Cancer Reduction Initiative (Hard)

Gross Decontamination

• Gross decontamination is mandatory when PPE is exposed to combustion products or other contaminants.
• During decontamination, firefighters must remain connected to their SCBA for lung and face protection.
• Utilize an apparatus booster line with a fog nozzle on a power cone setting for rinsing from top to bottom.
• For debris removal, employ a bristle brush if wet decontamination is not feasible due to temperature.
• After gross decontamination, firefighters cannot re-enter the IDLH atmosphere.
• Overhaul completion is a requirement before the last firefighter undergoes gross decontamination.
• Remove all PPE and place it in a heavy-duty trash bag, which should be placed outside the vehicle compartment.

Personal Decontamination

• Use wet personal decontamination wipes on the head, neck, jaw, throat, underarms, and hands while on scene.
• Body decontamination is crucial before eating or drinking at rehab.
• Utilize soap provided in the decontamination bag for hand and face washing prior to eating.

Post Incident Procedures

• The incident commander should consider additional resources for overhaul based on incident severity and crew exposure.
• Prioritize decontamination for crews with the longest exposure to contaminants and PPE time.
• Upon returning to the station, open turnout bags to off-gas outside.
• Remove contaminated gear and place it in the gear extractor while wearing medical gloves.

Apparatus Decontamination

• Decontaminate the apparatus interior with appropriate ventilation and medical gloves.
• Leave apparatus windows open and utilize a bay floor fan for ventilation and drying.

Cycle Sauna

• Use the Cycle Sauna after handling contaminated PPE and showering.
• An initial shower is essential to remove loose contaminants before the detoxification session.
• Wear loose clothing for the exercise portion of the detoxification process.

Overhaul

• Prioritize firefighter safety during post-fire operations.
• Encourage prompt exit from structures to reduce chemical exposure time.
• Allow the Harris County Fire Marshal's office to gather information before overhaul begins.
• Designate hot, warm, and cold zones during the structural cooling off period.
• SCBA or a department-issued SCBA mask filter with an adapter is mandatory for all work inside the structure during overhaul.

Equipment Cleaning

• SCBA face masks and tools are contaminated by smoky atmospheres.
• Proper cleaning is crucial to prevent continued exposure to carcinogens.
• Gross decontamination of equipment should be performed at the scene.
• Transport fire hose back to the station in a utility vehicle, avoiding the passenger compartment.
• Wear proper PPE to limit dermal absorption during equipment handling and cleaning.
• Clean contaminated equipment at a location that protects personnel and living quarters.
• Cleaning should follow manufacturer guidelines.

This quiz covers essential procedures for gross and personal decontamination for firefighters. It addresses the use of PPE, rinsing techniques, and the importance of thorough decontamination before entering rehab. Understand the protocols to ensure safety and health in hazardous environments.