On the Use of Bench-scale Smoke Toxicity Data in Fire Hazard and Risk Assessment

Published

July 7, 2004

Author(s)

Richard G. Gann

Abstract

This paper outlines a need for accurate determination of the incapacitating potency of effluent from burning commercial products for use in fire risk and hazard analysis. Most such data will be derived from gas yield measurements in bench-scale apparatus. The process for obtaining such data, evaluating their relevance, and using them in fire risk and hazard analysis is in the process of being standardized. The text appraises various classes of bench-scale combustors, indicating their differences, and establishing the need for validation against real-scale test fires. A multi-tier approach to determining the accuracy of the effluent data is presented. It is highly likely that some of the currently used bench-scale devices are not generating technically accurate data and will need to be replaced if the hazard and risk analyses are to be defensible.

Proceedings Title

Interflam 2004

Volume

2

Conference Dates

July 5-7, 2004

Conference Location

London, UK

Pub Type

Conferences

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Keywords

fire, fire hazard, fire research, fire risk, smoke, smoke toxicity

Citation

Gann, R. (2004), On the Use of Bench-scale Smoke Toxicity Data in Fire Hazard and Risk Assessment, Interflam 2004, London, UK, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=861292 (Accessed May 12, 2026)

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