At a TRI, atmospheric monitoring is begun, when applicable, during the stabilization process. For what are they monitoring?

Monitoring for any IDLH (Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health) environments is essential during the stabilization process at a Technical Rescue Incident (TRI). This is critical because IDLH environments pose a significant risk to personnel and can lead to serious injury or death if entered without proper precautions. Monitoring allows responders to gauge the levels of toxic gases, oxygen deficiency, or other hazardous conditions that could threaten safety.

In a TRI, responders need to swiftly assess the atmosphere to determine the need for protective measures, such as establishing an exclusion zone or selecting appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). The identification of any IDLH conditions gives firefighters and rescue personnel the information necessary to make informed decisions regarding their safety and the safety of potential victims, ensuring that operations can proceed as safely as possible.