Workshop leaders: Dr Christina Baxter & Dr Mike Logan

There have been major changes on the way that decontamination is employed in hazmat/CBRN events over the past decade. Prior to these changes, the decontamination process had remained stagnant since WWI. With the advent of new science-based practices, confusion has often occurred when determining what approach to apply and when. This course focuses on an overarching decontamination strategy, with off-ramps along the way based upon a risk-based evaluation of the incident. Topics to be covered include process selection (wet, dry, air-based, etc.) based upon chemical; dwell times based upon chemical-decontaminant/disinfectant; appropriate applications for skin, PPE, equipment, and area; hygiene; and, verification of decontamination effectiveness.

Workshop leader: Lieutenant John Cassidy, FDNY Hazardous Materials Company 1

Lithium-Ion Batteries Impact on the Fire Ground and The Community

In New York City as of November 2023 there have been 239 fires started by lithium-ion batteries causing 127 injuries and 17 deaths for the year. Lithium-Ion batteries are a at the center of a revolution in consumer electronics, personal mobility, energy storage and electric vehicles. The adaption and growth of this new technology presents challenges for the fire service, municipal and federal governments.  The workshop will explore:

• Li-ion Battery Types Failure Mode Overview
• Impact on the Fire Ground & Fire Behavior
• Fire Operations Considerations
• Post Fire Extinguishment Considerations
• Community Risk assessment

The Fire Department City of New York (FDNY) is at the forefront of responding to the new challenges with these fires. Lieutenant John Cassidy of Hazardous Materials Company One will share lessons learned from responding to incidents and collaboration with other agencies and industry leaders.