Episode Overview:

In this episode of the Industrial Strength Podcast, hosts Randy, Steve, and Jeff take a break from recounting industrial incidents to explore the rich history of their fire and hazmat department. From its early origins to modern operations, they share insights into how their department evolved into a vital part of their large industrial facility, which operates like a small city. This episode also offers personal stories from each host about how they joined the team and their roles today.

Segment Breakdown & Timestamps:

• [0:00 - 5:47] Introduction and Purpose of the Episode
• The hosts shift focus to share the history and structure of their industrial fire department.
• Overview of the facility: a large, mixed-use industrial site with thousands of workers and end-to-end production capabilities.
• [5:48 - 10:02] Origins of the Department
• The department started with independent first aid and fire brigade teams over 100 years ago.
• Hazmat capabilities emerged organically from production needs in the 1960s.
• Reorganization in the 70s consolidated EMS, fire brigade, and hazmat teams into one department.
• [10:03 - 12:37] Evolution into a Volunteer Model
• Budget cuts in the early 2000s led to the department transitioning from full-time staffing to a predominantly volunteer structure.
• Challenges of adapting to the new model and how the team maintained high standards despite the changes.
• [12:38 - 18:46] Training and Team Structure
• Description of the four teams (Fire Brigade, EMS, Hazmat, Confined Space) and their organization under captains and lieutenants.
• Overview of training schedules and certifications, including quarterly discipline-specific trainings and additional opportunities for cross-training.
• [18:47 - 21:42] Call Volume and Operational Highlights
• Call volume increased significantly in recent years, with medical and hazmat calls being the most frequent.
• Unique flexibility of the department: members can choose to join one or multiple teams based on their interests and capabilities.
• [21:43 - 32:14] Personal Histories of the Hosts
• Randy: Transitioned from chemical production to hazmat, EMS, fire brigade, and confined space. Now a captain and technical advisor for the hazmat team.
• Jeff: Started in municipal fire service, moved into industrial settings, and eventually joined the team, rising to lieutenant.
• Steve: Began as a chemical operator, joined hazmat after an on-site incident, and later expanded into EMS and confined space roles.

Key Moments:

• Evolution of the Department: From its origins over a century ago to its current structure, the department has grown to meet the unique needs of a large industrial site.
• Personal Insights: The hosts’ personal stories highlight the diverse pathways that can lead to a career in industrial fire and hazmat services.
• Adapting to Change: The department’s ability to thrive under a volunteer model demonstrates its members’ dedication and passion for safety.

Resources and References:

• OSHA 1910.120 and 1910.156: Regulations guiding the department’s hazmat and fire brigade operations.
• NFPA Guidelines: Adopted voluntarily to maintain high safety and operational standards.

Guest Bios:

• Randy: A hazmat specialist with 17 years in the department and a background in chemistry and production operations.
• Steve: A technician with expertise in chemical production and maintenance, bringing valuable hands-on knowledge to the team.
• Jeff: A veteran responder with municipal and industrial fire service experience, now a lieutenant on the team.

Concluding Notes:

This episode celebrates the department’s history and the individuals who have kept it thriving. Listeners are encouraged to share questions or stories from their own departments by emailing hazmatharder@gmail.com.

Next Episode Teaser:

In Episode 5, the team discusses preparing for and handling external assessments and audits in industrial settings. What does it take to pass with flying colors? Tune in to find out!