Codes and standards published by NFPA are displayed as read-only under license from NFPA solely for use within this system. NFPA material may not be downloaded, printed, reproduced, or transferred.This Handbook Edition is published with the understanding that the NFPA and the contributors to this Handbook Edition are supplying information and opinion but are not attempting to render engineering or other professional service.Update to the 2013 NFPA 1500 and prepare your team to safely control on-the-job hazards so they can maximize performance and effectiveness.As needs of the fire service continue to change at a rapid pace, NFPA 1500: Standard on Fire Department Occupational Safety and Health Program responds to incorporate new industry developments and lessons learned. The 2013 edition of this "umbrella" document provides the latest performance requirements for every aspect of health and safety in career, volunteer, private, and military fire departments. This essential document provides the protocols required for everything from fire fighter training, vehicles, and tools to emergency operations, medical and physical requirements, incident stress, and protective clothing and equipment.Make sure you're up-to-date on major 2013 NFPA 1500 changes, including:A new requirement for the use of the word "MAYDAY" when a fire fighter is in an emergency situation and requires assistance. This commonly used and accepted term will reduce confusion within the fire service and other public safety agencies that might be sharing a common radio frequency.In recognition of the fact that critical incident stress is only one aspect of the health and wellness continuum for fire fighters, the title of Chapter 12 was changed from Critical Incident Stress Program to Occupational Exposure to Atypically Stressful Events. This change lends itself to a broader spectrum of care that fire departments shall provide to their member when dealing with stressful events.