Data Collection Summary for PPE Care and Maintenance
Transcript of Data Collection Summary for PPE Care and Maintenance
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Data Collection Summary for
PPE Care and Maintenance
A Summary of Data on
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Care and Maintenance Practices
Collected from
the Fire Service, Independent Service Providers, and PPE Manufacturers
Prepared by:
Paul Kashmanian and Casey C. Grant, P.E.
Fire Protection Research Foundation
© February 2014
The Fire Protection Research Foundation One Batterymarch Park Quincy, Massachusetts, U.S.A. 02169-7471 E-Mail: [email protected] Web: www.nfpa.org/foundation
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FOREWORD
Fire fighting personal protective equipment (PPE) is an essential part of the gear used by
fire fighters. Like all equipment, fire fighting PPE requires appropriate care and
maintenance. The goal of this project is to provide a data collection summary of current
practice and policies for fire service PPE care and maintenance, with resulting
deliverables that help guide standards revisions as well as to support future research on
this topic.
The Fire Protection Research Foundation expresses gratitude to members of the
project’s technical panel for their guidance throughout the project and to all others who
contributed to this research effort. Special thanks are expressed to the National Fire
Protection Association (NFPA) for providing the project funding through the NFPA
Annual Code Fund.
The content, opinions, and conclusions contained in this report are solely those of the
authors.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The Fire Protection Research Foundation expresses gratitude to those that assisted with
the development and review of the information contained in this report. The Research
Foundation appreciates the guidance provide by the Project Technical Panel, and from
the NFPA who provided funding.
About the Fire Protection Research Foundation
The Fire Protection Research Foundation plans, manages, and communicates research
on a broad range of fire safety issues in collaboration with scientists and laboratories
around the world. The Foundation is an affiliate of NFPA.
About the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
NFPA is a worldwide leader in fire, electrical, building, and life safety. The mission of the
international nonprofit organization founded in 1896 is to reduce the worldwide burden
of fire and other hazards on the quality of life by providing and advocating consensus
codes and standards, research, training, and education. NFPA develops more than 300
codes and standards to minimize the possibility and effects of fire and other hazards. All
NFPA codes and standards can be viewed at no cost at www.nfpa.org/freeaccess.
Keywords: fire, fire service, fire fighting, personal protective equipment, PPE, gear,
care, maintenance, inspection, cleaning, retirement
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PROJECT TECHNICAL PANEL
Ken Block, Edmonton Fire Rescue Services & Metro Chiefs (AB)
Rita Fahy, NFPA Fire Analysis & Research Division (MA)
Bill Haskell, NIOSH NPPTL (MA)
Steve King, NFPA TC on FAE-SPF Chair & FDNY Retired (NY)
Steve Lakey, VISPA & Northwest Safety Clean Inc. (OR)
Beth Lancaster, CTTSO/TSWG (VA)
Karen Lehtonen, Lion Apparel Inc (OH)
Kirk Owen, NFPA Fire Service Section & TenCate (TX)
Jim Reidy, Texas State Association of Fire Fighters (TX)
Jeff Stull, International Personnel Protection Inc. (TX)
Tim Tomlinson, Addison FD & Gear Cleaning Solutions (TX)
Dave Trebisacci, NFPA TC on FAE-SPF Staff Liaison (MA)
PROJECT SPONSOR
National Fire Protection Association
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Executive Summary ........................................................................................................... 13
Chapter 1: Introduction .................................................................................................... 15
Chapter 2: Background/Literature Review ....................................................................... 19
2.1 General Issues Involving PPE Use, Care and Maintenance ..................................... 19
2.2 PPE Related Standards ............................................................................................ 21
2.3 Fire Service PPE Inventory ...................................................................................... 23
2.4 Health and Safety Research Related to PPE ........................................................... 26
2.5 Research on PPE Use, Care and Maintenance ........................................................ 27
Chapter 3: Methodology ................................................................................................... 31
Chapter 4: Results ............................................................................................................. 33
4.1 Fire Service .............................................................................................................. 35
4.1.1 Line Fire Service Member Survey Results ........................................................ 37
4.1.2 Staff Fire Service Member Survey Results ....................................................... 65
4.1.3 Both Fire Service Members Survey Results ..................................................... 89
4.2 Independent Service Providers (ISPs) ................................................................... 119
4.3 Manufacturers ...................................................................................................... 143
Chapter 5: Summary Observations ................................................................................. 161
References ...................................................................................................................... 163
Annex A: Fire Service Survey Announcement ................................................................. 167
Annex B: Fire Service Survey Questions ......................................................................... 169
Annex C: Independent Service Provider (ISP) Survey Questions .................................... 187
Annex D: Manufacturer Survey Questions ..................................................................... 193
Annex E: Independent Service Provider (ISP) Contacts .................................................. 197
Annex F: Manufacturer Contacts .................................................................................... 199
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SUMMARY OF FIGURES
Figure 1: The Arrangement of the PPE Maintenance World ............................................ 16
Figure 2: Phase I of the PPE Life Cycle (Illustration 1 of 3) ............................................... 16
Figure 3: Phase II of the PPE Life Cycle (Illustration 2 of 3) .............................................. 17
Figure 4: Phase III of the PPE Life Cycle (Illustration 3 of 3) ............................................. 18
Figure 5: Key Definition from the 2014 edition of NFPA 1851 ......................................... 22
Figure 6: Responsibilities for Garment Element Inspection, Cleaning and Repair ........... 23
Figure 7: Estimation of the Lack of PPE and PPE at Least 10 Years Old............................ 24
Figure 8: Estimation of Departments with Fire Fighters Lacking PPE ............................... 25
Figure 9: Percent of Departments Where Some PPE is At Least 10 Years Old ................. 26
Figure 10: Diagram of Fire Service Survey Layout ............................................................ 33
Figure 11: Divisions and Subdivisions within the Fire Service Survey .............................. 34
Figure 12: Survey Results, Fire Service Members Question 1 .......................................... 35
Figure 13: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 2 .................................. 37
Figure 14: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 3 .................................. 38
Figure 15: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 4 .................................. 39
Figure 16: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 5 .................................. 40
Figure 17: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 6 .................................. 41
Figure 18: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 7 .................................. 42
Figure 19: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 8 .................................. 43
Figure 20: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 9 .................................. 44
Figure 21: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 10 ................................ 45
Figure 22: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 11 ................................ 46
Figure 23: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 12 ................................ 47
Figure 24: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 13 ................................ 48
Figure 25: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 14 ................................ 49
Figure 26: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 15 ................................ 50
Figure 27: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 16 ................................ 51
Figure 28: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 17 ................................ 52
Figure 29: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 18 ................................ 53
Figure 30: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 19 ................................ 54
Figure 31: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 20 ................................ 55
Figure 32: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 21 ................................ 56
Figure 33: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 22 ................................ 57
Figure 34: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 23 ................................ 58
Figure 35: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 24 ................................ 59
Figure 36: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 25 ................................ 60
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Figure 37: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 26 ................................ 61
Figure 38: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 27 ................................ 62
Figure 39: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 31 ............................... 65
Figure 40: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 32 ............................... 66
Figure 41: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 33 ............................... 67
Figure 42: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 34 ............................... 68
Figure 43: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 35 ............................... 69
Figure 44: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 36 ............................... 70
Figure 45: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 37 ............................... 71
Figure 46: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 38 ............................... 72
Figure 47: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 39 ............................... 73
Figure 48: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 40 ............................... 74
Figure 49: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 41 ............................... 75
Figure 50: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 42 ............................... 76
Figure 51: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 43 ............................... 77
Figure 52: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 44 ............................... 78
Figure 53: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 45 ............................... 79
Figure 54: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 46 ............................... 80
Figure 55: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 47 ............................... 81
Figure 56: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 48 ............................... 82
Figure 57: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 49 ............................... 83
Figure 58: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 50 ............................... 84
Figure 59: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 51 ............................... 85
Figure 60: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 52 ............................... 86
Figure 61: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 53 ............................... 87
Figure 62: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 54 ............................... 88
Figure 63: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 58............................... 89
Figure 64: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 59............................... 90
Figure 65: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 60............................... 91
Figure 66: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 61............................... 92
Figure 67: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 62............................... 93
Figure 68: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 63............................... 94
Figure 69: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 64............................... 95
Figure 70: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 65............................... 96
Figure 71: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 66............................... 97
Figure 72: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 67............................... 98
Figure 73: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 68............................... 99
Figure 74: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 69............................. 100
Figure 75: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 70............................. 101
Figure 76: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 71............................. 102
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Figure 77: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 72............................. 103
Figure 78: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 73............................. 104
Figure 79: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 74............................. 105
Figure 80: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 75............................. 106
Figure 81: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 76............................. 107
Figure 82: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 77............................. 108
Figure 83: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 78............................. 109
Figure 84: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 79............................. 110
Figure 85: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 80............................. 111
Figure 86: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 81............................. 112
Figure 87: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 82............................. 113
Figure 88: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 83............................. 114
Figure 89: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 84............................. 115
Figure 90: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 85............................. 116
Figure 91: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 86............................. 117
Figure 92: Survey Results, ISP Question 1 ...................................................................... 120
Figure 93: Survey Results, ISP Question 2 ...................................................................... 121
Figure 94: Survey Results, ISP Question 3 ...................................................................... 122
Figure 95: Survey Results, ISP Question 4 ...................................................................... 123
Figure 96: Survey Results, ISP Question 5 ...................................................................... 124
Figure 97: Survey Results, ISP Question 6 ...................................................................... 125
Figure 98: Survey Results, ISP Question 7 ...................................................................... 126
Figure 99: Survey Results, ISP Question 8 ...................................................................... 127
Figure 100: Survey Results, ISP Question 9 .................................................................... 128
Figure 101: Survey Results, ISP Question 10 .................................................................. 129
Figure 102: Survey Results, ISP Question 11 .................................................................. 130
Figure 103: Survey Results, ISP Question 12 .................................................................. 131
Figure 104: Survey Results, ISP Question 13 .................................................................. 132
Figure 105: Survey Results, ISP Question 14 .................................................................. 133
Figure 106: Survey Results, ISP Question 15 .................................................................. 134
Figure 107: Survey Results, ISP Question 16 .................................................................. 135
Figure 108: Survey Results, ISP Question 17 .................................................................. 136
Figure 109: Survey Results, ISP Question 18 .................................................................. 137
Figure 110: Survey Results, ISP Question 19 .................................................................. 138
Figure 111: Survey Results, ISP Question 20 .................................................................. 139
Figure 112: Survey Results, ISP Question 21 .................................................................. 140
Figure 113: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 1 ................................................... 144
Figure 114: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 2 ................................................... 145
Figure 115: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 3 ................................................... 146
Figure 116: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 4 ................................................... 147
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Figure 117: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 5 ................................................... 148
Figure 118: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 6 ................................................... 149
Figure 119: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 7 ................................................... 150
Figure 120: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 8 ................................................... 151
Figure 121: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 9 ................................................... 152
Figure 122: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 10 ................................................. 153
Figure 123: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 11 ................................................. 154
Figure 124: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 12 ................................................. 155
Figure 125: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 13 ................................................. 156
Figure 126: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 14 ................................................. 157
Figure 127: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 15 ................................................. 158
Figure 128: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 16 ................................................. 159
Figure 129: Announcement for Fire Service PPE Survey ................................................ 167
Figure 130: Fire Service Survey, Page 1 .......................................................................... 169
Figure 131: Fire Service Survey, Page 2 .......................................................................... 170
Figure 132: Fire Service Survey, Page 3 .......................................................................... 171
Figure 133: Fire Service Survey, Page 4 .......................................................................... 172
Figure 134: Fire Service Survey, Page 5 .......................................................................... 173
Figure 135: Fire Service Survey, Page 6 .......................................................................... 174
Figure 136: Fire Service Survey, Page 7 .......................................................................... 175
Figure 137: Fire Service Survey, Page 8 .......................................................................... 176
Figure 138: Fire Service Survey, Page 9 .......................................................................... 177
Figure 139: Fire Service Survey, Page 10 ........................................................................ 178
Figure 140: Fire Service Survey, Page 11 ........................................................................ 179
Figure 141: Fire Service Survey, Page 12 ........................................................................ 180
Figure 142: Fire Service Survey, Page 13 ........................................................................ 181
Figure 143: Fire Service Survey, Page 14 ........................................................................ 182
Figure 144: Fire Service Survey, Page 15 ........................................................................ 183
Figure 145: Fire Service Survey, Page 16 ........................................................................ 184
Figure 146: Fire Service Survey, Page 17 ........................................................................ 185
Figure 147: ISP Survey, Page 1 ........................................................................................ 187
Figure 148: ISP Survey, Page 2 ........................................................................................ 188
Figure 149: ISP Survey, Page 3 ........................................................................................ 189
Figure 150: ISP Survey, Page 4 ........................................................................................ 190
Figure 151: ISP Survey, Page 5 ........................................................................................ 191
Figure 152: Manufacturer Survey, Page 1 ...................................................................... 193
Figure 153: Manufacturer Survey, Page 2 ...................................................................... 194
Figure 154: Manufacturer Survey, Page 3 ...................................................................... 195
Figure 155: Manufacturer Survey, Page 4 ...................................................................... 196
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Fire fighting is inherently dangerous, and personal protective equipment (PPE) is a
critical part of the gear used by fire fighters. All gear requires appropriate care and
maintenance, and fire service PPE is no exception. Improper care can shorten the life of
PPE and affect its performance, while cleaning gear too infrequently could influence
contamination risks such as cancer.
The goal of this project is to provide a data collection summary of current practice and
policies for fire service PPE care and maintenance. This project is intended to provide
useful background information to help guide standards revisions and support future
research addressing cleaning, decontamination, retirement, and related care and
maintenance issues.
Currently, NFPA 1851, Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of Protective
Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting provides requirements
for the selection, care, and maintenance of structural and proximity PPE; however, it
lacks specificity in certain key technical areas. Revisions to these requirements occur
periodically, and the data collected by this effort is intended to assist with the on-going
assessment and revision of these requirements. Further, as future research is
conducted on PPE related issues such as cleaning, decontamination and retirement, it is
intended that the data collected by this research study will provide helpful baseline
information to better guide future research.
The primary approach to achieve the project goal is through an extensive information
collection effort using online survey tools, supported by a brief review of the applicable
literature and typical practices within this community. The questions in these surveys
are varied, based on certain distinguishing characteristics of each of the three key
stakeholder groups and in some cases soliciting personal opinions on the topics. The
online surveys have been focused toward capturing pertinent information and address
the following primary constituent groups and sub-groups:
1) Fire Service
a) Line (Fire Fighters)
b) Staff (Administration)
c) Those Involved as Both (e.g., Line Fire Fighters with Policy Responsibility)
2) Independent Service Providers (ISPs)
3) Manufacturers
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The key summary observations from this data collection effort are that the role of
standards has value in providing a baseline, more education and out-reach is needed
with the user community of best practices, and further research on this topic is needed.
This report will be provided to the applicable NFPA Technical Committees for their
consideration, along with other public input, as they continue their work the next
edition of NFPA 1851.
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CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
The care and maintenance of fire fighter PPE is a long-standing issue. This topic has
been the subject of discussions at various technical and professional forums (e.g., 2012
Urban Fire Forum).1 Subsequently, this topic was submitted as a research project under
the NFPA Code Fund program, and as a result received funding and was initiated in the
spring of 2013.2 This report will be provided to the appropriate NFPA Technical
Committees for their consideration, along with other public input, as they continue their
work the next edition of NFPA 1851, Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of
Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting.
A key question that lacks a clear answer and that helped initiate this effort is: “How are
fire fighters and fire departments maintaining their PPE?” Using this as a starting point,
other questions that were considered and help define the PPE landscape include the
following:
How often are fire fighters and fire departments cleaning their gear?
What is the average shelf-time (time spent sitting in storage) of the gear?
Are fire fighters and fire departments using gear that was manufactured
more than 10 years ago?
What happens to the gear once it is “retired”?
To address these questions, this study provides a brief literature review on areas that
relate to the issue of PPE care and maintenance. These areas include the evaluation of
PPE, the needs of the fire service, and the impact on health.
In addition to the literature review, this study surveyed three constituencies – the fire
service, ISPs and manufacturers. The methodology section of this report describes how
a data collection survey tool was developed, distributed, and collected for each
constituency. The results provide the data collected from each of the three primary
surveys, followed by brief summary observations.
In terms of providing and handling fire service PPE, the groups of interest are the PPE
manufacturers, independent service providers (ISPs), and distributors. In general,
manufacturers generate the PPE, distributors act as agents on behalf of manufacturers
to distribute the products, and the ISPs are generally stand-alone organizations focused
on care and maintenance.
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Figure 1 shows the operational relationship that exists between the groups that provide
and handle fire service PPE. Some organizations are solely one of these three types, but
others function as a combination. For example, there are some companies that provide
care and maintenance services as an ISP and also operate as a PPE distributor.
Figure 1: The Arrangement of the PPE Maintenance World
It is helpful to consider the typical life cycle of fire service PPE. This is illustrated by a
series of three related illustrations shown in Figures 2 through 4, each of which show a
particular phase of the PPE lifecycle.
Figure 2: Phase I of the PPE Life Cycle (Illustration 1 of 3)
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Starting this lifecycle, the PPE is produced by the manufacturer, as illustrated in Figure 2.
The next step is that the PPE is sent and/or sold to the fire service; however, a
distributor could be involved in this process. Manufacturers either sell their PPE directly
to the fire service or use a distributor to sell their PPE.
Figure 3: Phase II of the PPE Life Cycle (Illustration 2 of 3)
As shown in Figure 3, once the PPE is purchased and in the possession of the fire service,
it experiences constant environmental exposures (e.g., chemicals, fires, sunlight, etc.)
that detract from the PPE’s design characteristics. Within the fire service, the PPE will go
through a series of continuous cycles that include cleaning, inspecting, and repairing.
Here we see that the cleaning and repairing is handled either in-house or outsourced.
The outsourcing for both cleaning and repairing is performed by the ISPs or
manufacturers while the in-house tasks can be conducted by the end users (i.e., fire
fighters) or trained personnel within the fire department. It is noted that while
inspections, cleaning, and some repairs can be done in-house by trained personnel, if
advanced garment repairs are done in‐house the fire department is expected to also
include third party verification. Typically, advanced garment repairs are done by the
original garment manufacturer or a verified ISP.
When the PPE reaches the end of its use in the fire service, it is moved along to
retirement as illustrated in Figure 4. Once it is removed from service it can be either
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discarded/destroyed or used for non-live fire training purposes. In some cases used
gear is re-sold. This re-sold gear may possibly return to frontline use, typically via
different fire fighters and different fire departments. The re-use of old used gear is
discouraged, especially PPE that is either over 10 years old or has been deemed unsafe
and removed from service regardless of age, based on lack of assurance on the integrity
of its original performance characteristics.
Figure 4: Phase III of the PPE Life Cycle (Illustration 3 of 3)
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CHAPTER 2: BACKGROUND/LITERATURE REVIEW
This section provides a brief review of the available and applicable literature on this
topic. This is done for the purposes of providing a baseline for consideration and to
provide a useful context for the data collection effort. It’s acknowledged that this is not
an exhaustive review of the applicable literature.
2.1 General Issues Involving PPE Use, Care and Maintenance
The literature is full of reports, articles and publications that address all aspects of PPE,
including its use, care and maintenance. Some of the more noteworthy examples are
explored in this section.
The fire service relies heavily on the durability and performance of their PPE to fulfill
their duties. Without adequate fire-fighting gear, the fire service is challenged to
complete the tasks they are asked to perform. Manufacturers are relied upon to provide
acceptable performance characteristics of PPE, while the independent service providers
(ISPs) are responsible for making sure the PPE is properly maintained. Fire departments
are responsible for making sure their PPE is properly maintained, and they can do much
of this in-house, use an ISP or their PPE manufacturer.
The durability and performance characteristics of fire-fighting PPE have become topics
of interest since the NFPA 1851, Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of
Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting, was first
established in 2001. 3 One such study by researchers at the University of Kentucky
focused on the post-use evaluation of fire fighter gear.4 This is intended to compare
durability and performance of used fire fighter gear as well as whether the 10-year
retirement rule is suitable or not.
Cleaning is important for maintaining useable gear and minimizing long-term fire fighter
exposure to contaminants, but the cleaning process itself may erode the original
protection features built into the gear, and ultimately compromises the durability and
performance characteristics of the original PPE. This is taken into account with the
evaluation methods set forth by both NFPA 1971, Standard on Protective Ensembles for
Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting, and NFPA 1851, which are meant to
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be used in determining whether fire fighter gear is still within the intended tolerances of
its original protective features3, 5
During its lifespan, PPE endures many harsh conditions and environments that can
damage the PPE and, in turn, compromise the fire fighter’s health. Once the level of
safety provided by the PPE has been diminished, it is recommended that it be retired.6
Some reasons and causes for a diminishment in the fire fighter PPE safety level include
exposures to high thermal temperatures, ultra-violet light, and the nature of fire-
fighting operations.7 Even though the new, synthetic fibers developed and used by
manufacturers are helping to lessen the damages inflicted upon fire fighters, there must
also be action taken by the fire fighters to ensure that they are doing whatever they can
do to ensure the performance of their PPE by keeping it clean and well-maintained.
With proper care including inspections, cleaning and repair throughout the life of the
gear, its lifespan can be maximized, and just as importantly if not more so, assure that it
will perform as intended.
A telling indicator of interest in this general subject area is the level of activity handled
by NFPA staff on the advisory service questions they receive on their assigned codes and
standards. These inquiries handled by the NFPA staff are telltale examples of the kinds
of issues that are facing fire fighters, manufacturers, and ISPs.
For example, during the time frame of June 2012 to June 2013 there were a total of 46
inquiries transmitted to NFPA staff on NFPA 1851. Of these, 29 inquiries were directed
towards the retirement and replacement of PPE, with other inquiries addressing the
lifespan of helmets and ISP verification.8
The helmet issue was one of recent special attention involving the retirement of old and
used equipment. This relates to the argument that helmets should be exempt from a
blanket retirement age that is applied to other PPE. This is a topic that is complicated by
fire service tradition on wearing scuffed, rugged-looking helmets as a “badge of pride.”9
The world of PPE is vast and involved in many other industries besides fire fighting and
emergency response. Examples of other applications are mining, law enforcement and
the military. In the United States, the sale of PPE is a relatively large market.
In recent years the aftermarket sales arena of PPE has proliferated. Here, aftermarket
refers to used gear sold by other than the original equipment manufacturer. It is natural
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marketplace dynamics for older gear to be re-sold if it still has value, and fire fighter PPE
is no exception.
Aftermarket sales of PPE raise questions with the retirement of PPE. This is addressed
by NFPA 1851 which indicates that the retirement of fire fighter protective ensembles
and ensemble elements should not exceed 10 years past the date of manufacture and
that the fire fighter gear may only be used for “…training that does not involve live fire,
provided the ensembles and ensemble elements are appropriately marked as being for
non-live fire training only…”.10 It further indicates that the fire fighter gear should be
disposed of and not placed back into the active fire combat.
In practical applications these NFPA 1851 provisions pertaining to retirement are often
not followed. Various online auction and product sites demonstrate that it is relatively
easy to locate and purchase used fire fighter gear that is past the 10 year mark for
retirement. Recent advancement of the internet and the World Wide Web technology
has greatly facilitated the handling of this used aftermarket equipment. In recognizing
this situation, it should be clearly understood that selling, or giving, used PPE that is
either over 10 years old, or has been deemed unsafe and removed from service
regardless of age, is not recommended or allowed by NFPA 1851. 11
2.2 PPE Related Standards
Standards are a tool in today’s civilized world to reflect the will of society on complex
technical topics. By their very nature standards establish requirements and limitations,
and they do so to achieve acceptable levels of health and safety.
There are multiple standards that pertain directly to fire service PPE, and the two most
notable and directly applicable to the subject area addressed by this report are NFPA
1971, Standard on Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire
Fighting, and NFPA 1851, Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of Protective
Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting.12, 13 In general, NFPA
1971 focuses on the design, performance, testing, and certification of new structural
and proximity fire fighting protective ensembles, while NFPA 1851 focuses on care and
maintenance issues.
Specifically, NFPA 1851 has served as the foundation for fire fighters on how their
protective ensembles and ensemble elements should be cared for and maintained.
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Additionally, this standard is important to the independent service providers and PPE
manufacturers.
The scope of NFPA 1851 states that, “This standard shall specify the minimum selection,
care, and maintenance requirements for structural fire fighting protective ensembles
and the individual ensemble elements that include garments, helmets, gloves, footwear,
and interface components that are compliant with NFPA 1971.”14. Additionally, it applies
for proximity fire fighting protective ensembles and ensemble elements.
The 2014 edition of NFPA 1851 was issued in September 2013 and included updated
terminology that clarifies which parties are responsible for each aspect of care and
maintenance, such as inspection, cleaning, and repairing of fire fighter gear. Figure 5
summarizes key definitions. These definitions describe the primary stakeholder groups
that are the focus of the information collection, which are manufacturers, organizations
(that handle fire services), and independent service providers (ISPs).
Figure 5: Key Definition from the 2014 edition of NFPA 1851
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Additional helpful information is included in Figure 6, the responsibilities for garment
element inspection, cleaning and repair from the 2014 edition of NFPA 1851. This
describes the organization responsible for the cleaning, inspection, and repair services
of ensembles and ensemble elements. This addresses the element manufacturer
(MFG), verified Independent Service Provider (V ISP), verified organization (V ORG),
manufacturer-trained organization (MT ORG), and the end user (USER).
Figure 6: Responsibilities for Garment Element Inspection, Cleaning and Repair from
the 2014 edition of NFPA 1851
2.3 Fire Service PPE Inventory
Fire fighters require appropriate gear to protect themselves and others as they fight
fires and carry out their duties, often in a hazardous environment. An important
question is: what is the PPE inventory they are using? Further, how many fire fighters
do not have gear, or is the gear they are using questionable in terms of the performance
parameters for which it was originally designed?
This is partially addressed by a series of “Needs Assessments” conducted by the Fire
Analysis and Research Division at the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). The
NFPA Fire Analysis and Research Division has released the “Needs Assessment of the
U.S. Fire Service” report approximately at half decade intervals starting in 2001. After
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the initial 2001 first edition, this was followed by the second edition in 2006 and a third
in 2011. The later versions built upon preceding editions, and thus our focus here is on
the “Third Needs Assessment of the U.S. Fire Service” issued in 201115.
The more notable items within the Third Needs Assessment relating to the scope of this
effort are those that refer to how well fire fighters are equipped with PPE and the age of
the PPE currently being used. As shown in Figure 7, there is both a shortage of PPE and a
plenitude of PPE that is more than 10 years old.16 This is based on over 4,600 fire
department responses, and it illustrates the number of fire fighters in departments
where not all fire fighters are equipped with personal protective clothing. It also shows
the percent of fire departments with some personal protective clothing that is at least
10 years old by size of community. It is noted that numbers in Figure 7 are shown to the
nearest thousand and sums may not equal totals due to rounding.
Figure 7: Estimation of the Lack of PPE and PPE at Least 10 Years Old
The Third Needs Assessment further reports the percent of fire departments where not
all emergency responders have their own PPE by size of communities, and this is shown
here in Figure 8.17 This information is useful in expressing the extent of the PPE
shortage fire fighters are facing in both larger and smaller communities from survey
feedback based on the collection of this data in 2010.
For comparative purposes the information in Figure 8 includes the data collected for all
three Needs Assessments and helps to clarify the percent of fire departments where not
Page 25 of 199
all responders have their own PPE. Overall, nearly two-thirds (63%) of fire departments
reported that some of their PPE was at least 10 years old (shown in Figure 7).
Figure 8: Estimation of Departments with Fire Fighters Lacking PPE
Figure 9 further expands on Figure 7, and shows the percent of fire departments where
some PPE is at least 10 years old, by size of community.18 Again this provides a side-by-
side comparison of the data collected with all three Needs Assessments, and helps to
demonstrate the trends.
It is noteworthy that there is a correlation between community population and the
percentage of departments with gear that is 10 years or older. Figure 9 also
demonstrates that when the jurisdictional population protected by the fire department
is smaller, the percentage of departments with older fire-fighting gear is larger. The
compiled data in the Third Needs Assessment also indicates that half the fire
Page 26 of 199
departments do not have reserve PPE sufficient to equip 10% of their emergency
responders.
The information in Figure 9 shows that nearly two-thirds of the fire departments use
PPE that is at least 10 years of age. The trend since 2001 indicates there is a slight drop
in the percentage of fire departments using PPE that is at least 10 years old (74% in
2001 to 63% in 2010), it still remains an important issue for the fire service, especially
for the smaller departments that struggle for available resources.
Figure 9: Percent of Departments Where Some PPE is At Least 10 Years Old
2.4 Health and Safety Research Related to PPE
Some of the research in the literature addresses fire fighter safety and health issues.
These studies raise questions on the possible influence that dirty or contaminated gear
may have on the long-term health and well-being of fire fighters.
Page 27 of 199
For example, Occupational and Environmental Medicine recently published an
informative scientific NIOSH report concerning the health risks associated with
firefighting. The report, “Mortality and cancer incidence in a pooled cohort of U.S. fire
fighters from San Francisco, Chicago and Philadelphia (1950–2009),” used a large sample
pool of fire fighters for evaluation and found that there is a correlation between
firefighting and cancer.19
The significance of this particular report is its use of the largest sample set of fire
fighters to date, approximately 30,000, and its supplement to similar findings in other
research related to cancer and disease in fire fighters.20 Cancers that fire fighters are at
increased risk of developing include those of the respiratory, digestive, and urinary
systems.21
Additionally, this is the first study to report evidence of malignant mesothelioma, a rare
cancer consisting of malignant cells that are found in the linings of the stomach. In
comparison to the U.S. population, fire fighters experienced twice as many incidents of
malignant mesothelioma mortality.22 This information places the spotlight on the
dangerous occupation of fire-fighting and the importance that must be placed on using
clean and safe PPE.
Fire fighters expose themselves to hazards other than fire, which include biological,
chemical, nuclear, electrical, and mechanical hazards among others.23 However, the
pollutants and dangerous particles that result from fire are often detrimental to a fire
fighter’s health. Even during the aftermath of a fire, fire fighters may be exposed to
contaminants that include polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), brominated flame
retardants (BFRs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and other fire particulates.24
Additionally, it has been reported that fire fighters can also be exposed to PCDD/Fs and
PBDD/Fs.25 As fire fighters are becoming increasingly aware of the toxic chemicals they
are exposed to on duty and the associated cancer and disease risks, the emphasis on
using PPE that is (1) able to withstand harsh conditions, and is (2) clean or does not
contain any contaminants from previous activity.
2.5 Research on PPE Use, Care and Maintenance
All equipment used by the fire service requires on-going care and maintenance, from
fire hose to fire apparatus, from ladders to SCBA. For example, NFPA standards have
Page 28 of 199
been in place for much of the last century, with document like NFPA 1961, Standard on
Fire Hose, in existence since 1898. In recent decades a greater awareness of health and
safety issues has resulted in an elevated focus on the care and maintenance of arguably
the most important equipment fire fighters use, their PPE.
Research on the general subject of PPE care and maintenance has seen active on-going
work over the last several decades. This is exemplified by a summary published in 1999
of a status update of research on fire service PPE and future directions.26 This provided
a focus on developing methods to estimate equipment lifespans, development of test
standards for thermal protection, and recommendation for future PPE research.
One research project that provided a framework for other research that followed later
was an effort that summarized the “Research, Testing and Analysis of the
Decontamination of Firefighting Protective Clothing and Equipment.”27 This was a multi-
part effort with the first portion of the work provided in 1996 and the follow-up portion
building upon this work and completed in 1999. The effort reviewed retired PPE and
evaluated the effectiveness of care and maintenance practices under a variety of
situations, and also addressed the impact of multiple cleanings on certain performance
characteristics designed into the original PPE.
One later study addressed this topic as part of the United States Fire Administration
Executive Fire Officer (USFA EFO) program. In a report, “Addressing Maintenance and
Replacement Issues of Structural Firefighting Ensembles for Honolulu Fire fighters,” the
study indicates how some fire departments operate to supply their fire fighters with the
safest PPE and provide the best care and maintenance procedures while operating
within a set budget.28 As an example the study highlights one large department with a
$1 million budget for its care and maintenance program replaces their gear every 6
years then using the gear for recruits in years 7 through 10 before disposal.29
On the topic of in-house versus outsource cleaning of fire-fighting gear, there are
departments that purchase the washing machines and equipment based on cost
effectiveness. The aforementioned study provides an examples of fire departments
conducting its cleaning and inspecting within the department.30 When fire departments
take this approach they usually use one of the two following formats: (1) a centralized
location where each fire station sends its gear, or (2) each fire station within the
department has its own care and maintenance equipment.
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There are natural variations as to how fire departments and fire fighters handle the care
and maintenance of their structural fire-fighting ensembles and ensemble elements.
Specifically there are multiple approaches to complying with NFPA 1851 requirements,
and these variations range from outsourcing to an independent third party organization,
such as a verified ISP, to keeping care and maintenance of gear in-house and having
someone who is trained in the department performing the cleaning, inspecting, and
repairing. A relatively common approach involves fire departments that do much or all
of their inspections and cleaning in‐house, but use an ISP for all repairs. Some
departments do only a portion of their inspections and cleaning in‐house and use an ISP
to assist. It is worth noting that based on the 2014 edition of NFPA 1851, advanced
garment repairs can only be done by the manufacturer, a Verified ISP, or by a Verified
Organization.
Page 31 of 199
CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY
The methodology for this information gathering effort used a data collection approach
that was implemented electronically online via the internet. This was available for
completion for an approximate two-month period starting in late summer, 2013.
The online data collection effort is varied and based on certain distinguishing
characteristics of each of the three key stakeholder groups. These online surveys
focused on capturing pertinent information and address the following primary
constituent groups and sub-groups:
1) Fire Service
a) Line (Fire Fighters)
b) Staff (Administration)
c) Those Involved as Both (e.g., Line Fire Fighters with Policy Responsibility)
2) Independent Service Providers (ISPs)
3) Manufacturers
The process used for creating the surveys consisted of first identifying the key topics to
address. These include the following:
How often are fire fighters and fire departments cleaning their gear?
What is the average shelf-time (time spent sitting in storage) of the gear?
Are fire fighters and fire departments using gear that was manufactured more
than 10 years ago?
What happens to the gear once it is “retired”?
Questions and available answer choices were revised and refined with the help of the
project panel and others. The questions were then summarized in three separate
electronic survey tools that were made available to interested parties.
The electronic survey for the fire service members was designed to have them answer
certain questions that applied to their position within the fire service. The first question
provided a gateway to establish the specific series of questions the respondent would
answer from that point onward. The reasoning for this method was to have those who
are strictly fire fighters answer fire fighter questions and those who function more in the
administrative aspects of the fire service answer administrative questions.
Page 32 of 199
It is acknowledged that data collected in this on-line manner has inherent limitations,
such as the possibility of multiple responses from a single organization, or respondents
may or may not have submitted their information as an official spokesperson
representing their particular organization. The data collected have not been evaluated
in the traditional statistical sense, since the pool of respondents is not well defined
based on the open manner of this on-line based collection effort. Nevertheless, the
information collected herein is considered to be of useful guidance for this topic area.
.
Page 33 of 199
CHAPTER 4: RESULTS
The key part of this project is the on-line data collection. The questions that were used
were designed for (1) members within the fire service, (2) ISPs and (3) PPE
manufacturers. The fire service survey required additional detail for data collection, and
this is displayed in Figure 10.
Figure 10: Diagram of Fire Service Survey Layout
The fire service survey was created to target three specific sub-branches of the fire
service. The three fire service sub-branches are line (fire fighter), staff (administrator),
and both (line and staff). This approach was used because each has specific needs and
interests when it comes to PPE care and maintenance. For example, certain questions
asked about inventory, purchase, and long-time storage, and these are topics applicable
to staff administrators but not necessarily line fire fighters.
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The following sections of this report summarize the results of the surveys. Because the
information is voluminous, it is organized in a logical fashion to assist the user. For the
fire service survey, it was already mentioned that the results are divided into the
following three sub-sections: line, staff, and both. Within these three sections are
parallel subdivisions of questions that address the topics of general information, gear
specific, PPE cleaning, PPE retirement, PPE storage, miscellaneous items, fire exposure,
demographics, and additional information. Figure 11 illustrates the subdivisions within
each section of the fire service survey and the question range for those subdivisions in
the parentheses underneath.
Figure 11: Divisions and Subdivisions within the Fire Service Survey
(Note: the parenthetical numbers refer to the questions in the survey)
Page 35 of 199
4.1 Fire Service
The fire service survey collected a total of 1,148 responses over a period of
approximately two months (August 29-October 31, 2013). The fire service survey began
with the same first question to determine which duties were handled by the
respondent. It is important to note that 1,473 respondents answered Question 1, and
325 of those then exited the survey thus resulting in 1,148 completing the fire service
survey. From the given choices in Question 1, which asked what role the respondent
fulfills within the fire service, 588 chose “Line,” 205 chose “Staff,” and 355 chose “Both.”
Figure 12: Survey Results, Fire Service Members Question 1
Re sp o nse
Pe rce nt
Re sp o nse
Co unt
49.4% 728
19.6% 288
31.0% 457
1473
0skip p e d q ue stio n
Staff (Administrator, Policy Setter, Management)
Wha t is yo ur ro le within the Fire Se rv ice ?
a nswe re d q ue stio n
Line (Firefighter, Officer, On-Scene)
Fire Service FINAL survey
Both
Answe r Op tio ns
Page 37 of 199
4.1.1 Line Fire Service Member Survey Results
Figure 13: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 2
Page 38 of 199
Figure 14: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 3
Response
Percent
Response
Count
48.8% 287
22.3% 131
28.9% 170
588
140skipped question
No
Are your Policies/SOPs/SOGs based on NFPA 1851?
answered question
Yes
Fire Service FINAL survey
Don't Know
Answer Options
Page 39 of 199
Figure 15: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 4
Response
Percent
Response
Count
52.9% 311
32.5% 191
14.6% 86
588
140skipped question
No
Is your compliance with these Policies/SOPs/SOGs mandatory?
answered question
Yes
Fire Service FINAL survey
Don't Know
Answer Options
Page 40 of 199
Figure 16: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 5
Response
Percent
Response
Count
91.3% 537
0.5% 3
7.3% 43
0.9% 5
588
140
What types of firefighting gear do you have in your possession and/or use?
Other
Structural PPE
skipped question
Fire Service FINAL survey
Both
Answer Options
answered question
Proximity PPE
Page 41 of 199
Figure 17: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 6
One TwoMore Than
Two
Response
Count
375 197 15 587
371 199 15 585
323 215 47 585
492 80 13 585
302 219 65 586
441 125 14 580
588
140
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
As a firefighter, how many sets of STRUCTURAL gear do you have assigned to
you (i.e. your responsibility)?
Helmets
Coats
Page 42 of 199
Figure 18: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 7
Manufacturer
Verified ISP
(Independent
Service
Provider)
Person in FD
trained by
Manufacturer
Person in FD
trained by an
ISP
End User
(e.g.,
Firefighter)
Response
Count
13 82 89 70 408 587
13 81 89 70 409 587
9 47 81 65 444 585
9 42 84 64 442 586
8 45 79 65 447 584
9 42 80 62 441 581
588
140
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
In the following table, who handles the STRUCTURAL firefighting PPE INSPECTION within your Fire
Department?
Helmets
Coats
Page 43 of 199
Figure 19: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 8
After Each
Fire or When
Dirty
3 to 5 Times
per Year
2 Times per
Year
1 Time
per YearNever Other
Response
Count
164 64 99 188 34 39 588
164 64 99 187 34 39 587
170 63 84 177 47 43 584
162 64 87 181 49 43 586
167 67 88 175 46 43 586
160 67 87 179 47 44 584
588
140
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
How often do you or your organization INSPECT its structural fire fighting gear (on average)?
Helmets
Coats
Page 44 of 199
Figure 20: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 9
Manufacturer
Verified ISP
(Independent
Service
Provider)
Person in FD
trained by
Manufacturer
Person in FD
trained by an
ISP
End User
(e.g.,
Firefighter)
Response
Count
4 109 38 40 430 588
4 109 38 40 430 588
1 68 34 30 480 586
1 55 26 25 496 582
1 57 32 30 485 584
0 55 26 24 493 576
588
140
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
In the following table, who handles the STRUCTURAL firefighting PPE CLEANING within your Fire Department?
Helmets
Coats
Page 45 of 199
Figure 21: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 10
After Each
Fire or When
Dirty
3 to 5 Times
per Year
2 Times per
Year
1 Time per
YearNever Other
Response
Count
270 47 99 115 19 38 588
270 47 99 114 19 38 587
289 49 82 95 30 42 587
262 36 67 94 71 52 582
276 49 72 97 48 43 585
261 38 65 99 64 53 580
588
140
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
How often do you or your organization CLEAN its structural fire fighting gear (on average)?
Helmets
Coats
Page 46 of 199
Figure 22: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 11
Manufacturer
Verified ISP
(Independent
Service
Provider)
Person in FD
trained by
Manufacturer
Person in FD
trained by an
ISP
End User
(e.g.,
Firefighter)
Response
Count
129 361 27 26 70 588
129 360 27 26 69 587
103 265 22 25 128 525
114 240 37 30 158 558
111 252 21 24 134 524
128 247 21 25 126 529
588
140
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
In the following table, who handles the STRUCTURAL firefighting PPE REPAIRING within your Fire Department?
Helmets
Coats
Page 47 of 199
Figure 23: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 12
Response
Percent
Response
Count
41.8% 246
37.2% 219
20.9% 123
588
140skipped question
Cleaned at a Central FD On-Site Location
Where is your PPE cleaning conducted?
answered question
Cleaned at Each Station
Fire Service FINAL survey
Cleaning Outsourced to Third Party
Answer Options
Page 48 of 199
Figure 24: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 13
Response
Percent
Response
Count
47.2% 58
9.8% 12
41.5% 51
1.6% 2
123
0
Not Applicable
answered question
skipped question
Fire Service FINAL survey
If outsourced to Third Party, is the Third Party a Verified ISP?
Answer Options
Yes
No
Don't Know
Page 49 of 199
Figure 25: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 14
Response
Percent
Response
Count
15.3% 71
9.9% 46
4.1% 19
65.6% 305
5.2% 24
465
0
Fire Service FINAL survey
Verified by Third Party
Answer Options
Not Applicable
Trained by ISP
skipped question
For Fire Departments that directly handle their own PPE cleaning, what are
the qualifications of the staff?
Not Trained
Trained by Manufacturer
answered question
Page 50 of 199
Figure 26: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 15
Destroyed or
Discarded
Used in Non-
Live Fire
Training
Used in Live
Fire Training
Donated to
OthersResold Don' t Know
Response
Count
181 171 24 155 12 134 587
181 170 23 153 12 133 587
279 113 14 97 7 131 581
194 145 18 135 10 156 583
279 117 15 96 8 126 581
231 136 20 119 8 137 578
588
140
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
What happens to the PPE when it is "retired"? (check all that apply)
Helmets
Coats
Page 51 of 199
Figure 27: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 16
1 - 3 Years 3 - 5 years 5 - 7 Years 7 - 10 years 10+ YearsResponse
Count
7 37 84 238 222 588
7 37 86 237 220 587
59 76 84 170 191 580
5 28 67 202 278 580
86 83 81 150 180 580
16 73 104 169 220 582
588
140
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
How frequently is your PPE being "retired"?
Helmets
Coats
Page 52 of 199
Figure 28: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 17
Of the 264 respondents who answered ‘yes’ to this question, 243 provided comments.
The largest number of respondents argued that replacement should be based on use,
condition or inspection by an ISP, rather than time from manufacture. For those who
suggested a specific change in lifespan, twice as many respondents suggested a shorter
lifespan (usually 5 years) than a longer lifespan, in some cases pointing out concerns
regarding contaminants and carcinogens in the used gear. Mention was made that the
durability and quality of different types of gear varied, and that that should be taken
into consideration. The point was made that requirements to replace equipment can be
an issue for some departments.
Response
Percent
Response
Count
44.9% 264
55.1% 324
588
140skipped question
No
In your opinion, do you think the NFPA 1851 Standard should revise the
current 10 year maximum lifespan for structural and proximity firefighting
ensembles and ensemble elements?
answered question
Yes
Fire Service FINAL survey
Answer Options
Page 53 of 199
Figure 29: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 18
Fire Station
Dedicated
PPE Storage
Room
Fire
Apparatus
Personal
VehicleHome Other
Response
Count
435 113 10 101 21 3 588
434 114 10 101 22 3 588
435 112 10 101 21 3 587
433 113 10 101 22 3 587
435 112 10 101 21 3 587
428 114 10 101 23 3 584
588
140
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
For firefighters, when NOT on duty where is your PPE stored? (check all that apply)
Helmets
Coats
Page 54 of 199
Figure 30: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 19
Response
Percent
Response
Count
71.9% 423
26.2% 154
1.9% 11
588
140skipped question
No
Do you believe the area where your protective gear is stored is well
ventilated?
answered question
Yes
Fire Service FINAL survey
Don't Know
Answer Options
Page 55 of 199
Figure 31: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 20
Response
Percent
Response
Count
20.7% 122
79.1% 465
0.2% 1
588
140skipped question
No
Do you believe that your protective gear is exposed to sunlight where it is
stored?
answered question
Yes
Fire Service FINAL survey
Don't Know
Answer Options
Page 56 of 199
Figure 32: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 21
Response
Percent
Response
Count
26.2% 154
69.6% 409
4.3% 25
588
140skipped question
No
Has your gear ever been contaminated with chemicals or hazardous
substances that has required its removal from service?
answered question
Yes
Fire Service FINAL survey
Don't Know
Answer Options
Page 57 of 199
Figure 33: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 22
Response
Percent
Response
Count
68.7% 404
27.6% 162
3.7% 22
588
140skipped question
No
Do you believe your gear is adequately cleaned?
answered question
Yes
Fire Service FINAL survey
Don't Know
Answer Options
Page 58 of 199
Figure 34: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 23
Response
Percent
Response
Count
47.6% 280
49.5% 291
2.9% 17
588
140skipped question
No
Are you concerned about contamination remaining in your clothing?
answered question
Yes
Fire Service FINAL survey
Don't Know
Answer Options
Page 59 of 199
Figure 35: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 24
Response
Percent
Response
Count
5.1% 30
11.2% 66
11.6% 68
15.3% 90
56.8% 334
588
140skipped question
How many live fires (when PPE is exposed to fire) does YOUR FIRE
DEPARTMENT respond to in a given year (12 month period)?
7 - 10
Less Than 3
answered question
Fire Service FINAL survey
5 - 7
Answer Options
10+
3 - 5
Page 60 of 199
Figure 36: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 25
Response
Percent
Response
Count
11.4% 67
25.2% 148
20.7% 122
15.3% 90
27.4% 161
588
140skipped question
How many live fires (when PPE is exposed to fire) do YOU PERSONALLY
respond to in a given year (12 month period)?
7 - 10
Less Than 3
answered question
Fire Service FINAL survey
5 - 7
Answer Options
10+
3 - 5
Page 61 of 199
Figure 37: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 26
Response
Percent
Response
Count
6.0% 35
4.8% 28
6.6% 39
9.5% 56
13.3% 78
19.9% 117
20.7% 122
19.2% 113
588
140skipped question
999,999 - 500,000
24,999 - 10,000
What is the population of the jurisdiction protected by your Fire Department?
249,999 - 100,000
answered question
1,000,000 or more
49,999 - 25,000
Fire Service FINAL survey
499,999 - 250,000
9,999 or less
Answer Options
99,999 - 50,000
Page 62 of 199
Figure 38: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 27
400+ 399-200 199-100 99-50 49-10 9 or fewerResponse
Count
77 24 60 74 127 100 462
7 10 27 59 230 65 398
588
140
Fire Service FINAL survey
skipped question
What is the total number of operation personnel in your Fire Department?
Answer Options
Full-time (Career) Uniform
Part-time (Call or Volunteer)
answered question
Page 63 of 199
Survey respondents were asked if they had any additional comments or information
they wished to share for this project. Many thoughtful and constructive comments
were received, and they are summarized here.
Several of the respondents reported on the current practices in their own fire
departments concerning cleaning and replacement of PPE, and often expressed concern
about the lack of training, proper cleaning equipment and general understanding about
the importance of cleaning PPE. There were also additional comments about the
retirement requirement being based on measures or considerations other than only the
time from manufacture, similar to those mentioned earlier. There were some questions
about patching equipment, degradation of fabrics and material over time, and
protection from UV exposure during storage.
Some additional suggestions included issuing multiple sets of PPE to each firefighter, or
at least multiple hoods; requiring better fit of firefighting gear; developing a method for
record-keeping; providing more training courses, particularly from the manufacturer;
developing an encapsulating bag to store used PPE; and installing commercial washers
and dryers in all fire stations.
Page 65 of 199
4.1.2 Staff Fire Service Member Survey Results
Figure 39: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 31
Response
Percent
Response
Count
87.3% 179
12.7% 26
205
83
Fire Service FINAL survey
skipped question
Does your Fire Department have any Policies/SOPs/SOGs for PPE care and
maintenance?
Answer Options
Yes
No
answered question
Page 66 of 199
Figure 40: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 32
Response
Percent
Response
Count
72.2% 148
20.5% 42
7.3% 15
205
83skipped question
No
Are your Policies/SOPs/SOGs based on NFPA 1851?
answered question
Yes
Fire Service FINAL survey
Don't Know
Answer Options
Page 67 of 199
Figure 41: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 33
Response
Percent
Response
Count
74.6% 153
23.9% 49
1.5% 3
205
83skipped question
No
Is your compliance with these Policies/SOPs/SOGs mandatory?
answered question
Yes
Fire Service FINAL survey
Don't Know
Answer Options
Page 68 of 199
Figure 42: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 34
Manufacturer
Verified ISP
(Independent
Service
Provider)
Person in FD
trained by
Manufacturer
Person in FD
trained by an
ISP
End User
(e.g.,
Firefighter)
Response
Count
3 52 58 41 103 205
3 51 57 40 101 203
1 20 54 46 118 202
1 19 57 47 117 203
1 21 53 46 119 203
1 19 56 44 121 203
205
83skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
In the following table, who handles the STRUCTURAL firefighting PPE INSPECTION within your Fire
Department?
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
Page 69 of 199
Figure 43: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 35
After Each
Fire or When
Dirty
3 to 5 Times
per Year
2 Times per
Year
1 Time per
YearNever Other
Response
Count
63 21 52 51 2 16 205
62 21 52 50 2 16 203
67 22 47 48 3 16 203
65 20 45 52 3 17 202
67 21 48 47 3 15 201
63 20 47 51 3 17 201
205
83skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
How often do you or your organization INSPECT its structural fire fighting gear (on average)?
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
Page 70 of 199
Figure 44: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 36
Manufacturer
Verified ISP
(Independent
Service
Provider)
Person in FD
trained by
Manufacturer
Person in FD
trained by an
ISP
End User
(e.g.,
Firefighter)
Response
Count
2 55 23 20 125 205
2 54 22 20 124 203
0 24 22 20 145 203
0 20 19 16 152 200
0 26 22 16 144 201
0 22 20 15 152 202
205
83skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
In the following table, who handles the STRUCTURAL firefighting PPE CLEANING within your Fire
Department?
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
Page 71 of 199
Figure 45: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 37
After Each
Fire or When
Dirty
3 to 5 Times
per Year
2 Times per
Year
1 Time per
YearNever Other
Response
Count
103 18 34 33 4 13 205
103 18 33 33 4 13 204
108 19 24 28 7 17 203
105 16 24 29 8 21 203
106 17 23 29 9 19 203
106 16 20 28 12 20 202
205
83skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
How often do you or your organization CLEAN its structural fire fighting gear (on average)?
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
Page 72 of 199
Figure 46: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 38
Manufacturer
Verified ISP
(Independent
Service
Provider)
Person in FD
trained by
Manufacturer
Person in FD
trained by an
ISP
End User
(e.g.,
Firefighter)
Response
Count
36 142 18 6 17 205
36 141 18 6 17 204
31 92 19 8 29 169
36 85 27 11 36 184
32 89 19 8 30 169
41 88 18 10 30 177
205
83skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
In the following table, who handles the STRUCTURAL firefighting PPE REPAIRING within your Fire Department?
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
Page 73 of 199
Figure 47: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 39
Response
Percent
Response
Count
35.6% 73
42.0% 86
22.4% 46
205
83skipped question
Cleaned at a Central FD On-Site Location
Where is your PPE cleaning conducted?
answered question
Cleaned at Each Station
Fire Service FINAL survey
Cleaning Outsourced to Third Party
Answer Options
Page 74 of 199
Figure 48: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 40
Response
Percent
Response
Count
80.4% 37
4.3% 2
13.0% 6
2.2% 1
46
0
If outsourced to Third Party, is the Third Party a Verified ISP?
Not Applicable
Yes
skipped question
Fire Service FINAL survey
Don't Know
Answer Options
answered question
No
Page 75 of 199
Figure 49: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 41
Response
Percent
Response
Count
22.0% 35
18.9% 30
8.2% 13
48.4% 77
2.5% 4
159
0skipped question
For Fire Departments that directly handle their own PPE cleaning, what are
the qualifications of the staff?
Not Trained
Trained by Manufacturer
answered question
Fire Service FINAL survey
Verified by Third Party
Answer Options
Not Applicable
Trained by ISP
Page 76 of 199
Figure 50: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 42
Response
Percent
Response
Count
26.4% 42
21.4% 34
11.9% 19
64.2% 102
19.5% 31
23.3% 37
159
0skipped question
Answer Options
Active Ingredients per Chemical MSDS
PH Levels in Dilution while Cleaning
answered question
When choosing cleaning chemicals for your department's in-house cleaning,
which of the following does your department take into consideration? (select
all that apply)
Specific Cleaning Efficacy Info from Vendor
PH Levels in Concentrate
Don't Know
Fire Service FINAL survey
Flash Point of Chemical
Page 77 of 199
Figure 51: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 43
Destroyed or
Discarded
Used in Non-
Live Fire
Training
Used in Live
Fire Training
Donated to
OthersResold
Don' t
Know
Response
Count
94 56 6 77 4 4 205
94 56 6 77 4 4 205
133 31 4 45 1 6 203
108 46 6 60 4 5 202
136 31 3 43 1 7 203
121 40 4 55 1 5 203
205
83skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
What happens to the PPE when it is "retired"? (check all that apply)
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
Page 78 of 199
Figure 52: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 44
1 - 3 Years 3 - 5 years 5 - 7 Years 7 - 10 years 10+ YearsResponse
Count
4 9 38 98 56 205
4 9 37 98 56 204
33 38 28 60 44 203
5 7 19 87 85 203
50 30 30 49 42 201
11 35 42 67 48 203
205
83skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
How frequently is your PPE being "retired"?
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
Page 79 of 199
Figure 53: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 45
Of the 106 respondents who answered ‘yes’ to this question, 92 provided comments.
As for line firefighters, the largest number of staff respondents argued that replacement
should be based on use, condition or inspection by an ISP, rather than time from
manufacture. For those who suggested a specific change in lifespan, twice as many
respondents suggested a longer lifespan than a shorter lifespan. Some mentioned that
the durability of different types of gear varied, especially helmets and gloves at the two
extremes, and that that should be taken into consideration. A couple of respondents
made the point that requirements to replace equipment can be an issue for some
departments.
Response
Percent
Response
Count
51.7% 106
48.3% 99
205
83skipped question
No
In your opinion, do you think the NFPA 1851 Standard should revise the
current 10 year maximum lifespan for structural and proximity firefighting
ensembles and ensemble elements?
answered question
Yes
Fire Service FINAL survey
Answer Options
Page 80 of 199
Figure 54: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 46
Fire Station
Dedicated
PPE Storage
Room
Fire
Apparatus
Personal
VehicleHome Other
Response
Count
139 67 4 29 9 4 205
139 67 4 29 9 4 205
139 66 5 29 9 4 204
139 67 5 29 9 4 205
137 67 5 30 9 4 205
137 66 5 30 9 4 203
205
83skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
For firefighters, when NOT on duty where is your PPE stored? (check all that apply)
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
Page 81 of 199
Figure 55: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 47
Response
Percent
Response
Count
76.6% 157
19.0% 39
4.4% 9
205
83skipped question
No
Do you believe the area where your protective gear is stored is well
ventilated?
answered question
Yes
Fire Service FINAL survey
Don't Know
Answer Options
Page 82 of 199
Figure 56: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 48
Response
Percent
Response
Count
21.0% 43
77.1% 158
2.0% 4
205
83skipped question
No
Do you believe that your protective gear is exposed to sunlight where it is
stored?
answered question
Yes
Fire Service FINAL survey
Don't Know
Answer Options
Page 83 of 199
Figure 57: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 49
0-2 Months 2-6 Months 6-12 Months 1-2 Years 2-5 Years 5+ Years N/AResponse
Count
41 16 28 38 22 30 30 205
41 16 27 38 22 30 30 204
16 21 49 48 23 25 23 205
26 12 42 40 30 30 24 204
17 20 52 49 22 21 22 203
34 13 32 41 29 23 33 205
205
83skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
For administrators, what is the AVERAGE shelf time for the PPE inventory? (If not Administrator, please select N/A for
each row choice)
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
Page 84 of 199
Figure 58: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 50
0-2 Months 2-6 Months 6-12 Months 1-2 Years 2-5 Years 5+ Years N/AResponse
Count
24 9 15 23 42 61 30 204
24 9 15 23 42 61 30 204
11 6 23 40 48 53 24 205
18 7 14 31 39 68 26 203
12 5 28 38 44 54 23 204
20 8 11 34 38 59 33 203
205
83skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
For administrators, what is the WORST CASE (longest) shelf time for the PPE inventory? (If not Administrator, please
select N/A for each row choice)
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
Page 85 of 199
Figure 59: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 51
Response
Percent
Response
Count
4.4% 9
7.8% 16
10.2% 21
12.2% 25
65.4% 134
205
83skipped question
How many live fires (when PPE is exposed to fire) does YOUR FIRE
DEPARTMENT respond to in a given year (12 month period)?
7 - 10
Less Than 3
answered question
Fire Service FINAL survey
5 - 7
Answer Options
10+
3 - 5
Page 86 of 199
Figure 60: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 52
Response
Percent
Response
Count
34.1% 70
14.1% 29
12.7% 26
11.2% 23
27.8% 57
205
83skipped question
How many live fires (when PPE is exposed to fire) do YOU PERSONALLY
respond to in a given year (12 month period)?
7 - 10
Less Than 3
answered question
Fire Service FINAL survey
5 - 7
Answer Options
10+
3 - 5
Page 87 of 199
Figure 61: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 53
Response
Percent
Response
Count
6.3% 13
7.3% 15
9.8% 20
13.7% 28
14.6% 30
18.0% 37
17.6% 36
12.7% 26
205
83
Fire Service FINAL survey
499,999 - 250,000
9,999 or less
Answer Options
99,999 - 50,000
skipped question
999,999 - 500,000
24,999 - 10,000
What is the population of the jurisdiction protected by your Fire Department?
249,999 - 100,000
answered question
1,000,000 or more
49,999 - 25,000
Page 88 of 199
Figure 62: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 54
Survey respondents were asked if they had any additional comments or information
they wished to share for this project. Many thoughtful and constructive comments
were received. Most of the comments provided detail on current practice, particularly
involving cleaning, at their respective fire departments. Others provided very good
suggested changes to the survey questions, if this project is repeated. Issues with
proper storage of gear and lack of training were also mentioned.
400+ 399-200 199-100 99-50 49-10 9 or fewerResponse
Count
44 14 31 32 43 27 191
5 5 9 16 47 38 120
205
83
Fire Service FINAL survey
skipped question
What is the total number of operation personnel in your Fire Department?
Answer Options
Full-time (Career) Uniform
Part-time (Call or Volunteer)
answered question
Page 89 of 199
4.1.3 Both Fire Service Members Survey Results
Figure 63: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 58
Response
Percent
Response
Count
77.5% 275
22.5% 80
355
102
Fire Service FINAL survey
skipped question
Does your Fire Department have any Policies/SOPs/SOGs for PPE care and
maintenance?
Answer Options
Yes
No
answered question
Page 90 of 199
Figure 64: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 59
Response
Percent
Response
Count
58.0% 206
26.2% 93
15.8% 56
355
102skipped question
No
Are your Policies/SOPs/SOGs based on NFPA 1851?
answered question
Yes
Fire Service FINAL survey
Don't Know
Answer Options
Page 91 of 199
Figure 65: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 60
Response
Percent
Response
Count
57.7% 205
36.3% 129
5.9% 21
355
102skipped question
No
Is your compliance with these Policies/SOPs/SOGs mandatory?
answered question
Yes
Fire Service FINAL survey
Don't Know
Answer Options
Page 92 of 199
Figure 66: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 61
Response
Percent
Response
Count
88.7% 315
0.3% 1
10.1% 36
0.8% 3
355
102
What types of firefighting gear do you have in your possession and/or use?
Other
Structural PPE
skipped question
Fire Service FINAL survey
Both
Answer Options
answered question
Proximity PPE
Page 93 of 199
Figure 67: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 62
One TwoMore Than
Two
Response
Count
215 131 8 354
213 130 8 351
203 121 25 349
271 68 11 350
167 155 29 351
249 92 8 349
355
102skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
As a firefighter, how many sets of STRUCTURAL gear do you have assigned to
you (i.e. your responsibility)?
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
Page 94 of 199
Figure 68: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 63
Manufacturer
Verified ISP
(Independent
Service
Provider)
Person in FD
trained by
Manufacturer
Person in FD
trained by an
ISP
End User
(e.g.,
Firefighter)
Response
Count
6 74 66 63 226 355
6 74 65 63 224 353
6 33 63 64 246 352
6 30 66 67 242 353
6 30 64 63 247 353
6 28 64 62 244 350
355
102skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
In the following table, who handles the STRUCTURAL firefighting PPE INSPECTION within your Fire
Department?
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
Page 95 of 199
Figure 69: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 64
After Each
Fire or When
Dirty
3 to 5 Times
per Year
2 Times per
Year
1 Time per
YearNever Other
Response
Count
87 41 70 123 16 18 355
86 41 69 123 16 18 353
93 38 64 118 20 19 352
87 42 63 124 20 17 353
91 41 63 119 19 19 352
86 40 65 121 22 18 352
355
102skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
How often do you or your organization INSPECT its structural fire fighting gear (on average)?
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
Page 96 of 199
Figure 70: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 65
Manufacturer
Verified ISP
(Independent
Service
Provider)
Person in FD
trained by
Manufacturer
Person in FD
trained by an
ISP
End User
(e.g.,
Firefighter)
Response
Count
4 81 39 27 237 355
4 81 38 27 236 354
4 44 33 21 270 349
5 31 28 20 287 351
4 37 33 21 280 351
3 32 29 21 284 348
355
102skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
In the following table, who handles the STRUCTURAL firefighting PPE CLEANING within your Fire
Department?
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
Page 97 of 199
Figure 71: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 66
After Each
Fire or When
Dirty
3 to 5 Times
per Year
2 Times per
Year
1 Time per
YearNever Other
Response
Count
182 34 56 51 9 23 355
180 34 56 51 9 23 353
193 35 46 38 14 23 349
170 24 47 40 36 29 346
184 30 44 37 32 23 350
180 24 42 36 34 30 346
355
102skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
How often do you or your organization CLEAN its structural fire fighting gear (on average)?
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
Page 98 of 199
Figure 72: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 67
Manufacturer
Verified ISP
(Independent
Service
Provider)
Person in FD
trained by
Manufacturer
Person in FD
trained by an
ISP
End User
(e.g.,
Firefighter)
Response
Count
70 229 16 12 41 355
70 228 15 12 40 354
52 137 13 17 82 293
60 127 34 31 90 325
57 126 14 15 86 291
73 135 14 17 75 304
355
102skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
In the following table, who handles the STRUCTURAL firefighting PPE REPAIRING within your Fire
Department?
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
Page 99 of 199
Figure 73: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 68
Response
Percent
Response
Count
37.7% 134
39.2% 139
23.1% 82
355
102skipped question
Cleaned at a Central FD On-Site Location
Where is your PPE cleaning conducted?
answered question
Cleaned at Each Station
Fire Service FINAL survey
Cleaning Outsourced to Third Party
Answer Options
Page 100 of 199
Figure 74: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 69
Response
Percent
Response
Count
68.3% 56
6.1% 5
25.6% 21
0.0% 0
82
0
If outsourced to Third Party, is the Third Party a Verified ISP?
Not Applicable
Yes
skipped question
Fire Service FINAL survey
Don't Know
Answer Options
answered question
No
Page 101 of 199
Figure 75: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 70
Response
Percent
Response
Count
21.6% 59
17.2% 47
4.0% 11
51.3% 140
5.9% 16
273
0skipped question
For Fire Departments that directly handle their own PPE cleaning, what are
the qualifications of the staff?
Not Trained
Trained by Manufacturer
answered question
Fire Service FINAL survey
Verified by Third Party
Answer Options
Not Applicable
Trained by ISP
Page 102 of 199
Figure 76: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 71
Response
Percent
Response
Count
17.6% 48
15.4% 42
9.2% 25
48.0% 131
12.8% 35
43.2% 118
273
0skipped question
Answer Options
Active Ingredients per Chemical MSDS
PH Levels in Dilution while Cleaning
answered question
When choosing cleaning chemicals for your department's in-house cleaning,
which of the following does your department take into consideration? (select
all that apply)
Specific Cleaning Efficacy Info from Vendor
PH Levels in Concentrate
Don't Know
Fire Service FINAL survey
Flash Point of Chemical
Page 103 of 199
Figure 77: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 72
Destroyed or
Discarded
Used in Non-
Live Fire
Training
Used in Live
Fire Training
Donated to
OthersResold Don' t Know
Response
Count
169 113 11 101 8 19 355
169 113 11 100 8 19 355
241 57 5 55 5 23 355
183 92 8 87 8 23 353
240 61 5 57 4 22 354
205 80 7 83 6 21 354
355
102skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
What happens to the PPE when it is "retired"? (check all that apply)
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
Page 104 of 199
Figure 78: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 73
1 - 3 Years 3 - 5 years 5 - 7 Years 7 - 10 years 10+ YearsResponse
Count
3 8 39 146 159 355
3 8 39 146 159 355
47 48 46 100 111 352
3 8 25 127 188 351
65 67 29 88 102 351
12 43 51 110 135 351
355
102skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
How frequently is your PPE being "retired"?
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
Page 105 of 199
Figure 79: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 74
Of the 225 respondents who answered ‘yes’ to this question, 202 provided comments.
Most suggested that replacement should be based on use, condition or inspection by an
ISP, rather than time from manufacture. For those who suggested a specific change in
lifespan, slightly more respondents suggested a shorter lifespan than a longer lifespan,
with others mentioned that it depended on the specific item, with helmets and boots
having longer lifespans. Several respondents made the point that requirements to
replace equipment can be an issue for some departments.
Response
Percent
Response
Count
63.4% 225
36.6% 130
355
102skipped question
No
In your opinion, do you think the NFPA 1851 Standard should revise the
current 10 year maximum lifespan for structural and proximity firefighting
ensembles and ensemble elements?
answered question
Yes
Fire Service FINAL survey
Answer Options
Page 106 of 199
Figure 80: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 75
Fire Station
Dedicated
PPE Storage
Room
Fire
Apparatus
Personal
VehicleHome Other
Response
Count
248 82 13 98 14 2 355
247 82 12 98 15 2 354
248 82 13 97 13 2 355
248 82 13 98 13 2 355
247 81 14 97 15 2 353
245 81 12 98 15 2 351
355
102skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
For firefighters, when NOT on duty where is your PPE stored? (check all that apply)
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
Page 107 of 199
Figure 81: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 76
Response
Percent
Response
Count
75.8% 269
21.4% 76
2.8% 10
355
102skipped question
No
Do you believe the area where your protective gear is stored is well
ventilated?
answered question
Yes
Fire Service FINAL survey
Don't Know
Answer Options
Page 108 of 199
Figure 82: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 77
Response
Percent
Response
Count
20.6% 73
78.0% 277
1.4% 5
355
102skipped question
No
Do you believe that your protective gear is exposed to sunlight where it is
stored?
answered question
Yes
Fire Service FINAL survey
Don't Know
Answer Options
Page 109 of 199
Figure 83: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 78
0-2 Months 2-6 Months 6-12 Months 1-2 Years 2-5 Years 5+ Years N/AResponse
Count
63 20 32 43 48 55 93 354
63 20 32 43 48 55 93 354
28 34 61 66 38 42 86 355
43 24 42 47 47 63 88 354
29 31 64 64 42 38 86 354
52 24 37 51 44 55 88 351
355
102skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
For administrators, what is the AVERAGE shelf time for the PPE inventory? (If not Administrator, please select N/A for each row
choice)
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
Page 110 of 199
Figure 84: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 79
0-2 Months 2-6 Months 6-12 Months 1-2 Years 2-5 Years 5+ Years N/AResponse
Count
33 14 19 26 48 124 90 354
33 14 19 26 48 123 90 353
14 11 31 60 53 101 85 355
21 6 29 37 49 125 87 354
12 14 33 52 57 101 85 354
26 11 22 38 47 119 87 350
355
102skipped question
Answer Options
Gloves
Pants
answered question
For administrators, what is the WORST CASE (longest) shelf time for the PPE inventory? (If not Administrator, please select
N/A for each row choice)
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Fire Service FINAL survey
Hoods
Page 111 of 199
Figure 85: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 80
Response
Percent
Response
Count
54.9% 195
40.6% 144
4.5% 16
355
102skipped question
No
Has your gear ever been contaminated with chemicals or hazardous
substances that has required its removal from service?
answered question
Yes
Fire Service FINAL survey
Don't Know
Answer Options
Page 112 of 199
Figure 86: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 81
Response
Percent
Response
Count
78.0% 277
15.8% 56
6.2% 22
355
102skipped question
No
Do you believe your gear is adequately cleaned?
answered question
Yes
Fire Service FINAL survey
Don't Know
Answer Options
Page 113 of 199
Figure 87: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 82
Response
Percent
Response
Count
49.0% 174
47.9% 170
3.1% 11
355
102skipped question
No
Are you concerned about contamination remaining in your clothing?
answered question
Yes
Fire Service FINAL survey
Don't Know
Answer Options
Page 114 of 199
Figure 88: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 83
Response
Percent
Response
Count
7.0% 25
13.0% 46
13.0% 46
18.0% 64
49.0% 174
355
102skipped question
How many live fires (when PPE is exposed to fire) does YOUR FIRE
DEPARTMENT respond to in a given year (12 month period)?
7 - 10
Less Than 3
answered question
Fire Service FINAL survey
5 - 7
Answer Options
10+
3 - 5
Page 115 of 199
Figure 89: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 84
Response
Percent
Response
Count
15.8% 56
20.6% 73
16.6% 59
16.1% 57
31.0% 110
355
102skipped question
How many live fires (when PPE is exposed to fire) do YOU PERSONALLY
respond to in a given year (12 month period)?
7 - 10
Less Than 3
answered question
Fire Service FINAL survey
5 - 7
Answer Options
10+
3 - 5
Page 116 of 199
Figure 90: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 85
Response
Percent
Response
Count
5.1% 18
4.2% 15
2.3% 8
7.6% 27
9.3% 33
11.8% 42
27.6% 98
32.1% 114
355
102
Fire Service FINAL survey
499,999 - 250,000
9,999 or less
Answer Options
99,999 - 50,000
skipped question
999,999 - 500,000
24,999 - 10,000
What is the population of the jurisdiction protected by your Fire Department?
249,999 - 100,000
answered question
1,000,000 or more
49,999 - 25,000
Page 117 of 199
Figure 91: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 86
400+ 399-200 199-100 99-50 49-10 9 or fewerResponse
Count
28 9 22 28 87 73 247
7 6 14 34 172 43 276
355
102
Fire Service FINAL survey
skipped question
What is the total number of operation personnel in your Fire Department?
Answer Options
Full-time (Career) Uniform
Part-time (Call or Volunteer)
answered question
Page 118 of 199
Survey respondents were asked if they had any additional comments or information
they wished to share for this project. Many thoughtful and constructive comments
were received. Most of the comments described practices in the respondents'
respective fire departments, and many others were comments on the issue of gear
retirement discussed earlier.
The need for more and better training and education was also mentioned. One
commenter asked that wildland PPE be addressed better, in terms of cleaning and
decontamination.
Page 119 of 199
4.2 Independent Service Providers (ISPs)
The data collection for Independent Service Providers (ISPs) consisted of 24 questions
and addressed a wide range of topics within PPE care and maintenance. A total of 17
different ISPs ultimately responded, residing in the states of Kentucky, Maryland, Texas,
New York, Maine, New Mexico, Georgia, Ohio, California, Pennsylvania, Florida, and
Oregon, as well as British Columbia and Alberta, Canada. Ten of the ISPs provided
additional comments and feedback on PPE care and maintenance at the conclusion of
the survey.
The results show that ISPs provide services other than inspecting, cleaning, and
repairing. Additionally, it is important to highlight that ISPs are supposed to follow the
most current edition of the NFPA 1851 standard, however, the results indicate this is not
the case.
When asked about items to include in future revisions to NFPA 1851, respondents
indicated that input from those within the ISP community with many years of
experience should be incorporated and that a third-party governing body to oversee the
compliance of NFPA 1851 should be established.
Page 120 of 199
Figure 92: Survey Results, ISP Question 1
Re sp o nse
Pe rce nt
Re sp o nse
Co unt
29.4% 5
70.6% 12
0.0% 0
0.0% 0
17
0
Are yo ur Po lic ie s/SOPs/SOGs b a se d o n NFPA 1851?
Don't Know
Yes, 2008 Ed.
sk ip p e d q ue stio n
ISP FINAL Survey
No
Answe r Op tio ns
a nswe re d q ue stio n
Yes, 2014 Ed.
Page 121 of 199
Figure 93: Survey Results, ISP Question 2
None Less T han 10 10 to 25 More T han 25 Response Count
0 1 2 14 17
2 1 1 13 17
0 0 2 15 17
3 1 4 8 16
1 0 0 6 7
4
17
0
For Fire Department c lients , wha t se rv ices do you p rov ide and fo r how many customers?
PPE Removal/Destruction
PPE Inspection
If "Other", please specify:
ISP FINAL Survey
PPE Repair
sk ipped question
Answer Op tions
Other
PPE Cleaning
answered question
Page 122 of 199
Figure 94: Survey Results, ISP Question 3
Inspect Clean Repa ir Othe rResponse
Count
17 15 17 5 17
17 15 17 5 17
15 14 6 1 16
15 13 10 3 16
15 14 2 1 16
14 13 6 1 15
17
0
For specific Fire Se rv ice PPE, wha t se rv ices do you p rov ide? (check a ll tha t app ly)
Helmets
Coats
Boots
ISP FINAL Survey
Hoods
sk ipped question
Answer Op tions
Gloves
Pants
answered question
Page 123 of 199
Figure 95: Survey Results, ISP Question 4
Whenever
D irty
Eve ry 6
MonthsAnnua lly 2 Years 2+ Years
Response
Count
5 5 7 0 0 17
5 5 7 0 0 17
5 4 6 0 0 15
5 2 8 0 0 15
5 5 6 0 0 16
5 2 9 0 0 16
17
0
For specific Fire Se rv ice PPE, how o ften do you RECOMMEND ADVANCED CLEANING to your c lients?
(check a ll tha t app ly)
Helmets
Coats
Boots
ISP FINAL Survey
Hoods
sk ipped question
Answer Op tions
Gloves
Pants
answered question
Page 124 of 199
Figure 96: Survey Results, ISP Question 5
Afte r Ea ch
Fire o r Whe n
D irty
3 to 5 T ime s
p e r Ye a r
2 T ime s p e r
Ye a r
1 T ime p e r
Ye a rNe ve r Othe r
Re sp o nse
Co unt
2 3 2 8 0 2 17
2 3 2 8 0 2 17
2 2 3 7 1 2 17
1 0 2 7 4 2 16
1 1 3 6 3 2 16
1 0 2 7 4 2 16
17
0
Ho w o fte n d o o rg a niza tio ns yo u se rv ice c le a n the ir s truc tura l fire fig hting g e a r (o n a ve ra g e )?
Helmets
Coats
Boots
ISP FINAL Survey
Hoods
sk ip p e d q ue stio n
Answe r Op tio ns
Gloves
Pants
a nswe re d q ue stio n
Page 125 of 199
Figure 97: Survey Results, ISP Question 6
Re sp o nse
Pe rce nt
Re sp o nse
Co unt
23.5% 4
35.3% 6
5.9% 1
23.5% 4
11.8% 2
17
0skip p e d q ue stio n
Wha t p e rce nt o f yo ur Fire De p a rtme nt c lie nts d o yo u b e lie ve a re co mp lia nt
with NFPA 1851?
50 - 70%
0 -15%
a nswe re d q ue stio n
ISP FINAL Survey
30 - 50%
Answe r Op tio ns
70 - 100%
15 - 30%
Page 126 of 199
Figure 98: Survey Results, ISP Question 7
Re sp o nse
Pe rce nt
Re sp o nse
Co unt
29.4% 5
29.4% 5
29.4% 5
11.8% 2
0.0% 0
17
0skip p e d q ue stio n
Wha t is the p rima ry re a so n yo ur Fire De p a rtme nt c lie nts a re no t co mp lia nt
with NFPA 1851?
Not familiar with NFPA 1851
Cost of compliance
a nswe re d q ue stio n
ISP FINAL Survey
Not a priority
Answe r Op tio ns
Not trained
Limited Budget
Page 127 of 199
Figure 99: Survey Results, ISP Question 8
Re sp o nse
Pe rce nt
Re sp o nse
Co unt
88.2% 15
82.4% 14
29.4% 5
64.7% 11
58.8% 10
5.9% 1
17
0sk ip p e d q ue stio n
Answe r Op tio ns
Active Ingredients per Chemical MSDS
PH Levels in Dilution while Cleaning
a nswe re d q ue stio n
Whe n cho o s ing c le a ning che mica ls fo r yo ur c le a ning p ro ce ss, which o f the
fo llo wing d o e s yo ur o rg a niza tio n ta ke into co ns id e ra tio n? (se le ct a ll tha t
a p p ly)
Specific Cleaning Efficacy Info from Vendor
PH Levels in Concentrate
None of These
ISP FINAL Survey
Flash Point of Chemical
Page 128 of 199
Figure 100: Survey Results, ISP Question 9
Re sp o nse
Pe rce nt
Re sp o nse
Co unt
29.4% 5
11.8% 2
11.8% 2
11.8% 2
35.3% 6
17
0sk ip p e d q ue stio n
Ho w fre q ue ntly a re yo u re q ue ste d to p e rfo rm hyd ro sta tic te s ting o f
mo is ture b a rrie rs in g a rme nts (co a ts /p a nts) tha t a re mo re tha n 3 ye a rs
o ld ?
Between 50 - 70% of all cleanings and inspections
0 - 15% of all cleaning/inspections
a nswe re d q ue stio n
ISP FINAL Survey
Between 30 - 50% of all cleanings and inspections
Answe r Op tio ns
70 - 100% of all cleanings and inspections
Between 15 - 30% of all cleanings and inspections
Page 129 of 199
Figure 101: Survey Results, ISP Question 10
0 -15% o f a ll
ga rments
tested
Be tween 15 -
30% o f a ll
ga rments
tested
Be tween 30 -
50% o f a ll
ga rments
tested
Be tween 50 -
70% o f a ll
ga rments
tested
70 - 100% o f
a ll ga rments
tested
Response
Count
11 5 0 1 0 17
3 7 1 4 1 16
17
0
ISP FINAL Survey
sk ipped question
When you conduct hyd rosta tic testing , how o ften do you encounte r fa il ing results on the mo is ture ba rrie r?
Answer Op tions
Garments 1 - 3 years old
Garments 3+ years old
answered question
Page 130 of 199
Figure 102: Survey Results, ISP Question 11
Re sp o nse
Pe rce nt
Re sp o nse
Co unt
82.4% 14
17.6% 3
17
0
ISP FINAL Survey
sk ip p e d q ue stio n
Do yo u o ffe r tra ining fo r e nd use rs o n PPE ca re a nd ma inte na nce tha t
me e ts the re q uire me nt o f NFPA 1851?
Answe r Op tio ns
Yes
No
a nswe re d q ue stio n
Page 131 of 199
Figure 103: Survey Results, ISP Question 12
Response
Percent
Response
Count
21.4% 3
14.3% 2
100.0% 14
14.3% 2
14
0
How is the training delivered to end users? (check all that apply)
Other
Online
skipped question
ISP FINAL Survey
In-Person (class)
Answer Options
answered question
CD or DVD
Page 132 of 199
Figure 104: Survey Results, ISP Question 13
Re sp o nse
Pe rce nt
Re sp o nse
Co unt
70.6% 12
29.4% 5
17
0
ISP FINAL Survey
sk ip p e d q ue stio n
Do e s yo ur o rg a niza tio n co nd uct sp e c ia lize d c le a ning (i.e .,
d e co nta mina tio n o f c lo thing tha t is co nta mina te d with e ithe r che mica ls o r
o the r ha za rd o us sub sta nce s)?
Answe r Op tio ns
Yes
No
a nswe re d q ue stio n
Page 133 of 199
Figure 105: Survey Results, ISP Question 14
Re sp o nse
Pe rce nt
Re sp o nse
Co unt
100.0% 17
82.4% 14
64.7% 11
47.1% 8
23.5% 4
17
0skip p e d q ue stio n
Wha t typ e s o f co nta mina nts d o e s yo ur o rg a nzia tio n g e ne ra lly p ro v id e
c le a ning se rv ice s fo r? (che ck a ll tha t a p p ly)
Specific Industrial Chemicals
Heavy Fire Ground Soiling
a nswe re d q ue stio n
ISP FINAL Survey
Blood and Bodily Fluids
Answe r Op tio ns
Asbestos or Other Hazardous Particulates
Oils, Greases, and Similar Petrochemical Products
Page 134 of 199
Figure 106: Survey Results, ISP Question 15
Re sp o nse
Pe rce nt
Re sp o nse
Co unt
88.2% 15
11.8% 2
17
0
ISP FINAL Survey
sk ip p e d q ue stio n
Do e s yo ur o rg a niza tio n re fuse to c le a n o r d e co nta mina te c lo thing with
ce rta in sp e cific co nta mina nts?
Answe r Op tio ns
Yes
No
a nswe re d q ue stio n
Page 135 of 199
Figure 107: Survey Results, ISP Question 16
Re sp o nse
Pe rce nt
Re sp o nse
Co unt
52.9% 9
70.6% 12
58.8% 10
82.4% 14
64.7% 11
76.5% 13
17
0skip p e d q ue stio n
Answe r Op tio ns
Recommendations from Cleaning Agent Vendors
Information Provided on the Identified Contaminant
a nswe re d q ue stio n
Wha t info rma tio n d o e s yo ur o rg a niza tio n re ly o n fo r d e te rmining ho w to
re mo ve sp e cific co nta mina nts? (che ck a ll tha t a p p ly)
Recommendations from Manufacturers or Material
Information Provided by the Fire Department
Expertise Provided by Outside Organizations
ISP FINAL Survey
Recommendations from Chemical Companies
Page 136 of 199
Figure 108: Survey Results, ISP Question 17
Re sp o nse
Pe rce nt
Re sp o nse
Co unt
100.0% 17
0.0% 0
17
0
ISP FINAL Survey
sk ip p e d q ue stio n
Ha s yo ur o rg a niza tio n ma d e re co mme nd a tio ns tha t the g e a r tha t yo u ha ve
e ithe r c le a ne d o r insp e cte d sho uld b e re tire d a nd ta ke n o ut o f se rv ice ?
Answe r Op tio ns
Yes
No
a nswe re d q ue stio n
Page 137 of 199
Figure 109: Survey Results, ISP Question 18
Response
Pe rcent
Response
Count
0.0% 0
11.8% 2
41.2% 7
23.5% 4
23.5% 4
17
0skipped question
If answered "Yes" to p rev ious Question, wha t is the lead ing cause o f making a recommenda tion fo r
re tiring gea r o r tak ing it out o f se rv ice?
The clothing per item has a manufacture date that is more than 10 years old
The clothing cannot be adequately cleaned
answered question
ISP FINAL Survey
The clothing requires extensive repairs and is under an economical to make those repairs
Answer Op tions
Other (please specify)
There are specific contaminants on the clothing that cannot be removed
Page 138 of 199
Figure 110: Survey Results, ISP Question 19
Re sp o nse
Pe rce nt
Re sp o nse
Co unt
17.6% 3
82.4% 14
17
0
ISP FINAL Survey
sk ip p e d q ue stio n
If a nswe re d "Ye s" to Que stio n 16, ha ve d e p a rtme nts p ro v id ing the g e a r
d isa g re e d with yo ur re co mme nd a tio ns?
Answe r Op tio ns
Yes
No
a nswe re d q ue stio n
Page 139 of 199
Figure 111: Survey Results, ISP Question 20
Re sp o nse
Pe rce nt
Re sp o nse
Co unt
58.8% 10
0.0% 0
58.8% 10
17.6% 3
64.7% 11
17.6% 3
23.5% 4
41.2% 7
17.6% 3
17
0sk ip p e d q ue stio n
ISP FINAL Survey
Addition of more definitive specifications for cleaning processes and detergents
Preparation of criteria for verification of ISP inspection and cleaning practices
Answe r Op tio ns
Inclusion of criteria for specialized cleaning, including decontamination
a nswe re d q ue stio n
Provision of greater guidance for how structural firefighting protective clothing should be selected
Development of more extensive criteria to determine when gear should be retired
Which o f the fo llo wing a re a s d o yo u think re p re se nt the 3 hig he st p rio ritie s fo r future re v is io ns to NFPA 1851?
(che ck to p 3 tha t a p p ly)
Establishment of specific criteria for determining cleaning effectiveness
Other (please specify)
Development of associated educational material explaining the standard
Changes to allow more leeway in the performance of hydrostatic testing and interpretation of results
Page 140 of 199
Figure 112: Survey Results, ISP Question 21
Re sp o nse
Pe rce nt
Re sp o nse
Co unt
0.0% 0
29.4% 5
47.1% 8
11.8% 2
11.8% 2
17
0
ISP FINAL Survey
Multi-State
Answe r Op tio ns
International
Regional/Statewide
sk ip p e d q ue stio n
Wha t is the g e o g ra p hic e xte nt o f yo ur custo me r b a se ?
National
Local
a nswe re d q ue stio n
Page 141 of 199
Survey respondents were asked if they had any additional comments or information
they wished to share for this project. One respondent suggested clarifying the
procedure for sanitization of PPE. Another mentioned the culture that equates dirty
gear with being a great firefighter. Another suggested establishing a pricing standard
and another requested work on the verification process for repairs.
Page 143 of 199
4.3 Manufacturers
The manufacturers’ survey was comprised of 18 questions, designed to gather
information related to services provided for PPE care and maintenance. There were a
total of seven respondents to the survey, representing a fraction of all PPE
manufacturers. The manufacturers that responded to the survey reside in the states of
Kentucky, New Hampshire, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, along with one
manufacturer from New Zealand. It is noted that six of the respondents completed the
survey while one only partially filled out the survey.
The limited results suggest that PPE manufacturers sell their gear both directly and
indirectly (through distributors) to fire departments. Additionally, an overwhelming
majority of the respondents selected “developing of more extensive criteria to
determine when gear should be retired” as the most common of the three highest
priorities for future revisions to be made in NFPA 1851.
Page 144 of 199
Figure 113: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 1
Re sp o nse
Pe rce nt
Re sp o nse
Co unt
14.3% 1
28.6% 2
14.3% 1
0.0% 0
42.9% 3
7
0skip p e d q ue stio n
If yo ur o rg a niza tio n p ro v id e s NFPA 1851 se rv ice s, a re yo ur
Po lic ie s/SOPs/SOGs b a se d o n NFPA 1851?
Don't Know
Yes, 2008 Ed.
a nswe re d q ue stio n
Manufacturers FINAL Survey
No
Answe r Op tio ns
N/A
Yes, 2014 Ed.
Page 145 of 199
Figure 114: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 2
No ne Le ss T ha n 10 10 to 25 Mo re T ha n 25Re sp o nse
Co unt
2 1 0 2 5
4 0 0 1 5
2 2 0 1 5
3 0 0 1 4
3 0 0 1 4
0 0 0 7 7
0 0 0 1 1
1
7
0
Manufacturers FINAL Survey
PPE Repair
If "Other", please specify:
Answe r Op tio ns
PPE Rental/Lease
sk ip p e d q ue stio n
PPE Cleaning
Other
Fo r Fire De p a rtme nt c lie nts , wha t se rv ice s d o yo u p ro v id e a nd fo r ho w ma ny custo me rs? (Che ck a ll
tha t a p p ly)
PPE Removal/Destruction
a nswe re d q ue stio n
PPE Inspection
PPE Sales
Page 146 of 199
Figure 115: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 3
Inspect Clean Repa irRent o r
LeaseSe ll Othe r None
Response
Count
2 1 2 1 3 0 1 5
2 1 2 1 3 0 1 5
0 0 0 0 2 1 3 5
0 0 0 0 3 0 2 5
0 0 0 0 2 0 2 4
1 1 2 0 4 0 0 4
7
0skipped question
Answer Op tions
Gloves
Pants
answered question
For spec ific Fire Se rv ice PPE, wha t se rv ices do you p rov ide? (check a ll tha t app ly)
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Manufacturers FINAL Survey
Hoods
Page 147 of 199
Figure 116: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 4
No t
Ap p lica b le
Whe ne ve r
D irty
Eve ry 6
Mo nthsAnnua lly 2 Ye a rs 2+ Ye a rs
No
Re co mme nd a tio n
Re sp o nse
Co unt
0 2 1 1 0 0 2 5
0 2 1 1 0 0 2 5
2 1 0 0 0 0 2 5
1 1 0 1 0 0 3 5
1 1 0 1 0 0 2 4
0 2 0 1 0 0 2 4
7
0sk ip p e d q ue stio n
Answe r Op tio ns
Gloves
Pants
a nswe re d q ue stio n
Fo r sp e c ific Fire Se rv ice PPE, ho w o fte n d o yo u RECOMMEND ADVANCED CLEANING to yo ur c lie nts? (che ck a ll tha t a p p ly)
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Manufacturers FINAL Survey
Hoods
Page 148 of 199
Figure 117: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 5
Afte r Ea ch
Fire o r Whe n
D irty
3 to 5 T ime s
p e r Ye a r
2 T ime s p e r
Ye a r
1 T ime p e r
Ye a rNe ve r Othe r Do n' t Kno w
Re sp o nse
Co unt
0 1 0 0 0 1 3 5
0 1 0 0 0 1 3 5
0 1 0 0 0 2 3 6
0 0 0 0 0 2 3 5
0 0 0 0 0 1 3 4
0 0 0 0 0 1 3 4
7
0sk ip p e d q ue stio n
Answe r Op tio ns
Gloves
Pants
a nswe re d q ue stio n
If yo u p ro v id e c le a ning se rv ice s, ho w o fte n d o o rg a niza tio ns yo u se rv ice c le a n the ir s truc tura l fire fig hting g e a r (o n a ve ra g e )?
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Manufacturers FINAL Survey
Hoods
Page 149 of 199
Figure 118: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 6
Primary Modera te Limited No t UsedResponse
Count
1 1 0 1 3
6 0 0 0 6
0 2 0 1 3
0 0 2 1 3
0 0 0 1 1
7
0skipped question
How does your new PPE p roduct reach the fina l customer (i.e ., the Fire fighte r)? (check a ll tha t app ly)
Direct to Firefighter
Manufacturers Retail
answered question
Manufacturers FINAL Survey
Direct to Fire Department
Answer Op tions
Other
3rd Party Distributor
Page 150 of 199
Figure 119: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 7
Re sp o nse
Pe rce nt
Re sp o nse
Co unt
85.7% 6
14.3% 1
7
0
Manufacturers FINAL Survey
sk ip p e d q ue stio n
Do yo u o ffe r tra ining fo r e nd use rs o n PPE ca re a nd ma inte na nce tha t
me e ts the re q uire me nt o f NFPA 1851?
Answe r Op tio ns
Yes
No
a nswe re d q ue stio n
Page 151 of 199
Figure 120: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 8
Re sp o nse
Pe rce nt
Re sp o nse
Co unt
60.0% 3
20.0% 1
60.0% 3
20.0% 1
5
2
Ho w is the tra ining d e live re d to e nd use rs? (che ck a ll tha t a p p ly)
Other
Online
sk ip p e d q ue stio n
Manufacturers FINAL Survey
In-Person (class)
Answe r Op tio ns
a nswe re d q ue stio n
CD or DVD
Page 152 of 199
Figure 121: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 9
0-2 Months 2-6 Months 6-12 Months 1-2 Years 2-5 Years 5+ YearsResponse
Count
1 1 1 0 0 0 3
1 1 1 0 0 0 3
1 0 1 0 0 0 2
3 0 0 0 0 0 3
0 1 1 0 0 0 2
0 1 3 0 0 0 4
6
1skipped question
Answer Op tions
Gloves
Pants
answered question
Wha t is the AVERAGE she lf time fo r your new PPE invento ry be fo re it reaches the purchase r? (check a ll tha t app ly)
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Manufacturers FINAL Survey
Hoods
Page 153 of 199
Figure 122: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 10
0-2 Months 2-6 Months 6-12 Months 1-2 Years 2-5 Years 5+ YearsResponse
Count
1 0 0 2 0 0 3
1 0 0 2 0 0 3
0 0 1 1 0 0 2
1 1 1 0 0 0 3
0 0 0 2 0 0 2
0 0 1 1 2 0 4
6
1skipped question
Answer Op tions
Gloves
Pants
answered question
Wha t is the WORST CASE (longest dura tion) she lf time fo r your new PPE invento ry be fo re it reaches the purchase r?
(check a ll tha t app ly)
Helmets
Coats
Boots
Manufacturers FINAL Survey
Hoods
Page 154 of 199
Figure 123: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 11
Re sp o nse
Pe rce nt
Re sp o nse
Co unt
16.7% 1
83.3% 5
0.0% 0
6
1skip p e d q ue stio n
No
Do e s yo ur o rg a niza tio n ha nd le the re tire me nt a nd d e structio n o f o ld PPE?
a nswe re d q ue stio n
Yes
Manufacturers FINAL Survey
Other
Answe r Op tio ns
Page 155 of 199
Figure 124: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 12
Re sp o nse
Pe rce nt
Re sp o nse
Co unt
66.7% 4
33.3% 2
6
1
Manufacturers FINAL Survey
sk ip p e d q ue stio n
Do e s yo ur o rg a niza tio n re co mme nd sp e cific c le a ning a g e nts , c le a ning
p ro ce sse s, o r a sso c ia te d p ro d ucts fo r the ca re a nd ma inte na nce o f
c lo thing a nd e q uip me nt (e .g ., a p a rticula r l ine o f d e te rg e nts a re rinse
a id s)?
Answe r Op tio ns
Yes
No
a nswe re d q ue stio n
Page 156 of 199
Figure 125: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 13
Response
Percent
Response
Count
75.0% 3
25.0% 1
0.0% 0
0.0% 0
0.0% 0
4
0skipped question
If answered "Yes" to Question 12, what information do you rely on for making
these recommendations? (check all that apply)
Recommendations from Other Organizations
Vendor Provided Information
answered question
Manufacturers FINAL Survey
Independent Testing
Answer Options
Other (please specify)
In-House Testing
Page 157 of 199
Figure 126: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 14
Response
Pe rcent
Response
Count
0.0% 0
83.3% 5
16.7% 1
66.7% 4
6
1
How do you hand le inquiries re la ted to the decontamina tion o f your p roducts invo lv ing d iffe rent
contaminants? (check a ll tha t app ly)
We Refer The Inquiry To A Different Organization
No Recommendations Are Provided
sk ipped question
Manufacturers FINAL Survey
For Some Instances And Contaminants, We Make Specific Recommendations
Answer Op tions
answered question
We Provide General Guidelines Only Without Specific Recommendations
Page 158 of 199
Figure 127: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 15
Re sp o nse
Pe rce nt
Re sp o nse
Co unt
33.3% 2
33.3% 2
33.3% 2
33.3% 2
16.7% 1
16.7% 1
83.3% 5
16.7% 1
33.3% 2
6
1sk ip p e d q ue stio n
Manufacturers FINAL Survey
Addition of more definitive specifications for cleaning processes and detergents
Preparation of criteria for verification of ISP inspection and cleaning practices
Answe r Op tio ns
Inclusion of criteria for specialized cleaning, including decontamination
a nswe re d q ue stio n
Provision of greater guidance for how structural firefighting protective clothing should be selected
Development of more extensive criteria to determine when gear should be retired
Which o f the fo llo wing a re a s d o yo u think re p re se nt the 3 hig he st p rio ritie s fo r future re v is io ns to NFPA 1851?
(che ck to p 3 tha t a p p ly)
Establishment of specific criteria for determining cleaning effectiveness
Other (please specify)
Development of associated educational material explaining the standard
Changes to allow more leeway in the performance of hydrostatic testing and interpretation of results
Page 159 of 199
Figure 128: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 16
Re sp o nse
Pe rce nt
Re sp o nse
Co unt
0.0% 0
0.0% 0
0.0% 0
33.3% 2
66.7% 4
6
1skip p e d q ue stio n
Wha t is the g e o g ra p hic e xte nt o f yo ur custo me r b a se ?
National
Local
a nswe re d q ue stio n
Manufacturers FINAL Survey
Multi-State
Answe r Op tio ns
International
Regional/Statewide
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CHAPTER 5: SUMMARY OBSERVATIONS
The goal of this project has been to provide a data collection summary of current
practice and policies for fire service PPE care and maintenance, and this information is
provided in the preceding sections of this report. This provides useful background
information to help guide standards revisions and to support future research addressing
cleaning, decontamination, retirement, and related care and maintenance issues.
The primary approach to achieve the project goal is through an extensive information
collection effort using online survey tools, supported by a brief review of the applicable
literature and typical practices within this community. The questions in these online
surveys have been focused toward capturing pertinent information and address the
following primary constituent groups and sub-groups:
1) Fire Service
a) Line (Fire Fighters)
b) Staff (Administration)
c) Those Involved as Both (e.g., Line Fire Fighters with Policy Responsibility)
2) Independent Service Providers (ISPs)
3) Manufacturers
It’s acknowledged that the approach used herein to collect data by means of on-line
data collection methods is limited. Any future analysis of this data should take these
limitations into account. The approach that has been used (herein) was chosen based
on resource limitations, and future work should consider more robust data sampling
methods that are more appropriate for data analysis.
More specific to this point, the number of respondents for the fire service (1148), ISPs
(17) and manufacturers (7) represent only a fraction of the actual total number from
each of these constituent groups, nor do they represent the opinions and/or results of
their groups as a whole. Further, the number of responses from the ISPs and
manufacturers are very low and therefore limited in value.
In summary, this data has not been evaluated in the traditional statistical sense, since
the pool of respondents is not well defined based on the open manner of this on-line-
based information collection effort. It could be argued for example that only fire service
organizations with an interest in this subject responded, and thus bias may be present in
Page 162 of 199
the overall results. Nevertheless, the information collected herein is considered to be of
some value when used with the understanding of these analytical limitations.
The following are the general (high-level) summary observations taken from the data
collected by this effort:
The role of standards has value in providing a baseline for addressing this topic.
The standardization of certain technical details of PPE care and maintenance is
inherently challenging due to multiple complex factors such as types of gear,
variability of usage, spectrum of materials involved, different maintenance
practices, etc.
More education and out-reach is needed with the user community to
communicate best practices.
Further research on this topic is needed, including consideration of a more
comprehensive data collection effort using traditional techniques that will allow
for full statistical analysis.
Page 163 of 199
REFERENCES
FOOTNOTES:
The following references are cited throughout this report:
1. Meeting Summary of Urban Fire Forum, Quincy, MA on 4-7 October 2012,
Metropolitan Fire Chiefs, IAFC/NFPA membership Section, National Fire
Protection Association, Quincy MA.
2. Summary of NFPA Code Fund Projects, Fire Protection Research Foundation,
Quincy MA, January 2013.
3. NFPA 1851, “Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of Protective
Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting”, National Fire
Protection Association, Quincy MA, 2014 edition.
4. Cinnamon, M., Trenkamp, S., Cotterill, D., Easter, E., & University of Kentucky.
(2013). Post-Use Analysis of Firefighter Turnout Gear: Phases I, II, & III. Interflam:
Fire Science & Engineering Conference Proceedings. Volume 2, 1383-1394.
5. NFPA 1971, “Standard on Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and
Proximity Fire Fighting”, National Fire Protection Association, Quincy MA, 2013
edition.
6. Section 10.1.2, NFPA 1851, “Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of
Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting”,
National Fire Protection Association, Quincy MA, 2014 edition.
7. Cinnamon, M., Trenkamp, S., Cotterill, D., Easter, E., & University of Kentucky.
(2013). Post-Use Analysis of Firefighter Turnout Gear: Phases I, II, & III. Interflam:
Fire Science & Engineering Conference Proceedings. Volume 2, 1383-1394.
8. Advisory Service Data Log for NFPA 1851, National Fire Protection Association,
Compiled 20 Jun 2013.
9. Tutterow, R., “Helmets: The 10-Year Service Life”, Fire Apparatus Magazine, Vol.
17, issue 12, Retrieved on 24 October 2013, Website:
http://www.fireapparatusmagazine.com/articles/print /volume-17/issue-
12/departments/keeping-it-safe/helmets-the-10-year-service-life.html
10. Section 10.2, NFPA 1851, “Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of
Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting”,
National Fire Protection Association, Quincy MA, 2014 edition.
11. Ibid.
Page 164 of 199
12. NFPA 1971, “Standard on Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and
Proximity Fire Fighting”, National Fire Protection Association, Quincy MA, 2013
edition.
13. NFPA 1851, “Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of Protective
Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting”, National Fire
Protection Association, Quincy MA, 2014 edition.
14. Ibid.
15. “Third Needs Assessment of the U.S. Fire Service”, National Fire Protection
Association: Fire Analysis and Research Division, 2011.
16. Table 3-D, page 83, “Third Needs Assessment of the U.S. Fire Service”, National
Fire Protection Association: Fire Analysis and Research Division, 2011.
17. Figure 3-8, page 84, “Third Needs Assessment of the U.S. Fire Service”, National
Fire Protection Association: Fire Analysis and Research Division, 2011.
18. Figure 3-9, page 85, “Third Needs Assessment of the U.S. Fire Service”, National
Fire Protection Association: Fire Analysis and Research Division, 2011.
19. Daniels, R. D., Kubale, T. L., Yiin, J. H., Dahm, M. M., Hales, T. R., Baris, D., Zahm
S. H., Beaumont J. J., Waters K. M., & Pinkerton, L. E., “Mortality and Cancer
Incidence in a Pooled Cohort of U.S. firefighters from San Francisco, Chicago and
Philadelphia (1950–2009)”, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 2013.
20. Ibid.
21. Ibid.
22. Ibid.
23. Dolez, P. I., & Vu-Khanh, T., “Recent Developments and Needs in Materials Used
for Personal Protective Equipment and their Testing”, International Journal of
Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 15(4), 347-62, 2009.
24. Shaw, S. D., Berger, M. L., Harris, J. H., Yun, S. H., Wu, Q., Liao, C., Blum, A.,
Stefani, A., & Kannan, K., “Persistent Organic Pollutants Including Polychlorinated
and Polybrominated Dibenzo-p-dioxins and Dibenzofurans in Firefighters from
Northern California”, Chemosphere, 91(1), 1386-94, 2013.
25. Ibid.
26. Torvi, D. A. and Hadjisophocleous, G. V., “Research in Protective Clothing for
Firefighters: State of the Art and Future Directions”, Fire Tech, Vol, 35, No. 2,
1999.
27. Stull, J. O. and Stull, G. G., “Research, Testing and Analysis of the
Decontamination of Firefighting Protective Clothing and Equipment”, U.S. Fire
Administration, Final Report EME-96-CO-0505, Feb 1999.
28. Kealoha, Jr., E. K, and Honolulu Fire Department, “Addressing Maintenance and
Replacement Issues of Structural Firefighting Ensembles for Honolulu Fire
Page 165 of 199
fighters”, 2011 Emmitsburg, MD: National Fire Academy, cited 25 Oct 2013,
Website: www.usfa.fema.gov/pdf/efop/efo45404.pdf.
29. Ibid.
30. Ibid.
ADDITIONAL READING:
The following references relate to this report and are cited for additional reading:
Aronson, K. J., Tomlinson, G. A., & Smith, L., “Mortality Among Fire Fighters in
Metropolitan Toronto”, American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 26(1), 89-101,
1994.
Baris, D., Garrity, T. J., Telles, J. L., Heineman, E. F., Olshan, A., & Zahm, S. H.,
“Cohort Mortality Study of Philadelphia Firefighters”, American Journal of
Industrial Medicine, 39(5), 463-476, 2001.
Bates, M. N., “Registry‐Based Case-Control Study of Cancer in California Fire
Fighters. American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 50(5), 339-344, 2007.
Baxter, C. S., Ross, C. S., Fabian, T., Borgerson, J. L., Shawon, J., Gandhi, P. D.,
Dalton, J. M., & Lockey, J. E., “Ultrafine Particle Exposure During Fire
Suppression—Is It an Important Contributory Factor for Coronary Heart Disease
in Firefighters?” Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 52(8),
791-796, 2010.
Beaumont, J. J., Chu, G. S., Jones, J. R., Schenker, M. B., Singleton, J. A.,
Piantanida, L. G., & Reiterman, M., “An Epidemiologic Study of Cancer and Other
Causes of Mortality in San Francisco Firefighters. American Journal of Industrial
Medicine, 19(3), 357-372, 1991.
Berry, C., McNeely, A., Beauregard, K., & Haritos, S, “A Guide to Personal
Protective Equipment”, Raleigh, NC: N.C. Department of Labor; 2008. Retrieved
on October 24, 2013.http://www.nclabor.com/osha/etta/indguide/ig25.pdf
Demers, P. A., Heyer, N. J., & Rosenstock, L., “Mortality Among Firefighters from
Three Northwestern United States Cities. British Journal of Industrial Medicine,
49(9), 664-670, 1992.
Eiser, D. N., “Problems in Personal Protective Equipment Selection”, Performance
of Protective Clothing, 341-46, 1988.
IARC, International Agency for Research on Cancer, IARC Working Group on the
Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans, Painting, Firefighting, and Shiftwork.
IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans, 98:9–764,
2010.
Page 166 of 199
Kang, D., Davis, L. K., Hunt, P., & Kriebel, D., “Cancer Incidence Among Male
Massachusetts Firefighters, 1987–2003. American Journal of Industrial Medicine,
51(5), 329-335, 2008.
“Malignant Mesothelioma”, National Cancer Institute of the National Institutes
of Health. Cited 24 October 2013, Website:
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/ malignantmesothelioma.
Plat, M. C. J., Frings-Dresen, M. H., & Sluiter, J. K., “Impact of Chronic Diseases on
Work Ability in Ageing Firefighters”, Journal of Occupational Health”, 54(2), 158-
163, 2012.
Tornling, G., Gustavsson, P., & Hogstedt, C., “Mortality and Cancer Incidence in
Stockholm Fire Fighters”, American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 25(2), 219-
228, 1994.
Vena, J. E., & Fiedler, R. C., “Mortality of a Municipal‐Worker Cohort: IV, Fire
Fighters”, . American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 11(6), 671-684, 1987.
Page 167 of 199
ANNEX A: FIRE SERVICE SURVEY ANNOUNCEMENT
Figure 129: Announcement for Fire Service PPE Survey
Page 187 of 199
ANNEX C: INDEPENDENT SERVICE PROVIDER (ISP) SURVEY QUESTIONS
Figure 147: ISP Survey, Page 1
Page 197 of 199
ANNEX E: INDEPENDENT SERVICE PROVIDER (ISP) CONTACTS
Target Organizations for ISP Survey
911 Clean
Advanced Fire Gear Repair
Alberta Fire Gear Cleaning Ltd
Associated Fire & Safety
Atlantic Bunker Gear Services
Bay Area Gear Repair
Bergeron Protective Clothing
Bunker Gear Clean
Burnett & Co.
Certified Ensemble Services
Choice Clean Gear, LLC
Compass Trades LLC
Cowboy Cleaners LTD
Cumings Fire & Safety
D & D Mountain Air Cleaners
Done Right Fire Gear Repair
ECMS – Nevada, Inc.
Elliott Enterprises Inc.
Fire Safety Services
Fire Service Management Ltd.
Fire W.I.R.E. LLC
Firefighters Equipment of New York
FIRM Canada
Fort Worth Fire Dept.
Fred’s 2 The Rescue
Fresh Gear
Gear Clean, Inc.
Gear Cleaning Solutions, LLC
Gear Wash, LLC
Georgian Firegear Service
Globe Manufacturing Company, LLC
Gloves, Inc.
Honeywell First Responder Products
Page 198 of 199
Target Organizations for ISP Survey
Inservus Management
Isotech Instrumentation Inc.
Laundry Services Inc.
LION TotalCare
Marken PPE Restoration
Maryland Fire Equipment Corp.
Merchant MultiService LLC
Minerva Cleaners
Northwest Safety Clean
Phoenix Safety Outfitters
PPE Care
Quaker Safety Products Corp.
Rainbow Cleaners
Sani-Gear Fire
Scott’s PPE
Shamrock Gear Restoration, LLC
Solutions of New Orleans
The Fire Center, Inc.
Turnout Express LLC
Turnout Maintenance Co.
Turnout Management
Turnout Services
Wayest Safety Inc.
Page 199 of 199
ANNEX F: MANUFACTURER CONTACTS
Target Organizations for Manufacturer Survey
Black Diamond
Bristol Fire Apparel Inc.
Dawn Enterprises Inc.
E.D. Bullard Co.
Fire Master
FireDex, LLC.
Fireman’s Shield LLC
Globe Manufacturing Company, LLC
Glove Crafters, Inc.
Honeywell First Responder Products
Innotex Inc.
Lakeland Industries Inc.
Lion Apparel, Inc.
Majestic Fire Apparel Inc.
MSA Co.
PGI, Inc.
Prosafety Gears
Protective Industrial Products Inc.
Quaker Safety Products
Quest Protective Clothing
Ricochet Mfg. Co. Inc.
Shelby Specialty Gloves
Southcombe Brothers Ltd
Stanfield’s Ltd.
STC Footwear Inc.
TECGEN
Tech Trade LLC
U Protec Apparel Tech Co. Ltd.
Veridian
Weinbrenner Shoe Co. Inc.