Case Study: Enhancing Firefighter Safety: Comprehensive Diesel Fumes Safety Audit by Sysco Environmental Ltd

Sysco Environmental Ltd conducted a comprehensive diesel fumes air quality assessment for Fire and Rescue Services. The primary objective was to evaluate the levels of diesel fumes emitted during emergency vehicle operations, necessary vehicle maintenance, engine start-up, and idling, and to assess the potential health risks to firefighters.

Emergency vehicles, including fire engines, are critical components of fire and rescue services, ensuring rapid response and operational readiness during emergencies. These vehicles are typically powered by diesel engines due to their reliability and ability to generate substantial power quickly. However, diesel engine emissions pose significant health risks, especially in confined spaces like fire station garages.

To ensure operational readiness and safety, fire engines are regularly maintained and tested. Standard practice involves routine maintenance, engine start-up, and idling, which can lead to the accumulation of diesel fumes in the vehicle bays. Although the vehicles are equipped with exhaust systems, any leaks or inefficiencies can result in the ingress of harmful emissions into the workspace.
 

Understanding the Full Scope of Inhalation Risks in Firefighting

In addition to diesel exhaust fumes, firefighters are exposed to numerous other potential inhalation risks. These include primarily smoke inhalation, which involves exposure to toxic gases and particulate matter from burning materials, and toxic gases such as hydrogen cyanide and phosgene, produced during the combustion of nitrogen-containing materials and refrigerants, respectively. Asbestos fibres, often released during fires or demolition in older buildings, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from incomplete combustion also pose significant risks. Furthermore, silica dust generated during activities like cutting or drilling concrete, and various industrial chemicals encountered during fire incidents in industrial settings, add to the array of hazards. Although these risks were not the primary objectives of our study, it is crucial to note that firefighters are suitably equipped, trained, and protected to deal with these hazards in critical situations. However, situations such as routine vehicle maintenance and engine idling, while not inherently considered dangerous, can pose significant health risks over time if not properly assessed and mitigated.

Air Monitoring Methodology

 
Sysco Environmental Ltd employed a multi-faceted approach to evaluate personal exposure to diesel exhaust fumes and other hazardous substances during vehicle operations. The methodology involved the use of personal samplers, portable meters, and dataloggers to provide a comprehensive assessment of air quality in the vehicle bays. The monitoring was carried out over a continuous five-day working period to gain robust data about the variability of exposures, as some days may be exceedingly busy and some may be relatively quiet. This approach is particularly relevant to smaller and more remote fire stations, where incidents may not be as frequent. By monitoring over several days, the assessment captured a wide range of operational conditions, ensuring that both peak exposure periods during high activity and lower exposure periods during quieter times were accurately represented. This comprehensive monitoring strategy provided a thorough understanding of the air quality and potential inhalation risks faced by firefighters in different operational scenarios.

Airborne particulates, significant components of diesel exhaust, were monitored using portable meters and dataloggers strategically placed in the vehicle bays. These instruments measured gases such as carbon monoxide (CO) and particulate matter, providing continuous monitoring and real-time data. This approach offered detailed insights into temporal variations and peak concentrations during vehicle operations.

Portable Meters and Dataloggers: Portable meters and dataloggers were utilised to measure the levels of hazardous gases and particulates. These instruments ensured continuous monitoring, offering valuable real-time data on air quality.

Carbon Monoxide: Direct reading instruments were used to measure CO levels, providing immediate feedback on air quality within the vehicle bays.

Particulate Matter: Portable monitors assessed the levels of airborne particulates, including PM10 and PM2.5, which are known to have adverse health effects. 

Health Effects of Diesel Engine Exhaust Emissions (DEEEs)

Diesel engine exhaust emissions (DEEEs) consist of a complex mixture of gases, vapours, liquid aerosols, and particulate matter. Acute exposure to these fumes can cause irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract, while chronic exposure increases the risk of lung cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies DEEEs as Group 1 carcinogens, indicating a definite link to cancer in humans.

Fume Air Monitoring Results

The air monitoring results indicated that the concentrations of elemental carbon, total carbon, and carbon monoxide did not exceed the workplace exposure limits (WELs). These findings suggest that the risk of exposure to hazardous substances during vehicle operations at Fire Station is minimal. However, the data revealed variability in contaminant concentrations, particularly during busy periods when there were frequent short-duration spikes in the levels of various contaminants. These spikes, while significant, dissipated fairly quickly due to effective ventilation and other control measures.

The importance of collecting a robust data set over multiple days cannot be overstated. Monitoring over a continuous five-day period allowed for the capture of both peak exposure periods and quieter times, providing a comprehensive picture of the air quality within the station. This variability is particularly relevant for smaller and more remote fire stations, where operational activities can fluctuate significantly. 

Having such a detailed and extensive data set is crucial for making informed decisions in occupational hygiene. It ensures that safety measures can be appropriately tailored to the actual conditions experienced by firefighters, rather than based on sporadic or insufficient data. This thorough approach helps in identifying and mitigating potential risks more effectively, ensuring that the health and safety protocols in place are both adequate and reliable. Consequently, the monitoring results not only confirm current safety standards but also provide a solid foundation for continuous improvement in workplace safety and health management.
 

Exhaust Emission Monitoring Recommendations

 
Based on the assessment, Sysco Environmental Ltd provided several recommendations to enhance safety and compliance:
 
Inspection and Maintenance: Regular servicing and maintenance of vehicle engines and catalytic converters are essential to ensure optimal performance and reduce emissions.

Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) Systems: LEV systems are an important control measure during vehicle maintenance to effectively manage exhaust fumes. However, during the start-up and return phases of operations, the assessment found that these systems were not necessary. This simplifies the process while still ensuring that personnel are adequately protected. It is recommended to examine and test LEV systems regularly according to COSHH regulations.

General Ventilation Systems: Where possible, keeping doors and windows open when engines are running helps improve ventilation and reduce the accumulation of exhaust fumes.

Engine Idling: Turning off vehicle engines when not required is a simple yet effective measure to minimise exposure to diesel exhaust emissions.

 Our Diesel Exhaust Fumes Audit Conclusions and Benefits

The exhaust fumes air quality assessment by Sysco Environmental Ltd confirmed that the working environment within the fire station is safe concerning diesel exhaust emissions. Through comprehensive monitoring and data analysis, we clearly demonstrated that exposure to diesel fumes is minimal within the confines of the fire station. This robust data set validates that the implemented control measures are effective and that the risk to personnel is low.

Our findings not only ensure regulatory compliance and protect health but also verify the safe operation of essential equipment. By identifying that Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) systems are not necessary during the start-up and return phases of vehicle operations, we have helped to simplify operational procedures and reduce maintenance costs.

This proactive approach underscores a strong commitment to managing environmental and occupational health risks. It enhances the overall safety and operational integrity of the fire station, ensuring that firefighters can perform their duties in a safe environment. Moreover, by streamlining operations and reducing unnecessary maintenance expenses, we contribute to more efficient resource allocation and operational sustainability. This comprehensive strategy fosters a safer, healthier workplace and reinforces the fire st