How many minutes of intense work without SCBA are used as a trigger for rehab per NFPA guidelines?

• A. 20
• B. 30
• C. 40
• D. 60

Answer: (C)

The main idea here is that rehab is initiated after a defined amount of strenuous work without breathing protection to prevent heat strain and dehydration. NFPA guidelines set forty minutes of intense work without an SCBA as the point at which rehab should begin. At this threshold, cumulative heat load, fluid loss, and cardiovascular strain from PPE and sustained effort increase the risk of heat illness, so moving the member to rehab allows cooling, rehydration, vitals monitoring, and medical evaluation before continuing operations. Rehab typically involves removing from the hot environment, hydrating, cooling the body, and assessing for symptoms or abnormal vitals; if symptoms or concerning vitals appear, further medical care is pursued.