The InterAgency Board for Equipment Standardization and Interoperability

06/19/2026

Check out the latest edition of the Hazardous Materials Hot Line!

The recent fire and explosion in a silo Maine, resulting in the deaths of 2 responders brings the threat of silos and dust to the forefront. The IAFF has released a safety advisory reminding responders of the hazards. OSHA has information on the hazards associated with these facilities, including in...

06/18/2026

⏳ Historical Highlight: Charleston Super Sofa Fire ⏳

On June 18, 2007, a devastating fire broke out at the Sofa Super Store, a furniture showroom and warehouse in Charleston, South Carolina. The blaze rapidly consumed the building and claimed the lives of nine Charleston firefighters. This tragedy marked the single greatest loss of firefighter life in the United States since the September 11 attacks.

A massive inventory of highly combustible furniture, combined with a lack of sprinkler systems and adequate fire barriers, caused the flames to spread at an uncontrollable rate. The nine first responders became trapped inside when the structure's roof and walls caved in. Subsequent investigations uncovered critical failures regarding building codes, fire safety regulations, and emergency response procedures.

The incident stands as a solemn testament to the immense risks firefighters face daily and underscores the absolute necessity of enforcing strict fire safety standards.

Video Credit: ABC News 4

06/15/2026

Episode 8: Hazmat Modeling is out now! Check it out on all major
podcast platforms!

https://interagencyboard.org/podcast/

If you have comments, need more information, or have a topic you’d like us to examine in a future episode, email [email protected]

06/06/2026

Check out the latest edition of the Hazardous Materials Hot Line!

https://interagencyboard.org/june-5-2026/

06/06/2026

Today, we pause to honor the incredible bravery, coordination, and sacrifice of the Allied forces who stormed the beaches of Normandy 82 years ago today.

Operation Overlord was the largest amphibious invasion in history, requiring unprecedented interagency and international collaboration, a shared mission, meticulous planning, and definitive action under extreme pressure.

As we reflect on the courage of the soldiers, sailors, and airmen who faced insurmountable odds to secure liberty, we are reminded of the enduring power of unified effort in the face of adversity.

Their legacy lives on in our continued commitment to readiness, partnership, and safeguarding our communities and nation.

We will never forget.

05/30/2026

Episode 7: NFPA Standards Development is out now! Check it out on all major podcast platforms!

https://interagencyboard.org/podcast/

If you have comments, need more information, or have a topic you’d like us to examine in a future episode, email [email protected]

05/25/2026

⏳𝐇𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭: 𝐀𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐢𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬 𝐅𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝟏𝟗𝟏⏳

On May 25, 1979, American Airlines Flight 191 crashed at O'Hare Airport, killing 273 people. An engine separated during takeoff due to structural fatigue caused by improper maintenance. As the deadliest aviation accident on U.S. soil, it led to massive changes in engine mounting designs. For responders, the intense jet fuel fire presented an overwhelming mass casualty and hazardous materials challenge.

Response to such aviation disasters relies on specialized gear categorized in the SEL. Section [20]: Intervention Equipment includes requirements for high-capacity Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) and specialized nozzles for hydrocarbon fires. Additionally, Section [01]: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) ensures responders can operate in "warm zones" where they may be exposed to toxic combustion products and hazardous fuels during rescue operations.

Want more info about the IAB? Check us out at: https://interagencyboard.org/

Want to check out the IAB’s interactive Standardized Equipment List (SEL)? Check it out at: https://sel.iabfoundation.org/SELint.aspx

What to check out the latest InterAgency Podcast episode? Listen and subscribe at: https://interagencyboard.org/podcast/

05/25/2026

The InterAgency Board honors the military heroes who gave everything to protect our nation. On this Memorial Day, we remember their ultimate sacrifice and stand united in gratitude for their service. Their bravery inspires our continued commitment to national security and preparedness.

05/23/2026

Check out the latest Hazardous Materials Hot Line!

Over the past several years, researchers have identified wildfire smoke as a conduit for spreading microorganisms. While the impact has not been fully identified, research indicates that smoke may be a source of disease for both responders and the general public.

05/16/2026

Episode 6: Hazardous Materials in History #1 is out now! Check it out on all major podcast platforms!

https://interagencyboard.org/podcast/

If you have comments, need more information, or have a topic you’d like us to examine in a future episode, email [email protected]