Fundamentals of Fire Fighter Skills and Hazardous Materials Response PDF

CHAPTER 3 Personal Protective Equipment  Knowledge Objectives List the components of personal protective equipment (PPE). Explain the role of the fire fighter’s work clothing as part of the PPE ensemble. Describe the type of protection provided by structural firefighting PPE...

CHAPTER 3 Personal Protective Equipment  Knowledge Objectives List the components of personal protective equipment (PPE). Explain the role of the fire fighter’s work clothing as part of the PPE ensemble. Describe the type of protection provided by structural firefighting PPE. Explain how each design element of a fire helmet works to protect the head, face, and eyes.  Knowledge Objectives Explain why protective hoods are a part of structural firefighting PPE. Explain how each design element of a structural firefighting protective coat works to protect the upper body. Explain how each design element of structural firefighting protective pants works to protect the lower body. Describe how each design element of boots works to protect the feet.  Knowledge Objectives Describe how each design element of gloves works to protect the hands and wrist. Explain how a personal alert safety system (PASS) helps to ensure fire fighter safety. List the limitations of PPE. Describe the procedure for donning personal protective clothing. Describe the procedure for doffing personal protective clothing.  Knowledge Objectives Describe how to inspect the condition of PPE. Describe how to properly maintain PPE. Describe why thoroughly cleaning PPE immediately after it has been exposed to smoke or fire conditions is an important step in reducing your chance of developing cancer. Describe the specialized protective clothing required for vehicle extrication and wildland fires.  Knowledge Objectives List the respiratory hazards posed by smoke and fire. List the conditions that require respiratory protection or self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Describe the types of breathing apparatus. Describe the differences between open-circuit self-contained breathing apparatus and closed- circuit self-contained breathing apparatus.  Knowledge Objectives Describe the limitations of SCBA. Describe the physical and psychological limitations of an SCBA user. List and describe the major components of SCBA. Describe the devices on an SCBA that can assist the user in air management. Describe the pathway that air travels through an SCBA.  Knowledge Objectives Explain the breathing techniques used to conserve air supply. List the complete sequence of donning PPE. Describe the importance of SCBA inspections and SCBA operational testing. Explain how to inspect an SCBA to ensure that it is operation ready. Explain the procedures for refilling SCBA cylinders.  Skills Objectives Don approved personal protective clothing. Doff approved personal protective clothing. Don an SCBA from an apparatus seat mount. Don an SCBA from a compartment mount. Don an SCBA from a storage case using the over-the-head method. Don an SCBA from a storage case using the coat method. Don a face piece.  Skills Objectives Doff an SCBA. Perform a visible inspection of an SCBA. Perform an operational inspection of an SCBA. Replace an SCBA air cylinder. Replace an SCBA air cylinder on another fire fighter. Refill an SCBA air cylinder from a compressor or a cascade system. Clean an SCBA.  Introduction Two safety components used by fire fighters need special consideration. – Personal protective equipment (PPE) – Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) PPE protects fire fighters from heat and physical injury. SCBA provides respiratory protection for an established amount of time. PPE and SCBA used together enables fire fighters to enter smoky and toxic environments.  Personal Protective Equipment PPE is an essential component of a fire fighter’s safety system. Different PPE are designed for specific hazardous conditions. – An understanding of their designs, applications, and limitations is the responsibility of every fire fighter.  Work Clothing Low end of the PPE spectrum: normal street clothing or work uniforms Synthetic fabrics can melt at relatively low temperatures and cause severe burns, even when worn under PPE. Natural fibres are generally safer. Special synthetic fibres used in structural firefighting may have better resistance. NFPA 1975 defines criteria for selecting appropriate fabric for work uniforms.  Structural Firefighting PPE To be effective, entire ensemble must be worn. Enables fire fighters to work in areas with high temperatures and concentrations of toxic gases © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman.  Structural Firefighting PPE Can be worn with SCBA and PASS Designed to cover every inch of the body Must be cleaned, maintained, regularly inspected © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman.  Protection Provided Tough outer layer of coat and trousers Knees may be reinforced with pads for protection when crawling. Fluorescent/reflective trim adds visibility. Insulating layers protect the skin from high temperatures. A moisture barrier between the layers keeps liquids and vapours from reaching the skin. Helmet protects head from falling debris.  Protection Provided Face shield provides eye protection. Hood is fire retardant and covers exposed skin between collar and helmet. Gloves protect from heat, cuts, and abrasions. Boots protect from fire, moisture, punctures, and crushing injuries. Each item of PPE clothing is designed to overlap to ensure body is protected at all times.  Helmet According to NFPA 1971, each item must have a permanent label. – Manufacturer information – Usage limitations – Maintenance instructions © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman.  Helmet Must meet NFPA 1971 Standard Provides impact protection against falling objects Face and eye protection Often color-coded according to rank and © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman. function  Protective Hood Covers exposed skin Constructed of flame- resistant materials Some hoods include © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman. particulate protection. Worn over the edges of the face piece but under the helmet Structural Firefighting Protective Coat Three layers – Protective outer shell – Moisture barrier – Thermal barrier Flap provides secure double seal. Wristlets keep sleeves © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman. down. Drag rescue device Structural Firefighting Protective Pants Constructed to match coat Three-layer protective system Reinforced ankles and knees Should be large enough to don quickly and move © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman. easily  Boots Constructed of rubber or leather Must meet NFPA 1971 requirements Outer layer repels water and is flame- and cut-resistant. Inner liner adds © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman. thermal protection.  Gloves Protect from heat, liquid, vapours, cuts, and penetration Do not wring or twist wet gloves. You must become accustomed to © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman. performing skills wearing gloves.  Personal Alert Safety System Electronic device that sounds a loud signal if a fire fighter: © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman. – Is motionless for a set period – Activates it Can be separate or integrated into the SCBA unit  Additional PPE Approved goggles Intercom system Flexible ear plugs © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman. Hand light Radio Reflective vest  Limitations of PPE Tasks require energy and strength. Retains body heat and perspiration Limits mobility and range of motion Decreases normal © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman. sensory abilities Practise can help.  Donning and Doffing PPE Donning PPE must be done in a specific order to obtain maximum protection. – Do not don PPE inside the apparatus. To doff PPE, reverse the procedure used in getting dressed. – PPE should be cleaned and stored. – PPE should not be kept in living or sleeping areas or vehicles.  Inspection and Maintenance of PPE Check condition of PPE regularly. Repair worn or damaged PPE at once. Clean PPE when necessary. © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.  Inspection and Maintenance of PPE Make sure your PPE is dry before using it on the fire ground. Helmets Protective hoods and gloves – Repair or discard items with holes; even a small cut or opening can result in injury. Boots Do not store PPE in direct sunlight.  Specialized Protective Equipment Vehicle extrication – PPE is generally lighter and more flexible than structural firefighting PPE. – Latex gloves should be worn when providing patient treatment. – Eye protection also should be worn. – Proper cleaning is especially important because of the fluids encountered. – Always wear a high-visibility vest.  Specialized Protective Equipment Wildland fires – PPE must meet NFPA 1977. – Made of fire-resistant materials – Designed for comfort and maneuverability – Helmet, eye protection, gloves, and boots designed for comfort and sure footing – Structural gear is not designed for extended (wildland) firefighting.  Respiratory Protection An SCBA is both expensive and complicated; using one confidently requires practise. Fire fighters must be proficient in using an SCBA before they engage in interior fire suppression activities. The interior atmosphere of a burning building is considered to be immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH).  Respiratory Hazards of Fires Repetitive exposure to smoke may have negative health effects. Products of combustion – Particles – Vapours – Gases Carbon monoxide Hydrogen cyanide Phosgene  Respiratory Hazards of Fires: Oxygen Deficiency Normal air = 21% oxygen (19.5% or less is considered oxygen deficient). Oxygen level below 17 percent = dangerous Oxygen deficiency occurs in two ways. – The fire consumes large quantities of the available oxygen. – The fire produces large quantities of other gases, which decrease the oxygen concentration by displacing oxygen.  Respiratory Hazards of Fires: Increased Temperature Heat is a respiratory hazard. Inhaling the superheated gases produced by a fire can cause severe burns of the respiratory tract.  Other Toxic Environments Fire fighters will encounter toxic gases or oxygen-deficient atmospheres in many emergency situations, including: – Hazardous materials releases – Confined-space or below-grade structures Always approach the scene from a safe location. Take time to assess the scene and interpret clues.  Conditions That Require Respiratory Protection More deaths are caused by smoke inhalation than burns. SCBA must be used: – During overhaul until the air has been tested – Whenever toxic gases or an oxygen-deficient atmosphere is possible  Types of Breathing Apparatus: Supplied-Air Respirator Uses a hose line that is connected to air located outside the hazardous area Not used by fire fighters for structural firefighting © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman. User exhales through a one-way valve. Specialized operations  Types of Breathing Apparatus: Air-Purifying Respirator Designed to remove particulate matter or specified gases or vapours Used in industrial settings Not suitable for firefighting operations; does not supply oxygen Courtesy of Sperian Respiratory Protection.  Types of Breathing Apparatus: Powered Air-Purifying Respirator Designed to remove particulate matter or specified gases or vapours Used in industrial settings Not suitable for Courtesy of Chris Hawley. firefighting operations; does not supply oxygen  Standards and Regulations Canadian Standards Association (CSA) – Sets the selection, use, and care requirements for respirators – Also investigates fatalities and injuries CSA standard Z94.4 NFPA 1500, 1404, and 1981 CSA and provincial/territorial agencies – Responsible for administering effective respiratory protection programs  Open-Circuit Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus Typically used for structural firefighting A tank of compressed air provides the breathing air supply. Exhaled air is released through a one-way valve. © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman.  Closed-Circuit Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus Recycles the user’s exhaled air Many include a small oxygen cylinder in © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman. addition to chemically generated oxygen. Often used for extended operations, such as mine rescue  Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus When properly maintained, SCBA will provide sufficient quantities of air to enable fire fighters to perform rigorous tasks. – Requires different breathing techniques – Remember, this equipment limits normal sensory awareness. – Proficiency requires ongoing training and practise. Limitations of SCBA Equipment Use is limited by amount of air in cylinder. Cylinder has realistic life of 50% of rated time. Fire fighters must consider: – Time and effort required to reach destination – Amount of air available once destination is reached – Amount of time needed to complete task – Amount of time to reach a safe area – A reserve of air for unexpected emergencies Limitations of SCBA Equipment SCBA can weigh 11 kg (25 lb). © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman. Added weight and bulk decrease flexibility and mobility. Face piece can limit visibility. May affect ability to communicate May limit hearing May freeze in extreme cold © Jones & Bartlett Photographed by Dave Casey. Learning. Physical Limitations of the User A person with ideal body weight and good physical condition can perform more work per cylinder of air. The weight and bulk of the complete PPE ensemble limit a fire fighter’s ability to walk, climb ladders, lift weight, and crawl through restricted spaces. Practise and conditioning are key.  Psychological Limitations of the User Breathing through an SCBA is different from normal breathing and can be very stressful. The surrounding environment, which is often dark and filled with smoke, is foreign as well. Fire fighters must adjust to these stressful conditions.  Components of SCBA © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman. Components of SCBA: Harness Backpack or frame for mounting the working parts of the SCBA and the two adjustable straps and fasteners Usually constructed of lightweight metal or © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman. composite material.  Components of SCBA: Air Cylinder Assembly Holds the breathing air for an SCBA Air pressure ranges from 15,168 to 37,921 kPa. The neck of an air cylinder is equipped with a hand-operated shut-off valve. Pressure gauge is located near shut-off valve. A second (remote) pressure gauge is located where it can be seen during use. Be careful not to damage the threads or let dirt get into the outlet of the air cylinder.  Components of SCBA: Regulatory Assembly Mounted to waist belt, shoulder strap, or face piece Controls flow of air Some have a dual- path pressure reducer. Slightly positive air © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman. pressure in face piece  Components of SCBA: Regulatory Assembly Activation requires: – Opening cylinder valve – Donning SCBA – Attaching regulator to face piece If activation is cut off during use, the purge/bypass valve can be opened. Pressure gauge readings should be within 10 percent of each other. Competent operation in the dark and wearing gloves is essential.  Components of SCBA: Face Piece Assembly Consists of: – Face mask – Exhalation valve – Regulator Full face pieces cover the nose, mouth, and eyes. © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman. Half face pieces cover the nose and mouth.  Components of SCBA: Face Piece Assembly Some models have a voice amplification device to improve communications. Should be stored with the straps in the longest position to make them easier to don. Several factors may prohibit face masks from sealing properly; face pieces are manufactured in several sizes. Annual fit test is required.  Components of SCBA: Additional Features Heads-up display End-of-service time indicator or low-air alarm Integrated PASS devices Emergency breathing © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman. safety system  Components of SCBA: Additional Features Rapid intervention crew/company universal air connection Data logging, unit IDs, tracking devices, corrective lenses, thermal imaging, etc. © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman. Pathway of Air Through an SCBA Air passes through the cylinder shut-off valve into the high-pressure hose that takes it to the regulator. Regulator sends air into the face piece and to the user. When the user exhales, used air is returned to the face piece. Exhaled air is exhausted from the face piece through the exhalation valve.  Breathing Techniques The skip-breathing technique helps conserve air. – Two short breaths and long exhale (~5 secs) Reilly (humming) technique allows for a longer exhalation, slowing the breathing rate. – Accomplished by slowly inhaling then exhaling while humming Controlled breathing technique – Inhale naturally through the nose and force exhalation from the mouth.  Donning SCBA Must be able to don and activate in 1 minute Before beginning, fire fighters must: – Be wearing full PPE. – Check that air cylinder has 90% pressure. – Be sure donning/doffing switch is activated. – Open the cylinder and listen for alarm. – Test the PASS device. – Check the pressure gauges. – Check that straps are fully extended. – Check that valves are in the correct position.  Donning SCBA from an Apparatus Seat Mount Enables fire fighters to don SCBA en route without unfastening seat belts © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman. Do not tighten the shoulder straps when seated to avoid dislodging SCBA.  Donning SCBA from an Apparatus Compartment Mount Often used by fire fighters who arrive in private vehicles Mounting brackets should be positioned high enough to allow for easy donning. Exterior-mounted SCBA should be protected from weather and dirt by a secure cover. SCBA should be stored on the apparatus in ready-to-use condition, with the air cylinder valve closed.  Donning SCBA from Ground, Floor, or Storage Case Fire fighters must sometimes don an SCBA that is stored in a case or on the ground. These SCBA should not be used during initial phase of operations because removing the unit could add considerable time. Either of two methods can be used—the over- the-head method or the coat method.  Donning the Face Piece To perform correctly, the face piece must be the correct size and it must be adjusted to fit your face. CSA Z94.4 and NFPA 1500 describes requirements for face piece fit testing. There must be no facial hair in the seal area. Eyeglasses that pass through the seal area cannot be worn with a face piece.  Safety Precautions for SCBA Before entering a hazardous environment, make sure you have adequate air supply and activate your PASS device. Be sure you are properly logged in to your personnel accountability system. Always work in teams of two in hostile environments. Always have at least two fire fighters outside at the ready whenever two fire fighters are working in a hostile environment.  SCBA Use During Emergency Situations Keep calm, stop, and think. Control your breathing. If SCBA problems are experienced, exit the IDLH area. If you are in danger, follow self-survival steps and call a mayday. You must learn to master firefighting skills in good and poor areas of visibility. Practise all skills while wearing the SCBA.  Doffing SCBA Procedure depends on which model used and whether it has a face piece-mounted regulator or harness-mounted regulator. Follow the procedures recommended by the manufacturer and your department’s standard operating procedures (SOPs).  Putting It All Together Place the protective hood over your head. Put on your protective pants and boots. Adjust the suspenders and secure the front flap of the pants. Put on your protective coat and secure the front. Open the air-cylinder valve on your SCBA, and check the air pressure. Put on your SCBA harness.  Putting It All Together Tighten both shoulder straps. Attach the waist belt and tighten it. Fit the face piece to your face. Tighten the straps, beginning with the lowest straps. Check the face piece for a proper seal. Pull the protective hood up so that it covers all bare skin but does not obscure vision.  Putting It All Together Place your helmet on your head with the ear tabs extended and secure the chin strap. Turn up your coat collar and secure it in front. Put on your gloves. Check your clothing to be sure it is properly secured. Be sure your PASS device is turned on. Attach your regulator or turn it on to start the flow of breathing air.  SCBA Inspection and Maintenance Must be properly serviced each time it is used – Air cylinder must be changed or refilled. – Face piece and regulator must be sanitized. – Unit should be cleaned after each use and inspected on a daily basis. Complete annual inspection must be performed. If inspection reveals any problems that cannot be remedied, remove from service for repair. Only properly trained and certified personnel are authorized to repair SCBA.  Operational Testing Concentrates on the working parts; should be done after each use and on a set schedule Cylinders must be regularly inspected and tested to ensure they are safe. Cylinders must be visually inspected during daily and monthly inspections. More detailed inspection is required if a cylinder has been exposed to excessive heat, came into contact with flame, was exposed to chemicals, or dropped.  Operational Testing CSA Z180 requires hydrostatic testing for SCBA cylinders on a periodic basis and limits the number of years that cylinder can be used. Hydrostatic testing identifies defects or damage that render the cylinder unsafe. Any cylinder that fails should be immediately taken out of service. Fire fighters must know the type of cylinder used and check each one for a current hydrostatic test date before filling it.  Replacing SCBA Cylinders A single fire fighter must doff an SCBA to replace the air cylinder. Two fire fighters working together can change cylinders without removing the SCBA. A fire fighter should be able to change cylinders in the dark and while wearing gloves. Follow the procedures recommended by the manufacturer and by department SOPs. Replacing an SCBA Cylinder on Another Fire Fighter To rapidly reenter the fire scene, have another person replace your SCBA. Be sure you are physically able to fight a second round with the fire.  Refilling SCBA Cylinders Compressors and cascade systems Proper training is required to fill SCBA cylinders. © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman. © Jones & Bartlett Learning. Photographed by Glen E. Ellman.  Cleaning and Sanitizing SCBA Follow manufacturers’ instructions. Rinse the unit with clean water before taking it apart. Clean the harness assembly and cylinder with mild soap and water. Clean the face pieces and regulators with mild soap and water or a disinfectant solution. Allow the SCBA to fully dry before returning the equipment to service.  Summary Personal protective equipment is essential to a fire fighter. Structural firefighting PPE allows fire fighters to work in burning buildings, elevated temperatures, and toxic gases. PPE consists of a bunker coat and pants, helmet, protective hood, boots, SCBA, PASS, and additional equipment.  Summary Structural PPE has several limitations: weight, overheating, mobility, and sensory. Fire fighters should be able to quickly don PPE. Following a set pattern of donning PPE helps reduce the time it takes to dress. Check the condition of PPE on a regular basis. Clean it when necessary, and get it repaired at once if it is worn or damaged. Damaged PPE will not protect you.  Summary Keep PPE clean to maintain its protective properties and to reduce your chance of developing cancer. The flammable by-products of burnt plastics and synthetic products can become trapped between the fibres, damaging the PPE and increasing your chance of developing cancer. Cleaning instructions are listed on the tag attached to the clothing. Always follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.  Summary The specialized protective equipment used during vehicle extrication includes special gloves and coveralls or jumpsuits. Latex or nitrile gloves may be used if the fire fighter provides emergency medical care. The PPE for wildland fires is designed for comfort and maneuverability. It includes a jacket and pants, helmet, eye protection, and pigskin or leather gloves. Wildland boots are designed to provide comfort and sure footing.  Summary Respiratory hazards associated with fires include smoke, smoke particles, smoke vapours, toxic gases, oxygen deficiency, and increased temperatures. The two main types of SCBA are open-circuit and closed-circuit devices. An open-circuit self- contained breathing apparatus is typically used for structural firefighting. A closed-circuit self- contained breathing apparatus is often used for extended operations, such as mine rescue work.  Summary One of the biggest limitations of an SCBA is the limited amount of air in the cylinder. Manage your working time while using an SCBA so you have enough time to exit from the hazardous area before exhausting the air supply. Physical conditioning is important for all SCBA users. A fire fighter with an ideal body weight and in good physical condition will be able to perform more work per cylinder of air than a person who is overweight or out of shape.  Summary Breathing through an SCBA is different from normal breathing and can be stressful. Covering your face with a face piece, hearing the air rushing in, hearing valves open and close, and exhaling against a positive pressure are foreign sensations. Practicing helps to build confidence in the equipment and your skills. An SCBA consists of four main parts: the harness, the air cylinder assembly, the regulator assembly, and the face piece assembly.  Summary The pathway of air through an SCBA begins in the air cylinder. The air passes through the air cylinder valve into the high-pressure air line that takes it to the regulator. The regulator opens when the user inhales, reducing the pressure on the downstream side. From the face piece, the air is inhaled through the user’s air passages and into the lungs. When the user exhales, used air is returned to the face piece. The exhaled air is exhausted from the face piece through the exhalation valve.  Summary Several breathing techniques can be used to conserve air: – The skip-breathing technique – The Reilly (humming) technique – The controlled breathing technique Each SCBA must be checked on a regular basis to ensure that it is ready for use. Inspection and operational testing should be conducted both after a unit has been used and on a regular schedule.  Summary Compressors and cascade systems are used to refill SCBA air cylinders. A compressor or a cascade system can be permanently located at a maintenance facility or at a firehouse, or it can be mounted on a truck or a trailer for mobile use. Mobile filling units are often brought to the scene of a large fire. The steps for donning complete PPE are provided on the next slides.  Summary Place the protective hood over your head, and bring it down around your neck. Put on your protective pants and boots. Adjust the suspenders, and secure the front flap. Put on your protective coat. Open the air cylinder valve on your SCBA and check the air pressure. Press the air saver/donning switch to prevent air flow, if needed. Put on your SCBA harness.  Summary Tighten both shoulder straps. Attach the waist belt of the SCBA harness and tighten it. Tighten the chest straps, if present. Fit the face piece to your face. Tighten the face piece straps, beginning with the lowest straps. Check the face piece for a proper seal. Pull the protective hood into position over the face piece straps so that it covers all bare skin but does not obscure your vision.  Summary Place your helmet on your head with the ear tabs extended, and secure the chin strap. Turn up your coat collar, and secure it in front. Put on your gloves. Check your clothing to be sure it is properly secured. Make sure your PASS device is activated. Attach your regulator, and open the air cylinder valve to start the flow of breathing air. Work safely!