Exposure Reduction in the Fire Service

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

This course is offered as either 4-hour or 8-hour programs of instruction dependent upon the amount of hands-on components desired. The course will educate personnel on ways to minimize exposure from products of combustion and other chemicals of concern on and around the fire ground. The course includes best practices on contamination control, PPE laundering, air monitoring for personnel and community exposure, and more.

Attendees will participate in lecture, discussion, case studies, software applications, and hands-on practical exercises (8-hour program only).

COURSE TOPICS:

  • Review of the Science
    • Chemical composition of smoke
    • Cancer linkages to combustion byproducts
    • Polyaromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs)
    • Emerging Threats (plastics, fire retardants, stain resistant materials, and others)
  • Operational Implications &Recommended Best Practices
    • Fires as hazardous materials incidents
    • Personal protective equipment
    • Contamination control
    • PPE and Equipment Cleaning
    • Air monitoring on the fire scene
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