Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Kyle D. Hill on April 12, 2009 at 1:49pm

We do not currently check for HCN, but that's a great idea! What monitor are you using for that and what thought process when into your selection?

We are using a RAD57 which is a device that can check SpCO (Carboxyhemoglobin) for those that have been exposed to smoke and other forms of CO, both firefighters and civilians. It also checks SpO2, amoung other things. www.masimo.com/rad-57/

Permalink Reply by Chuck Amason on October 19, 2009 at 7:32pm

Sorry for the late reply, I haven't been on here in quite a while. We are currently monitoring CO and HCN, we use single gas meters that are pretty much fool proof. Our limits are 10 for each even though the permissible limit is 25 ppm for CO. The reason is to keep it simple for everyone and only one number has to be remembered. The only major problem we have had is when operating the gas powered ppv on the fire scene CO is introduced into the structure, we have metal hoses adapted to the exhaust (the level still remains elevated). Our level must be below 10 before anyone in the structure can remove their SCBA mask for overhaul. We currently have two electric ppv fans that are carried on our manpower squads and are transitioning to this for all truck companies.