F-89 Emergency Action Plan (EAPD) / Fire Safety Director (FSD) Practice Exam

Why would it be correct for the EAPD to relocate tenants to upper floors during a chemical emergency?

1. The chemical is lighter than air and will rise

2. The chemical is prevented from spreading to upper floors

3. The chemical is heavier than air and will fall

4. Evacuating to upper floors is a standard protocol

The correct answer is: The chemical is heavier than air and will fall

Relocating tenants to upper floors during a chemical emergency is appropriate when the chemical in question is heavier than air. Chemicals that are denser than air tend to accumulate at lower levels, thus posing a greater risk to individuals who are situated closer to the ground. By moving tenants to upper floors, where the concentration of the hazardous chemical would be significantly lower, their safety is enhanced. This tactic serves to minimize exposure to dangerous fumes or vapors that could cause harm, making it a logical and effective response in such emergency situations. In contrast, during a chemical emergency involving substances that are lighter than air, such as gases that rise, relocating individuals to upper floors would not offer the same level of protection since those chemicals would not be confined to lower levels. Understanding the physical properties of the chemical involved is essential for making informed decisions during such an emergency, thereby ensuring the safety of tenants.