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Los Angeles City Fire Department
Training Bulletin # 67
Date of Issue 3-94 Revision Date
HURST RESCUE TOOL
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. HURST RESCUE TOOL
II. VEHICLE CONSTRUCTION
III. OPERATING PROCEDURES
IV. MAINTENANCE
V. HEAVY RESCUE
VI. SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS

Training Bulletin No. 67
March, 1994
Page 1
INTRODUCTION
The Hurst Rescue Tool is a hydraulically powered device used
specifically for vehicle extrications and generally for other heavy
rescue applications. It is capable of developing thousands of pounds
of pressure to pull, cut, spread or lift to effect a rescue operation.
Presently, the Los Angeles City Fire Department employs one brand of
rescue tool manufactured by the Hurst Company:
I. HURST RESCUE TOOL
The Hurst Rescue Tool is comprised of:
A. Power Unit - Two models with different specifications are
depicted on Page 2 (Photos 1 and 2).
The Power Unit is comprised of an engine, hydraulic pump, and
cage.
The engine is a Briggs and Stratton, 4 or 5 horsepower, 4cycle,
air-cooled, industrial gasoline engine. The hydraulic
pump is a positive displacement type pump made by "Hale." It
is rated at 10,000 psi. It will deliver an operating pressure
of 5,000 psi through an internal relief valve.
The pump draws hydraulic fluid from a reservoir with a
capacity of four or seven quarts. The reservoir is located
directly under the engine. The fluid is pumped through a
"dump valve", through the hoses, to the jaws, spreader,
cutting or ram set units.
NOTE: Members using the Hurst Rescue Tool should be aware
of the respective hydraulic oil reservoir capacity.
During operations where many attachments are used in
series, it may be necessary to add fluid to the four
quart capacity model. Conversely, it is necessary to
consider recovery of the fluid that will overflow the
hydraulic oil tank when these attachments are
retracted.
The cage is designed to carry and protect the Power Unit,
hydraulic pump, and reservoir. It is made of stainless steel
tubing approximately 3/4 inches in diameter. The average
total weight of the power unit is 65 pounds.

Training Bulletin No. 67
March, 1994
Page 2
PHOTO 1
POWER UNIT: 4-CYCLE, 4 HP
PHOTO 2
LARGER POWER UNIT: 4-CYCLE, 5 HP

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March, 1994
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In Photo 3 the arrow denotes the primer. In the larger model power
unit the primer button needs to be pushed three to four times before
starting.
PHOTO 3
B. The Spreaders (Jaws) [Photo 4)
The Spreader Unit is operated by one member with a thumb control
valve called a "dead man" switch. Currently, there is one model
made by "Hurst" assigned to Fire Companies. The model number is
JL-32B.
• Model JL-32B is a newer model. It has an opening force of 18,000
pounds at the tips, and a closing force of 18,800 pounds at the
tips. The opening and closing time (without a load) is 11
seconds. Maximum opening distance between the tips is 32 inches.
Total weight of this unit is 70 pounds.
Both spreader unit models consist of a body and arms made of
aluminum alloy forging.

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March, 1994
Page 4
PHOTO 4
HURST SPREADER
There are two shackles provided for the spreader tips. They are
equipped with a "grab hook" C-8 rated to 13,000 pounds minimum
working strength. Shackles shall be attached to the Jaws by the use
of "Fas-Pins" and shall be applied without removing the tips.
The shackles are used to secure the chains to the tool when
performing an operation such as pulling the steering wheel away
from the driver's space.
There is a tool box provided for storing and carrying these
accessories.

Training Bulletin No. 67
March, 1994
Page 5
C. Hurst Cutting Unit (Photo 5)
The Cutting Unit Model JL-150 has a cutting force of 25 000 pounds at
the blade's center. At the base of the cutter blades is a "Cable
Cutter" with a cutting force of 70,000 pounds. The cutter has a maximum
opening travel of 7.25 inches.
The cutting unit body assembly is made of an aluminum alloy forging.
Total weight of this unit is approximately 36 pounds.
PHOTO 5
HURST CUTTING UNIT

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March, 1994
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D. Hurst Ram Set (Photo 6)
The Hurst Rams are utilized as an addition to the Spreader and
Cutter. They can be used for pushing, pulling, stabilizing,
supporting, and shoring. Three different lengths can be utilized.
They are the 15-inch (JL-20B), 23-inch (JL-30B), and the 35-inch
(JL-60B).
Ram cylinders are made of aluminum alloy with the piston rod
constructed of chrome plated hardened steel. This provides high
tensile strength and eliminates side load distortion. The "dead man"
control valve is used to move the piston in and out. It has a dual
check valve to improve load holding capability.
Model JL-20B in the closed position is 15-inches in length, when
fully extended will reach 22-inches. It has a pushing force of
15,000 pounds and weighs 21 pounds with fluid and connectors.
NOTE: The JL-20B will only extend (push) and DOES NOT have the
capability to provide pulling force when retracting.
Model JL-30B and JL-60B will provide a pushing force of 15,000
pounds and a pulling force of 6,000 pounds. The JL-30B closed is 23inches
with an extension length of 36 inches. JL-60B closed is 35inches
with an extension length of 60-inches.
PHOTO 6
HURST RAM SETS

Training Bulletin No. 67
March, 1994
Page 7
Included with the Ram Sets are Ram accessories carried in a case for
storage (Photo 7). These attachments are made of investment cast alloy
steel and attach to the Rams by the use of "Fas-Pins." This package
contains the following:
l. Conical Point: Makes a quick access hole to prepare an
opening for spreading tools.
2. Base Plate: Permits larger bearing surface to better distribute
forces and minimize surface penetration and indentation.
3. "V" Block: Secures gripping of uneven or round surfaces, such as
steering column shafts and pipes.
4. Wedge: Used for lifting, separating, cutting, dividing.
5. Jaws Adapter: Allows connection of any attachment to 32-B spreaders.
6. Fas-Pins: For quick attachment hookup.
PHOTO 7
RAM SET ACCESSORIES

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March, 1994
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E. Hoses and Couplings
The Hurst Rescue Tool is provided with three sections of high pressure
hose. Each section is 16 feet in length and is rated at 20,000 psi
burst pressure. The inside diameter of the hose is 1/4 inch.
The hose has a non-perforated polyurethane cover for easy maintenance.
The Power Unit, the Jaws, and the cutters have pre-attached sections of
hose 12 to 16 inches in length with spring protectors and quick
disconnect couplings.
The couplings attached to the hoses are of the "slot and pin" design.
F. Hurst Rescue Tool Spreader Accessories
1. The Tips
The Jaws are equipped with a pair of tips that are held in place by
"Fas-Pins." The outside of the tips are serrated to help prevent
slipping. The tips are interchangeable with either arm and are made
of investment cast heat treated steel.
2. Pulling Assembly
Each "Hurst" Tool is provided with three chains; one 12 feet long
and two 6 feet long. All chains have a minimum rated working load of
13,000 pounds (C-8 rated chain).
Chain I - The 12 foot chain is equipped with a “slide hook" on one
end and a "grab hook" on the other.
Chain II - One of the six foot chains is equipped with "grab hooks"
on both ends.
Chain III - The other six foot chain has one "slide hook" on one end
only.

Training Bulletin No. 67
March, 1994
Page 9
II. VEHICLE CONSTRUCTION
A basic knowledge of vehicle construction is necessary when making an
accurate assessment of extrication problems. This knowledge can save
valuable time and keep your efforts from being misdirected.
1. Frame
Vehicles have a structural framework that provides strength,
stability, and passenger protection. In addition, the framework
provides the basis for the overall shape of the vehicle.
The overall effect frame design will have on your extrication
operation depends upon the configuration of the vehicle after it
crashes. In most extrication operations the frame will be of great
value when used as a strong point to brace the jaws for pushing.
Don't forget the underside of the vehicle. The axle and leaf spring
brackets make good anchor points for any pulling operation.
2. Shoulder Harness Mounting Brackets
On vehicles equipped with shoulder harness seat belts, there will
be a sturdy metal plate supporting the harness at the roof line.
This plate (three or four inches square) should be avoided when
making cuts with the cutters. The metal on either side of the
mounting brackets will be much easier to cut.
3. Side Impacts Panels
4. Posts
Impact panels are found inside the doors of cars built after 1974.
Using the jaws to pry against these panels in a lengthwise
direction only adds more tension and work for the tool. Basically,
you are trying to pry against the entire side of the vehicle when
moving against these panels. For greater efficiency, work above or
below these panels.
Vehicles get their vertical strength from posts (also referred to
as pillars). Posts are identified alphabetically starting with the
first post that runs in line with the front windshield. This is
referred to as the A-post. As you proceed toward the rear of the
vehicle, the second post is the B-post, the third post is the Cpost.
This terminology holds true regardless of the position of the
vehicle (upside down, on end, etc.).

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March, 1994
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5. Bumpers
6. Doors
Do not attach chains to recoil type safety bumpers. Attached to
these bumpers are hydraulic or mechanical bumper shocks which help
absorb the impact of light collisions. These bumpers, when weakened
by fire or collision, can suddenly and violently spring three to
four inches. This forward motion has enough power to severely
injure someone standing close to the bumper. In addition, the
bumper can interfere with the proper use of the Jaws in a pulling
operation by springing forward causing the premature tightening of
slack in the chains.
In older vehicles, doors often opened on impact ejecting unbelted
passengers and causing serious injuries. In newer vehicles, doors
are designed NOT to open on impact.
7. Latches
A door latch with a cap on the end of a pin (commonly referred to
as "Nader Bolt") was implemented by the American Auto Industry to
help secure doors during impact. Foreign automobiles use a
different type of mechanism built to a similar standard.
Since 1981, these door latches on new vehicles must be able to
withstand a minimum of 5,000 pounds of force. Many times, it is
this latch that gives us the most problems when trying to force a
door open. Try all the simple methods first:
• Unlock doors
• Try the outside door latch handle
• Try the inside door latch handle
On most vehicles equipped with power door locks, the driver's door
has the only manual lock. Be aware that battery power is needed to
activate the locking mechanism of the doors. Leave the battery
connected until the doors have been unlocked. Additionally, some
vehicles have to be placed in "park" before the power locks will
operate.
Familiarizing yourself with a variety of different makes and models
of automobiles will reduce time wasted at an accident.

Training Bulletin No. 67
March, 1994
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8. Hinges
Door hinges come apart in two ways when forced open with the
jaws. Older vehicles have cast metal hinges that snap and come
apart quite easily. On newer vehicles the hinges will most often
pull away from the door frame prior to the hinge actually
breaking. This is a result of the light weight alloy metals used
in the body construction.

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March, 1994
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III. OPERATING PROCEDURES
A. Procedures for Opening a Door (Photos 8 through 11)
Insert the Jaws into the Spreading the Jaws will
Window; firmly seat the push the top of the door
Lower Jaws tip on the top down and out, away from
of the door. Open the tips the B-post, creating an
so the upper tip is resting opening between the door
against the window frame. and the door frame.
PHOTO 8 PHOTO 9

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March, 1994
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The tip of the Jaws can now be inserted into the opening between the Bpost
and the door.
PHOTO 10
Spreading the tips will eventually force the door open at the latch.
NOTE: Photo 11 shows the door latch and “Nader” Bolt exposed.
PHOTO 11

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March, 1994
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B. Procedures for Removing a Door (Photos 12 through 14)
Insert tip of Jaws into top of door jam. Spread the Jaws and
break the top hinge first. This will cause the door to rotate
down and away from passengers and operator.
PHOTO 12
An alternate method is demonstrated in this photo. Insert Jaws
tip from the top of the door jam. Spread Jaws and break the top
hinge first.
PHOTO 13

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March, 1994
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Complete the operation by breaking the bottom hinge and removing
the door.
PHOTO 14
Photo 15 illustrates the Ram Set being utilized to push open a door
from the inside. This method is advantageous when access to the other
side is limited, due to the surroundings. Note that the piston end is
positioned near the Nader Bolt area. The base plate should be
attached and positioned on the B-post for base support. A two member
team is best when utilizing this particular operation.
PHOTO 15

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March, 1994
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C. Procedures For Removing a Roof (Photos 16 through 21)
Using the cutting unit, cut both A-posts as close to the dash as
possible. This will eliminate a large protruding portion of the
post remaining after the roof is folded back.
PHOTO 16
Cut the roof on both sides, forward of the B-post. (Avoid the shoulder
harness fastening plate.) This will allow the roof to be folded.
PHOTO 17

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March, 1994
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PHOTO 18
Use the pickhead of an axe to punch two holes in the windshield or
push the jaw tips through the windshield. (One at top center and
the other at bottom center.) This will allow the tip of the Jaws to
gain a purchase on the window frame.
PHOTO 19

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March, 1994
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Spreading the Jaws will raise the roof and loosen the windshield.
Remove the Jaws and have one member push the windshield (from
inside car) forward. Remove windshield.
PHOTO 20
Fold roof back and secure with rope.
PHOTO 21

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March, 1994
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D. Procedures For PULLING the Steering Column With the Jaws
(Photos 22 and 23)
Spread the Jaws to its maximum extension. Attach the pulling
assembly to the tips.
NOTE: Fast Pins are inserted from the bottom to prevent them
from accidentally being pushed out.
One section of chain should be secured to the underside of the
vehicle. The other section should be wrapped around the steering
column. As the Jaws are closed, the steering column will be lifted
towards the dash.
PHOTO 22

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March, 1994
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PHOTO 23
E. Procedure for Pulling the Steering Column With the Ram Set Photo
24 illustrates the steering column lift, similar to the operation
used with the Jaws Spreader. However, the Jaws Spreader is
substituted with the Ram Set in which the same objective is
accomplished.
NOTE: The closing force of the Ram Set at 6,000 pounds is not
nearly the strength that the Jaws JL-32B at 12,500 and
18,800 pounds can provide during this operation.
PHOTO 24

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March, 1994
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F. Procedure for LIFTING the Steering Column With the Jaws
(Photo 25)
The steering column may be pushed away from the driver seat by
placing one tip against the bottom door frame and the other
securely on the steering column. As the Jaws are opened, the
steering column will be lifted toward the dash.
G. Procedure for LIFTING the Steering Column With the Ram Set
(Photo 26)
The Ram Set can be utilized to lift the steering column up off
the driver of the vehicle. The utilization of the "V" block
attachment is recommended to enhance the purchase on the steering
column.
NOTE: The use of a piece of plywood or base plate on the floor
board is recommended for this operation.
PHOTO 25 PHOTO 26

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March, 1994
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H. Procedures For Moving Seat Awa From The Steering Column
(Photo 27)
The Photo below shows the Hurst Tool cutter being used as a
anchor point for the Jaws. First the cutter must securely pinch
the door frame. Then one tip of the Jaws is placed against the
cutter and the other tip is placed against the frame of the seat.
As the Jaws spread the seat will be forced back.
An alternate method would be to use the A-Post as an anchor
point.
PHOTO 27
An alternate method, Photo 28 illustrates the use of the Hurst
Ram Set when it is necessary to push the vehicle seat to
alleviate pressure and free the passenger.
PHOTO 28

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March, 1994
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IV. MAINTENANCE
A. Power Unit and Assembly
1. Ignition System
Check spark plug. Gap to proper setting (.030). Replace plug, if
necessary. Spark plugs are available at the Supply and
Maintenance Division. One spare should be carried on apparatus.
Check spark plug wire making sure it makes proper contact with
head of spark plug.
2. Starter
Recoil starter. Pull cord slowly out to its limit, check for
fraying at all points along cord. Check security of attaching
screws or bolts.
3. Air Cleaner
Remove paper or foam air cleaner.
• Paper filter is cleaned by brushing or tapping on a firm surface
to remove dirt and debris.
• Foam filter is washed with soapy water, air dried and resoaked
with 30 weight oil.
Install air cleaner assembly.
4. Carburetion - Fuel System
• Check carburetor attaching bolts for security.
• Visually check fuel tank. Look for dirt in bottom of fuel tank;
if found, remove tank, drain, flush and air dry. Install and
refill (DO NOT OVERLOOK POSSIBILITY OF DIRT AND RUST IN THE
FUEL CAN).
• Check engine mounts and bolts on carrying frame for security.
Check for broken mounts, cracks or excessive wear.
• Check throttle assembly for proper operation.

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March, 1994
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5. Oil Reservoir
Check crankcase oil weekly and maintain at the proper dipstick level.
If fluid is needed, use 30 weight oil. A complete oil change is
required every 15 to 20 hours of use.
6. Pump and Hydraulic Reservoir
Dump Valve: Check security of the hose fitting screws or bolts holding
the handle to the valve. Check for smooth operation. Clean and spray
with silicone.
Reservoir: Fill plug should be hand tight. Over tightening will crack
reservoir top. Maintain fluid level within dipstick marks on models
with dipsticks. On models without dipsticks keep filled 1" to 1-1/2"
from top of reservoir. If fluid is needed, add only MCS 2360 or other
hydraulic fluid approved for Hurst Tools.
Avoid getting water on the power unit. Some units do not have seals and
water may enter the tank.
B. Jaw and Cutter Assemblies
1. Main Housing
Inspect housing for any cracks. Visually check for any oil residue
or signs of leakage. If any leakage is found, check couplings and
bolts for tightness.
2. Trigger Assemblies
Clean, dry and spray the complete trigger assembly with silicone
spray. Operate trigger and allow it to snap back to center. The
trigger must self center. Check for fluid leaks. If any are found,
check fittings and allen bolts for security. Retest the trigger
assembly.
3. Tips (Hurst)
Inspect all tips for cracks, chips or any distortion. Any broken or
badly chipped tips shall be sent to the Supply and Maintenance
Division for exchange.
NOTE: Companies having Hurst tools shall retain one set of tips in
quarters for drill purposes. The set of tips that are in the
best condition shall be kept on the tool for emergency use.

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March, 1994
Page 25
4. Attaching Pins
Visually check for cracks or galling. Inspect detent ball for proper
operation. (Push in and see that the spring pressure pushes it back
out.) Use the same procedure on the clevis attaching pins.
5. Arms
Inspect for stress cracks or chips. If there is any visible damage,
contact the Supply and Maintenance Division immediately.
With tool operating, spray all pivot points and pins with silicone
spray. With the tool fully open, clean and dry the piston shaft and
seal area.
C. High Pressure Hoses and Couplings
1. Hoses
Check weekly and after use for cracking, leaks and holes. Clean with
a damp cloth.
2. Couplings
Clean with silicone spray. Check for proper operation. Because of
the thermal expansion of warm hydraulic fluid, it is necessary to
disconnect the couplings at the spreader on a daily basis. When the
residual fluid in the spreader warms up it tends to expand causing
enough pressure at the couplings to prevent them from unlocking. If
this occurs you must do the following:
1. Align the female coupling with the check ball.
2. Hold the female coupling with a pair of channel locks.
3. Strike the channel locks with a hammer. This should cause the
male and female couplings to disconnect.

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March, 1994
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D. Ram Set
V. HEAVY RESCUE
1. Main Housing
Inspect weekly and after each use. Visually check for any
cracks.
2. Trigger Assemblies
Follow trigger assemblies maintenance B-2, Page 24.
3. Piston Rod
Check weekly and after each use. Clean, dry, and spray piston
rod weekly with silicone spray and operate.
NOTE: After each use turn "dead man" trigger clockwise then
counterclockwise to alleviate hydraulic pressure in the
main housing unit.
In recent years the Fire Service has been involved in heavy rescue
operations. The result has been the emergence of newer innovative techniques
and equipment. Emergency response to earthquakes, building collapses, trench
rescues, and heavy object removal, have seen the introduction of the Hurst
Ram Set.
The Hurst Ram Set can be utilized not only for vehicle extrication, but also
for heavy rescue operations. Heavy rescue operations can encompass trench
shoring, moving heavy objects, stabilizing buildings and obstacles, etc.
This chapter will introduce to the members of our Department, three uses of
the Hurst Ram Set during heavy rescue operations. The three operations are:
1. Trench Shoring
2. Heavy Object Moving
3. Utilizing the wedge to access a purchase for the Jaws Spreader.

Training Bulletin No. 67
March, 1994
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WEDGE SPREADER
The wedge may be used to move a heavy object in situations that require a
purchase for the use of the Jaws or Ram Set.
Photos 29, 30 and 31 show how the hurst ram with the wedge attachment can be
utilized. A wedge block should be used in conjunction with the wedge
attachment to eliminate the possibility of the object lowering.
Once an access point is established, put the tips of the jaws spreader in and
lift (see Photo 31). Replace the wedge with a wedge cribbing and continue to
lift to the desired height. Remember to always crib as you lift.
PHOTO 29

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PHOTO 30
PHOTO 31

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PHOTO 32
PHOTO 33

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TRENCH SHORING
Photo 34 shows the use of the Hurst Ram Set for trench shoring. To lower the
Hurst Ram, feed the drop bag line through the eyes of both tips. Proper
positioning requires that the lip of the trench be stabilized first at ground
level. Plywood sheeting is then lowered on both sides of the trench. Use a 2"
X 6" or larger size planks for shoring uprights, as shown in the photo. Now
lower the Hurst Ram two feet below ground level and extend Ram Set to apply
pressure to the uprights.
When utilizing the Hurst Ram Set in a shoring operation, it is recommended
that the Heavy Utility, the Disaster Preparedness Section members, or other
members certified in trench rescue, heavy object moving, or rescue systems be
on-scene.
PHOTO 34

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HEAVY OBJECT
Photos 35 and 36 shows the Hurst Ram being utilized for heavy object moving.
Notice the cribbing used in conjunction with the Hurst Ram. The technique of
lift an inch and crib an inch shall be used during this operation.
PHOTO 35
PHOTO 36

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VI. SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
DOC. 1090020/33
1. Prior to any patient extrication, ensure that the vehicle or
other involved objects are properly chocked and/or cribbed.
2. Wear gloves and eye protection when connecting and
disconnecting hydraulic line couplings. Hydraulic fluid may be
irritating to the skin and eyes.
3. Double check all connections.
4. Maintain a safe incident work area that is clear of
obstructions and free of unnecessary personnel.
5. Maintain a safety member at the power unit "dump valve" at all
times to be available should the need arise for an emergency
shut down. Keep the line of sight clear between the member
using the tool and the person controlling the dump valve.
6. Do not straddle the hydraulic lines while operating tools.
7. Keep all parts of the body from between the tool and the object
being worked on.
8. During cutting and spreading operations make provisions to
control parts which break free with great force (i.e., doors,
seats, and brake pedals).
9. To prevent hydraulic line damage, verify that their location is
clear of the anticipated operations.
10. When replacing the power unit onto the fire apparatus, be aware
of the hot muffler.