Regulations on maintenance and preservation of rescue mattresses in fire prevention and fighting in Vietnam

Regulations on maintenance and preservation of rescue mattresses in fire prevention and fighting in Vietnam​ (Illustration)

Article 19 Circular 52/2014/TT-BCA stipulates the maintenance and preservation of rescue mattresses in fire prevention and fighting in Vietnam as follows:

1. Regular Maintenance

- Clean the entire equipment. Check the working capability of the exhaust pipe and ventilation net;

- Inspect and detect any unusual scratches or cuts on the equipment;

- Check the tension status of the wires in the lower compartment of the mattress;

- Check the fuel level of the generator, and add if necessary;

- Store the equipment in a dry place, avoiding direct sunlight.

2. Maintenance and Preservation After Fire Fighting or Fire Drill

- For the mattress:

• Deploy the jump mattress and fully inflate it; keep the mattress inflated for at least 30 minutes;
• Check the connections and links (for mattresses using blowers) when the mattress is inflated;
• Check the electric cables and plugs; check the valve and gas tank for mattresses using compressed air;
• Fold and roll the mattress accordingly; ensure the mattress is dry and not damp.

- Check the mattress generator engine:

• Cooling and heat dissipation parts of the engine; engine air filter system; engine valve system, and valve clearance;
• Fuel pump and electronic fuel injection system;
• Oil filter system, oil drain, and clean the dirt accumulated during engine operation;
• Oil pressure pipe system, pressure pump, and oil drain valve;
• Inspect wear and clearance (bearings, bushings, and other mechanical parts);
• Check sediment and water separation cup, recirculating cooling tank;
• Inspect all bolts and nuts of the engine.

3. After 2 years from the date the mattress is put into use, the quality of the mattress must be tested by dropping an 80 kg weight with an area of 0.20 m2 from a height of 30 meters onto the mattress; perform the test at least 3 times.

In addition, this Circular also stipulates the maintenance and preservation of other common rescue equipment such as rescue ropes, rescue ladders, rescue tubes... which must be regularly maintained and preserved as follows:

- Inspect the technical condition of the equipment; clean, arrange on racks, shelves, or in storage cabinets by type and quality.

- Avoid direct sunlight; if the equipment is left outdoors, cover it to avoid rain and sun.

- Do not place the equipment near gasoline, oil, acid, and corrosive chemicals or allow grease to adhere to the equipment.

Details are available at Circular 52/2014/TT-BCA which took effect from December 25, 2014.

Ty Na

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