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Module 9: Control Techniques - International Association of Fire ...

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Student Text IAFF Training for Hazardous Materials: Technician©<br />

Although control techniques for drums are similar for tanks,<br />

tank breaches may be larger or require more control materials.<br />

You can purchase bandages developed specifically for<br />

use with cargo tanks or large quantities <strong>of</strong> absorbents.<br />

If the leak is above the product line, containment will be<br />

relatively easy. You will be able to apply the appropriate<br />

plug, patch and/or bandage with minimal product contact.<br />

As always, determine container integrity, especially in the<br />

area <strong>of</strong> the patch or plug. This may be difficult, however,<br />

depending on the size <strong>of</strong> the tank and location <strong>of</strong> the<br />

breach.<br />

If the leak is below the product line, significant product<br />

release may be occurring during containment operations.<br />

You may not be able to apply plugs and/or patches because<br />

<strong>of</strong> the force <strong>of</strong> product flow caused by head pressure.<br />

Containing leaks <strong>of</strong> large volume flow is difficult at best,<br />

and will result in contamination <strong>of</strong> the entry team.<br />

Another problem that may develop is the product’s reaction<br />

with the outside container. Corrosives tanks are generally<br />

stainless steel or steel construction lined with butyl rubber<br />

or some other resistant material. If an MC 312/DOT 412<br />

has had a breach in that liner, the corrosive will contact the<br />

steel outside the container and possibly work its way between<br />

the liner/tank interface, seriously reducing the structural<br />

integrity <strong>of</strong> the container.<br />

Vents/Relief Valves/Rupture Disk Leaks<br />

Vents are designed to allow normal vapor release. They are<br />

engineered to prevent leaks <strong>of</strong> liquid product if there is a<br />

rollover. If liquid is being released from a vent, it has<br />

probably failed. You must consult with container specialists<br />

and assess the risks fully to determine why the vent is<br />

leaking and the ramifications <strong>of</strong> containing the leak.<br />

Relief valves are designed to operate in case a container is<br />

overpressurized. MC 338 cargo tanks’ (cryogenic carriers)<br />

relief valves or vents normally operate as the product inside<br />

vaporizes, increasing pressure inside the vessel. If the<br />

cargo tank is not a cryogenic carrier and the relief valve is<br />

operating, you should find out why. Do not try to contain<br />

<strong>Module</strong> 9: <strong>Control</strong> <strong>Techniques</strong> 9-31

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