Brooklyn 12 Flashcards
In the process of mechanically ventilating subsurface structures, tactics may be employed by Utility Companies to influence the migration of sub-surface leaks by creating negative pressure between the leak and the building at risk, allowing natural gas to vent to the atmosphere in an ignition-free area. This tactic may be useful in slowing gas migration towards building basements/cellars that may be at risk and are difficult to vent and/or evacuate such as large multiple dwellings, assisted living housing, hospitals, etc. Which choice below contains incorrect information?
A: Once on scene, Utility Company personnel are responsible for mechanically ventilating outdoor, sub-surface structures. Fire Department units shall not assist in this procedure.
B: Both Con Edison Gas and National Grid have mechanical air movers that can exhaust air from sewers, manholes and subsoils via bar holes. The air movers use construction crew truck compressors to blow air through a venturi, creating a negative pressure.
C: Con Edison Gas has an intrinsically safe electric fan with a collapsible duct that can be used to exhaust air from sewers and manholes.
D: Tactics may also be employed to assist in venting by pulling air back through a subsurface structure to clear a building of natural gas so the building can be re-evaluated following evacuation. Extreme caution should be used before re-entering buildings that are in the potential blast zone.
A: Once on scene, Utility Company personnel are responsible for mechanically ventilating outdoor, sub-surface structures. Fire Department units shall not assist in this procedure.
In consultation with the Utility Company, the IC MAY deploy units to assist Utility Company personnel in mechanical ventilation of outdoor, sub-surface structures.
EP Gas 9.2.4 4
Question 2:
The Incident Commander has many things to consider at a Major Gas Emergency. Of the following choices, which is incorrect?
A: The Incident Commander should define the extent of the emergency; this is especially true for sub-surface leaks, as well as excavation accidents due to the potential for multiple leaks as a result of pipe movement.
B: Units should be deployed as necessary and may be used for, but not limited to, determining the extent of gas migration, evacuation, and/or mitigation (venting, power removal, etc.)
C: The Gas Utility Company should be contacted by the IC to define the underground infrastructure for subsurface leaks and determine any additional exposures that may be affected. This contact can be made through the Utility Company representative on the scene or by contacting the Utility Company directly from the Battalion/Division cellular phone.
D: The Utility Company’s Gas Emergency Control Center may be contacted for information as to utility runs (gas, electric and sewer) to discern where natural gas may be migrating. This may help establish priority of reconnaissance for units.
D: The Utility Company’s Gas Emergency Control Center may be contacted for information as to utility runs (gas, electric and sewer) to discern where natural gas may be migrating. This may help establish priority of reconnaissance for units.
The Utility Company’s Gas Emergency Control Center may be contacted for information as to utility runs (GAS and ELECTRIC) to discern where natural gas may be migrating. This may help establish priority of reconnaissance for units. If there are indications that natural gas is migrating through the SEWER W, NYCEM or DEP can provide information as to the run of the sewers in the area. If there are indications that natural gas is migrating via subsurface infrastructure (electric or sewer lines), buildings served by those lines should be prioritized for rapid evacuation.
EP Gas 10 1
As soon as possible after determining a Major Gas Emergency is present, boundaries of the affected area should be established. Boundaries should be relayed to all members using recognizable physical features so that the extent of the boundaries are understood. Which choice below is not in accordance with Department policy as it pertains to rapid evacuation and the potential blast zone?
A: As soon as conditions permit, the boundary should be marked with “DANGER DO NOT ENTER” tape. The extent of the boundaries should be relayed over the Department Radio for the benefit of units responding in as well as for relay to the Utility Company.
B: Units should be made aware of the potential blast zone when reporting in to the Command Post or Staging Area. Any unit assigned to operate in or near the potential blast zone should be reminded periodically of its location and boundaries by the IC.
C: Tasks should be conducted early on and initiated under the IC, usually the first arriving Battalion Chief (BC). In accordance with the anticipated life hazard, units should be assigned to initiate the rapid evacuation of occupants from within the potential blast zone.
D: In lieu of preliminary and progress reports, the IC should relay any critical information directly to the Utility Company’s Control Center via cell phone.
D: In lieu of preliminary and progress reports, the IC should relay any critical information directly to the Utility Company’s Control Center via cell phone.
In ADDITION to preliminary and progress reports, the IC should relay any critical information to the dispatcher. In ADDITION, prior to the arrival of the Utility Company on scene, the IC may contact the Utility Company’s Control Center via cell phone.
EP Gas 10 2
Which tactic below is incorrect when it comes to operations at major gas emergencies?
A: At these incidents, it is required that only Chief Officers be designated the Staging Area Manager; in no case shall a company officer be assigned this critical position.
B: Buildings may be evacuated, vented and ignition sources removed, depending on conditions, either due to the presence of natural gas or as a precaution. It is not uncommon for gas to migrate into several exposures; gas can travel far beneath the surface and enter some buildings while bypassing others.
C: Resources such as the Haz-Mat Battalion, Rescue Battalion, Haz-Mat Company 1, Haz-Mat Technician Units and Rescue Companies should be used to the fullest extent when necessary. These units will inform the IC as to how they can best be used and as they report in, should be apprised of conditions, objectives and strategies.
D: Members should access exposures to define the extent of gas migration. It is expected that units not used for rapid evacuation will perform additional evacuation as well as reconnaissance and metering of an affected structure’s points of entry and sewer traps.
A: At these incidents, it is required that only Chief Officers be designated the Staging Area Manager; in no case shall a company officer be assigned this critical position.
The OFFICER at the Staging Area will be the Staging Area Manager until relieved by an assigned Chief Officer designated the Staging Area Manager. The establishment of a Staging Area is necessary to aid in command and control due to the risks and the potential of an extensive operational area.
EP Gas 10 2, 10.1 5, 11
Chief duties at Major Gas Emergencies are critical to the overall operation. Which choice below does not contain correct information?
A: The first arriving BC will be the Incident Commander and the second arriving BC will take a position as determined by the Incident Commander. The second arriving BC should be assigned as needed and may be assigned to supervise a difficult area or task, allowing the IC to focus on strategy and evaluate the overall operation.
B: Most of the work required at Major Gas Emergencies should be accomplished by task forces or strike teams whose formation and assignment are established by the IC with subject matter expert input. The second arriving BC may be positioned where concern is greatest or coordination between groups and teams is essential.
C: The IC should use the Safety Battalion to assist in defining the potential blast zone and keep all members who are not involved in direct life-saving operations out. This should continue throughout the operation as boundaries can easily change and continuous monitoring should take place outside of the potential blast zone to ensure gas does not migrate unexpectedly and adversely change the situation.
D: The Safety Battalion may be utilized to assist in planning of strategy as well as function as a liaison with Utility Companies. The Safety Battalion may work closely with other agencies to address technical issues and problems.
D: The Safety Battalion may be utilized to assist in planning of strategy as well as function as a liaison with Utility Companies. The Safety Battalion may work closely with other agencies to address technical issues and problems.
Explanation:
The HAZ-MAT BATTALION may be utilized to assist in planning of strategy as well as function as a liaison with Utility Companies. The HAZ-MAT BATTALION may work closely with other agencies to address technical issues and problems.
D) Note: Some considerations this chief should address include:
Strategy and tactics; with estimated time frames, reconnaissance pertaining to pipe runs/types, valve locations/types, sewer runs, etc.
Compare meter reading levels and locations to re-evaluate the condition, boundaries of the leak and potential blast zone.
EP Gas 10.1
Question 6:
First responders to gas leaks should know that Con Edison Gas, Con Edison Electric, National Grid, and PSEGLI (Rockaways, electric service) will dispatch crews based on the number and nature of calls, availability of crews and the type of work crews are already dedicated to. Of the following choices, which is incorrect?
A: Early contact through the dispatcher, and directly with the Utility Company using plain speak, will facilitate a coordinated response at gas emergencies.
B: The IC should notify the dispatcher of any information critical to the ongoing operation. In addition, prior to the arrival of the Utility Company on scene, direct contact with the Utility Company is available to the IC via cell phone; Chiefs may call the Utility Company directly.
C: Utility Company phone numbers should be entered into Battalion and Division cellular phones or may be obtained from the dispatcher or NYCEM.
D: It is important to specify the need for a construction crew if the operation may require work below ground. If a curb valve/service valve fails on a low pressure system, a construction crew will be of no help and should not be requested.
D: It is important to specify the need for a construction crew if the operation may require work below ground. If a curb valve/service valve fails on a low pressure system, a construction crew will be of no help and should not be requested.
It is important to specify the need for a construction crew if the operation may require work below ground. If a curb valve/service valve fails on a low pressure system, a construction crew WILL be required.
EP Gas 11 2
Which choice below contains incorrect information regarding the Safety Battalion at a Major Gas Emergency?
A: Upon arrival of the Safety Battalion, the IC should use this chief to assist in defining the potential blast zone and keep all members who are not involved in direct life-saving operations out. This should continue throughout the operation as boundaries can easily change.
B: Continuous monitoring should take place outside of the potential blast zone to ensure gas does not migrate unexpectedly and adversely change the situation.
C: The Safety Battalion should advise the IC as to the extent of the potential blast zone, while making sure it is properly marked off and that all units and the dispatcher are notified as to the extent of the area. The Safety Battalion should not remain at this assignment but should be designated a liaison and work closely with Utility Companies.
D: The Safety Battalion should contact members to acquire gas meter readings/locations to assist in defining the extent of the potential blast zone. As mitigation progresses, the exclusion zone should get smaller
C: The Safety Battalion should advise the IC as to the extent of the potential blast zone, while making sure it is properly marked off and that all units and the dispatcher are notified as to the extent of the area. The Safety Battalion should not remain at this assignment but should be designated a liaison and work closely with Utility Companies.
The Safety Battalion should advise the IC as to the extent of the potential blast zone, while making sure it is properly marked off and that all units and the dispatcher are notified as to the extent of the area. The Safety Battalion SHOULD REMAIN at this assignment throughout the operation.
EP Gas 10.1 4
In order to operate effectively, it is important that Department members have an understanding of Utility Company capabilities and terminology. Of the following choices, which is incorrect?
A: Both Con Edison Gas and National Grid use two types of single resource crews; one is capable of assessing and working on natural gas pipe above ground, and one is in charge of natural gas pipe below ground.
B: Con Edison Gas’ above-ground branch crews are called “Gas Construction” crews. Below-ground branch crews for Con Edison Gas are called “Gas Distribution Services” crews.
C: National Grid’s above-ground branch crews are called “Customer Meter Service” crews. National Grid’s below-ground branch crews are called “Gas Field Operations” crews.
D: Calling either Utility Company for a “construction crew” should be sufficient to get a crew capable of working on pipe below-ground.
B: Con Edison Gas’ above-ground branch crews are called “Gas Construction” crews. Below-ground branch crews for Con Edison Gas are called “Gas Distribution Services” crews.
Con Edison Gas’ above-ground branch crews are called “GAS DISTRIBUTION SERVICES” or “GDS” crews. Below-ground branch crews for Con Edison Gas are called “GAS CONSTRUCTION” crews.
EP Gas 11 2
A newly promoted Battalion Chief discussing inter-agency operations at gas emergencies made one incorrect comment which can be found in which choice?
A: The IC’s use of street management will facilitate getting the Utility Company’s equipment and personnel to the point of operation.
B: Utility Company construction crews typically take longer to respond than other Utility Company personnel. There are less of them and they are often already engaged in excavation and/or large scale repair/installation work.
C: Utility Company crews are managed and coordinated by supervisors who in turn report to their control centers to update conditions, request resources and retrieve technical data on pipe runs, valve types and locations.
D: At these operations, task forces shall only consist of Fire Department personnel; Utility Company personnel are not familiar with the Incident Command System and shall not be included in Fire Department task forces.
D: At these operations, task forces shall only consist of Fire Department personnel; Utility Company personnel are not familiar with the Incident Command System and shall not be included in Fire Department task forces.
Task forces will likely consist of MIXED CREWS of FDNY members with one member from the Utility Company, to perform reconnaissance, evacuation and venting, as well as locating valves, pulling manhole covers, etc.
EP Gas 11 2
Two BCs discussing proper strategy and tactics at gas emergencies were able to identify which incorrect comment?
A: Similar to the FDNY, Utility Companies will assign more resources and build an Incident Command System based on their understanding of the incident and potential for harm and disruption of service.
B: The first Utility Company supervisor on the scene will be involved in determining the scope of the emergency, directing resources and reporting to the control center. It is likely the initial Utility Company supervisor will be moving about the incident as he/she tries to evaluate conditions and supervise workers; this creates difficulty in establishing contact early on.
C: Any unit observing the arrival of the first-on-scene Utility Company crew or supervisor should report the arrival to the dispatcher and inform the Utility Company member to remain at the Utility Company vehicle.
D: At these incidents, the NYPD can be used to assist in evacuation, control vehicle and pedestrian traffic, and request a tow or search the registration record of parked vehicles to expedite the removal of such vehicles and create access for Utility Company crews.
C: Any unit observing the arrival of the first-on-scene Utility Company crew or supervisor should report the arrival to the dispatcher and inform the Utility Company member to remain at the Utility Company vehicle.
Any unit observing the arrival of the first-on-scene Utility Company crew or supervisor should report the arrival to the IC and inform the Utility Company member to report to the FDNY IC.
EP Gas 11 2,4
New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM) can be of great assistance during a gas emergency. Which choice below contains incorrect information regarding NYCEM?
A: NYCEM can activate and coordinate resources from various agencies and parties. NYCEM personnel can often identify which person or agency (with the proper authority) to contact.
B: NYCEM can facilitate requests for rapid NYPD response to assist in pedestrian and vehicle traffic control.
C: NYCEM or the Gas Utility Companies can retrieve information as to the run of underground infrastructure, specifically water and sewer lines which both agencies will have mapped.
D: NYCEM can assist with the management of long-term operations such as disruption of street access, relocations of occupants, etc. NYCEM may be contacted through the dispatcher and by calling NYCEM Watch Command.
C: NYCEM or the Gas Utility Companies can retrieve information as to the run of underground infrastructure, specifically water and sewer lines which both agencies will have mapped.
NYCEM can retrieve information as to the run of underground infrastructure, specifically water and sewer lines which Gas Utility Companies WILL NOT have mapped.
EP Gas 11 3
Con Edison Gas routinely monitors their Gas Transmission System for the potential need of repair work and the Department plays a key role in safety during this process. Which choice below contains incorrect information regarding this procedure?
A: This is considered high hazard repair work due to the high pressure gas which can range between 240-420 psig in Manhattan, Queens and the Bronx.
B: Con Ed will notify the borough dispatcher when repair work is to be performed. Upon this notification, the borough dispatcher will assign the nearest available Battalion and HMTU.
C: When assigned, units shall respond in non-emergency mode to the incident location. The Con Ed representative will be at the location to meet the responding units for familiarization and to review aspects of the planned repair work.
D: Upon completion of the familiarization, the Battalion Chief shall notify the Deputy Chief and 1st alarm companies of the location and relevant aspects of the planned repair work. If deemed necessary, the Battalion Chief shall schedule units for additional familiarization visits.
B: Con Ed will notify the borough dispatcher when repair work is to be performed. Upon this notification, the borough dispatcher will assign the nearest available Battalion and HMTU.
Con Ed will notify the borough dispatcher when repair work is to be performed. Upon this notification, the borough dispatcher will assign the nearest available Battalion AND Engine or Ladder company for an administrative assignment.
EP Gas Add 1 1.1-2.2
The Con Ed representative will be at the location of Gas Transmission System repair work to meet responding units for familiarization and to review aspects of the planned repair work. Aspects of the planned repair work that will be reviewed at this time include all of the following except?
A: Leak repair procedures and the estimated schedule of leak repair work.
B: Fire Department response procedures.
C: Monitoring of conditions with gas meters at the area of the leak and the gas system to ensure conditions have not changed.
D: Street closures and any adverse impact on emergency/fire operations.
B: Fire Department response procedures.
Safety precautions that are being implemented.
EP Gas Add 1 2.1
The SENSIT TKX Combustible Gas Detector is a solid-state electronic, combustible gas detector. Of the following choices, which is incorrect?
A: It is carried by Battalions, Haz-Mat Co. 1, HMTU, Rescue and Ladder Companies and provides a “Geiger Counter” like ticking sound that increases in frequency when a gas source as low as 20 ppm of Methane is detected.
B: It may be used in almost any situation where combustible gas, vapor, or residues need to be located. It can detect a number of different gases as well as Carbon Monoxide.
C: A recharge (red LED) of the Detector takes 2 to 5 hours and the LED will illuminate green to indicate a fully charged battery. A fully charged battery supplies approximately 20 hours of continuous use.
D: If the LED blinks green or does not illuminate, the battery needs to be recharged. If recharging does not produce a solid green LED after 5 hours notify Haz-Mat Operations.
B: It may be used in almost any situation where combustible gas, vapor, or residues need to be located. It can detect a number of different gases as well as Carbon Monoxide.
The Detector will NOT detect Carbon Monoxide.
EP Gas Add 5 1-3
A company officer discussing the use of the Sensit TKX Combustible Gas Detector made an incorrect comment in which choice?
A: This Detector shall be used when surveying for leaks. The Altair Meter shall only be used when a leak has been found using the Sensit TKX Detector.
B: An increase in the ticking sound and flashing of the red LED indicates that you are approaching a leak. A decrease in both the ticking sound and the flashing red LED indicates that you are moving away from the leak.
C: When placed out-of-service, the on-duty officer shall call Haz-Mat Operations and request a replacement. Haz-Mat Operations shall arrange for the pick-up of the out-of-service meter and the issuing of a replacement.
D: Detectors must be stored in the carrying case when not in use to prevent damage. The probe is extremely susceptible to damage when improperly stored.
A: This Detector shall be used when surveying for leaks. The Altair Meter shall only be used when a leak has been found using the Sensit TKX Detector.
This Detector must be used IN CONJUNCTION with the Altair Meter when surveying for leaks.
C) Note: Meters shall NOT be sent through the bag. Replacement of the Lithum Ion Battery Pack is to be done by Haz-Mat Operations personnel ONLY.
EP Gas Add 5 4,5
Which choice below contains incorrect information regarding the MSA Altair Digital Gas Meter?
A: The MSA Altair Digital Gas Meter has been issued to all Engine and Ladder Companies and must be used in conjunction with the SENSIT TKX Detector.
B: The Meter is equipped with two sensors, one for combustible gas and the other for oxygen. It is calibrated to methane, the major component of natural gas, and is capable of detecting other combustible gases and should be used to detect these gases as conditions warrant.
C: Before turning the meter on, the member must be in an area free of contamination. When pressing the power button, the self-check test takes approximately 40 seconds and the screen will display “FAS” prompting the user to perform a “Fresh Air Setup” - press the power button again to perform the FAS (ensure the meter is in an area free of contamination).
D: The FAS can be bypassed by either pressing the reset (right arrow or ^) button or waiting 10 seconds. While air monitoring, the meter will emit a vibrating pulse and flashing green LED light every 30 seconds to alert the user that the meter is operating.
B: The Meter is equipped with two sensors, one for combustible gas and the other for oxygen. It is calibrated to methane, the major component of natural gas, and is capable of detecting other combustible gases and should be used to detect these gases as conditions warrant.
Although it is capable of detecting other combustible gases, the meter should NOT be used to detect gases other than natural gas.
C) Note: The FAS is used to “zero” the LEL sensor to ambient air. Not performing FAS may affect the accuracy of meter readings.
EP Gas Add 2 1.1-2.3
