Gross Decontamination Procedures

Questions and Answers

What must crews do before leaving the incident scene to minimize toxin transfer back to the fire station?

Perform Gross Decon processes (correct)

Reset the equipment in the vehicle

Change into clean uniforms at the scene

Leave contaminated gear in the vehicle

Which procedure is NOT recommended for handling contaminated PPE?

Performing a thorough cleaning before packing

Bagging it using Fire Rescue approved Decon Bags

Twisting and taping the Decon Bag closed

Loading it directly into the vehicle cab (correct)

When should a crew go through the Gross Decon process again while on assignment?

Before any new assignment related to fire suppression

When requested by the Incident Commander

After completing an overhaul (correct)

After performing a secondary search (correct)

Which of the following equipment is recommended to be thoroughly cleaned on the scene?

SCBA packs and cylinders Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to prevent off-gassing of bunker gear in the vehicle cab?

Seal the Decon Bag properly Signup and view all the answers

What type of brushes are suggested for cleaning equipment?

Soft bristle scrub brushes Signup and view all the answers

What should be used to clean radios according to the guidelines?

Fire Rescue approved wipes Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a step in the Gross Decon process before leaving the scene?

Load all gear into the vehicle immediately Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended time frame to take a shower after exposure to contaminants?

Within 1 hour Signup and view all the answers

Which practice helps to improve the drying times of cleaned bunker gear?

Hanging them on a rack Signup and view all the answers

How often should vehicle cabs be cleaned and decontaminated to reduce secondary exposures?

On a regular basis Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the key benefits of using fans in the cleaning process of PPE?

To facilitate off-gassing of PPE Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended first step after decontaminating PPE?

Change into clean daily station wear Signup and view all the answers

What is essential to do before a unit can go out-of-service?

Release any move-up unit(s) Signup and view all the answers

What should be prioritized when repositioning PPE after cleaning?

Quick access for rapid turn-out Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following steps is NOT part of the gross decontamination process?

Adequately storing PPE for later use Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the Gross Decontamination process outlined in the standard operating guideline?

To reduce firefighter exposure to toxic substances Signup and view all the answers

Which type of incidents require the use of Gross Decontamination procedures according to the guideline?

Structure fires, wildland fires, and vehicle fires Signup and view all the answers

Who has the authority to enforce the guidelines for Post Fire Gross Decontamination?

The Fire Rescue Administrator Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT included in the Gross Decontamination process as per the guideline?

Decontamination for residential cleaning Signup and view all the answers

Which NFPA regulations are referenced in the guideline regarding Post Fire Gross Decontamination?

NFPA 1851, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974 Signup and view all the answers

What should Fire Rescue personnel prioritize during the Gross Decontamination process?

Protecting their health and safety Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about PPE handling is correct during a Gross Decontamination process?

PPE inspection and cleaning are both essential Signup and view all the answers

What type of fires must have Gross Decontamination procedures applied after exposure?

Any fire incident where combustion occurs Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Post Fire Gross Decontamination

Objective is to remove toxic particulates from equipment and PPE after exposure to combustion products, reducing firefighter exposure and promoting long-term health.
Procedures adhere to NFPA 1851 standards and manufacturer recommendations.

Decontamination Steps for PPE

Implement thorough decontamination of PPE, including helmets, bunker gear, and SCBA, according to NFPA 1851.
Clean the vehicle cab to prevent secondary exposure during routine use.
Ensure vehicle readiness post-decontamination, enabling quick response.
Take a “shower within the hour” after exposure, and change into clean station wear.

Ready for Operation

Clean bunker gear should be hung on racks for improved drying and off-gassing.
Use fans to enhance the off-gassing process of PPE materials.
Position PPE appropriately to facilitate rapid turn-out during responses.

Maintaining Vehicle Cleanliness

All personnel must keep the vehicle cab clean to reduce secondary exposure risks.
Regular cleaning and decontamination of vehicle cabs are essential.

Reporting for Re-Assignment

Crews returning from Rehab must report ready for assignment.
If reassigned to high exposure tasks, crews must undergo the Gross Decon process again.

Procedure Upon Release from Scene

Conduct Gross Decon processes to keep vehicle cab clean before leaving the incident site.
Bag contaminated PPE (pants, coats, structural boots) in Fire Rescue approved Decon Bags, securing openings properly to minimize off-gassing.
Clean and scrub all other equipment on-site using approved soaps and tools, including soft bristle scrub brushes and Fire Rescue approved wipes for radios.

Personal Protective Equipment Exchange

The decontamination guideline applies to all Emergency Operations personnel engaged in firefighting activities, including structure, wildland, vehicle fires, and training scenarios.
Ensure contaminations are addressed systematically to uphold safety throughout responses.

Authority and Compliance

Supported by Fire Rescue Administrator and compliant with OSHA regulations and applicable NFPA standards.
Historical updates to the guideline include revisions and clerical changes, enhancing procedural clarity and effectiveness.

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Description

This quiz focuses on the thorough decontamination of personal protective equipment (PPE) as outlined in NFPA 1851 and the manufacturers' recommendations. It covers the essential steps required to ensure equipment readiness and personal hygiene for firefighters after exposure. Proper decontamination is crucial for maintaining safety standards and health.