According
to the International Association of Fire Fighters, from 2002 to 2019,
two-thirds of career firefighter line of duty deaths were caused by
cancer.
We
know that exposure to VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) can lead to
cancer and other serious health issues. But how can you detect and
evaluate the levels of VOCs in your department or apparatus cab?
What is Air Card?
Air
Card detects elevated levels of VOCs that your crew may be exposed to.
Each card is loaded with purple pellets or beads that react to VOCs.
VOCs alter the makeup of these pellets, causing them to lose their
purple color over time.
This makes the Air Card a simple, low maintenance visual indicator of your crew’s health and safety.
How to Use the Air Card
Choose a location
Place the Air Card in a location where your team works and spends time. This can be within your station or in the apparatus.
Scan the QR Code
Scan
the QR code on your Air Card and locate your department within the
form. Occasionally, we will remind you to check on its status.
Watch Your Air Card
If
you see that the beads on the left compartment of your Air Card have
lost their purple color, scan the QR code again and log the result. Your
beads may turn a variety of colors depending on the type of VOC it is
exposed to. The main thing you are checking for is if it has lost its
purple color.
If
the beads remain purple after 30 days, it is likely that your VOCs are
under control. You should retest in about 60 days to be sure.
Evaluate Your Results
After
you submit your results, you will receive an email explaining what your
results mean along with some next steps to help protect the health of
your crew.