UAS in Hazardous Materials Response: Advancing Air Monitoring for Public Safety

Florida's Southern Manatee Fire Rescue demonstrate UAS Revolutionizes HazMat Air Monitoring for Safer Responses

Introduction:

In the ever-changing landscape of hazardous materials (HazMat) response, technological advancements have played a pivotal role in reshaping tactics and operations. Among these innovations, Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) have emerged as a transformative tool, revolutionizing the way public safety agencies approach air monitoring in hazardous environments. This article delves into the critical role of UAS in air monitoring for HazMat response, highlighting its growing significance, successful implementations, challenges faced, and the promising future it holds for enhancing public safety.

The Importance of Air Monitoring in HazMat Response:

HazMat response teams have historically faced myriad challenges, from chemical manufacturing and distribution along highways to the rise of terrorism. Amidst these evolving threats, one aspect remains constant - the indispensable need for air monitoring. The systematic assessment of gases, pollutants, and contaminants in the air within hazardous environments has become a cornerstone of HazMat response operations. From confined space incidents to post-fire assessments, air monitoring plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of both responders and the public.

UAS as a Game Changer in Air Monitoring:

The integration of UAS in public safety operations has opened up new possibilities, and one of the most significant breakthroughs has been its application in air monitoring. As SMFR's UAS program expanded with each HazMat deployment, we began to recognize the potential of these aerial platforms to carry payloads effortlessly. Traditional handheld air monitoring devices could now be transported by drones into dangerous atmospheres, reducing the need for manual entry and minimizing the risk to personnel. This innovative approach proved to be a game-changer, providing real-time data that enhances situational awareness and decision-making for our responders. Instead of deploying HazMat technicians in teams of two, clad in protective suits with air monitoring equipment, drones could swiftly and efficiently identify the presence or absence of contaminants. This not only accelerated data collection but also reduced on-scene time and protected personnel from potential hazards.

Challenges and Solutions in UAS-Based Air Monitoring:

While the integration of UAS in air monitoring offered immense benefits, it came with its own set of challenges. To ensure reliable results, responders needed to address concerns related to sensor placement, rotor wash interference, and data accuracy. To overcome these hurdles, meticulous testing and validations were conducted to optimize sensor positioning and maximize the potential for detection. Among the challenges was compliance with regulatory guidelines set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which required maintaining visual lineof-sight with the UAS at all times. This restriction hindered the tactical use of drones for air monitoring, especially when landing them behind obstacles to conduct prolonged assessments. However, recent developments, such as the "Tactical Beyond Visual Line Of Sight" (T-BVLOS) waiver offered by the FAA, provided a solution to this issue, allowing for greater flexibility and expanding the possibilities for remote air monitoring.

Adapting to Changes and Embracing Innovation:

In the dynamic landscape of public safety, adaptability is paramount. Responders must be quick to embrace new technologies and explore alternative strategies to address evolving challenges. Recent drone restrictions in Florida prompted responders, particularly Southern Manatee Fire Rescue, to rethink their approach as their air monitoring tactics relied heavily on DJI drones. These restrictions necessitated a shift in strategy, leading the team to partner with Skydio and BlackLine Safety for a tailored solution.

Collaboration with Skydio offered a UAS system that suited their specific needs, while BlackLine Safety's flammable gas sensor, equipped with LTE connectivity, enabled remote data transmission back to the command post. This ingenuity allowed Southern Manatee Fire Rescue to maintain its air monitoring capabilities despite the drone restrictions, showcasing the power of innovative thinking and the resilience of public safety agencies.

The Future of UAS in HazMat Air Monitoring:

The journey of UAS in HazMat air monitoring is far from over. As technology continues to evolve, the potential for these aerial platforms to enhance public safety becomes boundless. With advancements in UAS capabilities, longer flight times, and improved sensor technologies, the possibilities for data collection and realtime assessment expand exponentially. response, UAS has emerged as a powerful ally in air monitoring, transforming the way responders approach hazardous environments. With the ability to swiftly and remotely assess air quality, UAS have significantly improved the safety and efficiency of HazMat operations. Despite the challenges, public safety agencies have demonstrated remarkable adaptability and innovation, leveraging advancements in technology to overcome obstacles and enhance their capabilities.

Looking ahead, researchers and developers are exploring more sophisticated UAS configurations, including those capable of carrying multiple sensors simultaneously. Such innovations promise to revolutionize HazMat response, transforming UAS from mere rapid assessment tools to comprehensive air monitoring systems.

As UAS technology continues to mature, collaboration between public safety agencies, industry experts, and regulatory bodies will be pivotal in shaping the future of UAS-based air monitoring. Ensuring effective data validation, adherence to safety standards, and comprehensive training for responders will be crucial in maximizing the potential of UAS for public safety.

As UAS technology continues to progress, the future holds immense promise for further advancements in air monitoring. Collaboration, research, and a commitment to safety will continue to drive the integration of UAS in public safety operations, ensuring responders have the tools they need to protect and serve their communities in the face of hazardous materials incidents.

Rich Gatanis began his career in 2003 as a Firefighter/EMT/HazMat Technician with Southern Manatee Fire Rescue located in Manatee County, Florida. In 2015, Rich took on the role of UAS Coordinator at SMFR by creating a UAS program within his agency. His innovative and forward thinking led him to develop a device that allows a drone to carry chemical, gas, and radiation detectors into an area to remotely monitor the air in real time using on-board camera systems.