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Published works
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Australian firefighters' exposure to air toxics during bushfire burns of autumn 2005 and 2006
Title | Australian firefighters' exposure to air toxics during bushfire burns of autumn 2005 and 2006 |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2009 |
Authors | Reisen, F, Brown, SK |
Journal | Environment International |
Volume | 35 |
Issue | 2 |
Pagination | 342 - 352 |
Date Published | 02/2009 |
Abstract | Bushfire fighting is a hazardous occupation and control strategies are generally in place to minimize the hazards. However, little is known regarding firefighters' exposure to bushfire smoke, which is a complex mixture of toxic gases and particles. In Australia, during the prescribed burning season, firefighters are likely to be exposed on a regular basis to bushfire smoke, but whether these exposures affect health has yet to be determined. There are a number of factors that govern whether exposure to smoke will result in short-term and/or long-term health problems, including the concentrations of air pollutants within the breathing zone of the firefighter, the exposure duration, and health susceptibility of the individual, especially for pre-existing lung or heart disease. This paper presents measurements of firefighters' personal exposure to bushfire smoke, the first step within a risk management framework. It provides crucial information on the magnitude, extent and frequency of personal exposure to bushfire smoke for a range of typical scenarios. It is found that the primary air toxics of concern are carbon monoxide (CO), respirable particles and formaldehyde. Also, work activity is a major factor influencing exposure with exposure standards (both average and short-term limits) likely to be exceeded for activities such as suppression of spot fires, holding the fireline, and patrolling at the edge of a burn area in the urban–rural interface. |
DOI | 10.1016/j.envint.2008.08.011 |
Short Title | Environment International |
Refereed Designation | Refereed |
Published Works
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Publication Type
Journal Article
Journal Article
Publication Year
Year of Publication 2009