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Module 1

Like all of the enclosed modules, Module 1 is based on a standard ISO container with rear and side opening cantilever doors. The interior is fitted with racks and shelves in which the equipment is stowed.

Each Module 1 has a heating and ventilation capability to ensure the equipment is stored in ideal conditions.

USAR Module 1 - near side stowage

Module 1 provides USAR support in the early stages of an incident. Equipment contained within the module includes:

Scene assessment & safety
Technical search
Temporary shoring – metal
Power generation & lighting
Drills and concrete breakers
Safe working at height
Timber and timber cutting
Hand tools, bolts and anchors
When attending small-scale collapses, such as a gas explosion in a domestic property, Module 1 contains all the equipment that the specialist crews require.

At more complex incidents, the equipment is used to make a detailed assessment of the scene, record that information and use it to develop a rescue plan. Usually, sophisticated technical search equipment will be the first type of equipment to be deployed as finding the victims of a collapse is the priority task.

In all situations, the wide range of equipment on this module allows the USAR crews to undertake immediate rescues if required.

Module 3

Module 3 provides heavy rescue support in the developing stages of an incident and contains equipment such as:

Timber shoring equipment
Nailing equipment
Bolts & anchors
Power generation & lighting
Large capacity air lift systems
Fast cut saws
Access & working platforms
Hydraulic breaking & breaching
Module 3 and prime mover
When it comes to heavy rescue from collapsed buildings and structures, Module 3 contains the equipment necessary to smash, cut, lift and move reinforced concrete debris so that firefighters and medical teams can get to victims trapped in the debris and release them.

USAR Modules
There are five modules for each of the USAR Units forming part of the USAR capability, numbered 1 to 5.
USAR Module on Prime Mover

Module 2

Module 2 contains a selection of heavy rescue equipment that would be required at the scene of a major transport incident. This includes:

Hot cutting
Heavy hydraulic equipment
Confined space working
Rope access & rescue
Heavy lift jacks
Timber chain saws
Lifting & moving equipment
Power generation & lighting
Mechanics tools
Unloading Module 2
Module 2 is stowed with some of the most powerful and modern rescue equipment available.
Due to the sophisticated nature of the equipment and to the fact that some items are new to the UK fire and rescue service, new systems of work are being developed by leading experts in the USAR field.
Regional coordinators view USAR Module 2