Firefighter Respiratory Protection Guidelines
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Questions and Answers

What is the minimum personal protective equipment (PPE) required for personnel conducting overhaul?

  • Issued particulate mask, long sleeved shirt, gloves, issued eye protection, helmet, issued turnout pants and boots (correct)
  • Long sleeved shirt, helmet, and turnout pants
  • Issued particulate mask, gloves, and helmet
  • Long sleeved shirt, gloves, and eye protection

    • Which of the following conditions must all be met for personnel to downgrade respiratory protection during overhaul?

  • Meet atmospheric limits established and use carbon-monoxide generating fans
  • Only use non-carbon-monoxide generating fans and meet established meter readings and conditions (correct)
  • Issue particulate masks and ensure the presence of turnout gear
  • Ensure no grossly soiled gear and provide hand cleaning supplies

    • What should personnel do before entering the rehab area regarding their turnout gear?

  • Wash turnout gear at the nearest facility
  • Remove all gear and replace it with clean attire
  • Hang turnout gear outside the rehab area to air out
  • Ensure no turnout gear is present in the rehab area (correct)

    • What is required of personnel concerning obvious contaminants in the rehab area?

    <p>The rehab area must be free from vehicle exhaust, smoke, or other obvious contaminants</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What procedure should be followed concerning grossly soiled gear before it is either donned again or transported?

    <p>It should only be brushed off to remove visible contamination</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How long should apparatus windows be left open after personnel return from operations?

    <p>At least 1 hour</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of fan should be used for forced-air ventilation when taking readings?

    <p>A non-carbon-monoxide generating fan</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the action taken regarding food consumption in the rehab area?

    <p>Food must be consumed without bare hands unless hand washing is available</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which procedure should firefighters follow immediately after returning from a fire incident?

    <p>Shower and change their clothes as soon as possible.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary aim of Fire Chiefs General Order 16-07?

    <p>To balance the risks of chemical exposure and heat stress.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which condition allows for the downgrade of respiratory protection levels according to the guidelines?

    <p>When the heat index is above 80 degrees.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How often should firefighters wash their firefighting hood and gloves?

    <p>At least once a month or after gross contamination.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should firefighters be cautious of while riding on apparatus?

    <p>Transferring contaminants hand-to-mouth.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of mask should firefighters wear when cleaning equipment with visible particulates?

    <p>An issued particulate filter mask.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action is recommended if the heat index drops below 80 degrees?

    <p>Maintain the current level of respiratory protection.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done with a second set of gear whenever possible?

    <p>It should remain clean and available for use.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Under what condition should personnel not downgrade their respiratory protection?

    <p>If resources for monitoring are limited.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of complaints could indicate the need for immediate respiratory protection?

    <p>Shortness of breath or respiratory issues.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done if hazardous materials are suspected or known?

    <p>Implement necessary safety measures for hazardous materials.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which situation does NOT warrant the use of respiratory protection?

    <p>Personnel feeling relaxed and safe.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of the guidance provided in conjunction with specific policies and programs?

    <p>To ensure consistency and effectiveness in respiratory protection practices.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why must the apparatus bay doors remain closed?

    <p>To increase security and prevent unauthorized access.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action is required if suspicious activity is observed?

    <p>Report immediately to the station officer.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the respiratory protection policy, when is respiratory protection equipment (RPE) required?

    <p>In atmospheres that are Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH).</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary concern leading to mandatory use of RPE during overhaul operations?

    <p>Reducing the incidence of cancer among personnel.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must happen before personnel can switch from SCBA to N95 masks during overhaul?

    <p>A Haz-Mat Officer must inspect the site.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a requirement to reduce respiratory protection from SCBA to particulate filter masks?

    <p>Personnels' training on RPE equipment.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of the Safety Officer during overhaul operations?

    <p>To evaluate each compartment for safety.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What constitutes a hazardous and toxic atmosphere according to the MCFRS policy?

    <p>Environments containing respiratory hazards during activities.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the minimum heat index temperature that should be noted before downgrading respiratory protection?

    <p>80 degrees</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which tool is primarily used for heat index determination according to the guidelines?

    <p>OSHA Heat Index Smartphone App</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should the SCBA user recommend in the event of a CO sensor alarm at 30 PPM?

    <p>Return to use SCBA immediately</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the frequency limit for continuous metering checks for each compartment?

    <p>Every 15 minutes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Under which condition can meters be utilized?

    <p>When there are no visible smoke and good ventilation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the alarm setting for the CO sensor in a SCBA unit?

    <p>25 PPM</p> Signup and view all the answers

    If the air temperature is measured at 75 degrees and the relative humidity is 80%, what is the effective heat index used in the safety guidelines?

    <p>85 degrees</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of the HCN sensor in the meter requirements?

    <p>To alert for hydrogen cyanide exposure</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the maximum time interval for continuous metering checks in each compartment?

    <p>15 minutes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Under what atmospheric condition is the use of meters prohibited?

    <p>Visible smoke</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should a meter user do if they witness the activation of any alarm on the meter?

    <p>Recommend the immediate return to SCBA</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements regarding heat index is true?

    <p>OSHA Heat Index Smartphone App is the primary source for its determination.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the alarm setting for the CO sensor indicate?

    <p>25 PPM</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the minimum heat index temperature before considering downgrading respiratory protection?

    <p>80 degrees</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the required sensors included in the minimum sensor compliment for meters?

    <p>HCN sensor</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these conditions does not allow for the downgrade of respiratory protection?

    <p>There is visible smoke.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the minimum PPE required for personnel during overhaul operations?

    <p>Issued particulate mask, long sleeved shirt, gloves, eye protection, helmet, turnout pants and boots</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a responsibility of the Unit Officers regarding grossly soiled gear?

    <p>Ensure grossly soiled gear is cleaned before coming back to the station</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should personnel do with their turnout gear immediately before entering the rehab area?

    <p>Wipe down gear with cleansing wipes before entry</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of wiping exposed skin surfaces with cleansing wipes in the rehab area?

    <p>To remove soot and contaminants</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How long should the apparatus windows be left open after personnel return from operations?

    <p>1 hour</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of fan should be utilized for forced-air ventilation before taking meter readings?

    <p>A non-carbon-monoxide generating fan</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action should be taken regarding food consumption in the rehab area?

    <p>Food must be consumed without touching by bare hands unless hand washing is possible</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must personnel ensure about the rehab area before entering?

    <p>That there are no contaminants present</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary reason for the mandatory use of Respiratory Protection Equipment (RPE) during overhaul operations?

    <p>To reduce the incidence of cancer among personnel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following conditions indicates that the downgrade from SCBA to N95 masks can occur?

    <p>There is an absence of visible smoke in the compartment</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must happen for personnel to work in a compartment without SCBA?

    <p>The compartment must be evaluated by a safety official</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why must apparatus bay doors remain closed?

    <p>To prevent unauthorized entry</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best defines a hazardous and toxic atmosphere as per MCFRS policy?

    <p>An environment containing respiratory hazards during MCFRS activities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary responsibility of MCFRS personnel regarding equipment security?

    <p>To ensure the security of stations, apparatus, and equipment</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be done regarding apparatus and equipment during emergency incidents?

    <p>Always have a crew member remain with it</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should personnel do if they observe suspicious activity?

    <p>Report it to the station officer immediately</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When is it permissible to leave MCFRS apparatus unattended?

    <p>Only if within sight of MCFRS personnel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is necessary for a compartment to be cleared for personnel to use RPE other than SCBA?

    <p>It must be free of visible smoke</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the issued N95 particulate mask protect against?

    <p>Inhalation of particulate matter</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action must crews take before leaving the station?

    <p>Make sure bay doors have closed or will close automatically</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of threats does equipment theft pose to the community?

    <p>Potential for equipment to be used for illegal activities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who is primarily responsible for maintaining the security of the unit's equipment?

    <p>The unit officer</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is required of stations to ensure operational readiness?

    <p>They must remain secured at all times</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What procedure should be followed while conducting routine business?

    <p>Apparatus and equipment should never be left unattended</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary personal protective equipment required during the cleaning of equipment containing visible particulate matter?

    <p>Particulate filter mask and EMS grade gloves</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How often should firefighters wash their firefighting gear to ensure cleanliness?

    <p>At least once a month or after gross contamination</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action should personnel take after a fire incident to minimize contamination risks?

    <p>Change clothes and shower as soon as possible</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Under what circumstance may personnel downgrade respiratory protection during overhaul operations?

    <p>When using mechanical ventilation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What common risk is associated with exposure to chemical contaminants for firefighting personnel?

    <p>Certain types of cancers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What practice should personnel adopt to avoid transferring contaminants hand-to-mouth while on apparatus?

    <p>Avoid eating while on the apparatus</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should personnel keep available for immediate use to enhance cleanliness during operations?

    <p>A clean second set of gear</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should personnel do to mitigate the effects of heat stress according to the guidance provided?

    <p>Monitor the atmosphere and allow a downgrade of protective gear when appropriate</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What condition could indicate a need for respiratory protection?

    <p>A person complaining of any respiratory complaints</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor could allow personnel to downgrade respiratory protection while in a hazardous environment?

    <p>Sensor readings indicating safe levels</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done if hazardous materials are suspected to be present?

    <p>Implement protective measures and use respiratory protection</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor is NOT considered when assessing the need for respiratory protection?

    <p>The amount of prior exposure to pollutants</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Under what condition should personnel not downgrade their respiratory protection?

    <p>When there are insufficient meters or personnel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary responsibility of the Safety Officer regarding meter using personnel during overhaul?

    <p>To grant permission for downgrading respiratory protection</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT part of the minimum personal protective equipment (PPE) during overhaul?

    <p>Safety goggles</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be ensured before taking meter readings?

    <p>Atmospheric conditions are within specific limits</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is required of personnel in the rehab area concerning food consumption?

    <p>Food can be eaten without any hand washing</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement is true about the management of grossly soiled gear?

    <p>It should be brushed off before donning or transport</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done when personnel return from suppression or overhaul operations?

    <p>Leave the apparatus windows open for a minimum of one hour</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a responsibility of Unit Officers concerning grossly soiled gear?

    <p>They must prevent wearing it in the apparatus passenger compartment</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which procedure is recommended for personnel entering the rehab area?

    <p>To decontaminate skin surfaces with cleansing wipes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the maximum allowable heat index for personnel to consider downgrading their respiratory protection?

    <p>80 degrees</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Under what condition is the use of meters prohibited during a response operation?

    <p>When there is visible smoke</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the alarm setting for the CO sensor that must be used with the meter?

    <p>25 PPM</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What frequency should continuous metering checks not exceed for each compartment?

    <p>15 minutes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be immediately recommended by the meter user upon the activation of any alarm on the meter?

    <p>To recommend the returned use of SCBA</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which tool is the primary source for determining the heat index?

    <p>Heat index smartphone app</p> Signup and view all the answers

    If the meter user notices tearing of turnout gear, what action should be taken?

    <p>Recommend immediate return to SCBA</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What additional degree should be accounted for based on the heat retention of turnout gear?

    <p>10 degrees</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main purpose of implementing mandatory respiratory protection equipment (RPE) during overhaul operations?

    <p>To reduce cancer risk among personnel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following must be true for personnel to transition from using SCBA to N95 masks during overhaul operations?

    <p>A Safety Officer must evaluate the compartment</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action must be taken if suspicious activity is observed in the apparatus bay?

    <p>Report to the station officer</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following defines a hazardous and toxic atmosphere according to MCFRS policy?

    <p>An environment with respiratory hazards</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is NOT a condition that must be met before downgrading respiratory protection from SCBA to particulate filter masks?

    <p>The compartment must be cleared of personnel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When must apparatus bay doors remain closed?

    <p>Unless fire rescue personnel are actively engaged</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of conditions necessitate the use of respiratory protection equipment according to MCFRS policies?

    <p>In atmospheres that are Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of the division of operations chief regarding questions about respiratory protection?

    <p>To clarify any questions or concerns regarding policies</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should personnel do with their firefighting gear after each fire?

    <p>Change out of it as soon as possible</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of clothing should firefighters wear when cleaning equipment with particulates?

    <p>Issued particulate filter mask and gloves</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How often should firefighting gloves be washed in the absence of gross contamination?

    <p>Once a month or after each gross contamination</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a precaution firefighters should take to avoid contaminating themselves?

    <p>Avoid touching their faces while riding on the apparatus</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action should be taken regarding gear whenever possible?

    <p>Keep a clean second set available</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should personnel handle their gear immediately after returning from a fire?

    <p>Change out of it and shower as soon as possible</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When can a downgrade of respiratory protection levels occur during operations?

    <p>When the heat index is below 80 degrees</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which action is recommended if the heat index is greater than 80 degrees?

    <p>Lower respiratory protection and monitor the atmosphere</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Respiratory Protection

    • Firefighters must wear Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) in Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH) atmospheres and hazardous and/or toxic atmospheres
    • RPE use during overhaul operations is mandatory
    • SCBA must be used during overhaul until the defined criteria are met
    • The Safety Officer, Haz-Mat Officer (HMO), or Chief Officer must evaluate each compartment that personnel will be working
    • The compartment must be free of visible smoke
    • Forced-air ventilation using a non-carbon-monoxide generating fan must be in place
    • Readings must be within the limits established by the Safety Section Chief
    • Only particulate filter masks issued by MCFRS may be used

    Overhaul Minimum PPE

    • Issued particulate mask
    • Long sleeved shirt
    • Gloves
    • Issued eye protection
    • Helmet
    • Issued turnout pants and boots

    Rehab Area Guidelines

    • No turnout gear permitted in the rehab area
    • The rehab area must be free from vehicle exhaust, smoke, or other obvious contaminants
    • Personnel entering the rehab area must wipe all exposed skin surfaces
    • Food consumed in the rehab area cannot be touched by bare hands unless hand washing is available
    • Grossly soiled gear must be decontaminated before being donned again or transported

    Unit Officer Responsibilities

    • Personnel should not wear grossly soiled gear in the passenger compartment of apparatus
    • Grossly soiled gear, whenever possible, should be transported back to the station in a separate compartment
    • Apparatus windows should be left open for at least 1 hour after personnel return from suppression or overhaul operations
    • Personnel must wear hand protection when cleaning or replacing equipment on the scene

    Personnel Responsibilities

    • Clean themselves to remove as much soot as possible
    • Wear at least an issued particulate filter mask and EMS grade gloves when cleaning equipment that contains any visible particulate matter
    • Shower as soon as possible after each fire
    • Change their clothes as soon as possible after each fire
    • Wash their firefighting hood, firefighting gloves and utility gloves at least once a month or after each gross contamination
    • Keep a clean second set of gear available for use

    Established Atmospheric Conditions and Meter Readings

    • Incident Commanders must consider all atmospheric conditions and meter readings before allowing personnel to downgrade their respiratory and personal protective equipment
    • Heat index must be 80 degrees or greater
    • IAFF recommendation to add 10 degrees to the air temperature to account for heat retention of turn-out gear
    • OSHA Heat Index Smartphone App is the primary source for heat index determination
    • Meter users must monitor the scene atmosphere and may not serve in any other capacity
    • Meter readings must be continuous with checks not to exceed 15 minutes for each compartment
    • Continued mandatory SCBA requirements if alarm activation, tearing, shortness of breath, eye or skin irritation, or presence of any substance larger than is typical for household use is observed.

    Station, Apparatus, and Equipment Security

    • To ensure security, MCFRS personnel are responsible for maintaining the security of stations, apparatus, and equipment
    • Unit officers are responsible for the unit and its equipment
    • When on emergency incidents, a crew member must remain with apparatus and equipment
    • During routine business, apparatus and equipment should never be left unattended
    • One crew member must remain with the apparatus at all times
    • When parked at most stations, apparatus and equipment may be left unattended but only if within sight of MCFRS personnel
    • Stations must remain secured at all times and bay doors must remain closed unless fire rescue personnel are actively engaged in activities in the apparatus bays or have direct visual observation of the bays
    • All suspicious activity and/or loss/theft must be reported immediately to the station officer

    Respiratory Protection and Cancer Risk Reduction

    • The use of appropriate Respiratory Protection Equipment (RPE) during the entirety of overhaul operations is mandatory
    • The policy is in place to reduce the incidence of cancer among MCFRS personnel
    • When overhaul begins, personnel must continue to use SCBA until conditions meet the parameters listed below
    • Only particulate filter masks issued by MCFRS may be used
    • The minimum PPE used by personnel conducting overhaul must include particulate mask, long-sleeved shirt, gloves, issued eye protection, helmet, and issued turnout pants and boots
    • No turnout gear is allowed in the rehab area
    • The rehab area must be free from vehicle exhaust, smoke, or other obvious contaminants
    • Personnel entering the rehab area must wipe all exposed skin surfaces with cleansing wipes
    • Personnel should try to remove as much soot as possible from the head, neck, jaw, throat, underarms, and hands
    • Food consumed in the rehab area should not be touched by bare hands unless hand washing is available
    • Grossly soiled gear must be decontaminated before it is donned again or transported in apparatus
    • Personnel must not wear grossly soiled gear in the passenger compartment of apparatus
    • Grossly soiled gear should be transported back to the station in a separate compartment
    • Apparatus windows must be left open for at least 1 hour after personnel return from suppression or overhaul operations
    • Personnel must wear hand protection when cleaning or replacing equipment
    • Personnel are responsible for removing soot from the head, neck, jaw, throat, underarms, and hands
    • Personnel should wear at least an issued particulate filter mask and EMS grade gloves when cleaning equipment
    • Personnel must shower as soon as possible after each fire
    • Personnel must change their clothes as soon as possible after each fire
    • Personnel must wash their firefighting hood, firefighting gloves and utility gloves at least once a month or after each gross contamination
    • Personnel should keep a clean second set of gear available for use for alternating use
    • This FCGO also modifies MCFRS Policy 26-06AMll Respiratory Protection Policy

    Atmospheric Conditions and Meter Readings

    • MCFRS personnel are exposed to chemical contaminants and heat stress
    • MCFRS follows the IAFF recommendation to add 10 degrees to the air temperature to account for heat retention of turn-out gear
    • The OSHA Heat Index Smartphone App is the primary source for heat index determination
    • Meter readings and atmospheric conditions must be within the limits established by the Safety Section Chief
    • The meter user's sole responsibility is to monitor the scene atmosphere and may not serve in any other capacity
    • Meters must be used in accordance with established equipment operating protocols
    • Meters cannot be used when there is visible smoke
    • Metering must be continuous with the frequency of checks not to exceed 15-minutes for each compartment
    • Minimum sensor compliment includes oxygen sensor, CO sensor, HCN sensor, and PID
    • If the meter user witnesses the activation of any alarm on the meter, tearing, even in the absence of meter readings, they must immediately recommend the returned use of SCBA

    Respiratory Protection and Cancer Risk Reduction

    • MCFRS personnel are required to use Respiratory Protection Equipment (RPE) in Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH) atmospheres and hazardous or toxic atmospheres.

    • Overhaul operations are considered hazardous and toxic and require the use of RPE, specifically, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA).

    • To reduce the level of respiratory protection from SCBA to particulate filter masks, the following conditions must be met:

      • A Safety Officer, Haz-Mat Officer (HMO), or Chief Officer must evaluate each compartment individually.
      • The compartment must be free of visible smoke.
      • Forced-air ventilation must be in place.
      • Meter readings and atmospheric conditions must be within established limits.
      • Only particulate filter masks issued by MCFRS can be used.

    • The Incident Commander approves downgrading of respiratory protection to particulate filter masks if all conditions for downgrading are met.

    Rehab Area Requirements

    • No turnout gear is allowed in the rehab area.

    • The rehab area must be free of vehicle exhaust, smoke, or other contaminants.

    • Personnel entering the rehab area must wipe all exposed skin surfaces with cleansing wipes.

    • Food consumed in the rehab area should not be touched with bare hands unless handwashing is available.

    • Grossly soiled gear must be decontaminated by brushing off visible contamination before being worn again or transported in apparatus.

    Unit Officer Responsibilities

    • Unit Officers must ensure personnel are not wearing grossly soiled gear in the passenger compartment of apparatus.

    • Whenever possible, grossly soiled gear should be transported back to the station in a separate compartment.

    • Apparatus windows should be left open for at least one hour after personnel return from suppression or overhaul operations.

    • Personnel must wear hand protection when cleaning or replacing equipment on the scene, including repacking hose lines.

    Personnel Responsibilities

    • Personnel are responsible for cleaning themselves to remove soot from the head, neck, jaw, throat, underarms, and hands.

    • Personnel must wear at least an issued particulate filter mask and EMS grade gloves when cleaning equipment that contains visible particulate matter.

    • Personnel must shower as soon as possible after each fire.

    • Personnel must change their clothes as soon as possible after each fire.

    • Personnel must wash their firefighting hood, firefighting gloves, and utility gloves at least once a month or after each gross contamination.

    • Personnel should keep a clean second set of gear available for use.

    Atmospheric Conditions for Downgrading Respiratory Protection

    • The heat index must be 80 degrees Fahrenheit or greater.

    • The heat index is a combination of air temperature and relative humidity.

    • The MCFRS adds 10 degrees to the air temperature to account for the heat retention of turnout gear.

    • The OSHA Heat Index Smartphone App is the primary source for heat index determination.

    • If no visible smoke is present, forced-air ventilation with a non-CO generating fan must be in place before any meter readings are taken.

    • The meter user's sole responsibility is to monitor the scene atmosphere and may not serve in any other capacity.

    • Meters must be used in accordance with established equipment operating protocols.

    • The frequency of meter checks should not exceed 15-minute intervals for each compartment.

    Minimum Sensor Compliment

    • An oxygen sensor with an alarm set at 20.7%

    • A carbon monoxide (CO) sensor with an alarm set at 25 PPM

    • A hydrogen cyanide (HCN) sensor with an alarm set at 5 PPM

    • A photoionization detector (PID) with a 10.6 EV bulb with an alarm set at 10 PPM

    Mandatory SCBA Requirements

    • Personnel must immediately recommend the return to SCBA if any of the following occur:
      • An alarm activates on the meter.
      • Tearing occurs.
      • Someone complains of shortness of breath or other respiratory complaints.
      • Someone complains of eye or skin irritation.
      • The presence of any substance or container larger than is typical for household use of known or suspected hazardous material.

    Additional Considerations

    • It's possible to require respiratory protection due to sensor readings, while still safe for personnel to exchange their turnout coat for a long-sleeved shirt.

      If there are insufficient resources, either meters or personnel, to implement these procedures, personnel must not be allowed to downgrade their respiratory protection.

    • This document should be used in conjunction with MCFRS Policy 26-06AMll (Respiratory Protection), FCGO 16-07 (Respiratory Protection/Cancer Risk Reduction) and the Fire Overhaul Risk Management self-study program produced by Assistant Chief Charles Bailey.

    • Additional training materials are provided in Quicklinks under the Human Resources Division tab within the Safety dropdown selection.

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    Montgomery County Fire Chief's General Order PDF

    Description

    This quiz assesses your understanding of respiratory protection requirements for firefighters in hazardous environments. Focus is placed on the use of Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE), minimum PPE guidelines, and rehab area regulations. Ensure you are familiar with the protocols to maintain safety during operations.

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