What should be used to monitor potential hazards during overhaul operations?

The use of a multi-gas meter is critical during overhaul operations to monitor potential hazards. This instrument is designed to detect a variety of gases that may be present in the environment, such as carbon monoxide, oxygen levels, and other harmful gases that can be produced by smoldering materials. Overhaul operations—where firefighters work to ensure that a fire is completely extinguished—can expose them to hidden dangers, including toxic fumes and flammable gases that are not always visible to the naked eye.

In the context of overhaul, safety is paramount, and the multi-gas meter provides real-time data that can inform firefighters whether it is safe to proceed or if an evacuation is necessary. This proactive monitoring helps ensure the safety of the personnel involved in these operations, minimizing the risk of exposure to hazardous conditions.

Other tools, such as a thermal imager, are useful for identifying hotspots and determining the location of remaining heat, but they do not provide information on air quality or toxic gas presence. Similarly, a water pressure gauge is important for fire suppression activities but does not contribute to monitoring atmospheric hazards. A smoke detector would not be effective during overhaul since it is designed for fire detection and would not necessarily provide information about the toxic environment created by combustion products.