In the last installment of the Apparatus Architect (July 2002) we discussed the importance of proper pump panel design and layout. This area, set aside for the plumbing and instrumentation of the apparatus, has a large impact on the ability of the engine company chauffeur to insure a continuous and reliable supply of water on the fireground. Careful consideration of the pump panel layout during the design process will improve the overall operation and performance for the engine company crew, as well as enhance safety for all personnel.

With this article we will review some of the considerations when designing the body compartments and storage areas on the pumper. If you were to evaluate the relative cost of the enclosed compartments on a pumper, it would become apparent that this area is some of the most expensive real estate that you can purchase. A fairly standard Class A pumper produced on a custom chassis can easily cost $350,000 to $375,000.

For the past several years, the fire apparatus industry has experienced cost increases that follow the normal pace of inflation. With these thoughts in mind, it is important that we engineer and plan out what tool and equipment space will be required for the compartments, as well as laying out the proper space for our attack and supply lines on the apparatus.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1901 standard requires a minimum of 40 cubic feet of enclosed compartment space and 30 cubic feet of storage space for supply line on a pumper. In addition, the apparatus must have sufficient axle and carrying capacity for 2,000 pounds of equipment plus the required hose load specified by the fire department.

Photo by Tom Shand The Nanuet, NY, Fire Department set up its new American LaFrance pumper to carry standard engine company equipment as well as some truck and rescue equipment. Careful planning in the design phase can result in layouts like this rig.

Let's suppose that your fire department is designing a rescue engine that is going to replace an older pumper and small rescue truck. Your apparatus committee must carefully evaluate your anticipated equipment storage requirements for the new apparatus. This should include the development of the proposed equipment inventory, which will detail the equipment size and weight. Gathering this information will assist the committee in guiding them through the design of the body compartments.