By Mark van der Feyst
Most fire departments have a positive pressure fan on one of their fire apparatus. Used properly, these fans are extremely useful for ventilating a structure. When a fan is being set up for use at the doorway, there are some safety concerns.
The first is hearing protection. The sound generated by the positive pressure fan is above acceptable levels allowed for a worker during a certain time frame. Hearing protection needs to be worn when operating these fans. The second is eye protection. The fan blades spin at a rate fast enough to pick up loose debris and project it towards the opening and sides of the fan. The firefighter standing with the fan or setting it up will at some point be exposed to flying debris. Equip a small bag or pouch with safety glasses and hearing protection and have it accompany the PPV.