UL Canada Publishes Second Edition of Auto Fire Fighting Standard

December 16, 2004

TORONTO—Underwriters' Laboratories of Canada published the second edition of the Nation Standard of Canada CAN/ULC-S515-04 - Automobile Fire Fighting Apparatus.

The standard defines the minimum performance requirements for new automobile fire fighting apparatus such as pumpers, water tank trucks, ladder trucks, aerial devices and combinations of these, used for structural fire fighting in the municipal fire service. It also ensures the safety and quality of the fire trucks for those relying on public fire protection equipment and systems, according to UL Canada.

Changes include:

• Aluminum and other alloy ladders are now accepted with a requirement for a heat label.
• An expanded mix of apparatus and ladder requirements.
• The provision for emergency engine shutdown system is no longer mandatory. While optional, it requires certification and testing if ordered.
• The standard is aligned with key provisions of NFPA 1901-2003.
• A Canadian road test requirement, including acceleration and brake tests.

Source: Underwriters' Laboratory of Canada.