What does the acronym BLEVE mean?

The acronym BLEVE stands for Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion. This term describes a hazardous event that occurs when a vessel containing pressurized liquid, typically a flammable liquid, is damaged or exposed to heat. When the liquid inside the vessel overheats, the pressure can cause it to violently boil, resulting in the rapid expansion of vapor. If this process occurs with enough force, it can lead to an explosion, which poses serious risks to safety and can result in extensive damage and injury.

Understanding BLEVE is crucial for hazmat firefighters, as it highlights the dangers associated with pressurized liquids and the potential for catastrophic events in emergency situations. Knowledge of this concept helps ensure that responders can effectively assess risks and implement appropriate safety measures during hazmat incidents involving such materials.