NY ASSEMBLY BILL A07785 - ESCAPE SYSTEM FOR NY FIREFIGHTERS
NY DEPARTMENT OF LABOR 12NYCRR PART 800 click here
NEW YORK STATE ASSEMBLY BILL A07785 click here
NEW YORK STATE LAW (R I T website) click here
NEW YORK STATE LAW TEXT (R I T website) click here
COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
How do I know that my fire department is required to have escape systems?
This is based on your fire department's "risk assessment". A risk assessment includes the types and heights of buildings within your response area and mutual aid response areas. Risk Assessment Form
Does escape systems that are offered with 3/8" Kevlar webbing meet the standards of the NY law?
Yes. As long as the webbing is a part of the "manufactured escape system" and meets the NFPA 1983-2006 standards.
Who can train my fire department members on the escape system that we choose?
The New York State law requires that the department receive training by a "compitent" instructor. OFPC is recommending that the instructor have fire service instructor 1 and that they have an appropriate level of knowledge in ropes and escape systems. First Due Training does meet these standards and is the NY State Authorized Trainer for the Petzl EXO Personal Escape System and RIT Rescue & Escape Systems.
Is a rope and carabiner for rigging a body belay acceptable?
The decision to use rope and a carabiner for the intention of rigging a "body belay" is up to the fire department and would be determined through their risk assessment. If the fire department felt that that would be acceptable, they would need to document the justification for that decision in the event that they were reviewed or investigated by the Department of Labor. However, NFPA 1983-2006 5.2.2.2(1) states, using the rope only with a life safety harness or escape belt.
Can I build my own system?
In accordance with the NY Law, it is permitted. However, we caution a "home made" system. In building your own system, even if all components are NFPA rated, these components may not be compatible and can fail at a weaker/lesser strength than they were rated for.
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