The Australian Fire Service Medal was established by Her Majesty the Queen in 1988 to recognise distinguished service by members of Australian fire services.

The Medal is part of the Australian Honours system. Recipients of this award are entitled to use the post-nominals AFSM.

In the Australia Day Honours 2006, medals were awarded to the following members of the NSW Fire Brigades:

Assistant Commissioner Murray Kear AFSM

Captain Barry Gerrard AFSM

Congratulations are extended to these members on their well-deserved awards.

Contact Officer: Superintendent Peter X Stathis, Professional Standards and Conduct Officer, (02) 9265 2826

File Reference: CHO/00038

PROCEDURE

Radio codes for AFA false alarms

This instruction replaces Table 5C, AFA stop codes, of Standard Operational Guideline 2.5, Standard radio codes, and should be read in conjunction with In Orders 2004/6, Managing false alarms.

1. Introduction

The 700 series radio codes have been revised.

The 700 series radio codes identify automatic fire alarm (AFA) false alarm types. These codes are used by NSWFB Officers in Charge to send Stop messages to a Communication Centre at the conclusion of incidents involving AFA-reported false alarms.

The changes add four codes and retire 16 codes (a net reduction of 12 codes) making a new total of 27 codes (previously 39 codes).

The new code series is effective from 7 February 2006, 1000 hrs. A new laminated sheet of the AFA false alarm stop codes, Version C, rescinding the November 2003 issue, is currently being distributed to all stations.

The 700 codes were revised to:

· better describe conditions found at an incident

· reflect the fact that with completion of migration of fire alarm monitoring to third party service providers the NSWFB no longer performs alarm monitoring

· align with the national AIRS standard

· improve false alarm reporting including future electronic AIRS reporting, and

· assist the NSWFB’s false alarm reduction program.

2. Using the 700 codes

2.1 Attending Officers in Charge will continue to use the 700 series codes.

2.2 ComCen Operators will continue to enter 700 codes into the FireCAD system.

2.3 Attending Officers in Charge must transmit the correct code to describe their findings at an incident.

2.4 Failure to transmit the correct code means that underlying problems with protected premises’ alarm systems will not be identified and initiatives of the False Alarm Reduction Unit will be hampered.

2.5 The charge status of each code as shown on the code table is indicative only. Most codes are chargeable but various factors determine the final charge levied against premises, including standard leniencies routinely applied by the billing system.

2.6 The Commissioner has discretion to waive false alarm charges. A waiver may be granted where the premises undertakes an initiative to manage or reduce the incidence of AFA false alarms.

3. Cooking fumes – false alarm or fire?

The Officer in Charge at an incident in which an AFA was activated by cooking fumes (such as burnt toast) must make a determination as to whether that alarm is a false alarm or an actual fire. The distinction is made as follows:

· If the cooking fumes occur with flaming it is an actual fire. This is the case whether or not there has been damage to the device causing the flaming (such as a toaster) and whether or not the flame has spread. At the end of such an incident send a Stop message including a spoken description of the fire. On return to station the correct code to be entered into the AIRS report is either code 121 (no fire spread) or codes 110-129 (with fire spread).

· If the cooking fumes occur without flaming it is a false alarm. The AFA activation is considered avoidable by appropriate design or management by the premises owner or occupier. At the end of such an incident send a Stop message which will include the 756 code description of the false alarm (simulated conditions with no fire – cooking fumes). On return to station this 700 code will have been entered automatically into the AIRS report.

4. AFA-reported false alarms that cannot be classified

If an AFA-reported false alarm cannot be classified according to a 700 code, send a spoken Stop message rather than a false alarm code. This will ensure that no false alarm charge is incurred.

5. False alarm stop codes for automatic fire alarms

CODE	DESCRIPTION	charge status
	AFA FALSE ALARMS – OTHER
700	AFA false alarm – insufficient information to classify further	Chargeable
702	Alarm operated due to extreme weather conditions – storm conditions, lightning, thunder, heat, etc	Non-Chargeable
706	Council or water supply authority causes pressure fluctuation through mains system	Non-Chargeable
707	Alarm operated due to power surge/spike or short circuit	Non-Chargeable
	MALICIOUS/MISCHIEVOUS FALSE ALARMS
711	Malicious false alarm – includes malicious activation of Break Glass Alarm or Manual Control Point	Chargeable
	SUSPECTED MALFUNCTIONS
734	Sprinkler suspected malfunction – includes water pressure loss and equipment fault	Chargeable
735	Smoke detector suspected malfunction – includes continuous or intermittent fault in detector, wiring or FIP	Chargeable
736	Heat detector suspected malfunction – includes continuous or intermittent fault in detector, wiring or FIP	Chargeable
738	Alarm system suspected malfunction – includes fault in wiring, alarm panel, inadequate maintenance, etc	Chargeable
739	Alarm system suspected malfunction – not classified above	Chargeable
	SUSPECTED MALFUNCTIONS IN PRIVATE ALARM SYSTEM
745	False alarms generated from a non-AFASP monitored system – domestic & residential premises, e.g. alarm bell ringing	Chargeable
746	False alarms generated from a non-AFASP monitored system – commercial premises, e.g. alarm bell ringing	Chargeable
	SIMULATED CONDITIONS WITH NO FIRE
752	Heat detector operated – no fire – heat from other location	Chargeable
754	Smoke detector operated – no fire – smoke from other location – internal smoke	Chargeable
755	Smoke detector operated – no fire – smoke from other location – external smoke	Non-Chargeable
756	Cooking fumes – toast, foodstuffs, etc	Chargeable
758	Simulated conditions – incense, candles, sparklers, smoke machine, etc	Chargeable
759	Simulated conditions – no fire – not classified above	Chargeable
	UNINTENTIONAL ALARMS – NOT INVOLVING A SUSPECTED MALFUNCTION
762	Accidental operation of alarm – includes activation of Break Glass Alarm or Manual Control Point	Non-Chargeable
763	Failure to notify of test	Chargeable
764	Incorrect test by servicing company personnel	Chargeable
765	Alarm activation due to workers/occupier activities	Chargeable
766	Alarm activation due to poor building maintenance – dust, cobwebs, insects, etc	Chargeable
767	Alarm activation due to aerosol use – hair spray, insecticides, etc	Chargeable
768	Alarm activation due to steam – shower, bath, sauna, steam room, etc	Chargeable
	MONITORED ALARM SYSTEM – FIRE INDICATOR PANEL
772	Fire Indicator Panel activated, Alarm Signalling Equipment not activated	Chargeable
773	Fire Indicator Panel not activated, Alarm Signalling Equipment activated	Chargeable

Contact Officer: Superintendent Warwick Isemonger, Manager AFA False Alarm Reduction Unit, (02) 9588 2833

File References: CHO/08379, CHO/05822, C04/00082, and C09/00030

ADMINISTRATIVE AND TECHNICAL SUPPORT STAFF NOTICES

Vacancy

Regional Administrative Services Coordinator, Region West, Clerk 5/6

Pos No: 792010. Clerk Grade 5/6. Harris Park. Permanent full-time. Total remuneration package valued to $68,814 pa, including salary (range $56,516 - $62,360), employer’s contribution to superannuation and leave loading.

Duties: Supervise the provision of administrative, financial and employee services to the Regional Management Team, regional and zone staff to ensure these services are carried out efficiently and effectively meeting regional and corporate objectives, in accordance with NSWFB policies and procedures.

Selection criteria: Sound knowledge and experience in the interpretation and application of various human resource, administrative and payroll policies, procedures, legislation, awards and conditions of employment. Extensive experience in interpreting payroll and accounting data, providing reports and recommendations. Demonstrated experience in supervision or leadership of a multi-skilled team. Superior written and oral communication skills. Ability to provide service delivery to a decentralised organisation. Demonstrated interpersonal skills, including experience in performance management, counselling and negotiation skills. Demonstrated ability to plan, organise and coordinate a diverse range of functions in a time critical environment. Demonstrated computer literacy including computerised payroll and accounting systems, word processing and spreadsheet operations. Common selection criteria also apply.

Enquiries: Geoff Court, (02) 9895 4617, geoffrey.court@fire.nsw.gov.au

Information packages: Geoff Court, (02) 9895 4617, geoffrey.court@fire.nsw.gov.au

Applications to: Human Resources Manager, Region West Office, NSW Fire Brigades, PO Box H4, Harris Park NSW 2150 or online at www.jobs.nsw.gov.au. Electronic applications must be MS Word compatible.

Closing date: 17 February 2006

PERMANENT FIREFIGHTERS NOTICES

Vacancies

Deputy Manager, Hazmat Technical/Servicing

Applications are invited from operational personnel for the position of Deputy Manager Hazmat, Technical/Servicing, Operational Support Level 3, at Greenacre.

An information package should be obtained before submitting an application. Applications must address all the selection criteria.

Enquiries: Superintendent Rob McNeil, Manager Hazardous Materials Response Unit, (02) 9742 7322

Information packages: Roz Cedres, State Operations, (02) 9318 4351

Applications to: Human Resources Manager Alexandria, NSW Fire Brigades, 189 Wyndham Street, Alexandria NSW 2015

Closing date: 17 March 2006

File reference: CHO/01522

Hazmat Technical Officer C

Applications are invited from operational personnel for the position of Hazmat Technical Officer C, Operational Support Level 2, at Greenacre.

An information package should be obtained before submitting an application. Applications must address all the selection criteria.

Enquiries: Superintendent Rob McNeil, Manager Hazardous Materials Response Unit, (02) 9742 7322

Information Packages: Roz Cedres, State Operations, (02) 9318 4351

Applications to: Human Resources Manager Alexandria, NSW Fire Brigades, 189 Wyndham Street, Alexandria NSW 2015

Closing date: 17 March 2006

File reference: CHO/01522

Station Commander Orange

Applications are invited from officers holding the rank of Station Officer for the position of Station Commander at 412 Station, Orange, Zone West 3, working the 10/14 roster.

An ‘Application for Officer Transfer to Country Service’ form and an information package should be obtained before submitting an application. Applications must address all the selection criteria.

The successful applicant may apply for the conditions contained in Clause 29 of the Crown Employees (NSW Fire Brigades Firefighting Staff) Award 2005. Contact the Manager Operational Personnel for inquiries on Award conditions and any entitlements.

Enquiries: Superintendent Anthony Grant, Zone Commander West 3,

(02) 4782 2568

Information packages: Administrative Services Coordinator, West, (02) 9895 4630

Applications to: Regional Human Resources Manager, Region West Office, NSW Fire Brigades, PO Box H4, Harris Park NSW 2150

Closing date: 17 March 2006

File reference: WES/00448

Appointments

The following appointments are subject to the provisions of the Government and Related Employees Appeal Tribunal Act 1980. In some cases the maximum salary of the position may exceed the limit under which an appeal may be made to GREAT. The 21 day period for appeal commences on the date of this In Order.

Position	No	Name	Date of Decision
Manager Structural Fire Training, OS3	6670	J McDonough	23/1/2006
Instructor Structural Firefighting, OS2	6489	G Brisbourne	23/1/2006
Country Inspector West 3	6106	S Bearman	27/1/2006

Recruit Firefighters

Correction

The appointment of 8980 R Shaw as a Recruit Firefighter in In Orders 2006/2 should have read 8990 R Shaw.

_________________________

Promotions

Firefighter Level 4 to Qualified Firefighter

Anniversary date Promotion date

8259 B Giles 2 November 2005 2 November 2005

8269 D Valentine 25 January 2006 25 January 2006

8270 N King 25 January 2006 25 January 2006

8272 G Mangan 25 January 2006 25 January 2006

8273 S Murray 25 January 2006 25 January 2006

8280 P Mackney 25 January 2006 25 January 2006

8281 D Hall 25 January 2006 25 January 2006

8282 S Jones 25 January 2006 25 January 2006

8283 M Hunter 25 January 2006 25 January 2006

8285 A Campbell 25 January 2006 25 January 2006

8287 R Joshua 25 January 2006 25 January 2006

8288 M Cahill 25 January 2006 25 January 2006

8289 E Cooper 25 January 2006 25 January 2006

8290 J Styles 25 January 2006 25 January 2006

8291 T Charlesworth 25 January 2006 25 January 2006

8292 R Harris 25 January 2006 25 January 2006

8294 M Campbell 25 January 2006 25 January 2006

8297 G Berry 25 January 2006 25 January 2006

8770 C Lyons 29 October 2005 29 October 2005

Firefighter Level 3 to Firefighter Level 4

Anniversary date Promotion date

8376 D Armour 17 October 2005 24 October 2005

8406 R Janzen 13 December 2005 13 December 2005

8407 A Madden 13 December 2005 13 December 2005

8423 M McDonald 24 January 2006 24 January 2006

8426 S Noakes 24 January 2006 24 January 2006

8427 P Moxham 24 January 2006 24 January 2006

8428 M Feledy 24 January 2006 24 January 2006

8429 D O’Brien 24 January 2006 24 January 2006

8431 J Kirkegard 24 January 2006 24 January 2006

8433 J Anthony 24 January 2006 24 January 2006

8435 M Turner 24 January 2006 24 January 2006

8437 J Tout 24 January 2006 24 January 2006

8439 I Russell 24 January 2006 24 January 2006

8440 J Allan 24 January 2006 24 January 2006

8441 M Sheather 24 January 2006 24 January 2006

8442 T Wiggins 24 January 2006 24 January 2006

Firefighter Level 2 to Firefighter Level 3

Anniversary date Promotion date

8615 S Scott 17 October 2005 17 October 2005

8618 K Moore 17 October 2005 17 October 2005

8676 N Buchanan 28 November 2005 28 November 2005

8687 R Ayoub 28 November 2005 28 November 2005

8665 A Petelevitch 28 November 2005 5 December 2005

Firefighter Level 1 to Firefighter Level 2

Anniversary date Promotion date

8757 A Crowe 12 November 2005 12 November 2005

8773 T Sullivan 7 January 2006 7 January 2006

8788 A Riepma 7 January 2006 7 January 2006

Resignation

8507 Firefighter L Bergersen 24 January 2006

RETAINED FIREFIGHTERS NOTICES

New members appointed to Brigades

J A Brown Lithgow 1 January 2006

K Danaher Lithgow 1 January 2006

S Ball Molong 1 January 2006

K J Brown Katoomba 15 January 2006

L Schepisi Raymond Terrace 15 January 2006

D R Pye Wauchope 15 January 2006

T K Goodlet Leura 1 February 2006

D R Thurlow Lithgow 1 February 2006

I J Craig Boolaroo 1 February 2006

P McKay Budgewoi 1 February 2006

P Gregory Doyalson 1 February 2006

J Ahern Murrurundi 1 February 2006

M Anderson Raymond Terrace 1 February 2006

B F Jackson Stockton 1 February 2006

G Lewis Berrigan 1 February 2006

Appointed to ranks

RETF P Saxby Dungog Deputy Captain 1 February 2006

DCAPT I Dickson Bega Captain 1 February 2006

RETF W Rendall Young Deputy Captain 1 February 2006

These appointments are subject to the provisions of the Government and Related Employees Appeal Tribunal Act 1980. The 21 day period for appeal commences from the date of this In Order.

Transfers

RETF G O L’Estrange Woolgoolga to Tamworth 15 January 2006

RETF M Brooker Peak Hill Goulburn 15 January 2006

Resignations

RETF J A Field Blackheath 18 August 2005

RETF S D Breda Brunswick Heads 27 October 2005

RETF P Allaway Kurri Kurri 17 November 2005

RETF C M Rutter Murrurundi 19 November 2005

RETF D P Ryan Brewarrina 26 November 2005

RETF D Aikman Thirroul 26 November 2005

RETF R K Pritchard Denman 30 November 2005

RETF K R Jones Raymond Terrace 30 November 2005

RETF D L Sulis Cardiff 1 December 2005

RETF I J Watson Raymond Terrace 15 December 2005

RETF B J Wilson Raymond Terrace 18 December 2005

RETF P J Kremer Windale 23 December 2005

RETF G J Mitchell Broken Hill South 23 December 2005

RETF P A Ayre Werris Creek 23 December 2005

RETF B H Montgomery Merrylands 31 December 2005

DCAPT G T Ingram Bowraville 31 December 2005

RETF W R Krantzcke Port Macquarie 3 January 2006

RETF R A McIntosh Picton 5 January 2006

RETF D S Dennis Richmond 10 January 2006

RETF D J Brown Camden 15 January 2006

RETF N R Johnson Moree 15 January 2006

Retirements

RETF F Miller Scone 21 October 2005

RETF R T Manning Casino 1 December 2005

RETF R G Beeby The Entrance 14 December 2005

RETF M G Passlow Warragamba 20 December 2005

RETF G J Davis Wyoming 23 December 2005

Transferred to Honorary List

RETF F Miller Scone 22 October 2005

RETF R T Manning Casino 2 December 2005

RETF G J Davis Wyoming 24 December 2005

Greg Mullins AFSM

Commissioner

3 February 2006