Rules and Regs

PURPOSE
The purpose of Article 3 is to establish the general rules and regulations for the
conduct of all uniformed members of the Knoxville Fire Department hereinafter
the Department concerning their performance of duty, their relationship with
fellow members, and their relationship with the public.
SECTION 3.1: CHAIN OF COMMAND

CHAIN OF COMMAND AND OUTSIDE INTERFERENCE
3.1.1
In order to establish clarity of command, and to promote efficiency
and responsibility, members must be aware of their position in the
chain of command. The chain of command is established upon the
principle that each firefighter has a specific supervisor to whom
they are responsible. Each supervisor in turn reports to a specific
chief, who in turn reports to a specific superior officer until the top of
the chain is reached. In this case, the ultimate authority in the
chain of command is the Fire Chief.
3.1.2
Any member of the Department who desires an interview with a

member above the members supervisor shall make a request to
their supervisor stating briefly the reason for the request, and the
supervisor shall transmit the request to the member indicated for
their approval or disapproval. This shall not be construed as
restricting any member of the Department from directly requesting
an interview with any other departmental member regarding certain
issues (i.e., harassment issues, safety issues, etc.).
3.1.3
The orderly direction of personnel, on occasion, includes the
administration of reasonable corrective discipline. In the absence
of a written rule or regulation, a verbal order is considered to have
the force and same standing and authority as a written regulation
and/or rule. Members of the Department who fail to abide by these
established rules will be subject to disciplinary action. Members
have the right to appeal any disciplinary action through established
grievance procedures.
3.1.4
No member, regardless of rank, shall try to circumvent any lawful
Fire Department order by obtaining influence from individuals or

organizations outside the Fire Department. This includes
interference from individuals concerning not only orders of general
Fire Department business, but all transfers and promotions.
SECTION 3.1: CHAIN OF COMMAND

3.1.5
All lawful orders that are given by a superior officer are to be
obeyed, whether or not the superior officer is that individuals
immediate or direct supervisor.
3.1.6
Upon receipt of any order from a superior officer that is in conflict

with a previous order, inform the officer who issued the conflicting
order and be governed by their instructions.
3.1.7
Members shall comply with all lawful orders of supervisors and

other approved authorities. Members shall perform all lawful orders
as requested and directed in a prompt and efficient manner.
Members shall not obey any order which they know or should know
would require them to commit any illegal act. If in doubt as to the
legality of any order, members shall request the issuing supervisor
clarify the order in writing or confer with a higher authority.
3.1.8
Members shall not verbally abuse supervisors because of orders

given, nor unreasonably question or fail to perform work as
requested. Verbal and physical abuse shall not be tolerated in any
manner.
SECTION 3.2: CONDUCT

CONDUCT OF FIRE DEPARTMENT MEMBERS
3.2.1
The Chief of the Department is entrusted with the authority to

manage, control, and operate the Department. Nothing in this
manual shall be interpreted as doing away with this authority.
3.2.2
Members of the Department, whether on or off duty, shall be

governed by the ordinary and reasonable rules of good conduct
and behavior, and shall not commit any negligent, malicious or
criminal act which may bring reproach or discredit upon the
Department or City of Knoxville.
3.2.3
Members shall maintain sufficient competency to perform properly

their duties and assume the responsibilities of their positions.
Members shall perform their duties in a manner which will maintain
the highest standards of efficiency and effectiveness in carrying out
the functions and objectives of the Department.
3.2.4
Members should exert the authority entrusted to them to uphold the

standards, policies, procedures, rules and regulations of the
Knoxville Fire Department, written or unwritten, and should in no
way hinder the orderly, efficient operation of the Department.
3.2.5
Members shall promptly notify their immediate supervisor of all

matters coming to their attention affecting the welfare of the
Department.
3.2.6
Members of the Department shall comply with all laws and

ordinances of the United States, State of Tennessee, and City of
Knoxville. At no time shall a member be ordered to violate the rules
and regulations of the City of Knoxville or any other law.
3.2.7
Members shall show proper respect for rank held by an officer of

the Department and/or the City of Knoxville. When addressing or
referring to an officer or person of higher authority, members shall
use the proper title of the officer or person concerned.
3.2.8
Members designated to temporarily perform the duties of a higher

rank shall be accorded the obedience, respect and courtesy
demanded by these rules for the higher rank.

3.2.9
Members shall be courteous in their relationships with the public as

well as with fellow City of Knoxville employees and shall avoid
harsh, violent, profane or insulting language.
3.2.10
Members shall maintain a professional image while on duty.
3.2.11
When city officials and Chief Officers of the Department enter a fire
station, officers and firefighters shall immediately, upon recognition
of them, rise to their feet and speak courteously and respectfully to
the officials/Chief Officers, addressing them by their title and name.
3.2.12
If requested to provide a statement by someone within their chain

of command, members shall give statements concerning jobrelated incidents.
3.2.13
Members shall not willingly misrepresent or falsify any matter

verbally or in writing.
3.2.14
Members are prohibited from engaging in fighting, horseplay, and

the use of loud, abusive or profane language on departmental
premises or property (whether on or off duty). Off-duty Department
personnel, while visiting fire stations and/or City property, shall obey
all rules of general conduct.
3.2.15
Members shall not steal from the public, fellow members, or the
City of Knoxville. Members shall not abuse the property of others,
and/or the Department. Members shall be true to their obligation as
custodians of public property and shall bear in mind that the misuse
and waste of public property is equally as reprehensible as the
misuse or waste of money from the public treasury.
3.2.16
Members shall neither sell, give away, nor appropriate to

their own use any Department property, contract supplies or
metered services.
3.2.17
Members shall not gamble while on duty, in uniform, or on

City property.
3.2.18 (a)
Employees must comply with all state and local laws regarding
parking and storage requirements of guns in their personal
vehicles. (See ie. T.C.A. 39-17-1313, 39-17-1359).

3.2.18 (b)
Unless specifically required by their official duties with the Knoxville

Fire Department, employees are prohibited from bringing firearms
or other weapons inside Fire Department buildings (including but
not limited to fire stations, the administrative offices, EMS, etc.).
3.2.18 (c)
Unless specifically required by their official duties with the Knoxville

Fire Department, employees are prohibited from storing firearms or
ammunition in City-owned vehicles assigned to employees.
3.2.19
Nothing of a hazardous or unsafe nature may be kept in a

members locker, or on City property without proper authorization.
3.2.20
Members shall not leave duty during any shift, detail or assignment
without notifying their supervisor and receiving proper approval. No
visits shall be made to a firefighters residence unless an
emergency exists. At no time, unless on official Fire
Department business, (i.e. training, installing a smoke alarm,
doing pre-plans, etc.), shall Fire Department emergency
equipment or personnel leave their first due EMS territory
while on duty. If a member or company must leave their first due
EMS territory, they shall request permission from their District Chief
to ensure proper coverage is maintained.
3.2.21
No long distance telephone calls shall be made on Fire Station

telephones.
3.2.22
In accordance with Rule 1.06 of the City of Knoxville Administrative

Rules, Harassment Policy, and the Non-Discrimination Policy set
forth in Rule 1.05, members shall not use remarks that degrade the
race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, ethnic origin,
military status, gender identity, sexual orientation, creed, genetic
information or disability of fellow members, supervisors, the
administration, or the public in such a manner as to be insulting or
inciting. (See Administrative Rules, Section 1.06, Harassment
Policy and Section 1.05, Non-Discrimination Policy.)
3.2.23
All facilities, utilities, and equipment provided by the City are

for the use and general welfare of all members. There shall be no
discrimination by any member regarding the use of same.
Supervisors shall have the responsibility to enforce and regulate
this provision.

3.2.24
No member shall directly or indirectly accept any gift, favor or

service in any form under circumstances from which it could
reasonably be inferred that the gift was intended to influence the
member, or reasonably be expected to influence the member, in the
performance of the members official duty or was intended as a
reward for any official act by the member which benefits another
party. (See Administrative Rules Section 1.09, Employee
Code of Ethics)
3.2.25
No member of the Department, under any circumstances, while on

duty or in uniform will be permitted to solicit subscriptions or sell
tickets for any charitable institution or for any purpose whatsoever
unless by permission of the Chief of the Department.
3.2.26
Members shall report to work free from the influence and

odor of alcohol and other drugs. (See Administrative Rules
Section 13, Alcohol and Drug Policy and Risk Management
Drug and Alcohol Policies)
3.2.27
No member shall be in possession of, or use illegal drugs as

forbidden by law. Members shall not consume alcoholic beverages
while on duty or have such items in their possession.
3.2.28
Safety-sensitive employees are required to disclose the use of any

prescription medications that may have an impairing effect on the
performance of their duties. A physicians statement may be
required indicating whether or not the members can perform their
regularly assigned duties. (See Risk Management Drug and
Alcohol Policies, Drug and Alcohol Policy Documents on the
intranet) Any questions or concerns should be directed to the
Health & Safety Officer.
3.2.29
Members shall adhere to the Tobacco Policy. (See Tobacco

Use Policy and Administrative Rules Section 12.09, Tobacco
Policy).
3.2.30
Members shall seek prior approval of the Chief of the Fire

Department to attend any training program, school, seminar,
conference, meeting, or to obtain any publication, video, resource
material, etc. if the member wishes to use City resources (such as
reimbursement or attending school days). Furthermore, prior
approval of the Chief of the Fire Department is necessary in order
to represent the Knoxville Fire Department in any training program,
school, seminar, conference or meeting.

3.2.31
Any request for a visit to a fire station for campaign purposes by a

candidate for elected office must have prior approval of the Chief of
the Department before the scheduled visit. Visits from candidates
must not interfere with the normal operations of the Department
and the visits must be open to all candidates. No funds of the City
of Knoxville may be used for any visit and no member may be
forced, directed, or coerced to attend such visits. (See
Administrative Rules Section 1.10, Political Activity)
3.2.32
Members shall not use any information obtained through any

means while on duty to further in any way any off-duty employment
or commercial enterprise. Members shall not further the interests
of any off-duty employer or commercial interest through any
comments, suggestions, advertisement or other statements while
on duty. Members shall not use their position with the Department
for any economic or competitive advantage in off-duty employment
or in any off-duty commercial enterprise.
3.2.33
To prevent dissemination of confidential information and the

unauthorized recording of communications between members,
members of the Knoxville Fire Department shall not record (audio/
video), any communication between the member and another
member of the Knoxville Fire Department without the prior approval
of the Fire Chief and the member being recorded. (See Photo and
Electronic Imaging Policy)
3.2.34
Members shall treat the official business of the Department as

confidential. Information regarding official business shall be
disseminated only to those for whom it is intended, in accordance
with established departmental procedures.
3.2.35
To ensure the accuracy of the views and policies of the

Department, any solicited or unsolicited communication of a Fire
Department member as a representative or member of the
Knoxville Fire Department must receive the prior approval of the
Chief of the Fire Department. Communications include any oral or
written references by a member concerning the actions, policies,
activities, etc. of the Knoxville Fire Department.

3.2.36
No one except the Community Relations Officer (or designee) or

the Assistant Chief (or higher ranking member) at a fire or other
emergency shall give information pertaining to a fire and/or
emergency to the news media for publication.
3.2.37
No estimates of damage shall be given out by any member of the

Department to the news media regarding wrecks or fires.
3.2.38 (a)
Any member charged with a crime (other than a minor traffic

offense) shall report being charged with such crime to the
Administrative Office as soon as possible (not to exceed 72 hours
from the time the member becomes aware of such charge).
Failure to report being charged with such a crime may result in
appropriate disciplinary action, including termination of
employment. The Chief shall review the nature of the crime, the
facts and circumstances that can be determined through the
investigation process, and make a determination on what, if any,
action should be taken regarding the members employment status
until resolution of the charge.
3.2.38 (b)
Any current member shall notify the Administrative Office within 24

hours of the outcome of their criminal case. Failure to report a
conviction may result in appropriate disciplinary action, including
termination of employment. The Chief shall review the nature of the
crime and make a determination on what, if any, action should be
taken regarding the members employment status based upon the
facts and circumstances determined through the investigation
process.
SECTION 3.3: DISCIPLINE

DISCIPLINARY AND/OR OTHER PERSONNEL ACTION
3.3.1
Members who fail to uphold the standards, policies, procedures,

rules and regulations of the Department and the City, may be
subject to disciplinary action including termination.
3.3.2
Disciplinary action may be taken if a member has been convicted of

a felony or a misdemeanor.
3.3.3
The Deputy Chief of Operations, Deputy Chief of Administration,

Assistant Chiefs, Fire Officers or other supervisors are empowered
by the Chief to administer counseling and/or reprimands for
infractions of Department rules and regulations, operational
standard or orders consistent with their level of authority and in
accordance with Civil Services Rules and Regulations. Supervisors
shall have the power and it shall be their duty to take action in one
of the following ways:
a.
b.
c.
Counseling Form Fire Officers and above

Oral Reprimand - Fire Officers and above
Written Reprimand - Assistant Chiefs and above
The Fire Chief is further authorized to discipline members in

accordance with Civil Service Merit Board Rules, Article 27.
Discipline may include:
a.
b.
c.
Suspension
Reduction in rank
Termination
Fire Officers and above may recommend any level of discipline.

(See Administrative Rules Section 11)
3.3.4
Supervisors may relieve members from duty to prevent

embarrassment to the Department, or to avoid potential conflict.
SECTION 3.4: BASIC RESPONSE AND FIRE GROUND

PROCEDURES
3.4.1
Only firefighters who have been through the proper training courses
and had their driving skills assessed by the Training Academy and
Health & Safety Officer (or designee) will be allowed to drive any
Fire Department apparatus on an emergency response.
3.4.2
While operating a fire apparatus, drivers of all Fire

Department vehicles shall have in their possession a minimum of a
valid Class D operators license with an F endorsement, or
equivalent. Any member having a change in drivers license
status must inform the Administrative Office.
3.4.3
Apparatus and emergency units shall respond immediately and

directly to all emergency and non-emergency assignments and
return directly to quarters unless on official assignment. Stops
while returning from a call for other than official reasons are
prohibited with the exception noted in Section 3.6.36.
3.4.4
All appropriate firefighting PPE (at a minimum - turnout coat and

turnout pants) shall be worn by firefighting personnel while
responding to structural fires and fire alarms. (Optional for District
Chiefs and anyone driving a fire apparatus.) This PPE shall be
donned prior to getting in the fire apparatus unless members are
dispatched while already travelling. In this case, PPE may be
donned upon arrival on scene. Seatbelts shall not be unbuckled in
order to don PPE while travelling. Helmets shall not be worn while
travelling. Members shall be fully prepared to engage in
firefighting activities in a safe manner.
3.4.5
When responding to either an emergency or a non-emergency,

apparatus shall take the shortest route possible and avoid railroad
crossings if possible. If unable to avoid the crossing, use extreme
caution when proceeding over the tracks, it may be difficult to hear
an oncoming train with emergency equipment operating and
hearing protection in use.
3.4.6
Vehicle spotlights shall not be used as a traffic control aid. Use

spotlights only to locate building numbers, street markers and on
the fire grounds. When responding to an emergency, visual and
audible traffic control devices will be used (all red lights and siren).

PROCEDURES
3.4.7
Members shall operate City-owned or other vehicles utilized in the

service of the City in a responsible manner and in compliance with
existing safety codes and regulations. Vehicles shall not be
operated in a negligent manner with willful disregard for the safety
of others.
3.4.8
It is the Company Officers (Fire Officer or Acting Fire Officer in

charge of a company) responsibility to be certain that all assigned
personnel are in position on the apparatus with seatbelts properly
fastened before moving the vehicle. Each member is responsible
to be in position on the apparatus quickly so that a timely response
can be made. If, for any reason, a members response to the
apparatus may be delayed (i.e., taking a shower, etc.), the
Company Officer should be notified. Failure to respond to the
apparatus in a reasonable time may result in disciplinary action.
3.4.9
While responding to an emergency, drivers of Fire

Department vehicles shall come to a complete stop for any of
the following:
A.
B.
C.
D.
When directed by a law enforcement officer

Blind intersections
Where driver cannot account for all lanes of traffic
When approaching school buses with flashing lights
At all railroad crossings, drivers should proceed with caution.

3.4.10
TENNESSEE STATE LAW - (NOTE KFD CHANGE IN ITALICS)
T.C.A. 55-8-108 (a-c). Authorized emergency vehicles

The driver of an authorized emergency vehicle, when responding to
an emergency call, or when in the pursuit of an actual or
suspected violator of the law, or when responding to but not
upon returning from a fire alarm, may exercise the privileges
set forth in this section, but subject to the conditions stated in
this section.
(b)
(1)
A driver of an authorized emergency vehicle operating
the vehicle in accordance with subsection (a) may:
(A)
Park or stand, notwithstanding other provisions
of this chapter that regulate parking or standing;

PROCEDURES
(c)
(B)
Proceed past a red or stop signal or stop
sign, but only after slowing down as may be
necessary for safe operation;
(C)
Exceed the speed limits so long as life or
property is not thereby endangered; and
(D)
Disregard regulations governing direction of
movement or turning in specified directions.
(2)
Subdivision (b)(1) shall not relieve the driver of an
authorized emergency vehicle from the duty to drive with due
regard for the safety of all persons, nor shall subdivision (b)
(1) protect the driver from the consequences of the drivers
own reckless disregard for the safety of others.
(1)
The exemptions granted under subsection (b) to a
driver of an authorized emergency vehicle shall only apply
when the vehicle is making use of audible and visual signals
meeting the requirements of the applicable laws of this state,
except that while parked or standing, an authorized
emergency vehicle shall only be required to make use of
visual signals meeting the requirements of the applicable
laws of this state.
(2)
Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit
the driver of an authorized emergency vehicle, while parked
or standing, from making use of both audible and visual
signals meeting the requirements of the applicable laws of
this state, in the discretion of the driver.
[Acts 1955, ch. 329, 7; T.C.A., 59-808; Acts 1986, ch. 822 1; 1989, ch. 173,
1; 2001, ch. 60, 1.]
3.4.11
Officers and drivers shall avoid positioning apparatus in such a way

as to obstruct hydrants, or hinder or prevent the movement of other
apparatus or equipment.
3.4.12
Officers and drivers shall avoid, when possible, laying hose lines in
such a way as to block avenues of travel.
3.4.13
The Officer-in-Charge at a fire shall be held responsible for

informing the Fire Marshal or designee that the sprinkler or
standpipe system has been activated. If there are circumstances
(ex: fire alarm system wont reset, enacting fire watch, etc.) that
cause the Officer-in-Charge concern, the Fire Marshals Office

should be notified (or consulted), so they may take appropriate
action.

PROCEDURES
3.4.14
All members should follow all written set-ups and pre-planned

assignments unless circumstances require other actions.
3.4.15
Second or greater alarm response companies shall observe

extreme caution while in transit, and be alert to other responding
companies. Be alert to all radio transmissions for orders that may
affect the respective company or companies.
3.4.16
An officer who calls for a second alarm or greater, shall inform

Dispatch of the extent of the fire.
3.4.17
If any radio goes out of service during an emergency, notify the

Incident Commander. Each member of an interior crew MUST
have a working portable radio.
3.4.18
The Flat Load shall be used on pre-connected attack lines.
3.4.19
Arrival of a superior officer shall not relieve subordinate

members of responsibility for previous actions.
3.4.20
Company Officers shall remain with their respective units, supervise

and assist their work, keep the company personnel intact, and
coordinate their companies to afford the greatest efficiency in the
performance of their duties.
3.4.21
Members should stay with their company, unless assigned by

Command to another company or assignment. The Company
Officer should always know the location of personnel. Each officer
shall take precautionary action to safeguard members under their
command. Freelancing is unacceptable.
3.4.22
Any Department apparatus, emergency units, Chief Officers car,

and other emergency equipment shall be returned to full in-service
status as soon as possible. All members shall assist in getting units
to in-service status.
3.4.23
Booster tanks and tankers shall be refilled on the fire grounds when
practical and resources are available.

PROCEDURES
3.4.24
All members shall learn the street locations and names within their
assigned response area. All members shall develop a general
knowledge of the streets within the entire city.
3.4.25
Whenever an alarm is dispatched to a Company and/or Chief

Officer while they are in-service away from the station, each
Company and Chief Officer is to report their location, immediately,
to Dispatch so that Dispatch will be aware of the direction in which
each piece of equipment will be traveling to the scene of the
emergency. (This procedure enables Dispatch to alert apparatus of
cross-streets where special precautions should be taken.)
3.4.26
Seatbelts shall be provided and must be used by all Fire

Department personnel in all vehicles.
3.4.27
Hearing protection must be worn at all times when riding in

fire apparatus or operating any power equipment. The intercom
system meets the hearing protection requirements for NFPA and
OSHA. Failure of a member to properly wear the hearing
protection provided may result in disciplinary action against the
member, up to and including termination. Failure of a supervisor to
properly enforce hearing protection regulations may also result in
disciplinary action against the supervisor. (See Hearing
Conservation Program).
3.4.28
Any time a Knoxville Fire Department unit is dispatched to an area

near the corporate limits, the Officer-in-Charge will immediately
begin life saving and fire suppression efforts and will continue these
efforts until it has been determined by all answering agencies, (i.e.,
Karns Fire Department, Rural Metro Fire Department, Seymour Fire
Department, etc.), along with the property owner, that the property
is inside/outside the corporate limits. At that point, the emergency
scene shall be turned over to the proper authority. In the event no
agreement can be reached, the Knoxville Fire Department will
remain on the scene until the emergency has been successfully
concluded.
SECTION 3.5: HOURS OF WORK, LEAVES AND ABSENCES

STAFFING
It shall be the policy of the Knoxville Fire Department to staff all Engine, Quint
and Ladder Companies with a minimum of three (3) firefighters each. Rescue
One and Haz-Mat will be staffed with a minimum of two (2) firefighters each who
have been specially trained to perform tasks associated with the job. Each shift
will be staffed with a minimum of three (3) District Chiefs. Tankers will be staffed
on an as-needed basis only. The Fire Officer of the Engine Company housed
with the Tanker will select a member of their company to operate the Tanker
when necessary. Engine, Quint, Ladder, Haz-Mat and Rescue companies will
have a Fire Officer or Master Firefighter in charge of the company every shift
unless otherwise deemed necessary by the Shift Commander (District Chief who
staffs the shifts). It is understood that on rare occasions the Company or Acting
Officer may be required to absent himself or herself for short periods of time to
deal with administrative matters, training, etc. See Overtime Staffing Policy.
When a member is going to be absent from their duty station for any
reason, the member must have prior approval of the supervisor consistent
with the rules and regulations.
Emergency Personnel Recall
Emergency Recall is a system used to recall off-duty personnel in case of natural
disasters, inclement weather, major medical operations or fire activity that
reduces the on-duty forces below that needed to meet our service requests. The
intent of this procedure is to establish a standard method for placing additional
companies in service as quickly as possible.
This procedure can be initiated by the Fire Chief, Deputy Fire Chief of Operations
or Deputy Fire Chief of Administration upon indication that a staffing shortage
exists or is projected to exist due to tactical activity.
All Fire Department personnel are required to maintain a telephone and to have a
number on file in the Administrative Office. Changes in address or telephone
number must be reported to the Company Officer within 24 hours and filed with
the Administrative Office by the end of the next business day. All personnel are
subject to be called to duty at any time. Failure to respond in a timely manner
will be considered gross insubordination and subject to disciplinary action.
Members living in Knox County have one (1) hour from the time of the call to
report to duty assignment. Off-duty members responding to a fire or other
emergency shall report immediately to the staging area when they arrive upon
the scene.
WORK SCHEDULE - FIREFIGHTING DIVISION

3.5.1
The Firefighting Division shall be structured to provide for three (3)

shifts. Each shift shall work an average fifty-six (56) hours per
week (averaged over a twenty-eight (28) day period) consisting of
duty periods of twenty-four (24) hours.
Work schedule is as follows:
On 24 hours; off 24 hours; on 24 hours; off 24 hours; on 24 hours;
then off for 96 hours (or four 24 hour shifts).
3.5.2
A normal duty period will commence at 7:00 a.m. for firefighting

personnel and end at 7:00 a.m. the following day.
3.5.3
A normal duty period will commence at 6:00 a.m. for firefighting

Chief Officers and end at 6:00 a.m. the following day.
3.5.4
When companies are operating at fires at the time of shift change,

and the officers and firefighters of the on-coming shift arrive at their
stations, the Fire Officer shall call the District Chief on duty to
arrange for transportation.
3.5.5
Members engaged with a fire or other emergency at 7:00 a.m. shall

remain at the scene until relieved of duty by the Incident
Commander. Members who are ordered to remain on duty after
their normal tour of duty (7:00 a.m.) shall receive additional pay.
3.5.6
Members who have been officially contacted by the Department for

special assignments, or other duty shall report at the time and place
specified (i.e. EMS standbys, special events, etc.). Failure to do so
shall be considered as failure to report to duty and shall be
subject to all applicable Department rules covering same.
Members who commit to work a special event cannot be on call or
work a double day. Members who cannot begin to respond within
10 minutes of notification cannot be on call. Members who have
been contacted to float, double or have been pre-doubled, shall
report at the place specified by the following times:
a.
Float 30 minutes after being contacted
b.
Doubled from home 1 hour after being contacted
c.
Doubled from fire station 30 minutes after being
contacted
d.
Pre-doubled On time
WORK SCHEDULE - OTHER DIVISIONS

3.5.7
The hours of duty for divisions other than Firefighting shall be:
(Note: These hours can be adjusted by the Fire Chief per City of
Knoxville Administrative Rules.)
a.
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE
Based on a 40-hour week, Monday through Friday,
beginning at 8:00 a.m. and ending at 4:30 p.m.
b.
TRAINING DIVISION
c.
EMS DIVISION
d.
FIRE PREVENTION BUREAU

e.
LOGISTICS DIVISION
f.
FIRE AND EXPLOSION INVESTIGATION UNIT

Based on a 40-hour week, Monday through Friday, the first
shift works 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and the second shift works
2:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
REQUEST FOR LEAVE

3.5.8
Requests for leave in the Firefighting Division must be approved by

immediate supervisors, including the District Chief and submitted
on the pre-watch. Any changes to the pre-watch will only be
granted on an emergency basis.
3.5.9
Uniformed members in the Fire Department assigned to twenty-four

(24) hour shifts shall take annual leave in increments of twelve (12)
and twenty-four (24) hours. Said members may use a maximum of
four

(4) 12 hour shifts of annual leave per year. The remainder must be
taken in increments of 24 hours. The Shift Commander must
approve annual leave of twelve (12) hours.

3.5.10
A single twenty-four (24) hour day of annual leave can be taken on

a holiday providing prior approval has been obtained. The holidays
are: New Years Day, Martin Luther King Day, Good Friday,
Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day
and observance of Veterans Day, and Christmas Day. Leave will
not be approved until staffing for the holiday has been
confirmed.
3.5.11
Immediate supervisors will be responsible and held accountable

for the administration of annual leave. They shall be fair to each
member in the granting and scheduling of annual leave. Priority for
approval of annual leave in the Firefighting Division will be given to
the member requesting the greatest number of 24-hour shifts. If a
conflict arises, it shall be resolved in a manner that is determined
by rank, then time in grade, and then seniority.
3.5.12
The Department reserves the right to cancel annual leave in

emergency situations, or when operational conditions so dictate;
therefore personnel shall be required to provide current contact
information to the Administrative Office.
3.5.13
Members requesting emergency use of annual leave will be

granted this time in case of personal emergency and upon
approval by the District Chief. The District Chief in such cases,
may require verification from member confirming that an
emergency actually existed. A personal or family emergency is
defined as a condition under which the member must be absent
from work because failure to do so will cause significant hardship,
and there exists no alternative available to the member.
3.5.14
Members shall report to work as scheduled unless member

receives the proper authority to be on leave.
3.5.15
All approved sick leave, vacation (annual) leave, compensatory

time, holidays and previously approved leaves of absence without
pay shall be considered authorized leave.

3.5.16
Members are required to make a request via their supervisor for a

Leave of Absence before approval and/or authorization can be
made. (See Administrative Rules Section 5.16, Leave Without

Pay)
3.5.17
All Leaves of Absence without Pay, which have not been previously
approved by the Chief, or verified as an extreme personal
emergency as per 3.5.13, shall be considered unauthorized leave
and may be subject to disciplinary action.
SICK LEAVE
3.5.18
Members in the Firefighting Division who find it necessary to take

sick leave shall report this fact to their District Chief and Company
Officer at their assigned station between 6:00 a.m. and 6:15 a.m.
on the morning prior to beginning of their shift.
3.5.19
Members may use sick leave to a maximum of 40 hours per

calendar year for members on a 40 hour week and 56 hours per
calendar year for members on a 56 hour week for the medical
needs of a spouse, domestic partner, child, or parent. A member
who is absent for ten (10) or more days (five 24 hour shifts) due to
personal illness or the illness of an immediate family member must
complete Family and Medical Leave forms in compliance with
Section 5.20 of the Administrative Rules and Regulations.
3.5.20
The Chief, Deputy Chief or Assistant Chief may ask for a medical
statement or other acceptable evidence for shorter periods of sick
leave (less than 10 days or five 24 hour shifts) if deemed
appropriate or advisable. If necessary, the Chief may request
further evaluation from the City-selected physician for periods of
non-FMLA sick leave.
3.5.21
A medical statement of release may be required by the Chief before

returning to regular duty after an injury.
3.5.22
All medical statements must be clear in stating the total amount of

time the member was absent from work, including the first day of
absence and the exact day the member may return to their normal
duties. The statement should state that the member may return to
work as a firefighter. It must be stated by the physician, Nurse
Practitioner or Physicians Assistant whether or not any limitations
or restrictions are expected and, if so, they must be plainly
stipulated. Any member feigning sickness or injury as to

his or her condition while on sick leave shall be subject to strict
disciplinary action. All sick leave is subject to verification by the
Chief.
3.5.23
The first shift a member returns to work after being on Sick Leave,
they must complete and sign a Request for Leave form and forward
to the Administrative Office.
3.5.24
Members who become ill during a period of paid annual leave may
request that their vacation be temporarily terminated and the time
charged to sick leave. Members may also use annual leave for sick
leave if sick leave has been exhausted.
(See Administrative Rules Section 5.08, Sick Leave)
JOB-RELATED INJURIES
3.5.25
Members off duty due to a job-related injury shall continue to

accrue sick and annual leave during this period.
3.5.26
If a member is injured on the job, the member shall immediately

report it to the supervisor and the member shall fill out, completely,
the proper on-line accident report for on-the-job injuries. The form
must be signed by the member and supervisor. (See
Administrative Rules - Section 7.05, Workers Compensation)
3.5.27
All injuries on duty shall be reported to the Health & Safety Officer,
or designee, who will direct the member to the proper location for
treatment. The Health & Safety Officer will report the injury to Risk
Management.
3.5.28
Unless authorized in advance by proper authorities, only the

physicians authorized by the City will be paid for services rendered
to a member for job-related injuries or illnesses.
3.5.29
The member will authorize the physician to supply the City of

Knoxville Law Department with all information pertaining to their
case for all job-related injuries or illnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS LEAVE
3.5.30
LEAVE WITHOUT PAY (See Administrative Rules - Section 5.16)

3.5.31
MILITARY LEAVE (See Administrative Rules Section 5.15)
3.5.32
BEREAVEMENT LEAVE (See Administrative Rules Section
5.14)
VOTING
3.5.33
Voting is a privilege and a right which all City of Knoxville members

should exercise. A member is entitled to vote in National, State,
County or City elections. Members are encouraged to take
advantage of the early voting process, if available. If conditions
prohibit a member from voting other than during working hours,
sufficient time off to exercise the right to vote will be granted and
coordinated with their supervisor.
TRADE TIME
3.5.34
a.
All trade time must be approved by the District Chief and

Fire Officer at least 24 hours before it occurs.
b.
A member may trade time with another member of equal

rank and capabilities no more than thirty (30) 12-hour days
per year. The member initiating the swap arranges such
swap with another member. Both members must sign the
appropriate trade time forms and have their respective
supervisors approve the trade time. Master Firefighters
currently acting as Fire Officers may swap time with Fire
Officers.
c.
Swapped time must be paid back within one (1) year from
date of the original swap.
d.
Additional trade time (other than thirty (30) days) may be

granted by permission of the Chief of the Department.
e.
At no time is it permissible for one member to pay

another member to work his or her shift or any part
thereof.

COURT AND JURY DUTY See Administrative Rules Section 5.13 Civil
Leave
Any employee shall be given necessary time off without loss of pay when:
Performing jury duty. In accordance with T.C.A. 22-4-106, an
employee is paid for his/her regularly scheduled work day if
the jury
duty exceeds three (3) hours. If the employee serves less than
three (3) hours per day, the time served is considered civil
leave and the employee must return to work or use leave for
the remaining work hours.
Required by duties or subpoenas to appear before a court, public
body, or commission as a witness provided that the
employee has no personal interest in the litigation.
STRIKES
3.5.36
Strikes by members are prohibited. Any member who engages in a

strike shall be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the
Charter, Code and Ordinances of the City of Knoxville. The term
strike, as used in this manual, means concerted action in failing to
report for duty; willful absence from ones position; stoppage of
work; slowdown, or abstinence in whole or in part from the full,
faithful and proper performance of the duties of employment for the
purpose of inducing, influencing, or coercing a change in the
conditions, compensation, rights, privileges, or obligations of
employment.
FAILURE TO REPORT FOR DUTY ON TIME

Members of the Fire Department shall report for duty on time. Any member who
fails to report for duty at the date, time and place specified without
the consent of the supervisor or without valid excuse is subject to
disciplinary action.
If a member fails to show up for work at the fire station on time, the
District Chief will be notified immediately, at which time the District
Chief will take appropriate action (counseling form, oral reprimand
or written reprimand). If the District Chief deems necessary, the
District Chief will contact the Administrative Office to schedule a
pre-disciplinary meeting with the Chief for further action.

If a member fails to report for duty and does not notify their
Assistant Chief, Deputy Chief or Chief within thirty (30) calendar
days, they will be subject to termination. If the member is unable to

notify their Assistant Chief, Deputy Chief or Chief they may have
some member of their family do so.
SECTION 3.6: DUTIES, WORK RULES AND WORK AREAS

3.6.1
The Chief and/or designees have the right to transfer and assign
members in positions and locations within the Department. The
Department reserves the right to assign members within the Fire
Department to duty stations and work assignments in accordance
with their job classifications and/or operational necessities.
3.6.2
Radio check should be performed by the assigned company.

Firefighters and Senior Firefighters shall assist in daily vehicle
check (oil, water, booster tank, tools, etc.). Each member is
responsible for proper operation of life saving equipment.
3.6.3
All Stations will adhere to the following clean-up schedule:

General clean-up should be done every day, including
Saturdays and Sundays.
This would include:

Floor care (ex: sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming)
Bathroom care (ex: cleaning toilets/urinals, sinks, and countertops)
Trash removal
Any other needed cleaning
In addition to General Daily Clean-up, the following schedule
should be followed through the week:
MONDAY:
TUESDAY:
WEDNESDAY:
THURSDAY:
FRIDAY:
Clean apparatus floor (wash down with soap

and water or sweep/clean with blower).
Wash/clean tools, equipment, and
compartments on apparatus.
Vacuum/clean HVAC components (ex: supply
registers/grills, duct work, vents, etc.).
Thorough cleaning of Kitchen (ex: take apart
and clean stove/oven, clean exhaust vent/
filters, clean refrigerator inside and out, etc.).
Mow lawn during season and any other
general lawn care throughout the year, police
outside for trash, and clean driveway when
needed.
Any time there are larger cleaning projects around the stations (ex:
buffing floors, washing bay doors, cleaning windows, etc.), the
captains on all 3 shifts should take the time to communicate how
these larger projects will be divided up among the 3 shifts and
completed.
Fire Apparatus should be washed as often as needed in order to
maintain a professional image for the public and to show a sense of
pride in the job and the Department.
District Chiefs will inspect Fire Stations for cleanliness on a
regular basis.
3.6.4
No member may remove or borrow City property nor retain or

misappropriate any article found at alarms or other assignments.
3.6.5
Strict economy shall be used in the use of electricity, fuel, water and
cleaning supplies.
3.6.6
Unless the member has a temporary illness or injury and obtains

permission from the Company Officer, no member shall occupy a
bed in the fire station between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 12:00
noon.
3.6.7
Members may occupy beds after 12:00 noon, providing that all
training, inspection and similar details have been completed.
3.6.8
Members shall not unnecessarily disturb others who may be

sleeping.
3.6.9
Off-duty personnel shall not utilize a fire station for extended stay
accommodations.
3.6.10
When some function or activity is in progress during sleeping hours,

the Company Officer will determine if sleeping is permitted.
3.6.11
MINIMUM requirements for sleepwear will be as follows:

Fire Department T Shirt and
Sportswear Gym Shorts or Sweats
3.6.12
Members shall receive visitors to all Department facilities in a

courteous and business-like manner.
3.6.13
Company Officers may assign a company member to the duty of

escorting visitors about the premises.
3.6.14
Visitors shall not be permitted to lounge or sleep in fire stations,

except by permission of the District Chief on duty.
3.6.15
No member shall park a privately owned vehicle in front of the fire

station so as to block egress of emergency vehicles. Firefighting
personnel will prohibit anyone from parking in such a manner.
3.6.16
No privately owned vehicles are to be parked inside the fire station

except with special permission of the Deputy Chief of Operations.
At no time shall a privately owned vehicle park behind a fire
apparatus or behind the normal parking spot for a fire apparatus.
3.6.17
Appointments for group tours must be arranged through the

Administrative Office. The Company Officer or designee shall log
these tours in the activities section of FireHouse.
3.6.18
Visitors are not to be encouraged or allowed to remain on fire

station premises as guests for any extended period of time, and
they shall not be permitted in the sleeping areas and locker rooms.
Further, they shall not interrupt or interfere with the work
assignments, training, eating meals, sleeping, or any other activity.
The only exception to the above is during open house or station
tours.
3.6.19
All ride alongs must be approved by the Company Officer and

the Fire Chief or a Deputy Chief. The proper waiver forms
must be signed and received in the Administrative Office prior
to the ride along.
3.6.20
Members shall respect the Flag of the United States of America,

and shall thoroughly familiarize themselves with official standards
regarding flag etiquette. (See Flag Etiquette Policy and
Appendix How to Display the American Flag)
3.6.21
The Flag of the United States of America shall be raised and

lowered with dignity and decorum; members performing this duty
shall be in complete uniform of the day.

3.6.22
Recreational activities, such as watching television, exercising, or

extra studying will be permitted provided that all work assignments,
daily fire school, and training have been completed. It shall be the
responsibility of the Company Officer to see that work assignments
and all training are completed before such activities begin.
3.6.23
Due to the emergency nature of services provided by the Fire

Department to the citizens of Knoxville, and in order to maintain
necessary levels of in-service status, a member shall not refuse to
respond promptly to any duty station or assignment.
3.6.24
Members shall not violate any trust or confidence placed upon or

accepted by them, in an official capacity, regarding matters of
confidence, information that could be embarrassing or detrimental,
or cause conflict to any member of the Department or to the City of
Knoxville.
3.6.25
Members shall not become involved with or a part to any

conspiracy against the City of Knoxville, or any member thereof.
Failure to comply shall subject the member to disciplinary action.
3.6.26
Members may be required to float to other stations to work during

their shift.
3.6.27
The Shift Commander will record all floating on the back of the
Daily Watch Sheet. Records shall be kept at the company level to
ensure fair and equal treatment for those individuals that must float.
Float pay records shall be filled out correctly by the Company
Officer and turned in to the Administrative Office at the end of every
quarter.
3.6.28
At no time should an individual be floated except for the purpose of

maintaining minimum staffing of a company. Floating assignments
shall be shared equally among the rank of Firefighter. If necessary,
all Senior Firefighters shall float on a rotating basis. Those who
are floating have 30 minutes to reach their designated floating
assignment.
3.6.29
When situations dictate the need for higher-ranking personnel/

certification, the Shift Commander may deviate from floating
guidelines due to special circumstances.
3.6.30
Paramedics assigned to ALS companies should not be floated

unless more than one is available on that unit.

3.6.31
If a paramedic is off and there are no available personnel who can

float to maintain minimum staffing, the ALS company will respond
as a basic first responder unit. Dispatch should be notified at shift

change when this occurs.
3.6.32
Qualified personnel may be utilized by the District Chiefs to act as

aides when it does not require the use of overtime. Each Chief
Officer shall have the prerogative of selecting the individual that
would be assigned on any given twenty-four hour duty period.
3.6.33
When a member is required to float after reporting to their primary

duty station the member shall avail themselves of the necessary
transportation so that they might promptly report to any assignment
as directed. When a member uses their own personal automobile
the Fire Department shall pay a predetermined amount of Float
Pay.
3.6.34
All personnel answering the phones shall state their station, rank,
and last name, and shall be respectful and courteous during such
conversation. Example: Station 2, Firefighter Doe speaking.
3.6.35
Because the response times of firefighting apparatus are critical to

the effective response to emergency calls, at no time shall
members operating on firefighting apparatus in the Firefighting
Division participate in an activity (other than activities required for
official Department business) in such a manner as to impede
response time. Said members may use firefighting apparatus two
times during a twenty-four hour shift to obtain groceries for the
station or to pick up food from a fast-food establishment or
restaurant, but they must remain within their first due EMS territory
and may not sit down in a restaurant to eat on the premises.
Firefighting apparatus may not be left unattended away from the
station unless all members are required for official Department
business. For purposes of this rule firefighting apparatus does not
include District Chief vehicles.
3.6.36
OFFICERS
The term Officer used below shall include ranks of Fire Officer and
above and persons serving in that capacity, either acting
temporarily or permanently appointed.

a.
All Officers shall:
1.
Perform the duties, accept the responsibilities and

authority of the rank which they are occupying.
2.
Enforce the policies, rules, regulations and

procedures of the Department; and when necessary,
submit reprimands, requests for disciplinary action, or
forward grievances as appropriate, and temporarily
relieve any member under their supervision when
conditions warrant such action.
3.
Decide promptly any questions of their subordinates

relative to the interpretation of Department rules and
regulations or orders; and in emergencies take
appropriate action as deemed necessary pursuant to
their authority.
4.
Direct operational procedures at emergencies until an

appropriate officer of equal or higher rank arrives and
command is officially transferred.
5.
Make daily notations of all orders, directives, and

other information applying to their respective
jurisdiction and operation of the Department and
transmit same to their relieving authority upon being
properly relieved.
6.
Investigate and report to their appropriate level of

authority any unusual occurrences and/or activities
concerning the Fire Department. When required,
make written reports containing facts of the case and
forward to the Chief of the Department or designee,
through the appropriate level of authority.
7.
Refrain from intercepting or delaying any

departmental reports and/or personal communications
to the addressee.
8.
Refrain from interfering in matters or operations for

which any other officer is responsible, without the
latters consent or by order from a superior.

9.
Refrain from exceeding their authority in giving
orders. The wrongful or injurious exercise of authority

by any member is prohibited.
10.
Show fair and impartial treatment of all subordinates,

and promptly deal with incompetency, misconduct and
neglect of duty as prescribed here and according to
orders, rules, laws and ordinances governing the Fire
Department.
3.6.37
When a member is transferred it shall be their responsibility to

remove all personal belongings from the individuals locker(s) within
three shifts, unless there are circumstances that would prevent this
action from being taken. For example: If the individual is
recuperating from sickness or injury and unable to come to the fire
station to remove these items.
3.6.38
For any infectious disease see the Infectious Disease Policy. (See
the Infectious Disease Policy and/or Risk Managements Blood
Borne Pathogen Exposure Control Plan.)
3.6.39
The City Charter of Knoxville, Section 303 (M), sets out operational
procedures for determining a public crisis and procedures to be
employed once a public crisis has been declared by the Mayor.
According to this section, after the declaration, members of all
Departments of our City Government may be called on to perform
duties outside their normal scope of employment in order to
preserve the welfare of the City at large.
3.6.40
No individual shall leave or store personal property at the fire

station longer than their regular scheduled work shift without the
permission of their District Chief. This does not include clothes,
uniforms, or personal grooming items that can be kept in their
personal locker.
3.6.41
There will be no private telephone lines installed in the fire stations

or any city-owned property.
3.6.42
Any fines, moving violation/citation, i.e., red light camera tickets,

proven valid, will be the responsibility of the vehicle operator.
3.6.43
All required certifications and/or EMS licenses will be maintained

for as long as the member is employed with the Knoxville Fire
Department as per any agreement signed between the Department
and the member unless member receives express written
permission from the Chief of the
Department to terminate a license or certification. All other licenses

or certifications obtained must be maintained as long as the
member is working in a position that requires the licenses and/or
certifications. It is the members responsibility to ensure all required
licenses/certifications are maintained.
SECTION 3.7: COMPUTER AND E-MAIL USAGE

3.7.1
The Knoxville Fire Department strives to maintain a workplace free

of harassment and sensitive to the diversity of its members.
Therefore, the Knoxville Fire Department prohibits the use of
computers and the e-mail system in ways that are disruptive,
offensive to others, or harmful for morale. Run reports and/or
pertinent Fire Department business will always take precedence
over any other computer usage, personal or otherwise.
(See Administrative Rules Section 1.06.02, Computer Use
Policy)
3.7.2
Members shall not use another members password or access

another members files without authorization.
3.7.3
The e-mail system should not be used to solicit or to conduct

personal business ventures.
3.7.4
Members shall obtain permission from the Administrative Office

prior to sending KFDGRP (group) e-mails with the exception of
Division Heads, or their designee with the Division Heads approval.
3.7.5
All shift personnel shall check their e-mail daily while on duty. All
Shift Assistant Chiefs and Fire Officers (or Acting Fire Officers) shall
check their e-mail at least twice a day while on duty, preferably at
the beginning of each shift and after 1700. Administrative
personnel shall check their e-mail as necessary to complete jobrelated duties.
3.7.6
Members shall be considerate of other personnel in the station.

Please limit computer usage so all members have the opportunity
to use the computer.
3.7.7
Information Systems has the responsibility and should be contacted

to move any computer equipment.
SECTION 3.8: WATCH DUTY

3.8.1
There shall be a station duty watch maintained in each fire station

on a 24-hour basis from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m.
3.8.2
The Company Officer shall notify all members of their assigned

times for watch duty; watch assignments will be rotated.
3.8.3
Company Officers may adjust the watch duty as conditions may

require.
3.8.4
The primary responsibilities of the station duty watch are:

a.
Security of station premises and personnel.
b.
The member on watch duty shall maintain a watch activity

diary entered in FireHouse under Activity which shall include:
Who is on duty
Swaps
Tours of stations
Standbys
Visits to the Shop
Placed in Reserve
The watch activities shall be retained as a legal, permanent
record in FireHouse and must be protected from loss or
improper use.
c.
Any messages (fax or KFDGRP e-mail) received by the

member on watch duty, which are deemed to be urgent, shall
be forwarded immediately to the highest ranking officer
working at the station.
d.
The member on watch duty shall properly notify all members

of an alarm. This may be necessary if the standard
notification system is inoperable, for Still Alarms, or if
members are outside the station.
e.
The member on watch duty shall give all pertinent

information to the highest ranking officer working at the
station concerning the receipt of alarms. Should any
question arise about the alarm the E-911 Dispatch Center
shall be called for verification before response.

f.
The member on watch duty shall report the arrival and

departure of all Chief Officers and official visitors to the
highest ranking officer working at the station. Promptly open
all necessary doors for entrance of such officers when the
station is secured.
3.8.5
The watch duty shall be assumed promptly at the appointed time.
3.8.6
The member on watch duty shall remain within hearing distance of

alarm receiving devices, fire phone, station phones, etc. while
performing their duty.
3.8.7
Company Officers shall assume the watch duties at any time it

becomes necessary to utilize the station personnel otherwise.
3.8.8
The member on watch duty shall maintain security of radio

equipment on the watch desk and shall immediately report any
defects or malfunction of the equipment to the highest ranking
officer working at the station and the Dispatch Center.
3.8.9
The member on watch duty being relieved shall impart all

necessary information to the relief member.
3.8.10
The member on watch duty shall greet visitors upon their approach,
determine the nature of their business and if necessary call the
highest ranking officer working at the station.
3.8.11
The member on watch duty shall not permit fire phones to be used
for other than official departmental business.
3.8.12
In case of electric power failure the member on watch duty shall

immediately:
a.
Notify highest ranking officer(s).
b.
Take necessary steps to ensure efficient operation of
overhead doors to include door safety sensors.
3.8.13
Every Monday the member on watch duty shall check the Fire
Station emergency generator to ensure that it is operational, and
document the check in FireHouse.
3.8.14
The member on watch duty shall notify the highest ranking officer
working at the station in case of illness or some other unforeseen
condition which renders that member incapable of remaining on
watch.
3.8.15
The member on watch duty shall report any violation of rules,

regulations, or orders in or about quarters to the highest ranking
officer working at the station.
3.8.16
The member on watch duty shall keep the area around the watch
desk neat and clean.
3.8.17
The sleeping watch, which is permitted from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00

a.m., does not relieve the member on watch duty of any duties and
responsibilities pertaining to the receipt and transmission of any
alarm. In situations requiring radios to be used for the receipt of
alarms, (i.e. notification system inoperable), then the member on
watch duty shall remain on full alert.
3.8.18
Telephones and fax machines shall remain on and the volume

controls on telephones shall be set at audible levels that can easily
be heard by the member on watch.
3.8.19
Perform other related work as required or directed.
SECTION 3.9: UNIFORMS

REGULATIONS GOVERNING UNIFORMS
3.9.1
All members of the Knoxville Fire Department shall maintain, in

good condition, all regulation turnout gear that has been issued by
KFD.
3.9.2
It shall be the responsibility of each member of the Department to

ensure that their uniform is clean, neatly pressed and in good
condition at all times.
3.9.3
Each member of the Department shall be dressed in the

appropriate prescribed uniform beginning and during their official
tour of duty (i.e. 7:00 a.m. for the Firefighting Division).
3.9.4
The complete prescribed uniform may be worn while traveling to

and from the assigned place of duty, but is prohibited from being
worn as casual dress during off-duty time or for non-KFD
employment.
3.9.5
Due to the nature of the job, each member should always have a
spare Class B Uniform available in case the one they are wearing
becomes soiled.
3.9.6
A.
Each member of this Department should always be aware

that they are a representative of the Knoxville Fire
Department and should wear their uniform in such a manner
so as not to discredit themselves or the Knoxville Fire
Department.
B.
When representing the Knoxville Fire Department at an

information or training venue (classes, meetings,
conferences, etc.), or when providing EMS at an event,
whether local or out of town, each member of the Knoxville
Fire Department shall always wear the appropriate uniform.
This also applies to members of the Department who are
called in to work an incident or to stand-by.
3.9.7
Only uniform clothing and related equipment authorized and

approved by the Fire Chief (or designee) will be worn. This
includes hats.
3.9.8
Each class of the official uniform shall be worn in the

prescribed manner and will in no way be incomplete (i.e. Fire
Department tee shirts with blue jeans, etc.) The shirt tail shall be
worn inside the trousers at all times.

3.9.9
Uniforms with the Knoxville Fire Department insignia cannot be sold

or donated. When leaving the Knoxville Fire Department, unless
retiring, all Department issued PPE, Knoxville Fire Department
shirts, t-shirts with the Knoxville Fire Department logo, badges, ID
card, name tags, accountability tags, etc. and any other items that
would identify them as a member of the Knoxville Fire Department
must be returned to Logistics within five (5) business days of the
members date of separation.
CLASS A UNIFORM
3.9.10
The Class A Dress Uniform shall be worn on all formal

occasions when representing the Department. The Ike Jacket
may be worn as part of the Class A Dress Uniform on less formal
occasions.
Class A:
The Class A Dress Uniform consists of the following items

from the approved uniform list:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
Class A cap
Class A uniform coat
Class A uniform trousers
Long sleeve white uniform shirt
Black tie
Black belt
Black plain toe shoes with high gloss finish
Navy or black socks
3.9.11
The Class A uniform cap will be worn square on the head with the
cap bill approximately two fingers width from the nose.
3.9.12
The coat badge, cap badge, rank insignias (approved insignias

only), Knoxville Fire Department insignias, sleeve rank stripe (gold
for officers, silver for non-officers) for the uniform coat shall be worn
as applicable. Name plates will not be worn on the Class A coat.
Name plates shall be worn on the Ike jacket. Rank insignia shall be
worn on the upper most lapel of the Class A coat and Ike jacket.
The insignia shall be a solid disc with appropriate bugles.

3.9.13
One Maltese Cross for each five years service shall be worn on the
left sleeve. An additional Maltese Cross may be worn after serving
1/2 of the five year time period, 2 crosses after 7 1/2 years, 3
crosses after 12 1/2 years, etc. The Maltese Crosses for officers
shall be gold. Maltese Crosses for non-officers shall be silver.
3.9.14
The Fire Department patch shall be worn on the left sleeve of the
Class A coat and Ike jacket. No patch shall occupy the right sleeve
of the Class A coat. Medical rank on right sleeve of Ike jacket is
optional. (Members of the Honor Guard shall have the Fire
Department patch on both sleeves of the Class A coat.)
Specifications for Class A coat and insignia are listed below.
3.9.15
SPECIFICATIONS FOR CLASS A UNIFORMS

A.
B.
CAP (Fechheimer or approved equal).

1.
Chief, Deputy Chief and Assistant Chief - White top

and black velvet with gold band; gold leaves on visor.
2.
Fire Officer - White top and black braid with gold

band.
3.
Master Firefighter and Senior Firefighter - Navy blue

top with silver band.
4.
Firefighter - Navy blue top with black band.
COAT (Class A double-breasted navy blue), Ike Jacket.

Approved collar brass will be worn on the Class A Coat. The
insignia shall be placed at the corners of the lapel with the
sides of the disc touching both lines of stitching. (Honor
Guard will wear collar brass appropriate for that
organization.)
C.
STRIPES (To begin 3 from edge of cuff of Class A coat

and/or Ike Jacket.)
1.
Chief - Five gold stripes on both sleeves.
2.
Deputy Chief - Four gold stripes on both sleeves.

3.
Assistant Chief - Three gold stripes on both sleeves.
4.
Fire Officer - Two gold stripes on both sleeves.
5.
Master Firefighter - Two silver stripes on both sleeves.
6.
Senior Firefighter - One silver stripe on both sleeves.
D.
MALTESE CROSSES ON COAT

One-half inch in size. To be immediately above stripe. One
cross for each five years service. Gold for officers; silver for
non-officers.
E.
TROUSERS Navy dress uniform trousers.
F.
SHIRTS Long sleeve white uniform shirt.
G.
TIE - Black, 3 wide.
H.
NAME PLATES - Officers, gold; non-officers, silver.
I.
SHOES - Black leather, plain toe with high gloss finish.
CLASS B UNIFORM
3.9.16
Class B:
The Class B Work Uniform is applicable to Administration,

Firefighting, Fire Prevention, EMS, and Training Divisions (see
section 3.9.17 for exceptions). The Class B work uniform may be
worn for daily wear at the fire station, during emergency or
nonemergency assignments from dispatch, and for scheduled
nonemergency assignments (i.e. pre-plans, smoke alarm installs,
EMS standbys, etc.). Class B will be worn during media events,
when directed by the Company Officer or Assistant Chief, or
when visiting the Administration Office for official meetings
(unless member obtains permission from the Chief or Deputy
Chief to wear other attire).
The Class B Work Uniform consists of the following items from

the approved uniform list:
Fire retardant or cotton button-up command shirt (white or medium blue,
long or short sleeves, as applicable)

Navy fire retardant or cotton trousers
Black belt
d. Navy uniform cap (as applicable)
e. Black plain toe shoes or boots
f.
Navy or black socks (or white socks with boots)
g. Jacket or sweater
CLASS C UNIFORM
3.9.17
The Class C work uniform may be worn for daily wear at

the fire station, during emergency or nonemergency
assignments from Dispatch, and for scheduled nonemergency
assignments (i.e. pre-plans, smoke alarm installs, EMS
standbys, etc.).
Class C:
The Class C Work Uniform consists of the following

items from the approved uniform list:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
Navy cotton polo shirt

Navy Firewear or cotton trousers
Black belt
Navy uniform cap (as applicable)
Black plain toe shoes or boots
Jacket, sweater or fleece job shirt
NOTE: The Class C or Class D uniform may be worn by the

Administration, Fire Prevention, EMS, Training and Logistics
Divisions under certain circumstances with permission of
their respective Division Head. Class C uniforms shall be
worn for all EMS events (Class B may be worn as a
substitute, but Class D may not be worn).
CLASS D UNIFORM
3.9.18
The Class D work uniform may be worn for daily wear at

the fire station and during emergency or nonemergency
assignments from dispatch.
Class D:
The Class D Work Uniform consists of the following

items from the approved uniform list:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
Navy cotton t-shirt

Navy fire retardant or cotton trousers
Black belt
Navy uniform cap (as applicable)
Black plain toe shoes or boots
Jacket, sweater or fleece job shirt
Training Center staff will determine the proper uniform of the day for companies
brought to the Training Center based on the activities required on that particular
day.
3.9.19
Workout Clothing (shorts, T-shirts, or sweat suits) shall be worn

only during exercise.
3.9.20
The Chief or Deputy Chief must approve any other wearing of the
uniform not described in Section 3.9. The Chief or Deputy Chief
may approve uniforms constructed of different material other than
fire retardant or cotton for members working in divisions other than
firefighting.
3.9.21
Disciplinary action may be taken with any department member who

does not adhere to these guidelines.
UNIFORM ALLOWANCE
3.9.22
3.9.23
a.
Only articles listed on the Approved Uniform Clothing List or

official vendors website are to be purchased.
b.
If the cost of article(s) purchased amounts to more than the

balance you have remaining on your Uniform Allowance, you
must pay the difference to the merchant at the time you
make the purchase.
c.
Any clothing allowance monies not used during the year will
not carry over.
The Fire Department approved clothing list will be made available

as soon as possible after the beginning of each fiscal year.
SECTION 3.10: HAIRCUTS AND GROOMING

3.10.1
HAIR - GENERAL
It shall be every members responsibility to ensure his or her hair,
as worn, shall not interfere with the use of safety equipment, i.e.,
mask, helmet, fire coat, etc.
Hair shall be kept in a clean and well-groomed condition.
These rules pertaining to hairstyles, length of hair, sideburns,
moustaches, beards, and makeup are necessary to ensure
member safety and promote a professional image.
3.10.2
a.
No hair shall be exposed during fire suppression operations.

This includes moustaches and sideburns.
b.
Hair shall in no way interfere with, or lessen, the ability to

perform any EMS skill or patient care. Hair will not hang in
members way, nor will hair come in contact with a patient or
any EMS equipment.
c.
No hair shall interfere with, or lessen, the protection afforded

by required safety equipment. Hair shall not be visible
outside the hood, mask, or helmet under any circumstances.
HAIR - MALES
a.
The length of hair in the front shall not fall over the eyebrows
and the length of hair in the back shall not fall below the top
of the buttoned shirt collar when the individual is in a
standing position. The hair shall be tapered to head contour.
b.
The hair on the side shall not fall below the middle part of the
ear.
c.
No length or style of hair is permitted that will in any manner

interfere with and/or obstruct the view of a member in the
performance of his official duties.
d.
No hair will be visible on forehead when the uniform cap is

worn.
e.
In order to promote a professional image to the public, hair

color must be consistent with the natural human hair
spectrum.

3.10.2
3.10.3
HAIR MALES (Continued)

f.
Hair shall not be worn in an extreme or fad style, such as a

Mohawk, ducktail, or in a way that exceeds length standards.
g.
Wigs or hairpieces may be worn if in compliance with the

above standards.
SIDEBURNS
Sideburns shall be neatly trimmed and shall not extend below the
lowest part of the ear, or present an excessively bushy appearance
or be wider than 1 1/4 inches at any given point.
3.10.4
MOUSTACHES
Moustache shall be short and neatly trimmed. Moustache shall not
extend below the bottom of the upper lip or beyond a vertical line
from the corner of the mouth or a horizontal line below the
corner of the mouth. (See below illustrations) Moustache may not
be of the length to impair the air passages of the nose. At no time
shall the moustache be of the length to interfere with the seal
between the face and face mask.

3.10.5
BEARDS
The remainder of the face will be clean-shaven; therefore,
prohibiting beards and goatees of any type.
3.10.6
HAIR - FEMALES
Hair shall be worn in a conservative style no longer than the top of
the shoulders when standing with the head in a normal posture.
Decorations and ornaments in the hair are prohibited. Items used
to hold the hair in place shall be concealed as much as possible
and blend with hair color. Wigs may be worn if in compliance with
the above standards.
3.10.7
a.
In order to promote a professional image to the public, hair

color must be consistent with the natural human hair
spectrum.
b.
Hair shall not be worn in an extreme or fad style, such as a

Mohawk, ducktail, or in a way that exceeds length standards.
MAKEUP
Female members using makeup shall apply it in a neat and
conservative manner.
3.10.8
FINGERNAILS
All members shall keep their fingernails clean and neatly trimmed
so as not to interfere with the use of protective equipment.
3.10.9
TATTOOS AND PIERCINGS

Tattoos on the face, head, or neck are prohibited. No tattoos may
be visible while wearing the Class A uniform.
Female personnel are permitted to wear studs in ears, one earring
per ear.
Any other jewelry or gauges in ears or on the facial area are
prohibited.
NOTE:
All members shall comply with these regulations at all times

when wearing the official Department uniform. These
regulations are intended to promote professionalism and for
the personal safety of members.
NOTE:
All members shall be neat, clean, well-groomed and practice

good personal hygiene at all times.
NOTE:
These work rules for hair length are maximum. Keep in mind
that the hair or moustache must be cut to less than the
standard to allow for normal growth.
SECTION 3.11: CARE/MAINTENANCE OF FIRE HOSE

3.11.1
The Company Officer shall be responsible for the care and proper
inventory of hose on their apparatus and/or at the fire station. All
members shall be responsible to pay particular attention to hose at
all times and especially during inclement weather to prevent mold
and mildew or other damage; and when such conditions are found,
hose shall be changed immediately by the on-duty shift. Report
any damage of hose to the Company Officer and/or District Chief.
3.11.2
Drivers and members shall make every effort to prevent vehicular

traffic from crossing hose lines by moving lines to the side of the
road whenever possible, especially when using 5-inch hose. If it
becomes necessary for emergency vehicles to drive over a hose,
hose bridges should be used.
3.11.3
All hose, including couplings, shall be properly cleaned with a mild

soap and water solution, inspected for damage, and reloaded or
stored after each use.
3.11.4
Hose sent in for repair shall be clean, rolled, and properly identified,
with explanation as to need of repair.
3.11.5
All fire hose, including booster lines, shall be used in such a way as
to minimize cold, mold, mildew, mechanical, chemical and heat
damage.
3.11.6
Couplings shall be made hand tight. (Except for booster hose.)
SECTION 3.12: CARE/MAINTENANCE OF FIRE APPARATUS

3.12.1
On a daily basis, apparatus and equipment shall be kept

reasonably clean, inspected, operated and kept in serviceable
condition. Any obvious unclean condition such as mud, dirt, or dust
shall be removed.
a.
Top side portions, including fender wells and compartments of fire

apparatus and emergency units, shall be cleaned by each shift so
as to pass visual inspection.
b.
Water shall not be allowed to remain on apparatus or units, tools,

appliances, flat or other surfaces, or in compartments so as to
cause rust, paint spotting, or other damage.
c.
The underside will be cleaned by hose stream only to remove mud,

dust, or other types of accumulation. A visual check of the top side
and underside will be made at the start of each shift for physical
and mechanical defects.
3.12.2
All emergency apparatus shall be checked each morning by the

oncoming shift to determine readiness of the vehicle and
equipment. The results of the vehicle check shall be documented
on the Daily Vehicle/SCBA Checklist and emailed to the
Apparatus Group. Major mechanical issues warrant an immediate
call to the shop or mechanic on call.
3.12.3
There shall be a monthly inventory of all tools and equipment on

each apparatus, and proper forms shall be filled out by the
Company Officer or their subordinate and forwarded to the ISO
Officer and Logistics Officer. All compartments and tools should be
inspected, cleaned, and properly replaced as needed. This will be
the responsibility of the Company Officer of the shift working the
first day of each month.
3.12.4
Members shall not refuel any vehicle while engine is running or

ignition switch is on. Smoking is prohibited in the immediate vicinity
of any refueling operation. Gasoline engines will not be refueled
with diesel fuel and vice versa.
3.12.5
On the tenth day of the month, each ladder truck should have the
aerial device extended and cleaned, and waterway lubricated. All
debris should be removed from the ladder, platform, and generator
area.
SECTION 3.12: CARE/MAINTENANCE OF FIRE APPARATUS

3.12.6
Reserve apparatus and/or units shall be kept clean according to

Department policy. It shall be the responsibility of the company
personnel who last used reserve apparatus or unit to return the
apparatus clean, fully equipped, and ready to use.
3.12.7
Taking/acquiring equipment or tools from a reserve apparatus is

strictly prohibited.
SECTION 3.13: STATION ADMINISTRATION - REPLACING

EQUIPMENT
3.13.1
When a piece of equipment is discovered to be lost, damaged,

stolen, or permanently unserviceable, the Company Officer will
immediately notify Logistics or other appropriate division and
complete a Report of Lost, Damaged, Stolen Equipment form.
The form will be forwarded to the Logistics Officer and Safety
Officer as soon as possible. Loss of or damage to city property due
to abuse or negligence may result in disciplinary action.
Every effort will be made to replace the item as soon as possible.
3.13.2
Report of Lost, Damaged, Stolen Equipment forms are not

required for perishable items that are replaced through other means
(Gatorade, breathing air, batteries, etc.), nor are they required for
items that must be discarded because of contaminations. These
items must be reported to the appropriate officer for replacement,
but are not considered as lost.
CITY OF KNOXVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT

MANUAL OF POLICIES AND GUIDELINES
Article 3 General Rules & Regulations
PAGE 1
11/02/15

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PURPOSE

SECTION 3.1: CHAIN OF COMMAND

Any member of the Department who desires an interview with a

Fire Department order by obtaining influence from individuals or

SECTION 3.1: CHAIN OF COMMAND

Upon receipt of any order from a superior officer that is in conflict

Members shall comply with all lawful orders of supervisors and

Members shall not verbally abuse supervisors because of orders

SECTION 3.2: CONDUCT

The Chief of the Department is entrusted with the authority to

Members of the Department, whether on or off duty, shall be

Members shall maintain sufficient competency to perform properly

Members should exert the authority entrusted to them to uphold the

Members shall promptly notify their immediate supervisor of all

Members of the Department shall comply with all laws and

Members shall show proper respect for rank held by an officer of

Members designated to temporarily perform the duties of a higher

SECTION 3.2: CONDUCT

Members shall be courteous in their relationships with the public as

Members shall maintain a professional image while on duty.

If requested to provide a statement by someone within their chain

Members shall not willingly misrepresent or falsify any matter

Members are prohibited from engaging in fighting, horseplay, and

Members shall neither sell, give away, nor appropriate to

Members shall not gamble while on duty, in uniform, or on

SECTION 3.2: CONDUCT

Unless specifically required by their official duties with the Knoxville

Unless specifically required by their official duties with the Knoxville

Nothing of a hazardous or unsafe nature may be kept in a

No long distance telephone calls shall be made on Fire Station

In accordance with Rule 1.06 of the City of Knoxville Administrative

All facilities, utilities, and equipment provided by the City are

SECTION 3.2: CONDUCT

No member shall directly or indirectly accept any gift, favor or

No member of the Department, under any circumstances, while on

Members shall report to work free from the influence and

No member shall be in possession of, or use illegal drugs as

Safety-sensitive employees are required to disclose the use of any

Members shall adhere to the Tobacco Policy. (See Tobacco

Members shall seek prior approval of the Chief of the Fire

school, seminar, conference or meeting.

SECTION 3.2: CONDUCT

Any request for a visit to a fire station for campaign purposes by a

Members shall not use any information obtained through any

To prevent dissemination of confidential information and the

Members shall treat the official business of the Department as

To ensure the accuracy of the views and policies of the

SECTION 3.2: CONDUCT

No one except the Community Relations Officer (or designee) or

No estimates of damage shall be given out by any member of the

Any member charged with a crime (other than a minor traffic

Any current member shall notify the Administrative Office within 24

SECTION 3.3: DISCIPLINE

Members who fail to uphold the standards, policies, procedures,

Disciplinary action may be taken if a member has been convicted of

The Deputy Chief of Operations, Deputy Chief of Administration,

Counseling Form Fire Officers and above

The Fire Chief is further authorized to discipline members in

Fire Officers and above may recommend any level of discipline.

Supervisors may relieve members from duty to prevent

SECTION 3.4: BASIC RESPONSE AND FIRE GROUND

While operating a fire apparatus, drivers of all Fire