DRS Blog
December 2016:
A user had an Enforcer connected to a steel cable, or wire rope. As the cable was loaded it unwound, twisting the Enforcer’s swivel eye and the friction generated unscrewed the bolt holding the swivel and it came apart.
"Two men were pulled, unresponsive, from a 25' manhole by emergency services."
"Two brothers, in their 20's, were recovered from a crude oil tanker that they had been tasked with cleaning."
In the last few months there have been at least two tragic incidents in the US resulting in loss of life, another reminder of just how dangerous confined spaces can be.
REQUIRED ACTION:
- Immediately remove any affected 3D products from service.
- Contact CMC Customer Support at (800) 235-5741, (805) 562-9120, or via email at recall@cmcrescue.com to initiate the return process.
- Return the 3D directly to CMC for a no-cost full replacement of the product. CMC will issue a call tag for pick-up of the item and cover all cost of shipping.
The first edition of the NFPA 1983 was originally intended to give requirements only for ropes used by the fire service. However, it quickly became apparent that requirements for all other rigging components - hardware, software, and harnesses - would also be needed. As NFPA 1983 has continued to undergo updates and revisions, the standard has grown to encompass a much broader range of equipment, now stipulating requirements for design, construction, and performance.
We've all heard of someone who "broke a hip." But what exactly does that mean? In fact, what exactly are the hips, how do they break, and what can we as first responders and rescuers do about it?
Not surprisingly this is a complex topic with a huge amount of anatomy and physiology involved as well as a lot of research, and sometimes conflicting opinions, on how best to treat.
This blog aims to give you a basic, but comprehensive overview of Pelvic Instability or Trauma. We'll examine the relevant Anatomy and Physiology, Epidemiology, Classifications, Signs and Symptoms, as well as Treatment options for patients suffering from Pelvic Trauma. Stay safe!
Information Regarding Possible Cracks on ASAP Lock
FACT: March, 30 2016 - During routine equipment inspections one customer detected cracks on the stainless steel arms on 3 ASAP LOCK units. These 3 defective products will be returned to Petzl for analysis.
- As described in the instruction for use, Petzl ASAP LOCK must be used with the ASAP’SORBER or the ABSORBICA L57. These two shock absorbers limit the dynamic forces to 5KN.
- In the worst case scenario, a cracked ASAP LOCK arm presents no additional risk to the user.
- However, the presence of such cracks in the arm requires immediate retirement of the ASAP LOCK.
One of the challenges with any rescue operation is striking a balance between safe rescue methods that workers can learn and remember when needed and a plan that covers and addresses every aspect of risk. How do you keep the rescuers safe, while making sure the rescue plan isn't so complicated that it takes 3 hours to make entry?
Black Diamond announced on 4 Feb 2016 that they would be doing a voluntary recall of a number of their carabiners and quickdraws manufactured between Dec 2014 and Jan 2016 citing that possible defects in the gate could lead to carabiner failure or malfunction.
Hosted by Spruce Grove Fire Rescue, we will be conducting a series of Confined Space Level 1 - Operations courses, starting in March 2016.
This is an awesome opportunity to get industry-leading training a little closer to home if you are east of the Rockies.
A recent Herald Scotland Article reports that Xervon Palmers Ltd has been fined approximately $412,000 (Cdn) due a series of errors in judgement that ended with the death of a 44 year old worker inside one of the legs of the Tay rail bridge. This judgement comes almost six years after the incident and, though it reflects a severe punishment, the fact that it has taken so long shows just how poorly understood the dangers of confined spaces can be.
