Comprehensive Safe Work Method Statement for prescribed burn operations including fire ignition, smoke management, thermal exposure controls, and emergency response procedures for controlled vegetation management

Prescribed Burns SWMS

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Prescribed burns are controlled fire operations used for vegetation management, fuel reduction, ecological restoration, and bushfire mitigation across Australian landscapes. These operations involve deliberate ignition of vegetation under planned conditions to achieve specific land management outcomes while minimizing risks to personnel, property, and the environment. This Safe Work Method Statement provides comprehensive guidance for conducting prescribed burns safely, managing smoke exposure, controlling fire behavior, and responding to emergencies when fire escapes planned boundaries.

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Overview

What this SWMS covers

Prescribed burns, also termed controlled burns or hazard reduction burns, are planned fire operations conducted under specific environmental conditions to achieve land management objectives including fuel reduction in bushfire-prone areas, ecological restoration promoting fire-adapted native species, invasive weed control, and pastoral land improvement. These operations are conducted by government fire agencies, park management authorities, rural fire brigades, and qualified private contractors throughout Australian regions. Prescribed burn operations involve systematic planning including burn unit boundary establishment, weather monitoring, ignition pattern design, resource positioning (fire crews, water tankers, heavy equipment), and communication with emergency services and neighboring properties. Ignition techniques vary from hand-held drip torches for small areas to aerial incendiary devices deployed from helicopters for large remote burns. Burn objectives dictate fire intensity, with low-intensity cool burns targeting understory fuel reduction and higher-intensity burns achieving ecological renewal or invasive species control. Typical prescribed burn scenarios include bushfire fuel reduction in peri-urban interface zones protecting communities, forest understory burns maintaining fire-adapted ecosystems, grassland burns removing senescent vegetation and controlling woody weeds, and agricultural burns clearing stubble or preparing land for planting. Burn sizes range from small plots (1-5 hectares) to extensive landscape burns exceeding 1,000 hectares requiring multi-day operations and significant resource coordination. This SWMS addresses all phases of prescribed burn operations: pre-burn planning and approvals including burn plan development and weather forecasting, site preparation including firebreak establishment and asset protection, ignition operations with control line monitoring, burn supervision and suppression resource deployment, mop-up operations extinguishing residual heat sources, and post-burn site rehabilitation. The document provides controls for high-risk hazards including thermal burns and radiant heat exposure, smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide poisoning, loss of fire control requiring evacuation, and flash-over conditions causing sudden fire intensity increases.

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Why this SWMS matters

Prescribed burns present severe injury and fatality risks that have caused deaths among fire personnel and contractors across Australia. Thermal burns from direct flame contact, radiant heat exposure, or hot ember strikes cause permanent disfigurement and disability. Fatal burns have occurred when personnel became trapped by rapid fire advancement, when escape routes were compromised by unexpected wind changes, or when protective clothing failed under extreme heat conditions. Smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide poisoning are significant health hazards during prescribed burns. Wildland fire smoke contains carbon monoxide, particulates, and toxic combustion products including formaldehyde, acrolein, and benzene. Prolonged exposure causes acute respiratory distress, carbon monoxide poisoning with symptoms including headache and confusion leading to unconsciousness, and long-term respiratory disease from cumulative exposure. Personnel working in dense smoke without respiratory protection, or in smoke drainage areas where concentrations are highest, face greatest exposure risks. Loss of fire control represents the most serious consequence of prescribed burn operations. Fires escaping planned boundaries have caused property destruction, environmental damage, and fatalities when prescribed burns transitioned to bushfires. Contributing factors to loss of control include inaccurate weather forecasting, inadequate firebreak preparation, insufficient suppression resources, and human error during ignition operations. The catastrophic 2003 Canberra bushfires originated from prescribed burns that escaped control, ultimately causing 4 deaths and destroying over 500 homes. Flash-over and sudden fire intensity increases cause entrapment and burn injuries when fire behavior changes rapidly due to wind shifts, fuel accumulation, or topographic effects. Fire can accelerate from slow ground fire to crown fire within seconds when conditions align, closing escape routes and overwhelming firefighters. The Work Health and Safety Act 2011 requires prescribed burn operators to implement comprehensive risk assessment, maintain adequate safety margins and escape routes, and provide appropriate training and PPE to all personnel involved in fire operations.

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Hazard identification

Surface the critical risks tied to this work scope and communicate them to every worker.

Risk register

High

Direct flame contact, radiant heat from fire fronts, and hot ember strikes cause severe thermal burns to exposed skin, respiratory tract, and eyes. Prescribed fire flames reach temperatures of 800-1,200°C with radiant heat extending 10-30 metres from active fire fronts. Personnel working near fire edges, conducting ignition operations, or conducting mop-up in smoldering areas face continuous thermal exposure. Protective clothing provides limited protection with failure occurring when heat flux exceeds garment ratings or exposure duration is prolonged. Radiant heat causes burns without direct flame contact; personnel facing fire fronts without adequate shielding experience painful burns within seconds. Hot embers and burning bark can lodge in clothing, boots, or equipment causing delayed burns. Wind changes can redirect flames toward personnel with insufficient reaction time to escape.

Consequence: Second and third-degree burns causing permanent scarring, disfigurement, and disability. Respiratory tract burns from inhaling hot gases leading to airway swelling, respiratory failure, and death. Eye burns causing permanent vision impairment. Fatal burns when personnel become trapped by fire with no escape route available.

High

Wildland fire smoke contains carbon monoxide (CO), particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), and toxic combustion products creating acute and chronic health hazards. Carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin reducing oxygen transport causing symptoms including headache, nausea, dizziness, confusion, and loss of consciousness. CO concentrations in dense smoke near active fire can exceed 200ppm; prolonged exposure to levels above 50ppm causes poisoning. Particulate matter inflames airways causing coughing, chest tightness, and respiratory distress particularly in personnel with pre-existing respiratory conditions. Dense smoke obscures vision creating disorientation and preventing identification of escape routes. Smoke drainage into low-lying areas or valleys creates pockets of extremely high concentration where personnel can be overcome rapidly. Cool morning conditions after overnight burns trap smoke at ground level creating hazardous atmospheres during mop-up operations.

Consequence: Carbon monoxide poisoning causing unconsciousness, brain damage from oxygen deprivation, and death if exposure continues without rescue. Acute respiratory distress requiring medical treatment and temporary or permanent respiratory impairment. Disorientation in smoke leading to entrapment as personnel lose awareness of escape route locations. Long-term respiratory disease including chronic bronchitis and reduced lung function from cumulative smoke exposure over career duration.

High

Prescribed fires can escape planned boundaries and transition to uncontrolled bushfires when weather conditions change unexpectedly, firebreaks are inadequate, fuel loads are underestimated, or ignition operations proceed faster than containment resources can maintain control. Wind speed increases or direction changes cause fire to jump firebreaks or spot fires across control lines from airborne embers. Inadequate firebreak width or poor construction allows fire to cross barriers particularly when fuel loads adjacent to breaks are high. Insufficient suppression resources (water, personnel, heavy equipment) prevent effective containment once escape occurs. Human error including igniting too large an area simultaneously, igniting downwind of control lines, or igniting during marginal weather conditions contributes to control loss. Fires escaping control present extreme danger to personnel requiring immediate evacuation, threaten nearby properties and environmental assets, and create legal and financial liability for burn operators.

Consequence: Property damage and potential fatalities if escaped fire reaches structures or threatens public. Environmental damage to protected areas, endangered species habitat, or cultural heritage sites. Personnel injuries or deaths during attempts to contain escaped fire or during evacuation under emergency conditions. Legal prosecution and financial liability under bushfire protection legislation for fires escaping control due to negligence.

High

Flash-over events occur when fire behavior changes rapidly from low-intensity ground fire to high-intensity crown fire or fire tornado formation within seconds. Contributing factors include wind speed increases, topographic funneling effects in gullies or saddles, transition from light fuels to heavy fuels, and explosive ignition of accumulated dry fuel. Flash-over creates sudden radiant heat increases exceeding protective clothing capacity, rapid fire spread rates closing escape routes, and generation of fire-induced winds drawing personnel toward fire. Fire tornadoes (pyro-cumulonimbus events) generate their own weather systems with erratic winds throwing embers kilometers ahead of the main fire front. Personnel working in gullies, on ridgelines, or in areas with heavy fuel accumulation face highest flash-over risk. Limited warning time prevents effective escape; personnel may have less than 30 seconds between flash-over initiation and entrapment.

Consequence: Fatal burns when personnel are trapped by flash-over without adequate escape route or burn-over shelter protection. Severe disorientation as fire-generated winds and smoke eliminate visibility preventing escape. Multiple fatalities if entire crew is trapped in flash-over area. Psychological trauma among survivors requiring long-term counseling and potential unfitness for continued firefighting duties.

Medium

Prescribed burn operations involve extensive vehicle and heavy equipment use including 4WD fire trucks, bulldozers for firebreak construction, water tankers, and helicopters for aerial ignition. Vehicle accidents occur on rough terrain, steep slopes, and narrow fire trails particularly during night operations or in reduced visibility from smoke. Rollovers are common on steep sideslopes or when traversing unstable ground weakened by tree root burn-out. Vehicle fires can result from exposure to flames, hot ground, or ember strikes igniting fuel systems or dry vegetation accumulated under vehicles. Heavy equipment operators face visibility limitations, entrapment hazards if fire surrounds stationary equipment, and crush injuries during equipment maintenance or repair in fire-affected areas. Equipment breakdowns in remote locations during active fire operations leave personnel without transportation for evacuation if conditions deteriorate.

Consequence: Serious injuries or fatalities from vehicle rollovers particularly when personnel are not restrained or are traveling in vehicle trays. Burn injuries if vehicle fire traps occupants or forces evacuation into active fire area. Equipment operator injuries from visibility-related collisions, rollovers, or struck-by hazards from falling burned trees. Entrapment of personnel when vehicle breakdown occurs in fire-affected areas with no alternative evacuation method available.

Control measures

Deploy layered controls aligned to the hierarchy of hazard management.

Implementation guide

Administrative Control

Detailed burn plans specify burn objectives, unit boundaries, weather prescription windows, ignition patterns, resource requirements, and contingency actions providing systematic approach to prescribed fire operations. Weather monitoring before and during burns ensures operations proceed only within safe parameters.

Implementation

1. Develop written burn plan minimum 2 weeks before ignition date specifying burn objectives, area description, fuel type and load assessment, ignition technique and pattern, resource requirements (personnel, equipment, water supply), and success criteria 2. Define weather prescription window including acceptable ranges for temperature (typically 12-25°C), relative humidity (typically 30-60%), wind speed (typically 8-25 km/h), and wind direction (must be away from assets and towards prepared containment areas) 3. Establish trigger points for operational decisions including proceed/postpone decision criteria, during-burn suspension triggers (wind speed exceeding 30 km/h, wind direction shift greater than 45 degrees), and emergency evacuation triggers 4. Monitor weather continuously using on-site weather stations measuring temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction at 10-minute intervals; compare real-time conditions against prescription window 5. Obtain professional weather forecasts from Bureau of Meteorology for burn day and following 72 hours assessing fire danger ratings, potential wind changes, and approaching weather systems 6. Establish communication protocols with Bureau of Meteorology for real-time weather updates during burn operations particularly for wind change warnings 7. Brief all personnel on weather parameters, prescription window limits, and actions required if conditions move outside acceptable ranges before burn commences 8. Document weather conditions throughout burn operation recording hourly observations and any significant changes requiring operational adjustments

Engineering Control

Physical firebreaks and positioning of adequate suppression resources provide engineered barriers preventing fire escape and enabling rapid containment if fire approaches control lines. Firebreak width, construction quality, and maintenance directly affect containment effectiveness.

Implementation

1. Construct firebreaks with minimum width appropriate for fuel loads and fire intensity: 3-5 metres for light fuels (grassland), 10-15 metres for moderate fuels (open forest), 20+ metres for heavy fuels (dense scrub) 2. Use mechanical equipment (bulldozers, graders) to create mineral earth firebreaks removing all flammable material down to mineral soil; rake or burn back vegetation adjacent to breaks reducing fuel immediately adjacent to control lines 3. Inspect firebreaks before burn ignition checking for gaps, inadequate width, vegetation regrowth, or other weaknesses; repair deficiencies before proceeding 4. Position water tankers (minimum 2 per burn operation) at strategic locations around burn perimeter with adequate water supply for extended operations (minimum 2,000 litres per tanker) 5. Deploy ground crews (minimum 4 personnel for small burns under 10 hectares, additional crews for larger operations) equipped with fire rakes, backpack spray units, and hand tools at intervals around perimeter 6. Position heavy equipment (bulldozer or excavator) on site if burn exceeds 50 hectares or involves heavy fuels capable of creating containment challenges 7. Establish water supply points identifying accessible water sources (dams, streams, tanks) for tanker refilling during extended operations 8. Create internal firebreaks dividing large burn areas into manageable blocks (typically 20-50 hectares) allowing staged ignition and providing internal containment if sections require isolation

Elimination Control

Pre-identified escape routes and safety zones provide personnel with guaranteed safe locations if fire behavior exceeds predictions or control loss occurs. Multiple escape route options and appropriately sized safety zones eliminate entrapment hazards.

Implementation

1. Identify minimum 2 escape routes from every work location leading to safety zones; routes must be accessible without requiring passage through heavy fuel or across fire front 2. Mark escape routes clearly using reflective markers, flagging tape, or GPS waypoints ensuring visibility in smoke or darkness; brief all personnel on route locations before work commences 3. Establish safety zones at minimum 100 metres from heavy fuels with no flammable vegetation within zone; larger safety zones required for intense fires or large burn areas (minimum 4x flame height) 4. Safety zones must accommodate all personnel assigned to that section with adequate separation to prevent radiant heat exposure (minimum 3 metres per person) 5. Conduct physical walkthrough of all escape routes before burn ignition verifying routes are clear of obstacles, deadfalls, or terrain hazards that would prevent rapid movement 6. Position vehicles in safety zones or on escape routes not within fire-affected areas; vehicles provide secondary shelter and evacuation options if ground-based escape is compromised 7. Assign crew leaders responsibility for ensuring all personnel know escape routes and safety zone locations; conduct regular radio checks confirming crew positions throughout burn 8. Test escape route travel times before burn commencing ensuring all personnel can reach safety zones within maximum 2 minutes from furthest work location

PPE

Respiratory protection equipment protects personnel from smoke inhalation, carbon monoxide poisoning, and particulate exposure during prescribed burn operations. Smoke management practices reduce exposure duration and intensity.

Implementation

1. Provide P2 particulate respirators (AS/NZS 1716) to all personnel for use during high smoke exposure activities including ignition operations, mop-up, and working in smoke drainage areas 2. Fit-test all respirators to individual wearers ensuring effective seal and protection; personnel with facial hair must be clean-shaven or use alternative respiratory protection (powered air purifying respirators) 3. Train personnel on proper respirator donning, seal checking, and limitations (P2 respirators do not protect against carbon monoxide requiring evacuation from extreme smoke exposure) 4. Implement work rotation limiting individual exposure duration to dense smoke: maximum 2 hours continuous exposure before mandatory rest period in clean air 5. Position work crews upwind of active fire fronts whenever operationally feasible reducing smoke exposure during ignition and monitoring operations 6. Conduct ignition operations during periods of optimal atmospheric mixing (typically mid-day) when smoke dispersion is maximised; avoid ignition during temperature inversions (early morning, evening) when smoke concentrations at ground level are highest 7. Establish clean air zones in safety areas where personnel can remove respirators, rest, and recover from smoke exposure; provide medical monitoring for personnel showing symptoms of smoke exposure 8. Evacuate personnel immediately from areas where smoke density prevents visibility beyond 10 metres or where carbon monoxide symptoms (headache, nausea, dizziness) are reported

Administrative Control

Staged ignition proceeding from safe areas toward higher-risk areas with continuous fire behavior monitoring provides operational control preventing simultaneous ignition of excessive area. Monitoring detects behavior changes requiring operational adjustment before control is compromised.

Implementation

1. Begin ignition from firebreak or natural barrier (road, waterway) working progressively into burn unit; never ignite center of unit or areas distant from containment resources first 2. Limit initial ignition to small areas (5-10 hectares maximum) observing fire behavior including rate of spread, flame height, and ember production before expanding ignition area 3. Assign dedicated fire behavior observer monitoring fire characteristics continuously and reporting observations to burn controller via radio every 15 minutes minimum 4. Suspend ignition operations immediately if fire behavior exceeds predictions: flame heights greater than 2 metres in grass or 5 metres in forest, spotting beyond 100 metres from fire front, or fire spread rate exceeding 1 km/hour 5. Use conservative ignition patterns for initial stages (strip ignition, point ignition) producing lower fire intensity; progress to more aggressive patterns (aerial ignition, chevron ignition) only after confirming behaviour remains within prescription 6. Maintain minimum 50-metre separation between active fire front and ignition crews preventing entrapment if fire accelerates unexpectedly 7. Cease ignition operations minimum 2 hours before predicted wind change or weather deterioration ensuring adequate time for fire to consume fuel and reduce intensity before conditions change 8. Document fire behavior observations hourly including flame heights, spread rates, spotting distances, and smoke column characteristics for post-burn analysis and future planning

Administrative Control

Pre-planned emergency response procedures and practiced evacuation protocols ensure rapid coordinated response when fire escapes control, personnel are injured, or conditions deteriorate requiring work suspension and evacuation.

Implementation

1. Develop written emergency response plan identifying evacuation triggers (wind speed exceeding 40 km/h, wind direction shift greater than 90 degrees, fire spotting beyond firebreaks, personnel injury requiring medical treatment) 2. Establish clear chain of command with burn controller authorized to order evacuations and coordinate emergency response; all personnel must understand and follow controller directions without question 3. Conduct emergency communications check before ignition verifying all radios function on designated emergency channel; establish code words for emergency situations (RED FLAG = immediate evacuation) 4. Brief all personnel on evacuation procedures including assembly points, personnel accountability methods, and communication protocols before burn commences; conduct evacuation drill if personnel are unfamiliar with procedures 5. Position first aid officer with comprehensive first aid kit and burn treatment supplies at burn control point; first aid officer must hold current Provide First Aid certification minimum 6. Pre-arrange medical evacuation (helicopter evacuation) for remote burns located more than 30 minutes from hospital providing rapid transport for serious injuries 7. Notify emergency services (Fire and Rescue, Rural Fire Service, Ambulance) before burn ignition providing burn location, contact details, and estimated completion time; request emergency services remain on standby for large or high-risk burns 8. Conduct post-burn debriefing after each operation discussing close calls, hazards encountered, and improvements for future burns; document lessons learned for incorporation into future burn plans

PPE

Fire-resistant protective clothing, footwear, and personal protective equipment provides final barrier against thermal burns, ember strikes, and environmental hazards during prescribed burn operations. PPE must meet relevant Australian standards for wildland firefighting.

Implementation

1. Wear fire-resistant clothing (AS 2919 compliant) including long-sleeve shirt and long trousers made from natural fibers (cotton, wool) or fire-resistant treated fabrics; synthetic materials (polyester, nylon) are prohibited due to melting hazard 2. Use leather boots with aggressive tread and ankle support (AS/NZS 2210.3 compliant) protecting feet from hot ground, embers, and rough terrain; steel toe caps protect from crushing by falling logs or rolling rocks 3. Don wildland firefighter helmet (AS/NZS 1801) with face shield or safety glasses protecting head from falling objects and eyes from embers and smoke; helmet must fit securely and not obstruct vision or hearing 4. Wear leather gloves with extended cuffs protecting hands and wrists from burns, cuts from tools, and thorns while maintaining dexterity for tool use and radio operation 5. Carry personal fire shelter (AS 2419 compliant) when working in high-risk areas (heavy fuels, remote locations, marginal weather); deploy shelter as last resort if trapped with no escape route available 6. Use P2 respirator (AS/NZS 1716) during smoke exposure activities; replace respirators when breathing resistance increases or after maximum 8 hours use 7. Wear high-visibility vest over fire-resistant clothing when working near vehicles, equipment, or roadways ensuring visibility to operators and traffic 8. Maintain PPE in serviceable condition replacing fire-resistant clothing showing damage, excessive wear, or contamination; wash fire-resistant garments per manufacturer requirements maintaining fire resistance

Download complete control procedures

Personal protective equipment

Requirement: AS 2919 compliant shirt and trousers in natural fiber or fire-resistant treated fabric

When: Mandatory for all prescribed burn personnel protecting skin from radiant heat, direct flame contact, and ember strikes. Must be long-sleeve and long-leg coverage with no exposed skin.

Requirement: AS/NZS 1801 compliant helmet with chin strap and optional face shield

When: Required for all fire operations protecting head from falling branches, rolling logs, and overhead hazards. Face shield or safety glasses must be worn protecting eyes from embers and smoke.

Requirement: AS/NZS 2210.3 compliant leather boots with steel toe cap and aggressive tread

When: Mandatory footwear protecting feet from hot ground, burning embers, and rough terrain. Boots must be lace-up style with ankle support and water-resistant construction.

Requirement: AS/NZS 1716 P2 filtering facepiece respirator fit-tested to wearer

When: Required during high smoke exposure activities including ignition operations, mop-up in smoldering areas, and working in smoke drainage zones. Provides protection from particulates but not carbon monoxide.

Requirement: Heavy-duty leather gloves with extended cuffs and reinforced palms

When: Mandatory hand protection during all fire operations protecting from burns, cuts, thorns, and blisters. Gloves must maintain dexterity for tool use and equipment operation.

Requirement: AS 2419 compliant emergency fire shelter with deployment training

When: Required to be carried by all personnel when working in high-risk fire conditions (heavy fuels, remote locations, marginal weather) providing last-resort protection if trapped by fire.

Inspections & checks

Before work starts

✓Review and approve burn plan confirming all approvals obtained, notification completed, and resources confirmed available for burn date
✓Verify weather forecast is within prescription parameters with no predicted changes during burn period; postpone burn if forecast is marginal
✓Inspect all firebreaks confirming adequate width, mineral earth exposure, and no gaps or weaknesses; repair deficiencies before proceeding
✓Check all firefighting equipment including water tankers (water level, pump operation), backpack sprayers (pressure, nozzle function), and hand tools (condition, adequate quantity)
✓Test all communications equipment (radios, mobile phones, satellite phones) ensuring coverage throughout burn area and backup communication method available
✓Verify first aid equipment is complete, burn treatment supplies are available, and first aid officer is identified and present
✓Brief all personnel on burn plan, weather parameters, ignition pattern, escape routes, safety zones, and emergency procedures before commencing operations
✓Conduct final weather check using on-site weather station confirming conditions remain within prescription immediately before ignition authorization

During work

✓Monitor weather conditions continuously recording temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction every 10-15 minutes; compare against prescription limits
✓Observe fire behavior continuously noting flame heights, spread rates, spotting distances, and smoke column characteristics; report significant changes to burn controller immediately
✓Maintain regular radio contact with all crews (every 15 minutes minimum) confirming positions, conditions encountered, and any concerns
✓Inspect firebreaks continuously watching for embers crossing control lines, spot fires, or fire approaching inadequately prepared sections
✓Monitor personnel for heat stress symptoms including excessive sweating, weakness, nausea, or confusion; rotate personnel out of high-heat areas every 2 hours
✓Assess smoke exposure continuously; evacuate personnel from areas where visibility is less than 10 metres or where carbon monoxide symptoms reported
✓Check fuel consumption progress ensuring ignition rate matches fuel consumption preventing excessive unburned area accumulation
✓Verify suppression resources (water tankers, crews) remain positioned appropriately; reposition as fire progresses or if unexpected behavior develops

After work

✓Conduct mop-up operations extinguishing all smoldering material within 10 metres of firebreaks and all large heat sources (burning logs, stumps) capable of generating embers overnight
✓Patrol entire burn perimeter confirming fire has not crossed firebreaks and no spot fires exist outside burn boundary; extinguish any escapes immediately
✓Establish post-burn patrol schedule conducting inspections every 2-4 hours for first 24 hours, then twice daily for following 72 hours monitoring for rekindling or escapes
✓Document burn outcomes measuring area burned, fuel consumption effectiveness, unburned areas requiring follow-up, and any escapes or control challenges encountered
✓Debrief all personnel discussing hazards encountered, close calls, equipment performance, and improvements for future operations; document lessons learned
✓Notify all previously informed parties (emergency services, neighbors, authorities) that burn is completed and mop-up is underway
✓Complete post-burn reporting as required by burn approvals including area burned, weather during burn, issues encountered, and environmental outcomes observed
✓Inspect and service all equipment used during burn including washing fire trucks, refueling equipment, and repairing or replacing damaged tools before storage

Step-by-step work procedure

Give supervisors and crews a clear, auditable sequence for the task.

Field ready

Burn Planning and Approvals

Develop comprehensive burn plan minimum 2 weeks before proposed burn date including burn objectives (fuel reduction, ecological restoration, weed control), area description with mapping showing burn boundaries and firebreaks, vegetation and fuel assessment documenting fuel types and loading, ignition pattern and technique, resource requirements (personnel, equipment, water supply), weather prescription windows, and success criteria. Submit burn notification to relevant authorities (Rural Fire Service, local council, fire management agencies) per regional requirements typically 2-4 weeks before proposed date. Obtain necessary permits if required under local regulations. Notify neighbors and emergency services of planned burn providing contact details and estimated completion time. Conduct pre-burn site inspection walking burn perimeter, assessing fuel loads, identifying high-value assets requiring protection, and confirming firebreak locations are suitable. Photograph burn area documenting pre-burn conditions. Review historical weather patterns for proposed burn period identifying typical conditions and probability of weather prescription being met. Engage Bureau of Meteorology for long-range forecast and discuss burn requirements. Brief burn crew minimum 1 week before burn reviewing plan, individual responsibilities, and training requirements.

Safety considerations

Ensure all required approvals and permits are obtained before proceeding. Notify all relevant parties minimum 1 week before burn. Verify crew members hold required qualifications for prescribed burn operations. Postpone burn if weather forecast is marginal or uncertain.

Firebreak Construction and Pre-Burn Site Preparation

Construct firebreaks around burn perimeter using mechanical equipment (bulldozers, graders) or manual methods creating mineral earth breaks of appropriate width for fuel loads (3-5 metres light fuels, 10-15 metres moderate fuels, 20+ metres heavy fuels). Remove all flammable material from breaks down to mineral soil; rake or burn back vegetation immediately adjacent to breaks reducing fuel loading within 2 metres of control lines. Construct internal firebreaks dividing large burns into manageable blocks (20-50 hectares typical) allowing staged ignition and providing backup control lines. Clear escape routes ensuring access is unobstructed and routes connect to safety zones; mark routes clearly with reflective markers or flagging. Establish safety zones in burned areas, cleared areas, or locations with minimal fuel loading; ensure zones are sized adequately (minimum 100 metres from heavy fuels). Position water tankers at strategic locations around perimeter ensuring access to water supply points. Conduct final firebreak inspection identifying gaps, inadequate width, or weak sections requiring repair before ignition. Protect high-value assets including structures, fences, infrastructure using additional firebreaks, wet-down with water, or wrapping with fire-resistant materials. Install weather monitoring equipment on site beginning continuous data logging minimum 24 hours before burn.

Safety considerations

Construct firebreaks of adequate width for fuel types and expected fire intensity. Inspect breaks thoroughly before burn for gaps or weaknesses. Mark escape routes clearly and test accessibility before burn commences. Position water and equipment for rapid response to escapes.

Final Weather Assessment and Go/No-Go Decision

Obtain final weather forecast from Bureau of Meteorology on morning of burn day confirming conditions remain within prescription parameters (temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction as specified in burn plan). Review forecast for following 72 hours ensuring no predicted wind changes, fire danger rating increases, or weather systems approaching that would compromise burn safety. Conduct on-site weather observations using portable weather station measuring temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and direction confirming conditions match forecast and fall within prescription. Calculate fire danger index and rate of fire spread using McArthur Forest Fire Danger Index or Grassland Fire Danger Index appropriate for fuel type; confirm results are within acceptable range specified in burn plan. Make final go/no-go decision based on weather assessment and consultation with burn crew; postpone burn if any doubt exists about weather stability or appropriateness of conditions. Brief all personnel on weather conditions expected during burn, prescription limits, and triggers requiring suspension of operations. Establish communication schedule for receiving weather updates from Bureau of Meteorology during burn (typically every 2-4 hours). Notify all previously contacted parties that burn will proceed providing estimated ignition time and duration.

Safety considerations

Only proceed with burn if weather conditions are clearly within prescription parameters. Postpone if any uncertainty exists about forecast accuracy or stability. Establish communication for real-time weather updates during burn. Brief all personnel on weather limits and suspension triggers before ignition begins.

Resource Positioning and Communications Check

Position all suppression resources before ignition commences including water tankers at intervals around burn perimeter with access to refill points verified, ground crews equipped with firefighting tools positioned at intervals along control lines, and heavy equipment (bulldozers, excavators if required) positioned where rapid deployment is possible if firebreak reinforcement needed. Establish burn control point in safe location with communications equipment, first aid supplies, weather monitoring display, and burn documentation. Position first aid officer at control point with comprehensive burn treatment supplies and communication to medical evacuation resources if required. Conduct final communications check testing all radios on primary and emergency channels; verify all crew members can contact burn controller and each other. Test backup communication system (mobile phones, satellite phone) confirming coverage throughout burn area. Distribute fire-resistant PPE ensuring all personnel have appropriate clothing, helmets, gloves, boots, and respirators fitted correctly. Brief all personnel on final operational plan covering ignition sequence and pattern, timing, crew positions and responsibilities, communication protocols and schedules, escape routes and safety zones, and emergency response procedures. Assign crew leaders for each section of burn boundary responsible for monitoring fire behavior and personnel safety in their area.

Safety considerations

Verify all suppression resources are positioned and functional before ignition begins. Test communications thoroughly ensuring reliable contact between all crews and burn controller. Ensure all personnel understand escape routes, safety zones, and emergency signals before commencing ignition.

Staged Ignition and Fire Behavior Monitoring

Begin ignition from safe barrier (established firebreak, road, waterway) proceeding progressively into burn unit using ignition pattern specified in burn plan (strip ignition for grass, point ignition for forest understory). Use drip torches or other approved ignition devices working from downwind edge toward upwind edge preventing fire crew from being caught between fire front and unburned fuel. Limit initial ignition area to small test section (5-10 hectares) observing fire behavior including flame heights, rate of spread, spotting distance, and smoke column development before expanding ignition. Assign dedicated fire behavior observer watching fire continuously and reporting observations to burn controller via radio every 15 minutes; observer reports flame heights, spread rate, spotting activity, and any unexpected behavior. Monitor weather continuously comparing on-site observations against weather prescription limits; suspend ignition if parameters approach or exceed limits. Maintain conservative approach to ignition rate ensuring fire consumes fuel and intensity moderates before igniting adjacent areas. Position ignition crews minimum 50 metres from active fire fronts maintaining safety margin if fire accelerates unexpectedly. Cease ignition minimum 2 hours before predicted wind change or weather deterioration allowing fire to consume available fuel and moderate before conditions become less favorable.

Safety considerations

Begin ignition conservatively with small test area before expanding. Maintain continuous fire behavior observation and reporting. Suspend operations immediately if fire behavior exceeds predictions. Position ignition crews safely away from active fire fronts. Cease ignition well before predicted weather changes.

Perimeter Patrol and Spot Fire Suppression

Assign patrol crews to circuit burn perimeter continuously throughout ignition phase monitoring firebreaks for embers crossing control lines, watching for spot fires ignited by wind-blown embers landing outside burn boundary, and ensuring fire remains within planned area. Patrol crews maintain radio contact with burn controller reporting conditions and locations every 15-30 minutes. Crews equipped with backpack spray units, fire rakes, and hand tools providing immediate response capability for small spot fires or embers crossing breaks. Suppress spot fires immediately upon detection using direct attack with water or hand tools before fires establish and grow beyond initial attack capacity. Alert burn controller immediately if spot fires exceed initial attack capacity or if multiple spot fires occur simultaneously; controller dispatches additional resources (water tankers, heavy equipment, additional crews) to reinforce containment. Watch for areas where fire approaches firebreaks more aggressively than expected; reinforce breaks using burnback operations (controlled ignition consuming fuel between fire front and break) or wet-down with water creating barrier preventing fire crossing. Monitor downwind areas beyond burn boundary watching for long-distance spotting (can occur several kilometers in extreme conditions); communicate with landowners or authorities in downwind areas alerting them to maintain vigilance for spot fires on their properties.

Safety considerations

Maintain continuous perimeter patrol during all ignition and active burning phases. Suppress spot fires immediately before they establish. Alert burn controller to any breaches or spot fires exceeding initial attack capacity. Ensure patrol crews maintain awareness of escape routes and don't become trapped between fire and inadequate firebreak.

Mop-Up and Overnight Patrol

After main ignition phase is complete and fire intensity moderates, commence mop-up operations extinguishing all smoldering material within 10 metres of burn boundary firebreaks preventing rekindling and subsequent escape. Target large heat sources including burning logs, stumps, root masses, and heavy fuel accumulations capable of generating embers overnight. Use direct water application, mineral earth burial, or cold-trailing (feeling with hand after removing glove to verify no heat remains) to extinguish heat sources. Pay particular attention to areas near breaks where unburned fuel remains adjacent; ensure no active combustion remains within 10 metres of fuel. Establish overnight patrol schedule for first 24 hours post-ignition conducting perimeter inspections every 2-4 hours watching for rekindling, escapes, or spot fires not detected during daylight. Provide adequate lighting (vehicle lights, portable generators and lighting towers) for night patrols ensuring personnel can see hazards and identify problems. Deploy thermal imaging cameras if available allowing detection of heat sources in darkness that may not be visible to naked eye. Continue patrols twice daily for following 72 hours after ignition (total 4 days post-ignition minimum) as experience shows escapes often occur 2-3 days after ignition when fuel dries out and rekindles. Extinguish any rekindling immediately; notify burn controller if significant rekindling occurs requiring additional resources.

Safety considerations

Extinguish all heat sources within 10 metres of firebreaks before ceasing active operations. Conduct regular patrols throughout first 4 days post-ignition. Provide adequate lighting and equipment for night patrols. Ensure patrol crews maintain radio contact and work in pairs for safety during night operations.

Post-Burn Documentation and Debriefing

Complete comprehensive post-burn documentation within 7 days of burn completion including area actually burned compared to planned area, fuel consumption effectiveness in different parts of burn, unburned areas requiring follow-up treatment, weather conditions experienced during burn compared to forecast, fire behavior observations and any unexpected behavior encountered, spot fires or escapes requiring suppression, resource utilization (personnel hours, water used, equipment hours), and assessment of burn success against original objectives. Photograph burn area showing fuel consumption patterns, protected assets, and overall outcomes. Conduct crew debriefing session discussing entire operation from planning through mop-up identifying what worked well, close calls or hazards encountered, equipment or resource shortfalls, and lessons learned for future burns. Document recommendations for improvements in future burn plans, crew training needs identified, equipment needs, or procedural changes. Submit required reports to approving authorities (Rural Fire Service, land management agencies) per permit or approval conditions. Notify all previously informed parties (neighbors, emergency services, authorities) that burn is completed successfully and no ongoing fire activity exists. File all documentation including burn plan, approval documentation, weather records, radio logs, and post-burn reports for record retention and future reference. Incorporate lessons learned into future burn planning improving safety and effectiveness of subsequent operations.

Safety considerations

Complete all required documentation and reporting within specified timeframes. Conduct thorough debrief capturing lessons learned before details fade from memory. Notify all parties that burn is completed and secure. Incorporate lessons learned into future operations improving safety continuously.

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Frequently asked questions

What weather conditions are safe for conducting prescribed burns and how are these parameters determined?

Safe weather parameters for prescribed burns vary by fuel type, burn objectives, and regional conditions but typically include temperature between 12-25°C, relative humidity between 30-60%, wind speed between 8-25 km/h, and stable wind direction away from assets and towards prepared containment areas. Parameters are determined through pre-burn planning considering fuel moisture content (higher moisture requires warmer temperatures and lower humidity for effective combustion), fire danger rating (burns should not proceed when fire danger is Very High or above), topographic influences (gullies and slopes increase fire intensity requiring more conservative parameters), and asset exposure (burns near high-value assets require conservative conditions). Weather prescriptions must consider not just conditions during ignition but forecast for following 24-72 hours ensuring no wind changes, fire danger increases, or approaching weather systems will occur before fire is contained and extinguished. Obtain professional weather forecast from Bureau of Meteorology for burn day and 72-hour outlook; postpone burns if forecast shows uncertainty or marginal conditions. Monitor weather continuously during burns using on-site weather stations measuring conditions every 10-15 minutes; suspend operations if conditions move outside prescription or approach limits. Particular attention must be paid to wind changes which are primary cause of prescribed fire escapes; cease ignition minimum 2 hours before predicted wind changes allowing fire to consume fuel and moderate before conditions change. Temperature inversions (common early morning and evening) trap smoke at ground level creating hazardous atmospheres; avoid ignition during inversions waiting for atmospheric mixing to improve (typically mid-day). Post-burn weather monitoring continues minimum 4 days watching for conditions that might cause rekindling including very hot, dry, windy periods that can reignite smoldering material.

What respiratory protection is required during prescribed burns and when must personnel be evacuated due to smoke exposure?

P2 particulate respirators complying with AS/NZS 1716 must be provided to all prescribed burn personnel and worn during high smoke exposure activities including ignition operations, mop-up in smoldering areas, and working in smoke drainage zones or valleys where concentrations are highest. Respirators must be fit-tested to individual wearers ensuring effective seal and protection; personnel with facial hair must be clean-shaven or use alternative respiratory protection such as powered air purifying respirators (PAPRs). Train all personnel on proper respirator donning, seal checking, and limitations particularly that P2 respirators filter particulates but provide no protection against carbon monoxide or other toxic gases requiring evacuation from extreme smoke exposure rather than continued work with respirator. Implement work rotation limiting continuous exposure to dense smoke to maximum 2 hours before mandatory rest period in clean air allowing recovery; provide clean air zones in safety areas where personnel remove respirators and recover. Personnel must be evacuated immediately from smoke-affected areas when smoke density reduces visibility to less than 10 metres preventing identification of escape routes and creating disorientation hazard, when carbon monoxide symptoms are reported by any worker including headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, or confusion, when respirators become uncomfortable or breathing resistance increases indicating filter saturation, or when personnel report respiratory distress, coughing, or chest tightness despite respirator use. Position work crews upwind of active fire fronts whenever operationally feasible reducing smoke exposure during ignition and monitoring operations. Conduct ignition operations during optimal atmospheric mixing conditions (typically mid-day) when smoke dispersion is maximised; avoid ignition during temperature inversions (early morning, evening) when smoke settles at ground level creating highest concentration exposure. Monitor personnel continuously for heat stress which is exacerbated by respiratory protection use; respirators increase breathing resistance and heat retention requiring more frequent rest breaks and cooling interventions.

What actions must be taken if a prescribed fire escapes control boundaries and threatens to become an uncontrolled bushfire?

If prescribed fire escapes control boundaries, immediate actions must include notifying burn controller who activates emergency response procedures and makes decision whether to attempt containment with on-site resources or call emergency services (000) for assistance, evacuating all personnel not directly involved in suppression to safety zones maintaining personnel accountability, deploying all available suppression resources (water tankers, bulldozers, hand crews) to fire escape location attempting to halt spread using direct attack with water or indirect attack by constructing containment lines ahead of fire, and notifying emergency services (Fire and Rescue, Rural Fire Service) of escape providing location, fire behavior, direction of spread, and resources currently engaged even if requesting standby only. Burn controller assumes incident command coordinating all resources and communications until emergency services arrive and assume command if fire transition to bushfire status. Protect personnel safety as highest priority; do not risk lives attempting to contain fire that has established beyond initial attack capacity. Evacuate downwind properties and communities if fire spread threatens structures or public safety; emergency services coordinate evacuations using established bushfire response protocols. Document all actions, decisions, and observations during escape response for post-incident investigation and reporting. Notify approving authorities (Rural Fire Service, land management agencies) of escape as soon as practicable as required under burn approval conditions. Conduct post-incident investigation identifying causes of escape which typically include weather changes not predicted or detected in time, inadequate firebreak preparation, ignition rate exceeding containment capacity, or equipment failure; document findings and implement corrective actions preventing recurrence. Legal and financial consequences of prescribed fire escapes can be severe including prosecution under bushfire protection legislation, civil liability for property damage, and termination of future burn approvals; maintain comprehensive insurance coverage for prescribed burn operations and ensure all operations comply strictly with approved burn plans and weather prescriptions minimizing escape likelihood and demonstrating due diligence if escape occurs.

What training and qualifications are required for personnel conducting prescribed burn operations?

Personnel conducting prescribed burn operations must hold qualifications appropriate to their roles in the operation. Burn controllers (person in overall charge of burn) must hold relevant qualifications such as Rural Fire Service Burn Planning and Implementation course, land management agency equivalent training (Parks Victoria, QPWS, etc.), or equivalent industry certification demonstrating competence in burn planning, weather interpretation, fire behavior prediction, and incident management. Controllers must have extensive practical experience in prescribed burning typically requiring participation in minimum 10 supervised burns before assuming controller role. Crew leaders (responsible for sections of burn perimeter) must hold firefighting qualifications such as RFS Basic Firefighter, CFA Basic Firefighter, or equivalent demonstrating competence in fire suppression techniques, radio communications, and crew supervision; experience requirement typically 5 supervised burns before leader role. Crew members must hold minimum awareness-level firefighting training covering personal protective equipment use, basic fire behavior, escape route and safety zone concepts, and radio protocols; many agencies require formal certification before permitting participation. All personnel must hold current Provide First Aid certification (HLTAID011 formerly HLTAID003) with at least one person per crew holding current Remote Area First Aid. Equipment operators (bulldozers, water tankers) must hold appropriate licenses for equipment operated (dozer operator tickets, heavy rigid truck licenses) and complete wildfire equipment operation training covering operations in fire environment. If aerial ignition is employed, aircraft operations must comply with CASA regulations including pilot qualifications, aircraft airworthiness, and aerial application approvals. Specialized training may be required for specific techniques including helicopter operations coordination, chemical ignition device use, or suppression foam application. Maintain training records for all personnel documenting qualifications, certification dates, and renewal requirements. Conduct operation-specific briefings before each burn ensuring all personnel understand specific burn plan, site hazards, weather prescription, and emergency procedures regardless of general training and experience. Annual refresher training is recommended covering lessons learned from previous burns, procedural updates, and skills maintenance for infrequently used techniques.