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PMS 448

Tank – Propane, Fuel, LPG, 20 lb.Tank (5GL)

NFES #
000491
Category
Camp
Updated
Storage and Shelf Life Checks
Yes
Storage and Shelf Life Procedure
1. Store in secured (no-smoking) area. Tanks will vent fumes when they get hot. Store out of direct sun.
2. Refer to Forest Service Health & Safety Handbook, OSHA, NFPA, and local direction.

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Check for rust, dents, punctures, broken valves, and weak valve handle. Verify handle type to ensure that tank meets current specifications for “OPD” valve
  2. Confirm test date on propane tank. See link to “Requalification Guidance for Propane Cylinders” under Reference.
  3. Return to stock if unused and recertification is valid.
  4. Refurbish item if tank is undamaged.
  5. Dispose of item if unable to refurbish.

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Testing for performance

  1. Apply soapy water to valve area, watch for bubbles indicating leaks.
  2. If leaks are detected, tag immediately for repair or remove from service.
  3. Safely dispose of tank contents per local HAZMAT disposal policy. Deliver tank to local LPG provider for tank testing, repairs, or disposal.

B. Cleaning

  • Power wash tank and let dry.

C. Repair

  1. Replace any broken handles.
  2. Ensure warning labels are visible and replace as necessary. Cylinders must be marked in accordance with NFPA 704 when used in industrial or commercial applications using labels: HZ-116 or CYL 3 in 1.
  3. A painted stencil or decal reading “NOT FOR INDOOR USE” must be located in a highly visible location on the propane tank with red lettering at least 3/4 inches tall in size.
  4. Install plastic cap or plug in valve opening if missing.
  5. All other repair will be done by and authorized facility.
  6. Follow local cache protocols for refilling empty tanks.

D. Repackaging

  1. Ensure valve is in the “OFF” position before transporting.
  2. Place on pallets and secure with wrap or ties to ensure tanks do not fall or tip over. 

 

NWCG Latest Announcements

NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Chainsaw Operations, PMS 212, and Next Generation Position Task Book for Basic Faller Are Now Available

Date: April 14, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Hazard Tree and Tree Felling Subcommittee

The updated NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Chainsaw Operations, PMS 212, and NWCG Position Task Book for Basic Faller (FAL3), PMS 311-19 are now available.

The NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Chainsaw Operations, PMS 212 includes position standards designed to be used in conjunction with the Next Generation Position Task Book (Next Gen PTB). The Next Gen PTB for Basic Faller (FAL3) includes an evaluation guide with suggested rating elements to consider when assessing trainees.

References:

NWCG Standards For Wildland Fire Chainsaw Operations, PMS 212

NWCG Position Task Book for Basic Faller (FAL3), PMS 311-119

NWCG Basic Faller (FAL3)

RMC Memo 25-01: Summary of Updates to Safety Officer Positions

Date: April 9, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
RMC Member Eric Fransted

The Risk Management Committee (RMC) serves as the position steward for all Safety Officer incident positions and continues to improve position standards, training, and naming conventions. The implementation of Complex Incident Management (CIM) required changes to position titles. RMC collaborated with the NWCG Incident Position Standards Committee (IPSC) to propose and implement these updates. 

References:

RMC Memo 25-01: Summary of Updates to Safety Officer Positions 

NWCG Position Catalog

Updated, NWCG Guide to Wildland Fire Origin and Cause Determination, PMS 412

Date: April 8, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Wildland Fire Investigation Subcommittee

PMS 412 provides guidance for wildland fire investigations. This guide outlines recommended procedures, practices, techniques, and methods to promote a systematic approach. The last update to this publication was in 2016.

References:

NWCG Guide to Wildland Fire Origin and Cause Determination PMS 412

Updated NWCG Standards for Airtanker Base Operations, PMS 508

Date: March 31, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Airtanker Base Operations Unit

The updated NWCG Standards for Airtanker Base Operations (SABO), PMS 508 standardizes operations and procedures at interagency airtanker bases to ensure safe, efficient, and effective operations in support of interagency goals and objectives.

References:

NWCG Standards for Airtanker Base Operations, PMS 508