamond Saw 88. Canister Bag

29. Concrete Saw 89. Breathing Apparatus

30. Wooden Saw 90. Holster

31. Devalt wooden Saw 91. Retractor

32. Fireman Kit 92. Body Harness with Pad

33. Nail Gun 93. Metz

34. Nail Pockets 94. Smoke Exhauster

35. Different Measuring Tape 95. Portable Floating Water

Pump

36. Wedges 96. Manikins Different Size

(Child/Adult)

37. Rubber Pad 97. Wound Kit

OMC‐KSJ Page244

38. Nail Pad 98. Splint Kit

39. Pine Wood Kit 99. Portable AED

40. Shoring System(Gray and Gold)

100. Portable Oxygen Cylinder

41. Gen. Set (petrol) 101. Human Body Stretcher

42. Gen. Set (Electrical) 102. Fire Blanket

43. Gen. Set (portable) 103. Burn Shield Water Gel

Blanket

44. Flood Light 104. Insects Protection Suit

45. Telescopic Light 105. Chemical Protective Clothing

46. Portable Light 106. Fire Entry Suit

47. Searching Light 107. Fire Proximity Suit

48. Head Search Lamp 108. Photographic Equipments

with accessories

49. Dust Plug 109. Rescue Belt

50. Air Plug 110. Light Weight BA Sets

51. Nose Plug 111. Under Water BA Sets

(SCUBA)

52. Eye Shield 112. BA Cylinder Compressor Unit

53. Leather Hand Gloves 113. Airline Equipments

54. Leather Apron 114. Inflatable tower Light

55. Ear Muff 115. Inflatable Tent

56. Elbow Pad 116. Life detector

57. Knee Pad 117. Thermal Imaging Camera

58. Small Combi Tools 118. Victim Location Camera

OMC‐KSJ Page245

59. Manual Saw Kit 119. Video Camera

60. Different Hammer 120. Modern P A System

HOSE

1. Delivery Hose (38,63,100,150 mm) 11. Hose Winding Solution

2. Suction Hose (75,100,150 mm) 12. Hose Winding Wires

3. Suction Hose Partially Embedded,

Fully Embedded (100 mm) 13. Hose Winding Tool Kit

4. Hose Ramp (Wooden, Aluminium) 14. Hose Storage Rack

5. Hose Clamp 15. Hose Tower

6. Hose Jacket 16. Hose Testing Machine

7. Hose Winding Machine i) Caliper

8. Hose Washing Machine ii) Discharge

9. Hose Punching Machine iii) Meter Tape

10. Hose Ripid iv) Jet Throw

v) Wet Machine

HOSE FITTINGS

1. Adapter xi) Twin Branch

(Simon)

i) Double Male Adapter xii) Metal Strainer

OMC‐KSJ Page246

ii) Female to Male

Adapter xiii) Basket Strainer

iii) Male to Female

Adapter xiv) Cotton Strainer

iv) Double Female

Adapter xv) Football Strainer

v) Suction Adapter xvi) Ejector Pump

2. Dividing Breaching xvii) Deep Lift Pump

3. Control Dividing

Breaching xviii) Steer up Pump

4. Blank Cap (Male and

Female 63 , 100 mm) xix) Universal wrenches

5. Collecting Breaching xx) Conventional

Wrenches

6. London Control Branch 11) Rapid Action Branch

Kit

7. Two Way Collecting

Head i) Piston Branch

8. Three Way Collecting

Head 12) First Aid Nozzle

9. Four Way Collecting

Head 13) Hydrant

10. Branches i)

Hydrant Cut Model

(Sluice, Screw, Ball

Type Hydrant)

OMC‐KSJ Page247

i) Ordinary Branch ii) Pillar and Post

Hydrant

ii) Fog iii) Hydrant Different

Flinch

iii) Shrion iv) Hydrant Flinch

Washer

iv) Oil Fire v) Hydrant Spindle

v) Water Jet (Jumbo Jet

Curtain) vi) Tommy Bar

vi) Ex‐regular Branch vii) Water Iron Key

vii) Low Pressure

Applicator viii) Pit Cover Key

viii) Revolving Branch ix) Stand Pipe (One

Way/Two Way)

ix) Revolving Head x) Hydrant Testing Kit

x) Diffuser Branch xi) Spanner Kit Box

FOAM

1. 5X Foam Branch 8. Ten Generator

2. FB2 Foam

Branch 9. Foam Generator

3. FB10 Foam

Branch 10.

Electric Foam

Generator

4. FB 20 Foam 11. Turbine

OMC‐KSJ Page248

Branch

5. Inline Inductor 12. Pickup Tube

6. Knapsack Tank 13. Carry Gutted Tube

7. Five Generator

SMALL AND SPECIAL GEAR

1. Pick Axe 13. Ceiling Hook

2. Large Axe 14. Drag Hook

3. Crow Bar 15. Force Hook

4. Mattok 16. Wooden Steel

Shroud Lever

5. Spade 17. Wind Chute

6. Showel 18. Salvage Nail

7.

Net Fire

Beater

(Asbestos)

19. Hammer

8. Bolt Cutter 20. Hydraulic Jack

9. Tin Cutter 21. Mechanical Jack

10. Spreader 22. Different Types of

Jack

11. Quick Release

Knife 23. Ladders

12. Fireman Axe Different Size of

Ladder

OMC‐KSJ Page249

i)

Hook, Extension,

Roof,Escape, Truss

Type, Wooden

(20,25,35,45 feet)

LADDER TESTING EQUIPMENT

1. Weights

SALVAGE

1. Salvage Sheet (12X12,

12X15, 15X18) 4.

Wall

Catcher

2. Hopper 5. Salvage Kit

3. Nail

ROPES

1. Vegetable

Rope 4. Nylon Rope

2. Manila Rope 5.

Coromandel Rope

(Different Size‐

12mm, 14 mm.)

3. Synthetic

Rope

PUMPS

1. Different Types of Capacity Pump

OMC‐KSJ Page250

C) THE FOLLOWING IS THE LIST OF TACTICAL TRAINING

EQUIPMENTS FOR THE TRAINING GROUND IN ANY FIRE SERVICE

TRAINING INSTITUTION:

Sl.

No. NAME OF THE EQUIPMENTS

1. All types of extinguisher cut module

2. All types of Hose and Hose fitting equipment

cut module

3. All types of pump cut model

4. Cut module Four stroke 6 cylinder engine.

5. All types of rope model

6. Auxiliary gear box cut model

7. Air condition cooling system cut model

8. Breathing operator cut model

9. Hydraulic testing machine

10. Hydrant testing equipment

11. Types of Hydrant equipment model

12. Types of Ladder model

13. RCC building construction model

14. Ropes and Lines models and chart

15. Squad drill chart

16. Fire drill chart

17. Types of electrical cables models

OMC‐KSJ Page251

18. Types of Transform model

19. Types of fixed Firefighting installation model

20. Deluge valve system model

21. Breathing operator training gallery

22. Hose tower

23. Fire Tray in different size

24. Types of Fire extinguisher, Type A,B,C,D

(cartridge type)

25. Types of Extinguisher , Stored pressure A,B,C.

26. Hydraulic pressure testing machine

27. Hose testing equipment

28. Hydrant testing equipment

29. Ladder testing equipment

30. Extinguisher testing equipment

31. Foam and Foam equipment (Foam branch

and generator).

32. Salvage kit (attach list.)

33. Small gears (attach list.)

34. Special gears (attach list.)

35. Hydraulic testing equipment

36. Plan reading charts

37. Rope rescue equipment as per list

OMC‐KSJ Page252

38. Sewer rescue equipment as per list

39. Ship Fire Model

40. All types of Fire Tender and Crash Tender

41. Water relay charts

42. Water distribution and charts

43. Fire alarm system model

44. Life safety equipment

45. A level, B level and C level suite

46. Wireless system

47. VHF radio set

48. First aid kit

49. All types of trauma casualty kit

50. All types of respiratory system equipment

51. All types of splinting

52. All types of electrical lighting equipments

53. All type of stretchers and wheel chairs

54. Water missed gun , Foam missed gun

55. Gas Fire model

56. All types of station Administration register

and book

57. All types of chemical testing equipment

58. Ruler fire equipment

OMC‐KSJ Page253

59. Means of escape chart

60. Rescue techniques chart

61. Wet riser and Dry riser cut model

62. Combi small gears

63. All types of PPE (Personal protective

equipment)

64. Decontamination shower (body, eye, hand)

65. Chemical disaster decontamination set

66. Types of monitor

67. Breathing operator control board equipment

68. Trolley mounted BA set

69. Types of canister (Respiratory equipment)

70. Telescopic try pot

71. Foam testing equipment

72. Hose winding machine

73. Hose washing machine

74. Hose patching machine

75. Gas Fire Tray

76. Tube well Rescue model

77 Training Smoke Gallery / chamber / Room

In case of any emergency the vehicles and equipments of the KF&RS

Academy can be utilized for operational duties also.

OMC‐KSJ Page254

D) MODEL FIRE STATION:

A model Fire Station is required in the Academy to expose the

trainees with the regular activities of a fire station, during the course of

training. This will help in enhancing the standard of the training.

E) SIMULATOR:

Construction of a simulator will be helpful for giving advanced training to

personnel of KF&RS department in confined space rescue, smoke room entry,

smoke room rescue, BA set training and industrial or normal firefighting scenario

etc.The above mentioned training Smoke Gallery / chamber / Room is

nothing but a simulator. This smoke gallery is very crucial training

equipment in understanding the real fire scenario in smoke filled areas.

This smoke gallery has been built by Drager Safety AG & CO. KGaA;

Germanyin NFSC, Nagpur and R.A.Mundkur Fire & Emergency Services

Training Academy, Banguluru, Karnataka.We should also procure the

portable simulator for BA set training, fire training and rescue

operation training.

F) LIBRARY:

Establishing a library is sine qua non for any training institution. One can’t

visualize a training institution without a library. The growth of professionalism in

the department is directly linked to the exposure of its personnel to latest

developments in the field of firefighting and fire engineering. This is also necessary

for research work in the field of firefighting to be undertaken in future.

OMC‐KSJ Page255

G) COMPUTER LAB:

This is an era of ‘Knowledge & Information Technology’ and computer

knowledge is a must for every person. Therefore establishing computer Lab for

giving training to trainees in field of computer science is in the general spirit of

advancement in the society. This is also required for the successful

implementation of e‐governance initiatives of the department.

H) LABORATORY FACILITY:

Constituting a laboratory for conducting practical training will be helpful for

understanding fire as well as toxic behaviour of various hazardous chemicals. It

also will be helpful for proper fire investigation, fire extinction and research work.

We should try to build the following laboratories for imparting practical training to

fire & rescue services personnel in the areas that are extremely useful to their

professional work.

Fluid Mechanics, Water Supplies & Hydraulic Machinery Laboratory

Applied Mechanics & Strength of Material Laboratory

Electrical Technology & Electronic Laboratory

Communication Laboratory

Mechanical Engineering & Town Planning Laboratory

Chemistry Laboratory for all hazardous materials

Mechanical Drawing Hall

Building Materials & Structure Technology Laboratory

Fire test Laboratory

Fire Protection Laboratory

Heat & Combustion Laboratory

Fire Fighting & Rescue Equipment Laboratory

OMC‐KSJ Page256

I) GYMNASIUM:

A gymnasium is highly essential for giving physical fitness to trainees in

Kerala Fire and Rescue Services Academy Viyyoor, Thrissur. It is an obvious

requirement of any training institution in the modern times.

J) AUTOMOBILE WORKSHOP:

An automobile workshop is required for practical demonstration classes

of the Fireman Driver cum Pump Operator (FDCPO) and Driver Mechanic courses.

This workshop will be under the charge of MTO posted in the academy.

K) TRAINING ALLOWANCE:

At present the training allowance is sanctioned to Station officer and Leading

Fireman posted in the Kerala Fire and Rescue Services Academy Viyyoor,

Thrissur only. The training allowance for the station officer is Rs.90/‐ per month

and for leading fireman is Rs.80/‐ per month. This facility of training allowance

needs to be extended for all the officers and other personal posted and to be

sanctioned in the Kerala Fire and Rescue Services Academy Viyyoor,

Thrissur. The amount of training allowance has been suggested in the chapter of

this report dealing with ‘Incentives and Motivation’.

16.4Accreditation of Kerala Fire and Rescue Services Academy Viyyoor as Regional Training Center:

The Kerala Fire and Rescue Services Academy, Viyyoor is listed to

be notified as Regional Training Centre for imparting advanced training

in firefighting and fire engineering. The Director, National Fire & rescue

services College, Nagpur is required to visit the academy for this purpose.

If, the Kerala Fire and Rescue Services Academy, Viyyoor is

accredited/affiliated to National Fire & rescue services College, Nagpur as

OMC‐KSJ Page257

Regional Training Centre, then it is likely to get some central govt.

assistance for development of the training infrastructures and Kerala Fire

& Rescue Services personnel can undergo obligatory courses like Sub

Officer’s Course, Station Officer’s Course, Instructors Course and

Divisional Officer’s Course etc in Fire and Rescue Service Academy,

Viyyur itself, and certificates will be issued by the NFSC, Nagpur. After

obtaining accreditation / affiliation the Kerala Fire and Rescue Services

Academy, Viyyoor can also conduct courses for general public and industry

personnel which will become an income generating program for the KF&RS

department /Govt. of Kerala. The Commandant General, KF&RS department

should therefore liaise with the Director, NFSC, Nagpur and DG NDRF &CD (Fire) in

this regard to expedite the matter as the preliminary actions have already been

initiated for the accreditation / affiliation of the Kerala Fire and Rescue Services

Academy, Viyyur as Regional Training Centre.

The modernisation and development of Kerala Fire and Rescue Services

Academy, Viyyoor, Thrissur is therefore absolutely essential from all

angles.

16.5Provision for Sufficient Budget Allocation:

A separate Head of Account ‘2070‐OAS‐ 108‐97(3) Training” is allotted to

Fire and Rescue services Academy, Viyyoor, Thrissur by the Finance

department. The funds allotted to the Academy are generally insufficient in

almost all the ‘Heads’ for conducting day to day activities. Additional funds

cannot be sanctioned by the Head of the Department even at the time of re‐

appropriation. Each time Academy has to approach Govt. for additional funds.

Therefore the budget allotment under various ‘Heads’ needs to be substantially

OMC‐KSJ Page258

enhanced to run the day to day affairs of Kerala Fire and Rescue services

Academy, Viyyoor, Thrissur properly and adequately.

16.6TIME FRAME / LINE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF KF&RS ACADEMY, VIYYUR;

16.6.1The above mentioned blueprint for the modernisation and development of

Kerala Fire and Rescue services Academy, Viyyoor, Thrissur may be

implemented in a phased manner keeping in mind the financial and

administrative difficulties of the Govt. and department. The

following time frame is suggested for the phased manner

modernisation and development plan of Kerala Fire and Rescue services

Academy, Viyyoor, Thrissur.

16.6.2 The creation of posts of Deputy Director, Assistant Director,

Training Instructors in the category of training staff, various training

administrative support staff and ministerial staff as explained above of this

report is the first and foremost priority to kick start the modernization and

development process of Kerala Fire and Rescue services Academy,

Viyyoor, Thrissur in an earnest spirit in the financial year 2014‐15

and 2015‐16. The financial commitment in creation of these posts

has been worked out in the Annuxures ‘A’, ‘B’ and ‘C’ to this

chapter. The abstract is as follows.

i. Estimated annual expenditure on salaries for the creation

of new posts of deputy director / assistant director /

instructors/demonstrators (training staff) in Fire & Rescue

Services Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur:‐ Rs. 18751632/‐

OMC‐KSJ Page259

ii. Estimated annual expenditure on salaries for the creation

of new posts of training administrative support staff in Fire &

Rescue Services Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur:‐ Rs. 5699544/‐

iii. Estimated annual expenditure on salaries for the creation

of new post of ministerial staff in Fire & Rescue Services

Academy, viyyur, Thrissur:‐ Rs. 1403310/‐

iv. The total annual financial commitment on salaries for

creation of new posts in Fire & Rescue Services Academy,

viyyur, Thrissur. :‐Rs. 25854486/‐(Rupees Two Crore Fifty

Eight Lakhs Fifty Four Thousand Four Hundred and Eighty

Six). (Rs. 18751632/‐ + Rs. 5699544/‐ + Rs. 1403310/‐).

16.6.3 It is to be mentioned here that not even a single post of training

instructors, training administrative support staff and ministerial staff has

been created since the opening of the Kerala Fire & Rescue Services

academy, Viyyur, Thrissur in 2007. The sanctioning of new posts is

therefore long overdue.

16.6.4A number of new posts have been proposed in this chapter as part

of the modernization /development of KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur.

The summary of the new posts to be created in the KF&RS Academy,

Viyyur, Thrissuras part of its modernization plan is furnished below.

Sl. No.

New Posts to be created in KF&RS Academy, Viyyur,

Thrissur.

Training

Instructional

Staff

Training

Administrative

support staff

Ministerial

staff

Total

1. Deputy Director (Training)1 ‐ ‐ 1

OMC‐KSJ Page260

2. Assistant Director (Trg) ( in the rank of Divisional

Officer)

1 ‐ ‐ 1

3. Senior Instructors

(in the rank of Assistant Divisional Officer)

5 ‐ ‐ 5

4. Instructors

(in the rank of Station Officers)

9 ‐ ‐ 9

5. Assistant instructors(in the rank of Asst. Station Officers)

10 ‐ ‐ 10

6. Senior Demonstrators(in the rank of Leading

Fireman)

13 ‐ ‐ 13

7. Junior Demonstrators ( in the rank of Fireman)

20 ‐ ‐ 20

8. Driver Mechanic 2 ‐ ‐ 2

9. Fireman Driver Cum Pump

Operator (FDCPO) Instructors

11 ‐ ‐ 11

10. Senior Swimming

Demonstrators (in the rank of Leading fireman)

3 ‐ ‐ 3

11. Junior Swimming Demonstrators

( in the rank of Fireman)

5 ‐ ‐ 5

12. Lab Assistant 1 ‐ ‐ 1

13. Station Officer (Store) ‐ 1 ‐ 1

14. Leading Fireman (Store) ‐ 1 ‐ 1

15. Fireman (Store) ‐ 2 ‐ 2

16. Fireman (Carpenter) ‐ 1 ‐ 1

17. Fireman (Plumber) ‐ 1 ‐ 1

OMC‐KSJ Page261

16.6.5The creation of 124new posts of the training instructors, training

administrative support staff and ministerial staff in the Kerala Fire and Rescue

Services Academy Viyyoor, Thrissur immediately is the first and

foremost requirement of the department for strengthening and

18. Fireman (Electrician) ‐ 1 ‐ 1

19. Fireman (Blacksmith) ‐ 1 ‐ 1

20. Fireman (Welding) ‐ 1 ‐ 1

21. Librarian ‐ 1 ‐ 1

22. Cook ‐ 9 ‐ 9

23. Water Carrier / Helper ‐ 7 ‐ 7

24. Sweeper ‐ 4 ‐ 4

25. Barber ‐ 2 ‐ 2

26. Dhobi ‐ 3 ‐ 3

27. Manager ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐

28. Junior Superintendent ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐

29. Head Accountant ‐ ‐ 1 1

30. Lower Division Clerk (LDC) ‐ ‐ 2 2

31. Confidential AssistantGr. 2

‐ ‐ 1 1

32. Lower Division Typist ‐ ‐ 1 1

33. Last Grade Servant /Office Attendant

‐ ‐ 2 2

34. Gardener ‐ ‐ 1 1

TOTAL 81 35 11 124

OMC‐KSJ Page262

enhancing its one and only training institution. It is actually the crying

need of the Kerala Fire & Rescue Services department.

16.6.6 The justification for the creation of new posts of the training

instructors, training administrative support staff and ministerial staff has

been given in the Annexures ‘D’, ‘E’ and ‘F’ respectively of this chapter.

16.7NEED FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE OF FUNDS FOR DEVELOPMENT OF KF&RS ACADEMY, VIYYUR,THRISSUR:

16.7.1It is therefore recommended that at least five crore rupees should be

sanctioned in the budget of 2014‐15 for the development of physical, mobility

(general purpose vehicles) and training infrastructures of the Fire & Rescue

Services Academy, Viyur, Thrissur. This will provide required fillip to the process of

modernisation and development of the Kerala Fire & Rescue Services academy,

Viyyur, Thrissur, which has been envisaged in this report. This is necessary to

salvage the fledgling effort of the department to establish a full‐fledged

training academy. Similarly; sufficient Budget Allocation may also be made to

the Kerala Fire and Rescue Services Academy Viyyoor, Thrissur in the budget of

2014‐15 and thereafter every year.

16.7.2 The development of physical, mobility and training infrastructures is a long

term activity. They cannot be completed in just one year for obvious reasons.

Therefore the remaining procurement of training fire fighting vehicles /

equipments and training infrastructures as well as development of physical

infrastructure as suggested above in this chapter should be taken up in the

financial year 2014‐15and completed in three years’ time period.

OMC‐KSJ Page263

16.8 At present the training allowance is sanctioned to Station officer (Rs.90/‐

per month) and Leading Fireman (Rs.80/‐ per month) posted in the Kerala Fire and

Rescue Services Academy Viyyoor, Thrissur only. This facility of training allowance

needs to be extended to all the officers and other personal posted in the Kerala

Fire and Rescue Services Academy Viyyoor, Thrissur. The Training allowance

should be sanctioned @ of Rs. 1500/‐ per month for the officers of and above the

rank of ASTOs and @ of Rs.1000/‐ for LF, DM, FDCPO, FM per month. This needs

to be ordered in the year 2013‐14 itself; so that officers and personnel of proven

track record can opt for posting in the academy.

16.9 This is also to be mentioned here that a modernisation/

development plan for the Kerala Fire & Rescue Services Academy, Viyyur,

Thrissur on similar lines was submitted to the Principal Secretary, Home

(F) Department, Govt. of Kerala from the office of Commandant General,

KF&RS department vide letter No.A1‐260/2013 dated 10‐01‐2013.

16.10 CREATION OF A SEARCH AND RESCUE (SAR) UNIT IN THE KF&RS ACADEMY, VIYYUR, THRISSUR:

16.10.1The search and rescue duties have increased for Kerala Fire and Rescue

Services department in recent years due to substantial increase in incident calls. It

is therefore imperative that the KF&RS personnel are exposed to the multi‐

dimensional nature of the search and rescue operations and should know about

the equipments required in search and rescue operations and should be able to

handle them dexterously. This cannot be achieved without proper training in

handling of search and rescue equipments. It is therefore recommended that

there should be a well‐equipped SAR unit in the KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur

for training purposes.

OMC‐KSJ Page264

16.10.2The SAR unit should be equipped with the following equipment required in

any search & rescue operation.

SAR UNIT EQUIPMENT LIST

1. a) Tirfor Maxpuller with operating lever 02 set

2. a) Bosch Rotary Hammer (Model‐ GBH2‐

26DRE) with gauge rod 02 Nos.

b) Bosch Rotary Hammer carrying box

(plastic) 02 Nos.

c) Drill bit for Bosch Rotary Hammer

Size‐12 mm‐ nos., 16mm‐2nos., 18mm‐2nos., 22mm‐2nos. & 25mm‐2nos.

10 Nos.

3. a) Bosch Chipping Hammer (Model‐GSH‐

11E) 02 Nos.

b) Bosch Chipping chisel 02 Nos.

c) Gel‐tube 02 Nos.

d) Bosch White synthetic napkin 02 Nos.

e) Bosch chipping Hammer carrying box

(plastic) 04 Nos.

4. a) Bosch Electrical Cut off saw (Model‐

GCO2000) with cutting wheel 06 Nos.

5. a) Bosch Electrical chain saw (Model‐

40BCE) with chain 05 Nos.

6. a) Rabour cutting Makita‐Make (Model‐

BGA402) 02 Nos.

b) Rabour cutting Makita Spare battery 02 Nos.

c) Rabour cutting Makita Battery charger 02 Nos.

d) Rabour cutting Makita Grinding wheel 01 No.

e) Rabour cutting Makita Cutting wheel 02 Nos.

OMC‐KSJ Page265

f) Rabour cutting Makita Carrying box

(plastic) 02 Nos.

g) Grinding cutting wheel fixing spanner 02 Nos.

7. a) Sharpex chain saw with carbide tipped

chain (Model‐667CT) –petrol operated 02 Set.

b) Spare chains (2 for each) 04 Nos.

c) Spanner‐Double end spanner‐ 10x11 02 Nos.

d) Plug spanner 02 Nos.

e) Allen keys 04 Nos.

f) Star allen key 02 Nos.

8. Petrol Hydraulic Power Unit Make HONDA 02 Nos.

9. Combi Tool CT 4120 C Make HOLMATRO 02 Nos.

10. Core Hose C05OU

(Hydraulic Hose pipe with Connecting unions)

02 Nos.

11. Air releasing valve 02 Nos.

12. Emission control system warranty 02 Nos.

13. International warranty information for

Honda general Purpose engines 02 Nos.

14. Tripod 01 No.

15. Shoring Equipments 01 Set.

16. Percussive Rescue Tool 03 Nos.

17. Bull Point‐ 14” long 03 Nos.

OMC‐KSJ Page266

18. 3” Wide chisel‐ 14” long 03 Nos.

19. 1” Wide chisel‐ 14” long 03 Nos.

20. Lock breaker claw 03 Nos.

21. Metal cutting claw 03 Nos.

22. P.R.T kit carrying pouch 03 Nos.

23. 1 Ton capacity chain pulley (CLIF MAKE) 01 No.



26. 2 Ton chain connector 04 Nos.

27. 1 Ton Forged Eye Hook 05 Nos.



30. Rope clamps 8 M.M 05 Nos.

31. Rope clamps 10 M.M 05 Nos.

32. Rope clamps 12M.M 05 Nos.

33. Pipe wrench 02 Nos.

34. Chain wrench 4” 02 Nos.

35. 20 Mtr. 8 M.M chain 01 No.

36. D‐Shackle 8.5 Ton 04 Nos.

OMC‐KSJ Page267

37. D‐Shackle 6.5 Ton 04 Nos.

38. D‐Shackle 5 Ton 04 Nos.

39. 4 Leg chain sling 2 mtr with shackle 01 No.

40. 15 Ton jack 01 No.

41. Cargo laching sling 01 No.

42. Trolley jack 3 Ton 01 No.

43. 10 MM Rod cutter 01 No.

OMC‐KSJ Page268

ANNEXURE‐‘A’

STATEMENT SHOWING THE ESTIMATED EXPENDITURE ON SALARIES FOR THE CREATION OF NEW POSTS OF DEPUTY DIRECTOR / ASSISTANT DIRECTOR / INSTRUCTORS/DEMONSTRATORS (TRAINING STAFF) IN KF&RS ACADEMY, VIYYUR, THRISSUR.

SL

No Designation

Scale of

pay

Basic

Pay

DA @

45%

Total

Emoluments

(per month)

New

Post

Required

Post

Existing

Total

Post

Expenditure

for one year

2 Deputy Director

(Training)

40640‐

57440 40640 18288 58928 1 0 1

707136

(58928x12)

3

Assistant

Director

(Training)

( in the rank of

Divisional

Officer)

24040‐

38840 24040 10818 34858 1 0 1

418296

(34858x12)

4

Senior

Instructors

(in the rank of

Assistant

Divisional

Officer)

18740‐

33680 18740 8433 27173 5 1 6

1630380

(27173x5x12)

OMC‐KSJ Page269

5 Instructors

(in the rank of

station officers)

16180‐

29180 16180 7281 23461 8 1 9

2252256

(23461x8x12)

6

Assistant instructors (in the rank of Assistant station officers)

14620‐

25280 14620 6579 21199 10 1 11

2543880

(21199x10x12)

7

Senior

demonstrators

(in the rank of

leading fireman)

13900‐

24040 13900 6255 20155 13 2 15

3144180

(20155x13x12)

8

Junior demonstrators ( in the rank of fireman)

10480‐

18300 10480 4716 15196 20 5 25

3647040

(15196x20x12)

9

Senior Swimming

Demonstrators

(in the rank of

Leading fireman)

13900‐

24040 13900 6255 20155 3 0 3

725580

(20155x3x12)

10 Junior Swimming

Demonstrators

( in the rank of

10480‐

18300 10480 4716 15196 5 0 5

911760

(15196x5x12)

OMC‐KSJ Page270

Fireman)

11 Driver Mechanic 13900‐

24040 13900 6255 20155 2 0 2

483720

(20155x2x12)

12

Fireman Drivers

cum Pump

Operator

(FDCPO)

instructors

10480‐

18300 10480 4716 15196 11 4 15

2005872

(15196x11x12)

13 Lab Assistant 16180‐

29180 16180 7281 23461 1 0 1

281532

(23461x12)

TOTAL EXPENDITURE PER ANNUM 18751632

OMC‐KSJ Page271

ANNEXURE ‐ 'B'

STATEMENT SHOWING THE ESTIMATED EXPENDITURE ON SALARIES FOR THE CREATION OF NEW

POST OF TRAINING ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT STAFF IN KF&RS ACADEMY, VIYYUR,THRISSUR.

SL No

Designation Scale of pay

Basic Pay

DA @ 45%

Total Emoluments (per month)

New Post Required

Post Existing

Total Post

Expenditure for one year

1 Librarian Gr IV 11620-20240

11620 5229 16849 1 0 1 202188 (16849 X 12)

2 Cook 8500-12310

8500 3825 12325 9 1 10 1331100 (12325 X 9 X 12)

3 Water Carrier/ helper

8500-13210

8500 3825 12325 7 1 8 1035300 (12325 X 7 X 12)

4 Sweeper /Cleaner8500-13210

8500 3825 12325 4 1 5 591600 (12325x4x12)

5 Barber 8500-13210

8500 3825 12325 2 0 2 295800 (12325x2x12)

6 Dhobi 8500-13210

8500 3825 12325 3 0 3 443700 (12325x3x12)

7 Carpenter (Fireman)

10480-18300

10480 4716 15196 1 0 1 182352 (15196x12)

8 Plumber (Fireman)

10480-18300

10480 4716 15196 1 0 1 182352 (15196x12)

OMC‐KSJ Page272

9 Electrician (Fireman)

10480-18300

10480 4716 15196 1 0 1 182352 (15196x12)

10 Fireman (Blacksmith)

10480-18300

10480 4716 15196 1 0 1 182352 (15196x12)

11 Fireman (Welding)

10480-18300

10480 4716 15196 1 0 1 182352 (15196x12)

12 Station Officer (Store)

16180-29180

16180 7281 23461 1 0 1 281532 (23461x12)

13 Leading Fireman (Store)

13900-24040

13900 6255 20155 1 0 1 241860 (20155x12)

14 Fireman (Store)

10480-18300

10480 4716 15196 2 0 2 364704 (15196x2x12)


OMC‐KSJ Page273

ANNEXURE ‐ 'C'

STATEMENT SHOWING THE ESTIMATED EXPENDITURE ON SALARIES FOR THE CREATION OF NEW POST OF MINISTERIAL STAFF IN KF&RS ACADEMY, VIYYUR, THRISSUR.

SL No

Designation Scale of pay Basic Pay

DA @ 45%

Total Emoluments (per month)

New Post Required

Post Existing

Total Post

Expenditure for One year

1 Head Accountant

14620-25280 14620 6579 21199 1 0 1 254388 (21199 X 12)

2 Lower Division Clerk

9940-16580 9940 4473 14413 3 0 3 345912 (14413 X 2 X 12)

3 Confidential Assistant Gr.2

10480-18300 10480 4716 15196 1 0 1 182352 (15196 X 12)

4 Lower Division Typist

9940-16580 9940 4473 14413 1 1 2 172956 (14413 X 12)

5 Last Grade Servant/Peon

8500-13210 8500 3825 12325 2 0 2 295800 (12325 X 2 X 12)

6 Gardner 8730-13540 8730 3928.5 12658.5 1 0 1 151902 (12658.5 X 12)


OMC‐KSJ Page274

ANNEXURE‐‘D’

JUSTIFICATION FOR THE CREATION OF NEW POSTS OF TRAINING

INSTRUCTIONAL STAFF IN KF&RS ACADEMY VIYYUR, THRISSUR.

1. Deputy Director (Training):

The training institutions are normally headed by a well experienced and the senior

level Officer of the department. The post of Deputy Director (Training) is highly

essential for the overall supervision of the Academy for imparting up to date and

advanced training in the science of Fire Prevention, Fire Extinction and Fire

Engineering and smooth administration of the academy. The Deputy Director

(Training) should be a person of varied experience in the field of science of Fire

Prevention/Fire Extinction / Fire Engineering and able leader to create/develop

appropriate administrative infrastructures and atmosphere for imparting advance

training and developing the academy into a centre of excellence in times to come.

The head of the academy therefore should be a senior professional of the

Department, with capacity to engage and evolve the appropriate training ethos

with his experience and vision for future. The academy will in due course of time

once fully developed shall conduct basic training of all entry level ranks including

the STOs and conduct the in‐service training of all ranks including officers. The

Kerala Fire &Rescue Services Viyyur Thrissur at present is in the developmental

stage of its growth. A lot of infrastructural developmental works are to be

visualized and executed apart from organizing the present level of training

activity. The head of the academy will also have to liaise with a number of senior

level officers of state and central govt. for various official purposes. He will also

have to liaise with heads of various training institutions outside the state. This

multifarious role can be discharged efficiently and effectively only if a senior level

officer in the rank of Deputy Director with of varied experience and vision is

posted at the helm of affairs of the academy. Therefore; Kerala Fire &Rescue

Services Viyyur Thrissur should be headed by an officer of the rank of Deputy

Director to supervise, monitor, guide and administer the training functions of the

department.

OMC‐KSJ Page275

2. Assistant Director (Training):

An officer of the rank of Divisional Officer will be posted as Assistant Director

(Training) in the academy. There is urgent need for separate examination wing in

the academy. This is necessary in view of the frequency of examinations at the

end of each basic and in‐service course. At present the work of setting of question

papers, detailing of invigilators, evaluation of answer books, conducting of

practical examination, Publishing results, etc is done under the specific orders of

the Commandant General, Kerala Fire &Rescue Services Headquarters,

Thiruvananthapuram. There is no earmarked staff for this work in the KF&RS Hqrs.

This duty shall be discharged by the academy once the new posts proposed are

sanctioned. The Assistant Director (Training) shall be in charge of this examination

wing in the Kerala Fire &Rescue Services Viyyur Thrissur. The examination work

will increase in future as more and more courses shall be conceived and

conducted in the academy. He will also look after various academy functions

under the overall supervision of the Deputy Director (Training). He will also be in

charge of in‐service training courses of ADOs and DOs once academy accredited

/affiliated with NFSC, Nagpur. His services will also be utilized by Deputy Director

(Training) for conducting other courses and other administrative works of the

academy.

3. Senior Instructors:

The senior instructors will be officers of the rank of Assistant Divisional Officer. They are the ones who have completed instructors Course from NFSC, Nagpur and qualified for taking theory and practical classes. Apart from taking classes their services will also be utilized by making them in charge of various basic and in‐service courses conducted in the academy. Senior most ADO posted in the academy will be put in charge of STO basic training course and in‐service courses once the Kerala Fire &Rescue Services Viyyur Thrissur is accredited /affiliated with NFSC, Nagpur.

4. Instructors:

The instructors will be officers of the rank of Station Officers. They will be taking

the theory and practical classes for the cutting edge level entrants and will

supervise training activities, indoor as well as outdoor.

OMC‐KSJ Page276

5. Assistant Instructors:

The assistant instructors will be in the rank of Assistant Station Officers. They will

support the training activities both indoors and outdoors in various basic and in‐

service courses.

6. Senior Demonstrators:

The senior demonstrators will be in the rank of Leading Fireman. Their duty is to

demonstrate training activities to the trainees with the help of Junior

Demonstrators. Trainees are divided in to several groups for imparting practical

training on operational activities. In fact they are the backbone of practical

training for basic and in‐service courses.

7. Junior Demonstrators:

The junior demonstrators are in the in the rank of Fireman. They support the

senior demonstrators in demonstration of operational Drills. Trainees are divided

in to several groups for imparting practical training on operational activities. They

are absolutely essential category for any training activity.

8. Driver Mechanic:

Fire &Rescue Services Academy is having various types of appliances and

equipments, which requires adequate attention for keeping them in good

condition. Their services are also utilized for teaching operations of various

appliances and equipments to the trainees.

9. Fireman Driver cum Pump Operator (FDCPO) Instructors:

They are required for conducting basic training of Fireman Driver cum Pump

Operator (FDCPO) and eligibility course for Driver Mechanic and in‐service course

for Driver Mechanic. Nobody can conduct these courses. They are specialist and

highly essential otherwise our training activity will come to halt.

OMC‐KSJ Page277

10. Senior Swimming Demonstrators:

The senior swimming demonstrators will be drawn from the rank of Leading

Fireman They will be responsible for teaching swimming to trainees.

11. Junior Swimming Demonstrators:

The junior swimming demonstrators will be drawn from the rank of Fireman. They

will be responsible for teaching swimming to trainees.

12. Lab Assistant:

One lab assistant is required who will be in charge of the lab to be established in

the academy in due course of time. He will work as instructor to give training in

identification and handling of chemicals and industrial fire. His basic qualification

shall be minimum M.Sc in Chemistry with some work experience. He will be

initially recruired in the pay scale /grade of STO with provision of promotion to the

scale of ADO and even DO. The service conditions and rules for the post of lab

assistant will be worked out in consultation with the KPSC.

OMC‐KSJ Page278

ANNEXURE‐‘E’

JUSTIFICATION FOR THE CREATION OF NEW POSTS OF TRAINING

ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT STAFF IN KF&RS ACADEMY VIYYUR, THRISSUR.

1. Librarian:

No training academy can be visualized without a well organised library and no

library can be thought of without a librarian. Hence; the requirement of a

librarian.

2. Cooks:

No training academy can be run without the services of cooks. They are required

to cook food for trainees. There is only one cook in the academy as of now. There

is requirement of at least 9 more cooks in the academy for its efficient running.

3. Water Carrier/helper:

At present there is only one water carrier available in the academy. Seven more

water carriers/helpers are needed for efficient running of the mess of the

trainees. The job the water carriers/helpers are to help the cooks in cleaning the

cooking utensils and draw water from well and other water sources.

4. Sweepers:

The sweepers are must to maintain the cleanliness of the Academy. There is

requirement of 4 more posts of sweeper for the academy.

5. Barbers:

To maintain smartness among fresh recruits and in service candidates the posts of

a barber is highly essential.

6. Dhobis:

Dhobis are required to wash the official linens and iron the uniforms of the

trainees in the academy.

OMC‐KSJ Page279

7. Fireman Carpenter:

The carpenter is required for minor repairs of wooden fittings in the buildings and

furniture. In fact in the academy the major work of carpenter will be to make

training aids and wooden structures for various training activities. No carpenter is

sanctioned for the Academy.

8. Fireman Plumber:

The plumber is required for ensuring urgent repairs of water connections for both

drinking purpose and for water connection to the swimming pool under

construction. Proper water supply to academy is essential for training purposes

also.

9. Fireman Electrician:

An electrician is absolutely essential for any office establishment especially the

training institution of Fire &Rescue Services. Maintenance of Electrical supply to

Swimming pool, class rooms, office building and hostel etc. are major issues which

have to be addressed, for which the post electrician is essential. He is also

required for maintenance of rescue electrical equipments.

10. Fireman Blacksmith:

He will be making the training aids and will ensure the repairs of Small gears

available with Academy.

11. Fireman Welder:

His services will be utilized for various training functions and welding of assorted

equipments available with Academy.

12. Station Officer (Store):

He will be the custodian of all the store items for training and other purposes

maintained at Fire & Rescue Services Academy. He will also ensure timely repairs

of training stores.

OMC‐KSJ Page280

13. Leading Fireman (Store): He will assist the STO (Store) in maintenance and

proper upkeep of the academy stores.

14. Fireman (Store): They will be looking after the store maintained at Fire &

Rescue Services Academy.

OMC‐KSJ Page281

ANNEXURE‐‘F’

JUSTIFICATION FOR THE CREATION OF NEW POSTS OF MINISTERIAL STAFF IN

KF&RS ACADEMY VIYYUR, THRISSUR.

1. Manager:

Any training institution needs corresponding posts of ministerial staff for proper functioning of the academy. A new post of Manager is essential as the existing post is shifted from KF&RS Headquarters to the Fire & Rescue Service Academy vide order No. G.O. (M.S) No.131/2009/Home Dtd 17.8.2009. This post will have to be restored to Kerala Fire & Rescue Services Headquarters Tvpm as the work there is also suffering due to shifting of this senior level post to KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur. The post of manager is required to supervise and monitor the financial and administrative matters of the academy. The manager will also function as the DDO the academy. The manager is the head of the ministerial staff of the academy.

2. Junior Superintendent:

A new post of Junior Superintendent is essential as the existing post is shifted from KF&RS Headquarters to the Fire & Rescue Service Academy vide order No. G.O. (M.S) No.131/2009/Home Dtd 17.8.2009. This post will have to be restored to Kerala Fire & Rescue Services Headquarters Tvpm as the work there is also suffering due to shifting of this middle level supervisory post to KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur. The post of Junior Superintendent is essential to supervise the works of UDC/LDC.

3. Head Accountant:

The post of Head Accountant is essential for ensuring proper cash transactions and disbursement of the salary of academy staff and trainees. He has to ensure timely payment of recurring and non‐recurring charges. He will be the custodian of the cash book of the academy.

4. Lower Division Clerk (LDC):

The existing one post of LDC is shifted from KF&RS Headquarters to the Fire &

Rescue Service Academy vide order No. G.O. (M.S) No.131/2009/Home dated

17.8.2009. This post will have to be restored to Kerala Fire & Rescue Services

Headquarters Tvpm as the work there is also suffering due to shifting of this post

OMC‐KSJ Page282

to KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur. Therefore three new posts of LDCs are

essential to cater to the needs of the academy. The LDCs are the first level of

office staff to deal with various matters of administration and financial matters. In

fact they are the first level of creators and movers of the file on all matters of

academy functioning.

5. Confidential Assistant Gr.2:

One post of confidential assistant (Grade 2) is recommended for the head of the

academy i.e. Director (Training).

6. Lower Division Typist:

There is only one sanctioned post of LDT in the academy. That is not sufficient for

the work load of the academy. Therefore one new post of LDT is recommended.

7. Last Grade Servant/ Peon:

At present there is no peon / Last grade Govt. Servant in the Academy. Two posts

are therefore necessary for the proper functioning of the academy office.

8. Gardener:

A gardener is necessary in any training institutions to develop the campus area

aesthetically and maintain it on regular basis.

OMC‐KSJ Page283

CHAPTER: 17

‘MODERNISATION OF ORGANISATIONAL

STRUCTURE’

OMC‐KSJ Page284

17. MODERNISATION OF ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE OF KF&RS

DEPARTMENT:

17.1.1 It needs to be understood here very clearly that the modernisation of

KF&RS department is not going to be achieved only by purchasing few modern

equipment’s and opening of fire stations. The modernisation of KF&RS

department can be ensured only by modernising the organisational structure of

the department; which involves creation of district offices with adequate staff,

creation of adequate number of middle and senior level supervisory posts,

creation of additional supervisory levels like DOs at district level and zonal /

regional fire officers at zonal / regional level, creation of more posts of ADOs in

the districts, creation of various posts in the KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur and

creation of additional posts at the KF&RS Headquarters etc, apart from opening

more fire stations and procurement of basic and modern equipment’s. It is a

complete package and not a piecemeal accretion of the some technical assets. The

organisational re‐structuring on the lines suggested above is therefore the key to

the modernisation and progress of the KF&RS department. Technology without

corresponding human resource strength will take us nowhere.

OMC‐KSJ Page285

17.1.2The present KF&RS organisational structure is given below:

Legends: Sr. Supdt‐ Senior Superintendent DO‐ Divisional Officer ADO‐ Assistant Divisional Officer TVPM‐ Thiruvananthapuram, KTM‐Kottayam PTA‐Pathanamthitta EKM‐ Ernakulam, PKD‐Palakkad, MPM‐Malapuram, KKD‐ Kozhikkode, KF&RS‐ Kerala Fire & Rescue Services

Commandant General

DO KKD

Admn. OfficerSr. Supdt

Director‐Technical

Jr. Supdt

Head

Accountant

Sections: C1, D1, D2 F1, H1, R1 Sections:

A1, A2, A3 A4, B1, B2, E1

DOTVPM

DO

KTMDO

EKM

DO

PKD

Director‐ Administration

ADOs‐ Tvpm, Kollam

Fire Stations: Tvpm (11) Kollam (9)

ADOs‐Kottayam

Alappuzha

PTA

Fire Stations: Kottayam (7) Alappuzha (5) PTA (5)

ADOs

‐ EKM,

Idukki

Fire Stations: EKM (15) Idukki (4)

ADOs‐Palakkad Thrissur MPM

Fire Stations: Palakkad (7) Thrissur (8) MPM (5)

ADOs‐

KKD,

Wayanad,

Kannur,

Kasargod

Fire Stations:

KKD (8)

Wayanad (3)

Kannur (9)

Kasaragod (5)

KF&RS, ACADEMY,

Viyyur

G1 Section

OMC‐KSJ Page286

17.1.3 The proposed organisational strutures will have the following components.

i. The Commandant General as head of the Kerala Fire &Rescue Services

department. This post is sanctioned and alredy in existence.

ii. Two Director level officers (i.e. Director – Administration & Director ‐

Operations) in KF&RS headquarters. Both these posts are sanctioned and in

existence. The post of Director (Technical) will be re‐named as Director

(Operations).

iii. NEED FOR ZONAL / REGIONAL OFFICES IN KF&RS DEPARTMENT:

There are only two levels of supervisory posts intervening the head of the

department (i.e. Commandant General,KF&RS Department) and lowest

operational unit (i.e.fire station). There is need for a senior level supervisory

officer to supervise and guide the work of Divisional officers and Assistant

Divisional Officers. A number of crucial functions of the department like

inspections, preparedness of fire stations and close supervision of DOs and

ADOs etc. are neglected due to this missing link in the chain of supervisory

hierarchy of the department.

iv. Therefore two senior levels supervisory postsof calledNorth and South

Zonal / Regional Fire &Rescue Services Officers; is being proposed to be

newly created for improving the supervision of field units and enhancing the

efficiency of the department. The North, Zonal / Regional Fire & Rescue

Services Officer shall be headquartered at Kozhikode and South Zonal /

Regional Fire Officer will be headquartered at Ernakulam. The Zonal /

Regional Fire & Rescue Services Officers will be of the rank of Deputy

Director in the pay scale of 40640‐57440.

v. The jurisdiction of North zone /region fire &rescue services officer will

extend to the districts of Kasargod, Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode,

Malappuram, Palakkad and Thrissur and the jurisdiction of South zone

/region fire & rescue services officer will extend to the districts of

Ernakulam, Idukki, Kottayam, Alappuzha, Kollam, Pathanamthitta and

Thiruvananthapuram.

OMC‐KSJ Page287

vi. The primary duty of zonal /regional fire&rescue services officers will be

operational, fire prevention / education, training, inspections, disciplinary

and any other duty assigned by the Commandant General to enhance the

efficiency of the KF&RS department. They will ensure the fire fighting

preparedness of the KF&RS department personnel. They will function as link

/ bridge between the field units and the Commandant General, KF&RS

department.

vii. The North and South; zonal / regional fire &rescue services offices will also

have the component of ministerial staff in the scale of one Junior

Superintendent ‐1, Confidential Assistant‐1, Clerks‐2, Typists‐1, Office

attendant‐1 each. The zonal / regional fire &rescue services officers will not

have any financial powers and provisioning commitments. They will have

the disciplinary and controlling powers over the district fire & rescue

services officers, assistant district fire & rescue services officers and the fire

stations under their jurisdictions.

viii. NEED FOR DISTRICT OFFICES IN KF&RS DEPARTMENT:

ix. The glaring lacunae in the organisational structure of KF&RS department is

the absence of district office and a district level officer to head the KF&RS

department at district level. At present the Assistant Divisional Officers are

functioning as the district officers by default and not by a well‐conceived

administrative policy of the Government with adequate sanctioned office

staff and infrastructure. The present Assistant Divisional Office staffs are

cobbled up by attaching the clerks and executive staff from the fire stations

on working arrangements. There are no sanctioned staffs to the Assistant

Divisional Office. His is the only sanctioned post in his office. The Assistant

Divisional Office has not been established as district office either by Govt.

order or declared by any standing order of the Commandant General KF&RS

department. It has assumed the role of district office by some weird

assumptions such as there is only one post of ADO in one district and ADO is

the drawing and disbursing officer for all the fire station staff in the district.

The district organisational set up with adequate sanctioned staff is the sine

qua non for effective administrative and operational efficiency. Therefore it

OMC‐KSJ Page288

is strongly recommended that a district office with adequate staff strength

should be established in KF&RS department in each revenue district

headquarters of districts of Kerala. This is absolutely must for the smooth

functioning and operational efficiency of the department. It is also to be

mentioned here that the absence of district office is causing lot of

heartburns in the department and proving to be a serious drag factor for

the progress of the organisation.

x. It is to be mentioned that in accordance with the recommendations of the

8th Pay Revision Commission the Govt. issued the orders regarding

redesignating the posts of Divisional Officers, and Assistant Divisional

Officer in the Fire and Rescue Services Department as District Fire and

Rescue Service Officer and Deputy Fire and Rescue Service Officer

respectively vide G.O. (P) NO. 145/06/Fin. Dated 25‐03‐2006. But this

redesignating order was reversed / modified vide G.O.(MS) No.

403/06(10)/FIN. 6‐10‐2006 on the basis of Commandant General, Fire and

Rescue Services Department letter No. A3/3566/2006 dated 29‐03‐2006

and status quo ante maintained. The point to be understood here is that the

8th Pay Revision Commission report had recommended the redesignating

the the posts of Divisional Officers, and Assistant Divisional Officers in the

Fire and Rescue Services Department as District Fire and Rescue Service

Officer and Deputy Fire and Rescue Service Officer respectively. The letter

No. A3/3566/2006 dated 29‐03‐2006 of Commandant General, Fire and

Rescue Services Department has proved to be counterproductive for the

progress of the department.

xi. It is therefore recommended that a full‐fledged‘District Fire & Rescue

ServicesOffice’ should be created in all the 14 district headquarters of

Kerala. All the districts /district fire & rescue services offices will be headed

by Divisional Officer rank officers designated as District Fire & Rescue

Services Officers.

xii. The Divisional Officers presently sanctiopned / posted at

Thiruvananthapuram, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Palakkad and Kozhikkode will

be the head /in charge of District fire & rescue services offices proposed in

OMC‐KSJ Page289

these districts. They will be designated as District Fire & Rescue Services

Officers of Thiruvananthapuram, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Palakkad and

Kozhikkode districts.

xiii. The Divisional Officers will also be incharge of the proposed district fire &

rescue services office in the remaining 9 districts of Kerala. Therefore nine

new posts in the rank of Divisional Officers designated as District Fire &

Rescue Services Officers will have to be created for heading the districts /

district fire & rescue services office at Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Idukki,

Alappuzha, Thrissur, Malappuram, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod.

xiv. All the 14 Assistant Divisional Officers presently posted in the districts and

who were hither‐to functioning as district officers albeit without any Govt.

sanction / order: will be now be re‐designated as Assistant District Fire &

Rescue Services Officers. This means there will one ‘District Fire & Rescue

Services Officer’ and at least one ‘Assistant District Fire & Rescue Services

Officer’ in every district of Kerala in KF&RS department.

xv. The districts of Thiruvananthapuram (11 fire stations), Kollam (9 fire stations), Ernakulam(15 fire stations), Thrissur (8 fire stations), Kozhikkode (8 fire stations)and Kannur(9 fire stations) should have in each district at least three posts of Assistant District Fire & Rescue Services Officers in the

rank of Assistant Divisional Officers including the one already sanctioned

because of more number of existing fire stations and future requirement of

fire stations in these districts.

xvi. The three Assistant District Fire & Rescue Services Officers in

Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kozhikkode and Kannur districts will be designated as Assistant District Fire & Rescue Services Officer (Administration & DDO), Assistant District Fire & Rescue

Services Officer (Operation) and Assistant District Fire & Rescue Services

Officer (Fire Prevention and Education Wing).

xvii. The districts of Pathanamthitta (5 fire stations), Alappuzha (5 fire stations), Kasaragod (5 fire stations), Malappuram (5 fire stations) Kottayam (7 fire stations) and Palakkad (7 fire stations), should have in each district at least

OMC‐KSJ Page290

two posts of Assistant District Fire & Rescue Services Officer in the rank of

Assistant Divisional Officers including the one already sanctioned keeping in

view the futue requirement of fire stations in these districts.

xviii. The two Assistant District Fire & Rescue Services Officers in the

Pathanamthitta,Alappuzha, Kasaragod,Malappuram,Kottayam andPalakkad districts will be designated as Assistant District Fire & Rescue Services Officer (Administration, DDO & Provisioning) and Assistant District

Fire & Rescue Services Officer (Operations & Fire Prevention Wing).

xix. The districts of Idukki and Wayanad should have only one post of Assistant

District Fire & Rescue Services Officer in the rank of Assistant Divisional

Officers and that post is already sanctioned.

xx. The one Assistant District Fire & Rescue Services Officer in Idukki and

Wayanad districts will be DDO and assist the District Fire & Rescue Services

Officer in all matters of administration, operations and fire prevention

works.

17.1.4 The summary of new posts of District Fire & Rescue Services Officers in the

grade of Divisional Officers (7) and Assistant District Fire & Rescue Services

Officers in the grade of Assistant Divisional Officers (10) to be created in the

districts as part of organisational re‐structuring is as follows.

Sl.

No. District Fire Office

District Fire & Rescue

Services Officers in the

grade of Divisional

Officer.

Assistant District Fire

& Rescue Services

Officers in the grade of

Assistant Divisional

Officer.

existingNew

post Total existing

New

post Total

1. Thiruvananthapur

am 1 Nil 1 1 2

3

2. Kollam Nill 1 1 1 2 3

OMC‐KSJ Page291

17.1.5 The proposed district fire & rescue services offices should also have

required component of ministerial staff for smooth functioning of the district fire

& rescue services office. According to the assessment of the workload of

proposed district fire & rescue services office; the following posts of Manager,

Senior Superintendent, Junior Superintendent, Clerks, Typists, and Office

Attendant for 14 district fire & rescue services office is also worked out.

3. Pathanamthitta Nil 1 1 1 1 2

4. Kottayam 1 Nil 1 1 1 2

5. Alappuzha Nil 1 1 1 1 2

6. Ernakulam 1 Nil 1 1 2 3

7. Idukki Nil 1 1 1 ‐ 1

8. Thrissur Nil 1 1 1 2 3

9. Palakkad 1 Nil 1 1 1 2

10. Malappuram Nil 1 1 1 1 2

11. Kozhikkode 1 Nil 1 1 2 3

12. Wayanad Nil 1 1 1 ‐ 1

13. Kannur Nil 1 1 1 2 3

14. Kasaragod Nil 1 1 1 1 2

Total 5 9 14 14 18 32

OMC‐KSJ Page292

Sl.

No.

District Fire Office Manager

Senior

Superinte

ndent

Junior

Superinten

dent

Clerks Typists Office

Attendant Existing

New

post

Total

Existing

New

post

Total

Existing

New

post

Total

Existing

New

post

Total

Existing

New

post

Total

Existing

New

post

Total

1

Thiruvananthapuram

Nil 1 1 1

Nil 1 1

Nil 1 6

Nil 6 2

Nil 2 2*

Nil 2

2

Kollam

Nil 1 1

Nil 1 1

Nil 1 1

Nil 6 6

Nil 2 2

Nil 1 1

3

Pathanam

thitta

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil 1 1

Nil 1 1

Nil 6 6

Nil 2 2

Nil 1 1

4

Kottayam

Nil

Nil

Nil 1

Nil 1

Nil 1 1 4 2 6

Nil 2 2 1

Nil 1

5

Alappuzha

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil 1 1

Nil 1 1

Nil 6 6

Nil 2 2

Nil 1 1

OMC‐KSJ Page293

6

Ernakulam

Nil 1 1 1

Nil 1 1

Nil 1 6

Nil 6 2

Nil 2 2*

Nil 2

7

Idukki

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil 1 1

Nil 4 4

Nil 1 1

Nil 1 1

8

Thrissur

Nil 1 1

Nil 1 1

Nil 1 1

Nil 6 6

Nil 2 2

Nil 1 1

9

Palakkad

Nil

Nil

Nil 1

Nil 1

Nil 1 1 3 3 6

Nil 2 2 1 Nil 1

10

Malappuram

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil 1 1

Nil 1 1

Nil 6 6

Nil 2 2

Nil 1 1

11

Kozhikkode

Nil 1 1 1

Nil 1 1

Nil 1 6

Nil 6 2

Nil 2 2*

Nil 2

12

Wayanad

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil 1 1

Nil 4 4

Nil 1 1

Nil 1 1

13

Kannur

Nil 1 1

Nil 1 1

Nil 1 1

Nil 6 6

Nil 2 2

Nil 1 1

14

Kasaragod

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil 1 1

Nil 1 1

Nil 6 6

Nil 2 2

Nil 1 1

OMC‐KSJ Page294

* The 2 posts shown are: one post of peon and one post of Night Watchman.

17.1.6 Therefore following is the summary of the new posts (executive &

ministerial) to be created for the establishment of district fire & rescue services

office in all the 14 revenue districts of Kerala and two Zonal Fre & Rescue Services

Officers.

I. Two posts of Zonal / Regional Fire & Rescue Services Officers in the grade of Deputy Director.

II. Nine posts of District Fire & Rescue Services Officers in the grade of Divisional Officers.

III. Eighteen Posts of Assistant District Fire & Rescue Services Officers in the grade of Assistant Divisional Officers.

IV. Six posts of Manager in thedistrict fire & rescue services offices at Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Ernakulum, Thrissur, Kozhikode and Kannur.

V. Seven posts Senior Superintendent in the district fire & rescue services office at Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Thrissur, Mallapuram, Kannur and Kasargod.

VI. Eleven posts of Junior Superintendentsin the district fire & rescue

services offices at Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki,

Alappuzha, Thrissur, Palakkad, Mallapuram, Kannur, Wayanad and

Kasargod. In addition two posts of Junior Superintendents in the

offices of two zonal / regional fire & rescue Services offices. Total 13

new posts of Junior Superintendents.

VII. Fifty nine posts of clerks in the proposed zonal / regional fire & rescue Services offices and district fire & rescue services offices.

VIII. Twenty two posts of typists in the proposed zonal / regional fire & rescue services offices and district fire & rescue services office.

Total Nil 6 6 5 7 12 3 11 14 25 55 80 6 20 26 8 9 17

OMC‐KSJ Page295

IX. 11 posts of office attendants in the proposed zonal / regional fire & rescue services offices and district fire & rescue services office.

X. Two posts of confidential assistants in the proposed two zonal / regional fire & rescue services offices.

17.1.7The responsibility of conducting the fire investigation; whenever such contigency arises will be that of the Assistant District & Rescue Service

Officers posted in the District & Rescue Service Offices.

17.1.8 THE STATION OFFICERS TO BE DESIGNATED AS PAY DRAWING &

DISBURSING OFFICER:

In the present system the ADO is the Drawing & Disbursing officer (DDO) in

respect of all the Fire & Rescue personnel working in the various Fire & Rescue

Stations of the district. The bills in respect to all the Fire & Rescue Stations are

presented by the ADO in the different authorized treasuries of the each Fire &

Rescue Station of the district but the money in cash is received by the concerned

STOs on behalf of ADO and distributed among the Fire & Rescue Station staff. The

STOs are therefore neither Drawing nor Disbursing Officers as of now even though

each Fire & Rescue Station is authorized / attached to one neighboring treasury of

the district. Since every fire station has an authorized treasury where all the bills

of the station are to be presented and money drawn; it is administratively prudent

and convenient to designate the Station Officer (STO) of Fire & Rescue Station as

the Drawing & Disbursing officer (DDO) in respect of all the Fire & Rescue

personnel of the Fire & Rescue Station. There is already one clerk cum typist cum

computer operators posted in each Fire & Rescue Station of the state for

executing these duties.

There won’t be any post creation on this account. But the above suggestion

should be implemented only if the proposed district fire & rescue services offices

along with the required ministerial staff are sanctioned. In such eventuality the

clerks sanctioned to the fire & rescue stations but presently attached to Assistant

Divisional Officers offices functioning in the district headquarters fire &rescue

stations premises shall return to their respective fire & rescue stations.

OMC‐KSJ Page296

17.1.9 (a)THE PROPOSED KF&RS ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE AT KF &RS HEAD QUARTERS &

KF&RS ACADEMY:

1 2 3

COMMANDANT GENERAL

Director‐Administration Deputy Director KF&RS Academy‐

Establishment wing

(AO, JS & Sections) Accounts Wing

(Accounts Officer

& sections)

Provisioning Wing

(DO, ADO, SS, STO, LF,

FDCPO & sections)

Communication Wing

(ADO, STO, LF, FDCPO, &

sections)

General Wing

(Tapal section, Fair Copy

section, Records etc. JS &

Sections)

Director‐ Operations

Fire Prevention

Wing (DO, ADO,

STO, LF, FDCPO, HA

& Sections)

Assistant Director

(Training) , Instructors in

the rank of ADOs, STOs,

LFs, DMs, FMs, FDCPOs,

Various category of

training Administrative

support staff,

&Ministerial staffs.

Technical Wing

(R&D SECTION)

(DO, ADO, JS, DM &

sections)

OMC‐KSJ Page297

7.1.9 (b)THE PROPOSED KF&RS ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE OF OPERATIONAL FIELD UNITS:

2

1 3

COMMANDANT GENERAL

Director ‐ Operations

North Zone/ Region

F&RS Officer South zone/ Region

F&RSOfficer

Deputy Director KF&RS Academy‐Viyyur

DF&RSO‐ KSGD

DF&RSO‐KNRDFRSO‐ WND

DF&RSO‐

PKD DF&RSO‐

TSR

DF&RSO‐MLPRM

DF&RSO‐KKD

F&RS (9)

ADF&RSO‐(2)

F&RS (5)

ADF&RSO‐(1)ADF&RSO‐(3)

ADF&RSO‐(2)

F&RS (3)

F&RS (7)

ADF&RSO‐(3)

ADF&RSO‐(3)

F&RS (8)

F&RS (8)

ADF&RSO‐(2)

F&RS (5)

DF&RSO‐EKM

DF&RSO‐IDK

DF&RSO‐KTM

DF&RSO‐ALP

DF&RSO‐PTA

DF&RSO‐TVPM DF&RSO‐KLM

ADF&RSO(3)

F&RS (15)

ADF& RSO (1)

F&RS (4)

ADF&RSO(2)

F&RS (7) ADF&RSO(2)

F&RS (5)

ADF&RSO(3)

F&RS (9)

ADF&RSO (3)

F&RS (11) ADF&RSO (2)

F&RS (5)

Director‐Administration

OMC‐KSJ Page298

Legends to diagrams in preceding two pages: DF&RSO‐ District Fire & Rescue Services Office/ Officer, ADF&SRO‐ Assistant District Fire & Rescue Services Office/ Officer, F&RS‐ Fire & Rescue Station, North Zone/ Region F&RS Officer‐ North Zone / Region Fire & Rescue Services Officer, South Zone/ Region F&RS Officer‐ South Zone / Region Fire & Rescue Services Officer, KSGD – Kasaragod, KNR‐ Kannur, KKD‐Kozhikkode, WND‐ Wayanad, PKD‐ Palakkad, MLPRM‐Malappuram, TSR‐Thrissur, IDK‐Idukki, EKM‐ Ernakulam, KTM‐ Kottayam, ALP‐ Alappuzha, KLM‐ Kollam, PTA‐ Pathanamthitta, TVPM‐ Thiruvananthapuram, DO‐ Divisional Officer, ADO‐ Asst. Divisional Officer, STO‐ Station Offier, LF‐ Leading Fireman, DM‐ Driver Mechanic, FDCPO‐ Fireman Driver cum Pump Operator, FM‐ Fireman, AO‐ Administrative Officer, SS‐ Senior Superintendent, JS‐ Junior Superintendent.

It is to be clarified here that the above organisational structure is suggested keeping in view the existing organisational structure. One could have recommended totally different structure but that would have caused confusion and demanded different nomenaclatures of ranks and recruitment system. The recommended organisational structure would provide for the long felt demand of KF&RS officers and personnel that there should be a ‘District Fire &Rescue Services Offices’in the districts with the required ministerial staff and under a district officer designated as ‘District Fire &Rescue Services Officer’ in the grade of existing divisional officer. The Assistant Divisional Officers; who were functioning as district officers so far will now become the part of the proposed ‘District Fire & Rescue Services Offices’ and would work directly under the ‘District Fire & Rescue Services Officers’as assistant district fire & rescue services officers with well defined job. The constitution of ‘District Fire & Rescue Services Offices’ will also open up the promotional avenues for the ADOs and STOs; which was another issue of frustrations and demoralisation among the ADOs and STOs.

The creation of two posts of zonal / regional fire & rescue services officers will enhance the supervision of middle lecel supervisory officers such as district fire & rescue services officers and assistant district fire & rescue services officers and fire stations. This will also provide promotional avenues at senior level to the officers of the rank of Divisional officers in the department. The re‐structuring of KF&RS headquarters as recommended in chapter‐8 will push forward the modernisation drive of the KF&RS department in right direction. It is therefore; strongly recommended that the above suggested re‐organisation of KF&RS department should be accepted and implemented in to‐to; if the Govt. wants the KF&RS department to deliver on its mandated role and future challenges.

OMC‐KSJ Page299

CHAPTER: 18

‘Summary of the total number of the

new posts (executive and ministerial) to

be created in the KF&RS department as

part of modernisation of the KF&RS

department’

OMC‐KSJ Page300

18. SUMMARY OF THE TOTAL NUMBER OF THE NEW POSTS

(EXECUTIVE AND MINISTERIAL) TO BE CREATED IN THE KF&RS

DEPARTMENT AS PART OF MODERNISATION OF THE KF&RS

DEPARTMENT:

18.1.1 The gap/ shortage of manpower at fire station level has been analysed and

discussed in chapter number 7.2 of this report. The new posts to be created in 101

operational fire stations of KF&RS department according to new yardstick fixed by

this commission come to4216 ( See para 7.2.16 of this report).

18.1.2 The re‐structuring of KF&RS Headquarters has been discussed and analysed

in chapter number 8 of this report. The total number of new posts to be created in

the KF&RS headquarters comes to 35(see para 8.5 of this report).

18.1.3The gap/ shortage of manpower in the KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur has

been analysed in detail in chapter 16 of this report and total new posts to be

created in the category of training instructional staff,training administrative

support staff, and ministerial staff come to 124(see para 16.6.4 of this report).

18.1.4The requirement of new posts (executive & ministerial) to be created for

the establishment of district fire & rescue offices in all the 14 revenue districts of

Kerala and two Zonal / regional Fire & Rescue Services Offices is discussed in

chapter 17 comes to 149( see para 17.1.5 above).

18.1.5 The following is total summary of new posts of executive,

ministerial,training instructors, and training administrative support staff to be

created in the KF&RS Department as part of complete re‐structuring of

organisation of KF&RS department.

OMC‐KSJ Page301

EXECUTIVE STAFF:

Sl.

No. Rank

Number of

new posts

to be

created

The office / unit; where the new posts

are to be created Remarks

1 Deputy

Director 3

Two (2) posts as Zonal Fire & Rescue

Services Officers.

One (1) postas Deputy Director

(Training) in KF&RS Academy, Viyyur,

Thrissur.

2 Divisional

Officer 13

Three(3) posts as in charge Provisioning wing, Technical wing and Fire Prevention wing in KF&RS, Head Quarters, Thiruvananthapuram. One (1) post as Assistant Director (Trg.)in KF&RS Academy, Viyyur. Nine(9) posts as District Fire &

Rescue Services Officers in charge of

districts.

3

Assistant

Divisional

Officer

28

Five(5) posts in Provisioning wing (2),

Technical wing (1) and Fire Prevention

wing (1) & Communication wing (1) in

KF&RS,

Headquarters,Thiruvananthapuram

Five (5) posts as Senior Instructors in

KF&RS Academy, Viyyur,Thrissur.

Eighteen (18) postsof Assistant District

Fire & Rescue Services Officers in the

districts / district fire & rescue services

office.

OMC‐KSJ Page302

4 Station

Officer 82

Four (4) posts of Station Officers in

Provisioning wing (2), Fire Prevention

wing (1) & Communication wing (1) in

KF&RS, Head Quarters,

Thiruvananthapuram.

Ten (9 as Instructors & 1 as STO store)

in KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur.

Sixty Eight (68) posts in fire &rescue

stations of the KF&RS department.

STO (MT) 04 At KF&RS units Kollam, Pathanamthitta,Thrissur and Kannur.

5

Assistant

Station

Officers

202

Ten (10) as Assistant Instructors in KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur. One Hundred Ninety Two (192) in the Fire & Rescue Stations of the KF&RS Department.

6 Leading

Fireman 413

Four (4) posts in Provisioning wing (2),

Fire Prevention wing (1) &

Communication wing (1) in KF&RS,

Head Quarters, Thiruvananthapuram.

Seventeen (17); 13 as Senior

Demonstrators, 3 as Senior Swimming

Demonstrators and 1 as LF (Store) at

KF&RS Academy, Viyyur,Thrissur.

Three Hundred Ninety Two (392)

posts of Leading Fireman in the Fire

and Rescue Stations in the KF&RS

Department

7 Fireman 2704

Two Thousand Six Hundred Seventy

Two (2672) posts in the Fire & Rescue

Stations in the KF & RS Department.

OMC‐KSJ Page303

Thirty Two (32)postsat KF&RS

Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur as Junior

Demonstrators (20), Junior swimming

Demonstrators(5), FM‐Store(2),FM –

Carpenter(1), FM – Plumber(1), FM –

Electrician(1), FM ‐ Blacksmith, (1)

FM‐ Welding(1).

8 Driver

Mechanic 166

Two (2) posts in the Technical wing of

KF & RS Head Quarters

One Hundred Sixty Two (162)posts in

the Fire & Rescue Stations of KF & RS

Department.

Two (2) posts in KF&RS Academy,

Viyyur, Thrissur.

9

Fireman

Driver cum

Pump

Operator

(FDCPO)

661

Five (5) posts in Provisioning wing (2),

Fire Prevention wing (2) &

Communication wing (1) in KF&RS,

Head Quarters, Thiruvananthapuram.

Six Hundred Forty Five (645)posts in

the Fire & Rescue Stations of KF & RS

Department.

Eleven (11)postsas instructors in

KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, Thrissur.

TOTAL 4276

OMC‐KSJ Page304

MINISTERIAL STAFF:

Sl.

No. Designation

Number of

new posts to

be created

The office / unit; where the new

posts are to be created Remarks

1 Manager 6

Six (6) posts in the proposed

district fire & rescue services

office of Thiruvananthapuram,

Kollam, Ernakulam, Thrissur,

Kozhikode&Kannur.

2 Accounts

Officer

One

(1 ‐ in the

grade of

Manager

post)

One (1) post in the KF&RS, Head

Quarters, Thiruvananthapuram.

3

Senior

Superintend

ent

7

Seven (7)posts in the proposed


office of Kollam, Pathanamthitta,

Alappuzha, Thrissur,

Malappuram, Kannur & Kassargod

4

Junior

Superintend

ent

15

Two (2)posts in the KF&RS,

HeadQuarters,

Thiruvananthapuram.

Eleven (11) posts in the

proposeddistrict fire & rescue

services office of Kollam,

Pathanamthitta, Kottayam,

Idukki, Alappuzha, Thrissur,

Palakkad, Malappuram, Kannur,

Wayanad & Kassargod.

OMC‐KSJ Page305

Two (2) posts in the two

proposed zonal / regional fire &

rescue services offices.

5 Head

Accountant 1

One (1)post in the KF&RS

Academy, Viyyu, Thrissur.

6

Confidential

Assistant Gr.

2

3

One (1) post in the KF&RS





7

Lower

Division

Clerk (LDC)

67

Six (6) posts in the KF&RS,

Head Quarters,

Thiruvananthapuram

Fifty Five (55)posts in the

proposed district fire & rescue

services office in the KF&RS

department.

Two (2)posts in the KF&RS


Four (4) posts in the two

proposed zonal / regional fire

&rescue services offices.

8

Lower

Division

Typist

23

One (1)post in the KF&RS


Twenty (20) posts in the

proposed district fire & rescue services

office in the KF&RS department.



OMC‐KSJ Page306


9

Clerks / Typists / Computer Operators

71 Seventy One (71) posts in the existing fire & rescue stations of the KF&RS department.

10 Lab

Assistant 1

One (1) post in the KF&RS

Academy, Viyyur.

11 Librarian 1 One (1) post in the KF&RS


12. Record

Keeper 1

One (1) post in the KF&RS, Head

Quarters, Thiruvananthapuram

13.

Last Grade

Servant/

Office

Attendent

15

Two (2) posts in the KF&RS, Head

Quarters, Thiruvananthapuram

Two (2) posts in the KF&RS


Nine (9) posts in the proposed


office.




TOTAL 212

OMC‐KSJ Page307

Training Administrative Support Staff:

1. Cook 9 Nine (9) posts in the KF&RS


Remark

2.

Water

Carrier /

Helper

7 Seven (7) posts in the KF&RS

Academy, Viyyur Thrissur.

3. Sweeper 18

Fourteen (14) posts in the

existing fire & rescue stations,

Four (4) posts in the KF&RS


4. Barber 2 Two (2) posts in the KF&RS


5. Dhobi 3 Three (3) posts in the KF&RS


6. Gardener 1 One (1) post in the KF&RS


Total 40

OMC‐KSJ Page308

CHAPTER‐19

‘PROTOCOL FOR FIRE &RESCUE

OPERATIONS’

OMC‐KSJ Page309

19.1 PROTOCOL FOR FIRE &RESCUE OPERATIONS:

19.1.1A fire and rescue service is the first responder in many of the incidents

ranging from small one to large scale incident. In the present system a station

officer or an assistant station officer is the commanding officer of the turn outs

from all the fire stations in Kerala. He can manage the incident, crews and the

public if it is a small one.As the seriousness and complexity of the incident

increases more manpower, equipment and appliances are needed; which requires

proper coordination, leadership and good resource control mechanism. Therefore

an officer of experiemce and command capacity must be present in such

incidents. He must have the full authority over the fire & rescue services resources

on the incident ground. He must delegate responsibility and devolve authority for

the operations of the fire & rescue services to the junior officers. The chain of

command should be clearly defined.This will help to manage the incident safely,

effectively and with minimum risk. Therefore a protocol must be set in place

regarding the rescue operation indicating who is the commanding officer and

what are the appliances and equipment to be deployed as the first responding

unit for the various incidents.

19.1.2Setting up of the protocol must also follow a systematic approach with a

clearly defined framework specifying the roles and responsibilities of the various

rank and file of the department for the better command, control and

management of the incident .This can be achieved by adopting an incident

command system. The major components of the incident command system are

described below.

19.2INCIDENT COMMANDER.

He is the senior most among the officers present at an incident spot. This may

range from Station officer to the Commandant General or Director of fire & rescue

service depending upon the seriousness of the incident.

19.2.1Duties and responsibilities of the incident commander:

He must have the full authority over the fire & rescue services resources on

the incident ground.

OMC‐KSJ Page310

He is responsible for the overall management of the incident and will focus

on command and control, deployment of resources, tactical planning and

the health and safety of the crews.

He must nominate an individual as command support to act as a contact

point.

He must assess the incident and should allocate areas of responsibility to

officers as necessary.

He must evaluate the situation task and persons at risk and should select a

safe system of work. If the benefits outweigh the risk he must proceed with

the task. If the risk outweighs the benefit do not proceed with the task but

consider viable alternatives.

He should keep the crew as a team and should ensure that everyone is

working strictly under his order. He should take a position from where he

can watch the proceedings. He should also ensure that everyone is wearing

proper PPE.

19.2.2 APPLICATION OF CORDONS:

Cordons may be employed as an effective method of controlling the resources and

maintaining safety. There are two types: Inner cordon and outer cordon.

INNER CORDON

This will be around the immediate scene of operation. This is the hazardous area

and a high level of safety should be followed in this area. Only men who carry out

rescue operation will be allowed to enter in this area. This area will be under the

control of the fire & rescue services.

OUTER CORDON

This is the area outside the inner cordon which is used by the fire & rescue

services and other services for the support activities. Entry of public should be

restricted in this area.

OMC‐KSJ Page311

19.2.3SPAN OF CONTROL:

The area of involvement of an officer should be limited to enable the individual to

deal with the situation effectively since it is difficult to give attention to so many

aspects of an incident. Span of control means the number of lines of direct

communication with the working crew which should be maintained by the officer.

The span of control may range from 2‐3 to 6‐7 .At small incidents where the area

of operation is easily manageable and there are no sectors the incident

commander may oversee all aspects of the incidents directly.

19.2.4 SECTOR COMMANDER:

If the incident is too large the incident commander must sectorize each area and

delegate officers so that he could have better control of the incident .The sector

can be physical area of the incident or an area of support function. E.g. front and

back of the building. , water sector, foam sector etc. The sector commander will

report directly to the incident commander or to the operations commanders if

one is established. In the present set up officers ranging from Leading Fireman to

Station Officers can be assigned the job of sector commander. Sectorisation is

adopted only if it is required.

19.2.5 OPERATIONS COMMANDER:

If the incident develops in size and complexity more sectors will be e needed and

the incident commander’s span of control will be at its maximum and it is difficult

for the incident commander to manage the incident. In such case the

responsibility of overlooking different sectors can be assigned to an officer of

suitable delegative power. He may be called the operations commander. His job is

to coordinate the sector and to exercise the incident commanders’ authority in

that sphere. This is needed only when the incident grows big and the number of

sectors becomes high. Assistant Divisional Officer and Divisional Officer can be

assigned this job depending on the gravity of the incident.

19.2.6 COMMAND SUPPORT:

This is to assist the incident commander in the management of the incident. The

incident commander should nominate a junior officer or a fire fighter as command

OMC‐KSJ Page312

support who will operate from the designated contact point. An appliance not

involved in pumping or an officer’s car may be suitable for this purpose. The

contact point is identified by using flashing beacons. Adequate number of staff

should be included in the command support.

19.2.7 RESPOSIBILITIES OF COMMAND SUPPORT:

To act as a first contact point for all the appliances and officers and to

maintain a physical record of resources in attendance of the incident.

To assist the incident commander in liaison with other agencies.

To direct attending appliance to an operational location as instructed by the

incident commander.

To record the sector identification and officers duties as the assignments

are made.

Arrange appliance positioning and parking to minimize congestion in

consultation with the police.

Arrange additional special equipment as required by the incident

commander.

Arrange the relief of appliances and personnel

To record and keep all the data as relayed by the incident commander.

To act as a communication link between the incident commander and the

fire brigade control room.

19.2.8 TACTICAL MODE:

This will help the incident commander to manage the incident effectively without

compromising the health and safety of the personnel. There are three tactical

modes.

OMC‐KSJ Page313

OFFENSIVE MODE

This can be applied to a sector or an entire incident. Here firefighting and rescue

operation is carried out inside the building or hazardous area. This is the normal

mode applied by the fire & rescue services. The examples are: fire fighting in

house fires, Industrial fires, effect rescues etc.

DEFENSIVE MODE

This mode may apply to the sector or to the entire incident. This is usually applied

where the operations is being dealt with internally with the objective of carrying

out search and rescue or fighting the fire before it involves the whole building or

threatens its stability. This is generally employed for external operations and must

be applied when committing fire fighters internally would constitute an

unnecessary risk to life. The examples are; fire in a building that is displaying signs

of collapse, rescue from a well showing signs of collapse or lack of oxygen.

TRANSITIONAL MODE

This mode is applicable only to the entire incident. Here a combination of both

offensive and defensive modes is adopted within the different sectors of the same

incident. E.g. A building on fire is fought externally with sectors in defensive

mode.But there is a portion of the building that can be saved safely by using an

offensive mode by fighting the fire inside that portion of the building. In this case

one sector is in defensive mode and one sector is in offensive mode and the

incident would be in the transitional mode.

A defensive approach is being utilized only as an interim measure until further

resources arrive which will enable the offensive mode to be established. The

tactical mode applied should be stated and communicated to all working crews.

The incident commander should inform the sector commander about which mode

he adopted and the sector commander should then implement the change

effectively and ensure that personnel under his command are aware of the

prevailing tactical mode. If a shifting of the mode is necessary in the sector, the

sector commander may change the mode accordingly and inform the incident

commander about it.

OMC‐KSJ Page314

19.2.9 TRANSFER OF COMMAND:

It is the process of briefing an individual of higher experience or authority so that

person can assume command of an incident. This is needed when a new officer

takes over the command over from a junior officer. The information necessary for

the complete transfer of command are the following

What has happened

Incident action plan

Current units/resources operating and other status and location

Civilians injured or trapped

Fire fighters injured or trapped

Actions that have been accomplished

Ability to control the incident with the available resources

19.2.10 MUTUAL AID:

During the course of rescue operation, fire department may need to interact with

many other department, people and organization.

Depending upon the nature of the incident, there must be mutual assistance

among the various department and organization which will help in resolving the

incident. Therefore a mutual aid or assistance agreement incorporating pre‐

arranged written agreement of the type and amount of assistance one

department will provide to another in the event of a large scale fire and disaster

should be set in place. The following department and organization must be

included in this agreement.

Police

Health service

Ambulance service

Revenue department

Public works department

Water authority

Forest department

OMC‐KSJ Page315

Kerala State Electricity Board

Railways

Airport

Navy

Local self‐government department

Corporation /Municipality

Nongovernmental organization

Irrigation

Water transport

Institute of Land and Disaster Management.

19.3 THE FOLLOWING SOP IS SUGGESTED FOR ATTENDING THE FIRE

CALLS:

SI. No.

Type of Fire

Call

Vehicles, Appliances

and equipments for

Turn Out

In charge

1 Fire in oil

refinery

Water tender‐3

Emergency tender‐1

Crash tender‐2

Water bouser‐2

Ambulance‐4

Quickresponse

vehicle‐2

Float pump‐2

Portable pump‐2

Trailer pump‐2

Director,

DO,

ADO&

STO

2

Fire in major

industrial

Establishments

like port

Airport, ship

yards, FACT,

Water tender‐3


Crash tender‐2

Water bouser‐2

Ambulance‐4

Quick response

Director,

DO,

ADO, &

STO

OMC‐KSJ Page316

ISRO,LPG

bottling plants

vehicle‐2

Float pump‐2

Portable pump‐2

Trailer pump‐2

3 Aircraft Fire

Water tender‐2


Crash tender‐2

Water bouser‐2

Ambulance‐4

Quick response

vehicle‐2

Float pump‐2

Portable pump‐2

Trailer pump‐2

Director,

DO,

ADO, &

STO

4

Gas/Chemical/

Petroleum fire

in truck

Water tender‐3


Crash tender‐2

Water bouser‐2

Ambulance‐2

Quick response

vehicle‐2

Float pump‐2

Portable pump‐2

Trailer pump‐2

Director,

DO,

ADO, &

STO

5

Gas/Chemical/

Petroleum fire

in Wagon

Water tender‐2


Crash tender‐2

Water bouser‐2

Ambulance‐2

Quick response

vehicle‐2

Float pump‐2

Portable pump‐2

Director,

DO,

ADO, &

STO

OMC‐KSJ Page317

Trailer pump‐2

6 Fire in wagon

Water tender‐2


Crash tender‐1

Water bouser‐1

Ambulance‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐1

Portable pump‐1

DO,

ADO,&

STO

7

Gas/Petroleum

/Chemical fire

In factories

Water tender‐4


Crash tender‐1

Water bouser‐1

Ambulance‐2

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐2

Portable pump‐2

DO,

ADO,&

STO

8

Fire in high

rise

commercial

building

Water tender‐2


Water bouser‐1

Ambulance‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Turn table ladder‐1

Float pump‐1

Portable pump‐1

Water mist‐1

DO,

ADO,&

STO

9

Fire in

hazardous

storage

Water tender‐2


Ambulance‐1

DO,

ADO,&

STO

OMC‐KSJ Page318

building Water bouser‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐1

Portable pump‐1

10 Fire in power

house

Industrial Water

tender‐1

Water tender‐1


Ambulance‐1

Water bouser‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐1

Portable pump‐1

Water mist‐2

DO,

ADO,&

STO

11 Fire in tank

farm

Water tender‐2


Ambulance‐1

Water bouser‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐1

Portable pump‐1

DO,

ADO,&

STO

12

Fire in gas

storage area

Water tender‐2


Ambulance‐1

Water bouser‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐1

Portable pump‐1

DO,

ADO,&

STO

13 Fire in Water tender‐2 Director,D

OMC‐KSJ Page319

Legislative

Assembly

Building


Ambulance‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐1

Water mist‐1

O,

ADO,&

STO

14 Fire in Govt

Secretariat

Water tender‐2


Ambulance‐2

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐1

Portable pump‐1

Director,D

O,

ADO,&

STO

15 Fire in Raj

Bhavan

Water tender‐2


Ambulance‐2

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐1

Portable pump‐1

Water mist‐1

Director,D

O,

ADO, &

STO

16 Ship fire

Water tender‐4


Crash tender‐2

Ambulance‐2

Water bouser‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐2

Float pump‐1

Portable pump‐1

Water mist‐1

DO,

ADO,&

STO

17

Fire in

Water tender‐2


DO,

OMC‐KSJ Page320

commercial

streets

Ambulance‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐1

Portable pump‐1

Water mist‐1

ADO,&

STO

18 Fire in high

courts

Water tender‐2


Ambulance‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐1

Portable pump‐1

Water mist‐1

DO,

ADO,&

STO

19 Fire in

industries

Water tender‐2


Ambulance‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐1

Portable pump‐1

Water mist‐1

Industrial water

tender‐1

Water brouser‐1

ADO&

STO

20 Fire in hospital

building

Water tender‐2


Ambulance‐2

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐1

Portable pump‐1

Water mist‐1

DO, ADO,

&

STO

OMC‐KSJ Page321

21

Fire in

ministers/

opposition

leader/

speaker/chief

VIP Bungalow

Water tender‐2Emergency tender‐1

Ambulance‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐1

Water mist‐1

DO, ADO,

&

STO

23

Fire in high rise

residential

building


Ambulance‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐2

Turn table ladder /

Hydraulic Platform ‐1

DO, ADO,

&

STO

24 Fire in storage

building


Ambulance‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐2

Water mist‐1

Water brouser‐1

ADO&

STO

25

Fire in

important

worship

centres

Water tender‐2 Emergency tender‐1

Ambulance‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐2

Water mist‐1

ADO&

STO

OMC‐KSJ Page322

26

Fire in

educational

building


Ambulance‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐2

ADO&

STO

27

Fire in

electrical

substation


Ambulance‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐2

Water mist‐2

ADO&

STO

28 Fire in

transformers

Water tender‐1Crash tender‐1 Ambulance‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Water mist‐2

ADO&

STO

29 Fire in sewage

line


Ambulance‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐2

ADO&

STO

30

Fire in petrol

pump/gas

pump

Water tender‐2Crash tender‐1 Emergency tender‐1

Ambulance‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐2

DO, ADO,

&

STO

OMC‐KSJ Page323

Water mist‐1

31

Fire in

exhibition

stall/

Carnival place


Ambulance‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐2

Water mist‐1

DO, ADO,

&

STO

32 Fire in huts

Water tender‐2Ambulance‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐2

Water bouser‐1

Water mist‐1

STO

33 Forest fire


Quick response

vehicle‐2

Float pump‐3

Water bouser‐1

ADO&

STO

34

Country boat /

Tourist/ other

boat fire


Quick response

vehicle‐2

Float pump‐3

ADO&

STO

35

Fire in

explosive

manufacturing

unit/

storage unit

Water tender‐3


Ambulance‐4

Quick response

vehicle‐2

Float pump‐3

DO, ADO,

&

STO

OMC‐KSJ Page324

Water bouser‐1

36

Fire in

fireworks

storage and

Display area

Water tender‐3


Ambulance‐4

Quick response

vehicle‐2

Float pump‐3

Water bouser‐1

DO, ADO,

&

STO

37 Fire in truck or

vehicle

Water tender‐2

Ambulance‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐1

STO

38

Fires in judges

bungalow

Water tender‐2

Ambulance‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐1

Water mist‐1

ADO&

STO

39 Fire in

collectorate

Water tender‐2

Ambulance‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐1

Water mist‐1

ADO&

STO

40

Fire in

important govt

offices

And court

complex

Water tender‐2

Ambulance‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐1

Water mist‐1

ADO&

STO

41 Fire in dwelling

houses

Water tender‐2

Ambulance‐1

OMC‐KSJ Page325

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐1

STO

42

Fire in single

storied

commercial

building

Water tender‐2

Ambulance‐1

Quick response

vehicle‐1

Float pump‐1

Water mist‐1

STO

43 Fire in

dumping yard

Water tender‐2

Float pump‐1

Water bouser‐2

STO

44 Grass fire Water tender‐2

Float pump‐1 STO

45 Fire on trees Water tender‐2

Float pump‐1 STO

46

Any other fire

not mentioned

above

Water tender‐2

Float pump‐1 STO

19.4 THE FOLLOWING SOP IS SUGGESTED FOR ATTENDING THE

INCIDENT CALLS:

SI.No.

Type of Incident

Call

Vehicles, Appliances and

equipments for Turn OutIn charge

1 Landslide

Emergency Tender‐1

Recovery vehicle‐1

Ambulance‐2

Quick response

vehicle‐2

JCB‐2

Director,

DO,

ADO, &

STO

OMC‐KSJ Page326

2 Rail Accidents



Ambulance‐2

Quick response

vehicle‐2

JCB‐2

Water Tender‐2

Director,

DO,

ADO, &

STO

3 Aircraft

Accidents



Ambulance‐2

Quick response

vehicle‐2

Water Tender‐3

Water bouser‐2

Crash tender‐1

Director,

DO,

ADO, &

STO

4 Tour and other

Boat Accidents


Ambulance‐2

Quick response

vehicle‐2

Speed boat‐2

Scuba‐4

Dingi‐2

DO,

ADO, &

STO

5 Tsunami


Ambulance‐4

Recovery Vechilce‐2

JCB‐2

Quick response

vehicle‐2

Speed boat‐2

Scuba‐4

Dingi‐2

Fire Tender‐2

Director,

DO,

ADO, &

STO

OMC‐KSJ Page327

Trailer pump‐3

Portable pump‐4

Float pump‐4

6 Storm/Cyclone


Ambulance‐4


JCB‐2

Quick response

vehicle‐2

Speed boat‐2

Scuba‐4

Dingi‐2

Fire Tender‐2

Trailer pump‐3

Portable pump‐4

Float pump‐4

Director,

DO,

ADO, &

STO

7 Earth Quake


Ambulance‐4


JCB‐2

Quick response

vehicle‐2

Fire Tender‐2

Float pump‐2

Director,

DO,

ADO, &

STO

8

Building Collapse‐

Multi storied

Buildings


Ambulance‐4


JCB‐2

Quick response

vehicle‐2

Fire Tender‐2

DO,

ADO, &

STO

OMC‐KSJ Page328

Float pump‐2

9 Radio Active

incidents


Ambulance‐4

Quick response

vehicle‐2

Fire Tender‐2

Float pump‐2

Director,

DO,

ADO, &

STO

10 Missile Accidents


Ambulance‐4

Quick response

vehicle‐2

Fire Tender‐2

Float pump‐2

Director,

DO,

ADO, &

STO

11

Gas leakage from

wagon truck

Factory and other

installations


Ambulance‐4

Quick response

vehicle‐2

Fire Tender‐2

Float pump‐2

Water bouser‐2

Portable pump‐4

DO,

ADO, &

STO

12

Chemical,Acid,

petroleumspillage

from wagon

truck,factory and

other

installations


Ambulance‐4

Quick response

vehicle‐2

Fire Tender‐2

Float pump‐2

Water bouser‐2

Portable pump‐4

Crash tender‐1

DO,

ADO, &

STO

13 Hydrological

disasters


Ambulance‐4

Quick response

DO,

ADO, &

OMC‐KSJ Page329

vehicle‐2

Float pump‐2

Portable pump‐4

STO

14 Bomb Blast


Ambulance‐4

Quick response

vehicle‐2

Fire Tender‐2

Float pump‐2

Water bouser‐2

Portable pump‐4

Crash tender‐1

Director,

DO,

ADO&

STO

15 Stampede


Ambulance‐4

Quick response

vehicle‐2

Director,

DO,

ADO, &

STO

16 Meteorological

disasters


Ambulance‐4

Quick response

vehicle‐2

Fire Tender‐2

Float pump‐2

DO,

ADO, &

STO

17 Incident in high

Court


Ambulance‐2

DO,

ADO, &

STO

18 Country Boat

Accidents


Ambulance‐2

Quick response

vehicle‐2

Speed boat‐1

Scuba‐2

Dingi‐1

DO,

ADO, &

STO

19 Rescue from high Emergency Tender‐2 DO,

OMC‐KSJ Page330

rise buildings

And other heights

Ambulance‐2

Quick response

vehicle‐2

Fire Tender‐1

TTL / Hydraulic Platform‐

1

ADO, &

STO

20 Heavy rain/flood


Ambulance‐2

Quick response

vehicle‐2

float pump‐2

speed boat‐2

dingi‐2

DO,

ADO, &

STO

21 Hooch tragedy


Ambulance‐4

Inflatable halite lamp‐2

DO,

ADO, &

STO

22 Health disasters


Ambulance‐4


DO,

ADO, &

STO

23 Waterline

bursting


Ambulance‐2


Trailor pump‐2

Float pump‐2

Portable pump‐2

DO,

ADO, &

STO

24 Rescue from

sewage


Ambulance‐2

Quick response

vehicle‐2

float pump‐2

Inflatable Towerlight‐2

ADO, &

STO

25 Incident in Emergency tender‐1 ADO, &

OMC‐KSJ Page331

important

worship centres

Water tender‐1

Ambulance‐2

Inflatable Tower light ‐1

STO

26 Building collapse

(single storied)


Water tender‐1

Ambulance‐2


ADO, &

STO

27 Incidents in

judges bungalow


Water tender‐1

Ambulance‐1


ADO, &

STO

28 Incidents in

collectorate


Water tender‐1

Ambulance‐2


ADO, &

STO

29

Incidents in

important Govt

offices,

Court complex

and secretariat


Water tender‐1

Ambulance‐2


ADO, &

STO

30 Drowning in well


Ambulance‐2


STO

31 Drowning in

open water


Ambulance‐2


STO

32 Lift accidents


Ambulance‐1


STO

33 Rescue from tree


Ambulance‐1


STO

OMC‐KSJ Page332

34 Rescue from

tower


Ambulance‐1


STO

35

Rescue of those

who trapped in

rail and other

structures


Ambulance‐2


STO

36 Rescue from wild

animals


Ambulance‐1


STO

37 Falling of trees


Ambulance‐1


STO

38 Rescue of slum


Ambulance‐1


STO

39 Vehicle accidents


Ambulance‐1


STO

40

Other disasters

not mentioned /

anywhere


Ambulance‐1


STO

The response to any fire / incident call depends on the intensity and gravity of the

situation. The above mentioned scale of vehicles/equipments and the level of

officer(s) are minimum first response. The further augmentation of the human

and technical resourses to meet the requirement of the situation would depend

upon the assessment of the senior most officer designated for attending the fire /

rescue the call.

OMC‐KSJ Page333

CHAPTER‐ 20

‘SUGGESTIONS RECEIVED FROM THE

KF&RS DEPARTMENT ASSOCIATIONS /

INDIVIDUAL OFFICERS AND OTHER

OTHER ISSUESFELT RELEVANT BY THE

COMMISSION’

OMC‐KSJ Page334

20.SUGGESTIONS RECEIVED FROM THE KF&RS DEPARTMENT

ASSOCIATIONS / INDIVIDUAL OFFICERS AND OTHER ISSUES FELT

RELEVANT BY THE COMMISSION:

All the service associations /organisations and officers / personnel of KF&RS

department were requested to offer their suggestions and remarks on the terms

of reference issued by the Government for the functioning of the one man

commission for the modernization of Kerala Fire &Rescue Services department.

The response was quite lukewarm from the senior officers and very few ADOs and

STOs individually responded. The Kerala Fire & rescue servicess Association and

Kerala Fire & rescue services Drivers & Mechanics Association had submitted their

remarks / opinion. Some of the suggestions received from them and other issues

felt relevant by the Commission are given below.

I. The post of fireman and Fireman Driver cum Pump Operator

(FDCPO) should be merged and combined. The initial recruitment

should be conducted for a common category of Fireman Driver cum

Pump Operator (FDCPO). It is felt that this will be a force multiplier

and the shortage of drivers will be permanently banished from the

department as all the personnel joining at the entry level post of fire

man and driver would be with qualifications prescribed for drivers

and fireman. This will also ensure that all the fire men joining the

department will be trained driver and the department will be flush

with trained drivers to operate pumps and do the firefighting as well.

In fact; some of states are already moving in to this direction for

obvious advantages flowing from such initiative. The Standing Fire

Advisory Council has also recommended to this effect.

II. The swimming should be made compulsory qualification for

appointment / selection to the post of Fireman, FDCPO, and Station

Officers.

III. The Firemen and Station Officers should be given training in driving,

swimming and computer operations during their basic as well as in‐

service courses even if they know these skills.

OMC‐KSJ Page335

IV. All promotion cadre courses must include office management and

computer practical as one of the subjects.

V. The basic training course of fireman consists of two legs; the first leg

of six months in the academy and second leg of six months practical

training in the fire & rescue stations. It is felt that the practical

training conducted at fire &rescue stations should be scrapped as it

serves no specific purpose and the firemen trainees should be posted

to fire & stations as fire man under probation instead. But at the

same time there is growing demand that the firemen should be given

training in the driving, swimming and computers. Therefore it is

suggested that the after completing the first leg of basic training of

six months the fire men recruits should be retained in the academy

itself for another period of three months for undergoing training in

driving, swimming and computers. The firemen trainees will

therefore undergo nine months of basic training: the first leg of six

months basic training as being imparted now and second leg of

three months training in driving, swimming and computers even if

they already possess these skills. They will have to pass in these skills

during their basic training. Both the legs of training will be conducted

in the academy itself. After successful completion of nine months

training in the academy they will be posted to direct to the fire &

rescue stations on probation. The system of practical training of six

months in the fire &rescue stations will thus be abolished.

VI. The period of basic training course for the Fireman Driver cum Pump

Operator (FDCPO) is four months. They don’t have the practical

training in fire & rescue stations. They are posted in the fire & rescue

stations after the four months basic training. Their basic training

course period should be extended to six months. The FDCPO trainees

will therefore undergo six months of basic training: the first leg of

four months basic training as being imparted now and second leg of

two months training in swimming and computers even if they

already possess these skills.

VII. The qualification for the direct recruitment to the post of Driver

Mechanic should be ITI diploma in mechanical engineering and

OMC‐KSJ Page336

should have current motor vehicle driving license in heavy goods

/passenger vehicles, medium goods / passenger vehicles, and light

goods / passenger vehicles. The existing qualification of three years

practical experience in any Govt. approved workshop should be done

away with.

VIII. The FDCPO should have current motor vehicle driving license for

heavy goods /passenger vehicles, medium goods / passenger vehicles

and light goods / passenger vehicles.

IX. The minimum educational qualification for fireman, FDCPO and

direct Driver Mechanic should be Plus Two pass and equivalent

examination instead of SSLC.

X. The KF&RS department personnel have got only one working dress

for operational duty as well as other normal official duties. The

government should therefore constitute a committee for deciding for

two types of uniforms: one for the operational duties and other for

the normal official duties. One thing that should be done immediately

is to scrap Khaki colour uniform for the fire &rescue service

personnel. They are mostly mistaken as police officers. It should be

understood that the uniform provides the needed unique identity to

its members. The Khaki colour is historically identified with the police

in the sub‐continent. The army is identified with olive green colour.

Similarly; the fire & rescue department personnel should have their

own unique uniform colour. It should be distinct and different from

police and army. The suggested committee should go into these

issues and come forward with the recommendation that will assign a

vibrant and unique uniform colour & design to KF&RS department

personnel for operational duties, other normal duties, and

ceremonial occasions.

XI. The operational duty dress should be light, flexible and fire

retardant; with fitments / pouches to carry PPEs and communication

equipments etc. The rank badges in the operational dress should be

made of cloth / canvas and never of metals.

XII. The government of Kerala in 2009 ordered the changes in the badges

of ranks of officers (ASTO and above) of KF&RS department and

OMC‐KSJ Page337

adopted the police badgesof ranks on the assumption that it will

provide them necessary authority in crowd management during

firefighting and rescue operations etc. This has not only undermined

the organizational autonomy of KF&RS department but has made

them poor copy of police officers in public without any added

advantage. The stars and emblems are generally not the badges of

ranks of fire & rescue services officers. They should therefore revert

back to the badges of ranks in existence prior to changes brought in

2009. The earlier badges of ranks with impeller etc are the standard

badges of ranks for the fire & rescue services officers all over the

country. This is also the opinion of a good number of ADOs and DOs

in the department.

XIII. The existing tarred parade ground in the KF&RS Academy, Viyyur

should be removed and concrete or roller pressed mud parade

ground should be rebuilt.

XIV. The Class rooms should be equipped with audio visuals equipments

at Fire & rescue servicess Academy, Viyyur.

XV. The training in SCUBA and emergency first aid should be

incorporated in the basic and in‐service training syllabus.

XVI. The KF&RS Academy should issue certificates to the KF&RS personnel

after their successful completion of training courses in the academy.

XVII. There is great deal of repetition in the course syllabus of FM basic

course, LF promotion course and ASTO promotion course. The LF

promotion course should be devoted to intensive study of chemicals

& hazards, disaster management techniques, practical handling of

specialized hydraulic equipments, exposure to new firefighting

techniques / systems and practical training in rescuing from wells /

cliffs / hill accidents. The hands on training methodology should be

adopted for the LF promotion course. The present period of two

months for the LF promotion course can be extended to three

months duration to get extensive hands on experience in above

mentioned subjects.

XVIII. The ASTO promotion course should also focus on intensive study of

chemicals & hazards, disaster management techniques, practical

OMC‐KSJ Page338

handling of specialized hydraulic equipments, exposure to new

firefighting techniques / systems and office management. The ASTO

promotion course should be blend of class room and practical

exposure modules. The present duration of four months of ASTO

promotion course can be reduced to three months period.

XIX. The Commandant General, KF&RS department should constitute a

board of officers to study afresh the course content of LF promotion

course and ASTO promotion course and suggest changes in the

training curriculum as suggested above.

XX. Another important aspect is to take the trainees of LF and ASTO

promotion courses on a study tour to neighboring state fire stations /

training institutions, industry visits inside the state and study tour to

tourist places of importance etc. To start with visit to Kochi refinery

should be made compulsory with immediate effect to study about

the firefighting arrangements in an oil refinery and their training

ground. This can be done easily.

XXI. It is noted that to become eligible for promotion to LF; the passing of

LF promotion Course is mandatory. Similarly; to become eligible for

promotion to ASTO; the passing of ASTO promotion Course is

mandatory. But there is no such stipulation for those getting

promotion rom ASTO to STO. It is therefore recommended that the

promotion from ASTO to STO should be given to only those ASTOs

who undergo Sub officer’s course either at NFSC Nagpur or any other

regional fire training center sponsored by NFSC, Nagpur. That course

can even be organized at KF&RS Academy, Viyyur, if not possible to

organize either at NFSC, Nagpur or any other rebional training center.

This will infuse some spirit of competitiveness and weed out the

totally incompetent ASTO from becoming STO.

XXII. The bond amount to be deposited by the fireman trainees at the time

of joining the service /training needs to be substantially enhanced to

prevent desertion and leaving of service by them.

XXIII. The Fireman category personnel within the eligible age group limit

may be given at least 20 percent weightage for direct recruitment to

the Station Officer post. That means 20 percent of vacancy of direct

OMC‐KSJ Page339

STO should be reserved for the serving firemen provided they are

within the eligible age prescribed for direct STO post and meet other

prescribed qualifications.

XXIV. One torch should be Issued to each vehicles for facilitating night

duties.

XXV. Build family quarters in every fire & rescue stations so that personnel

are available for duty in emergency.

XXVI. Install power steering & automatic transmission system in all

firefighting vehicles.

XXVII. A full‐fledged underwater rescue operation team may be formed in

every district and at every water tourism spots.

XXVIII. The Servicing, maintenance, and repairs of vehicles should be

undertaken by the department directly, not at govt. approved

workshops.

XXIX. The Motorola GM 338 wireless system and Motorola walkie‐talkies as

used by Mumbai Fire Brigade should be used for communication

system.

XXX. The Fire Investigation work is totally neglected in Kerala. There

should be fire investigation wing to find out the real causes of fire and

the necessary steps to prevent Fire.

XXXI. Establish a mobile workshop for checking fitness & maintenance of

vehicles. This is worth adopting advice. There could be one mobile

workshop van in one district which could roam in the district for such

contigency.

XXXII. Mini MTU should be allotted to all Fire & Rescue Stations.

XXXIII. The establishing and running of fire hydrants should be made

mandatory in all cities / towns with the help of LSGD and KWA

departments, because it provides pressurized water supply.

XXXIV. Issue oxy acetylene gas cutting set to all fire & rescue Stations.

XXXV. Provide all fire & rescue stations hydraulic pressure testing machine.

XXXVI. Maintain refreshment and familiarization schedule for newly

inducted equipments and tools.

XXXVII. There are no equipments for rescuing from wells, cliffs, hill accidents.

They should be procured or improvised locally.

OMC‐KSJ Page340

XXXVIII. All fire & rescue stations need at least one compressor for air filling in

cylinders.

XXXIX. There should be district wise recruitment for the post of FM and

FDCPO instead of existing state level centralized recruitment.

XL. There is no SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) for Fireman in

rescue and firefighting operation, and no code of safety procedure is

followed during firefighting and rescue operation. This needs to be

looked in to by the Commandant General, KF&RS department.

XLI. Need for the Women station officers & fire fighters may be inducted

in the fire prevention wing of the KF&RS department.

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