Firefighters provide real-life training in Qatar

Photo By Dustin Senger | Todd Johnson, from Jacksonville, Fla, answers questions about a new confined space trainer at Camp As Sayliyah on March 25. The trainer will better prepare service members and contractors required to work in confined spaces. It is the first equipment of its kind in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. Johnson has over two years experience as a firefighter at the U.S. installation in Qatar, an emirate located on the Arabian Penninsula.  

CAMP AS SALIYAH, QATAR

03.26.2008

Story by Dustin Senger 

Area Support Group - Qatar

By Dustin Senger
Area Support Group – Qatar Public Affairs

CAMP AS SAYLIYAH, Qatar – Firefighters revealed a new confined space simulator as a major upgrade to their training program, at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, on March 25. This is the first training equipment of its kind in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. Positioned on the Arabian Peninsula, Camp As Sayliyah tenant units support USCENTCOM war fighters, to include those serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

"The original independent government estimate for obtaining the trainer was over $54,000," said Daniel Guzman, installation fire chief from New York, N.Y. "We did it all – manpower, materials and excavation – for just under $14,000 by using already available resources." The trainer provides two confined space entry tunnels – one above ground, one below. Each structure encloses a 12-foot tunnel with an emergency escape hatch, as well as suitable ventilation and cooling. "Our classroom training will continue but now we are able to utilize the training using the right equipment."

Numerous service members and contractors undergo the hazards of close-quarter conditions while performing their duties. According to the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational and Safety Health Administration, it's important for employers to identify confined spaces and their hazards; such as air quality, rescue procedures and alternate entries. The duties of supervisors, entrants and attendants must be understood. Additionally, a program has to classify permit-required confined spaces and ensure written procedures meet OSHA standards.

"Confined space entry and awareness training is an annual requirement for personnel who work in these situations," said Guzman. OSHA is the federal government agency responsible for setting standards to promote and enforce employee safety in the workplace. To meet and exceed OSHA regulations, Camp As Sayliyah firefighters and safety representatives are now able to provide documented and certified confined space training that emulates real-life scenarios.

"This trainer provides a more realistic environment," said Robert East, installation safety manager. "This is something we were not able to do before. It's great for evaluation purposes as well. While providing the training, firefighters can see if a person is okay working in confined spaces." East expects the monthly courses to attract plumbers, electricians, engineers and logisticians. Furthermore, it will also assure the firefighters meet their confined space certification requirements.

"The trainer will help build confidence using real-life scenarios. Our safety training is definitely ahead of the power curve. Now that we have this system, we are not only practicing the theory but putting it into motion as well."

• Date Taken: 03.26.2008
• Date Posted: 03.26.2008 15:42
• Story ID: 17782
• Location: CAMP AS SALIYAH, QA