When using air bags in a rescue situation, which statement is true?

When using air bags in a rescue situation, which statement is true?

• A. Lift an inch, crib a foot.
• B. Bags should never be stacked more than three high.
• C. Bags should not contact materials hotter than 220° F (1040 C).
• D. Bags should be inflated quickly to keep the load from shifting.

Answer: (C)

Air bags used in rescue work are heat sensitive, so keeping them away from hot materials protects their integrity. If a bag comes into contact with surfaces hotter than about 220°F (roughly 104°C), the fabric and internal components can weaken, melt, or fail when you need them to lift. That’s why the correct guideline is to avoid contact with anything hotter than that threshold and, if possible, shield the bags with heat blankets or barriers or cool the load before placing the bag. The other statements relate to different aspects of rigging and load handling and don’t address protecting the airbags from heat exposure.

Air bags used in rescue work are heat sensitive, so keeping them away from hot materials protects their integrity. If a bag comes into contact with surfaces hotter than about 220°F (roughly 104°C), the fabric and internal components can weaken, melt, or fail when you need them to lift. That’s why the correct guideline is to avoid contact with anything hotter than that threshold and, if possible, shield the bags with heat blankets or barriers or cool the load before placing the bag. The other statements relate to different aspects of rigging and load handling and don’t address protecting the airbags from heat exposure.