Fire fighting trainers' exposure to carcinogenic agents in smoke diving simulators

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Environmental Science
• Toxicology

Background:

• Firefighters face known carcinogen exposure at fire scenes.
• Exposure to carcinogens in smoke diving simulators is a significant, understudied occupational hazard.
• Biomonitoring and occupational hygiene are crucial for assessing firefighter exposure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate firefighter exposure to carcinogenic agents in smoke simulators.
• To determine the impact of burning materials, simulator types, and protective gear on exposure levels.
• To identify safer practices and materials for firefighter training.

Main Methods:

• Biomonitoring of urinary muconic acid, 1-naphthol, and 1-pyrenol.
• Dermal exposure assessment for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
• Occupational hygiene measurements for cyanides, hydrogen cyanide, PAHs, volatile organic compounds, and formaldehyde.

Main Results:

• Burning conifer plywood and chipboard resulted in the highest 1-pyrenol, benzene, and hydrogen cyanide levels.
• Burning pine, spruce, or propane showed significantly lower emissions.
• Fire house simulators had the highest dermal PAH exposure; gas simulators had the lowest.
• Wearing under gloves reduced hand PAH exposure by 80%.

Conclusions:

• Burning material and simulator type significantly influence firefighter exposure to carcinogens.
• Gas simulators and the use of under gloves offer substantial protection.
• Further research into simulator design and material selection is needed to minimize occupational risks.