Apparatus: The Shops Michael Huber
On October 16, 2019, the first Multijurisdictional Apparatus Group (MJAG) meeting was held in a small classroom in Baltimore County, Maryland. MJAG could have been another forgotten fire service acronym or just another meeting consuming valuable time, but fortunately MJAG is different, worthwhile, and making a positive impact.
Decision makers; logistics leaders; safety representatives; and, most importantly, skilled mechanics shared knowledge and experiences relative to apparatus and equipment. From coolant hoses that commonly fail to fleet design and management, members from several jurisdictions came together to share the good, the bad, and the ugly of one of the most critical tools we have—apparatus.
The initial invite was sent to jurisdictions near Baltimore County, including agencies in Maryland; northern Virginia; and Washington, D.C., to have various jurisdictions in the same room to discuss experiences with manufacturers and vendors; share information on apparatus and equipment design, repair, and maintenance; and open jurisdictional boundaries in an effort to increase global awareness in the industry by fostering communication that would allow all stakeholders to be part of a problem-solving experience.
After the initial ice-breaker introduction, the room loosened up and the chatter began. Topics included the following:
- Acquisition.
- Who is buying what and why?
- What purchases are upcoming?
- How will this will impact other jurisdictions?
- Apparatus manufacturers and vendors.
- Problems/good experiences.
- Dealer facilities.
- Warranties.
- Maintenance/repair.
- Intervals.
- Parts: inventory/acquisition/problem solving.
- Trends in repairs.
- Resolutions to common problems.
- Fleet management.
- What is the fleet?
- Apparatus to technician ratio.
- How is the fleet managed relative to maintenance and repair?
- Reserve storage.
- Field accountability.
- Apparatus life cycle.
- Telematics.
- What is available?
- Is it worth the cost
- EVTs.
- Who requires certification?
- How do mechanics obtain new and updated training?
- National Fire Protection (NFPA) 1900, Standard for Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Vehicles, Automotive Fire Apparatus, Wildland Fire Apparatus, and Automotive Ambulances, series.
- Jurisdictions that take exceptions and why.
- Speculation on revision information.
- How does the NFPA impact the authority having jurisdiction’s inspection, maintenance, testing, and retirement of in-service emergency vehicles for primary and reserve fleets?
A few hours later, MJAG was no longer just an acronym or an idea. It was formally established as a productive apparatus and equipment task force. Currently, MJAG comprises multiple jurisdictions from North Carolina to New York and as far away as Utah. The group welcomes new agencies that are interested in joining the MJAG team, where apparatus and equipment knowledge is shared, networks are built, problems are solved, and voices are heard.
The importance of jurisdictions working together, whether on a local, national, or global level, cannot be overstated. Collaboration among jurisdictions fosters a range of benefits that contribute to overall fire department well-being.
Effective networking provides numerous advantages that contribute to the success and growth of fire mechanics in their careers. Here are some key reasons networking is important:
- Knowledge sharing: Networking allows us to exchange information, best practices, and industry updates with peers.
- Professional development: Connecting with professionals in the field provides opportunities for continuous learning and professional development.
- Access to resources: Networking expands the pool of resources available to mechanics and fleet managers. This can include access to specialized tools, equipment, materials, and contacts.
- Collaborative opportunities: Building a network opens doors to collaborative opportunities. Industry insiders encounter projects or challenges that require a multidisciplinary approach, and having a network of professionals with diverse skills can lead to successful collaborations.
- Industry visibility: Active participation in professional networks enhances your visibility within the industry. Being known and respected by peers and vendors can contribute to career enhancement and business success.
- Problem solving and support: Having a group of peers allows you to seek advice and support when facing complex technical challenges. Problem solving within the group can lead to innovative solutions and improved service delivery.
MJAG meets quarterly. The platform is usually a Zoom meeting, and the duration is about an hour. Agency representatives who are primarily responsible for the management, maintenance/repair, and design who would like to participate can e-mail [email protected] for more information.
MICHAEL HUBER is a fire apparatus driver/operator and fire apparatus fleet manager for the Baltimore County (MD) Fire Department.
