South River Machar Fire Department

South River Machar Fire Department S.O.G. Operational Guidelines 3:014 Section: Subject:

Fire Ground Operations Care and Maintenance of Bunker Gear Date: July 26, 2013 Page 1 of 2

1:00 Purpose

1:01 To ensure that bunker gear is kept in clean condition and inspected on a regular basis ensuring that it will provide the maximum level of protection for the firefighter at all times.

2:00 Scope

2:01 This Guideline applies to all firefighters working with the South River Machar Fire Department.

3:00 Storage

3:01 All bunker gear and personal protective equipment issued to a firefighter must be stored at the South River Machar Fire Station.

3:02 Bunker gear should never be stored where it will be exposed to direct sunlight.

4:00 Inspection

4:01 Firefighters are required to keep their personal protective equipment clean, cleaning it only at the fire hall utilizing approved cleaning methods.

4:02 Firefighters are required to inspect their bunker gear at least twice annually and forward the bunker gear inspection form to the fire chief.

4:03 All bunker gear will be sent out for cleaning and inspection after 5 years from the date of manufacture and again at 8 years after the date of manufacture.

4:04 All bunker gear will be sent out for cleaning and inspection after it has been exposed to excessive heat or chemical damage or any other conditions that would possibly damage the bunker gear.

4:05 All components of the firefighters personal protective equipment will be retired from service after 10 years from the date of manufacture. 5:00 Cleaning Procedure

5:01 All Bunker Gear must be washed using approved cleaner such as Citra Squeeze in cold water.

5:02 Heavy soiled areas can be lightly scrubbed with concentrated Citra Squeeze prior to being machine washed.

5:02 Garment’s should be separated prior to washing, washing the liners separate from the shells.

5:03 All components of the bunker gear must be air dried only, never dried in a dryer, gear should not be hung in direct sunlight.

6:00 Responsibility

6:01 It is the responsibility of all Firefighter’s to ensure this guideline is adhered to in its entirety.

6:02 It is the responsibility of all Fire Officers to ensure this guideline is adhered to in its entirety.

Fire Chiefs Signature Date July 26, 2013