VENTILATION

VENTILATIONNFPA Standard 1001

Fire Fighter Professional Qualifications - 2002

ObjectivesUnderstand ventilation as a

fire service toolKnow the principles,

advantages, and effects of ventilation (NFPA 1001:3-3.10a)

Objectives Identify the considerations for

proper ventilation (NFPA 1001:3-3.10a)

Identify the types of ventilation (NFPA 1001:3-3.10a, 4-3.2a)

Describe ventilation techniques (NFPA 1001:3-3.10a, 3-3.11a, 3-3.11b)

ObjectivesDescribe the need for roof

ventilation (NFPA 1001:3-3.11a, 3-3.11b,4-3.2a)

Identify safety considerations when venting (NFPA 1001:3-3.10a)

ObjectivesDescribe the obstacles to

ventilation (NFPA 1001:4-3.2a)

Identify the factors affecting ventilation

Delmar, Firefighter’s Handbook, Chapter 18

Principles, Advantages, and Effects of VentilationVentilation is the systematic removal of

the byproducts of combustion.

It relieves the structure of heat. It channels smoke out of the structure. It removes toxic gases from the

structure.

Considerations for Proper Ventilation

Vertical ventilation is the removal of heat and smoke through vertical channels.

Horizontal ventilation is the removal of smoke and gases through horizontal openings.

Types of Ventilation

Natural Opening of doors and windows Cutting a hole in the roof

Types of VentilationMechanical Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning

(HVAC) Smoke fans Positive pressure

Types of VentilationHydraulic Fog stream out a window or other

opening Smooth bore with partially opened

nozzle out a window or other opening

Ventilation TechniquesBreak windowsOpen doorsRope and a tool

For ventilating upper floor windows from above

Hook or pike poleHalliganAxe

Ventilation TechniquesPortable ladderAerial ladder tipNegative pressure ventilationPositive pressure ventilation

Introduction opening should be larger than exhaust openingCone of air should be larger than opening

Roof VentilationQuickest way is to use building features

SkylightScuttle coverBulkhead door

When making holes, cut directly over the fire when possible

Roof VentilationTypes of cuts

Expandable cutProduces hole as large as needed

Roof VentilationLouver cut

A series of cuts parallel to the roof joists, keeping them in the middle. When opened, they look like hinged louvers

Triangular cutGood for Q-decking over open web bar

joists

Roof VentilationTrench cut or Strip cut

Defensive in design and executionUsed to cut off fire extension

Examination holesKerf cut – cutting blade lowered

into roof material and pulled outTriangular cut – three intersecting kerf cuts

Safety Considerations Will ventilation permit fire to

extend? Will the escape route be cut off? Will ventilation endanger

others? Work in teams

Obstacles to Ventilation

AccessSecurity devicesHeightUnfamiliar building layoutTiming

Factors Affecting Ventilation

Partial openingsPartially broken windowsScreensRoof material

Factors Affecting Ventilation

Dropped or hanging ceilingsBuilding sizeWeatherOpening windows

Lessons Learned

Ventilation is a tool that is to be used like any other tool. It must be understood, used to its advantage, and applied carefully.

The End