Circular No. 52/2014/TT-BCA on the management, storage, and maintenance of fire prevention and firefighting equipment

 

VILLAGEGT

Regulations on management, storage, and maintenance

 of fire prevention and firefighting equipment

______________

 

Pursuant to the Law on Fire Prevention and Fighting; the Law Amending and Supplementing Certain Provisions of the Law on Fire Prevention and Fighting;

Pursuant to Decree No. 79/2014/NĐ-CP dated July 31, 2014 detailing the implementation of certain provisions of the Law on Fire Prevention and Fighting and the Law Amending and Supplementing Certain Provisions of the Law on Fire Prevention and Fighting (hereinafter referred to as Decree No. 79/2014/NĐ-CP);

Pursuant to Decree No. 77/2009/NĐ-CP dated September 15, 2009 stipulating the functions, tasks, powers, and organizational structure of the Ministry of Public Security (amended and supplemented by Decree No. 21/2014/NĐ-CP dated March 25, 2014);

Pursuant to the proposal of the Director of the Fire Prevention, Firefighting, and Rescue Police Department;

The Minister of Public Security promulgates this Circular stipulating regulations on the management, storage, and maintenance of fire prevention and firefighting equipment.

PART I

GENERAL PROVISIONS

Article 1. Scope of Regulation

This Circular stipulates the contents, principles, files, statistical systems, reporting requirements, and responsibilities of agencies, organizations, individuals related to the management, storage, and maintenance of fire prevention and firefighting equipment.

Article 2. Applicability

This Circular applies to:

1. Officers, non-commissioned officers, soldiers (hereinafter referred to as officers and soldiers) assigned the task of managing, storing, and maintaining fire prevention and firefighting equipment.

2. Public security units and localities.

3. Civil defense forces; grassroots fire prevention and firefighting forces; specialized fire prevention and firefighting forces.

4. Agencies, organizations, facilities, households, and individuals related to the management, storage, and maintenance of fire prevention and firefighting equipment.

Article 3. Fire Prevention and Firefighting Equipment

Fire prevention and firefighting equipment includes: Mechanical firefighting equipment (fire trucks, special-purpose vehicles for firefighting, firefighting pumps, firefighting boats, firefighting rafts); general firefighting equipment; personal protective clothing and equipment; rescue equipment; demolition tools; communication and firefighting command devices; fire alarm and firefighting systems as specified in Appendix V issued together with Decree No. 79/2014/NĐ-CP.

Article 4. Principles of Management, Storage, and Maintenance of Fire Prevention and Firefighting Equipment

2. Ensuring the purpose, requirements, safety, effectiveness, and contributing to national security protection and maintaining public order and social safety.

2. Strict management and ensuring readiness for firefighting.

3. Ensuring technical procedures, methods, safety, economy, and effectiveness.

Article 5. Prohibited acts

1. Appropriating, selling, exchanging, pledging, mortgaging, substituting, lending fire prevention and firefighting equipment entrusted for management, storage, and maintenance, and other acts of profiteering.

2. Arbitrarily altering the structure, function, and effect of fire prevention and firefighting equipment.

3. Using fire prevention and firefighting equipment for purposes not intended, beyond prescribed limits, or without following established procedures.

4. Destroying or intentionally damaging fire prevention and firefighting equipment entrusted for management, storage, and maintenance.

Chapter II

MANAGEMENT OF FIRE PREVENTION AND FIREFIGHTING EQUIPMENT

Article 6. Locations for Managing Fire Prevention and Firefighting Equipment

1. Fire trucks, special-purpose firefighting vehicles, firefighting pumps must be stored in covered buildings; firefighting boats and rafts must be docked at berths that meet operational requirements.

2. Other fire prevention and firefighting equipment must be managed safely and ensure readiness for firefighting.

3. Locations for managing fire prevention and firefighting equipment must ensure fire and explosion prevention safety and comply with environmental protection conditions.

4. Heads of agencies, organizations, and facilities equipped with fire prevention and firefighting equipment shall be responsible for organizing and assigning personnel to manage fire prevention and firefighting equipment.

Article 7. Statistics and Reporting on Fire Prevention and Fighting Equipment Management, Preservation, and Maintenance

1. Annually during the fourth quarter, organizations, entities, and premises equipped with fire prevention and fighting equipment must compile statistics and report to the local police authority managing their area on the management, preservation, and maintenance of fire prevention and fighting equipment according to the following contents:

a) Quantity, quality, and types of fire prevention and fighting equipment already provided.

b) Methods for preservation and maintenance.

c) Current status of management, preservation, and maintenance of equipment.

d) Results of implementing inspection recommendations made by the Fire Prevention and Fighting Police Department.

đ) Recommendations for improving the effectiveness of management, preservation, and maintenance of fire prevention and fighting equipment.

2. Reporting Procedure and Receiving Authority

a) Organizations, entities, premises, and civilian defense teams must report to the local police station (hereinafter referred to as the local police station) where they operate on the situation regarding the management, preservation, and maintenance of fire prevention and fighting equipment.

b) Premises-based and specialized firefighting teams must report to the directly managing organization or entity on the situation regarding the management, preservation, and maintenance of fire prevention and fighting equipment assigned to them.

c) The local police station and directly managing organizations or entities of premises-based and specialized firefighting teams have the responsibility to report to the district-level police station (hereinafter referred to as the district-level police station) or the district-level Fire Prevention and Fighting Police Department (hereinafter referred to as the district-level Fire Prevention and Fighting Police Department) managing their area on the situation regarding the management, preservation, and maintenance of fire prevention and fighting equipment within their jurisdiction.

d) The district-level police station and district-level Fire Prevention and Fighting Police Department must report to the provincial-level police station (hereinafter referred to as the provincial-level police station) or the provincial-level Fire Prevention and Fighting Police Department (hereinafter referred to as the provincial-level Fire Prevention and Fighting Police Department) directly managing them on the situation regarding the management, preservation, and maintenance of fire prevention and fighting equipment within their jurisdiction.

đ) The provincial-level police station and provincial-level Fire Prevention and Fighting Police Department must report to the Fire Prevention, Fighting, Rescue, and Relief Police Bureau on the situation regarding the management, preservation, and maintenance of fire prevention and fighting equipment within their jurisdiction.

Article 8. Management Files for Fire Prevention and Fighting Equipment

1. Management files for fire prevention and fighting equipment include:

a) Logs tracking the activities of firefighting vehicles, specialized firefighting vehicles, firefighting boats and ships (Form No. 01), and firefighting pumps (Form No. 02) issued together with this Circular.

b) Statistics and reports on the management, preservation, and maintenance of fire prevention and fighting equipment by organizations, entities, and premises.

2. Management files for fire prevention and fighting equipment shall be established, retained, and updated when changes occur under the direction of the Fire Prevention and Fighting Police Department and the heads of organizations, entities, and premises.

Article 9. Responsibilities of Heads of Organizations, Entities, Premises, and Households in Managing, Preserving, and Maintaining Fire Prevention and Fighting Equipment

1. Organize, direct, and inspect the implementation of management, preservation, and maintenance of fire prevention and fighting equipment within their jurisdiction.

2. Establish and manage files on fire prevention and fighting equipment according to the guidance of the Fire Prevention and Fighting Police Department.

3. Organize for staff, employees, and workers in organizations, entities, and premises to understand the functions and effects of fire prevention and fighting equipment provided, learn how to use it proficiently.

4. Assign personnel to handle the management, preservation, and maintenance of fire prevention and fighting equipment.

5. Compile statistics and report to the directly managing superior authority and the local police authority on the management, preservation, and maintenance of fire prevention and fighting equipment.

6. Inspect and handle violations within their authority or recommend competent authorities to handle violations in the management, preservation, and maintenance of fire prevention and fighting equipment within their jurisdiction.

7. Ensure funding to support the management, preservation, and maintenance of fire prevention and fighting equipment.

8. Households equipped with fire prevention and fighting equipment must manage, preserve, and maintain such equipment in accordance with the provisions of this Circular.

Article 10. Responsibilities of the person entrusted with managing, storing, and maintaining fire prevention and firefighting equipment

1. Manage, store, and maintain fire prevention and firefighting equipment in accordance with management regulations and guidance from the Fire Prevention and Firefighting Police Department.

2. Regularly inspect the places where equipment is managed, stored, and maintained within their scope of responsibility; promptly identify lost, damaged equipment or unsafe storage and maintenance locations to report to the directly responsible agency, organization, or facility for appropriate measures and corrections.

3. Statistically report to the head of the directly responsible agency, organization, or facility on the situation of managing, storing, and maintaining fire prevention and firefighting equipment.

Article 11. Responsibilities of the Fire Prevention and Firefighting Police Department

1. Responsibilities of the Fire Prevention, Firefighting, Rescue, and Disaster Relief Police Corps:

a) Uniformly guide and implement the work of managing, storing, and maintaining fire prevention and firefighting equipment nationwide;

b) Direct, monitor, and inspect the implementation of the work of managing, storing, and maintaining fire prevention and firefighting equipment in accordance with regulations;

c) Study and propose organizational structures and staffing to fulfill the tasks of managing, storing, and maintaining fire prevention and firefighting equipment within the People's Public Security;

d) Research, improve, repair, and conduct experimental production of fire prevention and firefighting equipment; compile technical guidelines for using, storing, and maintaining fire prevention and firefighting equipment;

đ) Inspect and handle violations within their authority or recommend competent authorities to handle violations in managing, storing, and maintaining fire prevention and firefighting equipment;

e) Guide and resolve complaints and denunciations related to managing, storing, and maintaining fire prevention and firefighting equipment in accordance with the law.

2. Responsibilities of Provincial and Central City Public Security and Fire Prevention and Firefighting Departments:

a) Direct, monitor, and inspect the implementation of the work of managing, storing, and maintaining fire prevention and firefighting equipment within their jurisdiction;

b) Assign officers and soldiers to manage, store, and maintain fire prevention and firefighting equipment within their jurisdiction;

c) Approve plans and organize training and capacity building for officers engaged in managing, storing, and maintaining fire prevention and firefighting equipment;

d) Statistically report to higher-level agencies on the work of managing, storing, and maintaining fire prevention and firefighting equipment within their jurisdiction;

đ) Inspect and handle violations within their authority or recommend competent authorities to handle violations in managing, storing, and maintaining fire prevention and firefighting equipment;

e) Guide and resolve complaints and denunciations related to managing, storing, and maintaining fire prevention and firefighting equipment in accordance with the law;

g) Ensure funding to support the work of managing, storing, and maintaining fire prevention and firefighting equipment within their jurisdiction.

Chapter III

STORAGE AND MAINTENANCE OF FIRE PREVENTION AND FIREFIGHTING EQUIPMENT

Section 1

STORAGE AND MAINTENANCE OF MECHANIZED FIREFIGHTING EQUIPMENT

Article 12. Regular Storage and Maintenance

1. Arrangement and Cleaning of Equipment

a) Neatly arrange and check the quantity of equipment and tools on the vehicle, boat, or raft according to regulations;

b) Clean the driver's cabin, cushion, seat, body, undercarriage of the vehicle, boat, or raft, and compartments for fire pumps, control equipment compartments, and compartments for fire prevention and firefighting equipment and tools;

c) Clean windshields, rearview mirrors, various lighting and signal lights.

2. Storage and Maintenance

a) Engine

- Clean the entire engine, fuel supply lines, air filters, high-pressure pumps, fuel injectors; drain water and contaminants from the fuel filter and carburetor; for gasoline engines, check the ignition system, spark plugs, and tighten the distributor wires; check the fuel filter and carburetor and clean them with cleaning agents;

- Check fuel, oil, battery, and engine components; replenish fuel in the tank if necessary (the tank must always be full or at least 4/5 of its capacity);

- Check lubricating oil levels, coolant levels, windshield washer fluid, power steering fluid, clutch hydraulic fluid, brake hydraulic fluid, and specialized system hydraulic fluid (if applicable);

- Check the battery and fluid levels in each compartment of the battery; if low, top up with distilled water; check and tighten all electrical connections and battery terminals; clean the outside of the battery with warm water and dry it thoroughly;

- Check vacuum pump oil or priming pump reservoir; replenish vacuum pump oil if necessary;

- Turn on the ignition; observe dashboard lights and gauges for normal signals; if warning lights are on, find the cause and address it;

- Daily, start and run the engine of mechanical equipment for 15 minutes;

- Run the engine at different speeds (without sudden acceleration); observe pressure gauge readings for lubricating oil, fuel, coolant temperature, air pressure, battery charging indicator lights, and other warning lights. If unusual noises or dangerous signals appear, shut off the engine immediately and report to the technical department for inspection and repair.

b) Electrical System

Check the operation of various lights, traffic signal horns, priority signaling devices, and electrical switches. If damage is found, report it to the technical department for repair.

c) Drive Train

- Add grease and oil to the clutch linkage, cross joints, drive shafts, and steering drive components; check for transmission fluid leaks;

- Check the clutch to ensure smooth gear shifting without noise.

d) Braking System

- Check the braking system's seal through pressure gauge readings and warning lights;

- Check for air and brake fluid leaks at brake hoses, and check the level of brake fluid in the power brake reservoir;

- Move the vehicle forward and backward, apply the brakes to test the braking system's effectiveness;

- Drain water from the air reservoir (if present).

đ) Steering System: Check and tighten all steering linkage joints.

e) Suspension and Chassis

- Check the chassis, mudguards, tail springs, spring hanger bushings, leaf springs, spring guides, spring center bolts, spring stop bolts; adjust if misaligned, tighten if loose; clean, paint, and apply preservative grease as required.

- Check shock absorbers, tighten shock absorber bolts; inspect springs and rubber mounts, replace if broken;

- Inspect all tires, inflate to standard pressure if underinflated; remove hard objects stuck between tire treads;

g) Driver's cabin and cargo area

- Clean and inspect the driver's cabin, windscreen, doors, windows, rearview mirrors, seat cushions, and mechanisms for raising and lowering the driver's cabin;

- Inspect the cargo area, side walls, wall locks, hinges, and connections securing the cargo area to the vehicle frame; check and tighten crossmember bolts, steps, and mudguards;

h) Firefighting water pump system installed on firefighting vehicles

- Check the operation of the water pump system, specifically: inspect the operation and sealing of water valves, foam valves, air valves, gauges, and warning lights; lubricate and grease the pump shaft and rotating mechanisms; check the operation of the drive shaft transmitting power to the pump, repair immediately if unusual noises are detected;

- Check the seal of the firefighting water pump by closing all pump valves, suction hose cap, perform a vacuum operation until maximum vacuum is achieved (the method varies depending on the vehicle type), the vacuum time should not exceed 30 seconds. Stop the vacuum operation, determine the seal by observing the vacuum gauge; if the needle returns less than one mark (equivalent to 0.1 Bar) within two minutes, the pump is sealed; if it returns faster, the pump is leaking, find the cause and fix it;

- Check the priming water pump's ability to work by performing a vacuum operation when the centrifugal pump is sealed, the vacuum value must reach at least -0.6 bar (6/10 marks on the low-pressure gauge), if lower, maintain and repair the priming pump;

- Check the centrifugal pump shaft and impeller's operational capability by running the pump at low and medium speeds (do not run at high speed or suddenly increase throttle as the pump will not draw water); check the bolts securing the pump to the vehicle frame; inspect water spray, foam-air mixture spray, water shut-off valves, high and low-pressure gauges, and tachometer ensuring they are functioning properly and meet standards;

- The suction hose must be tight, not bent, punctured, have sufficient padding, and fit smoothly and tightly;

- Regularly check the firefighting water tank, foam firefighting tank, ensure they are full, clean, and leak-free; the foam firefighting tank must be securely tightened and leak-free;

- Inspect firefighting equipment and tools installed on the vehicle, such as nozzles, hoses, couplings, ladders, etc., ensuring they are complete and in good technical condition;

i) Specialized vehicle parts for firefighting

- Tighten all support brackets, transmission boxes, mounting brackets, lifting mechanisms;

- Clean the oil filter of the hydraulic fluid tank, purge air from the hydraulic system; check the oil level in the tank, top up if insufficient;

- Inspect and operate hydraulic lifting, lowering, rotating mechanisms, winch mechanisms, ladder deployment and retraction mechanisms, and hydraulic cab mechanisms;

- Maintain cables, safety mechanisms for aerial ladder trucks, rescue and recovery vehicles, and crane trucks;

k) For firefighting pumps

- Inspect all nuts and bolts; tighten all components, connections, parts, and electrical terminals;

- Check fuel and lubricating oil levels, ensuring they are sufficient, clean, and free from leaks;

- Inspect the electrical system, secure the battery to its mount, tighten the battery cable connectors, check the electrolyte level in the battery, and secure all electrical terminals;

- Start the pump, check the firefighting equipment installed with the pump;

l) For firefighting boats and vessels

- Regularly clean all engine parts, deck surfaces, and firefighting equipment on the boat or vessel;

- Inspect the fuel, lubrication, and cooling systems;

- Inspect the steering system and navigation equipment;

- Start the engine, check the technical condition and maintenance according to the manufacturer's specifications;

- Inspect the firefighting water pump system installed on the boat or vessel; check pipes, hoses, and nozzles, maintain according to the manufacturer's specifications;

- For inflatable boats stored on land

+ Store the boat in a cool, dry place, avoiding direct sunlight; if stored outdoors, cover the boat to protect it from rain and sun;

+ Use soap and water to clean the boat hull. If there are stubborn stains, use a cleaning agent and rinse the hull thoroughly with clean water;

+ Clean the air valve and horizontal bars; regularly check the air pump, fully charge the air pump battery (for electric air pump models);

3. Upon completion of storage and maintenance, officers, soldiers, or personnel assigned to store and maintain the equipment must record all details of the storage and maintenance activities in the activity logbook. If any part of the equipment is missing or damaged, report it to the immediate supervisor for prompt action.

Article 13. Post-firefighting Maintenance and Servicing

1. Maintenance and Servicing

a) Open all water spray valves and pump shaft valves to drain excess water from the centrifugal pump;

b) Refill the fire-fighting water tank with clean water;

c) Inspect clutch parts, brakes, gearboxes, power take-off units, steering columns, front and rear axles, tire surfaces, and tire pressure;

d) Inspect the vehicle's exterior, tighten wheel nuts and hubcaps;

đ) Check lubricating oil, hydraulic fluid, coolant, and fuel to ensure there are no leaks; add oil, water, and fuel according to specified standards;

e) Inspect fan belt tension, air compressor belt condition, battery status, lights, and horns;

g) Inspect the technical condition of nozzles, hoses, suction pipes, filters, ladders, masks... and clean firefighting equipment and tools, arranging them properly in the vehicle compartments;

h) Clean the vehicle's exterior and undercarriage, wipe down the pump, engine, driver's cab, crew cab, windshields, gauges, and lighting fixtures;

i) Wash firefighting clothing, hoses, and dry them.

2. In cases where firefighting vehicles use saltwater, dirty water, or foam extinguishing agents, they must be cleaned and rinsed with clean water after firefighting or training exercises, including nozzles, hoses, foam agent tanks, foam delivery systems, centrifugal pump impellers, fan blades, pump shaft seals.

Article 14. Regular Maintenance and Servicing

Monthly regular maintenance and servicing must be carried out as follows:

1. Engine

a) Inspect and adjust valve clearance;

b) Inspect cylinder head gaskets, intake and exhaust manifolds, and tighten engine mounting bolts;

c) Inspect engine cylinder compression;

d) Remove the fuel pump, clean it, and check its operation;

đ) Remove the carburetor, clean it, blow through fuel lines, adjust float level, change motor oil, clean the centrifugal filter and diesel filter screen;

e) Inspect the fan, radiator shroud, drain valve, cooling system hoses, radiator, and thermostat operation;

2. Undercarriage

a) Inspect parking brake and foot brake operation, adjust and tighten parking brake mounting bolts;

b) Remove the brake drum, inspect brake pads, brake shoes, springs, and wheel bearing;

c) Inspect wheel condition and tighten wheel mounting bolts; rotate tires if necessary;

d) Inspect front and rear axle conditions and adjust wheel toe-in;

đ) Change transmission oil after 12,000 km; change shock absorber oil after 25,000 - 30,000 km;

e) Change ball bearing oil in the centrifugal pump after 200 hours of operation;

g) Inspect wheel bearing condition; replace grease and adjust bearings to prevent axial movement;

h) Inspect undercarriage condition; apply graphite powder to leaf spring surfaces;

i) Inspect steering column fluid; replenish if low;

k) Inspect steering, brakes, and clutch; grease steering column bearing;

3. Electrical System

a) Remove the battery, clean its surface, clear vent holes, check electrolyte level and concentration, add distilled water if necessary; check voltage, recharge if low;

b) Inspect spark plug operation; replace if cracked;

c) Remove alternator and starter motor, inspect carbon brushes and slip rings; clean their surfaces;

d) Remove ignition distributor, inspect operation and clean contact points; adjust contact gap for contact ignition systems; check correct timing;

đ) Inspect ignition coil and high-tension leads;

e) Inspect headlight operation;

g) Inspect and tighten distributor, regulator, spark plug caps, temperature, water, and oil pressure gauges;

h) Lubricate camshaft bushings and distributor mounting plate;

4. Fire Pump Water System

a) Inspect shut-off valves, ensure tightness, operate smoothly;

b) Inspect pump operation: Open water valve from tank to pump, open recirculation valve back to tank, run pump at different speeds to check operation, close recirculation valve and increase pressure to 10 kg/cm²; inspect pump mounting bolts, water spray, foam-air mixture valves, tank water valves, high and low-pressure gauges, and tachometer to ensure proper operation;²c) Inspect suction hose, coupling, and gasket, ensuring tightness when installed on pump and between sections;

d) Inspect foam-air mixing system flow;

đ) Inspect fire-fighting water tank, repaint if rusted;

5. Drive the vehicle for a short distance to check overall operation and equipment; repair any defects immediately;

6. For specialized firefighting vehicle components

a) Inspect boom structure, ladder stages, welds on lifting shafts and ladder feet; inspect, adjust, or replace slide bearings, supports, rollers, or telescoping pipe sections;

b) Inspect ladder extension chain operation;

c) Inspect and tighten hydraulic pump drive shaft couplings; check hydraulic pump pressure, gears, housing, and adjust as needed; inspect and tighten hydraulic pump bearing mounting bolts;

d) After three months of use, inspect and tighten all hydraulic and lifting mechanism mounting bolts; carefully inspect welds and check ladder platform and guardrail;

đ) Inspect and clean generator slip ring;

e) Inspect junction box and maintain good cable connection;

g) Inspect automatic engine control function linked to hydraulic pump;

h) Inspect control valve joint and linkage, manual disengagement of electric control valve; inspect piston rod fixation, welds, and cylinder bearing;

i) Replace hydraulic filter element after 12 months of use;

k) Drain condensate water from below the hydraulic oil reservoir.

k) Open the valve below the hydraulic oil tank to drain the condensed water;

l) Check the working pressure of the control valve for the main circuit, rotating circuit, and power circuit of the ladder truck; the hydraulic pump pressure of the hoist circuit and crane circuit of the rescue vehicle;

m) Inspect the condition of the water pipe of the ladder truck and conduct a pressure test on the pipe;

n) Inspect the condition of the water spray nozzle and valve; the oil level of the transmission gear box.

7. For firefighting vessels and boats

a) Maintenance of the vessel's hull

- Must be lifted onto a slipway for repainting for metal and composite hull vessels operating in saltwater every 12 months, in brackish water every 18 months, and in freshwater every 24 months.

- Must be lifted onto a slipway for scraping, burning, and repainting according to regulations from the waterline downwards for wooden-hulled vessels operating in saltwater every 6 months, in brackish water every 9 months, and in freshwater every 12 months.

b) Engine maintenance

Carry out the preservation and maintenance regime according to the file, history, and manufacturer's specifications for each type of engine installed on the vessel.

Section 2

MAINTENANCE AND MAINTENANCE OF FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT

 GENERAL PURPOSE

Article 15. Maintenance and maintenance of fire extinguishers

1. Classification of fire extinguishers

a) Type 1: Fire extinguisher with direct compression pressure containing water, water with additives, or foam;

b) Type 2: Fire extinguisher with direct compression pressure containing powder;

c) Type 3: Fire extinguisher using a gas cartridge containing water, water with additives;

d) Type 4: Fire extinguisher using a gas cartridge containing powder;

đ) Type 5: Carbon dioxide fire extinguisher.

2. Requirements for maintenance and maintenance

a) Check the seal and safety mechanism of the fire extinguisher to determine if it has been used or not;

b) Attach a label or tag to the fire extinguisher after maintenance and repair;

c) Replace the safety pin and reseal with new seals.

3. Regular maintenance and upkeep

a) For types 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 fire extinguishers, specifically:

- Inspect the exterior of the fire extinguisher to determine if there is rust. If the rust is minor, maintenance should be performed to continue usage; if the rust is significant, the extinguisher must be removed;

- Weigh the fire extinguisher (with or without the operating mechanism as per the manufacturer's instructions) or use an appropriate method to check the amount of fire-extinguishing agent contained accurately. Compare the weight with the initial weight recorded when the extinguisher was first put into use;

- Inspect the spray nozzle and hose of the fire extinguisher and clean thoroughly; replace if damaged;

- Check the pressure indicator. If the pressure drops more than 10% or exceeds the maximum allowable reduction as per the manufacturer's instructions, follow the manufacturer's guidance;

- Inspect the operating mechanism and control the release (if equipped) for fire extinguishers designed with removable operating mechanisms as per the manufacturer's instructions;

b) For types 3 and 4 fire extinguishers

- Clean the interior and exterior of the fire extinguisher; inspect the interior and exterior of the fire extinguisher to detect corrosion and damage. If the corrosion is minor or the damage is insignificant, maintenance should be performed to continue usage; if the corrosion is severe, the extinguisher must be removed;

- Open the fire extinguisher or disassemble to check the quality of the fire extinguisher;

- Inspect the exterior of the gas cartridge to detect corrosion and damage. If the gas cartridge is corroded or damaged, it must be replaced. Weigh the gas cartridge and compare its weight with the weight marked on the cartridge. If the gas cartridge contains less than the minimum marked weight or is found to be leaking, it must be repaired, refilled, or replaced with a new cartridge;

- Refill the fire extinguisher to its original level (type 3), replenishing the lost water. For water with additives or foam solution, refill the fire extinguisher according to the manufacturer's instructions. Inspect and clean the spray nozzle, branch pipe filter, and discharge pipe inside the gas vent valve (if installed);

- Inspect the powder in the fire extinguisher (type 4), specifically: Mix the powder by shaking and tilting the fire extinguisher. If there are signs of clumping that cannot be sprayed, all fire-extinguishing powder must be replaced and the fire extinguisher refilled with the manufacturer's powder. Inspect, adjust, and clean the spray nozzle, hose, and discharge pipe;

- Inspect the sealing ring, membrane, and hose; replace if damaged;

- Reinstall the fire extinguisher according to the manufacturer's instructions.

c) For type 5 fire extinguishers

- Inspect and clean the spray nozzle and fire hose; replace if damaged;

- Conduct an electrical conductivity test on the fire hose assembly.

4. Periodic maintenance and upkeep

After 5 years (from the date of manufacture), fire extinguishers of types 1, 2, and 3 must undergo maintenance as follows:

a) Discharge the fire extinguisher completely. After discharge, the pressure gauge must read "0" and the indicator device (if equipped) must show the discharged position;

b) Open the fire extinguisher and clean the interior of the fire extinguisher body; detect corrosion and damage inside the fire extinguisher body. If the corrosion is minor and the damage is insignificant, maintenance should be performed to continue usage; if the corrosion is severe, the extinguisher must be removed;

c) Inspect and clean the spray nozzle, filter, and hose, air vents (or other air vent mechanisms) inside the lid or valve and internal discharge pipe;

d) Inspect the sealing ring and hose (if installed) and replace if damaged;

đ) Inspect the operating mechanism for movement;

e) Reassemble and refill the fire extinguisher.

Article 16. Preservation and Maintenance of Various Types of Firefighting Equipment

1. Preservation and Maintenance of Fire Hose

a) Preservation and Maintenance in Storage: The hose must be placed on a rack in a dry place, away from chemicals, gasoline, and oil; if stored for a long time, it should be rotated and the folds changed.

b) Preservation and Maintenance on Vehicles: The hose on firefighting vehicles must be properly coiled and placed in the designated compartments; no other tools or equipment should be placed in these compartments.

c) Preservation and Maintenance After Firefighting or Fire Drills

- When deploying the hose, avoid sharp bends or heavy objects pressing on it, and do not lay the hose over sharp objects, burning areas, acid, or corrosive substances;

- When connecting the hose to the vehicle's nozzle, absolutely do not move the vehicle, and do not pull or drag the hose near the nozzle;

- When pumping water, do not suddenly increase or decrease speed, and do not exceed the working pressure of each type of hose;

- Dry the hose before rolling it up and storing it in the warehouse or placing it in the hose compartment of the firefighting vehicle; do not stack wet hoses on the vehicle.

2. Preservation and Maintenance of Suction Pipes, Fire Ladders, Connectors, Y-Splitters, T-Splitters, Filter Buckets, and Fire Escape Ladders

a) Check the technical condition of the equipment, clean them thoroughly, and arrange them neatly on racks, floors, or in storage cabinets; do not throw or toss them when arranging or transporting;

b) Do not store the equipment near gasoline, oil, acid, or corrosive chemicals, or allow oil to stick to the equipment;

c) Equipment must be arranged according to their types and quality to facilitate management, preservation, maintenance, and firefighting;

d) Do not place heavy objects on top of the equipment, and do not stack too many pieces of equipment on top of each other to prevent deformation or flattening.

Section 3

PRESERVATION AND MAINTENANCE OF CLOTHING AND PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

 AND FIRE RESISTANT EQUIPMENT

Article 17. Regular Preservation and Maintenance

1. Cleaning of Clothing and Personal Protective Equipment

a) Clothing and personal protective equipment must be cleaned both inside and out, dried thoroughly to prevent mold, and arranged neatly in designated places;

b) Isolation respirators, filter respirators, and toxic gas masks must be wiped clean; check the air quantity in the cylinder and the seal of the valve, mask cover, and must be fully charged with air before storage.

2. Storage and Maintenance

a) Rubber boots and gloves, heat-resistant clothing, chemical-resistant clothing, and radiation-resistant clothing must be wiped dry with a soft cloth soaked in warm water and placed in designated locations. Heat-resistant clothing must be hung to avoid wrinkling.

b) Air charging machines for isolation respirators must be cleaned regularly, specifically: wipe the entire body of the machine, air filter, base, support frame, air charging pipe, exhaust filter, engine air filter, fuel tank; adjust the engine speed, starter cord, pressure gauge.

c) Pants, shirts, hats, rubber boots, gloves, belts, rubber boots and gloves, heat-resistant clothing, toxic gas masks, rubber parts of the mask cover must be neatly arranged and stacked orderly. When arranging for storage, heavier items should be placed at the bottom and lighter ones on top. Between each type of clothing and equipment, place a layer of thin soft paper and mothballs to prevent insects and termites.

d) For the engines of air charging machines for isolation respirators, before starting, turn on the ignition switch to start the machine; if the machine does not start after three attempts, recheck and do not continuously attempt to start. If the machine makes unusual noises, immediately check the cause and repair it.

Article 18. Preservation and maintenance after firefighting and firefighting drills

1. Firefighting uniforms, including shirts, pants, hats, boots, gloves, belts, and masks must be cleaned both inside and out; they must be dried in a well-ventilated and cool place.

2. Insulating gloves and boots, as well as heat-resistant clothing, must be wiped dry with a soft cloth soaked in warm water after use. Heat-resistant clothing should not be folded but hung to prevent wrinkling.

3. Isolating respirators and filtering masks must be cleaned after use. They must be washed thoroughly with warm water under running water, dried with a soft cloth, and air-dried or dried using a dryer; gas cylinders must be removed for refilling; back supports, straps, valves, buckles, joints, demand valves, and face covers must be checked before storage.

Section 4

PRESERVATION AND MAINTENANCE OF RESCUE EQUIPMENT

Article 19. Preservation and maintenance of rescue cushions

1. Regular preservation

a) Clean all equipment thoroughly. Check the functionality of exhaust pipes and ventilation nets;

b) Observe and inspect for any unusual scratches or breaks on the equipment;

c) Check the tension of the ropes located at the lower compartment of the cushion;

d) Check the fuel level of the generator, and if insufficient, replenish it;

e) Place the equipment in a dry location, avoiding direct sunlight exposure.

2. Preservation and maintenance after firefighting and firefighting drills

a) For the cushion

- Deploy the jump cushion and inflate it fully; keep the cushion inflated for at least 30 minutes;

- Check connections and linkages (for cushions with fans) while inflated;

- Check electrical cables and plugs; check inflation valves and gas cylinders for pneumatic cushions;

- Fold and roll up the cushion according to regulations; ensure the cushion is not damp or wet.

b) Check the generator motor of the cushion, specifically:

- The cooling and heat dissipation system of the motor; the engine air filter system; the hydraulic pump system, valve clearance;

- The fuel injection pump and electronic fuel injection system;

- The oil filter system, oil drain, and cleaning of contaminants accumulated during operation;

- The high-pressure oil pipe system, pressure pump, and oil drain valve;

- Check wear and looseness (bearings, bushings, and other mechanical parts);

- Check the sediment cup and coolant water separator, radiator;

- Check all bolts and nuts of the machine.

3. After two years from the date of putting the cushion into use, test the quality of the cushion by dropping an 80 kg weight with a surface area of 0.20 m² onto the cushion from a height of 30 meters; repeat the test at least three times.² at a height of 30 meters above the cushion; repeat the test at least three times.

Article 20. Preservation and maintenance of common rescue equipment

Common rescue equipment such as rescue ropes, rescue ladders, rescue tubes, etc., must be regularly preserved and maintained as follows:

1. Check the technical condition of the equipment; clean them thoroughly, arrange them on racks, floors, or in storage cabinets according to their types and quality.

2. Avoid exposing the equipment to direct sunlight; if stored outdoors, cover the equipment to protect it from rain and sun.

3. Do not store the equipment near gasoline, oil, acid, or corrosive chemicals, nor allow oil or grease to adhere to the equipment.

Section 5

MAINTENANCE AND PRESERVATION OF DEMOLITION EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS

Article 21. Preservation and Regular Maintenance

1. Arrange and clean equipment and tools.

2. Check the fuel level of the hydraulic pump, the hydraulic oil level in the tank, and replenish if insufficient.

3. Detect defects in cutting blades, saws, and other parts of the generator.

4. Inspect and clean the components of the cutter, specifically: air intake; fuel filter, spark plug, cooling fins on the cylinder, muffler, tension of the drive belt; cutting blade and gearbox; cutting blade guard; starter, starter cord, and outside the air intake port; nuts and bolts, stop switch; fuel tank cover and welds.

Article 22. Preservation and Maintenance After Firefighting Drills

1. Cutters, tractors, breakers, and jacks must be inspected, cleaned thoroughly, and dried before storage after firefighting or firefighting drills.

2. Inspect cutting blades; retract and fold the cutting blade head when not in use; inspect and clean the separating blade and jaw; check the heads of the jacks. For hydraulic pumps, check the fuel level of the engine and the hydraulic oil level in the tank.

3. Check the operation of the control lever, the operation of the hydraulic pump engine, and the operation of the pressure relief valve.

Chapter 6

 PRESERVATION AND MAINTENANCE OF EQUIPMENT AND COMMUNICATION, COMMAND FIREFIGHTING DEVICES

FIRE FIGHTING COMMUNICATION AND COMMAND

Article 23. Preservation and Regular Maintenance

1. For handheld radios

a) Turn off the device; use soft cloth to clean all parts of the radio such as the body, antenna, channel change knob, volume adjustment knob, function keys, and antenna;

b) Remove the battery from the radio and use a soft cloth to clean the battery contacts and terminals that connect to the radio;

c) Check the contact condition of the battery terminals with the charger to ensure normal charging;

d) After cleaning the radio, reinstall the antenna, insert the battery back into the radio, and turn on the power switch to resume operation.

2. For fixed radios 25-50W installed on vehicles

a) Check the power connection at the battery terminal, ensuring good contact;

b) Check the antenna, preventing it from touching the vehicle's body;

c) Check the operation of the power converter, battery for the radio, ensuring stable power supply.

3. For cabinets containing digital signal detection devices and other devices in the cabinet

a) Clean inside and outside the cabinet;

b) Always close the front, rear doors, and bottom lid of the cabinet;

c) Check the power socket connections for the cabinet; replace loose sockets.

Article 24. Preservation and Maintenance After Firefighting Drills

1. Turn off handheld radios.

2. Remove the battery, antenna, and earphones from the device and use a soft cloth to clean them thoroughly.

3. Clean the body of the radio and the battery contact points; charge the radio battery.

Article 25. Periodic Preservation and Maintenance

1. Once a year, preservation and maintenance must be conducted once.

2. Storage and Maintenance

a) For central transmitter-receiver stations: Measure the transmission power and reception sensitivity to meet the technical standards of the machine; measure ground resistance;

b) For antenna towers: Check the cable ties, antenna tower eccentricity; check the appropriate angle of the antenna and handle new obstructions;

c) For fixed radios 25-50W installed on vehicles: Check and measure the transmission power and reception sensitivity to meet technical standards; check the entire power supply section for the device; test communication range;

d) For handheld radios: Check and measure the transmission power and reception sensitivity to meet technical standards; check and measure the battery capacity for handheld radios; test communication range;

e) For multi-network interconnection devices ACU-T/ACU-1000: Check the contact terminals with cables; check and test hardware devices to connect to DSP, PSTN, HSP-2 networks; test multi-network connections.

Section 7

PRESERVATION AND MAINTENANCE OF FIRE ALARM AND FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEMS

Article 26. Maintenance and servicing of automatic and semi-automatic fire alarm systems

1. After installation, automatic and semi-automatic fire alarm systems must be tested to check quality and may only be put into operation after test results show that the system meets all design requirements and relevant standards.

2. Once in operation, automatic and semi-automatic fire alarm systems must be inspected at least twice a year to assess the quality and operational capability of the equipment within the system.

3. Regular maintenance shall be carried out according to environmental conditions at the installation site and manufacturer's instructions, but a full system maintenance must be organized at least once every two years.

The maintenance of automatic and semi-automatic fire alarm systems must follow the manufacturer's instructions and TCVN 5738:2001.

Article 27. Maintenance and servicing of automatic and semi-automatic fire suppression systems

1. After installation, automatic and semi-automatic fire suppression systems must be tested to check quality and may only be put into operation after test results show that the system meets all design requirements and relevant standards.

2. Once in operation, automatic and semi-automatic fire suppression systems must undergo regular maintenance once a year to assess the quality and operational capability of the equipment within the system.

3. The maintenance of automatic and semi-automatic fire suppression systems must follow the manufacturer's instructions and industry standards (TCVN 6101:1996, TCVN 6305:1997, TCVN 71611:2002, TCVN 7336:2003, other related standards).

Chapter IV

IMPLEMENTATION

Article 28. Effective Date

This Circular takes effect from December 25, 2014, and replaces previous regulations of the Ministry of Public Security on management, maintenance, and servicing of fire prevention and firefighting equipment.

Article 29. Responsibility for Implementation

1. The Director of the Fire Prevention, Firefighting, and Rescue Police Department shall be responsible for directing, inspecting, and urging the implementation of this Circular.

2. Directors of General Departments, Heads of units directly under the Ministry of Public Security, Provincial Police Chiefs, Fire Prevention and Firefighting Police Chiefs of provinces and centrally-administered cities, and related organizations and individuals are responsible for implementing this Circular.

3. It is requested that Heads of Ministries, agencies equivalent to Ministries, agencies under the Government, People's Committees of provinces and centrally-administered cities, within their functions, tasks, and authorities, cooperate with the Ministry of Public Security in managing and inspecting the implementation of fire prevention and firefighting equipment management, maintenance, and servicing by agencies, organizations, and facilities under their jurisdiction.

During the implementation of this Circular, if there are difficulties or obstacles, local police units, related organizations, and individuals shall report to the Ministry of Public Security (through the Fire Prevention, Firefighting, and Rescue Police Bureau) for timely guidance./.