Protection from Hazards in the Post Fire Environment

Following a fire event, a variety of people spend considerable time in the post-fire environment. In addition to first responders, fire and law enforcement, the individuals performing investigations in the property can include insurance claims adjusters, origin and cause fire investigators, inventory assessors, and damage assessors. The fire service, EMS and law enforcement may typically be assumed to be wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), but exposure to post fire hazards should be considered for those entering the property and performing work well after the fire event.

Many exposure hazards can exist in a post fire setting independent of the property’s age. Gasses, vapors and chemical hazards may be present in levels that can cause adverse health effects. Additionally, suspended particulates may include polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), asbestos and other hazardous materials. These hazards are not necessarily limited to the immediate area of the fire, as particulates can remain airborne for long periods of time and be re-entrained in the air with any air movement.