Podcast
Questions and Answers
What was the reason the gas detector failed to respond?
What was the reason the gas detector failed to respond?
What significant risk is associated with untested gas detectors?
What significant risk is associated with untested gas detectors?
Which service combines automated functions with automatic equipment replacements for gas detection?
Which service combines automated functions with automatic equipment replacements for gas detection?
What aspect of gas detection programs is enhanced by hosted software?
What aspect of gas detection programs is enhanced by hosted software?
Signup and view all the answers
What immediate action did the workers take when they detected gas odor strengthening?
What immediate action did the workers take when they detected gas odor strengthening?
Signup and view all the answers
What was a consequence of the gas detector's failure during the incident?
What was a consequence of the gas detector's failure during the incident?
Signup and view all the answers
What is a major advantage of using calibration stations and docking systems for gas detectors?
What is a major advantage of using calibration stations and docking systems for gas detectors?
Signup and view all the answers
What was the outcome of the gas detector failing to alarm during a gas leak?
What was the outcome of the gas detector failing to alarm during a gas leak?
Signup and view all the answers
What primarily influences the dynamics of fire spread when smoke is accumulating?
What primarily influences the dynamics of fire spread when smoke is accumulating?
Signup and view all the answers
In which scenario would smoke volume be high but flame presence be low?
In which scenario would smoke volume be high but flame presence be low?
Signup and view all the answers
What factor does NOT contribute to smoke velocity in a building?
What factor does NOT contribute to smoke velocity in a building?
Signup and view all the answers
How does smoke leave a building when it is pressurized by heat?
How does smoke leave a building when it is pressurized by heat?
Signup and view all the answers
What is an indicator of smoke pressure buildup in a building?
What is an indicator of smoke pressure buildup in a building?
Signup and view all the answers
What occurs if a compartment is filled with smoke and ventilation is not sufficient?
What occurs if a compartment is filled with smoke and ventilation is not sufficient?
Signup and view all the answers
In a tactical situation, what should a fire officer monitor to make effective decisions about a developing fire?
In a tactical situation, what should a fire officer monitor to make effective decisions about a developing fire?
Signup and view all the answers
What can indicate a turbulent smoke flow characteristic?
What can indicate a turbulent smoke flow characteristic?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the primary way to test if a gas detector sensor will respond to dangerous gases?
What is the primary way to test if a gas detector sensor will respond to dangerous gases?
Signup and view all the answers
What type of data is included in the iNet database regarding gas detectors?
What type of data is included in the iNet database regarding gas detectors?
Signup and view all the answers
What percentage of bump test failures is revealed by analyzing the data collected from gas detectors?
What percentage of bump test failures is revealed by analyzing the data collected from gas detectors?
Signup and view all the answers
What kind of operations were portable gas detectors primarily used for in the pre-confined-space era?
What kind of operations were portable gas detectors primarily used for in the pre-confined-space era?
Signup and view all the answers
How many bump test records does the iNet database contain?
How many bump test records does the iNet database contain?
Signup and view all the answers
What was a characteristic feature of portable gas detectors before the advancement of digital technology?
What was a characteristic feature of portable gas detectors before the advancement of digital technology?
Signup and view all the answers
How many gas detectors are referenced as being used in the data logging for the iNet database?
How many gas detectors are referenced as being used in the data logging for the iNet database?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the significance of a failure rate of 0.3% in the context of daily bump tests?
What is the significance of a failure rate of 0.3% in the context of daily bump tests?
Signup and view all the answers
What is an indicator that a flashover is likely to occur?
What is an indicator that a flashover is likely to occur?
Signup and view all the answers
Which factor primarily affects smoke velocity observed outside a building?
Which factor primarily affects smoke velocity observed outside a building?
Signup and view all the answers
What does the density of smoke indicate regarding its composition?
What does the density of smoke indicate regarding its composition?
Signup and view all the answers
Why is turbulent smoke considered a warning sign for flashover?
Why is turbulent smoke considered a warning sign for flashover?
Signup and view all the answers
What strategy should be employed to determine the location of a fire using smoke velocity?
What strategy should be employed to determine the location of a fire using smoke velocity?
Signup and view all the answers
Which statement correctly describes the implications of thick smoke?
Which statement correctly describes the implications of thick smoke?
Signup and view all the answers
What characteristic of smoke helps firefighters determine fire behavior?
What characteristic of smoke helps firefighters determine fire behavior?
Signup and view all the answers
What is a common misconception about laminar smoke flow?
What is a common misconception about laminar smoke flow?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the primary hazard associated with high-pressure CNG systems?
What is the primary hazard associated with high-pressure CNG systems?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the typical flammable range of CNG?
What is the typical flammable range of CNG?
Signup and view all the answers
Where is the fuel control module typically located in a CNG vehicle?
Where is the fuel control module typically located in a CNG vehicle?
Signup and view all the answers
What is one of the potential signs of a gas leak in a CNG system?
What is one of the potential signs of a gas leak in a CNG system?
Signup and view all the answers
What safety measure should NOT be taken during a CNG vehicle emergency shut-down?
What safety measure should NOT be taken during a CNG vehicle emergency shut-down?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the function of Pressure Relief Devices (PRDs) in a CNG system?
What is the function of Pressure Relief Devices (PRDs) in a CNG system?
Signup and view all the answers
What should be done if a gas leak is observed in a CNG vehicle?
What should be done if a gas leak is observed in a CNG vehicle?
Signup and view all the answers
What type of material are high-pressure fuel lines in CNG systems typically made from?
What type of material are high-pressure fuel lines in CNG systems typically made from?
Signup and view all the answers
What should be the initial action taken upon detecting smoke from an energy storage system?
What should be the initial action taken upon detecting smoke from an energy storage system?
Signup and view all the answers
Which firefighting agent is preferred for responding to lithium-ion battery fires?
Which firefighting agent is preferred for responding to lithium-ion battery fires?
Signup and view all the answers
In a situation where smoke is visible but no fire has developed, what stance should responders take?
In a situation where smoke is visible but no fire has developed, what stance should responders take?
Signup and view all the answers
What safety distance should be maintained from a burning energy storage system during firefighting efforts?
What safety distance should be maintained from a burning energy storage system during firefighting efforts?
Signup and view all the answers
What is a potential hazard when batteries go into thermal runaway?
What is a potential hazard when batteries go into thermal runaway?
Signup and view all the answers
Why is it important to have pre-incident plans in place for energy storage systems?
Why is it important to have pre-incident plans in place for energy storage systems?
Signup and view all the answers
What specific measure should be taken regarding ventilation when smoke is detected from an energy storage system?
What specific measure should be taken regarding ventilation when smoke is detected from an energy storage system?
Signup and view all the answers
What action is NOT advisable when encountering smoke from an energy storage system?
What action is NOT advisable when encountering smoke from an energy storage system?
Signup and view all the answers
What are the first steps recommended for responding to a compromised lithium-ion battery in a residential setting?
What are the first steps recommended for responding to a compromised lithium-ion battery in a residential setting?
Signup and view all the answers
Which of the following is NOT a possible affiliation for Energy Storage Systems (ESS)?
Which of the following is NOT a possible affiliation for Energy Storage Systems (ESS)?
Signup and view all the answers
Which organization was David Dodson a recipient of an award from?
Which organization was David Dodson a recipient of an award from?
Signup and view all the answers
In the context of ESS systems, why is contacting manufacturer technical support recommended?
In the context of ESS systems, why is contacting manufacturer technical support recommended?
Signup and view all the answers
What aspect does the author mention as part of their research methodology?
What aspect does the author mention as part of their research methodology?
Signup and view all the answers
What is a significant hazard when responding to events involving ESS with lithium-ion batteries?
What is a significant hazard when responding to events involving ESS with lithium-ion batteries?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the primary function of the Pressure Relief Devices (PRDs) in a CNG system?
What is the primary function of the Pressure Relief Devices (PRDs) in a CNG system?
Signup and view all the answers
What function does Response Solutions, LLC aim to fulfill under David Dodson’s instruction?
What function does Response Solutions, LLC aim to fulfill under David Dodson’s instruction?
Signup and view all the answers
What characteristic of CNG fuel cylinders contributes to their safety at high pressures?
What characteristic of CNG fuel cylinders contributes to their safety at high pressures?
Signup and view all the answers
When surveying Energy Storage Systems, what is a critical consideration for responders?
When surveying Energy Storage Systems, what is a critical consideration for responders?
Signup and view all the answers
What immediate action should be taken if a gas leak is observed in a CNG vehicle?
What immediate action should be taken if a gas leak is observed in a CNG vehicle?
Signup and view all the answers
Which of the following hazards is associated with CNG systems due to its high-pressure nature?
Which of the following hazards is associated with CNG systems due to its high-pressure nature?
Signup and view all the answers
Which component of a CNG fuel system is typically located on the driver's side between the steering and drive axle?
Which component of a CNG fuel system is typically located on the driver's side between the steering and drive axle?
Signup and view all the answers
What is a significant characteristic of the flammable range for CNG?
What is a significant characteristic of the flammable range for CNG?
Signup and view all the answers
What should be done if a combustible gas meter shows potential fuel leaks?
What should be done if a combustible gas meter shows potential fuel leaks?
Signup and view all the answers
Which component is designed to vent gas between 212°F to 220°F in a CNG system?
Which component is designed to vent gas between 212°F to 220°F in a CNG system?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the primary purpose of a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) for firefighters?
What is the primary purpose of a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) for firefighters?
Signup and view all the answers
When responding to smoke or odor from a Powerwall, what is the first action to take?
When responding to smoke or odor from a Powerwall, what is the first action to take?
Signup and view all the answers
What should be monitored during the overhaul in case of a structure fire near a Powerwall?
What should be monitored during the overhaul in case of a structure fire near a Powerwall?
Signup and view all the answers
What is an appropriate method for cooling the exterior casing of an active Powerwall fire?
What is an appropriate method for cooling the exterior casing of an active Powerwall fire?
Signup and view all the answers
How is a Powerwall determined to be stable post-fire?
How is a Powerwall determined to be stable post-fire?
Signup and view all the answers
What should firefighters do if the Powerwall is showing signs of elevated temperature?
What should firefighters do if the Powerwall is showing signs of elevated temperature?
Signup and view all the answers
Why is it important to announce the presence of alternate power sources during a structure fire?
Why is it important to announce the presence of alternate power sources during a structure fire?
Signup and view all the answers
What action is prohibited when dealing with a Powerwall that is not involved in a fire?
What action is prohibited when dealing with a Powerwall that is not involved in a fire?
Signup and view all the answers
What key factor contributed to the tragic incident involving a propane leak and subsequent explosion?
What key factor contributed to the tragic incident involving a propane leak and subsequent explosion?
Signup and view all the answers
Why is relying solely on the sense of smell considered inadequate for detecting gas leaks?
Why is relying solely on the sense of smell considered inadequate for detecting gas leaks?
Signup and view all the answers
Which statement accurately describes the purpose of the odorant added to natural gas and propane?
Which statement accurately describes the purpose of the odorant added to natural gas and propane?
Signup and view all the answers
What does the inability to detect the presence of gas due to odor fade suggest for proper fire department protocols?
What does the inability to detect the presence of gas due to odor fade suggest for proper fire department protocols?
Signup and view all the answers
What procedure is crucial for ensuring the reliability of gas detection equipment?
What procedure is crucial for ensuring the reliability of gas detection equipment?
Signup and view all the answers
How does the interaction of natural gas or propane with building materials affect its detection?
How does the interaction of natural gas or propane with building materials affect its detection?
Signup and view all the answers
Which action should firefighters take if they suspect a gas leak based on their training?
Which action should firefighters take if they suspect a gas leak based on their training?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the primary advantage of understanding odor fade for firefighters when responding to gas incidents?
What is the primary advantage of understanding odor fade for firefighters when responding to gas incidents?
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
CNG Fuel System Components
- Fuel cylinders are typically found on the roof, rear hatch, behind the cab, or frame rails of the vehicle.
- Fuel cylinders are Type 3 or 4, with pressure contained by a composite wrap, no metal is visible.
- The Fuel Control Module with a quarter turn shut-off is normally located on the driver's side between the steering wheel and the drive axle (on a ride-on bus, the passenger side rear).
- The layout of the Fuel Control Module is not universal and may vary by manufacturer.
- Pressure Relief Devices (PRDs) are designed to vent system pressure.
- Vehicle damage and position may modify the venting gas direction.
- Venting gas may ignite, become a jet fire, extinguish itself and re-ignite several times.
- PRDs are thermally activated to vent gas between 212°F to 220°F (100°C to 104°C).
- All new PRD Vents are to be directed vertically up, but older styles, that may still be found, vent sideways and down.
- High-pressure fuel lines are made of stainless steel tubing or flexible high-pressure hose.
- High-pressure fuel lines are labeled with a yellow identifying tag.
- Do not cut through CNG hoses or tubing.
CNG Vehicle Emergency Response (No Fire)
- Set the parking brake
- Turn off the engine
- Turn off the electrical system
- Turn off the CNG fuel
- If safe to do so, close the manual quarter-turn valve at the Fuel Control Module and cylinder valves.
- Eliminate all sources of ignition.
- Observe for any signs of gas leaks (CNG is odorized and will have a strong smell if there is a leak, leaking high-pressure gas will cause ice or frost at the leak source).
- Use a combustible gas meter to monitor for potential fuel leaks.
Fire Behavior Models
- Handbook 2003 fire behavior models are considered reliable by recent National Institute of Standards and Technology and Underwriters Laboratories fire studies.
- The models have been confirmed by research involving wood product manufacturers and live-fire training.
Response to Energy Storage Systems (ESS)
- Compromised lithium-ion batteries can produce flammable gases, posing a risk of fire and deflagration.
- Responders should always follow department policy and training procedures when dealing with ESS incidents.
- In commercial or utility installations, responders should follow pre-planned procedures and avoid entering the structure.
- In residential settings, responders should control power to the ESS, ventilate the area, and protect exposures.
- It is crucial for responders to contact the manufacturer's technical support as soon as possible.
- Each manufacturer provides specific response guidelines that should be made available to first responders prior to activation.
- Smoke or suspicious odor from an ESS system can indicate a hazardous condition.
- In the event of thermal runaway, there is usually a period of smoke, which is likely flammable and may ignite at any time.
Responding to a Venting ESS Product
- Evacuate the area immediately.
- Never open any doors or remove panels from ESS units.
- Contact vendor-specific technical support for assistance, including access to battery management system (BMS) data.
- For residential units, ensure proper ventilation of the space and have charged hose lines in place.
- Maintain a safe distance from the ESS and monitor its condition.
- Larger commercial ESS may have a remote fire department connection (FDC) for sprinkler system activation.
- Each manufacturer recommends a specific cooling down time for battery packs, which can be near a full work cycle of 12 hours or more.
- Water spray is the preferred agent for responding to lithium-ion battery fires, as they are not water reactive.
- If only smoke is visible, maintain a defensive position and be prepared to apply water spray.
- If fire develops, maintain a defensive position and apply water spray to neighboring battery enclosures and exposures.
- Maintain a safe distance from the unit involved, at least 300 feet for large commercial systems.
- Allow the battery to burn out.
CNG Fuel System Components
- CNG vehicles have fuel cylinders typically located on the roof, rear hatch, behind the cab, or within the frame rails.
- The cylinders are typically type 3 or 4, with pressure contained within a composite wrap, and no visible metal.
- The Fuel Control Module with the quarter-turn shut-off valve is typically located on the driver's side between the steering and drive axle (on ride-on buses, passenger side rear).
- The layout of the Fuel Control Module is not universal and may vary by manufacturer.
- Pressure Relief Devices (PRDs) are designed to vent system pressure. Venting gas may ignite and become a jet fire.
- New PRDs are designed to vent vertically upward, but older models may vent sideways or downward.
- High-pressure fuel lines are made of stainless steel tubing or flexible high-pressure hose labeled with a yellow identifying tag. It is crucial not to cut through CNG hoses or tubing.
CNG Vehicle Emergency Response (No Fire)
- Set the parking brake.
- Turn off the engine, electrical system, and CNG fuel.
- In case of vehicle damage and gas leaks, close the manual quarter-turn valve at the Fuel Control Module and cylinder valves.
- Eliminate all sources of ignition.
- Observe for signs of gas leaks. CNG is odorized and will have a strong smell if there is a leak. Leaking high-pressure gas will cause ice or frost at the leak source.
- Use a combustible gas meter to monitor for potential fuel leaks.
- Contact a Hazardous Materials Officer.
Odor Fade in Natural Gas and Propane
- Mercaptan is a volatile liquid added to natural gas and propane to make them smell.
- Natural gas and propane are odorless, and mercaptan helps detect leaks.
- The odorant can fade when exposed to soil, concrete, and building materials like drywall, wood, and new piping storage tanks.
- Firefighters should use gas detection equipment and not rely on their sense of smell to determine if propane or natural gas is present.
- Fire departments should ensure firefighters are trained on the proper calibration, maintenance, and use of gas detection equipment.
Firefighter PPE for Natural Gas and Propane Incidents
- Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and structural firefighting gear.
- Standard structural firefighting gear provides adequate protection against these substances.
Responding to a Venting Powerwall
- Smoke or suspicious odor from a Powerwall indicates an abnormal and hazardous condition.
- Battery thermal runaway fires are preceded by a period of smoke.
- If fire, smoke, or suspicious odor is observed, take the following steps:
- Shut off the unit/system (see Shutting Down in an Emergency on page 14).
- Evacuate the area of all non-emergency personnel.
- Contact Tesla for assistance (Identification of Company and Contact Information on page 3).
- Use a wide stream fog nozzle to prevent fire extension and cool the battery casing. Do not pull the Powerwall from the wall or attempt to open it.
- Monitor the unit's temperature after the fire is extinguished.
- Contact Tesla for next steps (Identification of Company and Contact Information on page 3).
Responding to a Structure Fire with a Powerwall
- Announce the presence and location of alternative power sources during size-up.
- Building and fire codes require labeling to alert emergency personnel. This is typically found at the main electrical service location.
- Shut down the Powerwall during a building fire, but do not pull it from its mounting.
- Monitor the Powerwall's temperature during overhaul for any elevation if the fire is in close proximity to it.
- Contact Tesla as early as practicable (Identification of Company and Contact Information on page 3).
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Related Documents
Description
Explore the essential components of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) fuel systems. This quiz covers fuel cylinder locations, types, and the function of Pressure Relief Devices (PRDs). Gain understanding of safety measures related to venting gas and the design variations among manufacturers.
