By Chris Simpson
Calls involving hazardous materials (hazmats) are low-frequency/high-risk events. There are many variables to take into consideration when working on such incidents.
A risk-based analysis should be performed at all incidents to determine the number of personnel and resources needed. An often-overlooked component of the incident is who is doing the rescuing of the technician down range in the event of an emergency. While the topic is underdiscussed, it is an important aspect of the incident. The high-risk/low-frequency events often have the most room for error.
There are different philosophies on who does the rescuing, whether it is the backup team, a rapid intervention team (RIT), or simply a hazmat rescue team. That aside, what is the best method to rescue the person and how effective and efficient is rescuing him in a timely manner?
Time is the enemy and of the essence. Project MAYDAY1 has shown the average time to get the rescue team to the hot zone is around six minutes. The times can vary based on the rescue team’s position and readiness. Then there is significant additional time in locating, packaging, and removing the patient. From medical training, we know permanent brain damage and death may occur without adequate profusion and oxygen to the brain in from four to six minutes.2
A game-changing drag rescue device is known as the FAST Board. Its application is versatile; however, with the drag blanket it is a great solution to rescuing a down member. In relation to hazmat incidents, the FAST Board can primarily be used to rescue civilians. If a civilian needs to be rescued down range in the hot zone, the rigid platform and easy connection make packaging and moving more efficient and effective in a short period of time. In regard to confined space whether from a tank, hopper, vault, or pipe, there is no changeover from a horizontal drag to a vertical lift. Furthermore, if the entry team is operating belowgrade or above-grade and even on a catwalk or tank car, you need to consider how a victim will be removed. There are many issues such as limited access when carrying and dragging will not work. Having the right piece of equipment to do the job for the limited-accessible spaces is key.
When deep inside a building, belowgrade, abovegrade, or other location down range for a considerable amount of time, air depletion is expected. While operating in such situations, more than likely fatigue will set in, possibly causing a slip, trip, or fall. In addition, a medical emergency such as dehydration, cardiac event, heat stroke, or seizure may occur.