Personal Protective Equipment

Objectives (1 of 2) Describe the role of personal protective equipment (PPE) for firefighters. Define the relationship between PPE and national standards and regulations. List the components and unique elements of structural ensembles.

Objectives (2 of 2) Describe a serviceability inspection of structural PPE. Describe the conditions and damage that render structural PPE unserviceable. Given a structural PPE ensemble, appropriately don the ensemble within one minute. Demonstrate a team check following PPE donning.

Introduction (1 of 2) Firefighters respond to incidents that are often immediately dangerous to life and death. PPE provides minimum protection. Proper streams, zoning, and sound tactics provide a greater measure of safety.

Introduction (2 of 2) PPE is the first thing put on and the last thing taken off. PPE can take many forms. Each piece of equipment has limitations. Most injuries occur when firefighters fail to properly don or secure PPE.

Personal Protective Equipment Factors Firefighter PPE has evolved significantly. PPE developed as a result of efforts of labor groups, membership associations, equipment manufacturers, and government entities. NFPA provides the forum for this consensus building process.

Standards and Regulations All PPE and equipment worn by a firefighter should meet current applicable standards. The federal government, through OSHA, is involved in PPE use. EPA, CDCP, ANSI, ASTM, and NIOSH also are involved with PPE.

NFPA Compliant PPE Information Tag Year of Manufacture Type of liner Type of outer shell Size NFPA Standard # May include personnel name Station – Department etc.

Types of Personal Protective Equipment NFPA has developed standards for: – Structural - Our Bunker suites – Proximity - Do not have nor will be issue – Wildland - Bunker gear exceeds this standard.

Structural PPE (1 of 2) Made of three layers: outer shell, vapor barrier, and thermal barrier – Help meet thermal protective criteria

Structural PPE (2 of 2) Thermal protective performance (TPP) refers to the time a wearer has before a second degree or greater burn will be sustained. – TPP for structural firefighting coats is 35 seconds.

Helmets Originally designed to shed water and avoid hot embers Today – Impact resistant – Provide thermal insulation – Earflaps, chin strap, and face shields/eye protection

Gloves Gloves are essential in the structural ensemble. NFPA standards require that gloves provide thermal protection and protection from cuts and punctures.

Other Components of Structural PPE Firefighting has a growing choice of approved footwear. While they must all meet NFPA standards, each type has its advantages and disadvantages. Structural protective hoods have a TPP less than that of a structural coat. Structural Firefighting PPE Ensemble Components Helmet Hood Goggles Radio SCBA Flashlight Coat PASS Device Pants Pocket Tools Boots Gloves

Personal Protective Equipment

Miscellaneous PPE Components Different forms of eye and hearing protection Personal Alert Safety System (PASS) Often required to wear a work uniform NFPA Standard 1975 – Addresses station/work uniforms for firefighters.

PASS Devices

Care and Maintenance of Personal Protective Equipment (1 of 2) NFPA requires all care instructions to be clearly labeled. Equipment exposed to biological and chemical contaminants must be decontaminated. PPE should be routinely inspected.

Care and Maintenance of Personal Protective Equipment (2 of 2) Manufacturers instructions and information – Safety considerations – Limitations and use procedures – Marking recommendations and restrictions – Warranty information – Sizing/adjustment procedures – Recommended storage practices – Inspection frequency and details – Donning and doffing procedures

PPE Effectiveness: “Street Smarts” PPE is only effective if it is worn properly. Good PPE habits and a positive attitude can minimize injuries. Taking shortcuts with PPE can lead to injury. Good habits include fast and proper donning of appropriate PPE.

PPE Street Smart Suggestions Keep PPE clean. Practice team checks. Position PPE for rapid donning. Always use prudent judgment. PPE includes flashlight, tool, radio, earplugs, eye protection, accountability tag, and a partner. Practice proper donning and doffing. Stay hydrated when wearing PPE.

Donning PPE

Summary PPE should always be used during any firefighting operation. Proper tactics and procedures provide safety. Standards and regulations have been established for safety and effectiveness of PPE. Various types of PPE are used based on the type of firefighting. PPE must be cared for properly.