The Dangers of Diesel Exhaust Inside the Fire Station
Diesel exhaust in firehouses has been and continues to be a problem for many firefighters. A diesel-powered apparatus generates exhaust whenever it leaves or returns to a station. If not properly captured, this exhaust will not only enter the apparatus bay but also the firefighters’ living quarters. As a result, firefighters can be exposed to diesel exhaust for a significant portion of their shifts. Scientific evidence suggests an association between lung cancer and occupational exposure to diesel exhaust emissions.
Why DPF Filters Aren’t Enough
NIOSH states there can be no safe level of exposure to a carcinogen. A DPF filter was designed to cut down on outside emissions firetrucks were putting into the air. While it does reduce diesel exhaust fumes going into the fire station, DPF’s have a limited capacity – leaving hazards remaining. DPF filters also rely on the firetrucks engine to run, and often times when firetrucks return to the station or come back from a short run, the engine is not hot enough for the DPF to work correctly – putting exhaust fumes into the air.
Protecting Your Fire Station
When it comes to eliminating firefighters’ exposure to cancer causing toxins from diesel exhaust fumes, ‘almost’, ‘nearly,’ and ‘virtually’ aren’t good enough. The combination of exhaust removal systems and air purification systems is the most complete protection you can get in eliminating 100% of all cancer-causing toxins from within your fire station.
How Can I Purchase an Exhaust Removal System?
Fire stations all over the country have been obtaining exhaust removal systems through local grants or federal grants such as FEMA’s AFG. With AFG approaching, you need to prepare now so you are able to apply for a AFG grant when they start accepting applications. MagneGrip – the ONLY vehicle exhaust removal system to eliminate 100% of diesel exhaust toxins – offers FREE Grant Assistance and has put together a FREE Grant Processing Guide to help you secure funding. Download MagneGrip’s FREE Grant Guide to prepare today.
