
Control measure
Containment (Foam)
Control measure knowledge
The ability to contain foam run-off is preferable to allowing uncontrolled discharge of foam run-off to drains. Foam containment and run-off are the same as those for fire water run-off. See Fire water run-off.
Strategic actions
Develop foam procedures, which must include:
- Containment of foam run-off
- Environmental considerations
Ensure that the impacts of using foam is included for operations in and around protected sites (for example Sites of Special Scientific Interest)
Where appropriate, consult with local environment agencies, sewerage companies, and nature conservation bodies where it can be reasonably expected that the use of foam may be considered
Tactical actions
Make every effort to prevent firefighting foam entering surface and groundwater during an incident
Consider the availability of pollution control equipment and/or pollution containment facilities on site
- Consider the need to prevent foam run-off entering drains, including during make up activity
- Consider the risk to the environment caused by the use of foam verses the benefits (rapid control of the fire)
Consider the legal exemptions. See Environmental legislation
Consider carrying out an environmental analytical risk assessment
Consider informing the following organisations of the use of foam and the quantities involved:
- Relevant environment agency
- Sewerage companies (where foam is likely to enter the sewerage system)
TRAINING SPECIFICATION
Knowledge and understanding
Control measure element | Learning outcome |
---|---|
Prevention of foam other firefighting additives from entering surface and ground water |
Understand:
Refer to Hazard – Fire water run-off |
Practical application
Control measure element | Learning outcome |
---|---|
Containment (Foam) |
Demonstrate the ability to:
|
- HazardFirefighting with foam
- Control measureSubstitution