4.1 This guide provides minimum guidelines for safe and efficient ambulance operation.

4.2 All ambulance operations and operators should follow this guide for the development of educational and training programs.

4.3 This guide is intended to promote safe and efficient ambulance operations and to reduce morbidity, mortality, and property loss associated with ambulance operations.

4.4 This guide is intended to assist those who are responsible for the development and implementation of policies and procedures for ambulance operations.

1.1 This guide covers minimum standards for the performance of emergency medical services (EMS) ambulance operators, including: operator qualifications, pre-run operation, and post-run aspects.

1.2 This guide shall promote the safe and efficient delivery of the ambulance, equipment, crew, passengers and patients, during all phases of the delivery of EMS involving the ambulance; at all times exercising the highest degree of care for the safety of the public. This guide may be applied to other EMS vehicles that do not necessarily provide patient transport.

1.3 This guide shall be used as the basis for training guides of the emergency medical services ambulance operator.

1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.