DA Form 5380: Fire Apparatus Test Record (PDF Download) – DA Form 5380, officially titled the Fire Apparatus Test Record, is a critical U.S. Army form used to document performance and service tests on fire department vehicles and equipment. It ensures that fire apparatus (such as pumpers, aerial devices, and ARFF vehicles) remain reliable, safe, and compliant with Army and national standards.
This form supports fire and emergency services programs at Army installations across the United States. It helps maintain operational readiness for firefighters protecting military personnel, facilities, and assets.
What Is DA Form 5380 Used For?
The primary purpose of DA Form 5380 is to record detailed test results for fire apparatus, focusing on:
- Pump performance (capacity tests at various pressures and durations)
- Engine and mechanical systems
- Acceleration and top speed
- Safety and operational features (relief valves, primers, leaks, tires, etc.)
It is prescribed for use under AR 420-1 (Army Facilities Management), with the proponent agency being the Assistant Chief of Staff for Installation Management (ACSIM). Tests align with NFPA standards (e.g., NFPA 1911 for in-service emergency vehicles, pump testing per NFPA 1901/1900 guidelines, and aerial device testing).
Regular testing and documentation help identify issues early, ensure compliance, and support vehicle maintenance programs. Failure to maintain records can affect readiness and safety certifications.
Key Sections of DA Form 5380
The form (January 2009 edition) captures comprehensive vehicle and test data:
- Header Information: Installation, date, officer conducting the test, Army registration number, class, manufacturer, model, serial numbers, acquisition date, etc.
- Pump and Capacity Tests:
- 150 lbs pump pressure (100% capacity for 20 min)
- 200 lbs and 250 lbs tests (70% and 50% capacities)
- Details like GPM, RPM, oil pressure, engine temp, nozzle pressure, pitot readings, hose layout, lift, etc.
- Operational Checks: Relief valve, primer, drain valves, gate valves, throttle, transfer valve, AFFF system, pump packing, intake screens, cavitation, etc.
- Acceleration Tests: Standing to 35 MPH in 25 seconds, steady 15-35 MPH in 30 seconds, top speed on level terrain.
- Equipment Compliance: NFPA 1901 standards, tire condition, etc.
- Remarks and Actions: Space for notes on deficiencies and corrective actions.
The form is one page (with continuation on reverse if needed) and available as a fillable PDF.
Who Uses DA Form 5380?
- Army Fire Department personnel
- Emergency vehicle technicians and operators
- Installation fire chiefs and safety officers
- Maintenance teams responsible for fire apparatus at U.S. military bases
It applies to active Army, Army National Guard, and Army Reserve fire and emergency services programs. Similar forms or standards may influence civilian fire departments working with military installations.
How to Complete DA Form 5380?
- Gather vehicle details (serial numbers, manufacturer specs, previous test records).
- Perform tests according to applicable NFPA standards and technical manuals (e.g., pump tests with proper hose layouts and flow measurements).
- Record all data accurately, including pass/fail for each check.
- Note any deficiencies and required corrective actions.
- Have the responsible officer sign and date the form.
- Retain records as part of the vehicle’s maintenance history (often for the life of the apparatus or per ARIMS guidelines).
Tip: Use manufacturer guidelines and certified testing equipment. For aerial apparatus, additional NFPA 1914-compliant tests and records are required.
Consult your local installation fire department or refer to the latest AR 420-1 (or successor AR 420-5) for policy details.
Importance of Fire Apparatus Testing in the U.S. Army
Reliable fire apparatus is essential for rapid response to structural fires, aircraft incidents, hazardous materials events, and other emergencies on military installations. Pump tests verify water delivery capability under pressure. Acceleration and mechanical checks ensure vehicles perform in real-world conditions. Consistent use of DA Form 5380 supports:
- Compliance with DoD and NFPA standards
- Preventive maintenance and reduced downtime
- Personnel and asset safety
- Audit readiness
Download DA Form 5380 PDF (Official Source)
Official Fillable PDF:
Download DA Form 5380 here
This is the current version from the Army Publishing Directorate (APD). Previous editions (e.g., 5380-R) are obsolete—always use the latest.
Additional resources:
- Army Publishing Directorate (armypubs.army.mil)
- AR 420-1 / AR 420-5 (Army Facilities Management / Fire and Emergency Services)
- NFPA standards for fire apparatus (available via NFPA.org)
Best Practices for Fire Apparatus Maintenance
- Schedule tests per manufacturer and NFPA recommendations (e.g., annual pump tests).
- Combine with daily/weekly PMCS (Preventive Maintenance Checks and Services).
- Train personnel on proper testing procedures.
- Digitally archive records where possible for easy retrieval.
Note: This article provides general guidance based on publicly available Army publications and standards. For official policy, consult your chain of command or the latest regulations, as requirements may update.
Stay prepared—proper documentation with DA Form 5380 keeps Army fire apparatus mission-ready. For more Army forms or fire safety resources, explore official APD resources.