Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360 — Firefighting Personnel Standards and Education Commission

Chapter 0360-01-01 General

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-01-01-.01 ADDRESS

(1) All applicants shall ensure that their current address, email address, and contact information are on file with the Commission with the approved records management system (RMS).

(2) Documents may be submitted to the Commission by first class mail, email, or via the RMS.

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-01-01-.02 MEETINGS

(1) The Commission shall hold at least one (1) regularly scheduled meeting during each calendar quarter. Each grand division of the state shall host at least one (1) of the regularly scheduled meetings annually.

(2) The Commission shall establish the date, time, and location for each meeting.

(3) The meetings shall be conducted in accordance with Roberts Rules of Order, as adopted by the Commission, and upon written agenda.

(4) Minutes shall be made of each meeting in accordance with Roberts Rules of Order.

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-01-01-.03 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Repeal filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-01-01-.04 APPEALS PROCESS

Contested cases shall be governed by the relevant provisions of the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, T.C.A. Title 4, Chapter 5.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101 and 4-24-107(3).
Administrative History: Original rule filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Chapter 0360-01-02 Definitions

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-01-02-.01 DEFINITIONS

(1) Unless otherwise specified below, all words and terms shall be interpreted according to their plain and ordinary meaning.

(2) “Active fire service” shall mean a member or employee of the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office, or a recognized fire department, who is trained in fire fighting, prevention of fires, suppressing fires, performing rescue services, and for other emergency response purposes, and is actively engaged in such work or activities.

(3) “Affiliation” shall mean a member or employee of a recognized fire department who is actively involved in the training of firefighters, fire prevention education or activities, fire inspections, or fire investigations.

(4) “Closed examination” shall mean an examination which is administered to the firefighters of a single fire department or a single approved course.

(5) “Commission” shall mean the Tennessee Commission on Fire Fighting Personnel Standards and Education. “Commission” may also refer to a person designated by the Commission for a particular purpose.

(6) “Commission office” shall mean the office of the Director and staff of the Tennessee Commission on Fire Fighting Personnel Standards and Education.

(7) “Department” shall mean a department of a municipality, county, or political subdivision, or an organization, agency, or entity that offers its services, for or without pay, for the purpose of suppressing fires, performing rescue services, or for other emergency response purposes.

Excluded from this definition are law enforcement agencies, emergency medical agencies licensed by the Tennessee emergency medical services board, and rescue squads that do not provide fire protection.

(8) “Firefighter” shall mean a person employed by a fire department that is recognized by the State Fire Marshal and is required to extinguish and control fires or fire-related incidents.

(9) “ICC” shall mean the International Code Council.

(10) “ICS” shall mean the Incident Command System.

(11) “IFSAC” shall mean the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress.

(12) “NFPA” shall mean the National Fire Protection Association.

(13) “NIMS” shall mean the National Incident Management System.

(14) “Practical examination” shall mean a skill evaluation used to assess a candidate’s ability to perform a particular job performance requirement, requisite skill, or objective of a standard for the purpose of certification.

(15) “Pro Board” shall mean the National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications.

(16) “TFACA” shall mean the Tennessee Fire and Codes Enforcement Academy.

(17) “Training Coordinator” shall mean a person at the department who acts as a point of contact for receipt of Commission-related information.

(18) “Written examination” shall mean an assessment administered on paper or on a computer that is used to measure a candidate’s knowledge of a particular job performance requirement, requisite knowledge, or objective of a standard for the purpose of certification.

(19) “Volunteer firefighter” shall mean a duly appointed member of a fire department who is not employed in a full-time capacity with the department. Volunteer firefighters may receive life insurance, health insurance, workers’ compensation insurance, length of service awards, pay-per-call or per-hour, or similar compensation.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101 and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed September 30, 1983; effective December 14, 1983. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Amendment filed October 14, 1994; effective February 28, 1995. Repeal and new rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Chapter 0360-02-01 Certification of Training and Education Programs

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-02-01-.01 LOCAL FIRE DEPARTMENTS

(1) Departments recognized under the Fire Department Recognition Act, T.C.A. §§ 68-102-301 et seq., may participate in any eligible Commission program.

(2) Certification will only be offered for those courses and programs that have been properly submitted to and certified by the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-107, and 4-24-112.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-02-01-.02 VOCATIONAL SCHOOLS AND INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION

(1) If an institution wishes to have its courses certified, it must submit written descriptions of said courses to the Commission for consideration. All courses in fire training leading to certification must meet or exceed the applicable NFPA standard(s) and be consistent with the rules and regulations of the Commission.

(2) In order to receive course approval, the course content must be submitted, in writing, to the Commission at least sixty (60) days prior to consideration by the Commission. The submission must include specific citations to the portions of the NFPA standard(s) that correlate with the course content.

(3) Advanced courses and seminars in fire service, fire engineering or other advanced fire related training must be submitted to the Commission in sufficient detail to show adequacy of course content on the subject.

(4) Any institution desiring to have a program (consisting of one or more courses or seminars) approved must:

(a) Submit a detailed description of the program at least sixty (60) days prior to consideration by the Commission; and (b) Have each course or seminar certified by the Commission as set forth above.

(5) If a course or program has been properly submitted and certified by the Commission, persons completing such course or program will be given credit toward individual certification.

Completion of unapproved courses or programs will not result in such credit.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Amendment filed October 27, 2015; effective January 25, 2015.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-02-01-.03 SPECIAL COURSES AND PROGRAMS

(1) Any entity or organization not otherwise covered by these rules and regulations which offers special courses, programs, or seminars in fire related subjects may request approval of such offerings. Approval will be considered, giving due weight to course content and qualifications of instructors.

(2) When coursework is submitted toward a level of certification, a correlation sheet showing how the coursework meets the appropriate NFPA standard must be attached. Coursework cannot substitute for the practical examination for levels of certification accredited by IFSAC or any other national fire service accreditation body.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 17, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-02-01-.04 RESERVED

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, 4-24-106(2), 4-24-107 and 4-24-107(3).
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-02-01-.05 MINIMUM TRAINING

(1) (a) In order for the Commission to determine if a training is equivalent to a required training offered by the Tennessee Fire Service and Codes Enforcement Academy, all training programs seeking such determination of equivalency must submit:

An outline of the training to be used; and either;
A correlation of the program to the applicable NFPA standards; or 3. A correlation of the program to the class offered by the Tennessee Fire Service and Codes Enforcement Academy.

(b) A department may use a previously-approved training program on file with the Commission provided that the program meets or exceeds the current Commissionadopted NFPA standard and is approved by the Commission.

(2) To sit for certification testing, each individual must submit documentation that the prerequisites for the appropriate level of certification have been met.

(a) An applicant sitting for the Fire Fighter I test without completing the prerequisite courses must have satisfied the requirements of T.C.A. § 4-24-112 and the prerequisite Hazardous Materials Awareness (HMA)/Hazardous Material Operations (HMO) certifications.

(b) Certificates of course completion do not constitute certification.

(c) Certification as Fire Fighter I shall be considered proof of a firefighter’s completion of a minimum sixteen (16) hours of initial training and basic and live burn training requirement.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-107, and 4-24-112.
Administrative History: Original rule filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 27, 2015. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Chapter 0360-02-02 Instructor Certification

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-02-02-.01 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-106 and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Amendment filed October 14, 1994; effective February 28, 1995. Amendments filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Repeal filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-02-02-.02 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-106 and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Amendment filed October 14, 1994; effective February 28, 1995. Repeal filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-02-02-.03 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, 4-24-106(1), 4-24-107 and 4-24-107(3).
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 8, 1990. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-02-02-.04 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, 4-24-106(1), 4-24-107 and 4-24-107(3).
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-02-02-.05 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-106 and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Repeal filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Repeal filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-02-02-.06 VOCATIONAL SCHOOL AND HIGHER EDUCATION INSTRUCTOR

(1) An applicant may be certified by the Commission as an instructor in a vocational school or institution of higher education, provided he/she can show to the satisfaction of the Commission that he/she has a sufficient combination of education and experience to qualify him/her to teach the subject matter. In the alternative, the applicant can qualify for certification by passing the Fire Department Instructor I examination or the equivalent credentials appropriate for the vocational school or institution of higher education.

(2) The applicant provides information sufficient for the Commission to determine that applicant will utilize his/her certification at a specialized vocational school or institution of higher learning.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 8, 1990. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015.

Chapter 0360-03-01 Classifications for Full-Time and Volunteer Fire Fighters

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.01 GENERAL INFORMATION

The specific editions of performance standards referenced throughout this chapter are those adopted in

Chapter 0360-06-01.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, 4-24-106(4), 4-24-107, and 4-24-107(3).
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Repeal and new rule filed October 14, 1994; effective February 28, 1995. Repeal and new rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.02 FIRE FIGHTER I

(1) A Fire Fighter I shall meet the entrance requirements of the performance standards of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) as set out in Chapter 0360-06-01 and T.C.A. § 4-24-112.

(2) A Fire Fighter I shall satisfactorily pass the examination(s) for Fire Fighter I as promulgated by the Commission.

(3) A Fire Fighter I shall successfully complete a Commission-approved domestic violence course, a minimum of two (2) hours in length, within the previous three (3) years of the written test date.

(4) A Fire Fighter I shall submit proof with the application of successfully completing National Incident Management System (NIMS) IS-700: An Introduction and ICS-100: Introduction to ICS training, or the equivalent of each.

(5) An individual having previously been certified by the Commission at a recognized level and whose certifications are current but who wishes to obtain a Pro Board or an IFSAC Seal on the certification may retake the practical and written examinations.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, 4-24-107, and 4-24-111.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Repeal and new rule filed October 14, 1994; effective February 28, 1995. Repeal and new rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.03 FIRE FIGHTER II

(1) A Fire Fighter II shall successfully complete the requirements of Fire Fighter I as prescribed in Commission rules, regulations, and policies.

(2) A Fire Fighter II shall satisfactorily pass the examination(s) for Fire Fighter II as promulgated by the Commission.

(3) A Fire Fighter II shall successfully complete a Commission-approved domestic violence course, a minimum of two (2) hours in length, within the previous three (3) years of the written test date.

(4) A Fire Fighter II shall submit proof with the application of successfully completing NIMS IS- 700: An Introduction, ICS-100: Introduction to ICS training, and ICS-200: ICS for Single Resources and Initial Action Incidents training, or the equivalent of each.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, 4-24-107, and 4-24-111.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Repeal and new rule filed October 14, 1994; effective February 28, 1995. Amendment filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.04 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Repeal and new rule filed October 14, 1994; effective February 28, 1995. Repeal filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Repeal filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.05 FIRE DEPARTMENT INSTRUCTOR I

(1) Qualifications. An applicant for Fire Department Instructor I may be certified by the Commission provided the applicant meets the following requirements and demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Commission that the applicant:

(a) Is a member of the participating department;

(b) Is certified as a Journeyman Fire Fighter or Fire Fighter II pursuant to Rule 0360-03-01- .03;

(d) Has successfully completed a Commission-approved training program compliant with NFPA 1041, Standard for Fire Service Instructor Professional Qualifications; and (e) Has satisfactorily passed the examination(s) for Fire Department Instructor I given by the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-106 and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1990. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Repeal and new rule filed October 14, 1994; effective February 28, 1995. Repeal and new rule filed October 14, 1995; effective February 28, 1995. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.06 FIRE DEPARTMENT INSTRUCTOR II

(1) Qualifications. An applicant for Fire Department Instructor II may be certified by the Commission provided the applicant meets the following requirements and demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Commission that he/she:

(a) Has successfully completed all of the requirements of the Fire Department Instructor I as prescribed in Commission rules, regulations, and policies;

(b) Has successfully completed a Commission-approved training program compliant with NFPA 1041, Standard for Fire Service Instructor Professional Qualifications;

(c) Has satisfactorily passed the examination(s) for Fire Department Instructor II given by the Commission; and (d) Agrees to conduct training and examinations, maintain records, and submit reports in a manner prescribed by the Commission

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Repeal and new rule filed October 14, 1995; effective February 28, 1995. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.07 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Repeal and new rule filed October 14, 1995; effective February 28, 1995. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Repeal filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.08 FIRE DEPARTMENT INSTRUCTOR III

(1) Qualifications. An applicant for Fire Department Instructor Ill may be certified by the Commission provided the applicant meets the following requirements and demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Commission that he/she:

(a) Has successfully completed all of the requirements of Fire Department Instructor as prescribed in Commission rul es, regulations, and policies;

(b) Has successfully completed a Commission-approved training program compliant with NFPA 1041, Standard for Fire Service Instructor Professional Qualifications;

(c) Has satisfactorily passed the examination(s) for Fire Department Instructor III given by the Commission; and (d) Agrees to conduct training and examination(s), maintain records, and submit re ports as prescribed by the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Repeal and new rule filed October 14, 1995; effective February 28, 1995. Repeal filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.09 FIRE OFFICER I

(1) A Fire Officer I shall successfully complete the requirements of Journeyman Fire Fighter or Fire Fighter II and Fire Department Instructor I as prescribed in Commission rules, regulations, and policies.

(2) A Fire Officer I shall successfully complete a Commission-approved training program compliant with the NFPA 1021, Standard for Fire Officer Professional Qualifications.

(3) A Fire Officer I shall satisfactorily pass the examination(s) for Fire Officer I as promulgated by the Commission.

(4) A Fire Officer I shall successfully complete a Commission-approved domestic violence course, a minimum of two (2) hours in length, within the previous three (3) years of the written test date.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, 4-24-107, and 4-24-111.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Amendment filed October 14, 1995; effective February 28, 1995. Amendment filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.10 FIRE OFFICER II

(1) A Fire Officer II shall successfully complete the requirements of Fire Officer I as prescribed in Commission rules, regulations, and policies.

(2) A Fire Officer II shall successfully complete a Commission-approved training program compliant with the NFPA 1021, Standard for Fire Officer Professional Qualifications.

(3) A Fire Officer II shall satisfactorily pass the examination(s) for Fire Officer II as promulgated by the Commission.

(4) A Fire Officer II shall successfully complete a Commission-approved domestic violence course, a minimum of two (2) hours in length, within the previous three (3) years of the written test date.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, 4-24-107, and 4-24-111.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Repeal and new rule filed October 14, 1995; effective February 28, 1995. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.11 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Repeal and new rule filed October 14, 1995; effective February 28, 1995. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Repeal filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.12 FIRE OFFICER III

(1) A Fire Officer III shall successfully complete the requirements of Fire Officer II as prescribed in Commission rules, regulations, and policies.

(2) A Fire Officer III shall successfully complete a Commission-approved training program compliant with the NFPA 1021, Standard for Fire Officer Professional Qualifications.

(3) A Fire Officer III shall satisfactorily pass the examination(s) for Fire Officer III as promulgated by the Commission.

(4) A Fire Officer III shall successfully complete a Commission-approved domestic violence course, a minimum of two (2) hours in length, within the previous three (3) years of the written test date.

(5) A Fire Officer III shall submit proof with the application of successfully completing ICS-300:

Intermediate Incident Command System (ICS) training or its equivalent.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1990. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Repeal and new rule filed October 14, 1995; effective February 28, 1995. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments and new rules filed June 3, 2016; effective September 1, 2016. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.13 FIRE OFFICER IV

(1) A Fire Officer IV shall successfully complete the requirements of Fire Officer III as prescribed in Commission rules, regulations, and policies.

(2) A Fire Officer IV shall successfully complete a Commission-approved training program compliant with the NFPA 1021, Standard for Fire Officer Professional Qualifications.

(3) A Fire Officer IV shall satisfactorily pass the examination(s) for Fire Officer IV as promulgated by the Commission.

(4) A Fire Officer IV shall successfully complete a Commission-approved domestic violence course, a minimum of two (2) hours in length, within the previous three (3) years of the written test date.

(5) A Fire Officer IV shall submit proof with the application of successfully completing ICS-400:

Advanced Incident Command System or its equivalent.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Repeal filed October 14, 1995; effective February 28, 1995. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments and new rules filed June 3, 2016; effective September 1, 2016. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.14 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS AWARENESS CERTIFICATION

(1) A candidate for Hazardous Materials Awareness Certification shall successfully complete all requirements of Hazardous Materials Awareness Certification as prescribed in Commission rules, regulations, and policies.

(2) A candidate for Hazardous Materials Awareness Certification shall successfully complete a Commission-approved training course compliant with NFPA 472 or NFPA 1072.

(3) A candidate for Hazardous Materials Awareness Certification shall successfully pass the examination(s) for Hazardous Materials Awareness Certification as promulgated by the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Repeal filed October 14, 1995; effective February 28, 1995. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed January 22, 2020; effective April 21, 2020.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.15 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS OPERATIONS CERTIFICATION

(1) A candidate for Hazardous Materials Operations Certification shall successfully complete all requirements of Hazardous Materials Awareness Certification as prescribed in Commission rules, regulations, and policies.

(2) A candidate for Hazardous Materials Operations Certification shall successfully pass the examination(s) for Hazardous Materials Operations Certification as promulgated by the Commission.

(3) A candidate for Hazardous Materials Operations Certification shall successfully complete a Commission-approved training course compliant with NFPA 472 or NFPA 1072.

(4) This level may be taken at the same time as Hazardous Materials Awareness Certification. If the candidate does not successfully pass the examination for Hazardous Materials Awareness Certification, the examination for Hazardous Materials Operations Certification shall not be graded and shall be discarded. The candidate shall be required to take both examinations again.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Repeal filed October 14, 1995; effective February 28, 1995. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed January 22, 2020; effective April 21, 2020.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.16 AIRPORT FIREFIGHTER

(1) An Airport Firefighter shall successfully complete the requirements for Fire Fighter II prescribed in Commission rules, regulations, and policies.

(2) An Airport Firefighter shall successfully pass an examination(s) for Airport Firefighter as promulgated by the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, 4-24-107, and 4-24-110.
Administrative History: Original rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.17 WILDLAND FIREFIGHTER I

(1) A Wildland Firefighter I shall su ccessfully complete all of the requirements f or Fire Fighter I as prescribed in Commission rules, regulations, and policies.

(2) A Wildland Firefighter I shall successfully complete a Commission-approved training program compliant with NFPA 1051, Standard for Wildland Fire Fighter Professional Qualifications.

(3) A Wildland Firefighter I shall su ccessfully pass the examination(s) f or Wildland Firefighter I as promulgated by the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4- 24-106, 4-24-107, and 4-24-10.
Administrative History: Original rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.18 WILDLAND FIREFIGHTER II

(1) A Wildland Firefighter II shall successfully complete all of the requirements f or Wildland Firefighter I as prescrib ed in Commission rules, regulations, and policies.

(2) A Wildland Firefighter II shall successfully complete a Commission-approved training program compliant with NFPA 1051, Standard for Wildland Fire Fighter Professional Qualifications.

(3) A Wildland Firefighter II shall su ccessfully pass the examination(s) f or Wildland Firefighter II as promulgated by the Commission.

A uthority: T.C.A. §§ 4- 24-106 and 4-24-107. Administrative History: Original rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Repeal and new rule filed August 2, 2011; effective January 29, 2012. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.19 FIRE AND LIFE SAFETY EDUCATOR I

(1) A Fire and Life Safety Educator I shall su ccessfully pass the examination(s) for Fire and Lif e Safety Educator I as promulgated by the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-106 and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.20 FIRE AND LIFE SAFETY EDUCATOR II

(1) A Fire and Life Safety Educator II shall successfully complete all of the requirements for Fire and Life Safety Educator I as prescribed in Commission rules, regulations, and policies.

(2) A Fire and Life Safety Educator II must successfully pass the examination(s) for Fire and Life Safety Educator II as promulgated by the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-106 and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 27, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.21 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Repeal filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.22 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Repeal filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.23 FIRE APPARATUS OPERATOR

(1) A Fire Apparatus Operator shall successfully complete the requirements for Fire Fighter I as prescribed in Commission rules, regulations, and policies.

(2) A Fire Apparatus Operator shall successfully pass the examination(s) for Fire Apparatus Operator as promulgated by the Commission.

(3) A Fire Apparatus Operator shall successfully complete a Commission-approved training course compliant with NFPA 1002.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-106 and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.24 PUMPER DRIVER/OPERATOR

(1) A Pumper Driver/Operator shall successfully complete the requirements for Fire Fighter I as prescribed in Commission rules, regulations, and policies.

(2) A Pumper Driver/Operator shall successfully pass the examination(s) for Pumper Driver/Operator II as promulgated by the Commission.

(3) A Pumper Driver/Operator shall successfully complete a Commission-approved training course compliant with NFPA 1002.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-106 and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.25 AERIAL APPARATUS DRIVER/OPERATOR

(1) An Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator shall successfully complete the requirements for Fire Fighter I as prescribed in Commission rules, regulations, and policies.

(2) An Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator shall successfully pass the examination(s) for Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator as promulgated by the Commission.

(3) An Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator shall successfully complete a Commission-approved training course compliant with NFPA 1002.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-106 and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.26 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Repeal filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.27 INCIDENT SAFETY OFFICER

(1) An Incident Safety Officer shall successfully complete the requirements for Fire Officer I as prescribed in Commission rules, regulations, and policies.

(2) An Incident Safety Officer shall successfully complete a Commission-approved training program compliant with the NFPA 1521, Standard for Fire Department Safety Officer.

(3) An Incident Safety Officer shall pass the examination(s) for Incident Safety Officer as promulgated by the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-106 and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.28 HEALTH & SAFETY OFFICER

(1) A Health and Safety Officer shall successfully complete the requirements for Fire Officer I as prescribed in Commission rules, regulations, and policies.

(2) A Health and Safety Officer shall successfully complete a Commission-approved training program compliant with the NFPA 1521, Standard for Fire Department Safety Officer.

(3) A Health and Safety Officer shall pass the examination(s) for Health and Safety Officer as promulgated by the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-106 and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.29 RESERVED

History

Authority: T. C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106(4), and 4-24-107(3).
Administrative History: Original rule filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.30 ROPE AWARENESS

(1) An applicant for Rope Awareness shall successfully complete the requirements of Rope Awareness as prescribed in Commission rules, regulations, and policies.

(2) An applicant for Rope Awareness shall successfully complete a Commission-approved training program compliant with the NFPA 1006, Standard for Technical Rescue Professional Qualifications.

(3) An applicant for Rope Awareness shall pass the examination(s) for Rope Awareness as promulgated by the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.31 ROPE OPERATIONS

(1) An applicant for Rope Operations shall successfully complete the requirements of Rope Operations as prescribed in Commission rules, regulations, and policies.

(2) An applicant for Rope Operations shall successfully complete a Commission-approved training program compliant with the NFPA 1006, Standard for Technical Rescue Professional Qualifications.

(3) An applicant for Rope Operations shall pass the examination(s) for Rope Operations as promulgated by the Commission. An applicant may take the Rope Operations examination without waiting thirty (30) days after the Rope Awareness examination.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.32 ROPE TECHNICIAN

(1) An applicant for Rope Technician shall successfully complete the requirements of Rope Technician as prescribed in Commission rules, regulations, and policies.

(2) An applicant for Rope Technician shall successfully complete a Commission-approved training program compliant with the NFPA 1006, Standard for Technical Rescue Professional Qualifications.

(3) An applicant for Rope Technician shall pass the examination(s) for Rope Technician as promulgated by the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.33 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Repeal filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.34 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Repeal filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.35 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Repeal filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.36 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Repeal filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.37 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Repeal filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.38 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Repeal filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.39 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Repeal filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.40 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Repeal filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.41 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Repeal filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.42 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Repeal filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.43 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Repeal filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.44 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Repeal filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.45 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Repeal filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.46 EXTERIOR INDUSTRIAL FIRE BRIGADE MEMBER

(1) An Exterior Industrial Fire Brigade Member shall successfully pass the examination(s) for Exterior Industrial Fire Brigade Member as promulgated by the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.47 INTERIOR STRUCTURAL FIRE BRIGADE MEMBER

(1) An Interior Structural Fire Brigade Member shall successfully complete all of the requirements for Exterior Industrial Fire Brigade Member as prescribed in Commission rules, regulations, and policies.

(2) An Interior Structural Fire Brigade Member shall successfully pass the examination(s) for Interior Structural Fire Brigade Member as promulgated by the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.48 FIRE INSPECTOR I

(1) A Fire Inspector I shall have successfully completed the requirements for Hazardous Materials Awareness Certification.

(2) A Fire Inspector I shall successfully complete the requirements for Fire Inspector I as prescribed in NFPA 1030, Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Inspector and Plan Examiner, and Commission rules, regulations, and policy.

(3) A Fire Inspector I shall complete a Commission-approved training course and successfully pass the examination(s) for Fire Inspector I as promulgated by the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.49 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Repeal filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.50 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: New rule filed June 3, 2016; effective September 1, 2016. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Repeal filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.51 FIRE INVESTIGATOR I

(1) A Fire Investigator I shall successfully complete all of the requirements for Fire Investigator I as prescribed in NFPA 921, NFPA 1033, and Commission rules, regulations and policies .

(2) A Fire Investigator I shall complete a Commission-approved training course and successfully pass the examination(s) for Fire Investigator I as promulgated by the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: New rule filed June 3, 2016; effective September 1, 2016. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.52 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS TECHNICIAN

(1) A Hazardous Materials Technician shall successfully complete all requirements for Hazardous Materials Awareness Certification and Hazardous Materials Operations Certification as prescribed in NFPA 472 or NFPA 1072, and Commission rules, regulations and policies.

(2) A Hazardous Materials Technician shall successfully complete all requirements for Hazardous Materials Technician as prescribed in NFPA 472 or NFPA 1072, and Commission rules, regulations and policies.

(3) A Hazardous Materials Technician shall successfully complete a Commission-approved training course and satisfactorily pass the examination(s) for Hazardous Materials Technician as promulgated by the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed January 22, 2020; effective April 21, 2020.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.53 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS INCIDENT COMMANDER

(1) A Hazardous Materials Incident Commander shall successfully complete all requirements for Hazardous Materials Technician as prescribed in NFPA 472 or NFPA 1072, and Commission rules, regulations and policies.

(2) A Hazardous Materials Incident Commander shall successfully complete all requirements for Hazardous Materials Incident Commander as prescribed in NFPA 472 or NFPA 1072, NFPA 1561, and Commission rules, regulations and policies.

(3) A Hazardous Materials Incident Commander shall complete a Commission-approved training course and satisfactorily pass the examination(s) for Hazardous Materials Incident Commander as promulgated by the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed January 22, 2020; effective April 21, 2020.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.54 PLANS EXAMINER

(1) A Plans Examiner shall successfully complete the requirements for Plans Examiner as prescribed in NFPA 1030, Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Inspector and Plan Examiner, and Commission rules, regulations, and policies.

(2) A Plans Examiner shall complete a Commission-approved training course.

(3) A Plans Examiner shall successfully pass the examination(s) for Plans Examiner as promulgated by the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.55 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Repeal filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.56 FIRE MARSHAL

(1) A Fire Marshal shall successfully complete all of the requirements for Fire Marshal as prescribed in NFPA 1037, Standard on Fire Marshal Professional Qualifications, and Commission rules, regulations and policies.

(2) A Fire Marshal shall complete a Commission-approved training course.

(3) A Fire Marshal shall successfully pass the examination(s) for Fire Marshal as promulgated by the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-03-01-.57 AIRCRAFT RESCUE FIREFIGHTING (ARFF) DRIVER/OPERATOR

(1) An Aircraft Rescue Firefighting (ARFF) Driver/Operator shall successfully complete the requirements for Fire Fighter II as specified in NFPA 1001, Fire Fighter Professional Qualifications, Aircraft Rescue Firefighting (ARFF) Driver/Operator as prescribed in NFPA 1002, Standard for Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator Professional Qualifications, the requirements of Airport Firefighter as specified in NFPA 1003, Standard for Airport Fire Fighter Professional Qualifications, and Commission rules, regulations, and policies.

(2) An Aircraft Rescue Firefighting (ARFF) Driver/Operator shall complete a Commissionapproved training course.

(3) An Aircraft Rescue Firefighting (ARFF) Driver/Operator shall successfully pass the examination(s) for Aircraft Rescue Firefighting (ARFF) Driver/Operator as promulgated by the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Chapter 0360-04-01 Examinations

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-04-01-.01 GENERAL

(1) All training, practicals, and examinations shall be based on the performance standards for the appropriate progression level as set forth in these rules and regulations and meet or exceed all applicable NFPA standards, including NFPA 1500. All practicals and written examinations will be given at a location reasonably proximate to local departments to make it as convenient as possible for applicants.

(2) Generally, Commission representatives are prohibited from testing personnel from their affiliated department. However, Commission representatives may test personnel from their affiliated department only in a regional test setting and if a majority of the applicants are from other departments.

(3) An applicant shall be at least eighteen (18) years of age in order to take a certification examination and shall have completed the prerequisite training course at the Tennessee Fire Service and Codes Enforcement Academy (TFACA), or be connected to a fire department in Tennessee, or be a resident of Tennessee.

(4) Applicants shall present a valid government-issued photo identification card prior to being admitted to any examination.

(5) Commission members and Commission representatives who wish to sit for a Commissionadministered practical or written examination shall meet all requirements in order to register for the certification exam they wish to take. Members and representatives must notify the Director prior to testing for the certification exam. The exam shall be scheduled at any location other than the department in which they serve unless another Commissioner or Director remains present during the test event.

(6) Any individual found cheating on a Commission examination or found to have submitted falsified documentation to register for a Commission examination after a hearing pursuant to the UAPA, Consent Order, or Agreed Order shall be prohibited from participating in any Commission program for a period of time as determined by the Commission. Additionally, the individual shall be required to restart the certification level deemed appropriate by the Commission, considering the individual’s experience and the circumstances surrounding the incident. An individual found cheating a second time shall be barred from participating in any Commission program or in any certification.

(7) Applicants shall have twelve (12) months from the initial test date to complete both the practical and written examinations.

(8) Individuals called to active military duty shall have their deadlines to complete the practical examinations extended for the same period of time the applicant was on active military duty.

Furthermore, if the applicant is on active military duty for a period greater than six (6) months, the clock will restart on the time allowed for the practical examinations to be valid, and the applicant will have one (1) year to complete that level of certification. A letter from the Fire Chief or Training Officer certifying this leave shall accompany the application for written examination.

(9) An applicant may request accommodation for a disability in taking a written examination offered by the Commission. The request for accommodation shall be made on the form provided by the Commission and submitted to the Director along with the application. Any documentation regarding an applicant’s disability and the need for accommodation in testing shall be considered confidential.

(10) The specific editions of the professional standards referred to throughout this chapter are those adopted in Chapter 0360-06-01.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-04-01-.02 APPLICATIONS

(1) Any department electing to host an examination shall contact the Commission office or its representative to schedule an examination date. At the time of the examination, each individual applicant shall have a completed application submitted with appropriate documentation of necessary prerequisites.

(a) Applications for off-campus certification courses must be received by the Commission a minimum of two (2) weeks before any anticipated examination date.

(b) The Commission office shall schedule the examination date based upon requested examinations and availability of proctors.

(c) This examination date shall be open to other applicants unless prior approval of the Director for a closed examination has been obtained.

(d) The Commission representative shall administer the examination on the examination date. At the end of the examination, the Commission representative shall collect all examination materials and answer sheets and send them to the Commission for grading.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-04-01-.03 CHARACTER OF EXAMINATIONS

(1) Commission testing, both written and practical, shall be in accordance with the appropriate adopted NFPA standards referenced in 0360-06-01 and in accordance with the rules of the accrediting body/bodies. A Commission representative or designee shall chair a committee of fire service personnel who are certified at or above the level of certification being validated.

(2) Practical examinations shall meet the job performance requirements for the tested standard and shall be used to determine the ability, manual skills, and leadership of the applicant to perform the work at a particular progression level.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-04-01-.04 GRADING

(1) Written - The Commission shall prepare exams with the identified correct answer to each question. Commission office personnel will be responsible for the grading of each examination. A passing grade shall be seventy percent (70%) on the examination.

(a) Disputes over the validity of any question(s), but no more than five (5), on the Commission’s examinations shall be submitted to the Commission, in writing, on the back of the answer sheet or on a blank sheet of paper used during the examination.

The disputed questions shall be submitted by the student prior to leaving the test event.

The student must clearly state the nature of the dispute for each question.

(b) The Commission’s Executive Director and Accreditation Manager shall review the disputed question(s) and render a final decision on the disputed questions.

(2) Practical - The Commission shall designate a qualified individual to conduct the practical examinations. The Commission shall require that each examinee perform these activities and grade that performance on a pass or fail basis.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-04-01-.05 RETESTING

An applicant may not retake the examination until at least fifteen (15) days after the initial examination.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-106 and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1990. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Repeal and new rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-04-01-.06 EXAMINATION FORM

(1) Examinations shall consist of a practical and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards.

(a) The practical examination requirements for Fire Fighter I shall consist of all of the following:

A practical examination administered on a regional basis. This practical examination shall be developed by the Commission based on and meeting the standards in NFPA 1001.
A live burn practical examination shall be completed from one (1) of the following options:

(i) Successful completion of the Tennessee Fire Service and Codes Enforcement Academy’s Fire Fighter I Live Burn course or Fire Fighter I and II Live Burn course. A Live Burn Suppression Verification Form shall be completed and attached/uploaded to the “Application for Written Examination”; or (ii) Successful completion of the live burn objectives in NFPA 1001 for Fire Fighter I during a live burn training. All of the exercises listed on the Live Burn Suppression Verification Sheet for the appropriate level shall be completed through the local department’s training program. A Live Burn Suppression Verification Form shall be completed and attached to the “Application for Written Examination.” The department shall provide the Commission with a minimum of fourteen (14) working days’ notice by submitting an Application for Live Burn Training. A Commission or staff member may witness any live burn exercises conducted by a department.

This option shall be completed during a training exercise; no working fires shall be utilized for this option.

(b) An applicant shall obtain a Fire Fighter I certification within one hundred twenty (120) months of completing a live burn practical examination. After one hundred twenty (120) months, successful completion of an additional live burn practical examination shall be required in order to obtain a Fire Fighter I certification.

(2) The examination for Fire Fighter II shall consist of a practical and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the relevant certification as the adopted in NFPA standards.

(a) The practical examination requirements for Fire Fighter II shall consist of all the following:

A practical examination administered on a regional basis. This practical examination shall be developed by the Commission based on and meeting the standards in NFPA 1001.
A live burn practical examination shall be completed from one (1) of the following options:

(i) Successful completion of the Tennessee Fire Service and Codes Enforcement Academy’s Fire Fighter II Live Burn course or Fire Fighter I and II Live Burn course. A Live Burn Suppression Verification Form shall be completed and attached/uploaded to the “Application for Written Examination”; or (ii) Successful completion of the live burn objectives in NFPA 1001 for Fire Fighter II during a live burn training. All of the exercises listed on the Live Burn Suppression Verification Sheet for the appropriate level shall be completed through the local department’s training program. A Live Burn Suppression Verification Form shall be completed and attached to the “Application for Written Examination.” The department shall provide the Commission with a minimum of fourteen (14) working days’ notice by submitting an Application for Live Burn Training. A Commission or staff member may witness any live burn exercises conducted by a department.

This option shall be completed during a training exercise; no working fires shall be utilized for this option.

(b) After June 30, 2016, a live burn practical examination, as part of the Fire Fighter II performance examination requirements, shall be based upon the current standard as adopted by reference in Chapter 0360-06-01-.01.

(c) An applicant shall obtain a Fire Fighter II certification within one hundred twenty (120) months of successfully completing a live burn practical examination. After one hundred twenty (120) months, successful completion of an additional live burn practical examination shall be required in order to obtain a Fire Fighter II certification.

(3) Every Commission certification recipient shall have completed a Commission approved course that shall consist of a practical examination and written examination substantially derived from the performance standards of that certification as referenced in Chapter 0360- 06-01.

(4) The examination for Fire Department Instructor I shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Fire Department Instructor I as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01.

Any applicant challenging the Fire Department Instructor I written examination shall complete the Fire Department Instructor I Practical Skills Checklist provided by the Commission. This practical is to be graded by an individual certified by the Tennessee Commission on Fire Fighting as either a Fire Department Instructor I or a Vocational and Higher Education Instructor. A completed copy of the checklist shall be attached to the “Application for Written Examination.”

(5) The examination for Fire Department Instructor II shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Fire Department Instructor II as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01.

The practical examination for the Fire Department Instructor II shall consist of completing a prescribed Fire Department Instructor II workbook meeting the current standard.

(6) The examination for Fire Department Instructor III shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested will be substantially derived from the performance standards for Fire Department Instructor III as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01.

(7) The examination for Fire Officer I shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested will be substantially derived from the performance standards for Fire Officer I as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01. The practical examination for Fire Officer I shall consist of completing projects which shall be administered by the Commission in conjunction with written examinations. The practical requirement shall be completion of two (2) projects assigned to the applicant at random which are derived from NFPA 1021. These projects will be graded by designated Commission representatives.

(8) The examination for Fire Officer II shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested will be substantially derived from the performance standards for Fire Officer II as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01. The practical examination for Fire Officer II shall consist of completing a project based on NFPA 1021 for Fire Officer II.

The project may be obtained from the Commission. This project will be graded by the Commission.

(9) The examination for Fire Officer III shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested will be substantially derived from the performance standards for Fire Officer III as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01. The practical examination for Fire Officer III shall consist of completing a project based on NFPA 1021 for Fire Officer III.

The project may be obtained from the Commission. This project will be graded by the Commission.

(10) The examination for Fire Officer IV shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Fire Officer IV as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01. An applicant shall successfully complete the practical examination for Fire Officer IV as promulgated by the Commission utilizing the standards outlined in NFPA 1021, Chapter 7.

(11) The examination for Hazardous Materials Awareness shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Hazardous Materials Awareness as set forth in Chapter 0360-06- 01.

(a) The practical examination for Hazardous Materials Awareness may be part of the Fire Fighter I practical or administered separately and shall be based upon NFPA 472 or NFPA 1072 for the appropriate level.

(b) The written examination for Hazardous Materials Awareness may be administered in conjunction with the Hazardous Materials Operations Certification written examination or may be administered separately.

(12) The examination for Hazardous Materials Operations shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Hazardous Materials Operations as set forth in Chapter 0360-06- 01.

(a) The practical examination for Hazardous Materials Operations may be part of the Fire Fighter I practical or administered separately and shall be based upon NFPA 472 or NFPA 1072 for the appropriate level.

(b) The written examination for Hazardous Materials Operations may be administered in conjunction with the Hazardous Materials Awareness Certification written examination or may be administered separately.

(13) The examination for Airport Firefighter shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Airport Firefighter as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01. The practical examination requirements for Airport Firefighter shall consist of all the following:

(a) A practical examination administered on a regional basis. This practical examination shall be developed by the Commission based on the standards in NFPA 1003;

(b) A live burn practical examination shall be completed. One (1) of the following options shall be completed:

Completion of a Federal Aviation Administration training course where, at minimum, all requirements of the Commission’s Airport Live Burn Verification Sheet are accomplished; or 2. All of the exercises listed on the Airport Live Burn Suppression Verification Sheet for the appropriate level shall be completed through the local airport fire department’s training program. An Airport Live Burn Suppression Verification Form shall be completed and attached to the “Application for Written Examination”. The department shall provide the Commission with a minimum of seventy-two (72) hours prior notification of live burn exercises. A Commission member or staff may witness any live burn exercises conducted by a department.

This option shall be completed during a training exercise; no working fires may be utilized for this option.

(14) The examination for Wildland Firefighter I shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Wildland Firefighter I as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01. The practical examination for Wildland Firefighter I shall consist of one (1) of the following:

(a) Completion of a practical examination based upon NFPA 1051 which has been submitted to the Commission for approval; or (b) Completion of the “Task Book for the Position of Firefighter Type 2” offered by the Tennessee Division of Forestry.

(15) The examination for Wildland Firefighter II shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Wildland Firefighter II as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01. The practical examination for Wildland Firefighter II shall consist of one (1) of the following:

(a) Completion of a practical examination based upon NFPA 1051 which has been submitted to the Commission for approval; or (b) Completion of the “Task Book for the Position of Advanced Firefighter/Squad Boss” offered by the Tennessee Division of Forestry.

(16) The examination for Fire and Life Educator I shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Fire and Life Safety Educator I as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01. The practical examination for Fire and Life Safety Educator I shall consist of completing a project based upon NFPA 1035 for the appropriate level and returning it to the Commission for grading. The project may be obtained from the Commission.

(17) The examination for Fire and Life Educator II shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Fire and Life Safety Educator II as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01. The practical examination for Fire and Life Safety Educator II shall consist of completing a project based upon NFPA 1035 for the appropriate level and returning it to the Commission for grading. The project may be obtained from the Commission.

(18) The examination for Fire Apparatus Operator shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Fire Apparatus Operator as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01. The applicant shall complete a practical examination promulgated by the Commission utilizing the standards outlined in NFPA 1002, Chapters 4, 5, and 6. In order to sit for the test before completing the prerequisite courses for this level, the applicant shall perform the evolutions on both pumper and aerial apparatus equipment.

(19) The examination for Pumper Driver/Operator shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Pumper Driver/Operator as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01. The applicant shall complete a practical examination promulgated by the Commission utilizing the standards outlined in NFPA 1002, Chapters 4 and 5.

(20) The examination for Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator as set forth in Chapter 0360-06- 01. The applicant shall complete a practical examination promulgated by the Commission utilizing the standards outlined in NFPA 1002, Chapters 4 and 6.

(21) The examination for Incident Safety Officer shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Incident Safety Officer as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01. The practical examination for Incident Safety Officer shall be the completion of a written project of the Incident Safety Officer’s role, duties, and responsibilities in accordance with NFPA 1521, OSHA, and other standards given an incident scenario provided by the Commission. The applicant will be provided the incident scenario in a written examination setting. This project will be evaluated by a Committee of the Commission which will meet in conjunction with a regularly scheduled Commission meeting on an as-needed basis. Successful completion of this project shall qualify the applicant to take the written examination for Incident Safety Officer.

(22) The examination for Health and Safety Officer shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Health and Safety Officer as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01. The practical examination for Health and Safety Officer shall be the completion of a written outline of the Health and Safety Officer’s role, duties, and responsibilities in accordance with NFPA 1521, OSHA, and other standards given an incident scenario provided by the Commission. The applicant will be provided the incident scenario in a written examination setting. This outline will be evaluated by a Committee of the Commission. Successful completion of this outline shall qualify the applicant to take the written examination for Health and Safety Officer.

(23) The examination for Rope Awareness shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Rope Awareness as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01. The applicant shall complete a practical examination promulgated by the Commission utilizing the standards outlined in NFPA 1006, Chapters 4 and 5.

(24) The examination for Rope Operations shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Rope Operations as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01. The applicant shall complete a practical examination promulgated by the Commission utilizing the standards outlined in NFPA 1006, Chapters 5 and 6.

(25) The examination for Rope Technician shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Rope Technician as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01.

(26) The examination for Interior Structural Fire Brigade Member shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Interior Structural Fire Brigade Member as set forth in

Chapter 0360-06-01. The applicant shall complete a practical examination promulgated by the Commission utilizing the standards outlined in NFPA 1081, Chapters 4 and 7.

(27) The examination for Fire Inspector shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Fire Inspector as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01. The applicant shall complete a practical examination promulgated by the Commission utilizing the standards outlined in NFPA 1031, Chapter 4.

(28) The examination for Fire Investigator I shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Fire Investigator I as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01. The applicant shall complete a practical examination promulgated by the Commission utilizing the standards outlined in NFPA 1033.

(29) The examination for Hazardous Materials Technician shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Hazardous Materials Technician as set forth in Chapter 0360-06- 01. The applicant shall complete a practical examination promulgated by the Commission utilizing the standards outlined in NFPA 472 or NFPA 1072.

(30) The examination for Hazardous Materials Incident Commander shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Hazardous Materials Incident Commander as set forth in

Chapter 0360-06-01. The applicant shall complete a practical examination promulgated by the Commission utilizing the standards outlined in NFPA 472 or NFPA 1072.

(31) The examination for Plans Reviewer shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Plans Reviewer as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01. The applicant shall complete a practical examination promulgated by the Commission utilizing the standards outlined in NFPA 1031.

(32) The examination for Fire Marshal shall consist of a practical examination and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Fire Marshal as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01. The applicant shall complete a practical examination promulgated by the Commission utilizing the standards outlined in NFPA 1037.

(33) The examination for Aircraft Rescue Firefighting (ARFF) Driver/Operator shall consist of a practical and a written examination. The subjects tested shall be substantially derived from the performance standards for Aircraft Rescue Firefighting (ARFF) Driver/Operator as set forth in Chapter 0360-06-01. The applicant shall complete a practical examination promulgated by the Commission utilizing the standards outlined in NFPA 1002, Chapters 4 and 9.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, 4-24-107, and 4-24-110.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Repeal and new rule filed October 14, 1994; effective February 28, 1995. Repeal and new rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Amendments filed October 5, 2010; effective March 31, 2011. Amendments filed August 2, 2011; effective January 29, 2012. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed June 3, 2016; effective September 1, 2016. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed January 22, 2020; effective April 21, 2020. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-04-01-.07 RESERVED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-207.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Repeal filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-04-01-.08 WRITTEN EXAMINATIONS

(1) Written examinations shall be scheduled and conducted by the Commission office or representative.

(2) The Commission representative shall ensure that the site meets the requirements established in policy prior to the start of the written examination.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-04-01-.09 PRACTICAL EXAMINATIONS

(1) One department may administer a practical examination to another participating department and/or may enroll students from another department in a course provided the following conditions are met:

(a) The administering department’s practical examination has been approved by the Commission;

(b) Both departments have agreed to allow the applicant(s) to utilize the administering department’s practical examination; and (c) Proof of successful completion of the practical examination is sent to the applicant’s department and placed on file.

(2) The application for a practical examination shall be submitted by the department of which the applicant is a member and the examination results will be forwarded to that department.

(3) (a) For practical or live burn practical examinations, compliance with 29 CFR 1910.134, Respiratory Protection Standards, is required. An applicant is required to have been Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) fit tested within twelve (12) months of the examination and a SCBA Fit Testing Verification form is to be completed. Appropriate documentation shall include:

The signature of the Fire Chief from the applicant’s sponsoring department; and 2. Documentation from an authorized fit-testing entity.

(b) No one shall be allowed to participate in the practical or live burn practical examination in which a SCBA is used unless the fit testing is documented.

(c) Applicants for Tennessee State Fire Commission Certification in Fire Fighter I or II practical examinations or live burn practical examinations, who have beards or facial hair in the area of the SCBA face piece seal (examples may include, but not be limited to: full-face beards, muttonchops, goatees, sideburns, mustaches, or even a few days growth of stubble) shall not be allowed to participate in the practical examination if the facial hair between the wearer’s skin and the sealing surfaces of the face piece prevents a good seal with the respirator. A firefighter shall not enter an area in which it has been determined that respirator protection is necessary when conditions prevent a good seal of the respirator face piece to the face. This provision shall be enforced regardless of the live burn skills being tested at any site. No exceptions to this provision shall be granted. This provision is in conjunction with 29 CFR 1910.134 Respiratory Protection Standard.

(d) Ordinary eyeglasses shall not be used with full face piece respirators. Eye glasses with temple bars or straps that pass between the sealing surface of a full face piece and the firefighter’s face will prevent a good seal. Special spectacle kits may be ordered and mounted inside a full face piece respirator, but will not be provided.

(4) (a) For Regional Practical Examinations, a department shall furnish a minimum of one (1)

Evaluator for every two (2) applicants that the department submits for examination.

(b) Evaluators shall be certified by the Commission at a minimum of Fire Fighter II level (Fire Fighter III for 1987 NFPA Standard or earlier) and are strongly encouraged to be certified at the Fire Department Instructor I level.

(c) Evaluators are strongly encouraged to complete a Commission-approved examination before being allowed to serve as an Evaluator. The Evaluator training and examination may be available online over the Internet.

(5) Regional Practical Examination Site Requirements. The department hosting a regional practical examination shall meet the following conditions:

(a) Have adequate space to conduct the practical examinations;

(b) Be able to provide all equipment required for the examination, excluding the equipment eachapplicant shall provide in accordance with Commission rules;

(c) Provide a member of the host department who has attended a regional practical examination before hosting one within the department;

(d) Provide a minimum of three (3) evaluators who are certified by the Commission at a minimum of Fire Fighter II level (Fire Fighter III for 1987 NFPA Standard or earlier), and preferably who are certified at the Fire Department Instructor I level;

(e) Attest that the site and equipment meet the requirements of the program and all applicable standards; and (f) Provide practical examinations equipment for firefighters that has been inspected and meets all applicable NFPA safety standards.

(6) All instructors, evaluators, and approved applicants who participate in a live burn practical shall meet the requirements of Chapter 4, Section 4.3, Student Prerequisites, of the latest adopted edition of NFPA 1403. Written documentation of completion of this training shall be kept on file by the department and shall be subject to audit by the Commission. All requirements listed in the Live Burn Training Requirements Book shall be completed.

(7) Practical skill sheets shall be available to all applicants through the Commission website.

(8) Practical examination sites shall have adequate space to safely hold the examination. The site shall have an isolated holding area for the applicants waiting to take the examination and a separate area for applicants who have completed the examination. The Commission representative shall ensure that the site meets these requirements prior to the start of the examination.

(9) Guidelines for Practical and Live Burn Practical Examinations (a) No fee shall be charged by the Commission for these examinations.

(b) Practical regional examination sites will be established in each Commission representative’s territory, on an as-needed basis, to meet the needs of the fire departments within their territories.

(c) Live Burn Practical examination sites will be established by the Commission representatives in conjunction with a department’s ability to host these types of practical examinations which shall be NFPA 1403 compliant.

(d) Applicants may travel out of their region to take examinations at other sites.

(e) The Commission representative shall conduct a training seminar for evaluators prior to each practical examination to ensure the evaluators understand examination procedures, grading procedures, performance criteria, and instructions on completing required paperwork. The Commission shall provide the Commission representative with documents to be utilized during this training. Any evaluator who fails to attend this training shall not be allowed to serve as an evaluator.

(f) Applications to sit for the practical examination before completing the course prerequisites shall be submitted to the Commission a minimum of two (2) weeks prior to the examination date. A minimum of ten (10) applicants shall be scheduled in order to conduct the practical examinations; a maximum of fifty (50) applicants may be tested per day.

(g) An applicant who fails any evolution shall be notified immediately of the failure and will be allowed to leave the practical immediately.

(h) Copies of the entire practical examination will be provided to all departments. A copy may also be requested by individuals from the Commission Office either by e-mail or mail.

(i) Applicants who complete the examination shall remain at the host facility until the end of the day to assist in cleaning and restoring the host facility to original condition prior to receiving test results. Leaving early shall result in automatic failure unless the applicant is given permission to leave by the Commission representative.

(j) Applicants who have completed their practical examination shall remain separate from those waiting to sit for the examination before completing course prerequisites.

(k) Applicants waiting to sit for the practical examination before completing the course prerequisites shall be secluded from the actual practical examination. Under no circumstances shall an applicant waiting to sit for the practical examination before completing the prerequisite courses be allowed to see the practical examinations being administered or be in contact with any individual who has completed the practical examination.

(l) The applicant or the applicant’s sponsoring department shall provide at least one (1)

SCBA and mask, and each applicant shall bring a mask which has been fit tested.

(m) The applicant or the applicant’s sponsoring department shall inspect each applicant’s equipment to ensure it meets current additions of applicable safety standards.

(n) Each applicant shall bring his/her own personal protective equipment (e.g., helmet, turnout gear, gloves, and coat) including SCBA.

(o) The host department shall provide the equipment to be used for testing (e.g., ladders, hose, etc.).

(p) The applicant shall assume liability in case of injury. A statement to this effect is included on the application which shall be signed by the applicant.

(q) The Commission will solicit individuals who are Fire Fighter II or Fire Instructor I certified or individuals deemed by the Commission to be subject matter experts in the area of firefighting and are interested in serving as evaluators. Individuals shall submit their names and qualifications. This list of names will be maintained by the Commission office which will rotate through the names for each examination. Individuals may add their names at any time.

(r) An applicant shall perform the practical skills examinations as required for each class of certification. An applicant may not refuse to perform a practical skills examination even if the department does not have the equipment specified to perform that practical skill.

(s) The Commission representative shall have the authority to adopt these guidelines to address specific life safety problems as they arise.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed January 22, 2020; effective April 21, 2020. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Chapter 0360-05-01 Revocation of Certification

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-05-01-.01 FAILURE TO MEET CERTAIN CONDITIONS

(1) The Commission may revoke, modify, suspend, or condition its certification of an individual, a training course, or a training program if it finds, after appropriate notice and hearing, that:

(a) The requirements for certification had not been met prior to certification;

(b) Any continuing responsibilities associated with certification are not being fulfilled;

(c) Any fraud, collusion, misrepresentation or substantial mistake was involved in the procurement of, or in maintaining the on-going requirements of the certification;

(d) Any involvement of a certified individual who engages in fraud, collusion, conspiracy to subvert the certification qualification process or to procure a certification for another person; or (e) The certified individual has failed to adhere to the Code of Ethics adopted by the Commission on Firefighting Personnel Standards and Education.

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-05-01-.02 SEPARATION FROM ACTIVE FIRE SERVICE

(1) An individual’s certification(s) shall automatically terminate sixty (60) months after such person ceases to be an active member of a fire department.

(2) It shall be the responsibility of each individual and each fire department to notify the Commission of any fire service personnel leaving a fire department, including but not limited to the following reasons: separation, termination, or retirement.

(3) Work as a Commission member, Commission staff, or TFACA staff shall constitute continued work in the fire service and shall not be considered as a separation from active fire service if that individual is no longer employed by a fire department.

(4) Individuals leaving the fire service for active military duty shall not be subject to termination of certification while on active duty as stated in this part. It shall be the responsibility of each fire department to notify the Commission in writing of any individual leaving the fire department on active military duty for more than twelve (12) months. This notification shall be submitted at the end of each twelve (12) month period.

(5) An individual’s certification(s) shall terminate sixty (60) months from the date of obtaining certification(s) if the individual has not become affiliated with a fire department. If the individual does become affiliated with a department, it is the responsibility of the individual to have the fire department notify the Commission Office by submitting written notice on a form as prescribed by the Commission of the date of said affiliation.

(6) Work as a full-time or part-time employee of a unit of government (local, state, or federal) in the State of Tennessee, where the job responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the training of fire fighters, fire investigations, fire inspections, or affiliation with a fire department recognized by the State Fire Marshal shall not be considered to be a separation from active fire service. It is the responsibility of an individual to provide proof to the Commission that his/her new job duties include training of fire fighters, fire investigations, fire inspections, or affiliation with a recognized fire department in the State of Tennessee.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101 and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Amendment filed October 14, 1994; effective February 28, 1995. Repeal and new rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Amendment filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-05-01-.03 APPLICABILITY OF THE UNIFORM ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES ACT

The Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in T.C.A. Title 4, Chapter 5, shall govern all matters and procedures respecting the hearing and judicial review of any contested case arising under this

chapter.

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018.

Chapter 0360-06-01 Miscellaneous Certification Standards

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-06-01-.01 ADOPTION BY REFERENCE

(1) The Commission adopts by reference the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

Standards in their entirety as performance standards:

(a) 470 Hazardous Materials/Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) Standard for Responders, 2022 Edition;

(b) 1001 Standard for Fire Fighter Professional Qualifications, 2019 Edition;

(d) 1003 Standard for Airport Fire Fighter Professional Qualifications, 2019 Edition;

(e) 1005 Standard for Professional Qualifications for Marine Fire Fighting for Land-Based Fire Fighters, 2019 Edition;

(f) 1006 Standard for Technical Rescuer Professional Qualifications, 2021 Edition;

(g) 1021 Standard for Fire Officer Professional Qualifications, 2020 Edition;

(h) 1030 Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Prevention Program Positions, 2024 Edition;

(i) 1033 Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Investigator, 2022 Edition;

(j) 1035 Standard on Fire and Life Safety Educator, Public Information Officer, Youth Firesetter Intervention Specialist and Youth Firesetter Program Manager Professional Qualifications, 2024 Edition;

(k) 1037 Standard on Fire Marshal Professional Qualifications, 2024 Edition;

(l) 1041 Standard for Fire Service Instructor Professional Qualifications, 2019 Edition;

(m) 1140 Standard for Wildland Fire Protection, 2022 Edition;

(n) 1081 Standard for Industrial Fire Brigade Member Professional Qualifications, 2018 Edition;

(o) 1403 Standard on Live Burn Training Evolutions, 2018 Edition;

(p) 1500 Standard on Fire Department Occupational Safety and Health Program, 2021 Edition; and, (q) 1521 Standard for Fire Department Safety Officer, 2020 Edition.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, 4-24-107, and 4-24-110.
Administrative History: Original rule filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Amendment filed October 14, 1994; effective February 28, 1995. Repeal and new rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Amendments filed August 2, 2011; effective January 29, 2012. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments and new rules filed June 3, 2016; effective September 1, 2016. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed January 22, 2020; effective April 21, 2020. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025. Amendments filed November 6, 2025; effective February 4, 2026.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-06-01-.02 REPEALED

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-106 and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed October 14, 1995; effective February 28, 1995. Repeal filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-06-01-.03 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE TRAINING

The Commission’s curriculum requirements on firefighting standards and education shall include materials concerning domestic violence training pursuant to T.C.A. § 4-24-111.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-107 and 4-24-111.
Administrative History: Original rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-06-01-.04 PROGRESSION

(1) Fire service personnel who have been certified at a specific progression level may take the examination for a lower (regression) level.

(2) If an applicant who has already achieved certification at a particular level(s) under prior NFPA standards wishes to achieve certification for those levels after the date Tennessee becomes accredited, the applicant will be allowed to do so and the waiting period shall not apply. The applicant will be required to complete all the requirements for the level(s) of certification sought.

(3) Unless otherwise prescribed in these rules, an applicant may progress to the next level of certification after achieving the prior certification level.

(4) A thirty (30) day waiting period is in effect only for those dependent levels of certification that require a prerequisite level of certification prior to testing at the desired level. For example, an applicant shall be required to wait thirty (30) days between Fire Instructor I and Fire Officer I examinations because Fire Instructor I is a prerequisite for Fire Officer I. However, an applicant shall be eligible to test on the same day for both Airport Firefighter and Fire Officer I if an applicant meets the prerequisite requirements for each level because neither level of certification is a prerequisite or dependent on the other level of certification.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101 and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-06-01-.05 RECIPROCITY

(1) Reciprocity of certification shall be considered by the Commission for applicants who have achieved certification from another agency that has achieved national accreditation from an organization recognized by the Commission and who meet the criteria established by the Commission.

(2) The following shall be submitted to request reciprocity:

(a) Application for reciprocity with a list of certification(s) for which the applicant is requesting reciprocity;

(b) Documentation that the applicant has not been separated from the fire service for more than sixty (60) months from the date of applying for reciprocity;

(c) Proof of certification (copies of certificates). Certificates of attendance shall not constitute proof of certification; and (d) Proof of applicant’s residency in Tennessee or documentation of support, sponsorship, or employment by a fire chief or department recognized pursuant to T.C.A. §§ 68-102- 301, et seq.

(3) When considering whether to grant reciprocity to another jurisdiction’s certifications, the Commission shall grant reciprocity only if all the following criteria are met:

(a) The certification is issued by an entity accredited by IFSAC or Pro Board, the certification is in the registry of the national accrediting agency, and the certification is issued after the date the entity became accredited;

(b) The applicant has not been out of the fire service for a period of sixty (60) months or more; and (c) The Commission receives proof of the applicant’s residency in Tennessee or a letter of support, sponsorship, or employment from a fire chief or recognized department employing or appointing the applicant.

(4) If reciprocity is granted, the Commission shall issue a letter recognizing the applicant’s certifications in the State of Tennessee and this recognition shall meet the requirements of certification in Tennessee.

(5) For progression purposes in the Certification Program and for purposes related to Educational Incentive Pay, the date of recognition of the certification shall be used for “Date of Certification.”

(6) If a fire department requires or an individual, who has received reciprocity of a level of certification, chooses to pursue certification in the State of Tennessee, the applicant shall be eligible to pursue certification but shall be required to meet all of the certification requirements.

(7) The Commission shall not recognize a certification issued by a fire department in Tennessee even if that fire department is accredited by a national accrediting agency.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, 4-24-107, and 4-24-202.
Administrative History: Original rule filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Amendments filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments and new rules filed June 3, 2016; effective September 1, 2016. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Chapter 0360-07-01 Educational Incentive Pay

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-07-01-.01 MINIMUM STANDARDS

(1) All persons who are hired as a firefighter by an eligible unit of government on or after January 1, 1986, or who volunteer with a fire department on or after July 1, 2021, shall:

(a) Be at least eighteen (18) years of age;

(b) Be a citizen of the United States;

(d) Not have been convicted of any felony charge, have not pled guilty to any felony charge, have not entered a plea of nolo contendere to any felony charge that directly relates to the profession of firefighting subject to the Fresh Start Act;

(e) Not have been released or discharged for any other reason than honorable discharge from any of the armed forces of the United States;

(f) Be in compliance with the fire department’s drug-free workplace program and policy;

(g) Be proficient in the English language, both written and spoken, in accordance with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1001, 1072 and 1582 and be proficient in identifying hazardous materials; and (h) Have a good moral character in accordance with the Code of Ethics adopted by the Commission on Firefighting Personnel Standards and Education; or (i) Have successfully appealed such cause of ineligibility to the appropriate local authority having jurisdiction.

(2) The local authority having jurisdiction may establish minimum standards for its department that are more stringent than these standards established by the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-107 and 4-24-202.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Amendment filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Emergency rules filed September 2, 2021; effective through March 1, 2022. Emergency rules expired effective March 2, 2022, and the rules reverted to their previous statuses. Amendments filed August 29, 2022; effective November 27, 2022.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-07-01-.02 FIREFIGHTER ELIGIBILITY

(1) For the purpose of qualifying for the Volunteer Educational Incentive Pay Program, a person must meet the following criteria:

(a) Serve as a volunteer firefighter as defined in T.C.A. § 4-24-201(4) with a fire department recognized pursuant to T.C.A. §§ 68-102-301 et seq.; and (b) Complete thirty (30) hours of in-service training in firefighting or prevention of fires approved by the Commission.

(2) For the purpose of qualifying for the Career Educational Incentive Pay Program, a person must meet the following criteria:

(a) Serve in the employ of a municipality, county or political subdivision as a full-time employee of the fire department recognized pursuant to T.C.A. §§ 68-102-301 et seq.; and (b) Complete forty (40) hours of in-service training in firefighting or prevention of fires approved by the Commission and be actively engaged in such work.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-107 and 4-24-201.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Amendment filed October 14, 1994; effective February 28, 1995. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Emergency rules filed September 2, 2021; effective through March 1, 2022. Emergency rules expired effective March 2, 2022, and the rules reverted to their previous statuses. Amendments filed August 29, 2022; effective November 27, 2022.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-07-01-.03 RESERVED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed September 30, 1983; effective December 14, 1983. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Amendment filed October 14, 1994; effective February 28, 1995. Repeal filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-07-01-.04 ENTRY LEVEL PERSONNEL

(1) (a) It shall be mandatory for all qualified volunteer firefighters to become certified, when eligible, at the Fire Fighter I level in order to become eligible for educational incentive pay.

(b) It shall be mandatory for all qualified career firefighters to become certified, when eligible, at the Fire Fighter I level and progress when eligible through the Fire Fighter II level of certification in order to become eligible for educational incentive pay.

(2) (a) 1. The volunteer firefighter must complete the sixteen (16) hour Introduction to Fire and Emergency Services Course, the sixty-four (64) hour Basic Firefighting Course, and the Commission-approved Live Burn by the end of the calendar year in which the volunteer reaches the firefighter’s thirty-sixth (36th) month of service with a recognized department, or within thirty-six (36) months after July 1, 2021.

This requirement will be satisfied if the firefighter can show proof of having completed the sixteen (16) hour Introduction to Fire and Emergency Services Course, the sixty-four (64) hour Basic Firefighting Course, Commission-approved Live Burn within ten (10) years of December 31, 2021, or Fire Fighter I or above, having no break in service exceeding sixty (60) months.

A volunteer firefighter must complete Fire Fighter I, Hazardous Materials Awareness, and Hazardous Materials Operations certification levels by the end of the calendar year in which the volunteer applicant reaches his/her sixtieth (60th) month of service with a recognized department, or within the firefighter’s sixtieth (60th) month after July 1, 2021. Firefighters who have not obtained Fire Fighter I, Hazardous Materials Awareness, and Hazardous Materials Operations certification after that date shall not be eligible for educational incentive pay until required certification(s) have been obtained. This requirement will be satisfied if the firefighter can show proof of having completed Fire Fighter I and no break in service exceeding sixty (60) months.

(b) A career firefighter must complete Fire Fighter I, Fire Fighter II, Hazardous Materials Awareness, and Hazardous Materials Operations certification levels by the end of the calendar year in which the applicant reaches the applicant’s thirty-sixth (36th) month of employment with a participating fire department. Firefighters who have not obtained Fire Fighter I, Fire Fighter II, Hazardous Materials Awareness, and Hazardous Materials Operations certification after that date shall not be eligible for educational incentive pay until required certification(s) have been obtained.

(3) Qualified personnel, who are separated from the fire service for a period of greater than sixty (60) months and then reenter the fire service shall subsequently obtain certification in accordance with rule 0360-05-01-.02.

(4) Individuals hired into a department as Fire Safety Inspectors after December 31, 1990, and who are not trained in fire suppression, may meet the requirements of this section by completing certification as prescribed by T.C.A. § 68-120-113 by the end of the calendar year in which they reach their twelfth (12th) month of employment. If an individual is hired as a Fire Safety Inspector and later transfers to fire suppression, the individual shall achieve Fire Fighter I, Fire Fighter II, Hazardous Materials Awareness, and Hazardous Materials Operations certifications within thirty-six (36) months after the transfer date.

(5) Individuals hired into a department as Public Fire and Life Safety Educators after December 31, 1990, and who are not trained in fire suppression may meet the requirements of this

section by completing certifications as Public Fire and Life Safety Educator I and Public Fire and Life Safety Educator II by the end of the calendar year in which they reach their twentyfourth (24th) month of employment. If an individual is hired as a Public Fire and Life Safety Educator and later transfers to fire suppression, the individual shall achieve Fire Fighter I, Fire Fighter II, Hazardous Materials Awareness, and Hazardous Materials Operations certifications within thirty-six (36) months after the transfer date.

(6) The date an individual became employed as a firefighter or volunteered as a firefighter, respectively, for participation in the Educational Incentive Pay Program shall be the date used to calculate deadlines for certification.

(7) All career fire departments participating in the Educational Incentive Pay Program shall ensure that their qualified personnel obtain the Fire Fighter II level of certification no later than the thirty-sixth (36th) month from the date the department enters into the Educational Incentive Pay Program. Department personnel that have not obtained the required certification(s), as provided in rule 0360-07-01-.04(1)(a) and (b) and (2)(a) and (b), shall be ineligible to receive educational incentive pay until the required certification(s) have been obtained.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, 4-24-107, 4-24-201, and 4-24-202.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed September 30, 1983; effective December 14, 1983. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Repeal and new rule filed October 14, 1994; effective February 28, 1995. Amendment filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Emergency rules filed September 2, 2021; effective through March 1, 2022. Emergency rules expired effective March 2, 2022, and the rules reverted to their previous statuses. Amendments filed August 29, 2022; effective November 27, 2022. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-07-01-.05 REQUIREMENTS FOR IN-SERVICE TRAINING PROGRAMS

(1) Length of Training (a) Certified or recognized programs shall be of at least forty (40) hours duration for the career Educational Incentive Pay and at least thirty (30) hours duration for the volunteer Educational Incentive Pay. A department may count one (1) hour for testing as part of the department’s In-Service Training Program.

(b) Instructor led program(s) shall be scheduled for not less than two (2) hours.

(2) Appointment of Training Coordinator (a) Each department conducting an In-Service Training Program shall meet the minimum standards as defined in the Commission’s rules, regulations, and policies.

(b) In order to participate in the Educational Incentive Pay Program the Training Coordinator shall attend a training session on the Commission’s laws, rules, regulations, programs, policies, and procedures. Commission staff may offer one-onone training sessions at the Commission office and will hold at least one (1) regional training session in each Grand Division of the state per year.

(3) Appointment of Instructor (a) Instructors used for In-Service Training shall be approved by the Fire Chief or Training Coordinator and shall be qualified based on experience and training in the subject matter of the course to be taught, except for other authorized specialized courses.

(b) Instructors are required to be certified as Fire Instructor I, unless otherwise authorized by the Fire Chief or Training Coordinator.

(c) Instructors of Commission-approved in-service training classes shall receive one (1) hour credit for each hour taught provided that the teaching shall not consist of the use of electronic media exclusively and shall require the instructor to interact with the attendees of the class to obtain credit.

(d) Fire service personnel who serve as evaluators at commission-sponsored Practical or Live Burn Practical Examination shall receive four (4) hours Specialized Training Credit for each practical examination where the firefighter serves as an evaluator up to a maximum of two (2) practical examinations per calendar year for a maximum of eight (8) hours credit. In-house practical or live burn examinations do not qualify. One (1) In- Service Training Substitution form shall be submitted per evaluator for the year noting the date(s) the applicant served as an evaluator.

(4) Course Curriculum Requirements (a) Course curricula shall be based on a needs survey of the area served and courses required by the Commission. All curricula shall be substantially derived from the appropriate standards as set forth in the Commission’s rules, Chapter 0360-06-01, with the exception of any required subject material not adequately covered in these standards. All curricula shall be submitted for review by the Director or his/her designee, and be approved by the Commission. At least thirty (30) days prior to commencement of training, a copy of the curriculum noting whether the instructors are certified as Fire Instructor I shall be submitted to the Commission. If the instructors are not certified as Fire Instructor I, then the instructors’ qualifications, the dates and location of training, the dates of testing, and a copy of the testing instruments and answers, and other such data as required by the Commission shall be submitted to the Commission for approval. If a course is taught by a person not certified as Fire Instructor I, then the qualifications of the instructor in the subject matter taught shall be included with the course records for Commission audit purposes.

All Training Programs shall be submitted to the Commission office for approval no later than October 1 of the current calendar year for the training to be conducted in the following calendar year. Failure to provide all information by the required date may result in a rejection of educational incentive pay. All information shall be submitted in a form prescribed by the Commission. Peer reviews shall be performed and notification sent to departments by December 31.
Course dates submitted for a department’s In-Service Training Program are the dates on which the courses are to be taught. If a change in a date is necessary less than thirty (30) days from the scheduled date, a department is to make note of the change in their program and provide the reason for the change. If a change in class date is required thirty (30) or more days before the scheduled date, a written notification shall be sent to the Commission office with the new class date and the reason for change.
If a department is required to provide a range of dates and locations that a particular class will be taught when submitting its In-Service Training Program, the department shall provide to the Commission office the exact dates, times, and locations of the classes a minimum of seventy-two (72) hours prior to the classes being taught. This notice may be submitted in a form prescribed by the Commission; however if by mail, sufficient time should be allowed so that the notice has time to arrive in the Commission office a minimum of seventy-two (72) hours in advance of the new class dates. No credit shall be given for classes for which the Commission office has not received advance notice of specific dates.
A department may not use the substantially same In-Service Training Program in consecutive years.

(b) The Commission requires that the following minimum training be included in all training programs that are submitted for Commission approval:

At least four (4) hours each year on firefighter health and safety; and 2. At least once every three (3) years, four (4) hours of the following subjects:

(i) Post Traumatic/Critical Incident Stress Training;

(ii) Domestic violence training/Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (“SIDS”) training; and (iii) Hazardous Materials (c) Courses taught by a department that include routine functions (hose testing, preplanning, pumper testing, vehicle maintenance, station maintenance, etc.) may be considered training for purposes of the In-Service Training Program when approved by the Commission.

(d) Training provided to members of a department shall be appropriate to a firefighter’s rank and responsibility and the size and location of a firefighter’s department (e.g., an Arson Investigator or Codes Enforcement Officer who has no fire suppression duties should not complete a course in fire suppression activities).

(e) Computerized training courses and/or internet courses may be part of a department’s In-Service Training Program but shall meet all of the following conditions:

The department shall schedule the training in accordance with the requirements of the Commission.
The training provider shall provide information that outlines the course objectives, instructional method(s), and the time it takes to complete the course. This information shall be briefly outlined as part of the department’s In-Service Training Program.
The Training Coordinator or a Fire Department Instructor I shall be available (either in person or by telephone) during the normal business hours to answer any questions that an individual may have regarding the course.
No more than twenty (20) hours of credit will be given for computerized training.

Instructor-led training utilizing technology shall not be considered “computerized training.”

The course software shall prohibit the individual from skipping any of the courses and proceeding to the final examination.
The course software shall provide sufficient safeguards to ensure each individual claiming credit has completed his/her own work.
The training provider shall provide a Certificate of Completion for each individual who successfully completes the course. This Certificate shall be kept on file by the department for audit purposes.
The department shall have audit procedures in place to ensure that individuals are completing their own work.

(5) Attendance Records. Attendance records shall be maintained on each firefighter in a form prescribed by the Commission and shall be made available for inspection upon request by the Commission. The Training Coordinator and head of the department conducting in-service training shall certify to the local unit of government those firefighters who successfully completed the training, and certified records shall be maintained in each individual department for a period of thirty-six (36) months. Such records shall be included on a form prescribed by the Commission.

(6) Testing Instrument (a) Multiple testing instruments shall be designed to ensure that the same examination is not administered to two (2) consecutive training sessions using the same curriculum.

The examination shall be in the form of multiple-choice questions and a separate examination shall be administered to cover each unique course of instruction in the training program. Each examination shall contain the greater of ten (10) questions relating to a course of instruction or one (1) question relating to each hour of course instruction (e.g., sixteen (16) hazardous materials questions for a sixteen (16)-hour hazardous materials course). The examinations may be administered either independently or in a single cumulative examination at the conclusion of the training program. If a cumulative option is selected, the examination shall be divided by the

section of each unique course of instruction.

(b) Answer sheets shall follow a format which contains the following:

Name;
Employee Identification Number or Public Safety Identification (PSID) Number;
Employing department or volunteer department; and 4. Score.

(c) Testing instruments which combine the questions with the answer sheet shall not be accepted for grading. Answer sheets shall be maintained as a record for at least three (3) years and shall be submitted to the Commission office upon request by the Commission.

(d) Each examination covering a course of instruction shall be developed, administered, and scored by the Training Coordinator or Instructor. Each individual shall score at least seventy percent (70%) on each examination. Only one retest will be allowed for individuals failing to achieve seventy percent (70%). If administered as a single cumulative examination, each individual shall score at least seventy percent (70%) on each section of the examination. If the individual fails any section of the examination, the individual may retest one (1) time on each section.

(7) Approval of Specialized Schools/Courses (a) If a firefighter attends a specialized school appropriate to the firefighter’s rank (or position) and responsibility, the eligibility of the school shall be approved by the Commission office. Only schools of a fire service-related nature of at least two (2) hours in duration, except for approved online courses and curriculum for which one (1) hour is acceptable, will be considered for in-service credit toward meeting the training requirement. When submitting a course for Commission approval, the department shall indicate the NFPA Standard Number and Section that is applicable to the course being submitted. When applicable, the course will be submitted by March 1 for pre-approval by the Commission office. In cases where the curriculum and instructors are unknown and when admittance is by short notice, the curriculum and proof of successful completion will be submitted after the course is completed.

(b) If no examination is administered, the attending firefighter should submit to the firefighter’s Training Coordinator a detailed evaluation of the course and a correlation sheet showing how their coursework meets the appropriate NFPA Standard. If satisfied that the training was valid and beneficial, the Training Coordinator shall submit a statement to that effect, along with a copy of the report, to the Commission office. If this is not done, no credit shall be given.

(c) In-service credit requests will be reviewed and may be granted for an individual firefighter for the current training year only if the course is relevant to the firefighter’s duties and responsibilities.

(d) In some instances, the above type training session may be combined with the regularly scheduled and Commission-approved in-service training sessions. If this is done, the attending firefighter shall be tested on those hours attended in the departmental program. This will necessitate the local Training Coordinator being responsible for identifying the appropriate questions involved in the Commission-approved testing instrument.

(e) Fire service personnel attending the National Fire Academy and successfully completing courses taught on campus will be given credit.

(8) Approval of Fire Courses (Colleges and Universities)

(a) Any firefighter who successfully completes a fire-related course (or courses) at any accredited institution, institution of higher education, college, or university, may be considered for annual fulfillment of all or a portion of the required in-service training, not to include the eight (8) hours of hazardous material training as provided for in the provisions herein and approved by the Commission.

(b) Course completion toward credit for the annual in-service training requirements may be met by completing three (3) semester hours (45 classroom hours) or four (4) quarter hours (40 classroom hours) of instruction with a passing grade. The completion date of the course shall be within the calendar (training) year for which in-service training credit is sought.

(c) Applicants for in-service training credit under these provisions shall have the approval of the department head and shall submit the required Commission form for consideration to the Commission office. When submitting a course for Commission approval, the department shall indicate the NFPA Standard Number and Section that is applicable to the course being submitted.

(d) In some instances, the above type training hours may be combined with the regularly scheduled and Commission-approved in-service training sessions. If this is done, the attending firefighter shall be tested on those hours attended in the departmental program. This will necessitate the local Training Coordinator being responsible for identifying the appropriate questions involved in the Commission-approved testing instrument.

(e) Final approval by the Commission is contingent upon official notification from the institution in which the course was completed with a passing grade.

(9) Approval of Certification Programs (a) Firefighters completing the required number of hours of preparation training, certified by the training officer, and successfully passing the appropriate progression level examination in the Commission's certification program within the calendar year for which training is sought, shall be considered as having fulfilled the in-service requirement and therefore eligible for the educational incentive pay.

(b) Any firefighter qualifying for in-service training credit in this manner shall also meet the four (4) hours of firefighter health and safety training.

(10) Emergency Medical Training (a) Emergency Medical Training shall be considered meeting the requirements of inservice training so long as all other mandatory programs, as provided in these rules, are met.

(b) No more than sixteen (16) hours of credit shall be awarded for this training.

(11) Records Storage (a) All department records related to the Educational Incentive Pay Program shall be kept by the department in a secure location. Access to the records shall be limited to the fire chief, the chief of training, or their designee.

(b) Any department that maintains training records via computer or other electronic means shall submit a request to the Commission office. The department’s electronic records shall be subject to audit by the Commission. The department shall describe the electronic records system, identifying the security safeguards that are in place.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, 4-24-107, 4-24-111, and 4-24-202.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Amendment filed October 14, 1994; effective February 28, 1995. Amendments filed April 25, 2005; effective July 9, 2005. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Emergency rules filed September 2, 2021; effective through March 1, 2022. Emergency rules expired effective March 2, 2022, and the rules reverted to their previous statuses. Amendments filed August 29, 2022; effective November 27, 2022. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-07-01-.06 PAYMENT PROCEDURES

(1) The Commission shall review the request for payment and, if approved, remit the payment to the eligible fire departments the educational incentive pay awarded to firefighters who have completed the required training. At the selection of a department, the educational incentive pay shall be disbursed to the county or municipality where the fire department is located. The disbursement of these funds shall be subject to all of the following conditions:

(a) The Educational Incentive Pay Program shall be based on the availability of funds appropriated by the General Assembly.

(b) Payment will be made only upon request by the fire department and upon submission of the necessary documentation by the administrative officer of the eligible department.

By March 1 of the calendar year, submit the following information:

(i) Educational Incentive Pay Program Request;

(ii) In-Service Training Report;

(iii) Statement of the Fire Chief attesting to accuracy and completeness of the information;

(iv) Acknowledgement from County Mayor or Executive accepting payment; and (v) Training Substitution Forms for the previous year, if necessary.

Payment shall be made in a lump sum directly to the governmental entity handling the disbursement of funds for the eligible departments.

(c) No payment shall be made after the end of the fiscal year, June 30, unless such payment is authorized by the departments of Commerce and Insurance and Finance and Administration.

(d) It shall be the responsibility of the unit of government to disburse the funds to the individual firefighters after the deduction of the applicable taxes.

(e) The governmental entity receiving the funds shall be responsible for any increase in the employer’s contribution to social security or like programs necessitated by the increase in the employee’s annual base earnings.

(f) A firefighter shall not be eligible for the educational incentive pay from more than one (1) fire department.

(g) Effective August 31, 2018, information and training programs required by the Commission shall be received at the Commission office by October 1 of the preceding calendar year in which training is to be taught. Programs submitted after October 1 but before October 15 may be considered for approval from the Commission upon a waiver request submitted by the department. Failure to provide all information by the required date may result in a rejection of a request for educational incentive pay.

(h) Departments submitting a certified list of eligible firefighters shall also certify to the Commission that each qualifying individual is a member of the department whose name was on the department payroll as of December 31, as a volunteer firefighter of the department or as a volunteer firefighter of the department for training purposes as of December 31, of the calendar year in which training was received. If a qualifying individual is separated from the fire service for any of the following reasons, after becoming qualified, the firefighter will be considered as having met the December 31 requirements if the firefighter:

Becomes eligible and accepts a service retirement and begins drawing retirement benefits;
Becomes eligible and accepts a disability retirement; or 3. Dies while employed or serving as a volunteer.

(i) All requests for educational incentive pay shall be submitted to the Commission office no later than March 1 of each calendar year.

A department shall have fifteen (15) calendar days from the date it receives notice that a correction is required to its request for educational incentive pay to make the necessary correction and return the request to the Commission. All documentation must be received at the Commission office no later than May 31 for payment.
Departments may submit additions to their requests for educational incentive pay for up to sixty (60) days from the date educational incentive pay checks were mailed or deposited if not later than June 30. Payment of these additions is contingent upon availability of funds.

(j) If a volunteer firefighter completes the required training but is unable to find a local government willing to accept the firefighter’s payment, the volunteer firefighter may coordinate with the State Fire Marshal’s Office to arrange for payment to be issued directly to the volunteer firefighter as long as all requirements from the Department of Finance and Administration are satisfied.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, 4-24-107, and 4-24-202.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed January 22, 2020; effective April 21, 2020. Emergency rules filed September 2, 2021; effective through March 1, 2022. Emergency rules expired effective March 2, 2022, and the rules reverted to their previous statuses. Amendments filed August 29, 2022; effective November 27, 2022. Amendments filed April 2, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-07-01-.07 WAIVER

(1) The Commission shall only consider requests to waive the following rules and regulations:

(a) The waiting periods between certifications in rules 0360-02-02 and 0360-03-01;

(b) The deadline for submission of training programs for approval in rule 0360-07-01- .05(4); and (c) The deadline for submitting requests for educational incentive pay in rule 0360-07-01- .06(1)(i).

(2) When considering whether good cause has been shown to grant a waiver pursuant to this

rule, the Commission may consider, but is not limited to, the following:

(a) Hardships on departments through time, staffing, budget or facilities limitations;

(b) Unavailability of qualified instructors or test proctors due to financial, staffing or time constraints;

(c) Inclement weather, natural disasters, etc.; and (d) Illness, injury or disability of training officer that causes the department to miss the submission deadlines in rule 0360-07-01-.05(4) or 0360-07-01-.06(1)(i).

(3) A waiver shall not be granted in two (2) consecutive years unless otherwise authorized by the Commission.

(4) A request for a waiver shall be submitted in writing to the Commission.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101 and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Amendment filed October 5, 2010; effective March 31, 2011. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Amendments filed January 22, 2020; effective April 21, 2020. Emergency rules filed September 2, 2021; effective through March 1, 2022. Emergency rules expired effective March 2, 2022, and the rules reverted to their previous statuses. Amendments filed August 29, 2022; effective November 27, 2022.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-07-01-.08 AUDIT

(1) All accounts shall be subject to audit by the State Comptroller.

(2) All records pertaining to the educational incentive pay shall be available for inspection by a member of the Commission or its staff and shall be kept for sixty (60) months after the educational incentive pay was issued.

(3) An audit committee of the Commission, made up of the Director and a Commission Member or a Commission-approved designee, shall review the educational incentive pay records of every participating department at least once every sixty (60) months.

(a) The audit committee shall present its findings to the Commission for consideration. The audit committee shall review the records of the department to ensure compliance with Commission rules, including, but not limited to:

In-Service Training Verification Sheets are signed;
Attendance records were properly filled out as required by rule 0360-07-01- .05(5);
Examination records were properly graded and filled out as required by rule 0360-07-01-.05(6);
Records required by NFPA 1001, Chapter 4 are properly maintained; and 5. Electronic records, if kept, are properly maintained and secured.

(b) The audit committee shall make one (1) of the following recommendations to the Commission:

Audit was in compliance with Commission requirements;
No action required. This recommendation is for a minor infraction. Committee counseled the department on the corrective actions needed;
Informal Review. This recommendation is for minor infractions that the committee determines need to be reviewed to ensure corrective action was taken. This review would only encompass the areas that needed reviewing and shall be performed by the participants of the original audit;
Probation. This recommendation is for more significant infractions. The committee shall recommend that the department be audited again for a period ranging from twelve (12) months to thirty-six (36) months; or 5. Formal Hearing. The Committee has information that a major violation of the Commission’s rules or state statute may have occurred, and a hearing for formal disciplinary action under the Commission’s rules, regulations and policies is justified.

(c) When making its report to the Commission, the Committee may make any additional comments and recommendations which are appropriate, but the above general guidelines are to be used. The Commission or Commission’s designee shall send each audited department a copy of the completed audit report.

(4) Commission staff and Commission members may conduct unannounced visits to departments’ training classes. The visit shall not disrupt the training session; however, information may be solicited from the participants and/or instructor during a break or after the class. Documentation shall be completed about the visit and filed with that department’s In- Service Training Program for that year. If training is not being conducted as scheduled, that department will be invited to the next regularly scheduled Commission meeting to offer an explanation.

(5) All new fire departments entering into the incentive pay program shall be audited in the first (1st) year of their participation in the program.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, and 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Amendment filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Amendments filed July 27, 2018; effective October 25, 2018. Emergency rules filed September 2, 2021; effective through March 1, 2022. Emergency rules expired effective March 2, 2022, and the rules reverted to their previous statuses. Amendments filed August 29, 2022; effective November 27, 2022.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-07-01-.09 DISCIPLINARY MATTERS

(1) The Commission may revoke, modify, suspend or condition the educational incentive pay, to the fire department or governmental entity handling salary accounts for the otherwise eligible departments, if it finds, after appropriate notice and hearing, that:

(a) The requirements for the educational incentive pay had not been met as per the Commission’s Rules and Regulations; or (b) Any fraud, collusion, misrepresentation or substantial mistake was involved in the procurement of the educational incentive pay.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, 4-24-107, and 4-24-201.
Administrative History: Original rule filed October 14, 1994; effective February 28, 1995. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Emergency rules filed September 2, 2021; effective through March 1, 2022. Emergency rules expired effective March 2, 2022, and the rules reverted to their previous statuses. Amendments filed August 29, 2022; effective November 27, 2022.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-07-01-.10 PROSECUTION OF FALSE CLAIMS FOR EDUCATIONAL INCENTIVE PAY

(1) As an added measure to guard against the misuse of State funds, the Firefighting Commission and staff will vigorously seek criminal prosecution through the Attorney General’s Office against any individual or individuals it finds have engaged in fraudulent conduct or false representation in connection with the completion of training requirements in order to unjustly obtain educational incentive pay.

(2) The Commission will recognize the possibility of inadvertent mistakes involved in a Department’s record keeping, and after close scrutiny of such facts will make the proper recommendation to such Department involved and seek immediate reimbursement of such funds erroneously paid due to the Department’s oversight. If such reimbursement is not immediately forthcoming, the Firefighting Commission and Staff will commence legal action accordingly.

History

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-24-101, 4-24-106, 4-24-107, and 4-24-201.
Administrative History: Original rule filed October 14, 1994; effective February 28, 1995. Amendment filed December 14, 2009; effective March 14, 2010. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015. Emergency rules filed September 2, 2021; effective through March 1, 2022. Emergency rules expired effective March 2, 2022, and the rules reverted to their previous statuses. Amendments filed August 29, 2022; effective November 27, 2022.

Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0360-07-01-.11 THROUGH 0360-07-01-.18 RESERVED

History

Authority: T.C.A. § 4-24-107.
Administrative History: Original rule filed August 27, 1979; effective October 10, 1979. Repeal filed November 8, 1990; effective December 23, 1990. Repeal and new rule filed October 27, 2014; effective January 25, 2015.