Fire officer handbook of tactics chapter 19

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Questions and Answers

What is a primary factor contributing to the rapid fire spread in buildings under construction or demolition?

  • The limited availability of combustible materials.
  • The strict enforcement of fire safety regulations.
  • The open design and lack of fire barriers. (correct)
  • The presence of fully operational sprinkler systems.

Why might standard fire suppression tactics, such as attacking the lowest floor first, be ineffective in buildings under construction?

  • The rapid vertical fire spread can outpace the stream's reach. (correct)
  • The presence of firestopping materials quickly contains the fire.
  • The standard tactics are always effective regardless of building type.
  • The steam produced on the lower floors effectively extinguishes the fire above.

What is a key concern regarding the use of construction hoists during a fire in a building under construction?

  • All construction hoists are equally safe for transporting personnel.
  • The wind conditions have no effect on the safety of the hoists.
  • Construction hoists are always equipped with backup power systems.
  • Equipment hoists lack the safety features of passenger hoists. (correct)

What specific hazard does wrapping a building in tarpaulins or plastic sheeting during cold-weather concrete pouring pose?

<p>It can trap leaking liquefied petroleum (LP) gas, creating an explosive hazard. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why does the presence of asbestos abatement operations increase fire risk in buildings undergoing demolition or renovation?

<p>The area is typically sealed off with combustible materials and has limited openings. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical consideration regarding standpipe systems in buildings under construction?

<p>The standpipe riser should progress to within two floors of the highest level under construction. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do steel bracing cables pose a collapse hazard in buildings under construction?

<p>Even at moderate temperatures, steel cables can lose strength and cause collapse. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What makes post-tensioned concrete structures particularly vulnerable to collapse during the jacking phase of construction?

<p>The steel cables are tensioned and exposed to fire. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During the construction of poured-in-place reinforced concrete structures, when is the structure most vulnerable to collapse due to fire?

<p>During the first 48 hours after pouring, while the concrete is hardening. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What specific risk is associated with the wooden or fiberglass forms used in poured-in-place concrete construction?

<p>They are highly combustible and accelerate fire spread, especially in the early stages of curing. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is partial occupancy during construction a concern for firefighters?

<p>Unfinished floors may be used for storing combustible materials without fire protection. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a suggested safety measure regarding sprinkler systems in partially occupied buildings under construction?

<p>Forbid occupancy above levels where all fire protection systems are not fully operational. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the firefighter death rate at vacant building fires compared to occupied residential buildings?

<p>The firefighter death rate is 3–5 times higher. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does an empty square marking on a vacant building indicate, according to the FDNY system?

<p>The building is of normal structural stability, and normal interior operations may be conducted depending on the extent of fire. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does an 'X' in a box marking on a vacant building indicate, according to the FDNY system?

<p>Severe hazards, all firefighting should be done from the exterior. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters do if they encounter a standpipe system with the top of the riser left open?

<p>Recognize that the system is useless and find an alternative water supply. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What action should first-arriving units take at a fire in a building under construction or demolition before proceeding upward?

<p>Test the first-floor outlet for water. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason fireproof coatings are used on steel I-beams and columns in buildings?

<p>To protect the steel from the heat of a fire. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why should firefighters consider the sequence of stream operation when using elevating platform streams at buildings under construction?

<p>The sequence should be varied to cut off fire extension due to rapid vertical spread. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What hazard is created by vertically aligned openings like elevator shafts in buildings under construction?

<p>They can cause burning debris to rain down on firefighters below. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are structures missing floors or roofs more prone to collapse?

<p>The remaining structure lacks the bracing and support normally provided by those elements. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters be aware of regarding the guard around vertical openings like elevator shafts?

<p>Guards are often made of light wood or rope and can be easily removed by fire. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for turning off power to a construction site at the end of the workday?

<p>To prevent accidents and remove potential ignition sources. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of posting a fire watch during hazardous operations like welding or cutting on a construction site?

<p>To look for signs of hidden fire after the work is completed. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why should firefighters familiarize themselves with the site-specific conditions of buildings under construction?

<p>Work progresses rapidly, drastically altering site conditions. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During cold-weather construction, what risk is associated with using LP gas to fuel salamanders, tar kettles and torches?

<p>Leaks can accumulate in low-lying areas or be trapped by tarpaulins, creating an explosion hazard. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What action should be taken when fighting fires where LP cylinders are present?

<p>Use large streams from shielded locations. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What strategy can be implemented during the design of automatic sprinkler systems that can improve initial safety, allow greater flexibility for interior layouts, and save money over the construction period?

<p>Installing a basic loop with the sprinkler lines spaced only 10 ft apart (100 sq ft per head). (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the best course of action regarding buildings undergoing demolition?

<p>No firefighters’ lives should be risked in such circumstances. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are some strategies implemented to make vacant buildings safer for firefighters?

<p>Inspect and mark every vacant building to indicate to firefighters the hazards present. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does a box that has one line drawn diagonally through it indicate on a vacant building?

<p>A building with some serious hazards, such as holes in the floor, signaling that all operations should be conducted from the exterior if possible. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be prioritized in regard to partially occupied structures?

<p>The safety of the occupants above. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a fire department ladder is put up to the second floor of a building under construction, what is the likely status of the remaining ladders?

<p>The remaining ladders are in place. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How long does it take for concrete to reach its greatest load-carrying capacity?

<p>Approximately 28 days. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What temperature will steel lose strength at if fireproof coatings or membranes are missing?

<p>1,500°F (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

At what temperature do most cables fail under tension?

<p>800° (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant factor contributing to the increased risk of rapid fire spread in buildings under construction?

<p>Unlimited air supply due to the absence of windows and complete walls. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is the lack of fire-rated doors in a building under construction a significant concern for firefighters?

<p>They contribute to rapid fire spread by not containing the fire. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key consideration when using elevating platform streams on buildings under construction, renovation, or demolition?

<p>The streams may dislodge scaffolding and send debris showering down on surrounding areas. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What action should firefighters prioritize when addressing fires in areas where LP gas cylinders are present?

<p>Use large streams from shielded positions to cool the cylinders. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When fighting a fire in a building under renovation where asbestos abatement is in progress, what is a critical safety concern?

<p>The stability of the plywood and plastic-lined walls used to contain the asbestos. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In buildings under construction, what is a significant concern regarding the progression of standpipe systems?

<p>The standpipe riser and outlets should progress to within two floors of the highest level under construction. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the absence of floors or roofs in a building under construction contribute to structural instability?

<p>It removes the horizontal bracing that floors and roofs provide to walls. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is the absence of fireproof coatings on steel I-beams and columns a major concern during a fire?

<p>The steel will lose strength at approximately 1,500°F without the coatings. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical risk related to steel bracing cables in buildings under construction during a fire?

<p>Exposure to fire can cause the cables to fail, leading to collapse. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During post-tensioned concrete construction, when is the structure most vulnerable to collapse due to fire?

<p>During the jacking phase while the cables are exposed and tensioned. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary hazard associated with wooden or fiberglass forms used in poured-in-place concrete structures during a fire?

<p>They can act as fuel, leading to rapid fire spread and potential collapse. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why does the trend of allowing partial occupancy during construction pose challenges for firefighters?

<p>Lower floors may be unsprinklered and used for storing combustible construction materials. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In partially occupied buildings under construction, what measure can firefighters advocate for to enhance safety?

<p>Require automatic sprinklers to be operational on all floors below occupied floors. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the FDNY marking system for vacant buildings use an empty square to indicate?

<p>The building is of normal structural stability. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the FDNY marking system for vacant buildings, what does a box with one line drawn diagonally through it indicate?

<p>The building has some serious hazards, such as holes in the floor, and operations should be conducted from the exterior if possible. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Besides the FDNY marking system, what is one of the other systems used to mark vacant buildings?

<p>Paper signs with numbers marked on them taped to entrances. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Due to the presence of open valves, what action should first-arriving units take at a fire in a building under construction or demolition before proceeding upward?

<p>Test the first-floor outlet for water and ensure the riser is charged. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to be aware of the potential for steel bracing cables to fail, especially under fire conditions?

<p>Because their failure can lead to sudden and catastrophic collapse. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In buildings undergoing demolition, why is it critical to recognize that these structures might not behave like typical buildings?

<p>Because they may lack structural integrity and pose extreme risks to firefighters. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why might the sequence of stream operation to cut off fire extension need to vary when fighting fires in buildings under construction?

<p>Because the upward extension of fire may be so rapid that attacking the lower floor first will allow the fire to race right past the reach of the stream. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Besides rapid upward fire spread, what other danger do vertically aligned openings post to firefighters?

<p>Burning debris will rain down on firefighters attempting to make their way up through them. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How might a department more quickly, and more safely, access a fire that is within reach of their ladders?

<p>By making the initial access off of the department's ladders. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can firefighters know if they are entering a personnel hoist?

<p>The people hoist will always have a control position in the car. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Besides extreme fire spread due to open shafts and flammable materials, what is another great hazard to firefighters at a serious fire?

<p>Fall hazards. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Where can firefighters anticipate finding flammable liquids and gases in a building undergoing construction or demolition?

<p>Anywhere in the building. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When buildings are wrapped in tarpaulins to allow cement to cure in the cold, what action must you be cautious of?

<p>LP gas being heavier than air, collecting in low places, and creating an explosive mixture. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Under what conditions are structures that, when finished, would provide the greatest resistance to collapse, most vulnerable to collapse?

<p>Poured-in-place reinforced concrete structures during construction. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How long does it typically take for concrete to harden enough to be able to support its own weight?

<p>Approximately 48 hours. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In poured-concrete buildings, what is used to hold up the plywood mold?

<p>4x4 wooden posts. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

After the first 48 hours, how long will floors still be braced with 4x4s?

<p>16-20 days. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should the spacing of the initial requirement soon prove when occupancies begin constructing partition walls for offices, closets, and the like?

<p>That it would have been unsatisfactory. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What single recommendation ensures the safety of occupants during construction?

<p>Prohibit the use of any floor above the levels where all fire protection systems are not fully operational. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When is the firefighter death rate at vacant building fires the highest?

<p>More than 3–5 times that of fires in occupied residential buildings. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

After a series of tragedies at vacant buildings, what did the FDNY begin?

<p>A program to inspect and mark every vacant building in the city using a system to indicate the hazards present and what type of attack the firefighters should conduct. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

You cannot place total reliance on any type of marking to save your life. What will save your life while operating in these firefighter deathtraps?

<p>Caution. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

At what temperature does steel lose strength if fireproof coatings or membranes are missing?

<p>1500°F (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

At what temperature do most cables fail under tension, posing a significant collapse risk?

<p>800°F (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common ignition source present at construction sites that can lead to fires?

<p>Welding and cutting tools. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During firefighting operations in buildings under construction, what is a critical precaution to take when using elevating platform streams?

<p>Clear all personnel from areas in the streets below on the sides opposite the nozzle. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant concern regarding access to upper floors in buildings under construction after working hours?

<p>Construction ladders may be removed or incomplete. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What safety precaution should firefighters take when encountering LP gas cylinders at a construction site fire?

<p>Fight the fire with large streams from shielded locations. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical step to ensure fire protection systems are adequate in buildings under construction?

<p>Ensure the standpipe riser and outlets progress to within two floors of the highest level under construction. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant factor that makes buildings under construction more prone to structural failure during a fire?

<p>The lack of floors or roofs to provide bracing and support. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern regarding steel bracing cables in buildings under construction when exposed to fire?

<p>They fail readily, causing extensive collapse. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most significant collapse threat in poured-in-place reinforced concrete structures under construction?

<p>The failure of wooden or fiberglass forms supporting wet concrete. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key consideration when dealing with partially occupied structures under construction?

<p>Lower floors may be used for storage of construction materials and be unsprinklered. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In partially occupied buildings under construction, what is a proactive measure that firefighters can advocate for to enhance safety?

<p>Ensuring automatic sprinklers are operational on all floors below occupied floors. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be assumed if first-arriving units find no water at the first-floor outlet in a building under construction or demolition?

<p>The riser is dry and numerous valves will be open. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What action should firefighters prioritize when addressing fires in areas where asbestos abatement is in progress?

<p>Use extreme caution due to the creation of an extremely combustible space with limited openings. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If the sequence of stream operation needs to vary at a building under construction, demolition, or renovation, which floor should you begin to hit first?

<p>The highest floor first and progress downward (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Besides being a means for the rapid upward spread of fire, what other danger do vertical openings present to firefighters?

<p>Burning debris from the fire floor will rain down on firefighters attempting to make their way up through them (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If the fire is within reach of department ladders during a construction fire, what would be a quicker and safer method to extinguishing the fire?

<p>Making initial access off the department ladders (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When a construction elevator has a control position in the car, what does that signify?

<p>The operator will ride up with you (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When concrete of any age is exposed to a heavy fire, what is it subject to?

<p>Spalling (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does installing a basic, exposed-pipe sprinkler system provide?

<p>Greater flexibility for interior layouts (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the most dangerous building to fight a fire in the United States?

<p>A vacant building (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Building Fires - Construction/Renovation

Fires in these buildings present unique challenges due to structure, fire load, and operations.

Fire Hazards - Construction Sites

Combustible materials like lumber, adhesives, and fuels, coupled with ignition sources like tools and heating units.

Absent Fire Protection

Sprinklers, standpipes, and fire doors may be absent or non-operational during construction.

Fire Prevention - Construction

Turning off power and posting a fire watch near hazardous operations.

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Common Fire Causes

Broken fuel lines or heaters placed near combustibles.

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Vertical Fire Spread

Large open spaces, unprotected vertical openings (elevator shafts).

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Fire Control Advantages

Rapid ventilation and hose streams can sweep large areas.

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Elevated Platform - Priority

Start at the highest floor, due to rapid vertical fire spread.

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Large Streams - Precautions

Clear personnel from areas below the nozzle, avoid dislodging shoring.

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Vertical Opening Hazards

Light wood or rope guards around vertical openings.

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Construction Access

Wooden construction ladders.

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Construction Hoist Safety

Hoists for people which have a control position in the car and labels for passenger use.

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Flammable Material Hazards

Flammable gases (oxygen, acetylene, MAPP) and liquids; LP gas.

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LP Gas Explosions

Canvas tarpaulins or plastic sheeting.

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Asbestos Abatement

Asbestos must be removed before demolition, creating combustible spaces.

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Standpipe System - Keeping up

Standpipe risers should go to within two floors of the highest level under construction.

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Standpipe Systems

Often dry and nonautomatic.

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Check Hydration

Test the first-floor outlet for water.

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Standpipe Failures

Open riser tops and closed sectional valves.

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Structural Failure Factors

Lack of floors/roofs, missing fireproof coatings, steel bracing cables.

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Steel Protection

Coating protects steel from heat.

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Steel Cables

Exposure to fire can cause extensive collapse.

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Tensioning Cables

The high-strength steel cables are laid in the form of about-to-be poured floors.

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Unhardened Concrete

Heavy, has almost no strength, and is vulnerable during the first 48 hours.

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Concrete Support System

Plywood and 4×4 posts used for support.

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Collapsed Cement

Dislodged posts can cause collapse.

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Occupancy vs. Construction

Allowing buildings to be partially occupied while work is in progress.

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Open Doors

Blocked open to facilitate material passage.

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Fire Protection

A matter of installing a basic, exposed-pipe sprinkler system.

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Vacant Building Dangers

Vacant buildings are firefighter traps due to structural issues and rapid fire spread.

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Prioritize Life Safety

No firefighters’ lives should be risked.

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Vacant Building - Empty Square

The building is of normal structural stability.

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Vacant Building - Diagonal Line

A building with serious hazards where operations should be exterior if possible.

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Vacant Building - Severe Hazards

A building with severe hazards where all firefighting should be done from the exterior.

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Study Notes

Fires in Buildings Under Construction, Renovation, or Demolition

  • Fires in buildings under construction, renovation, or demolition present unique challenges and often result in substantial losses and firefighter casualties.
  • Conditions in these buildings are conducive to fast-spreading fires due to exposed combustibles, ignition sources, and lack of fire protection.
  • Combustibles include lumber, flooring, roofing, wall assemblies, boxes, sawdust, refuse, scraps, adhesives, sealants, and flammable materials such as kerosene or propane.
  • Ignition sources include welding and cutting tools, portable heating units, temporary wiring, and controlled fires of scrap lumber.
  • The absence of fire protection such as sprinklers, standpipes, and fire doors further exacerbates the risk.

Buildings Under Construction

  • Major fires in buildings under construction are not common due to ignition sources being present only during work hours.
  • Power is typically turned off at the end of the workday, reducing potential ignition sources.
  • Fire watches are often posted near hazardous operations like cutting or welding.
  • Accidents like broken fuel lines or carelessness such as placing heaters near combustibles are common causes of fires.
  • Site inspections are essential to identify and address hazards due to rapidly changing conditions.

Hazards and Strategies

  • Lack of fire walls until late in construction exposes the entire structure.
  • Large penetrations and unprotected vertical openings facilitate rapid vertical fire spread.
  • Openings also allow for rapid ventilation and hose streams to sweep large areas.
  • Elevating platforms are effective for delivering high-volume streams to knock down entire floor areas.
  • Personnel should be cleared from areas below and opposite the nozzle due to the potential for debris.
  • Large-caliber streams can dislodge scaffolding or shoring, causing collapse.
  • In wide-open buildings, attacking the upper floors first can cut off fire extension.

Vertical Openings and Access Routes

  • Vertical openings pose a hazard to firefighters, especially in low-light conditions.
  • OSHA regulations require these openings to be protected, but guards may be inadequate.
  • Burning debris can fall through aligned openings, endangering firefighters.
  • Access to upper floors may be limited to construction ladders, which can be hazardous.
  • Fire department ladders are often quicker and safer for initial access.
  • Hoists, similar to elevators, may be available but should be used with caution.
  • Personnel hoists have controls inside the car and are designed for passenger use.
  • Equipment hoists lack controls and safety devices and should not be used for personnel transport.

Flammable Materials and Asbestos Abatement

  • Be aware of flammable liquids and gases such as oxygen, acetylene, and LP gas.
  • Large quantities of LP gas may be present for heating purposes.
  • Buildings may be wrapped in tarpaulins or plastic sheeting, trapping LP gas leaks.
  • Fires near LP cylinders should be fought with large streams from shielded locations.
  • Demolition of older buildings may involve asbestos abatement, creating combustible spaces with limited openings.
  • These areas often have containment walls and decontamination chambers.

Fire Protection Systems

  • Sprinkler systems may be among the last items completed, while standpipe risers and outlets should be within two floors of the highest level under construction.
  • Standpipe systems are often nonautomatic dry systems during construction and may only have a fire department connection (FDC).
  • Ensure the FDC is visible, unobstructed, and familiar to fire personnel and be prepared to pump into first-floor standpipe outlets.
  • Floor outlet valves may be left open, causing water to pour out when the FDC is charged.
  • Check the first-floor outlet for water before proceeding upward.
  • Open tops of risers or closed sectional valves can render the system useless.
  • Sectional valves are typically OS&Y style and found every 150 ft of building height.

Structural Problems

  • Buildings under construction are more prone to structural failure due to missing floors, roofs, and fireproof coatings.
  • Lack of lateral support from completed floors or roofs can destabilize walls.
  • Missing fireproof coatings expose steel to rapid temperature increases, leading to failure, with steel strength diminishing around 1,500°F.
  • Steel bracing cables, used for temporary support, are susceptible to fire damage.
  • Exposure to fire can cause cables to fail, leading to extensive collapse.
  • Immediate cooling or evacuation is necessary when cables are exposed to fire.

Post-tensioned Concrete and Poured-in-place Concrete

  • Tensioning cables in post-tensioned concrete can fail if exposed to fire during construction, potentially causing catastrophic collapse.
  • Poured-in-place reinforced concrete structures are vulnerable to collapse during the first 48 hours after pouring before the concrete hardens.
  • Forms made of wood or fiberglass add to the fire load during the 48 hour period.
  • The weight of wet concrete combined with flammable formwork creates a significant collapse hazard.
  • Failure of support posts can lead to progressive collapse of multiple floors.
  • After 28 days, the concrete reaches its greatest load-carrying capacity.
  • Newer construction methods use aluminum posts and fiberglass forms.

Spalling and Partially Occupied Structures

  • Concrete exposed to heavy fire is subject to spalling, where chunks separate explosively due to steam expansion
  • Cooling heated concrete reduces the chances of spalling which can take large amounts of water.
  • Partial occupancy during construction poses great challenges due to storage of construction materials, lack of sprinklers, and blocked doors.
  • Rapid fire spread can trap occupants above.
  • Sprinkler systems should be operational on all floors below occupied floors.
  • Restrict occupancy above levels where all fire protection systems are not fully operational.

Buildings Undergoing Renovation and Demolition

  • Vacant buildings are especially dangerous with high firefighter death rates due to age, damage, removal of supports, and fire spread.
  • With no civilian life hazard, extreme risks in these buildings are not justified.
  • The building is essentially a pile of rubbish to be removed.
  • Attitude adjustment is needed; what looks like a building may not act like one.
  • FDNY marks vacant buildings to indicate hazards and attack strategies and an empty square indicates normal structural stability, while a box with a diagonal line indicates serious hazards.
  • A box with an "X" indicates severe hazards where only exterior attacks should be conducted.
  • Other jurisdictions use paper signs with numbers to indicate hazards.
  • Paper signs are tape to entrances may be easily destroyed by weather.
  • Caution is essential when operating in these buildings, regardless of markings.

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