Professional Documents
Culture Documents
An MDM PUBLICATION
Issue 1 – February 2004
INTERNATIONAL
FIRE FIGHTER
Reporting Worldwide to Municipal, Industrial and Fire Training Professionals
www.iffmag.com
ifc advert 23/10/06 3:40 pm Page 1
INTERNATIONAL
FIRE FIGHTER CONTENTS
February 2004 Issue 1 MUNICIPAL SECTION
44 Hughes Safety Showers,
IONAL
INTERNAT
16 Melba
Profile
Industries, Product
g.com
www.iffma
Publishers
David Staddon & Mark Seton
21 KME Product Profile
Sales and Editorial Manager: Mark Bathard 23-26 What Personal Protective
Equipment?
FIRE AND RESCUE TRAINING SECTION
Contributing Editors
Phil Gerace, Mark Whitcher, Nick Lacey, 29-31 Thermal imaging: two
54-57 Fire Safety Engineering
College Oman, Facilities
Nicky Probyn, Mike Willson, David Burton, decades of product Profile
Dwight Williams, Kelvin Hardingham, developments
Kristian Johnson, David Carson, Bill Savage
58 Hale Europe, Product Profile
IFF is published quarterly by:
MDM Publishing Ltd
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United Kingdom
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32 Thermal Imaging Round Up
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33 Bronto Skylift, Product Profile
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lSSN - 1468-3873 Welcome to the very first issue of International Fire Fighter (IFF) magazine. I hope you
enjoy the editorial content in this issue as well as finding the product and company
profiles useful and informative. International Fire Fighter has been born from the need
DISCLAIMER: to produce an industry magazine covering the three main areas of fire fighting,
The views and opinions expressed in INTERNATIONAL
FIRE PROTECTION are not necessarily those of MDM Municipal, Industrial and Fire Fighter training.
Publishing Ltd. The magazine and publishers are in no way To help you, and make the magazine more user friendly, it is split into three
responsible or legally liable for any errors or anomalies
made within the editorial by our authors. All articles are different sections each section having a pictorial divider.
protected by copyright and written permission must be Please read through and pass it on to other people in your department and feel free
sought from the publishers for reprinting or any form of
duplication of any of the magazines content. Any queries to pass on any comments you may have regarding this issue as well as any suggestions
should be addressed in writing to the publishers. for content in future issues. Please also remember, to mention International Fire Fighter
Reprints of articles are available on request. Prices on when responding to our advertisers. I look forward to hearing from you.
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Municipal
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Above all
Subsidiary of Federal Signal Corporation Bronto – heading upwards, with its feet firmly on the ground.
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Municipal
By Phil Gerace, Director of Sales and
Marketing, KME Fire Apparatus
Municipal
systems, command and communica- year bumper to bumper warranty or the mittee should also be aware that this is
tions, air systems, and winches. All truck representative to transport the a meeting in which it’s important to
major areas are covered, but the Appara- vehicle at no charge to his service center make any remaining changes to the
tus Committee must still decide the under warranty, now is the time to write spec. Cost changes at this point are
configuration to bid, the manufacturers’ that into the spec. Remember, the Fire minimal, however at future points dur-
warranties being requested, special sup- Department has to live with these deci- ing construction, changes may either be
port requirements, inspection trips, and sions for a decade or more, so they must very expensive or not even possible. The
the specifics of the bidding process. It is think carefully about what’s best for the second trip is usually a trip just before
important to note that the decisions long term. the unit goes into paint. This allows the
made at this point have a significant Inspection trips are another factor Committee to see a finished body, but
affect on the final price of the vehicle that contributes greatly to the overall still allows for a moderate amount of
and the number of bidders. acquisition cost. The Apparatus Com- changes. The last trip is usually either a
As the Department configures the mittee can choose to bid them as part 90% or 100% final inspection. At this
apparatus specification to meet their of the overall price, bid them as options, point the apparatus is painted, assem-
needs, how far they stray from the or pay for them out of the Department bled, and all major components are
industry “norm” and from the “stan- budget. If they’re included in the bid, installed. The unit is either done or hav-
dards” of each manufacturer will affect make no mistake the Fire Department ing the last few trim items completed.
the overall bid price. For example, it’s pays for these trips. The frequency and Bring as many Committee members as
fine to specify overall dimensions and group size of these trips varies from possible on this trip. Have everyone
placement of components, but trying to department to department so there is no either agree that the truck meets spec
micromanage compartment dimensions industry standard. It is recommended and will fill the needs of the depart-
or trying to pre-plumb the pump by that at least two (and usually three) ment, or make whatever changes are
noting overly specific plumbing restric- trips take place. The first trip should be necessary (i.e. additional steps, lights, or
tions either increases the cost of the the Pre-Engineering or Pre-Construction switches) so that when the apparatus
truck or decreases the number of bid- Conference. This is a meeting in which arrives at the station, it receives the full
ders. However, at the other end of the the manufacturer discusses exactly how support of the committee. One of the
spectrum, following any one manufac- they plan to implement the solutions to biggest mistakes made at this final
turer’s norms or suggested specifications each of the requirements in the bid. inspection trip is not allowing sufficient
too closely can often also lead to There are opportunities to get sugges- time to review the apparatus. It is recom-
increased prices and decreased bidders. tions from the manufacturer about mended that committee members go
When a department writes a specifica- changes that might better satisfy the line by line through the specification,
tion that includes items like the number Department’s needs. There are also usu- making sure that all items and changes
of fins in a radiator, the exact alloy or ally questions asked that the depart- are covered. Once the truck is in the
dimensions of an extruded support ment might not have considered, so station is not the time to mention that
member, or any other proprietary ver- every decision may not always be made the Fire Department thought there
biage from a specific manufacturer, it is during the meeting. The apparatus com- would be an extra light in one of the
telling all potential bidders that the bid
will somehow favor a particular bidder.
This not only decreases the number of
potential bidders, but of those suppliers
that do bid, they must increase their
price to meet that particular spec item.
Areas like extended warranties or spe-
cial service requirements should also be
considered. While these requirements
can add significantly to the overall price
of the vehicles when the department is
bidding only one or two trucks, on mul-
tiple unit bids, the overall cost is usually
heavily discounted. If you want a five Pic courtesy of KME Fire Apparatus
Cable Drums
For storage of electrical cable and small hoses
Designed for heavy duty use
Mild steel with tough nylon coating
Can be stacked up to 3 units high
Most models available from stock
Municipal
compartments. Once again, attention to
detail is important since what the com-
mittee accepts at delivery will be part of
the department for years to come.
The specifics of the bid process
should be carefully considered. At a
minimum, a 100% performance bond
should be required to make sure that
manufacturers without the financial sta-
bility to stand behind their products and
warranties will not be considered. Bid-
ders should be given at least four weeks
to prepare a bid. If the Department is
bidding multiple units, it might also pay
to have a mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting.
This allows potential bidders to view the
specification ahead of time and air Pic courtesy of KME Fire Apparatus
specific questions or complaints about
items that in their view lack clarity, con-
flict, or greatly favor another manufac- BIDS RFPs
turer. This meeting will really help the Open at specified time and date, Close at specified time and date; read
bidding Department hone their specs publicly read bidder’s name, price, only the names of suppliers submitting
and at the very least, helps to minimize items offered, F.O.B points, delivery, etc. proposals.
protests at the time of award. It is also No discussion with bidders allowed. Discussion with suppliers permitted with
critical to make sure that all bidders restrictions specified prior to the
clearly and explicitly state any and all submittals.
exceptions to the specification at the
Evaluate against specifications. Evaluate against evaluation criteria and
very beginning of their bid.
A specific date and time should be against competing proposals.
announced for the receipt of bids. How Entire procurement public record. Awarded contract public record.
such receipts are handled should be up
to the Department’s legal counsel, but and compliant bids should be the only can be somewhat complicated. An easier
to have a meeting to announce the considerations and can be defended to method is to simply first, evaluate all
results of these bids is often a waste of those with a financial concern as their bids for compliance. Remove any bid
time. One should expect that bid num- primary interest. If this is a major con- that does not comply on a specification
bers will vary greatly and often because cern however, the Fire Department may that is substantive. Then have everyone
of the number of exceptions taken. If a choose to do a Request for Proposal on the Apparatus Committee review all
particular manufacturer has partially or (RFP) instead of a bid. Above is a com- remaining bids. Obviously the lowest bid
completely ignored the department’s parison chart of the major features of will receive the greatest attention, but
specification, the department may not each. remember low bid isn’t always the most
want to give a “false impression” of that Evaluation of the final bids or RFP’s responsible bid. Carefully consider the
manufacturer being “low bid” to the can often be confusing because typic- past experiences or reputations of ven-
department, other bidders, or other ally, even when the Fire Department dors in terms of quality, service, and
interested parties. Unusually low bid requests it, bids are generally not in delivery. Look for a well prepared, logi-
numbers may at times seem attractive in similar order. One method to evaluate cal, and professional bid. If the vendor
certain political agendas, thereby caus- bids is a points system. Points are either isn’t able to organize the bid properly,
ing pressure to purchase apparatus that awarded or deducted for spec compli- can they really build the truck properly.
does not meet the needs of the Fire ance or lack thereof. Extra points may In short, find the bid that best meets
Department. However, if the Apparatus be awarded for exceeding specifications. the needs of the Department both
Committee has done its job, the spec This point system is often weighted and financially and operationally.
A specific date and time should be Once the final award decision is
made a new process begins with
announced for the receipt of bids. both opportunities and pitfalls in
the manufacture of the new appa-
How such receipts are handled ratus. This process too should be
done with thoughtful research and
should be up to the Department’s the ability to stay true to the stated
needs of the Fire Department. If the
legal counsel, but to have a Department has done its homework
meeting to announce the results of up front though, they will be ade-
quately prepared to face all
these bids is often a waste of time. remaining challenges.
Edwards-driven to perform!
Municipal
RESCUE TOOL ROUND UP
For years, rescue tools have been essential equipment in a fire fighters arsenal. Over the next three pages
IFF takes a look at the current technology available from some of the worlds leading manufacturers.
Municipal
15 kg (including battery!) allows rescuers switch either to “maximum force” or to
to easily carry these tools over long “maximum spreading”.
distances, even on rough terrain. The
battery-powered cutters and combitools Recommended applications:
are not only suitable for urban search & • Rescue operations in traffic accidents
rescue applications, but can also be used • Rescue operations in buildings or after
for victim extrication during rapid response natural disasters
operations following vehicle accidents. • Mobile rescue after a building collapse
Shoring system with hydraulic struts • Confined space rescue e.g. in tunnels
for lifting power. The PowerShore™ Highlights:
shoring system from Holmatro® consists of
lightweight components in various sizes • innovative telescopic technology for
that can be coupled in a quick and easy maximum mobility and multifunction
manner. At the same time an automatic • spreading force and spreading distance
snap-lock system guarantees safe use. A can be chosen according to the specific
unique feature of this system is that it rescue scenario
includes struts with very powerful inte- • easy adjustment of the arm length
grated hydraulic cylinders which cannot • low oil consumption – ideal for the
only hold the load, but also lift it to create combination with a mobile hydraulic
potentially life-saving ‘working space’. pump (e.g. LUKAS CP 100)
These hydraulic struts with 10 tonnes Due to the telescopic design a stroke • short opening and closing times
lifting capacity are available next to com- of 820 mm can be achieved while the • only minimum storage space required
ponents with integrated pneumatics for retracted height is 480 mm only. This • maximum handling comfort through
the lifting of smaller loads and mechanical enormous working range allows to do low weight, compact design and per-
struts to just hold the load when creating rescue jobs in one step which would nor- fect balance
additional space is not required. With mally require the application of several • precise operation with your fingertip in
the help of a swivel head the struts can traditional rams one after the other. Thus any working position
be positioned under almost any angle. the duration of the extrication can be
Holmatro’s versatile PowerShore™ system is considerably reduced.
suitable for all sorts of shoring applica- Further advantages:
tions, ranging from vehicle stabilization
• small dimensions, light weight
to confined space rescue (manholes, col-
• high resistance against lateral load
lapsed buildings etc.).
• precise control to the millimeter in any (left) spreader with arms in home position,
Holmatro® rescue tools comply with
all important national and international
position with the LUKAS star grip valve (right) spreader with extended arms
performance and safety standards such The claw and the special designed foot
as the French NFS-61-571 norm, the of the cylinder are providing a firm grip Technical data
German DIN 14751 norm, the European even on flat or oblique surfaces. Spreading force
preliminary prEN 13204 norm and the The LTR 3,5/820 EN – excellent per- up to 292 kN / 65,650 lbs
American NFPA 1936 norm. Moreover, formance and technology for the future. Spreading distance
Holmatro was the first rescue tool brand The rescue ram will be delivered with (long arms) up to 625 mm / 24.6 in
to be certified by UL (Underwriters Labo- hydraulic oil and non-interchangeable Pulling force up to
ratories) in the USA back in 1993. Today, quick-connect couplings. (short arms) 49,6 kN / 11,150 lbs
many years later, Holmatro® is still the Pulling distance
only brand that has been able to meet Technical data up to (long arms) 507 mm / 20 in
UL’s stringent performance, testing and total stroke 32.2 in Weight 17,9 kg / 39.5 lbs
quality requirements. The Holmatro organ- strokes: piston 1 11.6 in Subject to revision
ization has the ISO 9001 certificate and piston 2 11 in
works in accordance with the correspond- For more information, please contact:
piston 3 9.6 in LUKAS Hydraulik GmbH
ing quality procedures. lifting forces: piston 1 53,950 lbs A Unit of IDEX Corporation
For more information, please contact: piston 2 27,000 lbs Postfach 2560, 91013 Erlangen
Holmatro Rescue Equipment piston 3 7,900 lbs Weinstraße 39, 91058 Erlangen
PO Box 33 length: extended 51.2 in Germany
4940 AA Raamsdonksveer retracted 18.9 in Phone: +49 (0) 91 31/698-0
The Netherlands dimensions wxh 4.4 x 8.3 in Fax: +49 (0) 91 31/69 83 94
Phone: +31 162 589 200 weight 38.6 lbs E-mail: info@lukas.de
Fax: +31 162 522 482 Subject to revision
Website: www.lukas.de
E-mail: info@holmatro.com
Website: www.holmatro.com
LUKAS® CENtury OGURA & CO. LTD.
LUKAS® LTR 3,5/820 EN TELESCOPIC SPREADER LSP 30 T
The Ogura range of battery-powered
TRIPLE TELESCOPIC RAM The new LUKAS telescopic spreader – hydraulic rescue tools fill the gap left by
superior technology for the challenges of the more traditional heavy-duty tools that,
Still World’s Only Triple Rescue Ram tomorrow. because of weight, access and other limi-
The weight of the LTR 3,5/820 EN The mobile spreader with telescopic arms tations, are not suitable for every situation.
CENtury version has been reduced to less is offering two features at a time: The Ogura cutters, spreaders, and com-
than 18 kg. extremely high spreading force and bination tools are designed to provide the
With its push capacity of 24 t in the extremely wide spreading distance. And Emergency and Security Services with a
first stage and 12 t in the second stage that’s new compared with traditional unique range of powerful, lightweight,
this ram is capable of carrying out even spreader designs: depending on the res- and extremely portable tools for a variety
the heaviest rescue work. cue situation it is up to the operator to of rescue and extrication situations.
Municipal
customers the very best options available.
WEBER-HYDRAULIK KEEP THE
For more information, please contact:
“PRESSURE ON” WITH NEW HIGH Weber Hydraulik GmbH
PERFORMANCE TOOLS Heilbronner Strasse 30
74363 Guglingen
Following on from the success of the Germany
large supply contract for the Scottish Tel: +49 7135 710
Executive “New Dimension”, Scotland, Fax: +49 7135 71301
Weber-Hydraulik have developed a new Website: www.weber.de
generation of rescue tools in preparation
for the demanding requirements ahead.
There is no set-up time so the tools are
These latest additions to the already ZUMRO RESQ Q-CUTTER
comprehensive range offer the ultimate
ready for immediate deployment. And in power and performance, yet maintain-
once in operation there are no trailing ing Weber’s low weight, and perfect
hoses or cables to get in the way or to balance.
limit the freedom of movement. The new ultra performance S 270-71
The battery that powers these fully Cutter is one of the world’s strongest,
hydraulic tool clips into base of the pistol supplying up to 71 tonnes cutting force,
grip style handle where it is easily and with a huge opening of 270 mm yet,
removed for charging or changing. some how, still weighing only 17.4 kg.
Battery maintenance is made easy by the
Ni-MH batteries that have no memory
so can be charged in any state and
the “intelligent battery charger” that
makes sure that they are never over
charged. Confined space rescue is not only a special-
The year 2003 has seen continuing ized piece of action, a very small cutter is a
improvement and additions to the Ogura first requirement as well as a rescuer mostly
product range with the introduction of needs to cut material from spaces as large
the HRS-92 Rescue System and the BC- as the fist. Therefore Zumro has introduced
250 Combination Tool. the Q-Cutter; a very small and light weight
The HRS-92 is an improved version of With the new SP 60 Spreader, Weber cutter with a semi-remote thumb-control
HRS-91. The weight of the tool heads have achieved extreme spreading force of and a head which articulates 180 degrees.
and pump unit has been reduced and the over 25 tonnes, combined with the This Q-Cutter therefore is the ideal solution
tool heads now offer the choice of either largest of spreading distance, whilst still for cutting seat frames and pedals!
direct connection to the pump unit or via being under 25 kg. This compact cutter has a minimum
an extension hose. In the pipeline are You do not usually associate combina- cutting force of 149 kN and can cut 18mm
additional tool heads, and a special sleeve tion tools with heavy rescue work, but round hot steel bars as well as a flat bar of
that when fitted to the pump unit will Weber has set new standards with the 50 x 6mm. Moreover the Q-Cutter has a
allow underwater operation up to a depth new SPS 400 Super Combination Tool. minimum spreading force of 36 kN (3 ton)
of 10 m. Where customers simply do not have the with only a weight of 7.4 kg.
space, or the budget for two dedicated
tools, then this new combination tool has
the performance to tackle the toughest
of commercial rescue work with a cutting
force of over 50 tonnes, and over 70
tonnes spreading force. In addition to
these benefits, the working tips of the
blades/arms can be quickly removed to
enable unrestricted and unhindered cut-
ting.
Liaising closely with Europe’s leading
car manufacturers, and relentless testing
on the latest material sections, and safety
The BC-250 Combination Tool at
systems fitted within new automobile
13.5 kg (including battery) is the lightest
construction, Weber-Hydraulik ensures its
tool in its class and, with a Cutting Force Like all Zumro cutters, this Q-Cutter
tools are ahead of the game.
of 27 t and Spreading Force of 10.6 t, can be ordered to operate on ANY
With continuous development of its
one of the most powerful. hydraulic pressure system with the unique
range, Weber continues to offer its
All the tools come in their own carry- MPS system and also has the unique
ing cases with battery, battery charger, blade design for impact-free cutting.
tools and manuals.
For more information, please contact:
For more information, please contact: Zumro B.V.
Ogura & Co. Ltd. P.O. Box 215
2661 Hongo Ebina City 2160 AE Lisse
Kanagawa Pref 243-0417 the Netherlands
Japan Tel. +31 0 252 419 002
Tel: +81 46 238 1285 Fax +31 0 252 411 794
Fax: +81 46 238 4188 E-mail: info@zumro.nl
Website: www.oguramulticutter.com Website: www.zumro.nl
283 mm
L
Round bar up to dia. 38 mm
P R O D U C T P R O F I L E
Municipal
MELBA INDUSTRIES
Innovation and Service
deciding not to include a membrane in
their turnout system whilst others
maintain the need for such membranes.
Melba Industries has worked closely
T
he Australian textile market has would best suit their needs. with the Australian marketplace to
diminished greatly over the past Melba Industries has designed a range design a multitude of systems to reflect
10 years. Once a significant of products that reflect these needs yet differing needs. Melba not only offers
employer, textile manufacture is now also honour the difficulties of the Aus- the latest technology in their outer
regarded as an endangered species. As tralian climate. The aim of Melba’s tech- shells for the turnout coats but also has
with other developed markets in the nical development team has been to developed an extensive array of mem-
world, it has been extremely difficult to design the lightest, most breathable ‘fit branes and thermal layers. Whilst the
maintain a viable local operation when for purpose’ systems the market can main focus has been adherence to the
your client base moves purchasing off- offer. They work closely with the rele- Australian Standard AS 4967(Int)-2002
shore. This has resulted in a massive vant authorities to clearly identify the they have also designed systems to
reduction in the number of textile appropriate level of protection they meet the requirements of the European
companies operating in Australia. require and then manufacture a range of Standard EN469 and United States
Melba Industries has operated in products to reflect these needs. approach of NFPA–1971.
Melbourne, Australia since 1934. Once Melba Industries manufactures a Melba Industries has been able to
dedicated to the manufacture of appar- range of protective fabrics from Nomex approach the Australian marketplace in
el fabrics, this privately owned com- 111A, Nomex Delta C, various Nomex an innovative manner to ensure the
pany knew that product innovation blends through to PBI Gold. The systems they supply suit the individual
and specialised market development emphasis is always on product weight requirements of the fire service agen-
was vital to the future of the business. and suitability. Australia can get cies. The same approach has also
Melba has been one of the success extremely hot and humid. Incorrect enabled them to export their fabric
stories of the Australian marketplace. It attire can incapacitate a person very combinations to a variety of countries
is the country’s leading manufacturer quickly. It is no use wearing a system in the Asia Pacific region. The problems
of automotive, technical and seating that may offer tremendous heat protec- associated with heat stress for the fire
fabrics. This process of change has seen tion yet results in heat stress to the fighter is a world-wide issue. Melba’s
the company become the first textile wearer. innovative fabric systems can be
manufacturer in Australia to be award- With this in mind the Australian utilised by any fire service where gar-
ed the automotive quality standard QS Standard AS 4967(Int)-2002 — ‘Protec- ment weight and breathability are a
9000 and conforms to ISO 9001. tive Clothing for Fire Fighters’ was concern. Combined with a focus on
A major reason for this success has devised. This standard reflects the vary- customer service and technical support
been the development of a range of ing needs of the Australian fire fighter Melba has been able to solve the ‘prob-
technical textiles, both woven and knit- and allows each individual state agency lems’ of many a client.
ted, designed to offer a specific level of to determine the level of protection
performance. These textiles are utilised required by the members. For instance, For more information,
by a variety of markets – military, fire the Australian Standard AS 4967(Int)- please contact:
services, police, mining, filtration, 2002 has two performance levels in
safety and medical. each test of thermal performance test – Melba Industries
An important point of focus for the Heat Transfer (Flame) EN367 and Heat
75 Heyington Avenue
company has been the development of Transfer (Radiation) EN366. This dual
Thomastown
the fire service and military markets. system allows for each agency to accu-
The Australian marketplace is sophisti- rately nominate their required level of Victoria 3074
cated and both Australian and interna- performance for their turnout system Australia
tional standards are utilised to ensure and yet be fully accredited to the Aus- Tel: +61 (0) 3 9474 3000
the safety and protection of the worker. tralian Standard. The needs of a fire Fax: +61 (0) 3 9464 4114
Leading personnel in the fire services fighter in Southern Australia in regard
and military sectors have an intimate to clothing will vary from a fire fighter E-mail:
knowledge of these standards. The key in Northern Australia. This standard Robert.Walsh@melbaind.com.au
is for them to determine the level of allows for such differences. Already the Website: www.melbaind.com.au
protection required and what products market has witnessed certain agencies
Municipal
Vigorous decon
equipment
By Mark Whitcher, maintenance
programmes
Managing Director,
Professional Protection
Systems Ltd.
Municipal
Vigorous
decon
equipment
maintenance
programmes Pic courtesy of PPS
familiar with the possibilities of decon well as regular inspection of water con-
equipment that they can carry out the nections and fuel lines for wear or
maintenance checks. In practice these damage. An important part of the pro-
are slightly different for inflatable units cedure is to start up all units and con-
and the new big mechanical homeland firm that they are operational within
defence mass decon units. For either to their specified limits. Lastly, and most
service will probably be obsolescent in function however close attention has to importantly, a worthwhile maintenance
a decade. be paid to the accessories which both programme must instruct, after clean-
Any viable maintenance programme types of decon shower enjoy in com- ing and testing and the fastening of
depends on a close co-operation mon. Water and air heaters, generators, appropriate test labels, how equipment
between manufacturer and user. Practi- pumps and even non-mechanical items should be packed away in such a man-
cally this means the end user has to be like raised flooring, waste water tanks, ner that it could spring into instant life.
offered some insight into the manufac- couplings and hoses, if they are not Inflatable units have their own spe-
ture of the product, as well as hands- constantly monitored, may have an cial procedures. All equipment apper-
on experience of the equipment in its effect on the inherent operational lia- taining to them needs first to be
pre-delivery state. The aim is to develop bility of the equipment. checked against the inventory list then
familiarity with the product in a hands- As far as mechanical equipment is the unit has to be inflated and moni-
on way. This is of course not a substi- concerned procedures must be provided tored out for obvious leaks Particular
tute for operational training exercises, for inspecting all units for signs of attention must be paid to welded
rather it is the up-stream part of these, wear or damage. Also it provides for seams and the containment, doors and
where the user can learn to deploy the regular checks on items like oil levels, zips have also to be examined for dam-
units with the maximum of technical signs of fuel contamination, the state age or wear.
accuracy. It is only when operatives are of electrical cables and connections as Features like loops, light port holes,
groundsheets, water sumps and cur-
tains must also be inspected for dam-
Water and air heaters, generators, age or wear. Water systems have to be
subjected to similar procedures. Fea-
pumps and even non-mechanical tures like detergent injection systems
have to be inspected for blockages or
items like raised flooring, waste signs of damage.
www.hughes-safety-showers.co.uk
Municipal
P R O D U C T P R O F I L E
Municipal
family in the fire service including
rearmount, midmount, and tractor
drawn aerials from 55’ to 121’. And
KME is the only manufacturer in the
world to perform both UL and Proof
Load Testing on its aerials. KME has
long been recognized as a leader in the
manufacture of pumpers and tankers.
Styles include skid units, mini-pumpers,
Class A pumpers, foam pumpers, indus-
trial trucks, t-tankers, and elliptical
tankers. No manufacturer offers as
K M E FI R E
many plumbing, compartment, and
body style options as KME.
KME offers over 75 different rescue
configurations in aluminum and stain-
less steel for every function including
APPARATUS
incident command, hazmat, rehab,
air/light, paramedic, and confined
space. Whatever the apparatus or
options, all KME’s have reliability and
quality built in from the start.
Municipal
What Personal
Protective
Equipment? By Nick Lacey
Municipal
hot piece of welding slag dropping concerning PPE maybe country specific
inside his gloves. Was it incorrect PPE to the region you are working in, so it
for the job? Was he even aware that he is worth ensuring that the regulations
had the wrong gloves on for the task you are following are applicable to the
he was undertaking? He should have country in which you are working.
The PPE at work regulations 1992 the proper use, care, and cleaning of
PPE.
often referred to as part of the ■ Maintaining records on PPE instruc-
tion and training.
“Six pack” clearly place a duty of ■ Supervising their staff to ensure that
the elements of the PPE program are
care on employers and the self- followed and that employees proper-
ly use and care for their PPE.
employed to provide serviceable ■ Notifying the authorities when new
hazards are introduced or when
and suitable PPE, at no cost to ■
processes are changed or added.
Ensuring defective or damaged
their employees. equipment is immediately replaced.
PROTECTING THE
WORLD’S FIREFIGHTERS
Municipal
of training provided, names of all per- he was wearing gave very little protec-
sons trained and the dates the training tion for the situation he was faced
occurred. These records should be kept with. He was caught in a flash back
for at least 3 years. resulting in burns to both hands.
So careful consideration is essential
SIZE
DOES
MATTER
BIGGEST DISPLAY FOR
MULTIPLE-PERSON VIEWING
WORLD’S LARGEST
THERMAL IMAGING COMPANY
•5” Display
•Superior Image Quality
•Color Pallets
•Infotherm™
•Digital Temperature Measurement
•Design Accommodates Crawling
877-322-7282
www.flir.com/iff0204
page 28 advert 23/10/06 4:00 pm Page 1
P. 29-33 23/10/06 2:05 pm Page 29
Municipal
Thermal
Imaging
Two Decades of
By Nicky Probyn Product Developments
e2v technologies first thermal imaging camera – the NFTI (Naval firefighters thermal imager) used by Naval firefighters
MONITORING THE TEMPERATURE of objects has long played a role in every- Advisory Council submitted a report on
assisting the vision of firefighters in
day life. As early as 400 BC, Hippocrates (the Greek Physician) wrote: “In
smoke. The report examined technolo-
whatever part of the body excess heat or cold is felt, the disease is there to be gies that could be used to aid the loca-
discovered.” Finding its origins in medical applications, thermal imaging – the tion of casualties and the seat of a fire
ability to detect heat, not light – has become an important part of civilisation. in thick smoke. The report correctly
Firefighters use thermal imaging cameras to locate the source and spread of a identified that long wavelength infrared
fire and for search and rescue operations, thermography plays an important radiation was almost unaffected by all
part in engineering maintenance and doctors use the technology as a non- classes of smoke. It was found that a
invasive method of mapping body temperature. But where does it come from? suitable thermal imaging camera would
And where is it going? be able to “see through” smoke almost
as if it wasn’t there. The solution
found, the only problem now lay in
n the early 19th Century, the
I
military applications.1 finding a device that was not only
astronomer Sir William Herschel tried Initial military thermal imagers – smaller and more flexible than current
to map heat given off by separate used in the mid 20th Century – had technology options, but also far less
colours of the rainbow spectrum pro- been the preserve of high-end pro- expensive.
jected onto a table in a darkened room. grams. Devices used were heavy and Enter the “pyro-electric vidicon” (Pevi-
The highest temperature, he found, was inflexible – designed to be fixed to conTM trademarked by e2v technologies,
beyond the red end of the band. This vehicles, aircrafts and ships, utilising then EEV). PeviconTM based thermal
heat he called “dark heat” and it was Sir detectors that had to be cooled down imagers were originally designed for mil-
John Herschel – Sir William’s son – that to very low temperatures to demon- itary applications, but had never reached
later recorded rays of dark heat – strate optimum performance. In addi- the required performance. PeviconTM
terming the image a “thermogram”. This tion, military thermal imagers were tubes were, however, both relatively
early research laid the foundations for extremely expensive, too expensive to cheap to produce and, more importantly
advances that would come over a cen- be used anywhere but in funded gov- did not require cooling to operate. In the
tury later, with more sophisticated ther- ernment programs. 1970’s, at the time of the report, only a
mal imaging devices, then used in The advent of thermal imaging for small number of PeviconsTM were being
fire services came in the 1970’s, when a produced annually and supplied to acad-
1Source: http://www.thermology.com/history.htm UK Government Central Fire Brigade emic and research bodies. Following the
Municipal
publication of the research report and most of them at sea. Images of Royal
recognising a market for its technology, Navy ships with thick smoke billowing
e2v technologies set about developing a form them were broadcast around the
thermal imaging camera based on the globe. A shipboard fire is a catastrophe
PeviconTM and successfully trialled it for passengers and crew. Multiple sealed
with a small number of UK fire brigades. compartments can fill with smoke,
The camera satisfied all brigade require- making navigation through the vessel a
ments but, due to the relative lack of slow process and impeding efforts of
knowledge of thermal imaging at the onboard fire and rescue teams to locate
time, the cameras were seen as some- and extinguish the seats of fires – using
thing of a novelty, rather than the time that isn’t available. There is little
essential firefighting and rescue tool chance of escape from a shipboard fire
they were set to become. and very little opportunity for the fire
to burn itself out. More and more ves-
CHANGING PERCEPTIONS sels were stricken with fire and it was
In 1982, the UK became involved in the this urgent operational requirement that
Falklands conflict. Around 250 British led the Royal Navy to deploy the first
and 750 Argentinean lives were lost2 – thermal imaging cameras into its fleet.
Thermal imagers subsequently rapidly
e2v technologies latest thermal imaging 2 Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/timelines/
became an invaluable tool, helping to
britain/post_falklands.htm)
camera reduce losses due to fire both in peace-
time and battle situations. The trend
set, many more European and Com-
monwealth Navies followed suit, and
In case of fire
better safe than sorry!
following serious damage sustained by
the USS Stark in a Gulf incident, even
the US Navy and coastguard made Pevi-
conTM based thermal imaging cameras
standard damage control equipment
throughout the fleet.
We offer to the fire professional the complete At last thermal imaging had started
range of high performance foaming agents, to become standard fire and rescue
e.g.
equipment – for military applications at
MOUSSOL-APS least.
Alcohol resistant universal AFFF foam liquids
TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT
STHAMEX-AFFF
Aqueous film forming foam liquids Thermal imaging cameras now having
become commercially available,
STHAMEX technology had to develop in line with
Synthetic foam liquids
end-user requirements. In the mid
STHAMEX-class-A 1990s, an initiative funded by the US
Foam liquids for class A and B government aimed at producing lower
FLUOR-FOAMOUSSE cost and more flexible thermal imaging
Fluoroprotein foam liquids systems for the military resulted in the
FOAMOUSSE-FFFP production of a Focal Plane Array
Film forming fluoroprotein foam liquids detector. Although driven by military
needs, this program was funded on the
FOAMOUSSE “dual use” principle, meaning that
Protein foam liquids
Ask for more information!
fights
Dr.STHAMER HAMBURG
Liebigstrasse 5 · D-22113 Hamburg · Germany
Telefon +49 40 73 61 68-0 · Telefax +49 40 73 61 68-60
e2v technologies first thermal imaging
E-Mail: info@sthamer.com · http://sthamer.com
camera for civilian fire brigades
Municipal
usage for the detectors was other industries are fast recog-
envisaged both for military nising the benefits of non-
and civilian firefighting contact monitoring of heat –
applications. or cold. Buildings maintenance
This new detector type can be carried out, monitoring
not only enabled output of heat loss from windows or the
far clearer pictures than was run of electrical cables in walls.
possible with vacuum tube This overall market expansion is
technology, it also opened funding more and more detec-
the market to competition. tor and electronics develop-
Today, thermal imaging ments and could see thermal
cameras for firefighting imagers become increasingly
purposes are manufactured more versatile over the coming
and offered by a variety of years.
different companies – prin- Image captured with the Argus®3 in a
cipally from the US, UK and France. Whilst firefighting will always remain
fire scene
Due to the new detector type having a difficult and dangerous job it is evi-
been developed for military applications features, enabling them to become a dent that thermal imaging is one of the
in the US, the sensors were heavily more flexible and useful tool. Today, most significant developments in aid-
export license restricted, meaning they remote video transmission, temperature ing firefighters and search & rescue
teams since the advent of breathing
could only be sold to certain countries measurement and digital zoom are
apparatus. With more versatile cam-
worldwide. common offerings. eras available, there is a real possi-
Increased competition and volumes bility that cameras could be small
have also meant that the price of cam- BUT WHAT OF THE FUTURE? and light enough to be integrated into
eras has fallen substantially in real As with consumer electronics, the pace one system – using a firefighters
terms. This has resulted in ever increas- of development in firefighting thermal breathing apparatus as a backbone
and integrating all components of
ing use of the technology worldwide. imagers seems to get faster and faster. firefighting: vision, air, communi-
Coupled with the advent of In addition to firefighting, worldwide cations and hazardous gas warnings.
microbolometer sensors that deliver ever applications for thermal imaging cam- With this fully integrated system avail-
better image quality, the global market- eras are ever increasing. Today, thermal able to all firefighters wearing breath-
place is becoming increasingly competi- imagers are used in other markets, not ing apparatus, thermal imaging will
tive. Vast improvements in electronics have fully realised its potential –
only for search and rescue operations
enabling smoke to become as normal
within thermal imaging cameras allow but also as preventative maintenance as daylight vision.
manufacturers to offer many additional and condition monitoring tools, and
THE LIGHTEST ON
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WEIGHS APPROX
•
850g
WIRELESS TRANSMISSION
•
CAN WITHSTAND FLASHOVER OF
1000oC FOR 10 SECONDS
•
RAYTHEON MICRO
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Agencies worldwide. For full details or to arrange a demonstration with a GB Solo representative
contact - GB Solo Ltd. Tel: 01609 881855
• Fax: 01609 881103 • email: sales@gbsolo.co.uk • www.gbsolo.co.uk
Municipal
P R O D U C T P R O F I L E
Municipal
The RL range covers now the working
heights from 23 to 53 meters. These aeri-
al ladder platforms combine the benefits
of a conventional ladder and a platform.
All Bronto Skylift RL units are more ver-
satile than conventional ladders; they can
be used for continuous rescuing, there is
a ready-to-be-used water line in it for
fire fighting, the rescue cage can be
equipped with fixed tools (for instance
flood lights, strecher carrier, cutting
extinguisher etc.). The unit is ready for
action once levelled, compared to ladders,
where the equipment needs to be
dragged up before taking into use. The
BRONTO SKYLIFT
Rescue Lift cage can also be used without
manpower in the cage which is not possi-
ble with ladders. The dimensions of the
capacious rescue cage are 1.0 m (length)
R L RANGE
x 2.0 m (width) x 1.1 m (height). The
cage is fitted with an inward opening
door located at the rear left side to
enable safe access to the cage in travel-
(RESCUE LADDERS)
ling position.
Fast positioning and computer aided
operations increase passive safety of the
firemen in extreme situations. All RL units
have Bronto+electronic system. With the
B
Safe working load (without
new member of the popular range water discharge) 400 kg stabilizing system is automatic ”one but-
of rescue ladders: Bronto Skylift F Max. nominal water discharge ton” variable jacking type. This feature
38 RL. The unit has a working height of capacity (with adequate substantially reduces the width required
supply pressure) 3800 l/min for setting up and operating the aerial
38 meter. With a transportation height of Rotation, continuous 360°
3.3 – 3.7 m (depending naturally on the yet it provides full working height and
Transport height working outreach depending on where
chassis) the unit is still very compact and (depending on chassis) 3.3 – 3.7m
the jacks has been placed. There are two
easy to use even in the city. Transport length
The main operating data: (depending on chassis) 10 m independent automatically operating and
Transport width 2.5 m self controlling safety systems to prevent
Max. working height Typical weight with an unsafe configuration.
(depending on chassis, G.V.W. The first F 38 RL unit was delivered to
transportation height) 38 m (standard specification) 26.0 t
Max. height to working
Mikkeli Fire Brigade (situated in Eastern
cage bottom (depending The F 38 RL has two booms, the first Finland) in the end of 2003. The unit is
on transportation height) 35.8 m boom with telescopic extension providing mounted onto Mercedes Benz Econic
Max. height to the top of direct movement and the second boom 2628 NLA chassis.
the ladder (depending on with vertical movement of approx.
transportation height) 36.8 m 180 degrees. This configuration results
Max. working outreach 21.6 m For further information,
in compact travelling dimensions yet in
Max. working reach below please contact:
the ground level 5.0 m extreme versatility in operation. The
second boom provides
an up-and-over capability Bronto Skylift OY AB
of approx. 7.8 m through- Teerivuorenkatu 28
out its vertical movement.
The boom design permits Tampere
the cage to be positioned FIN – 33300
up to 5 m below ground Finland
level – this provides
Tel: +358 327 27 111
additional flexibility for
rescues from rivers, Fax: +358 327 27 300
embankments, canals, Website: www.bronto.fi
docksides etc.
Industrial
page 36 advert 23/10/06 4:14 pm Page 1
www.ansul.com
P. 35-51 23/10/06 2:22 pm Page 37
Industrial
Are “environment
friendly” foams
really green? By Mike Willson
Industrial
liquids, will mix and carry them past fuel/oil Key Criteria UL UL 162 requirements Notes
water separator systems which are designed requirements (NFPA 11, 16, 16A)
to trap hydrocarbon fuels and oils to prevent ( NFPA18)
them entering rivers and water courses. Class A Wetting Class B Foam liquid Separate listings and test criteria
Allowing them past just adds to any potential agents (GOHR) concentrates (GFGV) (also by UL confirms these are NOT
pollution problem by adding an iridescent suitable for Class A use). comparable agents.
film acting as an oxygen barrier across the Fire test 2” layer n- 2” layer n-heptane on water 55 US Galls (208 litres) fuel on
water surface. Not only is the SD foam itself heptane on 4.65m2 (50 sq.ft.) each test.
the most highly toxic foam type to aquatic water 1min preburn
life like fish and their food sources but also 4.65m2
kills off the vitally important bacteria which (50sq.ft.)
live and process waste water in effluent treat- 1min preburn
ment systems. All this from a supposedly very Application 8.15L/min/m2 1.63L/min/m2 5 times higher application rates
“environmentally friendly” concentrate. rate (10 (2 USGPM/sq.ft) for wetting agents on the same
USGPM/sq.ft) test
“ENVIRONMENT FRIENDLY” HYPE
Extinction time No time limit 3 minutes or less for full Unlimited dilution of fuel
The easiest way to recognise such hype is (pan must not extinguishment. providing pan does not overflow.
when claims are being made without test overflow).
data to back them up. One emulsifying
Water used Fire test with Fire tests using fresh and salt Wetting agent foams work much
agent claiming to be “environment friendly” fresh water water. better with fresh water than salt
has been independently tested by a respected only. water.
environmental test laboratory in Canada with
shocking results. A staggeringly low 0.9 parts Vapour seal None 2 seal tests during a 9 Confirms ability to seal against
per million in water of emulsifying agent “F” tests minute waiting period. hot metal and prevent vapour
escape and risk of re-ignition.
poisons 50% of the Rainbow Trout test fish
species. Incredibly low levels of this product Burnback tests None Foam blanket must withstand Critical for post fire security.
in water courses will cause fish deaths, and flame attack for at least 5
carry polluting hydrocarbons into rivers. This minutes after foam blanket
product’s manufacturer claims it to be “envi- has rested for 9 minutes from
ronment friendly” but avoids producing any fire extinguishment.
firm independent data to substantiate it! Polar solvent None AR type foams only for use Oxygenated gasoline additives are
Other synthetic based foam manufactur- tests on alcohols and other polar polar solvents, so special high
ers were facing a problem with their foam solvent fuels. performance foams may be
booster (di-ethylene glycol ether), which is required.
classified as a “hazardous substance” after Film-forming None AFFF/FFFP and AR type Film-formation provides fast fire
review by the Environmental Protection tests foams only. knockdown on shallow
Agency (EPA) in USA. Some manufacturers hydrocarbon spills.
have tried to clean up their products by re- Foam quality None Extensive tests Similar foam quality that
formulating using various propylene glycol tests extinguished the fire tests must be
ethers and called them “green foams” or reproducible from commercially
“environment friendly” versions but this available foam equipment.
“second best” approach provides little if any Induction tests None At ambient and minimum Critical to ensure the foam
environmental improvement and may lead use temperature concentrate can be adequately
to reduced fire fighting performance. There proportioned, all year round.
is not as much scientific data available on
these propylene oxide based glycol ethers Foam drum None Detailed tests to prevent Critical to ensure foam is not
tests splitting/leakage when wasted through poor quality drum
yet, to prove whether they are as bad dropped supply.
environmentally as the well documented
di-ethylene glycol ethers, but everything Foam None Foam quality tests Critical to ensure foam equipment
suggests they are likely to be. Far better to equipment Air-oven ageing tests is fit for purpose and provides
select a fire fighting foam which is com- tests Salt-spray corrosion tests foam quality capable of
Proportioning accuracy tests extinguishing fires.
pletely glycol ether free and Angus Fire’s
Plastic/rubber component tests
Tridol ATF 3-3 is one of the rare synthetic Pressure tests
based products formulated without any
glycol ethers or Alkyl Phenol Ethoxylates
(often used as film forming agents in helps reduce the amount of hydrocarbons als and imply that it is in some way suitable
AFFF/AR-AFFFs) present. the detergent would otherwise incorporate for a wide range of hydrocarbons and polar
Confused? Then always ask for proof of into the bubbles, yet it cannot stop this solvent fuels. This is misleading and poten-
toxicological and biodegradation data usu- emulsifying action completely so more fuel tially dangerous as virtually all Class A
ally found on the product’s material safety is picked up than if a completely detergent foams do not work on any polar solvents
data sheet (MSDS). If these sections are free FFFP foam were used. and should not be introduced on any metal
empty, then it is time to be suspicious! fires. It is well known that water based
MULTIPURPOSE? media are not appropriate for metal fires
ARE WETTING AGENTS REALLY and can give additional “explosive” hazards,
Multipurpose is a term widely understood jeopardising fire-fighter safety. Only spe-
FLUORINE-FREE? to apply to Class B foams in the fire indus- cialised dry powders, sand or glass beads are
Many wetting agents/emulsifiers are, but try referring to an AR foam’s ability to be the appropriate methods of control and
some are not. When analysed some of these effective on Class A materials, hydrocarbon extinction of metal fires.
products whose manufacturers claim they fuels and polar solvent fuels when applied Class A foams have been shown to
are free of fluorine additives have been through a range of application techniques require excessively high application rates of
found to contain significant quantities of including non-aspirated attack, low expan- 20 litres/min/m2 or more to be effective on
fluorocarbon surfactants. So instead of sion systems and deeper medium expansion hydrocarbon liquid fires – five times more
being SD type foams they are in fact AFFFs. layers for rapid coverage of large exposed than the application rates required for Class
AFFFs incorporate fluorocarbon surfactants areas like bund/dike areas surrounding bulk B foams. Water based products can cause
which have an important ability to reduce storage tanks. explosive results on metal fires. Several of
the surface tension of water. When mixed Several Class A foam manufacturers have these Class A emulsifiers have been found
with water, the fluorosurfactant in these begun using this multipurpose term to to be foam destructive so they can collapse
foams allows the water to penetrate car- reflect their product’s supposed ability on other foams or impair their performance by
bonaceous materials very efficiently. It also Class A, Class B and Class D (metal) materi- contamination on the ground at the inci-
Industrial
dent. If used first they could adversely field. This foam is widely applauded as Of course having the best foam concen-
affect the fire fighting ability of other Class a major step forward in overcoming one of trate is one thing, but it does have to be
B foam applications, and if used either the biggest drawbacks of existing AR foam proportioned correctly and reliably into the
alongside or afterwards could breakdown technology. Niagara is the world’s first high water supply to achieve foam application
the protective foam blanket and increase fluidity AR-FFFP without a polymer barrier onto the fire.
the risk of re-ignition potentially threaten- protecting against solvent attack. This foam
ing fire-fighter safety. is also fully tested and listed by Underwriters FOAM CONCENTRATE PROPORTIONING
Laboratories Inc.(UL) under their UL 162 Foam concentrate induction and propor-
CAN YOU REALLY EXPECT CLASS B tests, for application through portable equip- tioning systems are the means by which any
PERFORMANCE FROM WETTING AGENTS? ment, fixed foam systems and foam foam concentrate is introduced into the
Several wetting agents are being promoted as enhanced bulb sprinkler systems for use year mains water stream, to produce foam solu-
equivalent performance to Class B foams but round down to -18°C. Niagara is the first AR tion. The foam solution is then supplied to
let us examine that in a little more depth. foam to be UL listed below +1.7°C, and a finished foam maker, generator or other
UL has a standard for wetting agents and offers environmentally gentle benefits from delivery device before application onto any
there are perhaps a dozen products listed. its natural protein base material. Niagara has fire. For this reason the induction device
These tests are largely focussed on a range of also been shown to work effectively as a wet- should be considered the heart of any
Class A materials, but there is a Class B hep- ting agent on Class A materials at just 0.8% portable fixed or semi-fixed foam system.
tane fire test which is significantly different induction rate – something beyond the abil- Care must therefore be taken to ensure that
to the fire tests in the Class B foam standard ity of any polymer containing AR foam. So if the correct proportioning method is chosen.
UL 162. The table opposite shows the key you need a truly multipurpose easy handling There are a number of different ways in
differences between the two standards: foam for Class A and Class B risks all year which foam concentrate induction can be
It is therefore clear that the Class A wet- round which genuinely has low environmen- achieved, each of which has its own advan-
ting agent/emulsifier foams are not equiva- tal impact, then look no further than Niagara tages, limitations and suitability for particu-
lent to Class B foams as they do not pass AR-FFFP 3-3 from Angus Fire, the world lar applications.
any of the key criteria tests under UL 162. If leading innovators in foam technology. The different induction methods can be
they did, they would also be listed as Class B
fire fighting foam concentrates and not just
wetting agents. Angus Fire has recently
developed a modern F3 Fluorine-Free Foam
called Syndura, which is a true high perfor-
mance Class B 6% foam concentrate with- t h i gh flui
out any Fluorine but with full UL 162 1s di
listing. This product is aimed at the aviation s
’
ty
ld
Industrial
(iii) Water Motor to the proportioner at exactly the same
Systems pressure. By introducing the foam concen-
These are similar in trate, via a metering orifice, into the low
operation to (i) except pressure area at the neck of the Venturi,
that instead of using an foam concentrate and mains water are
external power source supplied to the proportioner at the same
to drive the foam pump, pressure.
a water driven Pelton When the foam solution demand
wheel motor is used changes, the pressure difference between
which is driven by a the water and foam solution will alter, but
small quantity of fire the relationship between them will remain
main water like the and be maintained.
Angus Helijector for 1% The two most commonly-found ways of
induction systems on achieving the required matching of form
Pic courtesy of Angus Fire concentrate pressure with that of the water
offshore platforms.
As such, they can stand totally indepen- at the inlet of the proportioner are either a
considered as being split into two distinct dently and require no secondary power bag tank module, or a balance valve.
categories: source.
BAG OR BLADDER TANKS
A. CONSTANT FLOW (iv) Fixed In-Line Inductors (Eductors) With a bag tank (or bladder tank), foam
This can be defined as the condition where These are probably the most commonly concentrate is stored within a butyl rubber
the foam solution demand is constant, or found units for constant flow applications bladder which is fixed inside the steel pres-
can be regarded as constant, so the flow is and provide a cost-effective, simple and sure vessel. When the system is operated,
either fully on or off. For example, where a reliable method of proportioning, foam water at fire main pressure, enters the tank
single fixed discharge device is being fed concentrate. These are usually factory cali- between the vessel wall and the rubber bag.
with foam solution like a foam branchpipe brated to meet a specific flow and pressure Foam concentrate is then expelled from the
or a foam monitor. requirement with a non corrosive 316 stain- bag into the Balanced Pressure Proportioner.
less steel body for long life. As mains pressure is used as the power
B. VARIABLE FLOW Using the Venturi principle, a low pressure source, the foam concentrate will always be
This can be defined as the condition where area is created when the mains water flow discharged at the same pressure, and any
the foam solution demand may vary across passes through the inductor nozzle. Foam variations in flow will be automatically
a wide range. For example, where a number concentrate is drawn in at this point, and compensated for.
of discharge devices maybe required to mixes with water to produce foam solution. Features of the bag tanks include:
operate independently or simultaneously. Advances in foam induction technology ● By virtue of the proportioner, foam con-
This normally relates to vehicle systems and mean that inductors can now be factory- centrate proportioning over a wide and
fixed foam systems, like tank protection calibrated for a wide range of pressure and varying range of foam solution demands
systems, monitor systes and loading bays – flow conditions within stated operating bands. can be accurately maintained.
where each one may be required to operate There are few restrictions on the down- ● Angus bag tanks can be refilled during
on any two of the three at one time, so the stream conditions which means that the operation and are designed in accor-
flow varies. common problem of mis-matching can dance with BS5500.
largely be avoided. ● They are self-contained and require no
A. The most commonly found CONSTANT The leading manufacturers have devel- external power source.
FLOW application systems are: oped computer programmes to facilitate the ● There is a minimal pressure loss across
(i) Portable In-line inductors (eductors) calibration of these inductors. One of the the proportioner.
major benefits of this program to the fire ● They are simple to install and easy to
(ii) Direct pumping professional is that the effects of changes
(iii) Water motor systems operate and they require minimum
to any of the operating conditions can be maintenance.
(iv) Fixed In-line inductors (eductors) accurately predicted. All the necessary infor- ● We have a range of sizes 450, 1125,
mation is provided to make the most effec- 2250, 3375 and 4500 litre capacity.
(i) Portable Inductors (Eductors) tive use of the water, pumping and foam
Portable inductors are probably the most resources available, whilst maintaining BALANCE VALVE
widely used form fo foam proportioning acceptable safety margins.
device. It uses the Venturi principle, a low In-line inductors are: A dedicated foam pump supplies foam con-
pressure area is created when the mains ● Reliable centrate at a continual over-pressure and a
water flow passes through the inductor noz- ● Cost-effective balance valve reduces this to the control
zle. Foam concentrate is drawn in at this ● Simple to install and maintain pressure, returning the excess flow to tank.
point, and mixes with water to produce ● Require no external power source
foam solution. There is, however, typically a 40% pres- CONCLUSIONS
The best and most accurate of these sure loss across each unit in the same way If foam proportioning systems are the “heart”
devices have separate 3%AR and 6%AR as there is with the portable inductor units. of any foam system, then the foam concen-
settings for the more viscous polymer con- trate is like the “ blood” pumping round the
taining AR type foams aswell as 3% and 6% B. VARIABLE FLOW APPLICATIONS system fighting off “external attack and
settings for standard Newtonian foams. A typical situation might be, for example, disease” from within. But like modern
(alternative 1%AR and 3%AR versions are where a number of foam cannons are locat- medicines, the selection of the right foam is
also available for 1x3 foams). ed around an installation and may be critical to be able to control and “fight off
required to operate individually, simultane- the disease” or fire attack expected.
(ii) Direct Pumping ously or in different combinations. Multi-purpose AR type foams are the
The simplest type of pump system compris- The foam concentrate induction system most versatile and the leading polymer free
es a pump designed to deliver the correct which can cater for this need for accurate technology products like Niagara can
quantity of foam concentrate at a pressure induction rates across large varying flows, is address many different types of hazard
in excess of that of the mains water. usually of the balanced pressure type, and including 1% on hydrocarbon spills, 3% on
It is common to use some type of posi- the key component is the Balanced Pressure deep seated hydrocarbon and polar solvent
tive displacement pump, powered by an Proportioner, normally made in gunmetal to fires, 3% or 6% for vapour suppression of
electric or internal combustion motor to avoid any corrosion from saline water unignited fuels or non-flammable haz-
produce a constant volumetric output at a supplies or the more aggressive synthetic ardous liquids and just 0.2–1% for Class
required pressured. detergent based foam concentrates. A/wetting and compressed air foam system
The foam concentrate is then pumped The basic design requirement is to capabilities. All other foam types have vary-
through a constant flow valve or orifice arrange the induction system so that foam ing degrees of more specialised application,
plate directly into the mains water supply. concentrate and mains water are delivered without this all purpose capability.
TOTAL
WALTHER
LÖSCHMITTEL
Foam Concentrates –
Efficiency Guaranteed
With our broad range of
synthetic and protein foam
concentrates we offer the
best choice for all purposes:
high, medium, low expansion,
or universal foams.
Extinguishing Powders
Lea Timm, 7, Having Fun Powders are the fastest
extinguishing agents.
We offer a wide range
of ABC and BC Powders.
Monitors –
Peter Timm, 48, Training Versatile and Powerful
In addition to a large number
of portable and fixed monitors
for different requirements we
offer matching accessories such
as nozzles and branch pipes.
A speciality of our monitors
with oscillation: an integrated
self-cleaning system prevents
clogging of the valve.
Inductors –
Effective and Reliable
We offer fixed and portable
inductors which are adjusted
perfectly to mix all required
agents and the corresponding
proportions.
Industrial
Industrial
Portable Pumps
transported by hand to the site of oper-
ation and which are driven by a com-
methods, the manufacturer shall, when-
ever practical, equip the machine with
The fuel system for the pump must provide
sufficient fuel for one hours running at
bustion engine. Portable pumps are devices such as noise enclosures, the rated delivery performance –
intended to be not permanently mount- silencers etc.
ed in fire-fighting and rescue service 5.2.11.1 INDEPENDENT OPERATION
vehicles. This European standard deals 5.1.6 ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY Independent operation at nominal deliv-
with significant hazards, hazardous situ- ery rate shall be ensured with a perma-
ations and events, arising from portable 5.1.6.1 GENERAL nently installed fuel tank for at least
pumps used as intended or arising from Electromagnetic emission and immunity one hour.
conditions foreseen by the manufacturer of the device shall be controlled so that The maximum weight of a portable
or the manufacturer’s authorised repre- it poses no threat to the surrounding pump is defined as –
sentative. It addresses the construction, environment, furthermore the device
setting, and operation of the portable The maximum mass with the engine
must be immune to the environment it
pump.” fully operational . . . shall not exceed
has to function in.
The CEN standards documentation 200kg
then proceeds to list the safety and pro- 5.1.6.2 RADIATED EMISSION The unit is required to be fully opera-
tective measures required, these are tional from a cold start
The device shall not interfere with any
some of the salient points – radio reception in the vicinity of the 5.2.6 COLD START
5.1.2.1 TRANSPORTING DEVICES AND device, as the operator of the device The engine shall be capable of operating
LOSS OF STABILITY shall be able to get information regard- under full load immediately after start-
ing the operation. ing from cold conditions specified in EN
The portable pump shall have carrying
handles or an adequate frame design to 1028.
transport it according to the manufac- The standards also extend to cover
turer’s manual. The handles shall be the documentation that should be
designed to withstand at least 2.5 times supplied with each pump, the in-
the mass lifted divided by the number structions must cover transport and
of carrying handles storage, description of the pump,
commissioning, startup, operation
Another area addressed is the capability and shutdown. The instructions must
of the pump to operate on an incline – of course cover maintenance, servic-
ing, faults, causes and remedies.
5.2.5.1 INCLINATION DURING OPERATION Of course, a great number of these
At nominal delivery rate the portable points are already being addressed by
pump shall be fully operational in all pump manufacturers as an integral
directions up to a slant of 15° from the part of a continuous product
horizontal. improvement policy. It is essential for
the pump manufacturer to consult
Other sections cover – the end user from the early stages of
Picture courtesy of Hale Europe new product development to ensure
5.1.2.3 MANUAL STARTING DEVICE the pump meets, and where possible,
If a manual starting device is used it The standard addresses areas such as exceeds the fire-fighter’s requirements.
shall be safe from kick back. If a handle the displays and controls – The performance and standard of
starting equipment is used it shall be portable pumps available for fire-
5.1.83 ALL INSTRUMENTS SHALL BE fighters continues to improve mainly
according to EN ISO 11102
VISIBLE FROM THE OPERATOR’S POSITION due to the combination of cus-
The noise factor is also addressed - Manual controls and other operating tomer’s expectations, competing
devices shall be easy to reach and oper- manufacturers and the introduction
5.1.5.1 NOISE REDUCTION AT SOURCE ate without unreasonable effort. of exacting European standards.
BY DESIGN
The noise at the operating position shall 5.2.14.1 OPERATING CONTROLS
be as low as practicable by design . . . All operating controls shall be capable DAVID BURTON
EN ISO 11688-1 applies. of being operated from one position Hale Products Europe LTD
(operator position).
5.1.5.2 NOISE REDUCTION BY PROTECTIVE A unit of IDEX Corporation
An adjuster for the engine speed.
MEASURES Advice for stopping the engine. An Charles Street
If it is not possible to achieve the noise actuator for suction (if required). A cold Warwick CV34 5LR
reduction at the source by design start device (if required).
Industrial
P R O D U C T P R O F I L E
Hughes CUPOLAdecon1 mass
decontamination unit decontaminate up to
300 people an hour and ensures a
speedy, reliable and robust response to
any incident.
the shelter above the top of the floor
panel. To combat this Hughes have
increased the height of the floor panels to
ensure that casualties are protected.
Flexibility in the face of a continuously
changing threat is clearly an advantage.
The CUPOLAdecon1, for example, is very
STAYING ONE
similar to the CUPOLAdecon5 but uses
longitudinal access with casualties enter-
ing and leaving through the ends of the
unit. With this arrangement several units
can be connected together on site to
form a multi-stage mass decontamina-
tion facility. One unit could be used for
STEP AHEAD
de-robing, one for showering and a third
for re-robing. This unit can also accom-
modate members of the emergency
services as well as the general public.
Although by no means the only consid-
eration, cost is nevertheless important. The
ability to get maximum benefit from any
T
he threat of terrorist attack adds to tive. Male and female casualties then pass
the potential hazards faced by through to the third and final section investment can prove a strong argument;
emergency services and the public. where they dry off and re-robe. the Hughes CUPOLAdecon2, is a perfect
New decontamination techniques have This unit has already proved to be very example. Although primarily intended for
been developed to compliment those popular, particularly in the USA, and decontaminating members of the emer-
already well practiced in industrial inci- includes several important design features gency services, it is equally capable of
dents. Equipment is constantly evolving that have evolved as a result of extensive treating members of the public. Recent tri-
not only to contend with the current sit- testing and trials in co-operation with als have indicated a potential throughput
uation but to anticipate future threats civil and military authorities. Three or of 100 people hour, more than enough for
associated with nuclear, radiological, bio- four channel variations of this basic many incidents and certainly not restricted
logical and chemical incidents. design are also available to countering the terrorist threat.
Hughes Safety Showers has used its 35 Decontamination shelters consist of a This no doubt explains why the
years experience in emergency safety frame with removable lining and the Hughes CUPOLAdecon2 is now the British
showers and decontamination systems to choice is usually between rigid or inflated Fire Service standard decontamination
develop a new generation of decontami- structures. unit, with over 200 in active service and a
nation shelters that take into account the From the outset, Hughes favoured the growing number being adopted around
potential terrorist threat. Some are inflatable option and subsequent experi- the world. It is exceptionally flexible and
designed for mass decontamination of ence has shown that shelters using this capable of responding to a wide range of
the general public, while others are for design are much easier to erect, more incidents. The ideal all round solution.
use by the emergency services for de- durable and require less training, further- Continuing development of systems
contaminating their personal protective more, they are infinitely more stable in and equipment will ensure that the emer-
clothing and small items of equipment. bad weather and strong winds. They gency services are well prepared to pro-
One of the latest mass decontamina- stand up better to repeated erection and tect themselves, and the public. Designs
tion units introduced by Hughes is the dismantling; something which is will evolve through continued experimen-
CUPOLAdecon5. It has latitudinal access inevitably necessary when training. Bent tation, experience and above all, close
which means casualties enter and leave or damaged rigid frames are notoriously co-operation with those on the front line.
through the sides of the unit. Once they difficult, if not impossible, to erect.
are inside, the entrance flaps are zipped All joints are glued and taped rather
down to provide privacy and protection than welded. This is another feature com-
For more information,
from the outside conditions. mon to the entire inflated Hughes range. please contact:
Casualties pass along one of five sepa- Contrary to what may have been expect-
rate channels, which can be designated ed before extensive trials were carried Hughes Safety Showers
for men or women. In addition, internal out, this type of joint has proved to be
partitioning can be rearranged to accom- far more durable and easier to repair than Whitefield Road
modate stretcher cases or members of the the welded alternative. Bredbury, Stockport
emergency services so that they can One of the less obvious features the Cheshire SK6 2SS, England
monitor the decontamination process. Hughes concept demonstrates is the Tel: +44 (0) 161 430 6618
Decontamination is carried out in three attention to detail necessary if decontam-
stages. In the first, casualties de-robe and ination is to be carried out successfully. Fax: +44 (0) 161 430 7928
shower with a detergent or additive in Floor panels within the shelter ensure that E-mail:
the shower water. They then move into casualties are not standing in the contam-
the centre section where they stand inated wash-off. Shelters should be posi-
sales@hughes-safety-showers.co.uk
under fresh water rinsing showers. Alter- tioned on level ground but, of course, this Website:
natively, the rinsing showers can use is not always possible and a slight incline www.hughes-safety-showers.co.uk
water, which includes a treatment addi- can soon raise run off levels at one side of
Industrial
Big Guns
By Dwight P. Williams, President, and
Kelvin M Hardingham, European, Africa
& Middle East Manager, Williams Fire &
Hazard Control, Inc.
Example:
76 m (250-ft) Diameter
on a 76 m (250-ft) diameter storage just now beginning to catch up with
tank, the same 1,892 lt/m nozzle the hazards facing the Fire Professional Storage Tank
would only supply a fraction (5%) of today. The table below is an example of In order to achieve the water/foam
the water/foam solution required – how dramatically industrial fire protec- solution volume using 1,890 lt/m (500
37,800 lpm based on 8.15 lpm per m2 tion, equipment, and apparatus have gpm) nozzles, it would require a total
(10,000 gpm @ 0.20 gpm/ft2). In real- changed over the past 25 years relative of 20 individual nozzles. However, if
ity, a master stream nozzle is not con- to the increase in hazard. 19,000 lt/m (5,000 gpm) nozzles were
sidered a “Big Gun” if it’s volume is less chosen (WF&HC 1x6 Gun automatic
than 25% of the total volume required; MISSION: EXTINGUISH THE FIRE, pressure control “Ambassador” Hydro-
hence the term “Big Gun” is relative. MINIMISE LOSS, AND MAXIMISE SAFETY Foam™ Nozzle Technology), the task
The purpose of this article is to inform In order to be successful in the mission, can be completed with two nozzles.
the fire fighting industry on the appli- many obstacles must be overcome. The use of two “Big Guns” in place of
cation of “Big Guns” and why they Large fires require large volumes of 20 smaller nozzles does not change
should be considered based on a water. Establishing a fire water system logistical problems associated with
history of success. in the time of an emergency, is a water volumes, foam concentrate sup-
plies, adequate hose supplies, etc.
Changes in Industrial Fire Protection over the past 25 years However, it greatly reduces the risk and
1976 2001 exposure to personnel while simplifying
Storage Tank Diameters 38 – 46 m (125’-150’) +105 m (+345’) operations because less equipment is
Foam Delivery Nozzles 1,890 – 3,780 lt/m < 53,000 lt/m involved, the distance from the hazard
(500 – 1,000 gpm) (< 14,000 gpm) is increased, and more water/foam
Fire Hose 65 mm (21⁄2“) 5”, 6”, 8”,10” & 12” solution is delivered to the surface.
The above paragraph states the obvi-
Standard Foam Pumpers 3,780 lt/m (1,000 gpm) – 7,500 lt/m (2,000+ gpm)
ous differences between larger nozzles
Industrial
and smaller nozzle flows. Some of the not so obvious advan-
tages include; effective range, application density, and foam
runs.
EFFECTIVE RANGE
A definite advantage in the utilization of “Big Guns” is the
additional range produced by higher flow master stream
delivery devices. 7,500 lt/m (2,000 gpm) delivery devices have
effective ranges in excess of 76 m (250-ft) and the ranges
increase as the volume increases. For example a 12 m (40-ft)
high, 76 m (250-ft) diameter storage tank in a 190 m (625-ft)
square containment dike, the distance separating the tank
shell from the 1.5 m (5-ft) high dike walls is approximately
57 m (188-ft). This means that our nozzle must be able to
provide ranges exceeding 57 m (188-ft) at a height greater
than 12 m (40-ft) just to reach over the tank wall. The foam
still has to travel some 76 m (250-ft) across the burning fuel
surface. One consideration would be to increase the size of
Pic courtesy of Williams Fire & Hazard Control Inc. the delivery device, however that may not be practical.
Extending earthen work platforms into the containment area
to be utilized for delivery device placement is an effective
way to stretch potential and maximize the resources avail-
able. Predominate wind direction is normally one of the pri-
ority criteria for placement. Other considerations, like access
and water supply are equally important. This is naturally best
identified and planned for prior to an incident during site
surveys, risk analysis, and fire pre-planning, however, many
work platforms have been excavated during emergencies.
APPLICATION DENSITY
One benefit in utilizing “Big Guns” is the increase in applica-
tion density over smaller nozzles. Application density can be
defined as the amount of water/foam solution being applied
divided by the surface area on which it is landing.
Example
A 12 m (40-ft) diameter gasoline storage tank with a full sur-
face fire would require an application of water/foam solution
at the rate of 735 lpm (201 gpm) based on 6.5 lpm per m2
(0.16 gpm/ft2). If the area of impact of water/foam solution
was the entire surface of the tank, the application density
would be 6.5 lpm per m2 (0.16 gpm/ft2). However if our
735 lpm (201 gpm) water/foam solution was localized in a
.93 m2 (10 ft2) area on the surface of the tank, our applica-
tion density would increase to 817.5 lpm (20.1 gpm/ ft2 ).
In our example above, by focusing the water/foam solution
to a small defined area we were able to increase the applica-
tion density 125 times. This increase will secure the .93 m2
(10 ft2) area rapidly. As the foam spreads across the fuel
surface it continues to secure and suppress vapors until the
entire surface area is blanketed.
FOAM RUNS
A Foam Run is the measured distance that finished foam trav-
els across a fuel’s surface. A foam blanket should not be
expected to run more than 30 m (100-ft) from the point of
impact on the surface of a burning fuel.1 Degradation of the
foam blanket due to intense heat, plunging, solubility of the
fuel, and quality of the foam concentrate will effect these
foam runs. One should consider prior to establishing a foam
attack (preferably during pre-planning) the distance that the
1Foam runs can be as low as 21 m (70-ft), on MTBE, MTBE blends, and Hot
Crude Oil
Industrial
foam blanket would have to travel once
it is on the fuel surface. A patented
methodology, coined The “Foot Print”™,
has been developed by Williams Fire
and Hazard Control, Inc. to assist in
determining these calculations.
Powerflow portables...
all you need when the pressure is on
A range of the lightest, most compact portable pumps
available today - and also the most powerful!
Powerflow 10/10 -
1000 L/min @ 10 bar
Powerflow 8/5 Compact -
800 L/min @ 5 bar
Powerflow 275 -
275 L/min @ 4.5 bar
All figures based on 3m suction lift
Industrial
with the advent of the Hydro-Chem‰ nozzle. This end-of-
line delivery device allows not only the foam concentrate to
be delivered to the self-educting nozzle remotely, >150 m
(500-ft) but allows dry chemical to be delivered through the
fire stream to the target. The water/foam stream actually car-
ries the dry chemical as far as the nozzle’s effective range.
MTBE/BLENDED GASOLINE
Another “Special Hazard” has recently been the topic of dis-
cussion; “MTBE/Blended Gasoline”. It is one more scenario
that “Big Guns” are not the total answer. Tests prove that
storage tank fires involving this product and others like it
react much the same as the non-blended hydrocarbon fires up
to the point of flame collapse. At that point, the characteris-
tics change dramatically. What you can’t see from the ground
Pic courtesy of Williams Fire & Hazard Control Inc. is the faint blue flame (known as “ghosting”) dancing on top
it must have the ability to reach high (nearly vertical) onto a of the foam blanket waiting for you to get comfortable. Until
tower, below horizontal for ground spills and manifolds, and recently you had a choice, continue foam application (plan for
traverse in excess of 45 degrees side to side. “Big Guns” rated a minimum 3-hour attack) or loose your foam blanket!
at higher flows (ie. 15,000 to 53,000 lpm [4,000-14,000 gpm]) Williams Fire & Hazard Control, Inc. has conducted large-
generally do not have the ability to go below horizontal scale fire tests on MTBE using the combination of “Big Gun”
because of the tremendous reaction-force created by such Technology and the newly released “HCAN”™ (Hydro-Chem
large volumes. This should be considered when setting up on Aerial Nozzle™, in 2,800 lpm & 3,750 lpm (750 gpm &
a large diameter >55 m (180-ft) storage tank fire involving a 1,000 gpm). These tests proved that, the proper application
manifold and ground spill fire. The nozzle(s) needed to extin- of inner wall cooling (water/foam solution) and dry chemical
guish the tank may not have the ability to go below horizon- “over the top” can successfully extinguish these exotic fires
tal enough in order to effectively cover the manifold and within a reasonable amount of time, thus reducing personnel
ground fires; therefore a smaller “Big Gun” (ie. 7,500 lpm exposure and preserving valuable resources (foam/$/R).
(2,000 gpm) may be the answer. Hydro-Chem™ nozzles are also available in a variety of rated
When manifolds are involved, they normally present another flows from hand held 225 lpm, 360 lpm & 475 lpm [60, 95,
concern; a “Three Dimensional Fire (3-D)” or “Pressure Fire”. &125 gpm] Hydro-Chem™ Handguns are not self-educting
Current technology has provided the answer to this problem nozzles) to 7,500 lpm (2,000 gpm) trailer mounted monitors.
P R O D U C T P R O F I L E
Industrial
The frontal, side and back view of the
vehicle, SWIFT
individuals will be enhanced. This system could
be linked to the hospitals through wireless
means, thus providing first hand medical infor-
mation on the casualties to pre-empt the emer-
gency departments of the injuries and necessary
follow-up. This collaboration could lead to more
SWIFT
lives being saved in a mass casualty incident.
http://www.healthstats.com.sg/cgi-bin/WB_
Validator.pl
c Other professional usages of the SWIFT
(STATION WITH IMMEDIATE The SWIFT could also be used by the military
medical support for its troops. The ease and
swiftness of deployment and redeployment of
the SWIFT increase the mobility of the vehicle,
Industrial
Industrial
sounds of safety
tion should be a system thats acknow-
ledges the need for and incorporates
sounder-beacon combination units.
Regardless of the type of sounder used
the unit must be installed correctly to
ensure maximum sound and light expo-
sure. As sounders are designed to project
a multi-directional sound, the centre of a
room or wall is the most appropriate
position for installation, though this may
vary in areas with high noise hotspots. To
check that the sounder can overcome any
existing noise, background audibility
should always be assessed before com-
mencing installation. Sounders incorpo-
Pic courtesy of Klaxon Signals
rating beacons must be visible to the eye;
in contrast there are no real height issues Conventional fire alarm sounders, such as those to alert First Aid personnel
with audible sounders. Naturally, the unit using narrow sound frequencies which to an incident within the building, or to
must be weatherproof if the sounder is to the brain cannot localise, merely alert lis- summon security staff discreetly.
be installed outside. teners to the presence of danger, giving
High current consumption has been an no information concerning the distance LEGISLATION
issue long associated with beacon use, with from or the location of the nearest emer- Legislation plays a key part in keeping
xenon beacons often drawing excessive gency exits, and therefore relying on sounders and security/safety systems up
currents and most taking large current occupants’ ability to exit using signs only. to date. For example the Construction
surges after each flash. This effect is often In order for exit sounders to be located Products Directive states that all fire
compounded when many units are used by the brain, the frequency content of sounders sold in Europe after June 2005
together: the cumulative effect can cause the sound has to be as wide as possible will have to comply with EN54. The
overloads in power supplies and sometimes (20-20,000 Hz). Sounders using direc- impact on businesses in terms of time
disrupt other parts of the system. tional sounder technology emit a broad- and costs required for product testing,
It has been very important to find an band, multi-frequency sound, commonly approvals and amendments is as yet
alternative way to accommodate visual referred to as white noise, whose direc- unknown, but the impact is certainly
signalling. In security and fire installa- tion can be easily detected by the brain. expected to be significant.
tions, for example, low current consump- Intuitively understood, a rising or falling
tion, reliability and synchronised beacon tone indicates whether to descend or The Disability Discrimination Act
flashing is paramount. ascend any stairs. (DDA), which should be in place in
Now beacons are available which use Used in conjunction with modern ana-
the UK by October 2004, will have
light emitting diodes as an alternative. logue addressable fire detection systems
LED beacons can produce light outputs a massive impact on all businesses
which can determine the source of a fire,
similar to that of their xenon equivalents a preferred evacuation route can be set regardless of trade or industry. It
for currents of around 3 mA. This allows by triggering the appropriate directional will require modification, or in some
the user to integrate these units with sounders. cases a complete overhaul, of many
sounders, lowering installation costs and Emergency warning computer software premises in order for them to be
finally making loop-powered sounder is a further step beyond the realms of the compliant with the act, with security
beacons a real option. traditional security system. Such software systems falling within the guidelines.
can enable orderly evacuations by trans- Products incorporating directional
TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION mitting tailored instructions and exit sounder technology already acknow-
Directional sounder technology is a fur- maps in front of each PC user exactly ledge the need for security systems
ther extension, which makes use of sound when they are needed; overriding what- that cater for all, regardless of dis-
for evacuation rather than an alarm. New ever is displayed on the screen. The sys- ability. An obvious example is the
types of fire alarm sounders which use tems are designed to complement audible way in which visually impaired
directional sounder technology to guide warning systems and can be configured
people can be guided away from
the occupants of a building to the emer- to warn of fire, security and other haz-
gency exits are helping to make escape danger zones by white noise gener-
ards. They can also be used to call indi-
easier. The new technology allows those viduals to help, such as fire or evacuation ated by directional sounder technol-
with impaired vision, or any occupants of wardens. ogy. Visual warning systems also
a smoke-filled building, to make a safer If fire breaks out and a building’s occu- adhere to the DDA’s guidelines by
and quicker exit in the event of an emer- pants need to evacuate, such systems can offering guidance to the hearing
gency. As fatalities in fires are often display maps, assembly points, sounds impaired. Sounder-beacons can
caused by inhalation of smoke’s poisonous and animations to aid a swift and orderly cater for many situations by offering
gases, these sounders help to save lives by exit. The programs can also be customised both audible and visual warning.
minimising evacuation time. to display other messages for any need,
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P. 53-67 23/10/06 4:17 pm Page 53
P R O D U C T P R O F I L E
Fire and Rescue Training
HA L E PRODUCTS
assembled within a rigid frame, which will
fit, into the space required for an 8 kVA
generator. The foam mix rates for Class A fires
are as low as 0.1% – 1.0%, resulting in more
efficient application of water and personnel,
EUROPE
faster knock down times, reduced water and
environmental damage. Water is supplied
either by vehicle pump or portable pump,
without any requirement for modification.
Power flow 8/5 Compact Portable
Pump
The latest version of the Power Flow 8/5
BA training
By David Carson
BA TELEMETRY SYSTEMS
The College uses the Draeger 94 plus
Breathing Apparatus set fitted with the
Bodyguard combined pressure gauge and
Distress Signal Unit system. This set has
proved itself to be reliable throughout all
the use it has been subjected to. Its main
drawback it that Bodyguard is a complex
system and needs constant practise in its
use to ensure that the general and daily
safety checks are carried out correctly.
With the regular turnover of students at
the College, who are from a variety of
backgrounds and possess a wide range of
Pic courtesy of The Fire Service College BA experience, the College has realised
that it is not always possible for suffi-
adapted to provide realistic fire behaviour and coupling designs were inadequate for cient instruction and practice time, for
training. They have been used for such in the task. To operate smoothly at 20 bars the correct use of the Bodyguard system,
the past, but high fire loading and the and to give a pulse of short duration, it to be given. The College has therefore
method of setting the fire was causing has been found that a branch with a slide modified the general safety check so those
unacceptable damage. College FBT design has distinct advantages over a students can carry out the full range of
instructors are now investigating methods ball valve. The water hammer produced required tests without incorporating all of
of building fires to give the right level of by pulsing a branch can easily burst the Bodyguards features. BA wearers who
realism within these buildings without couplings or damage pumps. Macdonald are competent in the use of Bodyguard
such damage. couplings with a screw-down lock facility can carry out the checks as normal.
produce a strong and secure option. The Draeger has recently developed the PSS
TACTICAL VENTILATION College has provided advice to a number Merlin BA Entry Control Board, which
of branch manufacturers on branch compliments the Bodyguard system. The
The College has a strong background in design requirements. One such piece of Merlin Board uses telemetry to communi-
tactical ventilation. At present it runs a advice is that, ideally, within the cone cate directly with the Bodyguard unit via
one-week course for Tactical Ventilation there should be an even distribution of an attached radio unit. This allows the
Instructors. Most courses such as FBTI water rather than just at the rim. This BA Entry Control Officer to interrogate
and core progression also receive at least would ensure that there is an optimum the Bodyguard unit to establish cylinder
a half-day input on tactical ventilation spread of small water particles to absorb contents, air consumption rate, time to
demonstrating the principles and practi- heat and control the fire gases. whistle etc. The Merlin Board also has
cal application of Positive Pressure Venti- the ability to calculate Time of Whistle.
lation. The College is looking to develop THERMAL IMAGE CAMERAS Should the Incident Commander require
the integration of fire behaviour and tac- all or part of the BA crews committed to
tical ventilation within a suitably realistic There has been little development by
the risk area, to be evacuated, then an
training environment. most Brigades into the operational use of
evacuation signal can be transmitted via
Thermal Image Cameras (TIC). A TIC is
the Merlin BA board to the Bodyguard
BRANCH DESIGN not always considered when making an
unit. Obviously, from an incident com-
initial entry despite it’s proven ability to
There is an on-going debate, between mand point of view, Merlin has the ability
provide significant assistance in quickly
various fire departments, on the most to provide the Incident Commander with
locating casualties and/or the seat of the
suitable design for a general-purpose up to date information to assist them in
fire. Reasons cited, to name a few,
fire-fighting branch. At the Fire Service making decisions and to be another valu-
include a lack of faith in reliability, con-
College the general consensus is that a able safety tool in the control of BA. It is
cerns over intrinsic safety and resistance
branch should be capable of producing a expected, within the near future, that
for moving away from traditional, proven
variety of streams ranging from fog Draeger will make a Merlin board avail-
search procedures. The latest generation
through a spray to a solid jet. For a small able for the College to assess and to
of TICs however, provide an excellent and
compartment fire, it is widely believed incorporate within the training pro-
versatile search tool. They can produce
that a 30-60 degree cone, producing a gramme. It would be of particular use for
coloured images showing temperature
fine fog of water at a flow rate of the BA Instructors course where its capa-
variation, take digital stills thereby pre-
approximately 100-150 litres per minute bilities could be tested to the full.
serving forensic information before it is
is suitable for the control of fire gases. altered by the developing fire situation
Traditionally, British fire fighters normally and can send live images via telemetry to In Conclusion
carry out an initial attack on a fire using the Incident Commander. The latter gives There are a number of areas within BA
a hose reel. This consists of a 19 mm hose the Incident Commander valuable infor- training that can and should be
with a small branch operating at approxi- mation on the fire’s development and developed. It is felt that the College has
mately 20 bars. It was quickly discovered assists in the dynamic risk assessment and the facilities and expertise to play an
at the College, when the new pulse tech- the continuous evolution of an opera- active role in any such development.
niques were introduced, that most branch tional plan.
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64 www.iffmag.com INTERNATIONAL FIRE FIGHTER
P. 53-67 10/24/06 9:56 AM Page 65
SUBJECT
This report aims to highlight some of the
key issues facing F.B.T.I’s.
BRIEF
A review of current practices and under-
standing relating to “Live fires”
TOPIC AREAS
1. Exposure to heat/ humidity
2. Exposure to products of combustion
3. Occupational health monitoring
4. Protective equipment options
5. Future trends
BACKGROUND
The issue of physiological stress was
raised during an FBI seminar held at The
Fire Service College during 1999. It was
● Date – Calendar – “Click on date” also reported a noticeable difference in
proposed that heat monitoring tests be
rather than “type in date” comfort levels and reduced recovery times.
carried out to quantify the level of expo-
● Reports – SQL One such vest is currently on trial at
sure for staff/ students.
● A graph based on a date range. the Fire Service College, with positive user
The compliance framework document
● Automatic flagging if exertion rate feedback on the reduction in exertion
provides guidance on health monitoring
exceeds pre-set threshold levels and recovery time.
for all staff involved in fire behaviour train-
● Staff health monitoring will be con-
ing. (FBT), this is further emphasised by the
ducted by a dedicated occupational RADIAL COOLING
latest home office publication on the man-
health team. Section 4.3.1 of the home office guid-
agement of heat stress during training.
● Line management will have tiered ance note mentions accelerated cooling
PRESENT access to group/individual data. as an accepted method for reducing core
● Database can be expanded to include temperature post-burn.
The Fire Service College is currently review- specific data requests (see data
ing its policy on FBT, we now have a staff A recent study proved the effectiveness
options) of simple radial cooling by immersion of
BA log, which provides a database of dura-
tion, exertion levels and recovery rates. TECHNOLOGICAL ASSISTANCE wrists in a bucket of cool water, the red
This can be further enhanced by the line is with no cooling, the others indicate
Recent developments in chemical trans- water temperature ranging from 20-10°C.
provision of ambient temperature; air flow formation have led to the production of
rates and pulse measurement, available via various devices designed to reduce core
the Draeger bodyguard, as follows: CORE TEMPERATURE COOLING TECHNIQUES
temperature of FBTI’s.
● A database to hold and report on offi-
One inherent flaw in this simple system is
cer’s use of BA equipment. The data- COOL VESTS the reliance on individuals to utilise the
base will contain a record for each A number of companies are producing facility, there are practical/time implica-
Officer with an attached table contain- this garment, using an active “water gel” tions of allowing 10+ students to gather
ing each usage of the equipment. The hermetically sealed in a flat-pack, this round buckets of water.
main form will contain these fields: can be stored in a fridge, then, prior to One option may be to adapt the cool-
● CD Number use, the packs are inserted into pockets gel for use in wrist-bands, these could be
● Exercise Type – Pull Down List Venue covering front and back torso, similar to issued to each student prior to exercise,
– Pull Down List Activity. a flak-jacket. and would provide the added benefit of
● NI Number (primary key) An evaluation was conducted during ensuring comparable cooling options for
● Exertion Rate November 1997, at the American air-force staff and students.
● Recovery Rate test centre in Texas. Ten volunteers under-
● Totals – Exertion * Recovery went heat exposure exercises, with and CARBONACEOUS FIRES vs GAS FIRES
● Duration without the vest, a 22% increase in fire- There is an on-going debate regarding the
● Comments fighters working duration was noted, they respective benefits of these two systems.
tac (°C)
tal impact with products of combustion. following training exercises, 37.5
This means that only a few sites in the this “ash” will still contain a
UK are given a license to burn. significant amount of
37.0
Another more sinister issue is the long- unburnt hydrocarbons and
term exposure to student/staff from util- should be treated with the
ising chip-board in the fire containers. same degree of concern. 36.5
A recent study has highlighted the Fire-ground staff, at the 0 5 10 15 20 25 30
Time (minutes)
potential damage to individuals from the FSC are currently provided
unburnt products of combustion. These with dust masks and gloves
include Ammonia; Hydrogen cyanide; for use during clearance operations, it could the plasma, and may interfere with brain,
formaldehyde; and methyl isocyanates. be argued that this level of protection is heart and muscle function.
All of these chemicals can enter the body inadequate, and that full CABA should be Dr. Stirling recommends 150-200 mls
through percutaneous absorption as well utilised, again this has major repercussions of fluid every 20 mins, this should con-
as inhalation and ingestion. They are in terms of time/ training requirements. tain some salt to maintain electrolyte
toxic and carcinogenic and will attack the The issues of long term health moni- balance, another option is to eat salty
liver; kidneys and central nervous system toring also need to be addressed, with snacks, but this may prove impractical on
over a long period. occupational health providing periodic the fire-ground, especially considering
The only way to achieve a “clean” burn, screening of staff, ie, on a monthly basis. the contamination issues raised earlier.
requires temperatures in excess of 750°C. She also sets a maximum fluid intake of
This is rarely achieved in the current HYDRATION POLICY 1litre per hour; any more is erring
fire behaviour units. towards excessive intake.
There has been much research in the field
The result is that students and instruc- of hydration, mainly based on persons
tors exit the unit covered in a sticky coat- involved in sports; this activity differs CONCLUSIONS
ing of chemicals, they then proceed to from our role in terms of heat exposure. The purpose of this report was to be a
remove their BA sets, take of the jacket The Home office guidance document on discussion document on some of the
and have a drink of water, and the proba- heat stress recommends a degree of water issues facing FBTI’s, I hope it will act as
bility of cross-contamination is obvious. “pre-loading” (250 ml), with rehydration a catalyst for further debate.
post-exposure an important element. The inherent risks involved in any form
RISK REDUCTION It states that cool rather than cold of fire behaviour training are well doc-
A number of options exist for reducing the drinks are preferable as these may cause umented, and the Compartment Fire
likelihood and severity of contamination. local vasoconstriction of the blood vessels Behaviour Training working group has
The first would be to remove the risk, ie; in the stomach, resulting in a slower rate been created to act as a forum for
use “clean” white wood. This has a major of absorption. One contentious comment national debate.
cost implication and would be hard to is the statement that it is not necessary to
achieve, as most wood is pressure treated provide saline solutions, as the salt concen- The role of Fire behaviour instructor is,
in some way before leaving the saw-mill. tration of sweat is less than that of blood. by its very nature an arduous one, with
Some Swedish brigades perform a par- This statement is contested by Dr. little empirical research on the long-
tial decontamination, post-exposure. The Mandy Stirling of The Leicestershire Fire term effects associated with this post.
wearers disrobe with BA still on, the items Service, she has recently released a paper We must ensure that best practice pre-
are bagged and removed for specialist entitled – “Hydration guidance – is drink- vails; this will involve collaborative
cleaning, and new kit is supplied after ing too much water dangerous” in which working and a mutual agreement that
they shower. This too has a major cost she highlights the fact that hydration by ignoring these issues we (the UKFS)
implication as well as the logistical issues. guidance by its very nature must be are leaving ourselves open to vicarious
A more cost effective compromise may general, as people differ greatly in their liability in the future.
be to apply barrier cream prior to don- fluid balance levels. Herein lays the quandary, because
ning; clean boiler suits could be issued The issue of hyponatremia (low sodium most of the effects mentioned in this
for post-exposure, surgical gloves and levels), is a potential problem if sweating report will not appear for many years,
dust-masks worn while transferring dirty profusely for long periods, with only fresh in a similar vein to the “Asbestosis”
fire-gear. Shower facilities must be water as fluid replacement. This will lead claims from rail workers.
provided close to the working area, with to dilution of the electrolyte content of
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