NEWS
DEPARTMENTS
Decomposing Helmets
Researchers at Cairns & Brother, Inc., manufacturer of fire fighting helmets and protective clothing, have confirmed the field discovery that certain blends of synthetic hydraulic fluid in extrication devices decomposes equipment made of polycarbonate. The reaction is not restricted to immersion of the polycarbonate into the hydraulic fluid; even slight contact of the chemical with polycarbonate will trigger the decomposition process instantaneously. Company officials urge that polycarbonate helmets which have been supplied to fire departments specifically for use with extrication devices should be withdrawn from service immediately and inspected. If the hydraulic oil in the department’s extrication equipment is harmful, the helmets will evidence crazing, hazing or splotches of dull finish. If damage occurs, call or write for authorization to return the helmets for inspection and testing. Also contact the extrications device manufacturer to determine if the oil is harmful to your head and face/eye protective equipment.
So far testing has discovered at least one non-synthetic oil in use with extrication equipment which will perform adequately and pose no danger to polycarbonate helmets and face/eye shields or glasses. If difficulties arise in determining the type of oil you are using, fire departments are advised to contact Cairns’ customer service for complete details.
It is important to note that although wearing helmets with wraparound face shields is popular when using extrication devices, the protection afforded will be negated if the hydraulic fluid in question comes in contact with the helmet or face shield in any way. Officials explain that because of quick-disconnect capabilities for ease in using various blades on a number of brands of such rescue equipment, hydraulic fluid often leaks and splatters. This can create a dangerous situation if the fire fighter is wearing polycarbonate protective equipment.
While tests are continuing Cairns & Brother urge fire fighters to wear safety glasses, and switch wherever possible to the new, chemical insensitive fiberglass helmets, such as the 660C Metro, for use in conjunction with extrication equipment.
Catalog of American National Standards
The 1983 Edition of the Catalog of American National Standards is now available from the American National Standards Institute. The 192-page catalog lists 10,000 current ANSI-approved standards establishing dimensions, ratings, terminology and symbols, test methods, and performance and safety requirements for materials, equipment, and products.
Institute members and libraries that serve, the general public receive the catalog and its supplements free. Nonmembers may obtain a copy and supplements from ANSI’s Sales Dept, for $10.
Respirator Update
In our last issue we posted information on defects found in the Robertshaw RAM-5 SCBA and Respirator MSHA/NIOSH approval no. TC-13F-64. The latest information we have received is as follows: Robertshaw and Life Support Products have informed NIOSH that the hose defect was caused by abrasion during assembly and the free-flowing regulator was the result of excessive use of sealant during assembly. Life Support Products, who now makes the RAM-5 respirator, has made changes in assembly procedures to prevent recurrence of these problems.
Instructions have been prepared describing inspection and testing procedures of the RAM-5 respirators to determine if they have any defects.
- Plug the SAR connection into an external air supply and pressurize to 125 psi.
- With the mask off the head, the regulator should be freely flowing air. Once the mask is canned, and the wearer momentarily holds his breath, the airflow should stop. When the wearer starts to breathe, air should be supplied on demand. If the unit does not operate on demand but flows air continuously, return the unit to Robertshaw or Life Support Products for repair.
- To check hose for possible damage, use a leak detection solution on both end connections of the hose assembly. If there is a leak, return the unit to Robertshaw or to Life Support Products for repair.
NIOSH is satisfied that the procedures recommended by Robertshaw and Life Support Products adequately address the concerns NIOSH had with this device. NIOSH sees no reason why RAM-5 respirators which perform satisfactorily during the recommended tests should not be put back into service. RAM-5 respirators which do not perform satisfactorily during the recommended tests should be returned to the distributor from which they were purchased or to Robershaw Controls Company (Norm Beaman, 333 N. Euclid Way, Anaheim, CA 92803, 714-535-8151) or to Life Support Products (Patrick Mansfield, 1340 N. )efferson St., Anaheim, CA 92806,714-996-6700). The manufacturers will pay shipping costs for all defective respirators.
