SOUTHWEST ASIA -- Members of the 380th Expeditionary Aircraft Maintenance Squadron conducted hydrazine spill response familiarization training with 380th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron Fire Department members here at an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia, Oct. 27, 2016.
The Dragon Aircraft Maintenance Unit conducted the training with the fire department Airmen in order to remain current and allow newly arrived Airmen to familiarize themselves with the aircraft.
“We have this training often since personnel change and very few aircraft use hydrazine,” said Tech. Sgt. Brian, 380th EAMXS. “This substance is very hazardous and they need to know how to handle it.”
Hydrazine, also known as H-70, is used in the U-2S Dragon Lady as part of a back-up fuel system in case the plane’s engines cut off, giving the pilot a chance to restart the engines.
“Most of our members are hazmat technicians,” said Master Sgt. Michael, 380th ECES. “This training gives us specific details on how to properly respond to an H-70 incident, so we know what we need in order to quickly respond.”
Brian emphasized that when responding to a suspected H-70 leak the Fire Department responders should not enter the area until Dragon AMU responders are present.
“Our concern with leaks and spills is for the maintainers, pilots, and response team,” said Brian. “We want to keep them safe and healthy, for the mission and their families at home.”