As firefighters bravely face dangerous and hazardous environments, their protective gear becomes their lifeline. The integrity and effectiveness of their turnout gear are crucial in ensuring their safety and minimizing occupational health risks. Regular cleaning and maintenance of firefighter turnout gear are essential not only for prolonging its lifespan but also for reducing the exposure to harmful contaminants. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best practices and protocols for cleaning and caring for firefighter turnout gear.
- Understanding the Risks Faced by Firefighters
Firefighters are exposed to a range of hazardous substances and carcinogens during their operations. When they enter burning structures, they encounter toxic fumes and chemicals that can enter their bodies through various routes, including inhalation and skin absorption[^6^]. These hazardous substances, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), are released from burning materials and are known to be cancer-causing agents[^6^]. The increased risk of cancer among firefighters has been well-documented, highlighting the importance of minimizing exposure to these harmful compounds[^6^][^7^].
- The Role of Turnout Gear in Protecting Firefighters
Turnout gear, also known as personal protective equipment (PPE), is designed to shield firefighters from heat, flames, and other hazardous elements encountered during firefighting operations. It consists of various components, including bunker gear, helmets, gloves, and boots, all of which work together to provide maximum protection and minimize the risk of injuries and exposure to harmful substances[^5^].
- The Need for Proper Cleaning and Maintenance
Due to the nature of their work, firefighter turnout gear can become contaminated with a wide range of substances, including soot, chemicals, and bodily fluids. This contamination poses a significant health risk to firefighters, as these substances can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled, leading to long-term health issues and an increased risk of cancer[^6^][^8^].
Proper cleaning and maintenance of turnout gear are essential to remove contaminants, maintain the gear’s protective properties, and ensure the safety of firefighters. Neglecting regular cleaning and maintenance can compromise the effectiveness of the gear and increase the risk of exposure to harmful substances[^9^].
- Recommended Cleaning Procedures and Guidelines
To ensure the proper cleaning and maintenance of firefighter turnout gear, it is essential to follow established procedures and guidelines. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provides standards and recommendations for the selection, care, and maintenance of protective ensembles for structural firefighting[^9^].
Routine Cleaning
Routine cleaning is the regular maintenance performed by firefighters themselves. It involves surface cleansing, rinsing, and air drying the gear away from direct sunlight. During routine cleaning, it is important to wear protective gloves and eye/face splash protection to avoid direct contact with contaminants[^9^].
To effectively remove dirt and grime, gently scrub the gear with a soft-bristle brush in a utility sink. Take care when cleaning the moisture barrier side of the liner or the reflective trim to prevent damage[^9^].
Advanced Cleaning
Advanced cleaning, also known as professional cleaning, should be performed by trained personnel from verified Independent Service Providers (ISPs) specializing in PPE care and maintenance. This type of cleaning involves using specialized cleaning agents and equipment to thoroughly clean the turnout gear and remove contaminants[^9^].
It is recommended to have advanced cleaning performed bi-annually by a verified ISP. This ensures that the gear receives a comprehensive cleaning that goes beyond routine maintenance and helps maintain its protective properties[^9^].
Decontamination
In situations where the turnout gear becomes contaminated with hazardous substances such as blood, bodily fluids, chemicals, or oils, decontamination is necessary. Decontamination should be performed by a verified ISP using appropriate procedures and cleaning agents specific to the type of contamination[^9^].
Decontamination helps remove potentially harmful substances from the gear, minimizing the risk of exposure to firefighters. It is crucial to take the contaminated gear out of service and follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommended decontamination procedures[^9^].
- Water Temperature and Detergent Selection
When washing firefighter turnout gear, it is important to consider the water temperature and detergent selection. The water temperature should not exceed 105°F to prevent damaging the protective properties of the gear. Higher temperatures can lead to fabric shrinkage and degradation of reflective trim[^4^][^9^].
Using a front-loading washing machine is recommended to ensure proper cleaning and prevent damage to the gear. It is crucial to use a commercially available cleaning product specifically designed for cleaning firefighter turnout gear. These cleaning solutions should have a pH range between 6.0 and 10.5 and should not contain chlorine bleach or other harsh chemicals[^9^].
- The Effectiveness of Different Cleaning Methods
Various cleaning methods have been evaluated for their effectiveness in removing contaminants from firefighter turnout gear. Studies have shown that wet-soap decontamination, using water and dish soap applied to the gear and scrubbed with a brush, is the most effective method, removing an average of 85% of PAH contamination present on the gear[^8^].
Dry brushing with a stiff-bristled brush and air-based decon with a modified electric leaf-blower have also been tested, but their effectiveness in removing contaminants is lower compared to wet-soap decontamination[^8^]. It is important to note that further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of wet-soap decon against other contaminants and its impact on the gear’s durability[^8^].
- The Role of Glove Contamination and Skin Exposure
In addition to turnout gear, gloves worn by firefighters can also become contaminated during firefighting operations. Studies have shown that certain flame retardants and other substances can be found on gloves, indicating potential exposure to harmful chemicals[^8^].
Skin exposure to contaminants, especially PAHs, can occur during firefighting operations. Firefighters involved in fire attack and search duties have been found to have higher levels of PAH contamination on their gear and hands compared to other positions[^8^]. This highlights the importance of proper cleaning and decontamination procedures to minimize the risk of skin exposure and potential health effects.
- Laundering Considerations for Hoods
Nomex sock hoods worn by firefighters are also susceptible to contamination. Laundering these hoods after every fire is recommended to remove contaminants. However, studies have shown that while most PAH contamination can be removed through laundering, some flame retardants, such as brominated flame retardants, may remain embedded in the fabric[^8^].
Further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of laundering methods in removing these persistent contaminants and whether they contribute to prolonged exposure for firefighters[^8^]. It is also important to investigate potential cross-contamination during laundering and explore the use of particle-blocking hoods to minimize exposure to contaminants[^8^].
- Off-Gassing of Turnout Gear
After firefighting operations, turnout gear can absorb volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the environment. This process, known as off-gassing, occurs when the gear is removed from the immediate hazardous environment[^8^]. Further research is needed to understand the extent of off-gassing and its potential health implications for firefighters.
- Partnering with Verified Independent Service Providers
To ensure the proper cleaning and maintenance of firefighter turnout gear, it is recommended to partner with verified Independent Service Providers (ISPs) specializing in PPE care and maintenance. These ISPs have the expertise, equipment, and cleaning agents necessary to effectively clean and decontaminate turnout gear while preserving its protective properties[^9^].
By working with verified ISPs, fire departments can ensure that their firefighters’ turnout gear receives the highest standard of care and maintenance. Regular inspections, cleaning, and repairs performed by verified ISPs help extend the lifespan of the gear and reduce the risk of exposure to hazardous substances[^9^].
In conclusion, the proper cleaning and maintenance of firefighter turnout gear are of utmost importance to ensure the safety and well-being of firefighters. Following established guidelines and partnering with verified ISPs for advanced cleaning and decontamination are essential steps in minimizing exposure to harmful contaminants and prolonging the lifespan of the gear. By prioritizing the care of turnout gear, fire departments can enhance the safety and effectiveness of their firefighters in the line of duty.
