Firefighter Cancer Risk Management Guidelines

Spring Fire Department Standard Operating Guideline SFD.002

• This guideline pertains to all Spring Fire Department personnel, outlining procedures for reducing the risk of cancer for firefighters.
• Firefighters face elevated cancer risks due to their work environment, making personal responsibility for health crucial.
• The document details a comprehensive approach to decontamination and hygiene, emphasizing the use of proper equipment, cleaning methods, and practices to minimize exposure to carcinogens and other contaminants.
• It includes specifics on utilizing apparatus decontamination bags, SCBA mask filters, proper decontamination procedures after fireground operations, and the importance of cleaning and sanitizing equipment, including SCBA, hoses, and the apparatus itself.

Cancer Reduction Initiative

• Firefighters should prioritize healthy habits, including avoiding tobacco use, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting regular medical checks to lower cancer risk.

Apparatus Decontamination Bag

• This bag contains essential items for personal decontamination, including cleaning wipes, soap, brushes, and gloves, ensuring individual firefighters can remove contaminants efficiently after incidents.

SCBA Mask Filters

• For overhaul operations, only Spring Fire Department-approved filters are permissible to be used with SCBA masks.

Fire Scene Operations

• When exposed to IDLH environments, firefighters must use SCBA without exception.
• Outside IDLH environments with adequate oxygen levels, a department-issued cartridge system and SCBA mask adapter may be used, with vigilance to monitor air quality.

Guideline Implementation

• During an incident, the incident commander has the authority to implement the cartridge system, taking into account factors like air quality and crew workload.
• The use of SCBA or SCBA mask filters must be determined based on the specific environment.
• Following stabilization of the incident and initiation of demobilization, the apparatus operator retrieves the decontamination bag.
• Gross decontamination of PPE is mandatory whenever exposure to combustion products occurs, or as deemed necessary by the company officer or incident commander.

Gross Decontamination Process

• During decontamination, firefighters must remain connected to their SCBA for respiratory protection.
• The preferred decontamination method involves using an apparatus booster line with a fog nozzle and bristle brush, rinsing from top to bottom.

Post-Decontamination Procedures

• Firefighters should not re-enter the IDLH atmosphere after decontamination.
• The incident commander ensures overhaul is completed before the last firefighter is decontaminated.
• Each member should remove all PPE, placing it in a heavy-duty trash bag, which is kept outside the passenger compartment.
• Members should self-decontaminate using wipes for their head, neck, jaw, throat, underarms, and hands immediately after gross decontamination.
• Body decontamination with soap is mandatory before rehab or taking meals.

Incident Severity and Decontamination

• The intensity and severity of the incident dictates the level of decontamination required.
• The incident commander may request additional resources for overhaul as needed.
• Firefighters with the most significant exposure are prioritized for decontamination first.
• Decontamination decisions are made on a case-by-case basis based on exposure severity.

Station Return Procedures

• Upon returning to the fire station, firefighters should open turnout bags outside before showering, removing contaminated gear and placing it in a gear extractor.
• Wearing medical gloves minimizes contaminant exposure to the skin.
• The apparatus interior must be decontaminated with adequate ventilation, wearing medical gloves while cleaning surfaces.

Cycle Sauna Detoxification

• A cycle sauna session is recommended following a shower to promote toxin removal and detoxification.
• Loose-fitting clothing, T-shirts, shorts, and tennis shoes enhance sweating and removal of carcinogens.

Gear Rotation and Cleaning

• A second set of gear should be placed back into service, ensuring all equipment is ready for an emergency response.
• Helmets and boots should be thoroughly cleaned.
• The primary focus during post-fire operations is personnel safety.
• Crews should exit structures as quickly as possible to allow chemicals to dissipate naturally and reduce exposure.

This quiz covers the Standard Operating Guideline SFD.002 from the Spring Fire Department, focusing on cancer risk reduction for firefighters. It outlines essential decontamination procedures, hygiene practices, and personal health responsibilities designed to minimize exposure to carcinogens. Firefighter safety and health practices are emphasized to support a proactive cancer reduction initiative.