#375 Hazmat, Detection & The Hidden Threats we face with Dr Mark Norman

Today were talking hazardous materials, detection technology, and how it’s reshaping our work in the fire and rescue services.

Joining me is Dr. Mark L. Norman, a Senior Field Applications Scientist at 908 Devices and a leading subject matter expert in optical detection technologies. With over 20 years of experience in hazmat detection systems for emergency response, Mark brings both scientific expertise and real-world insight. He holds a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from UNC-Chapel Hill, has authored peer-reviewed publications — including a 2003 collaboration with NASA climatologists — and is an inventor on two patents related to hazardous gas and vapor identification.

In our conversation, we talk about the evolution of detection technology — from lab-based instruments to field-deployable units — and the shift that happened post-9/11 when incidents like the anthrax letters drove new levels of investment and innovation. We also unpack common hazmat misconceptions, the difference between gases and vapors, acute vs chronic exposures, and why understanding things like molecular weight and vapor density can literally save lives at the fireground.

My hope is this gives you a clearer understanding of how to approach hazmat incidents more confidently, why good detection equipment matters, and how new threats like EV battery fires and fentanyl contamination are pushing the sector to adapt fast.

So If you're a firefighter, incident commander, hazmat operator, or someone who just wants to deepen their operational awareness, this episode is packed with practical, relevant insight that will help you do the job better and safer.

Connect with Dr. Mark Norman HERE

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