NOTE – B-Foam use requires special training. This page is presented for basic knowledge and thinking only – it cannot be considered appropriate training for B-Foam use. CompressedAirFoam.com is not designed to be considered an adequate Class B training resource.
This should also be considered a SAFETY Hazard Topic.
How much B-Foam does it take? This is a question that often catches departments off guard.
Also know that the use of B-Foam requires math (sometimes fast math)!!!
This is the reality of Class B foam.
Here are some things that must be considered and/or calculated:
- The new FFF (Flourine Free Foams) require more concentrate and more water than used in the past.
- The new B-Foams also require new, special training.
- Is the Class B fuel contained? B-Fuels are calculated by square footage and depth.
- How long or how fast does the fuel burn? This might be calculated in inches/hour. For example: gasoline burns at 12″/hr. How fast can you calculate the burn time for a 1″ spill?
- What type of fuel is it?
- How long on average will it take to get a remediation team to your scene to make the fuel inert? Remember, the fuel is hazardous and remains hazardous until it is remediated. The department’s arrival on the scene does not always equate to remediation.
- What is the weather? Temperature, wind, RH, direct sunlight, etc. affects the bubble blanket and how long it can effectively suppress vapors. Wind can be a firefighter’s worst enemy.
- Based on the above – how many times will the foam blanket need to be reapplied? – ie. – Apply, then repeat and repeat again and again until remediation is complete.
- Do you know the 25% rule? This affects the frequencey of re-application.
How often on truck, train or airplane incidents are the flammable liquids contained in a pan (the way we train)? The B-foam quantity might increase exponentially on an uncontained, moving spill.
What is the liability for what happens if a fire, damage, death or injury occurs after your blanket dissolves and there is not enough concentrate to keep up with the situation?
This information must be considered no matter what type of fuel is encountered and no matter what specific type or brand of foam is used (Compatability required) including when using the new A/B foams. This info is a function of the B-Fuels, not the B-Foam.
