Salvage Activities

Scope

This Operational Guideline covers salvage activities associated with firefighting or similar operations.

Fundamental Protocols underpin the actions of all NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) members and must be adhered to at all times. They outline the Principles of being an RFS member and provide guidance on conduct to support the safety and wellbeing of members.

Guiding Principles

Salvage activities include any actions performed to minimise or repair the damage from a fire/incident or fire/incident control operations.

• Salvage activities typically include:
  • Moving, covering, or protecting goods threatened by fire, smoke or water;
  • Using hoses in such a way as to minimise water damage;
  • Control of water accumulation and runoff;
  • Using “clean” firefighting agents (e.g., CO²) and techniques on sensitive items;
  • Cleaning up and preventing corrosion from fire products;
  • Protecting and securing items of particular value; and/or
  • Securing the building after the incident.
• Salvage activities may be commenced as soon as rescue activities have been completed and when sufficient, appropriate resources are at the scene.

Special Considerations

• Whilst conducting operations, remain vigilant for risks involving structural collapse and hazardous trees.
• Members must wear the appropriate personal protective clothing and equipment (PPC/PPE) correctly.
• During salvage or similar activities, use safety lines to secure persons working in unguarded, elevated positions (e.g., on a sloping roof). Tie off or securely foot ladders when in use.
• Salvage activities must not interfere with fire cause determination. If a fire is suspicious or the cause is unknown, salvage operations will need to be limited to prevent loss of evidence.

Related Information

• OP 1.2.7 - Working on Roofs
• RFS OPG - Hazardous Trees
• RFS OPG - Structural Fires