Innovative Ro/Ro container for the decontamination of emergency services for the Chemiepark Knapsack fire department!

EMPL, known for its individual special solutions, recently delivered an innovative Ro/Ro decontamination container to the factory fire department at the Chemiepark Knapsack. The roll-on / roll-off container has some unusual features.

Due to increasing requirements for the decontamination of emergency services after operations under hazmat suits, EMPL has developed a special kind of Ro/Ro decontamination container (roll-on / roll-off container) together with the Chemiepark Knapsack factory fire department.

“From the initial laying out of the floor plans using fire brigade lines to complex 3D drawings, the final product was impressive with the details implemented.”

Kevin Kosinski, Head of Technology Department, Chemiepark Knapsack Fire Department

Chemiepark Knapsack
Yncoris operates the 180-hectare chemical park Knapsack in North Rhine-Westphalia. Around 30 companies from the chemical industry are located on the extensive site and benefit from the centrally provided infrastructure and services. The company fire department based there plays a key role in the development and implementation of the safety concept.

Improving decontamination efficiency
In order to meet the requirements of the fire protection and development plan and to ensure the safety of the emergency services, rapid and efficient decontamination must be ensured. It is required that a functioning decontamination station is available no later than 15 minutes after hazmat troops are deployed.

With a small roll container decontamination from EMPL, a practical solution was already in use at the Chemiepark Knapsack fire department. This roll container includes all the necessary materials, from tarpaulins and shower tents to spare and protective clothing. Despite its comprehensive features, the RC decon does not offer any protection against external influences, does not collect all the wastewater and always requires a supporting vehicle to supply the decontamination site with water.

Although the time frame for decontamination is adhered to, the operation requires a complete squadron in accordance with the fire service regulations FwDV 500. This personnel expenditure presents many fire departments – be they voluntary, full-time or company fire departments – with major challenges. Particularly in long-term hazmat operations in which several squads are deployed, constant squadron changes are required, which puts a great strain on resources. For this reason, a Ro/Ro decontamination container was developed specifically with and for the needs of the plant fire department. This Ro/Ro container sets new standards in the efficiency, safety and flexibility of decontamination for fire and security teams working in extreme conditions.

Advanced technology for optimized water and wastewater treatment
The container is equipped with a built-in water tank that stores enough fresh water to decontaminate up to 10 people. In addition, it collects contaminated wastewater in a special wastewater tank on a small roll container, which can later be safely disposed of and cleaned by a specialist company. The small roll container is moved out of the Ro/Ro container and remains directly at the place of use. This guarantees safe and efficient operation, without additional support from external vehicles.

Safe use of cleaning agents and heating technology
All cleaning and disinfecting agents are stored safely in the container and can be either diluted or applied to the hazmat crew in concentrated form as required. All spray nozzles are suitable for the use of cold, warm and hot water. The central diesel system supplies the entire system - from the fresh water pump to the auxiliary heater and hot water device - with energy, so that the user only has to fill up one tank.

Efficient cleaning and safe handover
Access to the container is via a non-slip ramp that leads the squad safely to the rear area. There, the wearer is first cleaned by an integrated boot washing system and then roughly cleaned by six nozzles. Measuring devices or special devices that the squad still carries with them can be placed in a special cup so that the next leading squad can take them back into the operational area without contact with the contaminated squad. A handwashing sink is available to pre-clean the most exposed areas of the hazmat suit carrier. A cleaning agent can be applied to fine areas and rinsed off with fresh water after a short exposure time. The entire process only takes around 1.5 to 2 minutes and ensures optimized and calculable use of resources in the spirit of sustainability, with around 40 liters of water consumption per carrier.

“The special solutions developed reduce the decontamination time to a minimum and increase the safety and quality of the cleaning process. The effort required by the operating staff is also reduced.”

Dennis Scholzen, Head of Operations Preparation Department, Chemiepark Knapsack Fire Department

Comfort and protection for the emergency services
After the actual cleaning, a powerful blower ensures that the last water droplets are removed quickly and thoroughly, especially in the sensitive zipper area of ​​the hazmat suit. The integrated fans and heaters ensure that the interior of the container is pleasantly warm, so that the undressed hazmat suit carrier in the green area can calmly get replacement clothing from a dispenser. An overpressure in the green area safely discharges the water vapor into the red area after the high-speed gate has been opened.

Versatile equipment for different uses
Washing brushes and spray guns are available for stubborn dirt. If the wearer cannot clean themselves mechanically, the operating staff can support the wearer with a special laboratory glove handle. The container is equipped with clear viewing windows that make the interior appear bright and spacious while at the same time allowing the wearer to be observed at all times. In addition, built-in measuring devices provide an early warning of the formation of toxic or flammable gases during the cleaning process.

User-friendly control and communication
The interior of the container is equipped with a variety of special equipment for A, B and C applications, which are clearly stored in bins and drawers. The new 12" EMPL smart display ensures easy operation and shows all important control functions. Two BOS remote radios and an intercom system are available for communication with the squad on site. Mushroom buttons are integrated as foot switches so that the operator can control the most important functions even during hands-free tasks.

Optimal illumination, monitoring and automation for maximum efficiency
The decontamination container sets new standards in the mobile decontamination of emergency services and offers impressive equipment for quick and safe operational readiness. In addition to a variety of lighting devices, a powerful light mast is also integrated in the outside area of ​​the Ro/Ro container, which optimally illuminates the entire area around the container and ensures maximum visibility.

Modern monitoring technology and rapid operational readiness
For an even better overview, a photokite drone system is loaded on the container, which allows the operator to monitor the surroundings. A camera in the rear area ensures that the operator always has an eye on whether there are porters waiting in front of the entrance and enables a quick response to upcoming decontamination processes.

Thanks to a high level of automation in the control processes, the container is ready for use in just around 5 minutes, which minimizes waiting times for the emergency services.

Autonomous operation for maximum flexibility
The container is operated with just two people and can independently decontaminate up to 10 people. As soon as a water connection is established and an additional waste water tank is provided, the container is able to work continuously depending on the waste water volume and thus offers almost unlimited usability.

Advantageous operation and optimal division of work
The main operator controls all washing processes, fans and other functions of the container. The second operator remains appropriately protected in a specially secured area to undress the hazmat suit carrier. In this way, the entire decontamination process is carried out successfully and safely, meaning that the emergency services are quickly ready for action again.

The Ro/Ro decontamination container combines advanced technology, high flexibility and well-thought-out work organization to make the decontamination of emergency services efficient and safe.

EMPL: The right solution for every mission!