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Rule 4765-24-01 | General provisions.
No institution shall provide firefighting, fire safety inspector, hazard recognition, or instructor training courses required for state certification without possessing the appropriate charter classification issued by the executive director pursuant to section 4765.55 of the Revised Code and Chapter 4765-24 of the Administrative Code. Last updated October 26, 2023 at 12:46 PM Supplemental Information |
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Rule 4765-24-02 | Classification of firefighter, fire safety inspector, and instructor training courses.
[Comment: For dates and availability of material incorporated by reference in this rule see rule 4765-25-02 of the Administrative Code.] (A) The executive director, with the advice and counsel of the committee, shall issue a charter to a training institution that meets the requirements of rule 4765-24-03 of the Administrative Code. Classifications are issued, permitting chartered training institutions to teach specific courses, in accordance with the following: (1) The executive director may authorize chartered programs to teach post-secondary training courses at one or more of the following classifications: (a) Volunteer firefighter; (b) Firefighter I; (c) Firefighter II; (d) Fire safety inspector; (e) Hazard recognition officer; (f) Fire and emergency services instructor; (g) Live fire instructor. (2) In order to hold a hazard recognition officer classification, a chartered program shall hold a fire safety inspector classification. (3) In order to hold a live fire instructor classification, a chartered program shall hold a fire instructor classification. (4) The executive director may authorize chartered programs holding a firefighter II classification to teach the firefighter I course, firefighter II transition course, or the firefighter I and II course as set forth in rules 4765-24-11, 4765-24-12, and 4765-24-13 of the Administrative Code in secondary school public safety training programs provided that all of the following are met: (a) The delivery of a firefighter I course, firefighter II transition course, or firefighter I and II course in a secondary school public safety training program was included in the approved "Fire Charter Application" or "Fire Charter Renewal Application" submitted by the charter, or was approved by the executive director, subsequent to a written request to the division; (b) The firefighter I course, firefighter II transition course, or firefighter I and II course meets all requirements as set forth in rule 4765-24-03 of the Administrative Code; (c) The firefighter I course, firefighter II transition course, or firefighter I and II course curriculum is as set forth in rule 4765-24-11, rule 4765-24-12, or rule 4765-24-13 of the Administrative Code, as applicable; (d) The program utilizes individuals who hold a current and valid certificate to teach in accordance with Chapter 4765-18 or Chapter 4765-21 of the Administrative Code in accordance with the following: (i) Instructors for the firefighter I course shall hold a certificate to practice at or above the firefighter I classification level. (ii) Instructors for the firefighter I and II course shall hold a certificate to practice at the firefighter II classification level; (iii) Shall utilize certified live fire instructors for all live fire evolutions in all firefighter certification courses. (e) The delivery of a firefighter I course or firefighter I and II course has been authorized by the chartered program's authorizing official. (5) In order to apply for an additional classification during the charter cycle, a chartered program shall submit a written request to the division for executive director approval. (a) The request shall include documentation required to support the additional classification; (b) Additional classifications issued by the executive director shall expire on the chartered program's current expiration date. (B) The executive director shall grant a volunteer firefighter classification to a chartered program that: (1) Meets all requirements as set forth in rule 4765-24-03 of the Administrative Code; (2) Provides the curriculum as set forth in rule 4765-24-09 of the Administrative Code; (3) Utilizes individuals who hold a current and valid certificate to teach in accordance with Chapter 4765-18 or Chapter 4765-21 of the Administrative Code; (4) Each instructor shall hold a current and valid firefighter certificate at or above the volunteer classification level in accordance with Chapter 4765-20 of the Administrative Code; (5) Has authorization from its authorizing official to provide a firefighter training course at the volunteer firefighter classification level. (C) The executive director shall grant a firefighter I classification to a chartered program that: (1) Meets all requirements as set forth in rule 4765-24-03 of the Administrative Code; (2) Provides the curriculum as set forth in rule 4765-24-10 or 4765-24-11 of the Administrative Code; (3) Utilizes individuals who hold a current and valid certificate to teach in accordance with Chapter 4765-18 or Chapter 4765-21 of the Administrative Code; (4) Each instructor shall hold a current and valid firefighter certificate at or above the firefighter I classification level in accordance with Chapter 4765-20 of the Administrative Code; (5) Has authorization from its authorizing official to provide a firefighter training course at the firefighter I classification level. (D) The executive director shall grant a firefighter II classification to a chartered program that: (1) Meets all requirements as set forth in rule 4765-24-03 of the Administrative Code; (2) Provides the curriculum as set forth in rule 4765-24-12 or 4765-24-13 of the Administrative Code; (3) Utilizes individuals who hold a current and valid certificate to teach in accordance with Chapter 4765-18 or Chapter 4765-21 of the Administrative Code; (4) Each instructor shall hold a current and valid firefighter certificate at the firefighter II classification level in accordance with Chapter 4765-20 of the Administrative Code; (5) Has authorization from its authorizing official to provide a firefighter training course at the firefighter II classification level. (E) The executive director shall grant a fire safety inspector classification to a chartered program that: (1) Meets all requirements as set forth in rule 4765-24-03 of the Administrative Code; (2) Provides the curriculum as set forth in rule 4765-24-14 of the Administrative Code; (3) Utilizes individuals who hold a current and valid certificate to teach in accordance with Chapter 4765-18 or Chapter 4765-21 of the Administrative Code; (4) Each instructor shall hold a current and valid fire safety inspector certificate to practice in accordance with Chapter 4765-20 of the Administrative Code; (5) Has authorization from its authorizing official to provide a fire safety inspector training course. (F) The executive director shall grant a hazard recognition officer classification to a chartered program that: (1) Meets all requirements as set forth in rule 4765-24-03 of the Administrative Code; (2) Provides the curriculum as set forth in rule 4765-24-14 of the Administrative Code; (3) Holds a fire safety inspector classification; (4) Utilizes individuals who hold a current and valid certificate to teach in accordance with Chapter 4765-18 or 4765-21 of the Administrative Code;, (5) Each instructor shall hold a current and valid hazard recognition officer, or fire safety inspector certificate to practice in accordance with Chapter 4765-20 of the Administrative Code; (6) Has authorization from its authorizing official to provide a hazard recognition officer training course. (G) The executive director shall grant a fire and emergency services instructor classification to a chartered program that: (1) Meets all requirements as set forth in rule 4765-24-03 of the Administrative Code; (2) Provides the curriculum as set forth in rule 4765-24-15 of the Administrative Code; (3) Utilizes individuals who hold a current and valid fire and emergency services instructor II certificate to teach in accordance with Chapter 4765-18 or Chapter 4765-21 of the Administrative Code, and such certificate must have been current and valid for at least the last three years; (4) Has authorization from its authorizing official to provide fire and emergency services instructor training courses within the classification level. (H) The executive director shall grant a live fire instructor classification to a chartered program that: (1) Meets all requirements as set forth in rule 4765-24-03 of the Administrative Code; (2) Provides the curriculum as set forth in rule 4765-24-15 of the Administrative Code; (3) Holds a current and valid fire and emergency services instructor classification; (4) Utilizes instructors in accordance with the following: (a) Each instructor shall hold a current and valid fire and emergency services instructor II certificate to teach in accordance with Chapter 4765-21 of the Administrative Code; (b) Each instructor shall meet the live fire instructor requirements set forth in rule 4765-21-03 of the Administrative Code. (5) Has authorization from its authorizing official to provide live fire instructor training courses. (I) A chartered program may voluntarily surrender its charter, or any classification by submitting a request to the division. (1) Such request to surrender shall be in writing; (2) Such surrender is subject to the executive director's approval; (3) A surrender approved by the executive director becomes effective upon the date of approval. (J) If a chartered program is under investigation by the division, acceptance of surrender is at the discretion of the executive director. Last updated July 8, 2024 at 10:38 AM Supplemental Information |
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Rule 4765-24-03 | Qualifications for a fire charter.
[Comment: For dates and availability of material incorporated by reference in this rule see rule 4765-25-02 of the Administrative Code.] (A) The executive director, with advice and counsel of the committee, shall issue a charter to provide firefighter, fire safety inspector, hazard recognition officer, and instructor courses, in accordance with the classifications set forth in rule 4765-24-02 of the Administrative Code, to a training institution that satisfies all the following requirements: (1) Submits a completed "Fire Charter Application" to the division; (2) Possesses a good reputation, as defined in rule 4765-25-01 of the Administrative Code; (3) Has an authorizing official with a good reputation who assumes ultimate responsibility for all aspects of the program; (4) Offers firefighter, fire safety inspector, hazard recognition officer, and instructor courses that satisfy the curriculum requirements as set forth in this chapter; (5) Establishes an advisory committee that shall meet at least one time each year based on the charter cycle and includes a minimum of five individuals consisting of the program director, fire chiefs, instructors, and others from the fire community; (6) Utilizes individuals who hold a current and valid certificate to teach in accordance with Chapter 4765-21 of the Administrative Code; (a) Instructors shall be employed or contracted by the chartered program; and (b) Instructors shall only teach courses at or below the level of an instructor's certificate to practice. (7) Has a sufficient number of instructors to ensure that the ratio of students to instructors does not exceed five to one during all practical skills instruction or evaluation; (8) For all approved classifications, possesses, or has access through current and valid affiliation agreements, to equipment, apparatus, burn facilities, props, and supplies that are necessary to instruct and test all course performance objectives, meet current standards, and are in a sufficient quantity for the number of students and instructors participating in each course: (a) Ensures all equipment, burn facilities, and apparatus are inspected and maintained in accordance with manufacturers' recommendations; (b) Ensures all burn facilities and apparatus are in compliance with applicable NFPA standards, including but not limited to: (i) Personal protective clothing shall be inspected, maintained, and tested in accordance with applicable requirements of "NFPA 1851"; (ii) Self-contained breathing apparatus shall be inspected, maintained, and tested in accordance with applicable requirements of "NFPA 1852"; (iii) Fire apparatus, fire pumps, and aerial devices shall be inspected, maintained, and tested in accordance with applicable requirements of "NFPA 1911"; (iv) Live burn facilities shall be constructed, inspected, and maintained in accordance with applicable requirements of "NFPA 1403;" (v) Fire hose shall be inspected and tested in accordance with applicable requirements of "NFPA 1962"; (vi) Fire extinguishers shall be inspected and tested in accordance with applicable requirements of "NFPA 10"; (vii) Ground ladders shall be inspected and service tested in accordance with applicable requirements of "NFPA 1932"; (9) Has sufficient classroom and laboratory facilities to accommodate the number of students participating in each course; (10) Has a computer lab, or has access to a computer lab through an affiliation agreement, that meets the requirements as set forth in rule 4765-24-20 of the Administrative Code; (11) Has comprehensive current publications, media resources, and electronic resources relating to fire services, as well as the minimum curriculum for firefighter, fire safety inspector, hazard recognition officer, and instructor courses as established under section 4765.55 of the Revised Code and this chapter; (12) Has and maintains one fixed geographic location within the boundaries of the state of Ohio where a chartered program is operated and where training is conducted, including an office in a fixed geographic location where records are maintained. Such location shall not consist of a house trailer, residence, tent, temporary stand, rooming house, apartment, post office box, or in a room in a hotel or motel; (13) Provides classroom environments that are safe, sanitary, and conducive to learning; (14) Possesses financial resources that are sufficient for the operation of the program in the manner set forth in the application for a charter; (15) Has written policies approved by its advisory committee and made available to each student that include all of the following: (a) Methodology used in determining grades; (b) Methodology used to document missed hours and record makeup procedures for completing all course hours; (c) Criteria for successful completion of the training course; (d) Procedures, including timelines, for certification examination second and third attempts and student remediation opportunities; (e) Establish writen procedures for investigating any complaint, allegation, and/or concern about an unethical and/or inappropriate practice, ensuring protection of the rights of an individual, the integrity of an examination, and any result of an examination; (f) Grounds for dismissal from the course; (g) Disciplinary and grievance procedures including mechanism for appeals; (h) Procedures for voluntary student withdrawals from the course; (i) Procedures for refunding tuition payments; (j) Admission requirements; (k) Requirements or restrictions regarding student attire; (l) Costs associated with the training course, including tuition, materials, and fees; (m) Information regarding course schedules, content, and objectives; (n) Prohibition against discrimination towards students on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, or national origin; (o) Prohibition against students being assigned emergency response duties during scheduled classroom instruction or practical training during firefighter, fire safety inspector, hazard recognition officer, or instructor training; (p) Procedures for reporting accidents and injuries sustained during a course; (q) Procedures for conducting live fire training that meet the current edition of "NFPA 1403"; (r) Procedures to follow during extreme weather conditions; (s) Requirements that equipment, apparatus, burn facilities, props, and supplies meet the current editions of NFPA as required in paragraph (A)(8) of this rule; (t) Security parameters that protect the students' financial and personal information in accordance with state and federal laws; (u) Healthcare services available to students by or through the chartered program. (B) In addition to the requirements set forth in paragraph (A) of this rule, a training institution issued a charter under section 4765.55 of the Revised Code and this chapter shall: (1) Conduct at least one course at each authorized classification level per cycle. (a) Conducting a firefighter course at the highest approved classification level fulfills the requirement to teach firefighter courses at lower classification levels. (b) Conducting a fire safety inspector course fulfills the requirement to teach a hazard recognition officer course. (2) Submit each course request to the division for approval, using the division's course management system, at least fourteen days prior to the start of each course; (3) Enter all data for each course in the timelines required by the division into the division's course management system database including but not limited to the following: (a) Course type; (b) Course level; (c) Course for high school or adult education; (d) Course start date; (e) Course projected end date; (f) Course total hours; (g) Course/examination location; (h) Course instructors; (i) Required course documents; (j) "National Incident Management System Course IS-100," "National Incident Management System Course IS-200," and "National Incident Management System Course IS-700" results for each student; (k) Course practical examination pass/fail results for each student; (l) Course completion certificate date for each student; (m) "Emergency Vehicle Operations Course" completion date for each student; (n) Course written examination pass/fail results for each student; (o) Course written examination score for each student; (p) Program director attestation for each student. (4) Assure compliance with examination administration requirements as specified in rules 4765-24-20 and 4765-24-21 of the Administrative Code; (5) Require each student enrolled in a firefighter, fire safety inspector, hazard recognition officer, fire and emergency services instructor, or live fire instructor course to have course materials that meet the course objectives as set forth in this chapter of the Administrative Code; (6) Require student attendance in accordance with the following: (a) Attendance is required in all firefighter, fire safety inspector, hazard recognition officer, and instructor courses; (b) All absences from a scheduled class shall be documented; (c) Any absences from a scheduled class shall be made up and accurately documented in a manner approved by the program director. (7) Keep accurate attendance records for each course in a manner acceptable to the program director; (8) Complete accident and injury reports required for all accidents or injuries occurring during a training course, regardless of hospitalization; (9) Provide regular evaluations of student performance and achievement throughout each course including written and practical skills examinations as set forth in rules 4765-24-20 and 4765-24-21 of the Administrative Code; (10) Use performance objective check-off sheets approved by the executive director to document completion of course objectives; (11) Ensure each student meets all course completion requirements prior to issuance of a certificate of course completion; (12) Issue a certificate of course completion to each student who meets all course completion requirements prior to certification testing; (13) Require that all students are notified of the process and time lines for obtaining a firefighter, fire safety inspector, hazard recognition officer, or instructor certificate issued by the executive director pursuant to section 4765.55 of the Revised Code and Chapters 4765-20 and 4765-21 of the Administrative Code; (14) Require each student to conduct written evaluations of instructor performance at least once for each course; (15) Require the program director to conduct written evaluations of each instructor's performance for at least one course per charter cycle within each classification taught using the following guidelines: (a) Evaluating an instructor teaching a firefighter course at the highest level fulfills the requirement to evaluate an instructor at the lower classification levels. (b) The program director may delegate instructor evaluations as long as the program director approves the evaluation. (16) Conduct written evaluations of the courses including content of each course; (17) Allow access by the division to student firefighter, fire safety inspector, hazard recognition officer, and instructor training records to verify successful completion of all certification requirements as set forth in Chapters 4765-20, 4765-21, and this chapter of the Administrative Code; (18) Allow the division to review instructor records in order to verify compliance with Chapter 4765-21 of the Administrative Code; (19) Allow the division to review program materials and monitor the examination processes utilized by the chartered program; (20) Allow site inspections by the division; (21) Maintain written or electronic documentation of compliance with this chapter, for all courses required for state certification; (22) The following information for each class, as appropriate per classification, shall be required documentation: (a) Lesson plans, course schedules, course locations, and policies in compliance with this chapter; (b) Evaluations of instructors' and students' performance; (c) Attendance records for each course conducted by the chartered program demonstrating completion of required hours; (d) Accident and injury reports; (e) Completed check-off sheets documenting that each student met required course objectives; (f) Documentation of current and valid student and instructor certificates including, but not limited to, firefighter, fire safety inspector, hazard recognition officer, and instructor certificates, as applicable; (g) Affiliation agreements as set forth in this rule; (h) Documentation of compliance with admission requirements for all courses required for state certification including, but not limited to, firefighter, fire safety inspector, hazard recognition officer, and instructor courses; (i) The minutes of advisory committee meetings including an agenda, discussion of issues, and attendance record for each meeting that is conducted in accordance with this rule; (j) Documentation of compliance with "NFPA 1403" on live fire training to include, but not limited to: (i) Burn facility inspection records; (ii) Burn facility maintenance records; (iii) Burn building floor plans; (iv) Burn facility site plans; (v) Pre-burn and post-burn procedures; (vi) Student prerequisites; (vii) Instructor, student, support personnel, and apparatus assignments, to include rest and rehabilitation, for each evolution; (viii) Written learning objectives for all evolutions; (ix) Temperature monitoring of all live burn evolutions; (x) Instructor to student ratio. (k) Documentation of student completion of "National Incident Management System Course IS-700," "National Incident Management System Course ICS-100" or the online equivalent, and "National Incident Management System Course IS-200" as required; (l) Documentation of student completion of an approved emergency vehicle operations course; (m) Documentation of student completion of an approved hazardous materials awareness and operations course; (n) Documentation of completion of "Courage to be Safe: Sixteen Life Safety Initiatives Course"; (o) Documentation of student completion of minimum emergency medical care performance capabilities as required by the current edition of "NFPA 1001"; (p) State knowledge and practical skills examination documentation for each student; (q) Compliance with all written policies and procedures. (C) In addition to the requirements set forth in paragraphs (A) and (B) of this rule, a training institution issued a charter under section 4765.55 of the Revised Code and this chapter, during the charter cycle for each classification held, shall meet one of the following: (1) Not less than sixty-five per cent of the training program's students who take the written portion of the initial certification examination shall receive a passing score on their first attempt to pass the examination, or (2) Not less than eighty per cent of the training program's students who take the written portion of the initial certification examination shall receive a passing score. (D) Every twenty-four months the executive director shall review the passing percentage requirement established in this rule to determine whether the requirement needs to be amended. (E) Secondary school public safety programs shall complete all curricula requirements for firefighter I, firefighter II transition, or firefighter I and II as set forth in rules 4765-24-11, 4765-24-12, and 4765-24-13 of the Administrative Code, as applicable. (F) The authorizing official of a training institution shall serve as the program director unless the authorizing official designates a program director with a good reputation who assumes responsibility for program oversight. (1) The program director shall ensure compliance with this chapter and all rules and laws applicable to the administration of all firefighter, fire safety inspector, hazard recognition officer, and instructor courses; (2) The designation of a program director does not alleviate the authorizing official of the responsibility for compliance with this chapter and all rules and laws applicable to the administration of all firefighter, fire safety inspector, hazard recognition officer, and instructor courses. (G) A charter issued under section 4765.55 of the Revised Code and this chapter shall be valid for three years and may be renewed according to guidelines established in rule 4765-24-05 of the Administrative Code. (H) A chartered program shall maintain all documentation required in this rule for the duration of the current and previous charter cycle. Revocation or voluntary surrender of a charter does not alleviate a chartered program of this requirement. In the event of charter or classification expiration, voluntary surrender, or revocation, the chartered program shall maintain all documentation required in this rule for six years from the date the expiration, voluntary surrender, or revocation. (I) If a chartered program is utilizing a location outside of the state of Ohio, the chartered program shall comply with this chapter of the Administrative Code and any applicable law, rules, or regulations in that state. Last updated July 8, 2024 at 10:39 AM Supplemental Information |
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Rule 4765-24-04 | Application for a fire charter.
[Comment: For dates and availability of material incorporated by reference in this rule see rule 4765-25-02 of the Administrative Code.] (A) An applicant for a charter to provide firefighter, fire safety inspector, hazard recognition officer, or instructor courses, issued pursuant to section 4765.55 of the Revised Code and this chapter, shall submit a completed "Fire Charter Application" to the division. (B) There shall be no application fee for a fire charter issued under this chapter. (C) An application that is not filled out in the manner specified may be deemed incomplete by the executive director. Incomplete applications will not be considered by the executive director. Last updated October 26, 2023 at 12:46 PM Supplemental Information |
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Rule 4765-24-05 | Renewal of a fire charter.
[Comment: For dates and availability of material incorporated by reference in this rule see rule 4765-25-02 of the Administrative Code.] (A) The executive director shall make the "Fire Charter Renewal Application" available to each chartered program seeking renewal. (1) The application shall be made available no later than ninety days prior to the current charter's expiration date; (2) The application for renewal shall clearly indicate the date by which it shall be completed and received by the division. (B) An application to renew a charter shall be received by the division no later than the thirtieth day prior to the expiration date of the current charter cycle. (C) A chartered fire training institution may continue to conduct courses within approved classifications beyond the expiration date of the charter if the charter has submitted a completed "Fire Charter Application" to the division in accordance with paragraph (B) of this rule. Approval to continue to conduct courses is dependent on the program remaining in good standing and may continue until the charter renewal process is complete. (D) The executive director shall renew a fire charter within one hundred twenty days of receipt of the application that meets the following requirements: (1) Submits a completed "Fire Charter Renewal Application" to the division received no later than the thirtieth day prior to the expiration date of the current charter cycle; (2) Demonstrates compliance with the requirements as set forth in section 4765.55 of the Revised Code and rule 4765-24-03 of the Administrative Code; (3) Has conducted at least one course at each authorized classification level in the most recent charter cycle; (a) Conducting a firefighter course at the highest approved classification level fulfills the requirement to teach firefighter courses at lower classification levels. (b) Conducting a fire safety inspector course fulfills the requirement to teach a hazard recognition officer course. (4) During the charter cycle, for each classification held, the training program met one of the following: (a) Not less than sixty-five per cent of the training program's students who took the written portion of the initial certification examination received a passing score on their first attempt to pass the examination; or (b) Not less than eighty per cent of the training program's students who took the written portion of the initial certification examination received a passing score within three attempts. (E) Failure to submit an application to the division by the thirtieth day prior to the expiration date of the charter shall result in expiration of the charter. An institution with an expired charter shall not conduct firefighter, fire safety inspector, hazard recognition officer, or instructor courses. (F) Documentation requirements: (1) A chartered program shall maintain all documentation required in this rule for the duration of the current and previous charter cycles. Revocation or voluntary surrender of a charter does not alleviate a chartered program of this requirement. (2) In the event of charter or classification voluntary surrender or revocation, the chartered program shall maintain all documentation required in this rule for six years from the date of the voluntary surrender or revocation. (G) An institution with an expired charter that wishes to conduct firefighter, fire safety inspector, hazard recognition officer, or instructor courses shall reinstate as set forth in rule 4765-24-07 of the Administrative Code. (H) The division may conduct site inspections in order to determine whether a chartered program remains in compliance with the requirements of this chapter. Last updated July 8, 2024 at 10:39 AM Supplemental Information |
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Rule 4765-24-06 | Notification to executive director.
[Comment: For dates and availability of material incorporated by reference in this rule see rule 4765-25-02 of the Administrative Code.] (A) Each chartered program shall provide written notice to the division no later than ten days after a change in any of the following: (1) Mailing address; (2) Program director name and/or contact information; (3) Authorizing official name and/or contact information; (4) Test proctors; (5) Program email address. (B) Prior to implementation, each chartered program shall submit a written request to the division, and receive approval from the executive director of proposed changes in any of the following: (1) Fixed geographic location where the chartered program is operating and training is conducted, including the office where records are maintained; (2) Live fire training facilities; (3) Offsite locations; (4) "Written Testing Agreement," when it involves a change in location, facilities, program director, or authorizing official; (5) Program-specific course objectives or check-off sheets; (6) Program name; (7) Volunteer firefighter course curriculum. Last updated July 8, 2024 at 10:39 AM Supplemental Information |
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Rule 4765-24-07 | Reinstatement of an expired or voluntarily surrendered fire charter or classification.
[Comment: For dates and availability of material incorporated by reference in this rule see rule 4765-25-02 of the Administrative Code.] (A) A fire charter or classification that has expired or was voluntarily surrendered shall be reinstated by the executive director, if all of the following apply: (1) A completed "Fire Charter Application" is submitted to the division no later than three years after the charter expired or was voluntarily surrendered; (2) The application must indicate it is a request for reinstatement; (3) The applicant is in compliance with the requirements of section 4765.55 of the Revised Code and rules 4765-24-02 to 4765-24-03 of the Administrative Code; (4) At the time the charter or classification expired or was voluntarily surrendered, the charter was in compliance with the requirements of section 4765.55 of the Revised Code and rules 4765-24-02 to 4765-24-03 of the Administrative Code, was in good standing, and was not under investigation or disciplinary action for any violations of this chapter. (B) The division shall review all records and documents related to the cycle in which the charter expired or was voluntarily surrendered and the previous charter cycle. Failure to permit access to requested records and documents may result in denial of the application. (C) An applicant whose charter or classification expired or was voluntarily surrendered within the time period for reinstatement is not eligible for a new certificate under rule 4765-24-02 of the Administrative Code. Last updated July 8, 2024 at 10:39 AM Supplemental Information |
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Rule 4765-24-08 | Reinstatement of a revoked fire charter or classification.
[Comment: For dates and availability of material incorporated by reference in this rule see rule 4765-25-02 of the Administrative Code.] (A) In accordance with the parameters set forth in this rule, the executive director may reinstate a charter or classification that has previously been revoked, if the applicant's charter or classification has been revoked for at least one year, but no more than three years from the date the executive director's revocation order was journalized. (B) In order to be eligible for reinstatement, the applicant shall: (1) Submit a completed "Fire Charter Application" to the division; (2) The application must indicate it is a request for reinstatement; (3) Have previously held a charter or classification at the level of reinstatement sought; (4) Have maintained all chartered program records required by rule 4765-24-03 of the Administrative Code for the cycle in which the charter was revoked and one previous charter cycle for review by the division; (5) Meet all requirements for the issuance of a charter as set forth in rule 4765-24-03 of the Administrative Code; (6) Meet all requirements for the provision of a classification as set forth in rule 4765-24-02 of the Administrative Code. (C) In addition to meeting the requirements for a charter and classification as set forth in this chapter, the executive director may take into consideration other relevant factors when determining whether to grant a request for reinstatement. These factors include, but are not limited to the following: (1) The nature and severity of the acts that resulted in the revocation of the applicant's charter or classification; (2) The time that has elapsed since the revocation; (3) Evidence of additional violations occurring after the revocation; (4) Compliance with previous executive director orders or consent agreements. (D) The executive director shall not reinstate a charter or classification if any of the following apply: (1) The applicant's charter or classification was permanently revoked by the executive director; (2) The applicant's charter or classification has not been revoked for at least one year from the date the executive director's revocation order was journalized. (3) The applicant's charter or classification has been revoked for more than three years. Such applicant shall apply for a new charter or classification in accordance with rules 4765-24-02 and 4765-24-03 of the Administrative Code. Last updated July 8, 2024 at 10:39 AM Supplemental Information |
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Rule 4765-24-09 | Volunteer firefighter course.
[Comment: For dates and availability of material incorporated by reference in this rule see rule 4765-25-02 of the Administrative Code.] (A) A training course for a volunteer firefighter certification shall consist of not more than thirty-six hours of training: (1) The course shall meet the volunteer firefighter course objectives approved by the executive director, with advice and counsel of the committee as provided in the "Volunteer Firefighter Course Packet." (2) The volunteer firefighter course curriculum shall be approved by the division prior to delivery. (B) A chartered fire training program shall use the "Volunteer Firefighter Course Objectives Check-Off Sheet Packet" and "Volunteer Firefighter Practical Skills Examination Packet" approved by the executive director with advice and counsel of the committee, when conducting a volunteer firefighter training course. (C) A chartered program shall admit only those individuals who meet the following requirements into a volunteer firefighter course: (1) Is at least eighteen years of age, except that a chartered program may admit a student who is seventeen years old into a post-secondary volunteer firefighter course provided that the student has graduated or is enrolled in the twelfth or final grade in a secondary school program; (2) Meets all admission requirements established by the chartered program. (D) Volunteer firefighter course instructors shall be appointed by the program director in accordance with the following: (1) Each instructor shall hold a current and valid firefighter certificate in accordance with Chapter 4765-20 of the Administrative Code; (2) Each instructor shall hold a current and valid certificate to teach in accordance with Chapter 4765-21 of the Administrative Code. (E) The training requirements listed in paragraph (A) of this rule shall commence and end within a consecutive twelve-month period. (F) A chartered program shall not allow students enrolled in a volunteer firefighter training course to participate in any training involving immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH) environments to include any live fire training. Last updated July 8, 2024 at 10:39 AM Supplemental Information |
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Rule 4765-24-10 | Firefighter I transition course.
[Comment: For dates and availability of material incorporated by reference in this rule see rule 4765-25-02 of the Administrative Code.] (A) A training course to transition a certified volunteer firefighter to the firefighter I certification level shall consist of at least one hundred twenty-four hours and shall include all of the following: (1) A minimum of ninety-six hours that meets the general knowledge requirements, general skill requirements, and the job performance requirements specified in "NFPA 1001" for firefighter I, as set forth in the firefighter I course objectives approved by the executive director, with advice and counsel of the committee as provided in the "Firefighter I Transition Course Packet"; (2) A minimum of twenty-four hours of hazardous materials awareness and operations level training that meets the mission-specific competencies specified in "NFPA 1072" as required by "NFPA 1001," and the objectives as set forth in the "Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations Course Packet" approved by the executive director, with advice and counsel of the committee; (3) "Courage to be Safe: Sixteen Life Safety Initiatives Course" totaling at least four hours. (B) A chartered fire training program may reorganize or add to the program-specific course objectives and objective check-off sheets to align with the program's course schedule. (1) All program-specific course objectives and objective check-off sheets shall meet all of the requirements as outlined in the firefighter I course objectives provided in the "Firefighter I Transition Course Packet"; (2) Program-specific course objectives and objective check-off sheets shall be approved by the division prior to implementation; (3) A chartered program that chooses to reorganize or add to the program-specific course objectives and objective check-off sheets shall provide a cross reference to the firefighter I course objectives provided in the "Firefighter I Transition Course Packet" to assist with program review. (C) A chartered fire training program shall use the firefighter I practical skills sheets approved by the executive director, with advice and counsel of the committee, when conducting practical skills testing for state certification. (D) A chartered program shall admit only those individuals who meet the following requirements into a firefighter I transition course: (1) Is at least eighteen years of age; (2) Holds a current and valid volunteer firefighter certificate, in good standing; (3) Meets "NFPA 1001" chapter 1 entrance requirements; (4) Meets all admission requirements established by the chartered program. (E) Firefighter I transition course instructors shall be appointed by the program director in accordance with the following: (1) Each instructor shall hold a current and valid firefighter I or firefighter II certificate in accordance with Chapter 4765-20 of the Administrative Code. (2) Each instructor shall hold a current and valid certificate to teach in accordance with Chapter 4765-21 of the Administrative Code. (F) The training requirements listed in paragraph (A) of this rule shall commence and end within a consecutive twelve-month period. (G) Prior to being permitted to participate in live fire training evolutions, students shall meet the minimum prerequisites in accordance with "NFPA 1403" chapter 4. Last updated July 8, 2024 at 10:40 AM Supplemental Information |
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Rule 4765-24-11 | Firefighter I course.
[Comment: For dates and availability of material incorporated by reference in this rule see rule 4765-25-02 of the Administrative Code.] (A) A training course for a firefighter I certificate shall consist of at least one hundred sixty hours and shall include all of the following: (1) A minimum of one hundred thirty-two hours of firefighter training that meets the general knowledge requirements, general skill requirements, and the job performance requirements specified in "NFPA 1001" for firefighter I, as set forth in the firefighter I course objectives approved by the executive director, with advice and counsel of the committee as provided in the "Firefighter I Course Packet"; (2) A minimum of twenty-four hours of hazardous materials awareness and operations level training that meets the mission-specific competencies specified in "NFPA 1072" as required by "NFPA 1001," and the objectives as set forth in the "Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations Course Packet" approved by the executive director, with advice and counsel of the committee; (3) "Courage to be Safe: Sixteen Life Safety Initiatives Course" totaling at least four hours. (B) A chartered fire training program may reorganize or add to the program-specific course objectives and objective check-off sheets to align with the program's course schedule. (1) All program-specific course objectives and objective check-off sheets shall meet all of the requirements as outlined in the firefighter I course objectives provided in the "Firefighter I Course Packet;" (2) Program-specific course objectives and objective check-off sheets shall be approved by the division prior to implementation; (3) A chartered program that chooses to reorganize or add to the program-specific course objectives and objective check-off sheets shall provide a cross reference to the firefighter I course objectives provided in the "Firefighter I Course Packet" to assist with program review. (C) A chartered fire training program shall use the firefighter I practical skills sheets approved by the executive director when conducting practical skills testing for state certification. (D) A chartered program shall admit only those individuals who meet the following requirements into a firefighter I course: (1) Is at least eighteen years of age, except as permitted in paragraphs (G) and (H) of this rule; (2) Meets "NFPA 1001" chapter 1 entrance requirements; (3) Demonstrates a pre-determined level of cognitive proficiency by one of the following methods: (a) Through successful completion of a cognitive-based pre-admission assessment or examination such as the ACT, SAT, Work Keys, Compass, Accuplacer, TABE, or equivalent; (b) Through achievement of a minimum high school or college GPA as determined by the charter program to be an appropriate indicator for successful completion of the program. (4) Meets all admission requirements established by the chartered program; (E) A chartered program shall determine the appropriate level of academic or cognitive performance that it deems an appropriate indicator for successful completion of the program. At the discretion of the chartered program, applicants who do not meet the minimum cognitive assessment score or academic performance level, as required in paragraph (D) of this rule, may be granted admission to a firefighter I course subsequent to completion of remediation. (F) A chartered program may admit a student who is seventeen years of age into a secondary or post-secondary firefighter I course provided that the student has graduated or is enrolled in the twelfth or final grade in a secondary school program. (G) A chartered program may admit a student into a secondary school firefighter I course who is sixteen years of age provided that the student is enrolled in the eleventh grade or twelfth grade in a secondary school public safety program. In the eleventh grade: (1) Participation shall be limited to classroom and practical skills activities associated with firefighter I course objectives; (2) The student is prohibited from participation in any training involving immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH) environments to include any live fire training. (H) Firefighter I course instructors shall be appointed by the program director in accordance with the following: (1) Each instructor shall hold a current and valid firefighter I or firefighter II certificate in accordance with Chapter 4765-20 of the Administrative Code. (2) Each instructor shall hold a current and valid certificate to teach in accordance with Chapter 4765-21 of the Administrative Code. (I) The training requirements listed in paragraph (A) of this rule shall commence and end within a consecutive twelve-month period. (J) Prior to being permitted to participate in live fire training evolutions, students shall meet the minimum prerequisites in accordance with "NFPA 1403" chapter 4. Last updated July 8, 2024 at 10:40 AM Supplemental Information |
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Rule 4765-24-12 | Firefighter II transition course.
[Comment: For dates and availability of material incorporated by reference in this rule see rule 4765-25-02 of the Administrative Code.] (A) A training course to transition a certified firefighter I to the firefighter II certification level shall consist of a minimum of eighty-four hours that meets the general knowledge requirements, general skill requirements, and the job performance requirements specified in "NFPA 1001" for firefighter II, as set forth in the firefighter II course objectives approved by the executive director, with advice and counsel of the committee as provided in the "Firefighter II Transition Course Packet"; (B) A chartered fire training program may reorganize or add to the program-specific course objectives and objective check-off sheets to align with the program's course schedule. (1) All program-specific course objectives and objective check-off sheets shall meet all of the requirements as outlined in the firefighter II course objectives provided in the "Firefighter II Transition Course Packet"; (2) Program-specific course objectives and objective check-off sheets shall be approved by the division prior to implementation; (3) A chartered program that chooses to reorganize or add to the program-specific course objectives and objective check-off sheets shall provide a cross reference to the firefighter II course objectives provided in the "Firefighter II Transition Course Packet" to assist with program review. (C) (D) A chartered fire training program shall use the firefighter II practical skills sheets approved by the executive director when conducting practical skills testing for state certification. (D) A chartered program shall admit only those individuals who meet the following requirements into a firefighter II transition course: (1) Is at least eighteen years of age, except as permitted in paragraph (E) of this rule; (2) Holds a current and valid firefighter I certificate, in good standing, for admission to a firefighter II transition course, except as permitted in paragraph (E) of this rule; (3) Has successfully completed a hazardous materials awareness and operations course; (4) Has successfully completed a "Courage to be Safe: Sixteen Life Safety Initiatives Course" totaling at least four hours; (5) Meets "NFPA 1001" chapter 1 entrance requirements; (6) Meets all admission requirements established by the chartered program. (E) A chartered program may admit a student who is sixteen or seventeen years of age into a firefighter II transition course, provided that the student has completed all firefighter I course requirements, holds a "Pending" Ohio firefighter I certificate in good standing as identified in the division database, and has graduated or is enrolled in the twelfth or final grade in a secondary school program. (F) Firefighter II course instructors shall be appointed by the program director in accordance with the following: (1) Each instructor shall hold a current and valid firefighter II certificate in accordance with Chapter 4765-20 of the Administrative Code; (2) Each instructor shall hold a current and valid certificate to teach in accordance with Chapter 4765-21 of the Administrative Code. (G) The training requirements listed in paragraph (A) of this rule shall commence and end within a consecutive twelve-month period. (H) Prior to being permitted to participate in live fire training evolutions, students shall meet the minimum prerequisites in accordance with "NFPA 1403" chapter 4. Last updated July 8, 2024 at 10:40 AM Supplemental Information |
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Rule 4765-24-13 | Firefighter I and II course.
[Comment: For dates and availability of material incorporated by reference in this rule see rule 4765-25-02 of the Administrative Code.] (A) A training course for a firefighter I and II certificate shall consist of at least two hundred forty-four hours and include all of the following: (1) A minimum of two hundred sixteen hours that meets the general knowledge requirements, general skill requirements, and the job performance requirements specified in "NFPA 1001" for firefighter I and firefighter II, as set forth in the firefighter I and II course objectives approved by the executive director, with advice and counsel of the committee as provided in the "Firefighter I and II Course Packet;" (2) A minimum of twenty-four hours of hazardous materials awareness and operations level training that meets the mission-specific competencies specified in "NFPA 1072" as required by "NFPA 1001," and the objectives as set forth in the "Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations Course Packet" approved by the executive director, with advice and counsel of the committee; (3) "Courage to Be Safe: Sixteen Life Safety Initiatives Course" totaling at least four hours. (B) A chartered fire training program may reorganize or add to the program-specific course objectives and objective check-off sheets to align with the program's course schedule. (1) All program-specific course objectives and objective check-off sheets shall meet all of the requirements as outlined in the firefighter I and II course objectives provided in the "Firefighter I and II Course Packet"; (2) Program-specific course objectives and objective check-off sheets shall be approved by the division prior to implementation; (3) A chartered program that chooses to recognize or add to the program-specific course objectives and objective check-off sheets shall provide a cross reference to the firefighter I and II course objectives provided in the "Firefighter I and II Course Packet" to assist with program review. (C) A chartered fire training program shall use the firefighter I and II practical skills sheets approved by the executive director when conducting practical skills testing for state certification. (D) A chartered program shall admit only those individuals who meet the following requirements into a firefighter I and II course: (1) Is at least eighteen years of age, except as permitted in paragraphs (F) and (G) of this rule; (2) Meets "NFPA 1001" chapter 1 entrance requirements; (3) Demonstrates a pre-determined level of cognitive proficiency by one of the following methods: (a) Through successful completion of a cognitive-based pre-admission assessment or examination such as the ACT, SAT, Work Keys, Compass, Accuplacer, TABE, or equivalent; (b) Through achievement of a minimum high school or college GPA as determined by the charter program to be an appropriate indicator for successful completion of the program. (4) Shall meet all admission requirements established by the chartered program. (E) A chartered program shall determine the appropriate level of academic or cognitive performance that it deems an appropriate indicator for successful completion of the program. At the discretion of the chartered program, applicants who do not meet the minimum cognitive assessment score or academic performance level, as required in paragraph (D) of this rule, may be granted admission to a firefighter I and II course subsequent to completion of remediation. (F) A chartered program may admit a student who is seventeen years of age into a secondary or post-secondary firefighter I and II course provided that the student has graduated or is enrolled in the twelfth or final grade in a secondary school program. (G) A chartered program may admit a student into a secondary school firefighter I and II course who is sixteen years of age provided that the student is enrolled in the eleventh grade in a secondary school public safety program. In the eleventh grade: (1) Participation shall be limited to classroom and practical skills activities associated with firefighter I course objectives; (2) The student is prohibited from participation in any training involving immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH) environments to include any live fire training. (H) Firefighter I and II course instructors shall be appointed by the program director in accordance with the following: (1) Each instructor shall hold a current and valid firefighter II certificate in accordance with Chapter 4765-20 of the Administrative Code. (2) Each instructor shall hold a current and valid certificate to teach in accordance with Chapter 4765-21 of the Administrative Code. (I) Except as permitted in paragraph (J) of this rule, the training requirements listed in paragraph (A) of this rule shall commence and end within a consecutive twelve-month period. (J) A firefighter I and II course provided in a secondary school public safety program shall commence and end within an eighteen-month period. (K) Prior to being permitted to participate in live fire training evolutions, students shall meet the minimum prerequisites in accordance with "NFPA 1403" chapter 4. Last updated July 8, 2024 at 10:40 AM Supplemental Information |
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Rule 4765-24-14 | Fire safety inspector and hazard recognition officer courses.
[Comment: For dates and availability of material incorporated by reference in this rule see rule 4765-25-02 of the Administrative Code.] (A) A training course for fire safety inspector certification shall consist of a minimum of eighty hours and shall meet both of the following training requirements: (1) The fire safety inspector course objectives set forth in the "Fire Safety Inspector Course Packet" approved by the executive director, with advice and counsel of the committee; (2) The performance objectives set forth in "NFPA 1031" for fire inspector I and II. (B) A training course for hazard recognition officer certification shall consist of a minimum of forty hours and shall meet both of the following training requirements: (1) The hazard recognition officer course objectives set forth in the "Hazard Recognition Officer Course Packet" approved by the executive director, with advice and counsel of the committee; (2) The performance objectives set forth in "NFPA 1031" for fire inspector I. (C) A chartered program shall admit only those individuals who meet the following requirements into a fire safety inspector or hazard recognition officer course: (1) Is at least eighteen years of age; (2) Holds a current and valid firefighter certificate issued pursuant to Chapter 4765-20 of the Administrative Code; (3) Meets all admission requirements established by the chartered program. (D) In addition to the requirements for admission as set forth in paragraph (C) of this rule, the chartered program shall require each student to be employed by one of the following in order to be eligible for admission into a fire safety inspector course: (1) The office of the state fire marshal; (2) A firefighting agency as defined in division (A)(3) of section 9.60 of the Revised Code; (3) A private fire company as defined in division (A)(5) of section 9.60 of the Revised Code that is providing fire protection in accordance with division (B), (C), or (D) of section 9.60 of the Revised Code. (E) The training requirements listed in paragraphs (A) and (B) of this rule shall commence and end within a consecutive twelve-month period. Last updated July 8, 2024 at 10:40 AM Supplemental Information |
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Rule 4765-24-15 | Fire and emergency services instructor, and live fire instructor courses.
[Comment: For dates and availability of material incorporated by reference in this rule see rule 4765-25-02 of the Administrative Code.] (A) A training course for fire and emergency services instructor I and II shall be competency-based, be taught by an instructor trainer under the auspices of a chartered or accredited program, and meets the course objectives as set forth in the "Fire and Emergency Services Instructor Course Packet." (B) Applicants seeking only fire and emergency services instructor I certification shall: (1) Complete all course requirements for fire and emergency services instructor I as set forth in the "Fire and Emergency Services Instructor Course Packet"; (2) Pass the fire and emergency services instructor I certification examination, within three attempts and within one hundred eighty days of course completion. (C) A person seeking certification as a fire and emergency services instructor who holds at least a bachelor's degree in education may be granted credit for the fire and emergency services instructor I and II course if they: (1) Submit a written request to the division; (2) Provide a copy of their diploma and transcript; (3) Receive written approval to test from the division; and (4) Pass the fire and emergency services instructor I and II certification examination within three attempts and within one hundred eighty days of receiving written approval to test. (D) Upon certification, those applicants meeting the requirements listed in paragraph (A), (B), or (C) of this rule must maintain their provider certification(s) and be approved to teach provider certification courses by a program director. (E) The executive director shall consider relevant education, training, or service completed by the holder of a certificate to practice as a member of the armed forces of the United States, the Ohio national guard, the Ohio military reserve, the Ohio naval militia, or the national guard of any other state or a reserve component of the armed forces of the United States in determining whether the holder of a certificate to practice has met the experience and educational requirements for a certificate to teach as set forth in paragraph (A) of this rule. (F) Fire and emergency services instructor courses, as set forth in this rule, shall be provided under the auspices of an accredited or chartered program and be taught by a fire and emergency services instructor II appointed as an instructor trainer by the program director in accordance with this rule. (G) Live fire instructor course: (1) A course for live fire instructor training shall be a minimum of twenty-four hours, taught under the auspices of a chartered program, and meet the course objectives as set forth in the "Live Fire Training-Operations Level Course" or the "Live Fire Instructor Course Packet." (2) To be eligible to deliver the "Live Fire Instructor Course," a chartered program shall hold a live fire instructor classification issued in accordance with rule 4765-24-02 of the Administrative Code and meet the "Live Fire Training-Operations Level Course" prerequisites as set forth in the "Live Fire Training-Operations Level Course" curriculum or the "Live Fire Instructor Course Packet." (3) A live fire instructor course shall be taught by a live fire instructor trainer, appointed by the program director, who meets the minimum instructor requirements as set forth in the "Live Fire Training-Operations Level Course" curriculum or the "Live Fire Instructor Course Packet." (4) A chartered program shall admit into a "Live Fire Training-Operations Level Course" only those individuals who meet the admission requirements as set forth in the "Live Fire Training-Operations Level Course" curriculum or the "Live Fire Instructor Course Packet." (H) The executive director shall consider relevant education, training, or service completed by the holder of a certificate to practice as a member of the armed forces of the United States, the Ohio national guard, the Ohio military reserve, the Ohio naval militia, or the national guard of any other state or a reserve component of the armed forces of the United States in determining whether the holder of a certificate to practice has met the experience and educational requirements for a certificate to teach as set forth in paragraph (G) of this rule. (I) Live fire instructor courses shall be provided under the auspices of a chartered program and be taught by a fire and emergency services instructor II who also holds a live fire instructor certificate, appointed by the program director in accordance with this rule. (J) The program director shall ensure that the live fire instructor trainer meets all of the following: (1) Holds current and valid firefighter II, fire and emergency services instructor II, and live fire instructor certificates, that are in good standing, issued under rules 4765-20-02 and 4765-21-03 of the Administrative Code; (2) Has held a live fire instructor certification for at least three years; and (3) Has completed an orientation by the program director. Last updated July 8, 2024 at 10:41 AM Supplemental Information |
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Rule 4765-24-17 | Fire and emergency services instructor, and live fire instructor.
[Comment: For dates and availability of material incorporated by reference in this rule see rule 4765-25-02 of the Administrative Code.] (A) Fire and emergency services instructor and live fire instructor courses, as set forth in rule 4765-24-15 of the Administrative Code, shall be provided under the auspices of a chartered program and shall be taught by a fire and emergency services instructor II trainer appointed by the program director in accordance with this rule. (B) The program director shall ensure that the fire and emergency services instructor II meets all of the following: (1) Holds a current and valid fire certificate to teach as a fire and emergency services instructor II, that is in good standing, issued under Chapter 4765-18 or 4765-21 of the Administrative Code; (2) Has held a valid certificate to teach as a fire and emergency services instructor II, that is in good standing, for at least three years; or (3) Has at least three years of other educational experience that includes demonstrable ability in teaching, developing lesson plans and course materials, managing classroom resources, and managing and evaluating students; (4) Demonstrates effective oral and written communication skills; (5) Any additional program director requirements; and (6) Has completed an instructor trainer orientation by the program director. (C) The program director shall ensure that the live fire instructor instructor trainer meets all of the following: (1) Holds current and valid firefighter II, fire and emergency services instructor II, and live fire instructor certificates, that are in good standing, issued under rules 4765-20-02 and 4765-21-03 of the Administrative Code; (2) Has held a live fire instructor certification for at least three years; and (3) Any additional program director requirements. (D) The program director assumes responsibility to select and maintain instructor trainers based upon documented evaluation of acceptable performance review. (E) The program director who is also an instructor trainer shall have documented evaluation of acceptable performance review conducted by the program director's supervisor. (F) The chartered program shall notify the division, in writing, whenever there is any change in instructor trainers. (G) The chartered program shall maintain written or electronic documentation of compliance with this rule. Last updated July 8, 2024 at 10:41 AM Supplemental Information |
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Rule 4765-24-18 | Fire charter offsite locations.
(A) The executive director, with advice and counsel of the committee, shall allow a chartered program to offer courses at different locations from the location listed in the application for chartering provided that all of the following apply: (1) The chartered program continues to operate at the location identified in the application for a charter; (2) The physical address of the chartered program shall be located within the boundaries of the state of Ohio and the majority of the training shall be delivered within the state of Ohio; (3) Each offsite location where the program is offered, meets the minimum standards for chartering as set forth in rule 4765-24-03 of the Administrative Code; (4) The instructors and practical skills evaluators are employed or contracted by the chartered program; (5) The chartered program submits a written request to the division and receives executive director approval prior to the start of the course. (B) Files and records of students enrolled in a fire training course conducted offsite may be maintained in a secure area at the offsite location until the course is completed, at which time all student files and records shall be maintained at the site of the chartered institution. The records shall be surrendered to the chartered program no later than thirty days after the final day of the course. (C) All equipment, apparatus, burn facilities, props, and supplies that are necessary to instruct and test all course performance objectives, including those at offsite locations, shall be inspected and maintained in accordance with manufacturers' recommendations and in compliance with all applicable NFPA standards as set forth in paragraph (A)(8) of rule 4765-24-03 of the Administrative Code. (D) All annual inspection and maintenance records for all equipment, and apparatus of all offsite locations shall be maintained at the offsite location. (E) All annual inspection and maintenance records for all offsite burn facilities shall be maintained at the location of the chartered institution. (F) The division reserves the right to conduct site visit inspections of offsite locations to ensure compliance with rule 4765-24-02 and rule 4765-24-03 of the Administrative Code. (G) The chartered program shall maintain a current and valid charter in order to offer courses at an offsite location. (H) Chartered programs may elect to utilize offsite locations outside the boundaries of the state of Ohio on a limited basis if: (1) There is a documented lack of required resources within that region of the state of Ohio; and (2) The majority of the training takes place within the boundaries of the state of Ohio; and (3) The offsite location complies with this chapter of the Administrative Code, all applicable NFPA standards, and any applicable laws, rules, and regulations in that state. Last updated July 8, 2024 at 10:41 AM Supplemental Information |
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Rule 4765-24-19 | Online education and distance learning for fire certification training courses offered through a chartered program.
(A) The executive director, with the advice and counsel of the committee, may approve a chartered program to provide fire certification training courses online or through distance learning, as defined in rule 4765-25-01 of the Administrative Code, if the chartered program meets the following requirements: (1) The chartered program shall submit a written request to the division to offer online education or distance learning. (a) The request shall indicate the level or levels of fire certification training proposed to be offered; (b) The request shall include documentation of how the chartered program meets the requirements set forth in this rule. (2) The chartered program shall submit course materials associated with the proposed course to the division for review and approval by the executive director, with advice and counsel of the committee. (B) In addition to the requirements specified in paragraph (A) of this rule, the chartered program shall: (1) Meet the requirements set forth in rule 4765-24-03 of the Administrative Code; (2) Possess a charter at the classification level(s) for which the chartered program seeks to provide the online education or distance learning; (3) Have maintained a charter at the classification level for which the chartered program seeks to provide online education or distance learning, for at least the preceding three full years from the date of application; (4) Have completed at least one fire certification training course in the traditional classroom setting at the classification level for which the chartered program seeks to provide the online education or distance learning; (5) Be in good standing as defined in rule 4765-25-01 of the Administrative Code; (6) Have written policies that will be made available to each student, regarding all of the following: (a) Admission requirements; (b) Minimum requirements for technological needs for students enrolling in fire certification training courses utilizing online education or distance learning including, but not limited to, hardware, software, and internet connection speed; (c) Technological support to be provided by the chartered program to include at a minimum the hours of support and the method(s) in which the support will be provided; (d) A schedule identifying weekly access to the instructors while the fire certification training course is in session to allow for direct communication between instructor and students, including, but not limited to, telephone numbers, email addresses, and office hours; (e) Security parameters protecting students' financial and personal information in accordance with state and federal laws; (f) Online procedures for course administration and completion; (g) Method to transition from online education and distance learning to the classroom version of the same course in order to complete the required training. This policy shall include a reasonable time frame in which the transition process must be completed. (7) Maintain the following for all fire certification training courses utilizing online education and distance learning: (a) A technology infrastructure that facilitates secure access, including user authentication and authorization procedures and technologies; (b) Access control procedures and technology that supports the courses utilizing online education systems; (c) Technological support to meet student needs; (d) An appropriate security solution to ensure course and systems integrity, especially financial and personal information; (e) A risk management plan to include identification of foreseen risks, continuity, disaster recovery, and incidence response; (f) Assurance that course data is readily, securely, and reliably available by electronic or printed means to the division and the division's authorized recipients; (g) A means to access student and program information to facilitate state audits to verify compliance with rules approved by the executive director. (i) If the technical support, application server host, or data storage facilities are located outside of the state of Ohio, the chartered program shall submit, upon request of the division, a report encompassing the rules of this chapter to meet the audit requirements. (ii) The chartered program shall provide the division with an audit amendment describing any significant system changes within thirty days of enabling those changes. An enterprise shall make student records available to the division online, in a password protected environment upon request. (8) Create and maintain a complete student course data file to demonstrate student activity and ensure that the following information, at a minimum, is collected and retained: (a) Student's name; (b) Dates and times of student activity in the training course and verification of the amount of total time spent utilizing the online education portion of the course; (c) The reason a student was suspended or failed to complete the online education portion of the fire certification training course; (d) Name or identity number of a chartered program staff member accessing or entering student records. (9) Ensure that the fire certification training course final examinations are administered and scored in a traditional classroom setting. (10) Ensure that each initial fire certification training course utilizing online education or distance learning meets all of the following: (a) Obtains prior written approval of the fire certification training course content from the program director; (b) Possesses written documentation of clear objectives, course content, and method of delivery that meets all curricula requirements as set forth in Chapter 4765-24 of the Administrative Code; (c) Obtains prior approval from the program director in order to utilize online education or distance learning for instruction; (d) Is developed or approved by an instructor under the auspices of a chartered program; (e) Ensures that the lecture portions of each fire certification training course may be taught utilizing online education, distance learning, or in the traditional classroom setting; (f) Ensures that instruction, practice, and testing in the practical skills portion of each fire certification training course shall not be provided through online education or distance learning; (g) Ensures that in-class public speaking presentations shall be: (i) Completed in the traditional classroom setting; (ii) Observed directly by an instructor trainer employed by a chartered fire training program; (iii) Shall be dispersed throughout the course so as to foster development of public speaking ability; (h) In-class public speaking presentations may be completed through online education or distance learning providing both of the following apply: (i) The presentations are conducted in a virtual, instructor-led (synchronous) training environment; and (ii) The request was approved by the division. (11) The chartered program shall require written evaluations, completed by each student, of each fire certification training course offered through online education or distance learning. The evaluation may be in electronic or hard copy formats and include, but not be limited to, the following: (a) Clarity of written policies associated with the chartered program; (b) Course content; (c) Means of delivery and systems availability; (d) Availability of certified instructors. (C) A chartered program approved to utilize online education or distance learning may do so in conjunction with traditional classroom-based instruction. (D) A chartered program approved to utilize online education or distance learning shall annually provide the division with information, statistics, and data specific to the fire certification training courses offered through online education or distance learning, in a manner approved by the division, as set forth in this rule and rule 4765-24-03 of the Administrative Code. (E) Approval by the executive director to conduct fire certification training courses utilizing online education or distance learning shall be specific to the level of training and type of delivery system requested. (F) A chartered program approved to utilize online education or distance learning shall maintain documentation that demonstrates compliance with the hours and curricula requirements set forth in this chapter of the Administrative Code. (G) A chartered program approved to utilize online education or distance learning shall ensure contact hours or competencies in the fire certification training courses are equal to or exceed the hours or competencies in the course packets. Last updated July 8, 2024 at 10:41 AM Supplemental Information |
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Rule 4765-24-20 | Written examination administration requirements.
[Comment: For dates and availability of material incorporated by reference in this rule see rule 4765-25-02 of the Administrative Code.] (A) A chartered program shall be permitted to administer the state certification examination, if the chartered program meets or exceeds the following requirements: (1) Has a current and valid charter; (2) Has a designated computer lab; (3) Has a signed "Written Testing Agreement" with the executive director that meets both of the following: (a) The agreement shall be for the current charter cycle; (b) Any changes in the content or signature authority shall require a newly executed "Written Testing Agreement." (4) Meets all requirements set forth in rule 4765-24-03 of the Administrative Code. (B) Program director shall: (1) Designate proctors to administer state written certification examinations; (2) Ensure each proctor has received training in the state examination process and is familiar with all registration, security, and access procedures for testing and test operation, as set forth by the division; (3) Ensure the integrity and security of all written examinations; (4) Ensure that all test provisions are complied with while each computer-based test administration session, including retest sessions, is in progress; (5) Ensure that only qualified candidates who have completed all certification eligibility requirements are permitted to sit for the examinations; (6) Immediately report to the division any potential compromise or threat of compromise of the examination process; (7) Ensure that a proctor is present in the examination room for the duration of the examination; (8) Ensure that the examination room is conducive for testing, including but not limited to, adequate heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting, and is free from excessive noise and distraction; (9) Ensure that the examination facility has adequate restroom facilities and adequate parking within reasonable distance to the facility; (10) Ensure that the examination room will be set up and ready for use prior to the scheduled examination time. (C) If the program director holds any EMS or fire certification issued by the division, then the program director shall designate a non-certificate holder to proctor the examination, and the program director shall not be present in the examination room. (D) Examination proctors, designated by the program director, shall: (1) Administer all written examinations; (2) Be trained in the state examination process and be familiar with all registration, security, and access procedures for testing and test operation, as set forth by the division; (3) Not hold any EMS or fire certification issued by the division; (4) Be present in the examination room for the entire duration of the examination; (5) Not permit anyone other than the proctor and students in the examination room; (6) Ensure that no personal electronic devices including, but not limited to, computers, tablets, or laptops are used for administering the examination; (7) Ensure that any person holding a current certification issued by the division is not present during the examination unless the individual is sitting for the examination as part of the course requirements; (8) Ensure that no unauthorized electronic devices including, but not limited to, personal laptops, cell phones, flash drives, and tablets are permitted in the examination room or used during the examination process; (9) Ensure each student is advised of the examination appeal process. (10) Immediately report to the program director any potential compromise or threat of compromise of the examination process. (E) A certification examination appeal shall be filed by the student to the program director within five days of the examination date. The appeal shall be in writing and include: (1) Name of examinee; (2) Contact information; (3) Specific examination taken; (4) Date, time, and location of examination; (5) Basis for the appeal; (6) Signature of the examinee. (F) The state certification examination shall not be used by the chartered program as the final examination for a course. (G) The executive director reserves the right to immediately suspend a chartered program's examination rights, if any of the following occur: (1) There is an allegation of an examination or security compromise; (2) There is a known examination or security compromise; (3) There is a potential violation of this rule; (4) Egregious violations of this chapter of the Administrative Code that warrant a suspension of examination rights. Last updated July 8, 2024 at 12:08 PM Supplemental Information |
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Rule 4765-24-21 | Practical skills examination administration requirements.
[Comment: For dates and availability of material incorporated by reference in this rule see rule 4765-25-02 of the Administrative Code.] (A) A chartered program shall be permitted to administer the state practical skills testing examination for firefighter, fire safety inspector, hazard recognition officer, and instructor certification, if the chartered program meets or exceeds the following requirements: (1) Has a current and valid charter; (2) Holds the classification(s) for the practical skills testing being administered; (3) Meets all requirements set forth in rule 4765-24-03 of the Administrative Code. (B) When administering state certification examinations, the charter program director shall: (1) Ensure the integrity and security of all practical skills examinations; (2) Supervise the practical skills examinations or designate a skills coordinator to supervise; (3) Ensure skills coordinator is responsible for the administration and set up of the practical skills examination; (4) Ensure skills coordinator sets up practical skills stations prior to the scheduled examination time; (5) Immediately report to the division any potential compromise of the examination process; (6) Allow only fire and emergency services instructors who have completed the "Practical Skills Evaluator Training Course" to evaluate students during firefighter, fire safety inspector, hazard recognition officer, and instructor practical skills examinations. Instructors shall not be permitted to evaluate practical skills examinations that are above the level of the instructor's certificate to practice; (7) Ensure that all practical skills evaluators receive annual practical skills evaluator refresher training; (8) Ensure skills coordinator does not permit lead instructors in the firefighter, fire safety inspector, hazard recognition officer, or instructor training course to evaluate any student on the specific skills examinations that were taught by the instructor; (9) Ensure the safety of the students by providing equipment, supplies, apparatus, and facilities that meet the performance objectives for firefighter I and firefighter II of the "NFPA 1001" for all firefighter practical skills examinations; (10) Ensure the safety of the students by providing equipment, supplies, and facilities that meet the performance objectives of the current version of "NFPA 1031" for all fire safety inspector and hazard recognition officer practical skills examinations; (11) Ensure the safety of the students by providing equipment, supplies, and facilities that meet the performance objectives of the current version of "NFPA 1041" for all fire and emergency services instructor practical skills examinations; (12) Ensure each student is advised of the examination appeal process. (C) The program director, or designated skills coordinator, and skill evaluators shall ensure a candidate is not permitted to directly observe another candidate during the practical skills examination. (D) A state certification examination appeal shall be filed by the student to the program director within five days of the examination date. The appeal shall be in writing and shall include: (1) Name of examinee; (2) Contact information; (3) Specific examination taken; (4) Date, time, and location of examination; (5) Basis for the appeal; (6) Signature of the examinee. (E) The program director shall report all appeals of the state certification examination to the division within five days of receipt. (F) The executive director reserves the right to immediately suspend a chartered program's examination rights, if any of the following occur: (1) There is an allegation of an examination or security compromise; (2) There is a known examination or security compromise; (3) There is a potential violation of this rule; (4) Egregious violations of this chapter of the Administrative Code that warrant a suspension of examination rights. Last updated July 8, 2024 at 12:08 PM Supplemental Information |
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Rule 4765-24-22 | Establishing Test Security and Reporting.
(A) All test questions and all other materials, which are considered part of a test, including, but not limited to, oral or written directions, shall be considered secure and prohibit any person from revealing any specific question and/or materials that are part of a test. (B) No person shall reveal, cause to be revealed, release, cause to be released, reproduce, or cause to be reproduced any secure test materials through any means or medium including, but not limited to, electronic, photographic, photocopy, written, paraphrase, or oral. (C) No unauthorized person shall be permitted to be in a test room during any test administration session or be permitted to have access to any secure test materials at any time. (D) Each fire charter shall establish written procedures to protect the security of computer-based examinations. (E) Each fire charter shall establish written procedures to protect the security of the online test in these areas, including, but not to be limited to, the following: (1) Investigating any alleged violation of a test security provision or any alleged unethical testing practice, including ensuring due process for any individual accused; (2) Determining an action or actions to be taken in response to any confirmed violation of the charter's security procedures, including, but not limited to: (a) Cheating by a student; (b) Anyone assisting a student to cheat; (c) Anyone compromising a student's test. (3) Determining whether to invalidate a student's test in response to a test security violation caused either by a student and/or by any other person; and (4) How the written procedures will be communicated in writing and discussed each school year with test proctors who have access to secure test materials, students enrolled in the fire charter who are being tested, and with any other person authorized to be present in a testing room and/or have access to any secure test materials. (F) Any alleged test security violation must be reported to the division as soon as it becomes known to the fire charter. (G) Upon receipt of information about an alleged test security violation, the fire charter shall open an investigation of the alleged test violation: (1) Within ten calendar days after the completion of the fire charter's investigation, a written incident report shall be filed with the division delineating the cause and results of the investigation including any corrective action taken; (2) After a determination that a test security violation has occurred, the division may take any necessary action or actions; (3) Each fire charter shall ensure the cooperation of all of its employees in any investigation that is conducted by the division pursuant to any allegation or other indication that a test security violation may have occurred. Last updated July 8, 2024 at 12:08 PM Supplemental Information |
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Rule 4765-24-23 | Incident reporting.
(A) All confirmed testing irregularities must be reported to the division using the incident report form. Test proctors must immediately notify the program director as soon as they are made aware of any alleged or suspected violations. The nature of allegations requires an immediate inquiry by the charter program in order to gather all necessary information while the involved individuals are still available and able to recall details. (B) Chartered programs must ensure that all testing personnel are aware of their obligation to report testing irregularities and can easily access reporting procedures. (C) All incident reports submitted to the division must meet reporting requirements by clearly laying out the sequence of events, including the program director's determination in the matter. (D) Program director is responsible for investigating confirmed or alleged testing violations and must notify the division as soon as the chartered program is made aware of the situation. At a minimum, each of the following items must be addressed by the chartered program when reporting testing violations: (1) Submission of an incident report: (a) Include the program director's determination of the incident (exactly what happened and why the incident occurred); (b) Explain how the incident was resolved; and (c) Prepare a timeline, if necessary, to establish when events occurred. (2) Submission of a typed, dated, and signed statement(s) from the candidate(s) involved, including: (a) Obtain separate typed, signed, and dated statements from all individuals who were involved in or may have information about the incident; (b) Verify that each statement includes the full name of the person submitting the statement, that person's role or title, and his or her signature. Statements should provide details about how the individual was involved with the reported irregularity. Individuals implicated in an irregularity report should respond to all allegations. (3) Describe a plan of action (describes the steps a charter will take to ensure that the irregularity does not reoccur; (4) Determine whether testing procedures were violated; (5) Determine exactly what happened and why it happened; (6) Determine who is responsible and how the error was discovered; (7) Address and resolve all discrepancies, if any, in the information provided by the individuals involved; (8) Make certain that the incident documentation includes the charter's determination of what happened, why it happened, and how the incident was addressed, remedied, or resolved; (9) Determine if the irregularity involved any examinees potentially gaining an unfair advantage on an assessment; (10) Document all disciplinary action taken and submit to the division. (E) Program directors or their designees must provide all the required information requested and submit an incident report and supporting documentation to the division within seven business days. Last updated July 8, 2024 at 12:08 PM Supplemental Information |
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Rule 4765-24-24 | Standards for the ethical use of examinations.
(A) These standards of ethical examination practices shall be used in determining if a practice related to an examination is consistent with the principles of performing one's duties with honesty, integrity, due care, fairness to all, ensuring the integrity of the examination process, and the reliability and validity of any inference made from any result of an examination. (B) Except as specifically permitted by written instructions provided by the developer of an examination, by the division, or by agency 4765 of the Administrative Code pertaining to accommodations, each charter shall use, but not be limited to, the following standards that define the types of practices related to administering examinations that are unethical and/or inappropriate: (1) Any examination used for purposes other than that for which it was intended; (2) Any practice that results in a potential conflict of interest or one that exerts undue influence on a person administering an examination, either making or appearing to make an examination process unfair to some examinees; (3) Except for accommodations expressly permitted under agency 4765 of the Administrative Code, any change in procedures for administering an examination that results in a nonstandard condition for one or more examinees; (4) Any practice that allows a person without sufficient and appropriate knowledge, skills, and/or training to administer and/or score an examination; (5) Any administration and/or scoring practice that may produce a result contaminated by a factor not relevant to the purpose(s) of an examination; (6) Any practice immediately preceding and/or during an examination including, but not limited to, the use of gesture, facial expression, body language, tone of voice, language, or any other action and/or sound that may guide an examinee's response; (7) Except for the directions for administration as prescribed by the division, any practice such as providing to an examinee, immediately preceding and/or during administration of a examination, any definition and/or clarification of the meaning of a word or term contained in an examination; (8) Any practice that corrects or alters any examinee's response to an examination either during and/or following the administration of an examination; and (9) Any practice that supports or assists any person in unethical and/or inappropriate practice during administration of an examination. (C) Each participating program shall cooperate with the division in conducting an investigation of any alleged unethical and/or inappropriate assessment practice as defined in this rule. Last updated July 8, 2024 at 12:09 PM Supplemental Information |