Make sure we`re part of the solution, not the problem
Richard E. Shea
Firefighter
Windsor (CT) Fire Department
Recently, my company responded to a carbon monoxide detector activation in a residential neighborhood within our district. On arrival, we noted that the call was in a split-level, ranch-style dwelling with the bedrooms located above a two-car garage. The building had been evacuated prior to our arrival, and EMS was attending to the two occupants.
My partner and I donned our SCBAs and, after calibrating our meter, entered the residence via the garage. Our meter immediately began to register high concentrations of CO (63 ppm). We then ascended to the second floor, where we encountered readings of 83 ppm in the bedrooms above the garage.
After ascertaining the source of the CO, we began ventilation via use of a gas-powered PPV fan. Through natural air movements, the CO concentration dropped from 83 ppm to approximately 50 ppm. However, when the fan was placed into operation, the exhaust from the fan was blown into the residence, thus increasing the CO level.
The following thoughts came to mind after the gas-powered fan was removed and the old reliable electric fan had been placed in operation.
1. The importance of metering for hazardous atmospheres not only in scenarios such as this but also during overhaul operations is paramount. However, we must now also take into consideration tools used for ventilation. Gas-powered fans are very effective for removing smoke and heated air. But departments must be careful that they are not issuing one of the more common deadly gases into an overhaul area. It is easy to fall into the trap of “no fire, no smoke, no need for an SCBA.”
2. Manufacturers must take into consideration the question “Where is the exhaust going?” Remember that the fan is going to cause turbulence in the air around the actual unit. The fan may and will draw its own exhaust fumes into the fan and push them into the area being ventilated.
3. If you are ready to send your old worn electric fans to a local museum–don`t. Remember, there is no such thing as “the best tool” period, but there will always be “the best tool for this particular job.”
I urge other departments who employ gas-powered fans regularly during any ventilation process to test those units to make sure they do not achieve the same undesirable results we achieved on this call. It would be ironic and foolish if we, in an occupation where safety is stressed so highly, were putting people at risk without even knowing it.
