Film Helps First Responders Combat Ethanol Incidents

The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) is releasing Responding to Ethanol Incidents, an educational video detailing proper materials needed to combat potential ethanol incidents.  The video is available to watch online at www.ethanolrfa.org 

The video is a technical document that is directed primarily at ethanol plant operators and first responders such as fire marshals.  It documents Ethanol Firefighting Foam test results and educates viewers on how to deal with ethanol-related spills and fires. 

To provide the information behind the video, scientific tests were conducted at Ansul Fire Technology Center in Marinette, Wis. to evaluate the effectiveness of six different types of foam.   Tests were conducted on denatured ethanol (or E95) and E10 (gasohol), using the Underwriters Laboratory 162 (UL162) Standard for Safety, Foam Equipment and Liquid Concentrates.  In addition, the film explores how ethanol-blended fuels are produced and distributed, in order to provide a comprehensive background for viewers.       

“A dedication to safety has always been the foremost concern of the U.S. ethanol industry,â€? said RFA President Bob Dinneen.  “With the industry growing at such a rapid rate, it is imperative that our nations’ first responders have the proper education and training to assist in an emergency at a moment’s notice.  By making the video available to view on our website, we hope to communicate this message to first responders who have ethanol plants in their communities.  On behalf of the RFA, I am confident that the availability of this DVD will help to combat any ethanol-related emergencies in the future.â€?

The video was funded by the RFA and produced in conjunction with International Fire Chiefs Association, General Motors, Independent Liquid Terminals Association (ALTA), ANSUL Innovative Fire Solutions, and Williams Fire & Hazard Control.