IFF Issue 34

I N T E R N A T I O N A L

FIRE FIGHTERI N T E R N A T I O N A L

FIRE FIGHTER

An MDM PUBLICATIONIssue 34 – May 2012


Reporting Worldwide to Municipal, Industrial and Fire Training ProfessionalsReporting Worldwide to Municipal, Industrial and Fire Training Professionals

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INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER 3

Front cover picture sponsored by Task Force Tips

PublishersDavid Staddon & Mark Seton

Sales ManagerMark Bathard

Group EditorGraham Collins

Contributing EditorsGraham Collins, Jessica King, Jason Graber, Bob Grieve, Olaf Hempel, Ryan Alles, Steven Pike, Jan Suedmersen, Peter Kirk, Niall Ramsden

IFF is published quarterly by:MDM Publishing Ltd The Abbey Manor Business Centre,The Abbey, Preston Road, Yeovil, Somerset BA20 2ENTel: +44 (0) 1935 426 428Fax: +44 (0) 1935 426 926 Email: [email protected]: www.mdmpublishing.com

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DISCLAIMER:The views and opinions expressed inINTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER are notnecessarily those of MDM Publishing Ltd.The magazine and publishers are in noway responsible or legally liable for anyerrors or anomalies made within theeditorial by our authors. All articles areprotected by copyright and writtenpermission must be sought from thepublishers for reprinting or any form ofduplication of any of the magazinescontent. Any queries should be addressedin writing to the publishers.

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FIRE FIGHTER





May 2012 Issue 34

Follow International Fire Fighter on

59-63

6-13 News &Profiles

15-17 SpecialistRescue Training:Rope, Flood & River

19-21 AerialLaddering & Accessto Aircraft

23-25 FoamDelivery – Gettingthe ProportionsRight

26-28 TheBenefits of MobileFire ProtectionApplications

31-39 JumpingOut of PerfectlyGood Buildings…Works for Me!

40-42 UsingSimulators toEnhance HazmatTraining & Exercises

45-48 USAR: Be Prepared

50-51 HazMatTeam Tackles Road & Rail SpillageIncidents

53-56 LiquefiedGas Firefighting

59-63 The “m” inmSv Stands for Micro– Right?

64 Advertisers’Index

31-39

26-28

23-25

19-21

15-17

50-51

40-42

Contents

FROM THE EDITOR


Putting to one side for the moment wildlandand forest fires there is, arguably, a strongcorrelation between where populations are

at their greatest density and the incidence of fire.It is perhaps an over simplification, but firesgenerally occur where people live, work and play,with the frequency or impact increasing when this is accompanied by poverty, overcrowding and inadequate or non-existent fire safetyprecautions.

In 2011, global population passed the 7 billionmark and, if The Economist magazine’s pro-nouncement just three years ago is correct, as aresult of rapid growth in emerging countries overhalf now belong to what can loosely be describedas the middle class. Current assessments suggest

that between a further one and two billion peopleglobally aspire to join them. If correct, this meansthat the world’s middle class is set to representover 70 percent of the world’s population.

This movement toward seeming affluence maybe heart-warming in many respects. However itmasks a looming potential problem for thoseresponsible for our fire safety. For a start it leavessomething like two billion people living in or nearabject poverty (currently around 828 millionpeople live in urban slums worldwide) invariably inhousing and working conditions that fall far shortor the developed world’s standards of fire safety.Indeed, there are predictions that, as the worldbecome generally more affluent, the prognosis forthose left behind in the economic race is that theirplight will get progressively worse.

At the other end of the spectrum, as more andmore seek “the good life” the urban areas willbecome ever more crowded and congested. In

2008, for the first time in history, more than halfof the world’s population was living in towns andcities. By 2030 this number is expected to swell toalmost five billion; in other words, the majority ofthe middle class population will be compressedinto ever more crowded urban areas. Many,including the United Nations Population Fund(formerly the United Nations Fund for PopulationActivities or UNFPA) support this move for theeconomic, employment and general prosperityopportunities it presents.

It is not too speculative to suggest that in manyparts of the world, particularly in the developingnations, these urban areas may increasingly becharacterised by affluent city centres that aresurrounded by slums or shanty towns. Certainly

the way in which many of these urban centreshave developed in recent decade would seem tosupport this contention, particularly in parts ofSouth America, Africa and the Asia Pacific region.

Humanitarian considerations aside for themoment, the question the fire and rescue fraternity– and particularly those responsible for resourceplanning, training and equipment acquisition –have to address, is: how to be ready to meet thechallenge? Coming up with the answers may welltake them into relatively uncharted territory and,in some countries, the top echelons of fire andrescue authorities are going to have to ensure thattheir voice is heard sooner, more clearly, and moreforcefully. Equally important, that their views arerespected and acted upon more frequently. If not,the shape of things to come when it comes to fire-fighting, urban search and rescue or the aftermathof a natural disaster may well be a spectacle ofhorrific proportions. IFF

Graham Collins

Email: [email protected]

The Shape ofThings to ComeChanges in demographics around the world are going to have a major impacton the threats firefighters face, the conditions in which they operate, and thetasks we ask fire and rescue services to perform.

www.mdmpublishing.com

Informed predictions suggest that something like two billion people

will soon be living in or near abject poverty in urban slums worldwide,

invariably in housing and working conditions that fall far short of the

developed world’s standards of fire safety. The implications are

significant for those responsible for fire and rescue operations.

6 INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER

NEWS

Two PIERCE MANUFACTURING Arrow XTpumpers have gone into front-line dutywith the Rapid City Fire Department inRapid City, South Dakota, USA, increasingthe department’s Pierce fleet that nowincludes six front-line engines, one reserveengine, one aerial, and five wildland brushtrucks.

The Arrow XT pumpers are eachequipped with a Detroit Diesel 470hpengine, 3.9-metre long aluminium body,255mm raised roof cab, seating for fourfirefighters, and three EMS cabinets insidethe cab. The vehicles also feature frontalimpact and side roll protection systems,TAK-4 independent front suspension,Command Zone electronics, a 5,700 litres-a-minute pump, 2850-litre water tank,

Husky 12 foam system, 95-litre foam cell,and lowered cross-lays.

Pierce has also delivered a wildlandtactical water tender (TWT) to the GardenValley Fire Protection District in California’sEl Dorado County. Engineered to meetNational Wildfire Coordination Groupapproved specifications, the newapparatus will provide water support forwildland firefighting operations for theDistrict, as well as powerful firesuppression capabilities when called upon.

The new TWT is built on a Freightliner

chassis with a 360hp engine and seatingfor two firefighters. The apparatus featuresan 8000-litre water tank, a 180-degreequick dump rear discharge, and a 9500-litre portable folding water tank. Thevehicle is also outfitted with a remotecontrol front bumper turret, rear inlet, 335 metres of supply line, SCBA bottlestorage above the wheel wells, and a hose reel.

For more information, go towww.piercemfg.com

New PPE for UK BrigadesSouth Yorkshire Fire and RescueService has become the first fireservice in the UK to re-equip itsfirefighters with new PPEincorporating a PBI black outer-shell.BRISTOL UNIFORM’s Ergotech Actionstructural kit is being supplied as partof a fully managed service contractand has recently been deployed forits 900 firefighters located at 23 firestations across the county.

Bristol reports that this is one of anumber of recent PPE contracts thathave specified new coat and trousercombinations, as fire and rescueservices take advantage of the latesttechnical fabrics and wider colouroptions. The UK’s West Midlands FireService has taken delivery of its newnavy and red PPE using a NomexTitan outer-layer; part of an eight-year head-to-toe supply contract requiring1800 sets. Devon & Somerset fire and rescue service has ordered a further 1000sets of PPE incorporating a Nomex Titan outer-shell.

Industrial companies also feature among the firefighting organisations torecently purchase Ergotech Action fire coats and trousers. These include Derby-based Rolls Royce Submarine Nuclear Power Plant for its firefighters and specialNomex coveralls for the company’s Health Physics team.

For more information, go to www.bristoluniforms.com

Pumpers and Tenders

New Dive/RescueApparatusLouisville Fire Department/Jefferson County MetroGovernment in Kentucky, USA has ordered adive/rescue unit from SEAGRAVE FIRE APPARATUS.

The Department utilises a “task force” conceptwith an existing aerial ladder and pumper to respondwith the rescue truck to water-related emergencies.The new unit will operate out of Louisville FireDepartment’s headquarters and will replace a 1990light-duty vehicle that served as dive rescue responsevehicle. It will enable additional rescue equipment tobe carried and will better withstand the demands ofemergency response.

The single-axle apparatus incorporates a 20kwhydraulic generator and a command light tower foron-scene lighting. The 3.9-metre stainless steel split-tilt cab has seating for six, features a 400mm raisedroof and a cab-to-body walk-through. Therectangular-tube steel roll cage sub-structure of thecab provides a safe environment for firefighters toand from the scene. The walk-in/walk-aroundconfiguration allows the responders to put their gearon inside. Other features include ceiling lighting, abench seat, coat rack bar, interior heat and airconditioning, body side windows, a transversecompartment and a large rollout tray in the back ofthe unit where the dive packs will be mounted.

For more information, go to www.seagrave.com


NEWS

One highlight of the year from Weber Rescue Systems is the newbattery-operated combi tools in the E-Force series.

Lightweight, strong and flexible because of the changeablebattery, these modern combi tools provide maximum forcewithout being connected to a power unit.

The modern and powerful 28 V Li-Ion battery-technologyensures a longer-lasting operating time and enables flexibleoperation in regions that are difficult to reach.

The click-on/click-off-system provides a fast andeasy battery change, savingvaluable downtime. Thelightweight and compactconstruction of the toolsadditionally saves space andweight in the fire truck.

Various accessories likethe ram attachment, chainset, pulling device, batterycharger, battery pouch andbelt are also available.Furthermore, the batteriesare compatible with otherbatteryoperatedtoolsoffered by WEBER RESCUESystems such as the recipand metal-cutting circularsaws.

For more information go towww.weber-rescue.com.

New Battery Combi ToolsSPS 270 and 360 E-FORCE

On-Site Spill Protection

BundiQuick is the latest innovation from spill control specialist, LUBETECHthat can be folded and stored in a cab or trailer. It is being promoted asbeing a fast, flexible, quick-deployment solution to incidental spillmanagement, snapping from a `bundle` to a bund in seconds for all wetgoods, foodstuffs, fuels, oils and non-aggressive chemicals.

Depending on the model, the self-extending bladder system retains up to500 litres. Following safe capture of the liquid, it can be detached using aspecial bulkhead fitting allowing the contents to be decanted back into atank or secondary containment using the optional pump.

For more information, go to www.lubetech.co.uk

Ready for ActionCombi-tool

LUKAS is promoting its lightweight SC250E combi-toolas the ideal hydraulic tool for applications wherecasualties are hard to reach, such as in narrow tunnels ornatural disasters, or where every gram of weight countswhen transporting rescue equipment. The SC250E isready for action at the press of a button, and rescuescan be carried out with complete freedom of movement,without the need for power units and hoses. It enablescutting and spreading to be achieved without changingtools, spreading even the narrowest openings with theflat tip to free injured people.

Boasting short opening and closing times, the SC250Eis being promoted as being particularly suited for use onadvance-construction vehicles, motorcycles andhelicopters. Like the larger SC350E, the smaller, lighterSC250E is equipped with the proven star grip control forsimple and intuitive operation. It offers a cutting force ofup to 280 kN and a spreading force of up to 405 kN; aspreading distance of 318 mm, a pulling force up to 32kN, and a pulling distance of 330 mm.

For more information, go to www.lukas.com

The new range’s modular structure make it pos-sible to achieve different configurations anddrive variants that include a 6x6 on a three-

axle chassis, and an 8x8 on a four-axle chassis witha Twin Engine Power Pack (TEP) drive system, aswell a 6x6 model with single-motorisation basedon powerful Iveco engines and – as a specialoption – a Deutz engine.

The 8x8 Dragon chassis with a Twin EnginePower Pack drives the vehicle and the fire pumpand delivers better performance than a singleengine solution. The two electronically controlledIveco Cursor 13 engines provide a total power of1,080 hp in Euro 3 or 1,120 hp in a Euro 5 version.

All of the innovative concepts were specificallydeveloped for this innovative new range: drivetrain, extinguishing systems, controls and body-work design are all perfectly matched to thechassis. The modular design makes it possible tocreate different vehicle configurations to matchprecisely the customer’s needs.

The first customer for the Dragon was HongKong International Airport. Up to now five newDragons have been supplied to major airportsaround the world, and another 25 units will bedelivered this year.

Several other factors account for the immediatesuccess of the new range. A new driver cabprovides space for three, four or six crew mem-bers, with up to four equipped with breathingapparatus. The driver seat can be positioned on

the left, right or centre, and the cab is a well-designed workplace providing maximum comfortand functionality. Vehicle entry is ergonomicallyoptimised for firefighting operations, while large,lowered windows provide optimal visibility in alldirections. The crew cab features hinged doors orautomatic sliding doors. Large air grilles guaranteemaximum cooling efficiency, while the rear coverpanel allows access for maintenance and repairs.

ChassisThe newly-developed, rough terrain capabilityvehicle has a rear engine and rigid axle suspensionwith coil springs, single tyres with same trackwidth for faster forward progress and larger trackfor maximum stability. It also features hub reduc-tion axles with disc brakes for maximum groundclearance as well lower starting torque.

Electrical installations are all in 24V according tothe European Standard. As standard, the controlof the electronic apparatus is via an advancedCANBUS system.

Engines/Power PackThe Dragon ARFF is powered by Iveco Cursorengines that provide a fast-response accelerationtime from 0 to 80 km/h in less than 25 seconds forthe Dragon 8x8 chassis, and less than 23 secondsfor Dragon 6x6, and a top speed of up to 135 km/h.

The new-generation Cursor engines are moreresponsive and interact to a higher degree with


PROFILE

Iveco Magirus DraNew Standards for

The Iveco Magirus Dragon 2 range represents a completely new generation ofcustomised ARFF vehicles, with performances that exceeds current ICAO andNFPA requirements. In keeping with the Iveco Magirus philosophy, this latestsolution has been developed in-house and is produced using a single-sourceresponsibility, one-stop-shop approach.

the automatic gear-box. A variable geometryturbocharger assists in delivering high torqueacross a wide range of engine speeds.

The twin-engines concept provides more powerand pump-and-roll operations where you can doup to 70 km/h, whereas on a vehicle with oneengine the maximum speed is 20 km/h. The pump-and-roll operation with maximum water flow rateis available above an engine speed of 900 rpm. Themaximum speed of the Dragon 6x6 and 8x8 is 135km/h (depending on model and GVW).

Brake SystemThe brake system of the Dragon is fitted with thelatest EBS (Electronic Brake System) and disk brakeswith ABS. This delivers an extremely fast responsetime and short braking distance, low wear on brakeparts, perfect stability and comfort when braking.

The Dragon also features an engine brake as astandard, ensuring greater brake performances. Itacts automatically when the engine throttle isreleased.

GearboxThe gearbox is a fully automatic Allison powershifting transmission with hydraulic retarder.Engine-driven PTO facilities provide optimumauxiliary power and efficiency while operating onthe move or when stationary.

The transfer box is mounted separately from thegearbox, making for easier maintenance and repair.

Drive LineThe Kessler-Magirus drive line system with the“summation box” enables operations in drivingmode and pump-and-roll mode. In the drivingmode the power of both engines is transmitted tothe axles; in the pump-and-roll mode the systemwill couple the left engine to the fire pump, whilethe right engine will drive the vehicle indepen-dently, allowing a full pump and roll operation.

Due to the power divider, pump operation ispossible during driving forward or in reverse at any speed, with a maximum pump powerconsumption 272 hp

Modular Range & ExtinguishingTechnologyWater tank capacities are from 5,500 litres to19,000 litres, and foam tanks with differentcapacity options and several types of proportion-ing systems are available, as are a 500 kg drypowder and 120 kg CO2 option.

Different types of Iveco Magirus firefightingpumps with normal pressure, or combined pumpswith normal pressure and high pressure are also on offer with pump outputs spanning from 5,400 l/min up to 10,000 l/min. In addition to apowerful-throw roof monitor, there is a front-mounted monitor and quick-attack hose-reelsinside the bodywork for water, foam or powder.Alternatively, a telescopic piercing nozzle can bemounted instead of the monitor, as well an extend-able turret HRET.

All in OneNo other manufacturer of firefighting vehicles can offer chassis, superstructure and components– everything from just one source! From thechassis to the bodywork, everything is in-housedeveloped and so is optimally matched each other. Iveco Magirus is a partner that takes end-to-end responsibility of the entire vehicle, for as long as the vehicle is operating for thecustomer.

The company-owned testing facilities, allowingthorough testing of all performance parameters of the final product, including engine power,torque, brake force, brake balance and ABS opera-tion, as well as on- and off-road-behaviour such asclimbing ability, side slope testing. Iveco Magiruscan therefore be relied upon to develop vehiclesthat guarantee the highest levels of robustnessand reliability for all conditions of use.

At six locations in Europe, the Iveco Magirusgroup develops and manufactures a worldwideunique range of vehicles and appliances forfirefighting and civil protection. Iveco Magirus isconsidered internationally to be one of the largestmanufacturers and a world leader in technology inthe sector. IFF


IVECO MAGIRUS DRAGON 2 SERIES SETS NEW STANDARDS FOR ARFF VEHICLES PROFILE

gon 2 Series SetsARFF Vehicles

For further information, go towww.iveco-magirus.com

Items Dragon 6x6 Dragon 8x8

Wheel base 5050 mm 4050/5050 mm

Engine power 397 kW/540 hp up to 794 kW/1080 hp up to824 kW/1120 hp 824 kW/1120 hp

Maximum speed > 135 km/h > 135 km/h

Tank volume, water 10,000–12,500 litres 12,500–17,000 litres

Tank volume, foam 1,200–1,500 litres 1,500–2,000 litres

Dry powder 250 kg 250/500 kg

CO2 120 kg 120 kg

Pump output NP 10,000 l/min 10,000 l/min

Pump output HP 250 l/min at 40 bar 250 l/min at 40 bar


NEWS

Intelligent Fire SuitsMarine and fire safety equipmentcompany, VIKING LIFE-SAVINGEQUIPMENT has added technology to itsrange of fire suits that enables them todetect if a firefighter is in increaseddanger as things heat up. Every VIKINGsuit can now be ordered with the optionof adding the company’s thermal sensortechnology (TST), which providesfirefighters and those around them withclear warning signals as temperaturesincrease.

The company says that researchshows that heart attack due to heatstress is the leading cause of deathamong firefighters in action, and thatViking fire suits equipped with TSTtechnology are designed to reduce someof the factors that cause heat stress.Temperature sensors attached to twodisplays on the arm and shoulderindicate to firefighters and their teamscritical temperatures, both inside andoutside the coat.

Paradoxically, the company says thatits technology is partially an answer to aproblem that arises because today’s firesuits have become so good at protectingtheir wearer. The heat insulating textilesin modern fire suits, together with otherequipment, protect the skin so wellagainst radiant heat that it is becoming a

challenge for firefighters to detect critical temperatures in the critical minutes before they resultin injury. If heat increases rapidly, the TST technology equipped suits generate a warning signalmuch more quickly than if temperatures are slowly rising, recognising that when things areheating up fast, firefighters need to exit more rapidly.

The TST microelectronics are durable and can be washed in a washing machine once thesmall computer/battery pack has been removed from an inner pocket. Beyond replacing the AAbatteries, no further maintenance is required.

For more information, go to www.viking-life.com

BristolFashion

The ICP (Integrated Clothing Project)station wear range from BRISTOLUNIFORMS has been expanded toinclude optional colourcombinations. The original grey andred design has been supplementedwith a navy and red style toaccommodate a growing interest instation wear from existing ICP PPEusers who were looking to adopt adarker colour option.

The availability of the Navy Rangeis said to have prompted severalexisting PPE users to include stationwear in their contracts. Theseinclude the UK’s Defence Fire RiskManagement Organisation(DFRMO), which has taken deliveryof 1770 sets of the navy and redstation wear. Also in the UK,Gloucestershire Fire & RescueService has begun its roll-out andAvon Fire & rescue will deploy itsnew kit later this year, while NorfolkFire & Rescue Service will be takingdelivery in early 2013.

For more information, go towww.bristoluniforms.co.uk


NEWS

First Strike Goes toRedmond Airport

OSHKOSH AIRPORT PRODUCTS GROUP has deliverd the first production modelof its all-new Striker aircraft rescue and fire fighting (ARFF) vehicle to RobertsField, Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM) in Redmond, Oregon, USA.

The new generation Striker features what the company confidently describesas “advanced safety systems, delivering innovative fire suppression technology,unmatched chassis performance, and unsurpassed reliability and durability.” The6x6 axle configuration, with all wheel independent suspension and rear steeringsystem is said to provide a smooth ride and excellent off-road capabilities.

For more information, go to www.oshkoshcorporation.com

Breath EasyBREATHE SAFETY ispromoting its Pure-airrange of breathing airtrailers as beingsuitable for a variety ofapplications within thepetrochemical, nuclearand pharmaceuticalindustries where long-duration breathable airis required for workingin hazardousatmospheres.

The company’s airtrailer can be used inareas where breathingair compressors areunsuitable due to explosion risk or where environmental quality of the air islikely to be poor. Constructed to conform with EN139/14594 for airlinebreathing apparatus, high pressure cylinder banks provide a guaranteedbreathable air source that is reduced down and distributed to a control panelfor either four or eight users.

The trailer comes in several sizes according to the duration and the numberof user requirements. As standard, all units come configured for four users andare supplied with four breathing apparatus sets and hoses. All trailers have amain air supply and an emergency air supply; when the main air supply fails theemergency air automatically cuts in, maintaining air to the users, at the sametime as an audible alarm activates to ensure that users exit the hazard zone to asafe area. A control panel, which can be removed from the trailer and bepositioned remotely adjacent to the work zone to provide means of entrycontrol for the users.

For more information, go to www.breathesafety.com


NEWS

UK Brigade’s NewTurn-out GearThe West MidlandsFire Service in theUK has takendelivery of newfirefighting turnoutgear made fromHainsworth Titanfabric thatincorporatesDUPONT Nomex andKevlar fibres. TheService has rolledthe turnout gear outto over 2,000firefighters acrossthe county’s 39community firestations.

The turnout gearis a double-clothconstruction, withNomex on the faceto provide optimalthermal protection, abrasion resistance and colour fastness, andKevlar on the back to provide strength, to offer what DuPontdescribes as: “exceptional heat and flame protection, chemicalresistance, heat stress management capabilities and comfort”.The new turnout gear was manufactured by protective clothingspecialist, Bristol Uniforms.

For more information, go to www.dupont.com

New HorizontalExtrication ToolHolderThe latest addition to its Quic-Mount line of toolmounting solutions: the QM-ET-H2.horizontal extricationtool holder, has been unveiled by ZICO (ZiamaticCorporation). It comprises four separate components:two cast aluminium curved blocks and two steel angledbrackets that, Zico claims, can be mounted in a widearray of configurations to accommodate virtually anycutter, spreader or combination tool.

The QM-ET-H2 is suitable for storing extrication toolsin bumper “coffin” compartments and other spaceswhere height is restricted. Gravity keeps the heavy toolsitting firmly against the curved base blocks, secured inplace by the heavy-duty nylon retention strap. High-strength angled brackets keep the blades/arms on theother end from shifting. When needed, the tool is simplyunbuckled and lifted up off the shelf. When replacing anold tool, all that is necessary is to simply re-adjust theQM-ET-H2 components for the new arrival doing away with the need topurchase a customholder for each tool.

For more information,go towww.ziamatic.com

New MountingOptionRescue reel manufacturer,CMW PRODUCTS, hasintroduced a newmounting option for itscomplete line of reels thatcomes with breakers,buttons and rewind guideinstalled. It can bemounted onto a frontbumper or overhead

inside a compartment,placing the control buttonswithin easy access forrewind. The angled frontguide support allows forclearance between lid andhoses when used in a frontbumper application andinstallation time is claimed tobe reduced because the reelis pre-wired, and requires norelays or large wire foroperation.

For more information, go towww.cmwproducts.com


NEWS

KEY REASONS TO ATTEND

1. The leading conference in Australasia for all emergency services

2. Largest trade expo of its kind in the region

3. Inspiring national and international speakers

4. Over 90 sessions across 4 streams covering all hazards

5. Great networking opportunities

6. Information you can apply immediately

The conference will explore the following major themes:

(natural, built, marine)

Incident Management

policy and practice

AFAC 12Diverse country. Common ground.PERTH, AUSTRALIA 28 - 31 AUGUST 2012

The biggest emergency management conference in Australasia

Early bird registrations close 26 June 2012Full conference program and to register www.afac2012.org

Major Conference Sponsor

Self-retractingLanyardMSA’s new Workman SRLself-retracting lanyard isbeing promoted as offeringa lightweight, durablethermoplastic housing foryears of dependable service.The RFID-enabled productsimplifies product trackingand inspection, an integral,ergonomic carrying handle easestransport and installation, and a180kg working capacity increasesversatility.

Available in nine-metre lengthand a galvanised or stainless steellifeline, Workman SRL is certifiedto ANSI Z359.1-2007 and CSAZ259.2.2 and meets all OSHArequirements. It does not requireannual factory recertification andso lowers the cost of ownership. Aswivel snap-hook with a load indicator at thelifeline end greatly limits twisting of the cableand alerts users that the Workman SRL has beeninvolved in a fall.

For more information, go to www.msanet.com

Newcomer to ARFF

UNRUH FIRE has enter the ARFF (Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting ) market aftermany years of working with municipal and military fire departments by acquiringthe Renegade ARFF vehicle line from Crash Rescue Equipment Service.

More than 100 Renegade ARFF vehicles have been sold in the last 10 years.Typically, they are built on Ford F-550 chassis with aluminium or poly bodies andare available in a number of configurations. One configuration consists of a Tri-Max high-energy cold compressed air foam twin-agent system, generating four times the foam of conventional systems. This system ranges from 380 litresto 1900 litres and is combined with dry chemical and utilises the Hydro-Chemtechnology.

A second configuration is a pump-driven system coantaining 380 litres to 2800 litres of water and 225kg of dry chemical also using the Hydro-Chemtechnology. Larger Renegade trucks, from 1890 litres to 2800 litres, for example,are available on a larger chassis, such as the International DuraStar.

For more information, go to www.UnruhFire.com

SPECIAL RESCUE TRAINING


The Academy’s Access & Rescue School providesa range of specialist rescue courses to enabledelegates to work safely and effectively in

hazardous conditions. Courses include large animalrescue and emergency training for vets and fire andrescue services, water rescue, rope rescue, confinedspace and working at height.

Water & Rope RescueThe Training Academy is in partnership withRescue 3 (UK), an internationally recognised train-ing provider and offers a range of water and ropecourses in the South West of England. The trainingis held at the River Dart Country Park in Ashburton,Devon and the Cardiff International White WaterCentre in Wales.

Specialist Rescue Instructor Jon Bourn says: “Wehave delivered water and rope rescue training toother fire and rescue services and organisations

and have received excellent feedback on all of ourcourses”. The courses are compliant with therequirements of the UK’s Department of Environ-ment Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) as set out inthe Concept of Flood Operations Document forNational Flood Response.

Water and rope rescue courses include:

● Water Awareness – Chief Fire OfficersAssociation (CFOA)/ DEFRA Level 1:Designed to provide personnel who may beworking near water with sufficient knowledgeto be aware of the hazards created by this envi-ronment and develop an understanding ofwater rescue techniques.

● Lifejacket Competent User: For personnelwho would normally wear and operate aninflatable life jacket as part of their PersonalProtective Equipment (PPE).

SpecialistRescue Training:Rope, Flood &RiverThe Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service Training Academy is a leading UKfire and rescue training provider and delivers training to organisations, fire andrescue services, individuals and internal staff.Jessica King

Devon and SomersetFire & Rescue Service

● Swiftwater First Responder – CFOA/ DEFRALevel 2: As well as being prepared to workaround the water and undertake bank-basedand shallow water wading rescues, one of themain roles of a first responder is to support theteams of swiftwater rescue technicians at anincident. To enable this, a responder will havethe ability to self-rescue, skills in shallow waterworking, and basic rope work.

● Swiftwater Rescue Technician (SRT) –CFOA/ DEFRA Level 3: A four-day courseintended for those who will be required to carryout rescues in a swiftwater and flood environ-ment – such as, emergency services personnel,mountain rescue teams.

● Swiftwater Rescue Technician Advanced:This is a five-day course following on from SRTand is designed for personnel and teams deal-ing with advanced water or vertical access towater situations. Includes: search managementissues, high-angle rope solutions for water res-cue, and night operations.

● Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Level 2Powerboat: A two day course to give studentsan understanding of power boating. Thiscourse focuses on boat handling & safety andincludes elementary chart work. No previousexperience is required.

● Marine Radio Short range Certificate (SRC):This one day course is for anyone who ownsa fixed or hand-held marine VHF radio. The SRCis the minimum qualification required by law tocontrol the operation of VHF and VHF DigitalSelective Calling (DSC) equipment on anyBritish flagged vessel voluntarily fitted with aradio. This includes both fixed and hand heldequipment using International channels.

● Management of Water and Flood Incidents– DEFRA Level 5: Designed for non-waterspecialists who will be required to undertake amanagerial role at water and flood incidents.

● Rope Rescue Technician: This five-day courseprovides an understanding of the concepts andtechniques to enable small teams to undertaketechnical rope rescues.

● Rope Rescue Technician Advanced: Thiscourse builds upon the knowledge, skills andunderstanding covered on the techniciancourse.

Large Animal RescueThe Training Academy deliv-ers a Large Animal Rescue &Emergency Training for Vetscourse that is jointly accredit-ed by the British Equine Vet-erinary Association (BEVA)and Devon and Somerset Fireand Rescue Service. Thecourse incorporates a varietyof learning techniques,including hands on rescuescenarios working with a life-size horse manikin.

The key outcome of thetraining is to provide dele-gates with the confidence todeal with trapped or injuredlarge animals in a stressfulsituation. It also supplies vetswith an understanding ofhealth and safety at an emer-

gency incident, highlighting the potential risks forall those involved and how they can work togetherwith the fire and rescue service. Dr. Gianluigi Gio-vagnoli from the Italian Equestrian Federation flewin from Italy to attend the latest course. He says:“Brilliant instructors, skills and hospitality and anexcellent course”.

During the course guest speakers who areexperienced in veterinary medicine and emergencylarge animal rescues pass on their knowledge tothe vets. Guest speaker Anna Hammond fromMayes and Scrine Equine Veterinary Practice hasattended many emergency rescues. She says:“There is a huge amount of pressure put on vetsat these incidents and this course raises awarenessand reduces the amount of panic, in what can bea stressful and emotion driven situation.” Annagoes on to say: “As an experienced vet who hasattended a lot of these types of courses I amsurprised by the high standard and quality of thisone.”

Neil Giddings who runs the course adds:“Experience has shown that not all vets are neces-sarily confident in working in this type of environ-ment. Similarly our crews are not always familiarwith the capabilities of vets at an emergencyincident”. With this in mind the course coversareas such as risks and hazards, incident commandsystems (ICS), cordon control as well as the equip-ment and techniques that vets may see employedby the services specialist rescue teams. The nextcourse will run on 3rd and 4th July 2012 at theFire Service Headquarters in Exeter.

A four day Animal Rescue (AR2) course includingtwo days of animal handling and two days ofanimal rescue is available for fire and rescue services.Both courses will equip firefighters and vets withthe knowledge and skills required to work togethersafely and effectively at animal rescue incidents.Neil says: “By training both vets and the fire serviceswe can increase safety, resolve incidents effectively,minimise disruption and improve the prognosis forthe animals involved”.

Confined SpaceThe Training Academy offers a Confined SpaceAwareness course involving a mixture of theoreticalinstruction that is undertaken for legislationpurposes and includes gaining an understanding


SPECIAL RESCUE TRAINING

of hazards and risks, risk assessments, permits towork, method statements and safe systems ofwork required for confined space working.

This course also offers a good blend of practicaldemonstrations and exercises including equipmentfamiliarisation. It teaches delegates how to pre-useinspect any equipment that they may be requiredto use. Students are then shown how to enter andexit a confined space safely and will receive aportfolio that they will complete during exercises.This portfolio will finally finish off with a sum-mative assessment. Delegates will receive acertificate which is valid for three years, uponsuccessfully completing the one-day course.

As well as Confined Space Awareness, theAcademy offers the 6150-02 two-day City &Guilds Medium Risk Confined Space course. City &Guilds is the UK’s leading provider of vocationalqualifications and their suite of 6150 qualificationsare the water industry standard.

The medium risk course is designed to providedelegates with the knowledge, confidence andskills to enter, exit and work safely within medium-risk confined spaces and the delegates are taughthow to conduct risk assessments, fill out and usepermits to work and understand safe systems ofwork. This course is in line with the National Occu-pational Standards (NOS) for working in confinedspaces (NC1, NC2 and NC3). Lead Instructor MarkShaddick says: “We want to do all that we can toensure that we offer the highest quality trainingpossible. Not only do City & Guilds verify ourcourses externally but we have enlisted QAAssociates to internally verify us and make certainthat we maintain the standard that allows us to bea City & Guilds accredited training provider”.

The Access & Rescue School has recentlyreceived excellent feedback from the City & Guildsverifier to offer the full suite of their 6150 coursesincluding 6150-02 medium risk, 6150-03 high risk,as well as the 6150-04, 6150-05 and 6150-06Topman/ Non-Entrant Supervisor Awards. Marksays: “Our obtaining the full suite of coursesthrough City & Guilds gives us a fantastic opportu-nity to provide quality training to local businessesin the South West and beyond”. City & Guildsclarifies who the suite of courses are aimed at:“These qualifications are for anyone working inconfined spaces, whether it is the classification ofconfined spaces, entering and exiting, overseeingor emergency rescue and recovery”. Mark says:“We are also pleased to announce that newconfined space courses are being developed forthe renewable energy sector”.

Working at HeightThe Training Academy also offers working atheight courses and training programmes include:● Working at Height Awareness: This course is

designed for people engaged in working at lowrisk where access is simple and anchor pointsare easily identifiable. The training providesdelegates with a working knowledge of workrestraint and fall arrest techniques for basicworking at height activities.

● Working at Height PPE Tester: This course isintended to give delegates the knowledge, skilland understanding required to be a competenttester of personnel working at height equip-ment. People who are responsible for carryingout recorded inspections of personal working at

height equipment. ● Working at Height Operator: Provide dele-

gates a working knowledge of work restraintand fall arrest techniques for working at heightactivities. For people who are required to workin a position at height, where traversing,climbing while remaining permanentlyattached, utilising dedicated anchors.

● Working at Height Supervisor: Providesdelegates a working knowledge of the sitesupervisor’s responsibilities under the Healthand Safety at Work Act 1974 and its associatedregulations and codes of practice. Giving thedelegates their accountability as site supervisor/managers. For site supervisors, managers andstaff responsible for people working at height.

● Working at Height Emergency Rescue:Provides delegates with a working knowledgeof the site supervisor’s responsibilities under theHealth and Safety at Work Act 1974 and itsassociated regulations and codes of practice.Exposing delegates to their responsibilities assite supervisor / managers. For site supervisors,managers and staff responsible for peopleworking at height.

● Ladders, harness, lanyard & PPE tester: Thiscourse imparts the working knowledge theattendee requires to use a ladder, harness andlanyard safely for basic working at heightactivities. Additionally offering the knowledgeand understanding required to be a competenttester of personnel working at height equip-ment. For people engaged in working at lowrisk where access is simple and use of fall arrestequipment is required and who are responsiblefor carrying out recorded inspections of person-nel working at height equipment. Buildingcontractors, maintenance operatives, scaffold-ers, window cleaners and theatre technicians. Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service has

recently finished building a bespoke training towerto assist in the delivery of current and futureworking at height training programmes. Thistower will further improve the quality of trainingprovided and enable the development of new andtailored courses. IFF


SPECIALIST RESCUE TRAINING: ROPE, FLOOD & RIVER SPECIAL RESCUE TRAINING

For further information, go towww.dsfire.gov.uk/trainingacademy

Jessica King is TrainingAcademy Project SupportOfficer at Devon andSomerset Fire & RescueService

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AIRCRAFT EVACUATION & RESCUE


Early on in my career, I was taught that the bestplace to access an aircraft is via an over-wingexit or an exit near the wing, as this is pretty

much the centre point of the aircraft. Once inside,we have the ability to go forward or aft in theaircraft and hopefully we have hand-lines that arelong enough to access to either the front or theback (or up in the case of the Boeing 747 orAirbus 380).

There is, of course, a need to know how aircraftdoors work and operate. From the perspective ofgaining access to the aircraft, this knowledge baseis essential not just on the operation of the door,but also contributory factors such as whathappens if this door does not disarm from theoutside and the slide deploys. Have you everthought about how much ladder (with properclimbing angle) is needed to access the main deckdoor on a Boeing 747 and be able to reach acrossand grab/rotate the handle? It is nearly impossible.I have never been fond of being on a ladder to

begin with and am terrified to think of having tomake the transition from a ladder to the sill of aBoeing 747 or Airbus 380. Once the door isopened, the ladder can be flipped and placed inthe doorway to allow for access.

Taking it to the Next Step – LiterallyMany of us in ARFF departments both internallyand externally have had the debate of accessingthe aircraft via a ladder truck or tower versus anairstair. There is no right or wrong on the conceptas every department has its own reasons for usinga truck versus a stair. Many of the decisions arebased on money and staffing as the key factorsand many large airports have both while othershave neither and must have contingency plans onhow they will make access to the aircraft.

Access ConsiderationsIt is my belief that regardless of the airport thatyou serve or work at, you should be prepared to

Aerial Laddering& Access toAircraftAs highly trained and proficient aircraft rescue firefighters, hopefully we havethought through how we are going to access the aircraft during emergencysituations?Jason Graber

ARFF Working Group

handle the largest aircraft that comes into yourairport (and everything else that does not comeinto your airport). If you can work around thataircraft, everything else should be streamlined. Atthe airport I work at, Washington Dulles Inter-national Airport (an E index airport, ICAO 10) weare on the hook for pretty much every kind of air-craft. The aircraft that I typically use as an exampleof this for our guys is the Boeing 747 for its fuelload, passenger capacity, and double decks.

In mid- April of 2010, we took advantage of thevolcanic ash problem that plagued world travel fora week to train on wide-body aircraft and aerialladdering. British Airways provided us with afantastic training opportunity and allowed us touse one of its Boeing 747-400s to set up and trainpersonnel on laddering aircraft. This was aninvaluable training opportunity, one that we rarelyget, as aircraft for us are usually not on theground long enough for use to come and take thetime to do ladder company operations.

Depending the type of ladder truck you have(mid-mount or rear-mount) you are not going tohave a lot of room to set up, especially when weconsider the footprint of our ladder truck, anyground equipment that may already be on theground, and the potential for evacuating passen-gers from the aircraft or already lying on theground.

The ladder truck assigned to our airport is arear-mount (2010 Pierce Arrow XT 100’ LadderTower), therefore the truck is designed to be oper-ated either over the rear or front. The first lessonlearned for our personnel was to try and back thetower into place in front of the wing. The mainreason for this is because personnel could workover top of the ground personnel and have accessto the entire forward section of the aircraft andthe wing. Backing-in allows for the entire lengthof the ladder to be used without having to go overthe top of the truck. In addition, for smaller air-craft, the ladder may not allow you to lower thedesired height of the aircraft based on the truckand its safety devices or height of the cab. Mid-mount devices allow for more “forgiving posi-tioning” because of the position of the turntable.

By positioning between the two engines, theaerial ladder had a great deal of “scrub area” andwas able to access the main deck doors, upper deckdoor and the wing area. The idea is to be able toget as much of the aircraft as possible with one“swoop”. By positioning away in this fashion, it alsoallows for room for foam units to set up and


conduct their job specific tasks.Personnel working in thebasket must be equipped withfall protection whenever work-ing in the elevated position.

As the basket gets closerto the aircraft, the crew in thebasket should take over thecontrols – they have the bestview of where they are goingand where they want to goand can quickly make adjust-ment if they need to backaway. Once in position, thecontrols should be locked offso no inadvertent moves aremade.

If our objective is to accessan aircraft door, we must takeinto account some of thepotential problems, the largest being the slide.Depending on the aircraft and whether or not theslide disarms from the outside, the basket should bepositioned back away from the aircraft in the eventof a deployment on the opposite side of the hinge.The rapid deployment of the slide could be enoughto do damage to the basket and ladder and throwpersonnel out of the basket. It should not betrusted that any aircraft door that disarms from theoutside always disarms from the outside – if theaircraft had a hard landing then all bets are off!

If our objective is forcible entry or cutting intoan aircraft, the basket should be positioned over

top of the cut in area. If the objective isventilation, then the basket should be positionedat the appropriate doorway and task establishedfrom there.

In closing, it is not assumed that these guidelineswill work for every airport. We took advantage ofan opportunity to establish a knowledge base forour personnel. If your airport does not have aladder truck on it, you should be training mutualaid personnel in this skill. Bringing them onto theairport during an emergency and asking them tocomplete a critical task like laddering an aircraftcould disastrous. IFF


AERIAL LADDERING & ACCESS TO AIRCRAFT AIRCRAFT EVACUATION & RESCUE

For further information, go towww.arffwg.org

Jason Graber is Training andEducational Affairs Officerand Section 2 SectionalManager for the AircraftRescue Firefighting WorkingGroup at MetropolitanWashington AirportsAuthority

FOAM PROPORTIONING


While the failure of a foam firefighting sys-tem would be serious in any circum-stances, many foam systems are used to

protect high-hazard, high fuel load and potentiallyexplosive facilities, so the consequences of such afailure could be commercially, environmentally and,from a life-safety standpoint, nothing short of dis-astrous. Such critical applications exist in a numberof industries, in particular in the chemicals sector,in the petroleum, gas and oil industries, in aviation,marine, the utilities and the mass transit sectors.

To perform with maximum efficiency, a foamfirefighting system requires a number of pieces ofcarefully matched hardware to work together todeliver the desired combination of water andfoam. If any one piece of equipment fails to per-form, the effectiveness of the entire system will beseriously impaired.

Irrespective of the type of foam concentratebeing used, firefighting foam is made up of three

ingredients: water; the foam concentrate; and air.The proportioning of the foam takes place when thefoam concentrate is mixed with a flowing stream ofwater to form a foam solution. This is mixed with air– the term used is aspirated – to produce foam thatis a stable mass of tiny, air-filled bubbles with alower density than oil, petrol or water, allowing it toeasily flow over the surface of the fire’s fuel.

To achieve the correct proportions there arebasically three methods of proportioning. Theseare known as balanced pressure proportioning,bladder tank proportioning, and around the pumpor in-line inductors.

Balanced Pressure ProportioningOf the various methods of proportioning, balancedpressure proportioning is typically used for fixedfoam systems for inducing the foam concentrateinto the feed water line. The method is so called because the foam concentrate pressure is

Foam Delivery –Getting theProportionsRightProportioning equipment plays an indispensable role in foam firefighting, butwhich type of proportioner is right for which task, and what are their keycharacteristics?Bob Grieve

Delta Fire Australasia

“balanced” with the water pressure at the propor-tioner’s inlets. This enables the proper amount offoam concentrate to be reliably metered into thewater stream over a wide range of flow rates andpressures. These systems are commonly used toprotect petrochemical tank farms, oil deliveryjetties, chemical processing plants, offshore plat-forms, aircraft hangars, and loading racks, becausebalanced pressure proportioning equipment iscapable of continuously generating large volumesof foam.

There are essentially two types of balancedpressure proportioning equipment. One type isused in foam pump systems; the other is used inconjunction with bladder tanks – more on theselater. Both though provide accurate foam deliveryto firefighting monitors and foam deluge systems,which are used where rapid fire spread must beprevented.

Balanced pressure pump proportioning systems

are often known more simply as pump systemsand are used with atmospheric storage tanks thatare usually made of polyethylene or glass-fibre.

When the foam concentrate is pumped fromthe storage tank to the proportioner, an automaticpressure balancing valve regulates the foamconcentrate pressure to match the water pressure.Bladder tank systems use a pressure-rated tankthat contains a reinforced elastomeric bladder tostore the foam concentrate. Water pressure is usedto squeeze the bladder to deliver foam concen-trate to the proportioner at the same pressure. Anadvantage of the bladder tank system is that itrequires no external power source and very littlemaintenance, which may be an important consid-eration when deciding which system to adopt.

Typically, the latest low-pressure-drop balancedpressure proportioners for foam pump systems areavailable both in standard and wide-flow designsthat reflect the performance of proportionerscurrently available on the market. The wide-flowproportioner has an orifice, the area of whichchanges in relation to the flow, so ensuring thecorrect proportioning within a wide range offlows. Capacities typically span from as low as 100 litres a minute to a maximum of around40,000 litres a minute, with a maximum operatingpressure of 16 bar.

Significantly, they provide accurate proportion-ing of the foam concentrate irrespective of anyvariations in the flow or pressure, plus theyincorporate the facility to site-adjust the propor-tioning over the full performance range, up tothree percent. Standard balanced pressureproportioners are available with water inlet sizesspanning between 50mm diameter and 250mm,and wide-flow range proportioners from 100mmand 200mm diameter.

Robustness and the ability to withstand therigours of often harsh or corrosive workingenvironments is, obviously, a major concern. So


FOAM PROPORTIONING

much so that many are now manufactured fromhigh-grade corrosion-resistant bronze and stainlesssteel for reliable, maintenance-free operation.

Bladder Tank ProportionersBladder tank proportioners normally come in asimilar number of design and performance optionsand are the ideal solution when upgrading anexisting water sprinkler system to a foam/watersystem. Top-end pressure tanks are carbon steeland contain a butyl rubber bladder that containsthe foam concentration, available either as ahorizontal tank with capacities spanning from 400 litres to 25,000 litres, or as a vertical tank witha lower maximum capacity.

Bladder tank proportioners, which are alsoavailable in standard and wide-flow designs, offersimilar capacities to the balanced pressure propor-tioners for foam pump systems, but with a slightlylower top limit. Water inlet sizes for the standardmodels again typically span from 50mm diameterto 250mm, while the wide-flow range propor-tioners for bladder tanks are available in 100mm,150mm and 200mm diameter.

The proportioner is designed to fit betweenflanges. A distance equal to at least five times thewater connection pipe’s diameter is requiredbefore entering the proportioner, and the mini-mum distance for water pressure into the tankupstream of the proportioner is four times thepipe’s diameter, with a maximum of ten metres.

Around-the-Pump & In-line InductorsAlthough commonly referred to as inductors –used to induct the foam liquid concentrate intothe water stream – both around-the-pump and in-line inductors are, in fact, proportioning units.

As well as being used regularly in marineapplications, around-the-pump inductors are also

utilised on specialised foam trucks and fixedsystems where a dedicated water pump is avail-able. It is a foam concentrate proportioning unitthat is designed for connection to a by-passbetween the pressure and suction sides of the firewater pump that diverts a small proportion of thefeed water flow, with a negligible effect on thefire water line pressure.

The stationary in-line inductor injects foam intoa water stream. It can accommodate high backpressures, (up to 65 percent of the inlet pressure)which can increase the allowable distancebetween the foam injection point and the foamdelivery device. Each in-line inductor is factorycalibrated for a given fixed flow/pressure setting,with foam induction of up to six percent. A numberof variants are available in with connection sizesfor 25mm to 150mm and water capacitiesspanning from 100 litres a minute at 5 bar inletcapacity to 12,500 litres a minute at 16 bar. IFF


A FIRE SAFETY EDUCATION FOAM PROPORTIONING

For further information, go towww.deltafire.com.au

Bob Grieve is ManagingDirector of Delta FireAustralasia

Designed for first response and increasedusability, portable fire systems are set toprovide a highly effective method of fire-

fighting. In this article, I will outline the benefits ofportable fire extinguishers and the incorporationof water mist technology into mobile applications.But I will also consider the concerns surroundingtheir use, particularly from the perspective of safety,economic viability and the environment, andassess the benefits of mobile fire applicationsagainst each of these elements.

Industry ConcernsUser ProtectionBeing high-pressure systems, fixed firefightingequipment is often heavy and difficult to deploy,so it could be argued that it is the responsibility offire protection product developers and manu-facturers to ensure that access to portable fireextinguishing systems is available. But untilrecently, portable fire extinguishers have not pro-vided the same level of fire protection as fixed andsemi-fixed systems.

However, technological developments havedramatically improved the quality, versatility andeffectiveness of portable fire extinguishers. Interms of usability, portable fire extinguishers canprovide a simpler and less time-consuming

solution than fixed units, justifying the investment.Mobile equipment is now expected to be lighterand ergonomically designed to allow anyone ofany size and strength to use it effectively, so it isimportant that this is the case.

Product initiation should also be relatively simple;the days of users facing an immediate threat andhaving to read sets of instructions beforeattempting to extinguish a fire are not an option.If a system is easier to use and manoeuvre, thenresponse time for those in danger is reduced.

Environmental DesignIt is of paramount importance that fire protectionequipment uses available resources efficiently andsustainably, particularly as climate change andeconomic recession are high on the agendas ofinternational decision makers in both private andpublic sectors.

The fire protection industry is not immune tothese concerns, so it is vital that fire services andthose requiring effective fire extinguishing systemsare confident that maximum safety is beingachieved with manageable economic and environ-mental costs.

One example of where the firefighting industrymust integrate a sustainable approach centresround the issue of climate change. Due to the


PORTABLE FIREFIGHTING EXTINGUISHERS

The Benefits of MProtection Applica

Olaf Hempel

Advanced Firefighting

Portable fire extinguishers should be designed to reduce response time andincrease control over a fire hazard at the earliest possible stage. Ideally, users willbe fully trained firefighters responding promptly to every fire event with substantialsafety and extinguishing equipment. However, to minimise collateral damage andreduce the risk to human life, it is often the case that staff or civilians within theaffected area are the first people to fight a fire at the time of its outbreak.

global warming trend, areas across all fivecontinents are facing moderate to extreme risk ofdrought in the next year (see map below). Withthis in mind, manufacturers must focus on findinglow water consumption solutions to fire extin-guishing products, without compromising oneffectiveness.

One method of leveraging this initiative is toexploit the world’s huge supply of sea water torelieve strains on freshwater supply. However,desalination is costly and not a perfected tech-nology; huge amounts of waste, healthcare risksand environmental damage are potential sideeffects of this process.

Environmental and industrial damage is unfor-tunately an inevitable and often unpreventable bi-product of fire, so any system used to fight fireswould ideally cause minimal damage to buildings,infrastructure and the natural environment. This iswhere economical costs come into play. Portablefire extinguishers can be an ideal solution whendeployed in industrial buildings such as factories,warehouses and public locations, due to theirmobility and usability.

Some extinguishers, particularly those usingfoam agents and chemicals, can leave lastingcollateral damage in the aftermath of a fire that isdifficult to clean up. Of course, the first priority isalways to ensure that the fire extinguisher dealswith a fire as safely and effectively as possible, butconsequential damage causes added stress andcost to the parties involved.

Benefits of Portable FireExtinguishersWater Mist TechnologyThe technology used in mobile firefighting equip-ment has improved dramatically in the pastdecade. Advanced Firefighting Technology (AFT),for example, has developed technology that allowsmobile extinguishers to use water mist, makingthem more effective for rapid extinguishing, exten-sive heat absorption and higher lancing distances.

Using atomisation technology, water mist isdeveloped using the kinetic energy of compressedair and mixed with the liquid in specially designedmultiple nozzle systems. AFT’s mobile productsproduce ultra-fine water mist of 150 microns,meaning that water droplets cover a far greatersurface area than conventional water.

Water mist is a low water consumption solutionand uses two of the most readily available naturalresources: water and air. The significantly lowervolume of water that is required to effectively fighta fire also ensures greater mobile protection forboth first response units and endangered users atthe scene of fire outbreaks. AFT water mist prod-ucts are environmentally designed, allowing themto be used with saltwater and foam agents toproduce compressed air extinguishing agents. Thismeans that firefighters in coastal locations can

mobilise huge stocks of saltwater to fight fireeffectively.

Applying Water Mist TechnologyIn terms of how water mist technology workswhen applied to portable fire extinguishers (seediagram above), the extinguishing agent, be itwater or foam, is kept completely separately tothe propellant gas tank, which provides the com-pressed air needed for the creation of water mist.

The air is then led into the water tank wherethe water is effectively compressed before it istransported to the extinguishing gun. However,the propellant gas is also transported directly tothe gun via a separate tube. The compressed airmeets the water mist to form the ultra-finedroplets at the valve attaching the extinguishinggun to the two tubes. In addition, when the com-pressed air leaves its tank, it is filtered through apressure-reducing valve that reduces the pressureto 7.5 bars. This system allows the extinguisher tooperate with extremely low pressure, making iteasier to direct and control for inexperiencedusers.

The fact that the propellant air and water iskept separately, as well as the compression andfiltration process, means that such mobile systemsreduce water consumption levels and can also takeadvantage of a far greater yield of water thannon-water mist applications. Not only does thismean that the water tanks are easy to fill, but asthe water is combined with air, water consump-tion levels are lower. This means that the tanks donot need to be refilled as often as non-water mistsystems. In terms of the air propellant tank, thecompressed air is contained in a pre-filled canister,which simply has to be replaced when the gas hasrun out.

First ResponsePortable fire extinguishers using water mist areideal for use in a variety of fire-hazardouslocations. Not only are they light and easy tomobilise, new technological solutions offer higherlevels of versatility and usability.

These mobile systems use water mist for a dual-extinguishing effect, allowing for rapid coolingand fire blanketing, they also support dual modefirefighting and operate on low pressure, makingthem easier to direct and control. Dual mode firefighting provides the option of jet and spraymodes for either long distance or close range


THE BENEFITS PORTABLE FIREFIGHTING EXTINGUISHERS

obile Firetions

extinguishing. Jet mode allows the firefighter toachieve maximum lancing distances of up to 18metres, while spray mode supports a lancingdistance of up to seven metres.

While jet mode allows users to attack the firefrom further away, spray mode provides alterna-tive advantages. For example, smoke scrubbing –the effect of fine water mist droplets clearing theair – increases visibility and allows greater accuracy.Furthermore, radiant heat block, a fire coolingeffect from the fine water droplets, providesadditional fire protection to vulnerable users.

Industrial ProtectionMobile fire applications, particularly those thatutilise water mist technology, are ideal for use in anumber of industries and locations. As these fireextinguishers and CAFS support water as well asmost available foam agents, they are suitable forrapid extinguishing of Class A and Class B fires.Primarily, products such as portable backpacks andfire trolleys are useful for fire trucks and emer-gency vehicles that must respond quickly to allkinds of fires at a variety of locations.

It is essential that any fire hazard is dealt with asefficiently as possible, and light, portable systemsat the very least give first response units thechance to stop the fire spreading until heavy dutyservices arrive.

In terms of specific industries, portable fireextinguishers are ideal for offshore and marinelocations, as well as industrial buildings such aswarehouses and factories. These are locations ofhigh fire risk, where reliable, speedy response topotential fire outbreaks is essential. Areas of densecrowds, such as stadiums, events arenas and racetracks, must also prepare for fire hazards asimmediate response with effective equipment iscrucial considering the large numbers of people.

In addition, the extinguishing agent tank can befilled with any type of water, including salt water,making mobile water mist applications particularlyuseful for offshore and marine locations, as well asgeneral coastal industrial centres.

ProductsPortable water mist systems are suitable to combatClass A and Class B fires and use the sophisticatedextinguishing gun technology described above.The systems have a flow rate of 24 litres-a-minuteand operate at temperatures between 5°C and60°C. The extinguishing guns have a changeovertime of two seconds from jet to spray mode. Withjet mode, the maximum lancing distance of the

extinguishing gun is between 16metres and 18 metres, whereas inspray mode the maximum distanceis reduced to six metres to sevenmetres.

BackpacksBackpacks are mobile andergonomically designed low pres-sure extinguishing systems that usewater mist or CAFS for effective firecontrol. They are ideal for industry,roadside and offshore and marineemergencies, as well as for immedi-ate response in public locationssuch as warehouses and stadiums.

There are two types of AFT back-pack; one carries up to nine litres of extinguishingagent and has an empty weight of 13.4kg, whilethe other carries up to ten litres of extinguishingagent and has an empty weight of 12kg.

AFT TrolleyThe Trolley is a portable low-

pressure extinguishingsystem that cancarry multiple extin-guishing agents atone time and uses o p h i s t i c a t e dguns on a five-metre long hose.It is ideal forworkshop, ware-house and building

site fires that needto be handled quicklybut may require alarger supply ofwater than a stan-dard extinguisher or

backpack. The ATFtrolley carries up to

50 litres of extinguishing agent and has an emptyweight of 56kg. IFF


THE BENEFITSPORTABLE FIREFIGHTING EXTINGUISHERS

For further information, go towww.aftwatermist.com

Olaf Hempel is Director ofSales at AdvancedFirefighting Technology


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HIGH RISE EVACUATION


Dwight Eisenhower was quick to remind usthat “A plan is nothing! Planning iseverything.” Prevention is our responsibility

as first responders and we need to offer safesolutions to our community, after all we are in the“**** happens” business. So, some things tokeep in the back of your mind:● 99 percent of the world’s ladder trucks do not

reach above the 7th floor and will serve oneside of the building. Response times average 15minutes then five minutes to set up.

● Fire doubles approximately every minute.● The Lethal Dose (LD/50) for a fall to a human is

ten metres or about the 3rd floor.● 69 percent of high-rise fires originate on the

4th floor or below.● Each year an estimated 15,500 high-rise fires

cause 60 deaths and 930 injuries.

Incredible advances in building safety andrescue techniques have occurred in the decadefollowing 9/11/01 and it is not just chutes andladders anymore. This industry is now formallyreferred to as “supplemental evacuation.” It is notintended to replace any primary means of egressand stairs should continue to be the focus of allevacuation drills. This, however offers a secondway out should one be needed. Call it “Plan B”.

Quick HistoryIn 2003 a group of manufacturers of escapedevices came together to establish The SafeEvacuation Coalition. Each of them had differentstyles and types of devices but they all performedthe same task, namely: solving the dilemma ofgetting people out of multi-story structureswithout involving the stairs.

Jumping Out ofPerfectly GoodBuildings…Works for Me!Plan two ways out! We’ve preached it time and time again but have we actuallyhelped our community to plan for it?Ryan Alles

High Rise EscapeSystems

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This obviously was not an easy task and hadbeen revisited many times since the inception ofhigh-rise buildings. But in this day and age thesesystems at a minimum needed to be simple to usefor the untrained user, provide suitable protectionand accommodate potential evacuees withphysical impairments.

This group was not concerned about sharingtechnical information with their “competition” butinstead turned out to be an ideal “focus group”for exchanging ideas from the big picture to thesmallest technical detail about each other’sproducts. After all, there is no “one size fits all” inthis business and cooperation would be the bestarrangement for them as well as the potentialend-users. What was to become would changethe world.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)was under pressure following The NationalInstitute of Standards and Technology (NIST) finalreport on the World Trade Centre disaster to seekcurrent and future use of these devices. Specificallyworded, it read:

(NIST recommendation #20)

“…NIST recommends that the full range ofcurrent and next generation evacuationtechnologies should be evaluated for futureuse, including protected/hardened elevators,exterior escape devices, and stairwell descentdevices, which may allow all occupants anequal opportunity for evacuation and facilitateemergency response access.”

The Safe Evacuation Coalition stepped in toassist on multiple fronts. Volunteering theirindividual training and experience, two membersapplied and were appointed to the NFPA TechnicalCommittee on Means of Egress while othersworked to establish two independent committeeswith The American Society of Testing of Materials(ASTM International) to create manufacturing andtesting standards. These committees were res-ponsible for the 2006 standards: “StandardSpecification for Multi-Story Building ExternalEvacuation Controlled Descent Devices” and“Standard Specification for Multi-Story BuildingExternal Evacuation Platform Rescue Systems(PRS).” In short, two different manufacturingstandards for the current technologies that volun-teered to participate, CDDs and PRSs.

Chute-style systems were unfortunately unableto come together on common ground to cooperatein the fashion required by ASTM and no progresswas made. However, in my opinion several variousstyles of chutes offer other wonderful attributes tothe supplemental evacuation community, arecredible and safe to implement into scenarioswhere communities allow, and hopefully will beonly a matter of time until they are recognisedthrough the current governing bodies.

Simultaneously the NFPA was developingstandards for guidance on the installation, main-tenance and use of the equipment into the LifeSafety Code and Building Construction CodeAnnexes. These standards were first published inthe 2009 Life Safety Code and currently reside in


JUMPING OUT OF PERFECTLY GOOD BUILDINGS… WORKS FOR ME!HIGH RISE EVACUATION


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the 2012 Code as “Annex B”. Annexes are writtenin mandatory language but are not intended to bemandatory unless specifically adopted by the localAuthority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).

Controlled Descent Device Technology(CDDs)Controlled descent devices or CDDs have been inuse for decades, mostly in the fall protectionarenas serving construction sites, military installa-tions, maritime applications and oil refineries andplatforms abroad. CDDs have proven to be areliable source for descent from many structuresand were reportedly utilised during the 1983Beirut bombings that left 299 American andFrench servicemen dead. They are simple to use,require no power, have a long shelf life and can bedeployed in a hurry.

What is unique about CDDs is that they looklike, and work similar to a pulley, as one side goesdown, the other side comes up for the next user.This process is repeated until all occupants havebeen evacuated. Often times a harness or protec-tive “evacuation suit” is permanently attached toeither side of the cable. Many CDDs utilise aneight-millimetre polysteel cable covered by aneoprene or rubber-style protectant to protect itagainst moisture and, ultimately, rust. Outside thiscable is a kernmantle polyester sheath to protectthe cable against abrasion, much like a rope. It islight like a rope and 15metres weighs just over 2.3kilogrammes. It comes on a spool that rests nextto the CDD itself and feeds out while in use. SomeCDDs come in lengths up to 300 metres as theoperation of the device itself is not changed by thelength of cable.

Operation is pre-determined by the manufacturer


at speeds typically between one to two metres asecond (similar to an elevator). The user cannotadjust this speed as they are designed to beutilised by an untrained individual (for example:your Momma… sorry, couldn’t resist) Descentdevices can be adjusted during operation, just not“controlled descent devices”; that is the biggestdifference between the two types.

What CDDs do not do is give the user any senseof falling during descent; weight does affect thedescent speed, but only slightly. For example, onemanufacturer’s CCD with a rated capacity of 180kilogrammes conducted 75 test drops with a 180kilogramme weight that produced an averagespeed of one metre a second. If, for example, youare a 48 kilogramme female you will probablyaverage around 600 millimetres a second but youwill likely be on the ground before the first emer-gency vehicles arrive, so you can pretty-up for thearriving firemen (wink). Alternatively, if you arethat 180 kilogramme guy, catch your breath andhelp the firemen catch the hydrant on their wayin! We will allow you first dib’s on the televisionreporters when they arrive and need the full story.

Most CDDs are reusable and require little main-tenance. A maintenance program may call for amonthly visual inspection with some cable beingpulled back and forth through the unit annually.But make no mistake, it is probably moreimportant for the occupants to conduct thesemonthly visual inspections so that they can bereminded of where the equipment is, that it stilllooks appropriate and be reminded of how to useit should the emergency strike that night.

Some CDDs require being returned forrecertification every five years so the cable can beinspected for aging, inside the tamper-resistant


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housing can be inspected for rust and/or abuseand components replaced if necessary. Environ-mental conditions are the biggest enemy. Salt inthe air near multi-story condominium installationsjust eats away at the steel components, but that isokay; it is simple and inexpensive to replace in thebig picture. Typically recertification costs around$400 for any repair once shipping is factored in.

Some manufacturers pair the CDD withportable or fixed-mounted anchoring systems to

allow for rapid “pre-planned” or speedy“unplanned” attachment to the structure. Fixed-mounted brackets allow for rapid deployment inmultiple locations should supplemental evacuationbecome necessary. Rescuers can utilise portablesystems as well as assist with fixed-mountedsystems that are already present on the building.

Fire protective evacuation suits are also availableand suggested, even if just a minimal number.These suits are oversized to accommodate adults


HIGH RISE EVACUATION

with children in tow, their pets and valuables ifnecessary. They can also be used to assist anelderly, physically disabled or incapacitated victim.Evacuation suits are made of a fire-resistive,aluminised coating, with interior protection similarto that of Kevlar, and slide on easily like a pair ofjeans. They are designed to be put on quickly,reduce the fear of heights, protect the user(s) andprotect the evacuees should they need to descenddirectly past the fire floor on their way to safety.

This could be the perfect solution for thedisabled, mobility impaired or elderly occupant toself-evacuate or be assisted should they not be inthe physical health to descend dozens of flights ofstairs. Alternatively these are also ideal for home-owner associations, nursing homes, hospitals,government facilities, embassies, air traffic controltowers, first responders, construction sites, oilplatforms and industrial facilities. These prove tobe affordable to single families as plan to self-evacuate if necessary. Prices start about $1500 forthe CDD alone while complete systems start about$3500.

Platform Rescue Systems (PRS)Platform rescue systems move vertically alongguides or other means on the exterior of a build-ing and operate like an elevator. These systems areinstalled inconspicuously atop buildings and,during an emergency, automatically deploy andlower to the street level.

First responders board as they arrive and controlthe fire-protective cabins as appropriate for thegiven emergency. They can deliver up heavy hoseloads, fresh air tanks and much needed supplieswhile evacuating people on the way down. Thiscombination allows rescuers to arrive well restedto the upper floors safely from the outside of thestructure. Hose streams can be directed to protectthese cabins and being on the exterior allows forbetter guarantees of fresh air. These systems canevacuate dozens of people from multiple floorssimultaneously. Some can hold up to 30 peopleper cabin and use up to five cabins. These havebeen adapted for uses in hospitals to accom-modate over-sided beds from post-surgery or ICUpatents as well as additional cabins to housewheel-chair bound evacuees.

Installation of PRS systems requires structuralmounting to the roof and, typically, guides alongthe vertical face of the building. A motor andbackup motor are usually installed on the roof aswell. Prices start about $800,000 but keep in mindthis is a building-wide solution. Maintenancevaries by system and each manufacturer would behappy to share that information.

Are we Safer?Many buildings abroad are pre-planning forsupplemental evacuation. Not only do they trulyoffer “two ways out” but many building ownersbelieve that it is a great way to out-market otherproperties. Not to worry, retrofitting is not usuallya problem for most buildings. These new styles ofevacuation have been determined safe by expertsalong with the approval of the voting membershipabroad and are subject to continued, thoroughevaluation and guidance, which is being commu-nicated through the standards.

Supplemental evacuation provides rescuers withsolutions in a changing world of budget cuts. God

alone knows what we are faced with when wearrive on scene at 3am to a residential complexengulfed in flames. If we must dedicate ourlimited resources to rescue rather than extinguish-ment, nobody is left to put out the fire and weultimately become civilians again with some extratools.

Currently the NFPA Standards are available tobe adopted in a format where Authorities HavingJurisdiction can enforce that buildings includethese minimum safety requirements at zero cost tothem. But more importantly, these solutionsprovide peace of mind to families by allowingthem to plan a “second way out”. Thank you foryour service to your community whatever you maybe protecting right now, especially for those whowill never receive the credit they deserve due tothe inherent security risk. We know you are there,we understand the situation and here to help 24hours a day. IFF


JUMPING OUT OF PERFECTLY GOOD BUILDINGS… WORKS FOR ME! HIGH RISE EVACUATION

For further information, go towww.hres.com

Ryan Alles is President ofHigh Rise Escape Systems Inc

For a firefighter HazMat, or HazardousMaterials to give the term its full name,historically related to substances that might be

encountered as a by-product of an incidentinvolving a road vehicle or railway transport carry-ing a hazardous cargo that had unfortunatelyencountered an accident, or perhaps a chemicalrelease resulting from an industrial fire. Incidentsinvolving radioactivity would typically result from atransportation accident or an incident at a hospitalor industrial facility where the radioactive sourcewas legitimately in use. Recent events in Japanhave demonstrated the more extreme example ofa release form a nuclear power station.

What the majority of these incidents have incommon is that the fire department should(assuming the entity concerned has complied withall applicable laws) have either prior knowledge ofthe potential hazards and the threats they mightencounter or, at least upon arrival, be providedwith appropriate information or see a visibleindication that a particular hazard is present.

Unfortunately the prospect of the deliberaterelease of a hazardous material also presents apotential threat that the firefighter has to consider.Such a release may have different forms:● The use of chemical substances to take one’s

own life – at present first responders arriving atsuch unfortunate incidents are usuallypresented with HazMat warning signs placedby the victim(s). Not everyone undertaking suchan act may be quite so thoughtful of others.

● A release occurring indirectly as a result of anaggressive act, the possibility of that releaseperhaps not being an element of the originalplan of attack.

● An actual deliberately planned use of ahazardous material as a means of causingpanic, physical harm or even death.The possibility of a deliberate us of HazMat is

bad enough, but the fact that the range ofsubstances that might be used has been deemedto include radionuclides, biological and evenchemical substances that were traditionally


RDS 200 radiationsimulator with GMP11simulation probe

TRAINING SIMULATORS

Using Simulators tHazmat Training &

Steven Pike

Argon Electronics (UK)

Finding innovative ways to enhance HazMat training in a manner that relates totoday’s threats and the array of detection equipment available to firefighters is achallenge. Here we explore some possible options that could make a busyHazMat instructor’s life easier and HazMat training more realistic and engagingfor the students.

reserved for the battlefield hasresulted in firefighters having toprocure and become familiar witha wide range of ever moresophisticated detection tech-nology. The phrase “Jack of alltrades, master of none” is onethat has no place within thefirefighting profession, as all haveto be master of all trades, irre-spective of how infrequentlysome of those trades may becalled upon.

A further difficulty with chemi-cals, particularly the substancesgenerally referred to as CW(chemical warfare) agents is thatdue to the nature of the technol-ogy employed by many of thesedetectors, just because they pro-vide an indication that a CWagent may be present does notnecessary mean there is some-thing present that is an actualCW agent. This is because therecan be a tendency for suchdetectors to respond to non-CW substances andstill receive an indication (so called false positives).It is fair to say that if a GC/MS (Gas Chromato-graph/Mass Spectrometer) such as the Hapsite isused then you almost certainly achieve positiveidentification of the vapour present, howeverthese are very expensive relative to the typicalhand-held detectors available and therefore notwithin everyone detection portfolio.

Historically a useful side effect of such “falsepositive” responses has been used for training, inthat relatively safe simulants were deployed toprovide readings. However, as detector manu-facturers improve the selectivity of their products,the potential to use such simulants for training isgreatly reduced, not to mention the consequencesof tighter environmental and health and safetyregulations.

The trend to use multi technology detectiontechniques to further reduce false positives, bethat by separate instruments such as for example the ChemPro 100, LCD 3.2e/3.3, orRAID-M100, all of which are IMS (Ion MobilitySpectrometry) based detectors with anAP2C/AP4C with is a flame photometry baseddetector or the more recent availability of multi-mode detectors that house multiple technologieswithin a single product also creates challenges forexercise provision.

While traditionally training in how to react to aCW type release was primarily carried out in theopen because that was essentially where “thebattle” and hence the threat was most likely to be,the modern threat is more terrorist related, andtherefore the location of the incident is almostcertainly going to be any area frequented by the

public. Hence, there is an equal probability thatthis will be inside (for example, an airport,Government building, or underground railtransport system) as much as an outside location,such as a sports stadium or open-air musicconcert.

Indoor exercises have additional factors to betaken into consideration. An important element oftraining is for the responders to familiarise them-selves with the actual facility concerned, especiallyif that facility is “sensitive” and perhaps one towhich regular access for training is not possible.This can require that special clearance or permitsare required if simulants are to be used. The factthat there is the potential for the training area tobecome a crime scene also means that usingsimulants should be avoided.

One means to overcome these problems, andalso to alleviate the potential risk of damage tooperational detection equipment during training,is the use of look-alike training simulators. Thesecan now be produced to exactly replicate the look,feel and behaviour of the genuine detector.Simulation detectors can also offer additionaladvantages such as:● No need for regular maintenance of calibration.● No consumables.● The ability to monitor the manner in which they

are used, so providing the instructor andstudent with useful feedback.

● The integrity of actual detection equipment ismaintained.If the actual simulant source is electronic, rather

than substance based this also has benefits:● The exercise scenario can be quickly set up and

confirmed.


Camsin civil operativedecontamination

USING SIMULATORS TO ENHANCING HAZMAT TRAINING TRAINING SIMULATORS

o EnhanceExercises

● Environmental and health and safety concernsare eliminated.

● The scenario remains stable and undercomplete instructor control.That the exercise scenario remains under the

total control of the instructor is a very powerfulfeature. CW vapours vary in their volatilitydepending upon temperature. Air current and thewind also of course have an effect, however whensetting out a scenario the instructor is trying todevelop a set of circumstances that will result in astudent or team of students experiencing asequence of events typically some 30 to 40minutes after the scenario has been set up. It doesnot help much if the simulants have dispersed soas not to be detectable upon arrival of the surveyteam.

In a typical scenario you may want, for example,vapour to be detected at relatively low levels ofconcentration when a slightly open window or aclosed door is being checked with a detector.When that door is breached you might thenrequire that the reading increases noticeably.Venting is another process you might wish tosimulate whereby the concentration indicatedwithin a room decreases when windows areopened to permit the escape of vapour. All ofthese features can be readily controlled if theappropriate simulation technology is correctlyimplemented.

A means to evaluate the operation of thedetection equipment helps you to ensure thatoperators appreciate the importance of detectionequipment preparation. Many detectors have whatis referred to as a “confidence test” phase as partof their preparation. The test has to be carried outat the correct time after the instrument is turnedon, and for the correct duration, otherwise thetest can fail or the instrument can becomesaturated.

Some detection instruments also have consum-ables aside from batteries such as use replaceablesieve packs (LCD3.2e, LCD3.3, RAID-M) or sourcesfor hydrogen generation (AP2C, AP4C). If suchconsumables are used is simulated there are clearlyon-going cost savings to be made, however withappropriate simulator design it is also possible toensure that primary and spare simulated consum-ables are available, and to also provide a means of

activity monitoring and pro-vide feedback to ensure thestudent understands the cor-rect procedure relating tothe replacement of suchconsumables.

Reference was madeearlier to the fact that CWdetectors cannot always bedepended upon to provide a100 percent positive indica-tion as to the identity ofwhat maybe present, andthat multiple instruments ormulti technology instru-ments may be involved toovercome this deficiency.

With electronic simulationit is possible to representspecific substances and alsoknown false positives fordifferent instruments, there-

fore arranging for appropriate readings to beobtained on the training simulators during differ-ent stages of the exercise. At a basic level thismight be to produce an indication of the presenceof a nerve (G) agent on an AP2C or AP4Csimulator (the real instruments in fact detect thepresence of phosphorous within the G agent) andan indication of the nerve agent GB (Sarin) on anIMS based detector that has the ability, via analphanumeric display, to provide an indication ofthe specific substance present (rather than just theclass, i.e. nerve or blister). For a more sophisticatedexercise simulation of the GC/MS process can besimulated.

Once the survey team returns from the scenethey and any possible casualties that may returnwill then have to be processed and checked forcontamination. This also can be electronically sim-ulated, and once again because the instructor cancontrol the manner in which the simulatorresponds to the simulation source, it is possible tosimulate both full and partial decontamination.

While these examples relate specifically to CWagents, (which incidentally includes blood andchoking agents) there is no reason the same simu-lation principles cannot be applied to the moreusual multi -as and PID detectors used within firedepartments.

There are, of course, limits to what can beaccurately simulated when it comes to CW agents.However, simulation provides a means of ensuringthat the operator is familiar with the use of detec-tion equipment and also the procedures related toany readings that may be obtained during anincident. The advantages in being able to ensurethat operational detectors are ready and availableshould they ever be required rather than being atthe repair facility because they were damagedduring training is also a clear benefit, not tomention the cost savings in repairs and reductionin consumable use.

Simulation should certainly not be considered asa substitute for live agent training, but is anexcellent precursor so that you can ensure yourstudents get the very best out of live agenttraining, which after all should be about appreci-ating the specific characteristics and behaviour ofdifferent substances, not learning how to use thedetectors. IFF


Camsin CWA trainingsystem

USING SIMULATORS TO ENHANCING HAZMAT TRAININGTRAINING SIMULATORS

For further information, go towww.argonelectronics.com

Steven Pike is ManagingDirector at Argon Electronics(UK)


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THE NETHERLANDS, BELGIUM FRANCE GERMANY UNITED KINGDOM T: +31 (0)13 507 6800 T: +32 (0)14 699 820 T: +33 (0)3 44 26 00 51 T: +49 (0)231 2064 874 T: +44 (0)121 632 2700

USAR TECHNIQUES


@fire International Disaster Response Ger-many is a recognised non-profit organisa-tion, which specialises in the fields of

wildland firefighting and search and rescue of vic-tims after earthquakes. @fire´s Urban Search andRescue (USAR) team is available at all times andhas an expected time of arrival (ETA) of 36 hoursafter an event occurs to make an immediate starton the search and rescue activities.

To enable a standard to be established for thework, and to ensure effectiveness and task organi-sation of the USAR teams, the International Searchand Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) was foundedin 1991 under the umbrella of the United Nations.In line with INSARAG guidelines, @fire hasestablished a unit with the capacity defined as“medium”. This requires the @fire team not only tobe able to support itself for up to ten days in a civildisaster environment, but also to work in confinedspaces and penetrate concrete walls and ceilings inorder to rescue injured people. The team is trained

to also perform adequate medical treatment.To build an effective SAR Team – a team that

can make a difference between life and death forentrapped people – highly skilled and motivatedpersonnel are needed that have day-to-dayexperience in responding to emergencies of allkind, plus they need three things: training; tools;and team spirit.

TrainingThe @fire approach to USAR Training is based on: 1 Nearly all members are active professional or

volunteer firefighters in their communities withyears of experience. This includes training fortechnical rescue, SCBA and Hazmat. Some arealso trained as paramedics. Every @fire USARteam member can perform a multitude of roles,so the team size can be kept small.

2 On top of this, @fire provides specialised trainingfor international deployments. Every memberhas to go through 20 hours of basic training in

USAR: Be PreparedEvery year a number of earthquakes occur all over the world, causing massivedamages and loss of life. The dimensions of these catastrophes quickly exceedthe possibilities and capacities of many nations to generate quick and sufficienthelp. Especially when it comes to rescuing trapped victims, time is a key factor asthe chances of surviving decline rapidly as every hour passes.Jan Suedmersen

@fire InternationalDisaster ResponseGermany

international organisations, cultural awareness,personal hygiene, communications, safety andsecurity, and base-camp operations.

3 After this basic training, every future memberof the USAR team has to attend a 40-hourUSAR technician’s course that includes basicshoring, breaching and breaking, rope rescueand search operations.

4 After completing basic training, a variety ofcourses are on offer to obtain special qualifica-tions, such as: search specialist, shoringspecialist, USAR command, logistics specialist,heavy rigging, and swift-water rescue. In addi-tion, a number of members who are specialisedin their local fire departments, in such as divingand confined space operations, add thoseabilities to our portfolio of competences.Because all of our members are volunteers and

training has to be done in their free time, coursesare very concentrated. All theoretical lessons aregiven to the attendees as pre-course work that willbe tested at the beginning of the course. The courseitself is mostly hands-on training and exercises.

To provide a state-of-the-art training underfinancial limitations following rules are adhered to:● Training must be very demanding; the level of

difficulty should be higher than is likely to beexperienced in real situations.

● Training must be safe. It is very common world-wide to use abandoned or wrecked buildingsfor training purposes, but there are situationsyou just cannot simulate in a safe way in thesebuildings.

● Training should be reproducible to enable mis-takes to be worked on and give the attendantsthe chance to make it better next time.

● Training should enhance the cooperation withinthe team. Teamwork along with crew resourcemanagement is another essential key tosuccess, as the rescue work is carried out underenormous pressure, in a hostile environment,and with limited personnel.Two examples to illustrate our approach to

training:

Example: Structural Collapse Rescue SimulatorThe structural collapse rescue simulator was devel-oped by Paratech and @fire for demonstrationpurposes at Interschutz 2010 exhibition in Leipzig,

Germany. After the event itwas dismantled and rebuilt atthe @fire training centre.

The simulator is modularand its design can be changedeasily, to simulate a confinedspace, where the rescuer canbe confronted with the follow-ing obstacles:● Concrete wall.● Wooden wall.● Brick wall.● Armchair, washing machine

or television set.The rescuer has to cut,

breach or break through it ver-tically or horizontally – cuttingthrough a high-quality leatherarmchair is far more challeng-ing than one might think!Additionally, one part of thesimulator’s tunnel system has a

movable base, seated on rollers. This floor has tobe lifted and shored from the inside. This can bedone with wooden shoring or a shoring system,but the use of a shoring system is much faster andis much more flexible.

The side walls are made of Plexiglas, soinstructors can observe the whole operation fromclose-up and provide valuable feedback to thetrainee.

Example: Handling of Heavy LoadsInspired by the training done by FEMA-USARteams, several heavy concrete obstacles areincorporated that have to be manoeuvredthrough, under or above. The heaviest of theseobjects is called “Big Moe”, which weighs twotonnes.

To make the task more difficult, no power-driven devices are allowed, just manual tools suchas manual jacks. To enhance teamwork, different“race tracks” are created so two or more teamscan compete against the clock.

ToolsThe efficiency of Urban Search and Rescue opera-tions is mainly a question of having the right tools.But, as in every fire and rescue operation, the toolshave to follow the tactics. This is particulars so ininternationally-operating USAR team, where thework will mainlybe in voids in concrete buildings.The tools have to be:

MobileRemember. there will no big shiny fire truckfrom which you can jump and start to work.Every single tool has to be airlifted and broughtto the scene by any possible means includinghelicopters, military trucks, pick-up trucks, horsecarriage and – if everything fails – by carrying it.Invariably the team will up-load and unload the entire equipment four times, so everykilogramm counts.

EfficientThe biggest tools are not always the best tools.They should be able to be held and operated ina confined space for a lengthy period of time.They should not produce too much vibration ordust, while still quickly cutting, breaching or


USAR: BE PREPAREDUSAR TECHNIQUES

Fon: +49 9131 698-0 www.lukas.com

lifting. And how these tools are driven has to bethought about. A concrete chainsaw with asmall fuel-driven engine cannot be operated for a long period in an enclosed buildings.Electrical or hydraulic devices are mostly lighter,but need their own generator or pump outsidethe building.

ReliableTools have to function in circumstances that are adesigner’s nightmare. If they fail, the wholeoperation will fail. So, reliable tools are essentialand, if possible, back-up key tools should beavailable.There are many ways in which the tool cache

can be structured and I would suggest to followthe INSARAG guidelines. Within these guidelines,the INSARAG external classification checklist clear-ly describes what is expected from the team andits tools). More detailed, but only a suggestion isANNEX I: Suggested USAR Team Equipment List.

From the IEC checklist, the tools needed forrescue operations can be considered as one of the five elements of a USAR Team (the othersbeing management, logistics, search, and med-ical), in line with the essential capabilities of aUSAR Team:1 Cut, break and breach through concrete walls,

floors, columns and beams, structural steel,reinforcing bars, timber and building contentsusing “dirty” techniques (allowing debris to fallinto the void space) or “clean” techniques(preventing debris to fall into the void space).

Typical tools for dirty techniques are sledgehammers, hand-held electric and gas saws withdiamond blades, combi-hammers and breakers.@fire is using Hilti DCH 300 diamond cuttersand TE 706 and TE 1500 hammers performingthe “Chess” technique.

At the moment, we are evaluating a Lukasconcrete crusher to make rapid and “dirtyentry. Clean Techniques can be done withconcrete chain saws and/or diamond coringsystems

2 Rigging, lifting and moving of structuralconcrete columns and beams as part of a de-layering operation utilising pneumatic lifting equipment, hydraulic lifting equipment,winches, hand tools or a crane (and possiblyother heavy machinery).

For lifting, we are using hydraulic tools likethe Lukas SC 350 E, airbags with a manualpump – as normally you cannot airliftpressurised equipment – and Habegger thatcomes in different sizes.

3 Conduct stabilisation operations of structuralelements as follows:● Cribbing and wedges.● Window/door stabilisation.● Vertical stabilisation.● Diagonal stabilisation.● Horizontal stabilisation

Beside tools to build wooden shoring, @firehas a modular shoring system to build interiorrescue shoring.

4 Technical rope capability to construct and utilisea vertical raising and lowering system and toconstruct a system that allows for the move-ment of a load (including victims) from a highpoint laterally to a safe point below. Thisrequires a set of rope rescue equipment thatshould be very easy to use.

Another important tool consideration ispersonal equipment. Our personal items atrescue o perations comprise:

First-Line Gear (Stuff you should always havewith you):● Protective gear: suit, helmet, gloves, breathing

apparatus, masks, knee protectors and workboots.

● Folding knife or multi-tool.● Small flashlight.● Examination gloves.● Hi-energy snack.● Pen and notepad.● Official-looking identity card.● Personal items such as a copy of your ID,

money and medication.

Second Line Gear (Search & Recon Missions):Second Line gear is used if search and rescueteams are sent out for area reconnaissance, assess-ment and light search and rescue operations. Theyare very mobile, only have a light tool cache withthem, such as forcible entry tools, manualhydraulic combi tools and rescue saws. Theyshould have the capability to be operatedindependantly when away from the base camp for24 hours● Load-bearing vest with numerous pockets,

customised for your function within the team.● Hydration bladder. ● Pens, markers and grease pencil.● Weather-proof notepad.● Field operations guide.● Safety glasses and wipe rag.● Safety goggles.● Half-mask respirator.● Flashlight.● Multi-colour, high-intensity chemical light sticks.● Disposable ear plugs.● Small, personal first-aid kit.● Snack food, such as energy bars.● Food Rations for 24 hours.● Spare batteries for your head lamp, lights, GPS

unit, etc.● Compass.● Zip ties.● Mini roll of duct tape.● 15-metre-long parachute cord.● Travel-size roll of toilet paper.● Hand sanitiser.● Sunscreen.● Lip balm. APF


USAR: BE PREPAREDUSAR TECHNIQUES

For further information, go towww.at-fire.de andwww.lukas.de

Jan Suedmersen is a USARspecialist with @fireInternational DisasterResponse Germany

Early one evening the driver of an 18-wheeltractor trailer was suddenly cut-off by anothervehicle and forced into evasive manoeuvres,

swerving left and right in the midst of a con-struction zone on busy Interstate 80. After hittingthe brakes and stopping, he heard and felt hiscargo tumbling and falling.

This was no ordinary cargo of garden-varietyconsumer or durable goods; inside were nearlytwo dozen 55-gallon drums of hazardous materials– heavily concentrated peroxides, hydroxides,hypochlorites, nitric acid and sulphuric acid. Onchecking the back of the vehicle the driver discov-ered that the barrels had been knocked over. Theywere leaking. He immediately calls 911.

First on the scene was Mike Bradley, a Type-Onehazmat team coordinator and Fire Captain ofRoseville’s Engine Company One with his team.Immediately recognising the severity of theincident he requested the balance of the hazmattask force. This brought Truck 1 with Captain GregJames, Battalion Chief Kevin Morris, and severalCalifornia Highway Police officers.

Confronted by a strong odour, and upon

reviewing the driver’s Material Safety Data Sheetspaperwork – which indicated the chemicals’ highconcentrations – Kevin Cullison, the TechnicalReference Specialist contacted experts at thechemical company. His worst fears wereconfirmed. The chemists told him that it was avolatile cocktail of acids and bases that, if mixed,were prone to rapid chemical chain reactions. If it combusted there was the potential of a fast-moving firestorm of massive proportions.

“You mix one of the very concentrated baseswith of the very concentrated acids and there’s thethreat for a caustic, chlorine gas cloud,” saidBradley. The 313-bed Sutter Roseville MedicalCentre and two major hotels were located a merehalf-kilometre downwind; sitting ducks to apotentially toxic, life-threatening cloud.

Morris, Bradley and James led the pre-entrybriefing to outline strategy and tactics – investi-gate what spilled, identify with certainty thespilled material, and determine the appropriatenext steps. “Do we simply right the barrels? Arethe barrels damaged, and do they require over-packing in a larger barrel? Do we transfer the


HAZMAT CLEAN-UP

HazMat Team TackSpillage Incidents

Peter Kirk

Saint-GobainPerformance Plastics

The city of Roseville in California, just 30 kilometres north of the state capital,Sacramento, recently faced two major hazmat incidents separated by a mere 30 days.

For further information, go towww.saint-gobain.com

Peter Kirk is MarketManager at Saint-GobainPerformance Plastics

materials into a new, undamaged container? Youreally don’t know what the best course of action isuntil you are in the hot zone,” says Bradley.

The 11-member team decided to do a Level Aentry with the two first responders (and theirback-ups) protected by certified NFPA 1991(Standard on Vapour-Protective Ensembles forHazardous Materials Emergencies) hazmat suits,having breathing apparatus contained inside thelightweight, fully-encapsulated ONESuit Flashchemical protective hazmat suits. “Going into thetruck, righting those barrels within that toxic stew,we didn’t want any risk of exposure for our guys,”Bradley notes.

Interstate 80 is a transcontinental highway thatruns from downtown San Francisco, California toTeaneck, New Jersey in the New York CityMetropolitan Area – the second-longest InterstateHighway in the United States. The spillage incidentcaused two lanes to be shut down; emergencylights were brought in to the staging area, and thetwo first responders entered the truck. Theycrawled over and around the heavy, leakingbarrels, righted them one by one, and appliedabsorbents over the remaining chemicals on thebase of the vehicle floor.

Crisis contained and mission accomplished,private contractors moved in afterward to do cleanup and safely repack the materials for shipping totheir original, final destination. Describing theentire process as an eight and a half hour“adventure,” Bradley gives voice to what legionsof hazmat personnel know from training and first-hand experience: “Everything in hazmat is done ina very methodical fashion. No steps are skippedbecause the consequences of somebody cominginto contact with those chemicals are really awful.So you make the plan, you make a back-up plan,and then you formulate a back-up plan to theback-up plan.”

That level of precision and risk-abatement iscertainly the case in terms of equipment andprotective garment choices as well. Little didBradley know at the time that another incidentwas lurking just 30 days in the future.

The Union-Pacific’s Davis Yard in Roseville, thecountry’s largest rail switching facility west of theMississippi, is stretched out over a vast four squarekilometres. It was here that a rail car’s compro-mised pressure valve sent its contents – syrupy,sticky, caustic sulphuric acid at 98.2 percent

concentration, the highest concentration allowedby law – spewing into the air and over the sides ofthe shipping container.

“This is serious stuff – if it comes into contactwith you it will burn you and it is very difficult toremove,” says Bradley.

The crippled, spewing rail car (dubbed “apuker”) was tugged to a dedicated emergencyrepair line spur at Roseville. Bradley’s team andBattalion Chief Morris converged on the scene andwere briefed by Ben Salo, the railroad’s dedicatedhazmat expert.

One can only guess what first responders atthat incident were thinking. An incident in thesame train yard nearly 40 years ago is part of localfolklore. On April 28, 1973, 18 boxcars loadedwith bombs en route to the Concord NavalWeapons Station began detonating in the yardafter one of the cars caught fire. More than 6000 bombs detonated, injuring more than 350people. The explosions caused damage to 5500buildings.

In this latest incident, Salo’s diagnosis was thatthe sulphuric acid contents blew out the rail car’sfrangible disk valve system, similar in function to asafety relief valve but not able to be resealed.

A three-person, Level B entry team prepped toenter the railcar and contain the situation byreplacing the busted valve. They went with ONESuit Shield, a level B suit which shares its level-A cousins’ lightweight and user-comfort pro-file but without the internal breathing apparatus.

“Sulphuric acid at that high concentration doesnot have a very high vapour profile so we didn’tneed the Level A,” says Bradley.

The combination of experienced first respon-ders, the proper protective equipment, and theteam’s monthly training drills, quarterly practicedrills, and annual proficiency examinations paid offyet again for their safety and that of their neigh-bours. Faulty valve removed and new valveinstalled, and the crisis was successfully averted.

At the time, Bradley noted that his team hadused “…other Level B suits in the past that werecertified to NFPA standards…” but due to theflexibility and comfort of ONESuit Shield, he isreplacing his older Level B older suits with ONESuitShield. Given the recent unwelcome frequency ofhazmat incidents in this small city of 110,000people, one can hope that his orders have alreadybeen placed. IFF


HAZMAT TEAM TACKLES ROAD & RAIL SPILLAGE INCIDENTS HAZMAT CLEAN-UP

les Road & Rail

Roseville is no stranger to major hazmat incidents. 40 years ago

18 boxcars loaded with bombs began detonating in the yard

after one of the cars caught fire. More than 6000 bombs

detonated, injuring more than 350 people. The explosions

caused damage to 5500 buildings.

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LNG & LPG FIREFIGHTING


Most firefighters will be familiar with thespecial hazards associated with LiquefiedPetroleum Gas (LPG) in small cylinders,

such as those used for barbecues or patio heaters.In some countries such cylinders are very commonbecause they are the main source of fuel fordomestic cooking.

As LNG is introduced, and the applications ofboth LNG and LPG become more common andmore storage facilities are built, it is appropriate torefresh knowledge on response strategies and tac-tics to be used for incidents involving such fuels.This situation has been recognised by the gastransportation industry and consequently a newtraining video aimed at incident responders hasbeen developed by SIGTTO – the Society of GasTanker and Terminal Operators – in associationwith Videotel Marine International. I was a consul-tant on the panel of specialists that developed thisarticle, which draws heavily from the script of thevideo for its content. Full details of the video’s con-tent and how to purchase a copy can be obtainedfrom the website (www.videotel.com) and detailsof specialist training courses on LNG hazards canbe obtained from [email protected].

What is Liquefied Gas?Liquefied gas is carried all over the world for avariety of industrial and domestic uses, especiallyas fuel and chemical feedstock. The most common

liquefied gases used as fuels are:● Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), produced either

from natural gas or from refining crude oil. KeyLPGs are propane and butanes and mixtures ofthe two.

● Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), produced fromnatural gas. Its main constituent is methane. The gas is converted into liquid form by the

producers to make it more economically viable totransport in bulk, as its volume is many timessmaller than the vapour. For example, a singlecubic metre of LNG produces more than 600 cubicmetres of gas.

Fire Hazards from Liquefied GasesThe liquefied gases that are used as fuels are, ofcourse, stored in containers and tanks specificallydesigned for the purpose and transported in bulkunder controlled conditions. The probability ofrelease and ignition is relatively low providedproper handling procedures are maintained, but itmust always be recognised that uncontrolledaccidental release can build up a large vapourcloud that can find an ignition source, particularlyif the release is outside the confines of a storagefacility and there are no ignition source controls.

The two most common types of liquefied gasfire are:● Jet fires from pressurised liquid or vapour leaks,

for example at pump seals and pipe flanges.

Liquefied GasFirefightingOver recent years there has been a massive increase in the transport, storage anduse of liquefied gases for fuel in both industrial and domestic applications. Forexample, throughout Europe there have been new Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)terminals built to import gas to supplement other supplies.

Niall Ramsden

● Pool fires where the liquid has been releasedand ignites before it evaporates. This normallyoccurs via a “flash fire” where vapour from theliquid spill reaches an ignition source and theflame travels back to the liquid pool. Eventhough methane, the main constituent of LNG,is a gas at normal temperatures and atmos-pheric pressure, a liquid pool can result fromrelease of LNG because of the very cold storagetemp (~–162°C).Vapour cloud explosions can occur following

release of LPG and LNG under some circum-stances, especially where there is confinement andcontainment.

The type of incident associated with liquefiedgases that gives most concern to fire responders is aBLEVE – a boiling liquid expanding vapour explo-sion. A BLEVE can occur in a flammable liquefiedgas vessel when the heat of a fire surrounding itincreases the internal tank pressure, particularly atthe part of the vessel not cooled by the internalliquid. Eventually the vessel will fail – throwingfragments long distances. The tank contents arereleased to atmosphere, vapourising immediatelyand forming a rising fireball as the vapour is ignited.A BLEVE is normally associated with LPG but canoccur with other materials under some conditions.Fire responders have been killed when tanks haveBLEVE’d suddenly and they were too close.

Liquefied Gas Fire Hazard ManagementThe Flammable Characteristics of LiquefiedGasesOf course, it is not the liquid that ignites, but thevapours above it. The flash point of LNG and LPG

is relatively low as shown in the table above.Vapour will ignite only if the concentration in air

is within the ‘flammable range’. This is the rangebetween the minimum and maximum con-centrations of vapour (percent by volume) in airthat form a flammable mixture. The flammablerange is defined by the terms Lower FlammableLimit (LFL) and Upper Flammable Limit (UFL),although sometimes the terms Lower and UpperExplosive Limit (LEL and UEL) are used to mean thesame thing.

Below the LFL the mixture is said to be ‘toolean’ to burn, and above the UFL the mixture issaid to be ‘too rich’ to burn.

LNG And LPG Characteristics andHazardsLPG and LNG have key differences that affect howthey are handled and approached.


LNG & LPG FIREFIGHTING

Liquefied gas Flash point

Methane –175°C

Propane _105°C

Butane –60°C

Liquefied gas Flammable Limits

LNG ~5-14%

Propane ~2-10%

Butane ~2-8.5%

LNG LPG

Visibility LNG generally burns with a veryclean flame so it can be difficult tosee. However, a vapour cloud thathas been created from a liquid spillor pool is usually visible. This cloud ismostly water vapour condensed outof the atmosphere.

Heat A LNG fire gives off more radiantheat than LPG, so it becomes moredifficult to get close to the fire. It isthe extreme heat of a LNG fire thatcauses most damage to people andstructures.

Buoyancy At first, a LNG vapour will hug theground but then become buoyant asit warms up above -100°C.

Vapour control LNG boils off more quickly than LPGand has a higher vapour pressuremeaning that it is more difficult tocontrol vapour emission.

Burnback Flame spread through a LNG vapourcloud is slower than that of LPG.

Cryogenic hazards As LNG is stored at -162°C, itscryogenic properties can crack steelplates and cause severe frostbite. Itcan also reduce the effectiveness ofprotective clothing and boots.

When LPG escapes into the air itbecomes a gas which is heavier than air,forming a dense white cloud that willdisperse according to wind conditions.Above this visible cloud will usually bean invisible layer of gas.

A LPG fire generates twice as muchradiant heat as an equivalent gasoline(petrol) fire, creating a high risk of burnsto personnel and melting or weakeningof nearby structures. (Volume for volumegasoline produces more total heat thanLPG when burning but burns more slowly)

LPG is heavier than air, so it will flowdownhill.

If LPG comes into contact with a source ofignition, there may be an explosion withrapid burnback (‘flash fire’) to the LPG pool

Propane, stored at -40°C, can causesimilar problems to LNG when in itsrefrigerated state.

What to Do In Case of a Liquefied GasFireA useful way of thinking about how to respond toa liquefied gas fire is the mnemonic F-I-R-E. F – Find it.I – Identify and Inform.R – Respond.E – Extinguish

FindA fire is usually obvious to find, but detectingescaped gases before they ignite may be moredifficult. Both LPG and LNG in their natural formare odourless and colourless (even though spillsmay form a white cloud, normally due tocondensed water vapour in the air. However thevisible “vapour cloud” will not represent the trueextent of the flammable vapour cloud.

Identify & InformAn alarm should be raised immediately a fire orgas leak is detected.

To manage a fire or un-ignited gas leaksuccessfully, the source should be identified andthe situation assessed.

RespondOnce the fire has been reported the source of theleak should be shut down, preferably remotely.The correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE),including breathing apparatus if appropriate,should be donned and protective hoses run outand fire crews moved to their firefighting positions.

Extinguish Extinguish or control? It may be that extinguishingthe fire is not the best strategy as it could lead to alarge vapour cloud and an uncontrolled explosionor another fire. A better solution may be tocontain the burning and let the gas burn itself out.This will depend on:● How much gas or liquid is likely to escape.● Where it will disperse to.● Wind strength.● Whether it could disperse harmlessly.● Whether the fire will heat vulnerable machinery,

pipes, valves or storage that could createescalation.When taking the decision, do not forget poten-

tial ignition sources downwind.

Extinguishing FireMethods of Controlling LNG & LPG FiresIdeally, as already mentioned, the source of theleak should be shut down to cut off the fuelsupply of the fire. The fire will then burn itself outand any jet flame will gradually get shorter as thefuel pressure drops.

If an extinguishing strategy is chosen then themost effective agent is dry chemical although ofcourse this gives no protection against re-ignition.Foam is not usually very effective at extinguishing agas jet fire and is of limited use on LNG or LPG spillfires because the high vapour pressure is usuallysufficient to mean that vapours will continue tocome up through any foam blanket. For LNG andLPG fires, high or medium expansion foams may be used to reduce vapour emissions fromcontained spills. Foam can also be used to controlthe size of the fire and reduce the levels of radiantheat.

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LIQUEFIED GAS FIREFIGHTING

Carbon dioxide, inert gases such as nitrogen orother gaseous extinguishing agents can be used toextinguish gas fires but again they offer littleprotection against re-ignition unless the gas releaseis in a contained area, which means that the inert gas concentration remains after the agentdischarge.

Water is the most effective medium for coolingand for reducing damage to structures or equip-ment exposed to liquefied gas fires. Water canalso be used to disperse gas, but it does notnormally extinguish fires unless the gas can bedispersed by water spray at high volume andpressure. Applying water to an LNG pool fire willincrease the rate of evaporation and make itworse. It should be avoided at all costs. A watercurtain will divert or dilute the gas vapour, and willact as a barrier against radiant heat.

Responding to Different Types of Fireor LeakRelease of Liquefied GasesGas release may result in ‘flash fires’ that rapidlyburn back to the release source, if gas should leakand then migrate some distance and ignite. Even ifit lasts only a few seconds, that may be enough toinjure any personnel who have made the mistakeof entering a gas cloud.

If possible, try to deflect the vapour cloud away from potential ignition sources using waterspray curtains but never assume that they are 100 percent efficient – meaning that gas con-centrations should be continuously monitored onthe ”safe” side of the water-spray curtain. Bear in mind that although a vapour cloud may bevisible, the white area may not be the limit of thevapour and the flammable cloud may extendbeyond it.

Procedure:1 Make an initial risk assessment, and continue to

assess the situation as it unfolds. 2 Stop all work and evacuate non-essential

personnel.3 Set up water curtains or sprays to try to disperse

the cloud . Do not direct water streams into theliquid release as this will increase the rate of gasevolution.

4 Hose-handling teams should use water curtainsto protect the deployment teams.

5 Isolate the liquid release source, if it is possible,safe and practical to do so.

6 Identify potential ignition sources and extinguishheaters and naked lights. Isolate electricaldevices, but only if it is possible to do this beforegas migrates to the equipment.

7 Use portable gas monitoring equipment tomonitor the extent of the gas leak.

8 Where available, use foam to suppress the LNGvapour or LPG liquid release.

Caution!● Do not enter the liquid/gas hazard area under

any circumstances.● Expect gas ignition at any time, even if there

does not appear to be any ignition source.● Be aware that if a large gas cloud ignites in an

area that is full of equipment or plant anexplosion may occur.

● Although ignited gas is often safer than un-ignited gas, deliberately igniting gas can be

very hazardous, because you cannot be surehow far it has spread and where it has pooled.This is therefore not recommended.

Pool FiresAll efforts must be directed to limiting the hazardsfrom the fire as quickly as possible. Let the gasburn off if the fire is contained in an area whereno critical equipment is at risk, as long as thesource of the fuel can be isolated.

Procedure:1 Stop all work.2 Evacuate all non-essential personnel. 3 Make an initial risk assessment, and continue to

assess the situation as it unfolds. In particular,assess the impact of flames or radiant heatimpact on nearby LPG vessels, drums, tanks orgas-containing equipment as quickly as possible.

4 Alert personnel to the potential escalationhazard, and mobilise any external emergencyplan to evacuate people, etc.

5 Activate any fixed water spray or deluge systemto cool the affected and adjacent containmentvessels, drums, etc.

6 Use water jets, sprays, screens or curtains toprotect any radiant heat-exposed containmentvessels, drums or plant.

7 Use foam if LNG is involved (and possibly alsoLPG) to reduce the flame and fire size andradiant heat.

8 Use large-volume water stream on to any flame-impinged area of LPG vessels, drums or tanks (ifthis can be achieved in a safe time and will notexpose the fire responders to danger).

Jet FiresWhere the gas is released from a pressurised tankor line, the flash fire may burn back, leaving a gasjet fire at the leak source. The ideal response to ajet fire is to isolate it. If a jet fire could affect acontainment vessel, drum or related equipment,the aim should be to reduce the heat input to suchequipment and so prevent escalation.

Procedure:1 Make an initial risk assessment, and continue to

assess the situation as it unfolds. 2 As soon as possible, apply water in large

quantities to the vessels and other liquid or gas-containing equipment in the area, NOT tothe fire itself. Do not try to extinguish the firewith either dry powder or water.

3 Use water monitors, taking care when manoeu-vring them into position.

4 If the jet fire is relatively low pressure, it may bepossible to ‘bend’ it or to deflect it away fromcontainers or equipment.

Emergency TrainingWhile this article has briefly outlined some of thekey issues in liquefied gas incident responsenothing can replace specialised courses and “hotfire” training so any responders responsible formanagement of such incidents should attend suchevents that concentrate on the hazards of thesematerials. Although sometimes there is a lot of“scare mongering” about liquefied gases,especially LNG, in reality if the hazards and risksare known incidents can be handled safely andeffectively. IFF


LIQUEFIED GAS FIREFIGHTINGLNG & LPG FIREFIGHTING

For further information, go towww.resprotint.co.uk

Dr Niall Ramsden is aDirector of ResourceProtection International

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NUCLEAR EMERGENCY RESPONSERadiological surveymonitoring


On a lovely warm sunny day in the southernUSA the exercise coordinators prepare forthe day’s nuclear exercise. Argon had been

asked to assist with the provision of simulationequipment for the duration, as the exercisecontrollers were keen to see if they could enhancethe overall quality for the exercise and in particularimprove upon the use of the traditional injectwhereby the student is shown a piece of card orthe modern version, and electronic notepad torepresent pretend instrument readings.

The response team to be evaluated wasassembled and then briefed about a problem at afictitious nuclear power station that was 20 kilo-metres away and just happened to be upwind ofthe team’s present location. The team then had todecide what action was required and whatequipment was necessary in order to assess thepotential risk posed to the local population.

Once the potential risk had been determined,they were to brief the local authority and makerecommendations regarding the protection of

The “m” in mSvStands for Micro– Right?The Fukushima Nuclear reactor problems as a result of the Japanese earthquakeand subsequent tsunami demonstrated only too well that just when you thinkmatters cannot get worse – they most likely will, and even when 20 kilometresaway, that does not mean your locality will not be affected. Unsurprisingly theincident has resulted in an increase in interest in nuclear emergency responseexercises.Steven Pike

Argon Electronics (UK)

those who may, or may not be at risk. Soundsfairly straightforward, doesn’t it?

The exercise simulation requirement wasdiscussed, which was as follows: ● A single plume to reach the training area 40

minutes after initiation of the exercise withdeposition across the training area.

● The plume to comprise the followingradionuclide’s:● 137C.● 131I.● 90SR.

● The following simulation instruments wererequired:● Survey simulator. ● EPD-Mk2 Dosimeter simulator.● SAM 940 spectrometer simulator.● Alpha simulation for RADECO air sample

filter contamination simulation.The simulation control system comprised a lap-

top with the Argon Rad PlumeSIM software andlive field base station, which provided effective realtime exercise control throughout the exercise area.

A local map to assist in planning the simulatedexercise and also to aid tracking the students wasobtained using one of the many freely-availablemap resources to produce a .jpg image of the localterrain, which was then calibrated using a featureincluded within PlumeSIM.

Each survey team was to be equipped with asurvey meter, personal dosimeters, and a spec-trometer, with the remainder of the studentsresponsible for communications (hand-heldportable radios were provided for this purpose),logistics and the collation and management of thedata received from the survey team, as well as thegeneration of the hazard prediction plots.

The exercise commenced with the team beingbriefed about the problem at the local nuclearpower station. At this point they were advised thatthe extent of the problem at the power stationwas unknown, and that they would be providedwith further information as the situationdeveloped.

So, what do you think you would be doinghaving received such news?a Consider deploying a means of monitoring in

case the information provided was inaccurateor out of date (hence the plume was closerthan anticipated)?

b Chat about last night’s television sport?c Call your mum?

It is fair to say initially the equipment remainedwhere it was prior to the exercise brief. After alittle prompting, a decision was made to deploy aRadeco air sampling station. While the assembly ofthe sampler proved to be relatively easy, there wasmore than one view as to what airflow settingshould be used initially during the warm-upperiod, and also the importance of keeping theexhaust of the generator used to power theRadeco a reasonable distance from the air sampleintake. There was also some debate betweenstudents as to what was the ideal airflow rate tobe set after the initial warm up phase.

The exercise coordinator then announced that aradioactive release had been confirmed, and thatthe estimated time of arrival of the release to thecurrent location was 40 minutes. At this point thesimulated plume release was initiated, the systemconfigured to provide plume cover at the desiredtime over the exercise area. A preliminary trial runhad been carried out to ensure that the desiredreadings were obtained in the appropriate locations.

PlumeSIM has a very nice feature that enablesyou to fast forward or pause the exercise, thusenabling the exercise controller to manage thestaging of the exercise to suit the precise progressand status of the exercise participants. While weall know that, in the real world, nature takes itscourse in its own time, an exercise may be toevaluate, test, validate or educate or a mixture andas such sometimes it can be useful to “pause theexercise” to perhaps provide some gentleguidance to ensure the students get the very bestout of the day’s experience.

A portable player device is worn by each surveyteam member. The exercise control system auto-matically transfers the exercise to the player unit,which then broadcasts the simulated radionuclideactivity to the allocated simulators based upon thestudent’s geographic location. The students’movements throughout the exercise are monitoredin real time and recorded for after-action reviewlater back in the classroom.

The team decided to check the Radeco filter tosee if any reading could be obtained. A simulationsource had been installed on the inside of the filterpaper holder, and when the simulation Alphaprobe was offered up to the filter paper a readingnoticeable above background was obtained. Thereading was reported to the control cell togetherwith the flow rate and the duration of the sampleperiod, thus enabling the airborne activity level tobe determined.

A survey of the local area was requested. Asurvey team of four comprising two team memberseach carrying survey simulators, (both genericsurvey simulators) and one team member with aSAM940 spectrometer simulator, with the fourthteam member being responsible for radio commu-nications. Two of the team were also wearingsimulation dosimeters based upon the EPD-Mk2.

The areas in which the survey team wouldreceive simulated radiation readings and to what


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NAKAGYOU-KU,

level had been pre-determined by the exercisecontroller such that initial readings would beobtained typically 150 meters away from the com-mand station, the requirement being to simulatereadings as a result of uneven deposition. The sur-vey team spread with a distance of ten metersbetween each of the three instrument-carryingmembers, the communications operative followinga little behind the line.

As the survey team approached the “hot zone”readings started to climb above background leveland were called in. This is where, from an observerpoint of view, the exercise started to get interesting.Remember it was a very sunny day. The team mem-bers were suitably dressed in protective ensembleand wearing respirators, and this combined withthe bright sunlight made the displays rather moredifficult to read than when in the nice comfortableclassroom and not wearing a respirator.

The team member carrying the instrumentwould call out a reading. The communicationsoperative would then contact the control centreand repeat the reading, quickly followed by theoriginator calling out “no, that’s not what I said”and repeat the reading again. The respirators werenot fitted with voice modules and so inevitablyverbal communication was not straightforward.That was between two humans. When the mes-sage is then relayed across a hand portable radioby the communications operative also wearing arespirator the whole event turned into somethingreminiscent of a child’s game of Chinese whispers!

Another interesting observation was confusionover units of measurement. It so happened thatsome instruments we set to indicate in Rem, whileothers were set to indicate in Sv/hr. The simulationsurvey meter reading rose to 10mSv/hr and the callwent out “now reading 10mS/v”, each letter m, sand v being stated phonetically, (Mike, Sierra.Victor), which was duly acknowledged by thecommunications team member with the response“m – Mike stands for micro, right?”

The fact that some instruments were indicatingdifferent units of measurement also generatedsome interesting discussion regarding the relation-


Radeco Set-up

ship between Sv/hr, Rem etc. While it is fair to saythat there would most likely be consistency withinparticular groups as to the units of measurementused, serious incidents such as in Japan often resultin multinational involvement with the inevitablepreference for different units of measurementamong different well-meaning groups.

The message to take home here is clear – thoseexpected to use instruments of any type must bewell practiced in being able to read and correctlyinterpret the actual display. Furthermore, they needto absolutely understand the significance of anyreadings they observe, and ensure these readingsare communicated to any third-party accurately.

The display on the SAM 940 simulator (in fact asimulation probe attached to a real SAM940detector) started to flash red, advising of a danger-ous radiation level being present. Upon selecting“identify” the spectra was displayed together withthe radionuclide list, which was correctly read outand reported. While the survey team stooddiscussing the readings suddenly a beeping washeard – one of the dosimeters has exceeded thepre-set dose alarm.

Like most dosimeters, the EPD-Mk2 is rathersmall and therefore has a small display, and inparticular the unit of measurement indicator isvery small and care is required when reading thedisplay if wearing a respirator or level A suit(although in some instances such devices are worninside the level A suit). While the dosimeter alarmwas being reported to the control station a secondsimulation dosimeter also started to alarm.

The survey team completed its mission andreturned to base for a full debrief. The groupbeing evaluated then had to provide (and justify)their recommendations with regards to the evacu-ation or otherwise of the local population.

A number of visiting teams were to be putthrough the same exercise scenario, some ofwhich comprised members who had not workedtogether before. This in itself highlighted someinteresting problems, not least of which wasdiffering levels of proficiency within the team,whereas if a team had trained and workedtogether previously, there was a stronger sense oforganisation and competency.

SummaryThe simulation system enabled a sophisticatedscenario involving multiple radionuclides to beimplemented with ease and repeated as and whenrequired. Perhaps the greatest value was the abilityto generate relatively high instrument readingssuch that most operators had never had to experi-ence before. This in itself exposed the problemsthat can occur if these readings are not fullyunderstood or incorrectly communicated.

The importance of training regularly as a teamwas evident, however as was noted when teamswere made up from people who had not workedtogether before, there is great merit in replicatingthis situation in training, since you never knowwhen you might be asked at a major incident toeither join or command a team that until thatpoint you had never worked with previously.

The exercise coordinators found it refreshingnot to have to calculate the dose alarms andsimulated dosimeter readings for the inject cards,as this was taken care of automatically by thesimulation system. IFF


THE “M” IN MSV STANDS FOR MICRO – RIGHT?


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