As conditions vary from station to station, system running time should be determined locally. Some stations have automatic controls that turn on exhaust ventilation. They may be activated by bay door openings, by exhaust sensors, or by other means. A timer turns off the ventilation after a period of time thought sufficient to clear the air. Where such controls also control bay door operation, fail-safe mechanisms are needed to prevent accidents caused by moving bay doors.
Isolation is one method of controlling migration of exhaust fumes.
Isolation measures, in effect, seal off the apparatus room from other areas. A potential problem is the trapping of fumes in the apparatus room. The significance of this depends upon the volume of the apparatus area, the rate and duration of engine emissions, the amount of time firefighters have to spend in the area, and the effectiveness of any mechanical or natural ventilation. Install self-closing mechanisms on these doors. Weather-strip these doors to ensure good seals.