Which Types Of Fire Hazards Are Firefighters Exposed?

Firefighting is an inherently dangerous occupation, with firefighters regularly confronted by life-threatening situations. But smoke and fire aren’t the only types of fire hazards that they face: toxic chemicals, which can lead to long-term health issues, are common in both residential and industrial fires as a result of the combustion of building materials, household furnishings, or flammable liquids. Therefore, effective safeguards in the form of Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) are essential to prevent firefighters from inadvertently inhaling highly dangerous toxins.

So, what are the most prominent dangers to which fire and rescue personnel may be exposed in the course of their duties?

Hazardous Chemicals

Firefighters are often exposed to chemicals during incidents which involve hazardous materials or structures with combustible products. Asbestos, lead, and ammonia, for instance, can be inhaled and, in some cases, absorbed through the skin, posing a serious risk to the long-term health and well-being of personnel. Burning synthetic materials, such as plastics and foam, at industrial or residential fires can also release toxic fumes. Over time, repeated exposure increases the risk of firefighters developing serious diseases, such as cancer or respiratory conditions, so professionally fitted respiratory protection can help prevent the inhalation of toxins.

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons

One of the most concerning chemical hazards that firefighters face is exposure to Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs), a group of over 100 different chemicals formed during the incomplete burning of organic materials such as coal, oil, gas, wood, and industrial waste. Carcinogenic and able to cause severe health problems, including bladder, skin, lung, and gastrointestinal diseases, PAHs are often inhaled during fires and can also be absorbed through the skin. While the risk of PAHs still penetrating the skin could lead to significant health risks, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as Respiratory Protective Equipment, when fitted properly, helps significantly reduce inhalation exposure to these chemicals.

Naphthalene And Benzene

Another serious threat to fire and rescue personnel comes from naphthalene and benzene, two highly volatile chemicals present in many fires. Naphthalene, found in mothballs and some insecticides, and benzene, present in fuels, solvents, degreasers, and paints, can easily vaporise and be inhaled by firefighters as well as absorbed through the skin. Both chemicals are known to cause cancer and can lead to life-limiting conditions such as leukaemia, bone marrow disease, and disorders of the immune system. The volatility of these substances means that even brief exposure can have serious long-term health consequences for firefighters, hence why PPE and an RPE offering adequate levels of protection is necessary.

Polyfluoroalkyl Substances

Firefighters may also be exposed to Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAs), which are widely recognised as carcinogenic. PFAs are often used in fire suppression foams and certain protective gear. However, these chemicals can accumulate in the body (through inhalation or skin absorption) over time and are linked to cancers of the kidney, liver, and testicles. PFAs do not easily break down in the environment or the body, making them a persistent health hazard for firefighters.

Give Your Fire And Rescue Team The Protection It Deserves

Fire respiratory protection is highly effective at preventing firefighters from inhaling dangerous chemicals and toxins at the scene of a fire, but it must be professionally face-fitted to ensure that adequate protection is provided.

To ensure your firefighting team is comprehensively protected, please book your place on our Face Fit Test course today.

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