CNG Vehicle Emergency Response: Fire Safety

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Questions and Answers

What is critical for all crews to do when responding to incidents involving Energy Storage Systems (ESS) with Lithium-ion batteries?

Follow department policy and train all staff (correct)

Ventilate the area

Evacuate the building immediately

Contact manufacturer technical support immediately

What should emergency responders do upon arriving at a commercial or utility installation with an ESS incident?

Try to control power to the unit

Contact manufacturer technical support first

Enter the structure to assess the situation

Follow pre-plan and do not enter the structure (correct)

What is a critical consideration when responding to residential ESS incidents?

Use a fire extinguisher to put out the fire

Cut power to the unit

Control power to the unit, ventilate the area, and protect exposures (correct)

Evacuate the building immediately

What should emergency responders do when responding to ESS incidents, in addition to following department policy?

Contact manufacturer technical support as soon as possible Signup and view all the answers

Why are compromised Lithium-ion batteries in ESS Systems dangerous?

They can produce flammable gases with risk of de-agration and fire Signup and view all the answers

What is a common application of Energy Storage Systems (ESS)?

Renewable energy systems, like wind and photovoltaic systems Signup and view all the answers

What is a key consideration for emergency responders when responding to ESS incidents?

The specific response guidelines of the manufacturer Signup and view all the answers

Where can Energy Storage Systems (ESS) be installed?

In both single-family homes and large commercial and utility applications Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters do when responding to a burning ESS incident?

Wear full personal protective equipment, including SCBA with face-piece, and follow a defensive operations strategy Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended strategy for mitigating the spread of hazards in an ESS incident?

Applying water spray to neighboring battery enclosures and exposures Signup and view all the answers

What should be included in a department's policy or standard response guideline for ESS incidents?

Mitigation strategies for thermal runaway events Signup and view all the answers

Why should firefighters avoid applying water directly to the affected enclosure?

Because the fire is located behind several layers of steel material Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of a Lithium-ion battery in thermal runaway or off-gassing?

Creation of hazardous atmospheres Signup and view all the answers

What may be necessary to fully isolate a PV system in an ESS incident?

Shutting off multiple disconnects, including circuit breakers and knife-blade disconnects Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in the emergency shut-down procedure for a CNG vehicle?

Set the parking brake Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended strategy for firefighters responding to an ESS incident?

Defensive, non-intervention strategy Signup and view all the answers

Why should firefighters shut off the unit/system by operating visible disconnects or E-stops?

To isolate any PV system and protect exposures Signup and view all the answers

What will happen if a fire is not extinguished quickly on a CNG vehicle?

The pressure relief valves will activate, releasing all the gas from the cylinders Signup and view all the answers

Why should water not be applied directly to CNG cylinders during a fire?

It will prevent the pressure relief valves from activating Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if the CNG cylinders are involved in the fire?

Allow the fire to burn while watching for secondary hazards Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of a pressure relief valve activating on a CNG vehicle?

A jet fire that may go out and re-ignite several times Signup and view all the answers

How should you approach a CNG vehicle that is on fire?

At a 45-degree angle Signup and view all the answers

What should you prioritize after the fire has been extinguished on a CNG vehicle?

Rescue of occupants and protection of exposures Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you encounter a CNG vehicle that is still pressurized after a fire?

Proceed with caution and prioritize rescues and exposure protection Signup and view all the answers

What is the preferred agent for responding to lithium-ion battery fires?

Water spray Signup and view all the answers

What should response crews do upon arriving at a lithium-ion battery fire scene?

Take a defensive stance toward the system Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to maintain a safe distance from the unit involved in a lithium-ion battery fire?

To prevent injury from explosion Signup and view all the answers

What should be applied to adjacent battery enclosures and exposures during a lithium-ion battery fire?

Water spray Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of pre-incident plans in energy storage system response?

To provide rapid response resources for the specific area and region Signup and view all the answers

What should response crews do if a fire has not developed and only smoke is visible?

Take a defensive stance towards the system Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential risk associated with compromised lithium-ion batteries in ESS Systems?

Production of significant amounts of flammable gases Signup and view all the answers

What should be the first step in responding to a residential ESS incident?

Control power to the unit Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical consideration for emergency responders when responding to ESS incidents?

Following department policy Signup and view all the answers

What is a common application of Energy Storage Systems (ESS)?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended strategy for responding to ESS incidents in commercial or utility installations?

Follow pre-plan and do not enter the structure Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to follow department policy when responding to ESS incidents?

To ensure safety of responders Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of Energy Storage Systems (ESS)?

They come in many shapes and sizes Signup and view all the answers

What should emergency responders do in all cases of ESS incidents?

Contact manufacturer technical support immediately Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters do when responding to a burning ESS incident?

Apply water spray to neighboring battery enclosures and exposures Signup and view all the answers

Why should firefighters avoid applying water directly to the affected enclosure?

It will only delay the eventual combustion of the entire unit Signup and view all the answers

What should be included in a department's policy or standard response guideline for ESS incidents?

Mitigation strategies for thermal runaway events Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters wear when responding to an ESS incident?

Full personal protective equipment, including SCBA with face-piece Signup and view all the answers

What can happen if a Lithium-ion battery is in thermal runaway or off-gassing?

It will create a hazardous atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What may be necessary to fully isolate a PV system in an ESS incident?

Shutting off multiple disconnects, including circuit breakers and knife-blade disconnects Signup and view all the answers

Why should firefighters shut off the unit/system by operating visible disconnects or E-stops?

To prevent the eventual combustion of the entire unit Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended strategy for mitigating the spread of hazards in an ESS incident?

Applying water spray to neighboring battery enclosures and exposures Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of reading smoke in firefighting?

To make better tactical choices Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of losing the ability to read smoke?

Firefighters become less effective in their response Signup and view all the answers

What is the author's profession?

Fire service author and lecturer Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of recognizing attributes quickly?

Firefighters can make better tactical choices Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between reading smoke and tactics?

Reading smoke helps inform tactics Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the 'box'?

To vent the fire Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to prioritize reading smoke?

To prevent firefighter injuries or deaths Signup and view all the answers

What is the author's recommendation for firefighters?

Make reading smoke a priority Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a bump test on a portable gas detector?

To verify the functionality of the sensor(s) and alarms Signup and view all the answers

What was the result of the confined space legislation in the United States and UK?

Widespread use of portable gas detection instruments in industrial environments Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of 1993 and 1997 in the context of confined space legislation?

The years when confined space legislation was enacted in the US and UK Signup and view all the answers

What is the limitation of bump testing?

It is not designed to measure the accuracy of the gas detector Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the 1 billion+ datalogged readings?

The amount of data used for analysis in the white paper Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of calibration prior to use on large fleets of gas detectors?

To ensure the accuracy of the gas detector Signup and view all the answers

What is the economic implication of calibration prior to use on large fleets of gas detectors?

It increases the economic burden Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the 27,000+ gas detectors mentioned in the text?

The number of gas detectors monitored by the analysis Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the pressure relief devices (PRDs) in a CNG fuel system?

To vent system pressure Signup and view all the answers

Where are CNG fuel cylinders typically located?

Behind the cab or frame rails Signup and view all the answers

What is the flammable range of CNG?

5%-15% Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the quarter turn shut-off valve in a CNG fuel system?

To shut off the fuel supply Signup and view all the answers

What is the ignition temperature of CNG?

1000°F Signup and view all the answers

What is the type of cylinder used in a CNG fuel system?

Type 3 or 4 Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of directing PRD Vents vertically up in CNG fuel systems?

To prevent gas from accumulating in enclosed spaces Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended procedure for emergency responders when dealing with damaged CNG vehicles and gas leaks?

Close the manual quarter turn valve at the Fuel Control Module, and then use a combustible gas meter to monitor for potential fuel leaks Signup and view all the answers

What is the characteristic of CNG that allows it to be detected in the event of a leak?

It has a strong smell Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of a pressure relief valve activating on a CNG vehicle?

The CNG fuel will be vented to the atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What should emergency responders prioritize after the fire has been extinguished on a CNG vehicle?

Ensuring the scene is safe and secure Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of high-pressure fuel lines in CNG fuel systems?

To transport CNG fuel from the cylinder to the engine Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal when responding to a CNG vehicle fire that is not extinguished quickly?

To allow the fire to burn while watching for secondary hazards Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if the CNG cylinders are not involved in the fire?

Use normal response tactics to extinguish the fire Signup and view all the answers

What happens when a pressure relief valve (PRD) activates on a CNG vehicle?

The PRD releases all the gas from the cylinder to the atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

Why should you approach a CNG vehicle that is on fire at a 45-degree angle?

To avoid being directly in the path of the jet fire Signup and view all the answers

What should you prioritize after the fire has been extinguished on a CNG vehicle?

Affecting any immediate rescues and protecting exposures Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of water being applied directly to CNG cylinders during a fire?

The PRDs will be prevented from activating and the cylinders may rupture Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you encounter a CNG vehicle that is still pressurized after a fire?

Approach the vehicle cautiously and watch for secondary hazards Signup and view all the answers

Why should water not be used to cool the CNG cylinders during a fire?

Water will prevent the PRDs from activating Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

CNG Vehicle Emergency Response (Fire)

In case of a fire, attempt an emergency shut-down procedure: set the parking brake, turn off the engine, turn off the electrical system, and turn off the CNG fuel.
If the fire is not extinguished quickly, the pressure relief valves will activate, releasing all the gas from the cylinders to the atmosphere.
Do not apply water directly to CNG cylinders and PRDs, as this will prevent the PRDs from activating and can result in a catastrophic cylinder failure.
If the CNG cylinders are not involved in the fire, the fire on the vehicle may be extinguished with normal response tactics.
If fire is impinging on the CNG cylinders, the cylinders are on fire, or if the fire is fueled by an active leak, do not approach the vehicle. Allow the fire to burn while watching for secondary hazards.

Safety Precautions

When approaching the vehicle, do so at a 45-degree angle.
After the fire has been extinguished, there may still be pressurized cylinders in place.

Recommended Fire Department Response to Energy Storage Systems (ESS)

Events involving ESS Systems with Lithium-ion batteries can be extremely dangerous.
All crews must follow department policy and train on response to incidents involving ESS.
Compromised lithium-ion batteries can produce significant amounts of flammable gases with potential risk of deflagration and fire.

Residential Setting Response

Control power to the unit.
Ventilate the area.
Protect exposures.
Contact manufacturer technical support as soon as possible.

Pre-Incident Planning

Each manufacturer has specific response guidelines that should be made available to first responders prior to activation.
Pre-incident planning should include guidelines for mitigation of the event, which may include a defensive operation.

Incident Actions

Allow the battery to burn itself out, while applying water spray to neighboring battery enclosures and exposures to further mitigate the spread of hazards.
Do not apply water directly to the affected enclosure, as this will not stop the thermal runaway event.
Firefighters must wear full personal protective equipment, including SCBA with face-piece.
If identified in pre-incident plan, shut off the unit/system by operating any visible disconnects or E-stops.

Incident Actions

In pre-incident situations, allow the battery to burn out and apply water spray to neighboring battery enclosures and exposures to prevent the spread of hazards.
Modify or establish department policy or standard response guidelines to ESS incidents, including guidelines for mitigation and management of the event.

Mitigation Strategies

Apply water spray to neighboring battery enclosures and exposures to prevent the spread of hazards, rather than directly to the burning unit.
Wear full personal protective equipment, including SCBA with face-piece, when responding to ESS incidents.
Identify and shut off the unit/system by operating any visible disconnects or E-stops, if identified in the pre-incident plan.
Isolate any PV system and protect exposures by shutting off multiple disconnects, including circuit breakers, knife-blade disconnects, or other switches.

Hazards and Risks

Lithium ion batteries in thermal runaway or off-gassing can create hazardous atmospheres.
Compromised lithium-ion batteries can produce significant amounts of flammable gases with potential risk of de-agration and fire.

Response Guidelines

Follow department policy and train all staff on response to incidents involving ESS.
For commercial or utility installations, follow pre-plan and do not enter the structure.
For residential setting responses, control power to the unit, ventilate the area, and protect exposures.
Contact manufacturer technical support as soon as possible in all cases.

Pre-Incident Planning

Ensure pre-incident plans cover location, type, disconnect, and other contact information.
Plans should provide rapid response resources for company officers specific to the area and region, including OEM emergency contact information.
Maintain a safe distance from the unit involved (at least 300’ for large commercial systems).

General Guidelines

Defensive firefighting is recommended, with water spray as the preferred agent for response to lithium-ion battery fires (lithium-ion is not water reactive).
If a fire has not developed and only smoke is visible, take a defensive stance toward the system and be prepared to apply water spray.

Bump Testing and Gas Detection

A "bump" test of a portable gas detector is performed to verify the functionality of sensors and alarms by briefly exposing the instrument to a known concentration of target gas(es) and verifying that the instrument responds accordingly.
Data analysis is powered by 1 billion+ datalogged readings, 4.7 million+ bump test records, 2.5 million+ alarm events, 1.1 million+ calibration records, 27,000+ gas detectors, and 1,100+ customer sites.

Fire Safety and Reading Smoke

Reading smoke is not a tactic but a tool to help make better tactical choices, allowing us to be more "intellectually aggressive" as opposed to arbitrary aggressiveness.
The ability to read smoke has been lost in the emergency service world, but it's essential for predicting fire behavior, deciding tactics, and preventing firefighter injuries or deaths.

CNG Fuel System Components

CNG fuel system components include cylinders, manual shut-off valves, pressure relief devices (PRDs), fill receptacles, and quarter-turn shut-off valves.
Fuel cylinders are typically found on the roof, rear hatch, or behind the cab or frame rails, and are Type 3 or 4, pressure-contained with composite wrap, with no metal visible.
PRDs are designed to vent system pressure and are thermally activated to vent gas between 212°F to 220°F (100°C to 104°C).
High-pressure fuel lines are made of stainless steel tubing or flexible high-pressure hose, and are labeled with a yellow identifying tag.

CNG Vehicle Emergency Response

In the event of an emergency, the procedure is to set the parking brake, turn off the engine, turn off the electrical system, and turn off the CNG fuel.
If safe to do so, close the manual quarter-turn valve at the Fuel Control Module, and cylinder valves, and eliminate all sources of ignition.
Use a combustible gas meter to monitor for potential fuel leaks, and open vehicle doors to introduce fresh air to prevent natural gas accumulation.
If the vehicle is indoors, open building windows and doors to allow ventilation and avoid turning on any lights or electronics that may create a spark.

CNG Vehicle Emergency Response (Fire)

Attempt the emergency shut-down procedure, and if a fire is not extinguished quickly, the pressure relief valves will activate, releasing all the gas from the cylinders to the atmosphere.
Do not apply water directly to CNG cylinders and PRDs because it will prevent the PRDs from activating and can result in a catastrophic cylinder failure.
If the fire is not involving the CNG cylinders, the fire on the vehicle may be extinguished with normal response tactics, but if the fire is impinging on the CNG cylinders, the cylinders are on fire, or if the fire is fueled by an active leak, do not approach the vehicle.

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Description

Learn about the emergency response procedures in case of a fire in a CNG vehicle, including shutdown procedures and safety precautions. Understand the role of pressure relief valves and the importance of not using water to extinguish fires near CNG cylinders.