Ch 12 pg 344-348

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is the primary reason for making long, narrow strips perpendicular to the corrugations when cutting insulation?

To open as many valleys in the decking as possible (correct)

To minimize damage to the surrounding structure

To facilitate quicker access to the hose streams

To increase the fire's airflow and spread

How should you initially approach creating insulation cuts in the decking?

By pulling up a large section at once to gain visibility

By making endless small cuts without a plan

By first pulling up a small section to assess the corrugation direction (correct)

By cutting randomly to expedite fire containment

What strategy is implied for cutting insulation to manage fire spread effectively?

Cutting in the same direction as the corrugations for efficiency

Cutting ahead of the fire to intercept its path (correct)

Creating a series of circular cuts to confuse the fire

Making cuts late to limit fire exposure

Which of the following actions should be avoided when dealing with insulation cuts in corrugated decking?

Making cuts that mimic the corrugation direction Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of cooling the bottom of the frying pan during a fire situation?

To stop the production of flammable gases Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to recognize the speed of fire spread across the corrugations?

It determines the effectiveness of the insulation cut strategy Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action if there is not heavy fire in the contents below during firefighting?

Cut through the insulation to expose the burning tar Signup and view all the answers

Why is it not desirable to cut through the metal deck when making insulation cuts?

It is unnecessary as exposing the insulation is sufficient Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following methods should be employed by firefighters on the roof during a fire response?

Cut through the insulation and expose the burning tar Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant benefit of using 21 1/2 in. hose streams in high ceiling structures?

They adequately cool the roof deck and prevent total destruction. Signup and view all the answers

In a fire response situation, which component is crucial to control flammability in a frying pan scenario?

Cooling the pan's bottom to handle flammable gas production Signup and view all the answers

Why may a fire occur in a fully sprinklered building despite the installation of sprinklers?

Metal deck fires can travel above the sprinklers' level. Signup and view all the answers

What is an essential precaution when dealing with a metal deck roof fire?

Taking care to avoid falling through any openings is critical. Signup and view all the answers

In which type of structures is the use of large hose streams most beneficial?

High ceiling structures like warehouses and big box stores. Signup and view all the answers

What role does ventilation play in firefighting within metal deck structures?

It helps maintain a tenable environment for firefighters. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary risk associated with lightweight construction techniques in renovated buildings?

They mislead firefighters into using inappropriate tactics. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it critical for firefighters to identify renovations in buildings?

To adapt firefighting tactics based on structural changes. Signup and view all the answers

How should command officers respond to the presence of renovated lightweight structures?

Establish clear operational policies for response. Signup and view all the answers

What historical construction type is mentioned as being safe before renovation with lightweight materials?

Class 3 tenements. Signup and view all the answers

Why did the FDNY implement a policy against cutting metal deck roofs?

Due to the danger of early collapse for firefighters. Signup and view all the answers

Which action is recommended for firefighters concerning ongoing renovations?

Document renovations for future awareness. Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of not performing roof ventilation on a burning building?

Surrender of the structure is likely. Signup and view all the answers

What critical action should be taken before venting a metal deck roof?

Conduct a hose stream attack on adjacent areas. Signup and view all the answers

What can occur when fire exposes the underside of a metal deck roof?

Flammable gases can distill from heated materials. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best describes the nature of the fire under a metal deck roof?

It can escalate quickly without major visible signs beneath. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to protect roof supports during firefighting operations?

Cool the unprotected steel joists adjacent to the fire area. Signup and view all the answers

What is the ultimate goal when managing a fire involving a metal deck roof?

To ensure firefighters' safety while extinguishing the fire. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of using elevating platforms during fire operations?

To provide a steady work platform and means of water application Signup and view all the answers

When assessing a structure after knocking down a fire, what is the recommended approach?

Proceed slowly while ensuring total window ventilation and maximum lighting Signup and view all the answers

What precaution should be taken to avoid operating under potentially unsafe trusses?

Make examination openings into the truss loft as operations progress Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to operate with the minimum number of personnel in dangerous areas during fire operations?

To limit the risk of exposure and injury until the scene is deemed safe Signup and view all the answers

What role do Computer-aided dispatching systems (CADS) play in fire operations?

They generate reminders of a building's historical trusses for safety assessments Signup and view all the answers

When should aggressive interior operations cease during a fire in a lightweight truss roof building?

When roof ventilation is impossible due to the risk of collapse Signup and view all the answers

What should a firefighter assess to determine if offensive operations are justified?

Whether heavy fire has penetrated the structural elements Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary guideline regarding firefighter safety when there are potential civilian life hazards?

A rapid entry should be made if victims are believed to be savable Signup and view all the answers

Under what conditions should a firefighter avoid risking their lives during firefighting operations?

If there are no savable victims present in the building Signup and view all the answers

What tactical method should be utilized when approaching a fire in a structure where interior operations pose significant risks?

Utilizing exterior hose streams and approaches to the victims’ locations Signup and view all the answers

Why should firefighters avoid lingering in a building during a firefighting operation?

The structural integrity of the building can rapidly deteriorate Signup and view all the answers

What approach should be taken if heavy fire is attacking the structural elements during a firefighting operation?

A new strategy must be adopted to ensure firefighter safety Signup and view all the answers

What is a key element in decision-making for firefighters when responding to potential life hazard situations?

The potential for saving lives versus firefighter safety Signup and view all the answers

Start __ stores over from the fire store in a row of attached stores

3 Signup and view all the answers

Opening up the buildings _____ and directing a stream into the truss loft may be quite useful

Sidewalls Signup and view all the answers

You may have to provide emergency ____ when examine under lightweight buildings

Lightweight Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Operations on Metal Deck Roofs

Firefighters are advised against operating on bar joist-supported metal deck roofs due to early collapse risks.
FDNY official policy since Spring 2001 prohibits cutting metal deck roofs, halting roof ventilation efforts.
Without ventilation, interior forces may be driven out, leading to potential building surrender, especially if over 50% is heavily involved.
Safe operations on metal roofs are possible through assessed fire involvement and coordinated fire attacks.
It’s crucial to cool exposed steel joists to prevent failure by using hoselines, starting attacks in areas adjacent to the fire.
Cutting roofs directly over the fire is dangerous; proper assessment and ventilation must be prioritized.
Metal deck fires can occur without direct exposure below, leading to rapid fire spread via heated tar and flammable gases above the insulation.
Firefighters must cool the underside of the roof to stop gas production and control the fire effectively.

Strategies for Addressing Metal Deck Fires

Minimize roof damage by making small insulation cuts (2x2 ft) to gauge the direction of corrugations first.
Create long, narrow cuts perpendicular to corrugations to access fire paths and stop its spread.
Large 21 1/2 inch hose streams are effective for high-ceiling properties like warehouses where metal deck fires can occur, even in sprinklered buildings.
Always ensure ventilation is in place to maintain a safe environment for firefighters in case of roof fires or fires in contents below.

Hazards in Renovated Buildings

Renovated buildings often use lightweight construction techniques, which can mislead firefighters regarding structural integrity.
Firefighters should identify and document lightweight construction during renovations, ensuring communication with all responding units.
Command officers must create policies aimed at operations in structures that have undergone renovations, acknowledging the hidden dangers of lightweight elements.

Operational Considerations in Occupied Structures

If roof ventilation is impossible due to collapse fears, interior operations must also be reevaluated for safety.
Decisions about risk vs. potential civilian life saving are critical; determine if fire has breached structural voids.
Offensive operations may be justified if the fire is contained without void penetration, but strategic withdrawal is needed if heavy fire threatens structural elements.

After Fire Control Measures

Post-knockdown, careful structural assessments are essential; total window ventilation and lighting aid evaluations.
Create examination openings in the truss loft gradually, using minimum personnel until the situation is deemed safe.
Emergency shoring is critical for ensuring stability after identifying potential hazards.
Computer-aided dispatching systems serve as valuable resources for details about building structures over time.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

This chapter discusses the critical decisions surrounding firefighter operations on lightweight buildings, specifically focusing on metal deck roofs. It addresses the risks of early collapse and the implications of the FDNY's policy change regarding roof ventilation. Understanding these concepts is vital for ensuring the safety of firefighters during operations.