OG 4.13 Portland Fire & Rescue Combustion Byproducts Exposure Guidelines

These flashcards encompass key terminology and concepts related to exposure reduction and safety guidelines for firefighters introduced in the operational guidelines.

Combustion Byproducts

Toxic substances produced as a result of combustion, including smoke and soot.

Exposure Reduction

Procedures to minimize exposure to toxic substances for firefighters.

Preliminary Exposure Reduction (PER)

On-scene cleaning of turnout gear with water, soap, and brush prior to leaving the scene.

Routine Cleaning

Cleaning of turnout gear using station-based extractors after exposure to smoke.

Extractor

A specialized washing machine designed for cleaning turnout gear under controlled conditions.

Advanced Cleaning

Thorough cleaning and inspection of turnout ensembles performed by an Independent Service Provider.

Specialized Cleaning

Cleaning for turnouts contaminated with hazardous materials by an Independent Service Provider.

SR-71

A low-pH, NFPA-approved soap used to break down hydrocarbons during gear cleaning.

SCBA

Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus used by firefighters to protect against toxic inhalation.

Health and Wellness Program

A program aimed at ensuring the health and safety of firefighters by minimizing exposure to carcinogens.

Carcinogenic Exposure

Contact with substances known to cause cancer, primarily through inhalation or skin contact.

NIOSH

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, providing recommendations for safety practices.

IAFF

International Association of Fire Fighters, an organization representing firefighters and advocating for their safety.

NFPA

National Fire Protection Association, a nonprofit organization that develops codes and standards for fire safety.

Effective Policy

Guidelines outlined to help reduce exposure to cancer-causing agents among firefighters.

Contaminated PPE

Personal Protective Equipment that has been exposed to hazardous substances.

Ventilation

The process of using fans or openings to remove toxic airborne substances from a fire area.

Particulate Blocking Hood (PBH)

A hood provided to firefighters as a protective measure against airborne particulates.

Rehab Unit

A designated area for firefighters to recover and complete decontamination after response.

Exposure Control Procedures

Guidelines established to manage and minimize exposure to harmful substances.

Health Risks

Potential negative health outcomes associated with excessive exposure to toxic substances.

Toxic Chemicals

Harmful substances that can cause injury or illness upon exposure.

Soot

Fine black particles produced by incomplete combustion, often containing harmful chemicals.

Fireground Operations

Activities involved in responding to and managing a fire incident.

Post-Response Procedures

Actions taken by firefighters after responding to an incident to ensure decontamination and safety.

Turnout Gear

Protective clothing worn by firefighters to shield them from heat and hazardous materials.

Ingestion Exposure

Taking in harmful substances through eating or swallowing contaminated materials.

Dermal Exposure

Contact with hazardous substances through the skin, leading to potential absorption.

First-In, First Out

A crew management strategy to minimize exposure by rotating teams frequently.

Towel Use Guidelines

Instructions on using towels for drying helmet liners during decontamination.

Particulate Contamination

Contamination resulting from fine particles that can affect health upon exposure.

Gear Extraction Process

Procedure for cleaning turnouts using specialized equipment after exposure.

Work & Supply Request

A form submitted for tracking purposes related to turnout extraction and maintenance.

Laundry Procedures

Guidelines established for cleaning contaminated firefighter uniforms and equipment.

B-Set Turnouts

A secondary set of turnout gear designated for use when primary gear is contaminated.

Gross Decontamination

Initial and rapid decontamination process intended for immediate removal of contaminants.

Technical Decontamination

More thorough decontamination procedures conducted after initial gross cleaning.

Hazard Zone

Area established to ensure safety from airborne contaminants during fire operations.

Garbage Bag Usage

Utilization of clear bags for isolating contaminated PPE during transport.

Rehabilitation Activities

Restorative actions taken by firefighters to recuperate after exposure to hazards.

Diesel Exhaust

Air contaminants generated by diesel engines, which can pose health risks.

Incident Commander

The individual in charge of managing and overseeing firefighting operations.

Injury Prevention

Strategies aimed at preventing health risks associated with firefighting duties.

Burn Rate

A measure of how quickly materials combust in a fire, affecting smoke generation.

Cleaning Substance

Any chemical or compound used for cleaning contaminated equipment or clothing.

NFPA Standards

Regulations established by the National Fire Protection Association governing fire safety.

Health Monitoring

Regular assessment and tracking of the health status of firefighters post-exposure.

Independent Service Provider

A third-party entity contracted to perform specialized cleaning services for contaminated gear.

Fire Scene Responsibilities

Duties assigned to firefighters while engaged in firefighting operations.

Occupational Health

Field of public health that focuses on preventing work-related injuries and illnesses.

Cleansing Techniques

Methods used for cleaning gear and equipment post-exposure to harmful substances.