Posted August 17, 2022

RECOMMENDATIONS:

The NIOSH Fire Fighter Fatality Investigation and Prevention Program
(FFFIPP) recommends fire departments ensure all firefighters responding to
natural gas and propane incidents are trained to:

 Interpret data from their specific multi-gas monitors to determine if
a hazardous atmosphere is present. This can include low oxygen
levels or dangerous concentrations of carbon monoxide, hydrogen
sulfide, or other toxic gases.

 Calibrate and maintain gas detection equipment properly by
performing bump testing at the beginning of each shift following
manufacturer’s guidance.

 Use of gas detection equipment under a wide variety of conditions
including when at the lower explosive limit (LEL) and upper explosive
limit (UEL) of a gas or vapor.

 Utilize multi-gas monitor readings to establish isolation zones and
ensure a continuous risk assessment is conducted throughout the
incident.

Executive Summary (cdc.gov)