Wildfire Season is Here
Wildfires are growing in intensity and frequency, exposing firefighters to more than just flames and heat. Each wildfire season brings significant challenges to communities exposed to a mix of airborne contaminants, toxic gases, and hazardous pollutants, leaving behind harmful residues that can impact air quality and public health.
The Hidden Hazards of Wildfire Smoke
Wildfire smoke has significant hidden hazards, including fine particulate matter (PM2.5), carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and even heavy metals released from burning structures and vehicles.
Wildland firefighters may not always have access to PPE, making exposure monitoring even more important to help safeguard their health and safety.
How SGS Can Help Monitor Firefighter Exposure to These Contaminants
We offer comprehensive testing services, along with timely sampling and accurate reporting to help provide a reliable measure of wildfire-related contamination and peace of mind when you need it most. Our testing services include:
- Air monitoring options ranging from supply pumps to passive badges to collect contaminants for lab analysis
- Portable air sampling devices that measure particulate levels and toxic gases in real time
- Analytical testing for ash and char exposure
Char and Ash Analysis Services
Timely sampling and reporting are essential to determine whether conditions allow for a safe return to the affected structure or for the submission of insurance claims.
We provide these innovative services for wildfire ash/char exposure, the built environment, and environment.
- Tape Lift Sampling Kits – an innovative approach to particulate sampling and analysis containing five ready-for-use microscope slides prepared with a specially formulated transparent tape to identify dust components during an IAQ evaluation survey.
- Microvac Media- long lasting and easy to transport, are analyzed semi-quantitatively to determine surface contamination resulting from settling dust. Utilizing a 25 mm MCE cassette, ash/char dust is collected where a tape lift kit will not reach.
SmartSense to the Rescue
Instead of waiting for lab results days later, incident commanders can now access immediate data about air quality conditions on the fire line.
This proactive approach shifts safety from reactive to preventive. SmartSense is our innovative technology to transmit data remotely, providing instant access through a secure portal. Users can set up alerts by text or email, visualize data through graphs and maps, and even integrate additional sensors for more comprehensive monitoring.
With SmartSense, you get access to real-time data connected to the cloud, and getting advanced intelligence for critical decisions. Whether you need temporary monitoring through rental units or a permanent installation, SmartSense is an affordable and effective way to assess air quality ahead of a wildfire.
SmartSense For Challenging Field Conditions
SmartSense continuous air monitoring units can be installed in remote, rugged environments where equipment must be lightweight, durable, and easy to use. Even in areas where connectivity is limited, and real-time data transmission can be difficult, SmartSense helps beat these challenges.
We provide the analytical solution you need with fast and easy-to-use reporting of your results!
The Future of Firefighter Protection
The role of industrial hygiene will continue to grow in helping safeguard firefighters. Advances in sensor technology, data analytics, and wearable devices are making it easier to track exposures without interrupting critical work.
Choose SGS
SGS’s expertise in environmental monitoring and testing ensures that you are equipped with the best tools and data to navigate the challenges posed by wildfires. Whether you’re preparing for potential risks or dealing with the aftermath, SGS is your partner in safeguarding your health.
For more information on how SGS can support you during wildfire season, contact us today.
Stay safe, stay informed, and trust SGS to help you through every step of the process!