II-R-12 Carbon Monoxide (CO) Meter 01/04/2022

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of a CO meter issued to suppression and rescue units?

To measure carbon monoxide levels in specified situations (correct)

To determine the effectiveness of fire retardants

To monitor temperature changes in the environment

To measure air pressure during fire suppression

Where should the CO meter assigned to battalion chief units be stored?

In the equipment locker at the station

In the passenger cab attached to the MCU handle (correct)

In the crew cabin of the truck

In the apparatus tool compartment

What should the Officer-in-Charge do if the CO meter detects CO in the apparatus?

Shut down the apparatus and evacuate personnel (correct)

Ignore the reading if the apparatus is not running

Attempt to locate the source of CO within the apparatus

Continue operations while monitoring the reading

What is the maximum allowable parts per million (ppm) for CO readings before advising occupants not to inhabit the property?

9 ppm Signup and view all the answers

When a unit OIC decides to discontinue patient transport due to meter activation, what immediate action must be taken?

Request a replacement transport unit and exit the apparatus Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a proper situation for using the CO meter?

During active fire suppression operations Signup and view all the answers

What procedure should be followed if CO is detected while on a non-fire call?

Notify FAO and ensure all personnel exit the structure Signup and view all the answers

What is the operational life span of a CO meter?

Five years Signup and view all the answers

What common symptom is associated with mild acute CO poisoning?

Nausea Signup and view all the answers

What should be done immediately after a high alarm activation on the CO meter?

Move the meter to a clean, open-air environment Signup and view all the answers

Which statement regarding the CO meter's low alarm is true?

It produces one beep, one flash, and one vibration per second at 25 ppm Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a characteristic of carbon monoxide (CO)?

It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless Signup and view all the answers

What testing procedure is required to ensure the CO meter's accuracy?

Calibration by exposing the instrument to a test gas Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if there is a question regarding the CO meter’s operation or accuracy?

Submit a HazMat service request and notify HazMat Bureau Signup and view all the answers

What must the unit OIC ensure before allowing crews to re-enter a structure affected by CO?

Personal protective equipment including SCBA is used Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for not attempting to ventilate the structure until confirmed by a HazMat unit?

It could mask the source of the CO Signup and view all the answers

What document must be completed if a CO meter is lost or damaged?

A Lost or Damaged Property Form Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if CO readings confirm the presence of CO after a meter activation during transport?

Tow the apparatus for inspection and repairs Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

CO Meter Issuance and Responsibility

Every suppression, rescue, and battalion unit will receive a Carbon Monoxide (CO) meter.
Unit Officers-in-Charge (OIC) are responsible for the meter's presence and calibration.
The CO meter has a fixed operational life of five years and is issued activated, requiring no battery replacement.

Situations for CO Meter Usage

Meter is used in the apparatus, during non-fire emergencies (e.g., EMS responses, public assists), and post-fire to assess CO levels.
The CO meter should not be employed during active fire suppression or investigation operations.

Meter Storage Guidelines

Suppression and rescue unit meters are kept attached to the EPCR tablet's strap.
Battalion chief unit meters are stored in the passenger cab, secured to the Mobile Computer Unit handle.

Calibration and CO Properties

Calibration involves testing sensor accuracy by exposing the meter to a test gas.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) is colorless, odorless, tasteless, and highly toxic, produced from incomplete combustion of fuels.
CO binds with hemoglobin in blood, hindering oxygen transport and potentially causing tissue hypoxia.

Signs and Symptoms of CO Poisoning

Common symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, and weakness.

General Guidelines for CO Detection

If CO is detected:
- In apparatus: Shut down the unit, evacuate personnel, notify relevant officials, and call a HazMat unit.
- During non-fire calls: Evacuate occupants from affected areas, notify the Fire Alarm Office, and secure the scene.
- Post-fire: Use the meter to determine CO presence; readings must be documented, and occupancy warnings issued.

Maintenance of the CO Meter

After high alarm activation, the meter should be placed in an open environment until readings return to zero, avoiding exposure to exhaust.
Keep meter cover clean with a damp cloth; do not use solvents or cleaners.
Avoid storing the meter near silicone lubricants or chemicals to prevent sensor saturation.

Alarm Notification Procedures

Alarms activate when gas concentrations exceed pre-set limits, remaining on until acceptable levels are achieved.
Low Alarm: One beep, flash, and vibration per second at 25 parts per million (ppm).
High Alarm: Two beeps, flashes, and vibrations per second at 100 ppm.

Replacement Procedures

For meter replacement, complete an online HazMat Service Request.
If the meter is lost, damaged, or stolen, submit a Lost or Damaged Property Form and obtain a police report and investigative memorandum from the Battalion Chief.

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Description

This quiz covers the procedures and responsibilities regarding the issuance and management of CO meters in suppression, rescue, and battalion units. It highlights calibration requirements, operational life, and the intended use of the CO meter in various situations. Understanding these aspects is crucial for effective operational safety.