Re: PVC and fires

[DrBillC@aol.com]

Charlie:

Thanks for the update on Dusseldorf.  Just a couple of points.

First of all, you assert that the finding that CO is the main toxicant in
fires is "absurd" given the anecdotal evidence.  The evidence in the
literature is clear: CO, low oxygen and general physical condition are the
main indicators of death for those who do not die from burns.  I'll take the
science over the anecdote.

Second, much is made in your posting aboutbrominated dioxins, presumeably
from  brominated flame retardants.  To the best of my knowledge, these things
are not used in your hypothesized main fuel, PVC wire insulation.

Third, my understanding of the situation is that American fire experts (from
the National Fire Protection Asssociation) were prevented from conducting an
examination because criminal charges had been filed, I believe regarding the
welder.  Even the German government is asking people to withhold judgement
until the investigation is complete, but we do know that there were numerous
violations of good practice if not codes.  I believe when the story of this
fire is told it will be the same old story: poor fire planning and
notification and limited means of egress.  Elevators full of people opening
into the fire and people trapped in lounges with no loudspeakers are
important to the scenario.

Let's wait and see.

Bill Carroll
Chlorine Chemistry Council