Operate Pumps Training

• Accessing static and reticulated water supplies
• Operating a pump including using gauges, controls, positioning and priming
• Monitoring levels of water in appliance tank
• Preparing pump to deliver water
• Providing and maintaining water supply to branch operators
• Using ancillary equipment to support pump operations
• Concluding pump operations

On successful completion of this program, participants will be awarded the following Nationally Recognised Units of Competency:

• PUAFIR309 Operate Pumps

Pre-Requisites:

• PUAEQU001 Prepare, maintain and test response equipment

And one of the following four units:

• PUAFIR203 Respond to urban fire: OR
• PUAFIR220 Respond to isolated structure fire: OR
• PUAFIR204 Respond to wildfire: OR
• PUAFIR205 Respond to aviation incident (specialist

Where the pre-requisite evidence, in the form of a Statement or Attainment or USI Transcript, is not provided, FSA will issue a Certificate of Attendance.

FSA Entry Requirements:

• A verifiable USI
• Fitness level to participate
• Enclosed footwear & PPE
• Sufficient digital, language, literacy and numeracy skills to complete the course
• Provision of evidence meeting the unit of competency pre-requisites, as listed above.

Physical Requirements:

This course requires a very high level of physical fitness, stamina, grip strength, and mobility, as all tasks are completed in full firefighting gear under simulated operational conditions.

To successfully complete this course, you will need to be physically able to:

• Wear full firefighting PPE for extended periods.
• Walk, bend, and stoop to complete pump and hose inspections.
• Connect and operate hoses, suction lines, valves, and couplings.
• Lift and carry portable pumps (~20–25kg, team lift) and other ancillary equipment.
• Operate pumps from tank, static, reticulated, and relay water supplies.
• Produce firefighting foam using correct equipment.
• Replace damaged hoses and troubleshoot pump operations.
• Shut down, clean, and stow pumps and equipment after use.

Key overall physical demands:

• Very high stamina and endurance – operating in full PPE during extended pumping tasks
• Manual handling – hoses, suction lengths, couplings, foam equipment, portable pumps (~20–25kg)
• Upper body strength and grip – hose coupling, pump operation, foam handling
• Mobility and agility – bending, stooping, kneeling, positioning equipment in variable environments
• Dexterity – operating valves, gauges, radios, and documentation
• Tolerance – PPE, heat, water spray, noise, and high-stress simulated fireground conditions