R&B Cleveland Grip Field Manual: SOP for High-Rise Hose Deployment

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R&B Cleveland Grip Field Manual: SOP for High-Rise Hose Deployment

Category: Work Safety Protective Gear

Difficulty Level: Tier 3: Field Competency Required

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Written by: Valerie Ellis Lavin

Quick Overview

The R&B Fabrications Cleveland Grip is a purpose-built ergonomic hose transport harness that enables a single firefighter to carry a 100-foot bundle of 1¾" attack hose up multiple flights of stairs during high-rise, standpipe, and extended-lay fire attack operations.

The Cleveland Grip system is engineered around two functional component groups: load bearing and securing. The integrated shoulder pad distributes hose bundle weight across the operator's shoulder, preventing webbing from cutting into turnout gear or displacing an SCBA harness during ascent. The 2-inch nylon webbing forms the primary structure, encircling and compressing the coiled Cleveland Load into a stable, manageable unit. Deployment readiness depends on correct cinching: all slack must be eliminated before transport begins, as a loose bundle is both a transport and an operational hazard.

At the deployment point, the system's 2-inch Delrin side-release buckles provide one-handed release capability even with structural firefighting gloves. Once both buckles are depressed, the harness clears the hose bundle completely, leaving the line ready for immediate connection to a standpipe outlet or water source. Operators must clear all personnel from the bundle before releasing buckles, as the compressed coil will expand upon release.

Mandatory beginning-of-shift inspection covers three areas: webbing condition, stitching integrity at all load-bearing attachment points, and hardware function. Buckles must lock with an audible click and release without binding. There is no fixed service life for this system. Retirement is condition-based, and any harness that fails inspection, sustains heat exposure, or contacts chemical contaminants must be removed from service immediately.

Field Application Steps

1. LAY THE HARNESS FLAT: Place the Cleveland Grip harness flat on the ground or apparatus tailboard with the webbing straps fully extended and accessible.

2. POSITION THE HOSE COIL: Center the pre-coiled 100-foot Cleveland Load on top of the harness webbing so the bundle sits evenly over the strap system.

3. SEAT THE SHOULDER PAD: Position the integrated shoulder pad at the top apex of the hose coil so it will sit correctly on the operator's shoulder when the load is lifted.

4. CONNECT THE BUCKLES: Bring the webbing straps around the full circumference of the hose bundle and firmly engage the side-release buckles until each locks with an audible click.

5. CINCH DOWN FIRMLY: Pull the loose tail of each webbing strap to eliminate all slack. The bundle must be fully compressed with no significant movement. A loose bundle is a transport and deployment hazard.

6. SHOULDER THE LOAD: Grasp the shoulder pad and sling the secured bundle over your shoulder, allowing it to rest on top of your SCBA shoulder strap if worn.

7. BALANCE AND VERIFY: Adjust the load position until weight distribution feels stable and secure. The bundle must not shift during movement before you proceed.

8. PROCEED TO OBJECTIVE: Move through the stairwell with hands free for forcible entry tools, a thermal imager, or handrail contact. Maintain situational awareness around doorways and constricted spaces where straps or hardware may snag.

9. LOWER THE BUNDLE: Upon reaching the deployment area, carefully lower the hose bundle from your shoulder onto the deck before releasing any hardware.

10. RELEASE THE BUCKLES: With gloved hands, locate and depress both sides of each male side-release buckle. Buckles are designed for positive release under tension. Expect the hose coil to expand slightly upon release.

11. CLEAR THE HARNESS: Pull the entire harness system clear of the hose bundle. The hose is now ready for connection to a standpipe outlet or water source and charging.

12. STOW THE HARNESS: Secure the empty harness in a coat pocket or on your person immediately. A loose harness in the deployment area is a trip and snag hazard to your crew.

Equip Yourself: R&B "The Cleveland Grip" – Hose Carry System with Shoulder Pad

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LEGAL DISCLAIMER & SAFETY WARNING:
The information provided in this Luminary Global Field Manual is strictly for educational and informational purposes. It is not a substitute for formal medical, tactical, or professional training. In the event of a medical emergency, immediately seek professional help or contact emergency services. Luminary Global assumes no liability for the misuse of equipment, improper application of techniques, or any injuries/damages resulting from the use of these guidelines. Always rely on your official agency training, local laws, and established protocols during a crisis.