Virginia bans OSB wood containing PMDI for live fire training

By Robert Dalheim July 23, 2020 | 1:56 pm EDT

VIRGINIA – The Virginia Department of Fire Programs has announced a ban on the use of oriented strand board (OSB) containing poly-methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (PMDI) during live fire training.    The ban was put into effect because OSB containing PMDI can release toxic, carcinogenic byproducts when burned, according to the VDFP.   “We are adopting aggressive cancer prevention efforts during such critical training,” VDFP Executive Director Michael Reilly said in a statement. “After each live fire training, a complete wash down of PPE, SCBA, and other tools used in the fire occurs. Also, personal cleanup is done and then a medical evaluation is completed. We understand that this prohibition of engineered wood containing PMDI, as well as the extensive rehab procedures may be met with some opposition. However, based on industry research and our mandate to reduce carcinogen exposures and cancer related deaths among Virginia’s Fire Service, it is the right thing to do.”   The change was backed by state governor Ralph Northam, the Virginia Fire Services Board (VFSB), the Virginia Professional Fire Fighters and the Virginia Firefighters Association, says the VDFP.   “The Fire Service explores several methods to reduce risks and harm to our men and women in the field,” VFSB Chair Walt Bailey said in a statement, “It is much more meaningful to create policies and involve local and state officials. Then, the widespread action follows.”   OSB is commonly used in the construction of residential and multifamily housing, as well as in a variety of other applications.

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