Emergencies 2 Add. 1 MSA Altair Gas Meter

Question 1

The MSA Altair Digital Gas Meter has been issued to all non SOC support ladder companies to increase their operational effectiveness in dealing with incidents involving natural gas. What shall it be used in conjunction with?

Answer 1

1.1
The meter does not replace existing TIFF Meters, but should be used in conjunction with the TIFF Meter as each meter possesses its own unique capabilities.

Question 2

The MSA Altair Digital Gas Meter is equipped with two sensors, one for combustible gas and the other for oxygen. What type of gas is the meter calibrated to?

Answer 2

1.2
The meter is calibrated to methane, the major component of natural gas, but is also capable of detecting other combustible gases with some variation in the accuracy of the Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) reading. Due to this variation, the
meter should NOT be used to detect gases other then natural gas.

Question 3

The MSA Altair Digital Gas Meter is activated by a single button located in the center of the meter above the LCD screen. Once activated, the meter will run through a self-check and warm-up function which takes approximately how long?

Answer 3

2.1

40 seconds. The self-check function is visible on the LCD screen of the meter.

Question 4

What does it indicate when he meter emits a vibrating pulse and flashing green LED light every 30 seconds?

Answer 4

2.1
Once activated, the meter will emit a vibrating
pulse and flashing green LED light every 30 seconds to alert user the meter is operating.

Question 5

How do you zero out meter readings?

Answer 5

2.3
To zero out the meter readings:
• Get to fresh air
• Press and hold the reset button for 3 seconds
• Press the power button to accept the reset

Question 6

Who do we notify when a MSA Altair meter malfunctions?

Answer 6

3.1
Malfunction of the meter shall be reported to the Haz-Mat Operations meter room. Meters are not to be sent through the bag for repair or replacement. Replacement meters shall be issued by Haz Mat Operations on a one-for-one basis with the replacement meter becoming the unit’s permanent meter. Units should not place identifying markings on the meter.

Question 7

The action level for indoor operations is __% LEL and outdoor operations are __% LEL.
Fill in the blanks

Answer 7

5.2
10%
20%
As these levels are approached, ventilation procedures should be initiated to reduce the
concentration of gas. Notify dispatcher of conditions, and have the utility company
respond and request an ETA. Precautionary hoseline placement should also be given
consideration.

Question 8

What do a series of crosses under the COMB/EX icon indicate on the MSA Altair Meter?

Answer 8

5.2
A series of crosses under the COMB/EX icon indicates the atmosphere is above 100% LEL. This is a flammable/explosive environment that members
should not operate in except for lifesaving purposes.

Question 9

The normal oxygen reading on the meter is ___%. The meter will read oxygen deficient or oxygen enriched atmospheres. The low oxygen level alarm is set at ___% and the high alarm level is set at ___%.
Fill in the blanks

Answer 9

6. 1
7. 8%
8. 5%
9. 0%

Question 10

A series of three crosses across the screen under
the O2 icon indicates the atmosphere is above __% oxygen
Fill in the blank

Answer 10

6.1

25%

Question 11

What shall members do upon activation of the Oxygen sensor?

Answer 11

6.1
Upon activation of the oxygen sensor, members shall don their SCBA facepiece and notify the Incident Commander of abnormal oxygen
readings on the Altair meter.