5.3. Advice for Firefighters

Purpose

Section 5.3 of a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provides crucial guidance for firefighters when dealing with fires involving specific chemicals or hazardous materials. This information is essential for ensuring the safety of emergency responders and effectively managing fire incidents.

This subsection is specifically aimed at professional firefighters, including special PPE requirements and specific guidance on tackling fires involving this product. The supplier may also list precautions regarding environmental contamination from chemical-contaminated water run-off.

Firefighter protective equipment diagram

Protective Equipment

Required PPE

  • Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) with full face-piece
  • Chemical protective clothing with thermal protection
  • Fire-resistant gloves and boots
  • Helmet with face shield

Special Firefighting Procedures

Critical Procedures

  • Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders
  • Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out
  • Do not allow run-off from firefighting to enter drains or water courses
  • Withdraw immediately if rising sound from venting safety devices is heard
Firefighting tactical operations

Tactical Considerations

Safety Priorities

  • Consider evacuation if fire cannot be controlled
  • Maintain upwind position when possible
  • Establish emergency response zones
  • Monitor wind direction and potential for exposure
  • Approaching the fire from upwind to avoid toxic fumes
  • Using water spray to cool containers and prevent explosion
  • Isolating the area and denying entry to unnecessary personnel

Training Requirements

Required Training

  • Understanding chemical properties and reactions
  • Proper use of specialized firefighting equipment
  • Hazardous materials identification and risk assessment
  • Decontamination procedures

Special Precautions

Critical Risks

  • Risk of container explosion due to pressure build-up
  • Potential for rapid fire spread or intensification
  • Formation of toxic or corrosive fumes
  • Reactivity with water or other common extinguishing agents

Post-Fire Procedures

After-Action Requirements

  • Decontaminate equipment and clothing
  • Monitor area for residual hazardous materials
  • Contain and dispose of fire control water
  • Document incident and response actions
  • Proper disposal of contaminated firefighting equipment and materials
  • Monitoring for delayed effects or reignition
  • Environmental impact assessment and mitigation measures