Assessment of Occupational and Environmental Health Hazards of Firefighter Training.
Abstract
This study was designed to assess the inhalation hazards to both fire-fighters fighting personnel and the surrounding communities associated with the use of halocarbon-based firefighting agents during training exercises and actual flightline fires. The currently used agent, Halon 1211, was tested as well as two possible replacements, HCFC 123 and perfluoro- hexane. A variety of test methods was used at various locations including the upwind,- downwind, and plume zones, generally at breathing height. Volitile organic and inorganic gases were the primary targets along with potentially carcinogenic semivolitile oganics including dioxins and furans. Acid gases, including COF2, HF, HCI, and HBr, were found to exceed the immediately Dangerous to life and Health (IDLH) limits in the downwind plume. Total acid gas toxicity was similar for all three agents. High concentrations of the neat agents were also found, especially near ground levels.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA297291
Entities
People
- C. Cowherd Jr
- G. W. Schell
- R. D. Dobson
- S. W. Klamm
- T. W. Lapp
Organizations
- MRIGlobal