Innovations in protocols and technologies to improve firefighter safety

Firefighters dedicate their lives to protecting our communities and due to the nature of the job, face significant health risks due to exposure to carcinogens. The firefighting community is embracing innovative technologies and procedures to reduce these human health risks.

 

Decontamination protocols

Implementing extensive decontamination techniques is critical in reducing carcinogen exposure. Practices like gross decon (gross decontamination), also known as field decon, which involves immediately cleaning gear and equipment after an incident, are becoming largely adopted. Firefighters are also encouraged to shower within an hour to further reduce prolonged contamination.

 

Robotics and remote-controlled technology

To minimise the human health risks during firefighting, some fire and rescue departments have started to leverage robotics and remote-controlled technologies to enable firefighters to assess and fight fires from a safe standoff distance, reducing their direct exposure to hazardous fumes. The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) and Collins Fire Department in Mississippi have integrated remote-controlled firefighting robots to support their firefighting operations and reduce the human health hazards on their teams.

 

Silicone passive sampling

Innovative approaches, such as silicone passive sampling, are being used to detect the contact of chemical exposures on the skin of firefighters. This method helps to evaluate the efficacy of initiatives targeted at limiting skin contact with dangerous substances, to inform improvements in protective strategies.

 

Immersive firefighter training

To further enhance safety, immersive learning tools like Trainer are enabling firefighters to train and practice frequently in a feels-real firefighter training scenario without the associated risks of live fire exercises. Departments such as the CFA, NSW RFS and Fire Service College are leveraging Trainer as part of their training program. These immersive tools enable firefighters to hone their skills in a safe and controlled environment, preparing firefighters to effectively navigate a live training exercise, and reduce early exposure to carcinogens during training.

 

Wearable technology

Wearable devices are becoming an important tool for tracking a firefighter’s exposure to hazardous material. With the ability to collect real-time data on environmental conditions and the presence of harmful compounds, wearables allow firefighters to make informed decisions during and after a fire emergency. These technologies are being applied across departments to identify high-risk situations where heightened decontamination measures should be applied.

The implementation of modern technologies and methods aimed to decrease carcinogen exposure demonstrates a growing awareness of the human health impacts associated with firefighting. By adopting these solutions, we can better protect firefighters from the risks of their duties.