Web: E-Mail: [email protected] 02169-7471 U.S.A. Massachusetts, Quincy, Park One Batterymarch Foundation Protection Research The Fire

www.nfpa.org/foundation TECHNICAL NOTES the the Personal ProtectivePersonal Equipment(PPE)and Care Maintenance Practices Fire Service, Independent Service Providers,and PPE Manufacturers Data Collection Summary for PPE Care andMaintenance Paul Kashmanian and Casey C.Grant,Paul KashmanianandCasey P.E.

Fire ProtectionFire Foundation Research

A Summary of Dataon A Summaryof © February 2014© February Collected fromCollected Prepared by:Prepared

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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)

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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.”

Fire Service FINAL survey

What is your role within the Fire Service?

Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt Line (Firefighter, Officer, On-Scene) 49.4% 728 Staff (Administrator, Policy Setter, Management) 19.6% 288 Both 31.0% 457 answered question 1473 skipped question 0

Figure 12: Survey Results, Fire Service Members Question 1

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4.1.1 Line Fire Service Member Survey Results

Figure 13: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 2

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Fire Service FINAL survey

Are your Policies/SOPs/SOGs based on NFPA 1851?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 48.8% 287 No 22.3% 131 Don't Know 28.9% 170 answered question 588 skipped question 140

Figure 14: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 3

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Fire Service FINAL survey

Is your compliance with these Policies/SOPs/SOGs mandatory?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 52.9% 311 No 32.5% 191 Don't Know 14.6% 86 answered question 588 skipped question 140

Figure 15: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 4

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Fire Service FINAL survey

What types of firefighting gear do you have in your possession and/or use?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Structural PPE 91.3% 537 Proximity PPE 0.5% 3 Both 7.3% 43 Other 0.9% 5 answered question 588 skipped question 140

Figure 16: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 5

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Fire Service FINAL survey

As a firefighter, how many sets of STRUCTURAL gear do you have assigned to you (i.e. your responsibility)? More Than Response Answer Options One Two Two Count Coats 375 197 15 587 Pants 371 199 15 585 Hoods 323 215 47 585 Helmets 492 80 13 585 Gloves 302 219 65 586 Boots 441 125 14 580 answered question 588 skipped question 140

Figure 17: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 6

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Fire Service FINAL survey

In the following table, who handles the STRUCTURAL firefighting PPE INSPECTION within your Fire Department? Verified ISP Person in FD Person in FD End User (Independent Response Answer Options Manufacturer trained by trained by an (e.g., Service Count Manufacturer ISP Firefighter) Provider) Coats 13 82 89 70 408 587 Pants 13 81 89 70 409 587 Hoods 9 47 81 65 444 585 Helmets 9 42 84 64 442 586 Gloves 8 45 79 65 447 584 Boots 9 42 80 62 441 581 answered question 588 skipped question 140

Figure 18: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 7

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Fire Service FINAL survey

How often do you or your organization INSPECT its structural fire fighting gear (on average)? After Each 3 to 5 Times 2 Times per 1 Time Response Answer Options Fire or When Never Other per Year Year per Year Count Dirty Coats 164 64 99 188 34 39 588 Pants 164 64 99 187 34 39 587 Hoods 170 63 84 177 47 43 584 Helmets 162 64 87 181 49 43 586 Gloves 167 67 88 175 46 43 586 Boots 160 67 87 179 47 44 584 answered question 588 skipped question 140

Figure 19: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 8

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Fire Service FINAL survey

In the following table, who handles the STRUCTURAL firefighting PPE CLEANING within your Fire Department?

Verified ISP Person in FD Person in FD End User (Independent Response Answer Options Manufacturer trained by trained by an (e.g., Service Count Manufacturer ISP Firefighter) Provider) Coats 4 109 38 40 430 588 Pants 4 109 38 40 430 588 Hoods 1 68 34 30 480 586 Helmets 1 55 26 25 496 582 Gloves 1 57 32 30 485 584 Boots 0 55 26 24 493 576 answered question 588 skipped question 140

Figure 20: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 9

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Fire Service FINAL survey

How often do you or your organization CLEAN its structural fire fighting gear (on average)?

After Each 3 to 5 Times 2 Times per 1 Time per Response Answer Options Fire or When Never Other per Year Year Year Count Dirty Coats 270 47 99 115 19 38 588 Pants 270 47 99 114 19 38 587 Hoods 289 49 82 95 30 42 587 Helmets 262 36 67 94 71 52 582 Gloves 276 49 72 97 48 43 585 Boots 261 38 65 99 64 53 580 answered question 588 skipped question 140

Figure 21: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 10

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Fire Service FINAL survey

In the following table, who handles the STRUCTURAL firefighting PPE REPAIRING within your Fire Department?

Verified ISP Person in FD Person in FD End User (Independent Response Answer Options Manufacturer trained by trained by an (e.g., Service Count Manufacturer ISP Firefighter) Provider) Coats 129 361 27 26 70 588 Pants 129 360 27 26 69 587 Hoods 103 265 22 25 128 525 Helmets 114 240 37 30 158 558 Gloves 111 252 21 24 134 524 Boots 128 247 21 25 126 529 answered question 588 skipped question 140

Figure 22: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 11

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Fire Service FINAL survey

Where is your PPE cleaning conducted?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Cleaned at Each Station 41.8% 246 Cleaned at a Central FD On-Site Location 37.2% 219 Cleaning Outsourced to Third Party 20.9% 123 answered question 588 skipped question 140

Figure 23: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 12

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Fire Service FINAL survey

If outsourced to Third Party, is the Third Party a Verified ISP?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 47.2% 58 No 9.8% 12 Don't Know 41.5% 51 Not Applicable 1.6% 2 answered question 123 skipped question 0

Figure 24: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 13

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Fire Service FINAL survey

For Fire Departments that directly handle their own PPE cleaning, what are the qualifications of the staff? Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Trained by Manufacturer 15.3% 71 Trained by ISP 9.9% 46 Verified by Third Party 4.1% 19 Not Trained 65.6% 305 Not Applicable 5.2% 24 answered question 465 skipped question 0

Figure 25: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 14

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Fire Service FINAL survey

What happens to the PPE when it is "retired"? (check all that apply)

Used in Non- Destroyed or Used in Live Donated to Response Answer Options Live Fire Resold Don't Know Discarded Fire Training Others Count Training Coats 181 171 24 155 12 134 587 Pants 181 170 23 153 12 133 587 Hoods 279 113 14 97 7 131 581 Helmets 194 145 18 135 10 156 583 Gloves 279 117 15 96 8 126 581 Boots 231 136 20 119 8 137 578 answered question 588 skipped question 140

Figure 26: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 15

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Fire Service FINAL survey

How frequently is your PPE being "retired"?

Response Answer Options 1 - 3 Years 3 - 5 years 5 - 7 Years 7 - 10 years 10+ Years Count Coats 7 37 84 238 222 588 Pants 7 37 86 237 220 587 Hoods 59 76 84 170 191 580 Helmets 5 28 67 202 278 580 Gloves 86 83 81 150 180 580 Boots 16 73 104 169 220 582 answered question 588 skipped question 140

Figure 27: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 16

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Fire Service FINAL survey

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? Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 44.9% 264 No 55.1% 324 answered question 588 skipped question 140

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.

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Fire Service FINAL survey

For firefighters, when NOT on duty where is your PPE stored? (check all that apply) Dedicated Fire Personal Response Answer Options Fire Station PPE Storage Home Other Apparatus Vehicle Count Room Coats 435 113 10 101 21 3 588 Pants 434 114 10 101 22 3 588 Hoods 435 112 10 101 21 3 587 Helmets 433 113 10 101 22 3 587 Gloves 435 112 10 101 21 3 587 Boots 428 114 10 101 23 3 584 answered question 588 skipped question 140

Figure 29: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 18

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Fire Service FINAL survey

Do you believe the area where your protective gear is stored is well ventilated? Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 71.9% 423 No 26.2% 154 Don't Know 1.9% 11 answered question 588 skipped question 140

Figure 30: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 19

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Fire Service FINAL survey

Do you believe that your protective gear is exposed to sunlight where it is stored? Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 20.7% 122 No 79.1% 465 Don't Know 0.2% 1 answered question 588 skipped question 140

Figure 31: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 20

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Fire Service FINAL survey

Has your gear ever been contaminated with chemicals or hazardous substances that has required its removal from service? Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 26.2% 154 No 69.6% 409 Don't Know 4.3% 25 answered question 588 skipped question 140

Figure 32: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 21

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Fire Service FINAL survey

Do you believe your gear is adequately cleaned?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 68.7% 404 No 27.6% 162 Don't Know 3.7% 22 answered question 588 skipped question 140

Figure 33: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 22

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Fire Service FINAL survey

Are you concerned about contamination remaining in your clothing?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 47.6% 280 No 49.5% 291 Don't Know 2.9% 17 answered question 588 skipped question 140

Figure 34: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 23

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Fire Service FINAL survey

How many live fires (when PPE is exposed to fire) does YOUR FIRE DEPARTMENT respond to in a given year (12 month period)? Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Less Than 3 5.1% 30 3 - 5 11.2% 66 5 - 7 11.6% 68 7 - 10 15.3% 90 10+ 56.8% 334 answered question 588 skipped question 140

Figure 35: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 24

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Fire Service FINAL survey

How many live fires (when PPE is exposed to fire) do YOU PERSONALLY respond to in a given year (12 month period)? Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Less Than 3 11.4% 67 3 - 5 25.2% 148 5 - 7 20.7% 122 7 - 10 15.3% 90 10+ 27.4% 161 answered question 588 skipped question 140

Figure 36: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 25

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Fire Service FINAL survey

What is the population of the jurisdiction protected by your Fire Department?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count 1,000,000 or more 6.0% 35 999,999 - 500,000 4.8% 28 499,999 - 250,000 6.6% 39 249,999 - 100,000 9.5% 56 99,999 - 50,000 13.3% 78 49,999 - 25,000 19.9% 117 24,999 - 10,000 20.7% 122 9,999 or less 19.2% 113 answered question 588 skipped question 140

Figure 37: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 26

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Fire Service FINAL survey

What is the total number of operation personnel in your Fire Department?

Response Answer Options 400+ 399-200 199-100 99-50 49-10 9 or fewer Count Full-time (Career) Uniform 77 24 60 74 127 100 462 Part-time (Call or Volunteer) 7 10 27 59 230 65 398 answered question 588 skipped question 140

Figure 38: Survey Results, Fire Service, Line Members Question 27

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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.

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4.1.2 Staff Fire Service Member Survey Results

Fire Service FINAL survey

Does your Fire Department have any Policies/SOPs/SOGs for PPE care and maintenance? Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 87.3% 179 No 12.7% 26 answered question 205 skipped question 83

Figure 39: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 31

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Fire Service FINAL survey

Are your Policies/SOPs/SOGs based on NFPA 1851?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 72.2% 148 No 20.5% 42 Don't Know 7.3% 15 answered question 205 skipped question 83

Figure 40: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 32

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Fire Service FINAL survey

Is your compliance with these Policies/SOPs/SOGs mandatory?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 74.6% 153 No 23.9% 49 Don't Know 1.5% 3 answered question 205 skipped question 83

Figure 41: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 33

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Fire Service FINAL survey

In the following table, who handles the STRUCTURAL firefighting PPE INSPECTION within your Fire Department? Verified ISP Person in FD Person in FD End User (Independent Response Answer Options Manufacturer trained by trained by an (e.g., Service Count Manufacturer ISP Firefighter) Provider) Coats 3 52 58 41 103 205 Pants 3 51 57 40 101 203 Hoods 1 20 54 46 118 202 Helmets 1 19 57 47 117 203 Gloves 1 21 53 46 119 203 Boots 1 19 56 44 121 203 answered question 205 skipped question 83

Figure 42: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 34

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Fire Service FINAL survey

How often do you or your organization INSPECT its structural fire fighting gear (on average)?

After Each 3 to 5 Times 2 Times per 1 Time per Response Answer Options Fire or When Never Other per Year Year Year Count Dirty Coats 63 21 52 51 2 16 205 Pants 62 21 52 50 2 16 203 Hoods 67 22 47 48 3 16 203 Helmets 65 20 45 52 3 17 202 Gloves 67 21 48 47 3 15 201 Boots 63 20 47 51 3 17 201 answered question 205 skipped question 83

Figure 43: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 35

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Fire Service FINAL survey

In the following table, who handles the STRUCTURAL firefighting PPE CLEANING within your Fire Department? Verified ISP Person in FD Person in FD End User (Independent Response Answer Options Manufacturer trained by trained by an (e.g., Service Count Manufacturer ISP Firefighter) Provider) Coats 2 55 23 20 125 205 Pants 2 54 22 20 124 203 Hoods 0 24 22 20 145 203 Helmets 0 20 19 16 152 200 Gloves 0 26 22 16 144 201 Boots 0 22 20 15 152 202 answered question 205 skipped question 83

Figure 44: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 36

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Fire Service FINAL survey

How often do you or your organization CLEAN its structural fire fighting gear (on average)?

After Each 3 to 5 Times 2 Times per 1 Time per Response Answer Options Fire or When Never Other per Year Year Year Count Dirty Coats 103 18 34 33 4 13 205 Pants 103 18 33 33 4 13 204 Hoods 108 19 24 28 7 17 203 Helmets 105 16 24 29 8 21 203 Gloves 106 17 23 29 9 19 203 Boots 106 16 20 28 12 20 202 answered question 205 skipped question 83

Figure 45: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 37

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Fire Service FINAL survey

In the following table, who handles the STRUCTURAL firefighting PPE REPAIRING within your Fire Department?

Verified ISP Person in FD Person in FD End User (Independent Response Answer Options Manufacturer trained by trained by an (e.g., Service Count Manufacturer ISP Firefighter) Provider) Coats 36 142 18 6 17 205 Pants 36 141 18 6 17 204 Hoods 31 92 19 8 29 169 Helmets 36 85 27 11 36 184 Gloves 32 89 19 8 30 169 Boots 41 88 18 10 30 177 answered question 205 skipped question 83

Figure 46: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 38

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Fire Service FINAL survey

Where is your PPE cleaning conducted?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Cleaned at Each Station 35.6% 73 Cleaned at a Central FD On-Site Location 42.0% 86 Cleaning Outsourced to Third Party 22.4% 46 answered question 205 skipped question 83

Figure 47: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 39

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Fire Service FINAL survey

If outsourced to Third Party, is the Third Party a Verified ISP?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 80.4% 37 No 4.3% 2 Don't Know 13.0% 6 Not Applicable 2.2% 1 answered question 46 skipped question 0

Figure 48: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 40

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Fire Service FINAL survey

For Fire Departments that directly handle their own PPE cleaning, what are the qualifications of the staff? Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Trained by Manufacturer 22.0% 35 Trained by ISP 18.9% 30 Verified by Third Party 8.2% 13 Not Trained 48.4% 77 Not Applicable 2.5% 4 answered question 159 skipped question 0

Figure 49: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 41

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Fire Service FINAL survey

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) Response Response Answer Options Percent Count PH Levels in Concentrate 26.4% 42 PH Levels in Dilution while Cleaning 21.4% 34 Flash Point of Chemical 11.9% 19 Specific Cleaning Efficacy Info from Vendor 64.2% 102 Active Ingredients per Chemical MSDS 19.5% 31 Don't Know 23.3% 37 answered question 159 skipped question 0

Figure 50: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 42

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Fire Service FINAL survey

What happens to the PPE when it is "retired"? (check all that apply)

Used in Non- Destroyed or Used in Live Donated to Don't Response Answer Options Live Fire Resold Discarded Fire Training Others Know Count Training Coats 94 56 6 77 4 4 205 Pants 94 56 6 77 4 4 205 Hoods 133 31 4 45 1 6 203 Helmets 108 46 6 60 4 5 202 Gloves 136 31 3 43 1 7 203 Boots 121 40 4 55 1 5 203 answered question 205 skipped question 83

Figure 51: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 43

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Fire Service FINAL survey

How frequently is your PPE being "retired"?

Response Answer Options 1 - 3 Years 3 - 5 years 5 - 7 Years 7 - 10 years 10+ Years Count Coats 4 9 38 98 56 205 Pants 4 9 37 98 56 204 Hoods 33 38 28 60 44 203 Helmets 5 7 19 87 85 203 Gloves 50 30 30 49 42 201 Boots 11 35 42 67 48 203 answered question 205 skipped question 83

Figure 52: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 44

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Fire Service FINAL survey

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? Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 51.7% 106 No 48.3% 99 answered question 205 skipped question 83

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.

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Fire Service FINAL survey

For firefighters, when NOT on duty where is your PPE stored? (check all that apply)

Dedicated Fire Personal Response Answer Options Fire Station PPE Storage Home Other Apparatus Vehicle Count Room Coats 139 67 4 29 9 4 205 Pants 139 67 4 29 9 4 205 Hoods 139 66 5 29 9 4 204 Helmets 139 67 5 29 9 4 205 Gloves 137 67 5 30 9 4 205 Boots 137 66 5 30 9 4 203 answered question 205 skipped question 83

Figure 54: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 46

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Fire Service FINAL survey

Do you believe the area where your protective gear is stored is well ventilated? Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 76.6% 157 No 19.0% 39 Don't Know 4.4% 9 answered question 205 skipped question 83

Figure 55: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 47

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Fire Service FINAL survey

Do you believe that your protective gear is exposed to sunlight where it is stored? Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 21.0% 43 No 77.1% 158 Don't Know 2.0% 4 answered question 205 skipped question 83

Figure 56: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 48

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Fire Service FINAL survey

For administrators, what is the AVERAGE shelf time for the PPE inventory? (If not Administrator, please select N/A for each row choice) Response Answer Options 0-2 Months 2-6 Months 6-12 Months 1-2 Years 2-5 Years 5+ Years N/A Count Coats 41 16 28 38 22 30 30 205 Pants 41 16 27 38 22 30 30 204 Hoods 16 21 49 48 23 25 23 205 Helmets 26 12 42 40 30 30 24 204 Gloves 17 20 52 49 22 21 22 203 Boots 34 13 32 41 29 23 33 205 answered question 205 skipped question 83

Figure 57: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 49

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Fire Service FINAL survey

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) Response Answer Options 0-2 Months 2-6 Months 6-12 Months 1-2 Years 2-5 Years 5+ Years N/A Count Coats 24 9 15 23 42 61 30 204 Pants 24 9 15 23 42 61 30 204 Hoods 11 6 23 40 48 53 24 205 Helmets 18 7 14 31 39 68 26 203 Gloves 12 5 28 38 44 54 23 204 Boots 20 8 11 34 38 59 33 203 answered question 205 skipped question 83

Figure 58: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 50

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Fire Service FINAL survey

How many live fires (when PPE is exposed to fire) does YOUR FIRE DEPARTMENT respond to in a given year (12 month period)? Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Less Than 3 4.4% 9 3 - 5 7.8% 16 5 - 7 10.2% 21 7 - 10 12.2% 25 10+ 65.4% 134 answered question 205 skipped question 83

Figure 59: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 51

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Fire Service FINAL survey

How many live fires (when PPE is exposed to fire) do YOU PERSONALLY respond to in a given year (12 month period)? Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Less Than 3 34.1% 70 3 - 5 14.1% 29 5 - 7 12.7% 26 7 - 10 11.2% 23 10+ 27.8% 57 answered question 205 skipped question 83

Figure 60: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 52

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Fire Service FINAL survey

What is the population of the jurisdiction protected by your Fire Department?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count 1,000,000 or more 6.3% 13 999,999 - 500,000 7.3% 15 499,999 - 250,000 9.8% 20 249,999 - 100,000 13.7% 28 99,999 - 50,000 14.6% 30 49,999 - 25,000 18.0% 37 24,999 - 10,000 17.6% 36 9,999 or less 12.7% 26 answered question 205 skipped question 83

Figure 61: Survey Results, Fire Service, Staff Members Question 53

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Fire Service FINAL survey

What is the total number of operation personnel in your Fire Department?

Response Answer Options 400+ 399-200 199-100 99-50 49-10 9 or fewer Count Full-time (Career) Uniform 44 14 31 32 43 27 191 Part-time (Call or Volunteer) 5 5 9 16 47 38 120 answered question 205 skipped question 83

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.

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4.1.3 Both Fire Service Members Survey Results

Fire Service FINAL survey

Does your Fire Department have any Policies/SOPs/SOGs for PPE care and maintenance? Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 77.5% 275 No 22.5% 80 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 63: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 58

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Fire Service FINAL survey

Are your Policies/SOPs/SOGs based on NFPA 1851?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 58.0% 206 No 26.2% 93 Don't Know 15.8% 56 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 64: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 59

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Fire Service FINAL survey

Is your compliance with these Policies/SOPs/SOGs mandatory?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 57.7% 205 No 36.3% 129 Don't Know 5.9% 21 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 65: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 60

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Fire Service FINAL survey

What types of firefighting gear do you have in your possession and/or use?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Structural PPE 88.7% 315 Proximity PPE 0.3% 1 Both 10.1% 36 Other 0.8% 3 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 66: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 61

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Fire Service FINAL survey

As a firefighter, how many sets of STRUCTURAL gear do you have assigned to you (i.e. your responsibility)? More Than Response Answer Options One Two Two Count Coats 215 131 8 354 Pants 213 130 8 351 Hoods 203 121 25 349 Helmets 271 68 11 350 Gloves 167 155 29 351 Boots 249 92 8 349 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 67: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 62

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Fire Service FINAL survey

In the following table, who handles the STRUCTURAL firefighting PPE INSPECTION within your Fire Department? Verified ISP Person in FD Person in FD End User (Independent Response Answer Options Manufacturer trained by trained by an (e.g., Service Count Manufacturer ISP Firefighter) Provider) Coats 6 74 66 63 226 355 Pants 6 74 65 63 224 353 Hoods 6 33 63 64 246 352 Helmets 6 30 66 67 242 353 Gloves 6 30 64 63 247 353 Boots 6 28 64 62 244 350 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 68: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 63

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Fire Service FINAL survey

How often do you or your organization INSPECT its structural fire fighting gear (on average)?

After Each 3 to 5 Times 2 Times per 1 Time per Response Answer Options Fire or When Never Other per Year Year Year Count Dirty Coats 87 41 70 123 16 18 355 Pants 86 41 69 123 16 18 353 Hoods 93 38 64 118 20 19 352 Helmets 87 42 63 124 20 17 353 Gloves 91 41 63 119 19 19 352 Boots 86 40 65 121 22 18 352 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 69: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 64

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Fire Service FINAL survey

In the following table, who handles the STRUCTURAL firefighting PPE CLEANING within your Fire Department? Verified ISP Person in FD Person in FD End User (Independent Response Answer Options Manufacturer trained by trained by an (e.g., Service Count Manufacturer ISP Firefighter) Provider) Coats 4 81 39 27 237 355 Pants 4 81 38 27 236 354 Hoods 4 44 33 21 270 349 Helmets 5 31 28 20 287 351 Gloves 4 37 33 21 280 351 Boots 3 32 29 21 284 348 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 70: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 65

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Fire Service FINAL survey

How often do you or your organization CLEAN its structural fire fighting gear (on average)?

After Each 3 to 5 Times 2 Times per 1 Time per Response Answer Options Fire or When Never Other per Year Year Year Count Dirty Coats 182 34 56 51 9 23 355 Pants 180 34 56 51 9 23 353 Hoods 193 35 46 38 14 23 349 Helmets 170 24 47 40 36 29 346 Gloves 184 30 44 37 32 23 350 Boots 180 24 42 36 34 30 346 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 71: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 66

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Fire Service FINAL survey

In the following table, who handles the STRUCTURAL firefighting PPE REPAIRING within your Fire Department?

Verified ISP Person in FD Person in FD End User (Independent Response Answer Options Manufacturer trained by trained by an (e.g., Service Count Manufacturer ISP Firefighter) Provider) Coats 70 229 16 12 41 355 Pants 70 228 15 12 40 354 Hoods 52 137 13 17 82 293 Helmets 60 127 34 31 90 325 Gloves 57 126 14 15 86 291 Boots 73 135 14 17 75 304 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 72: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 67

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Fire Service FINAL survey

Where is your PPE cleaning conducted?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Cleaned at Each Station 37.7% 134 Cleaned at a Central FD On-Site Location 39.2% 139 Cleaning Outsourced to Third Party 23.1% 82 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 73: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 68

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Fire Service FINAL survey

If outsourced to Third Party, is the Third Party a Verified ISP?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 68.3% 56 No 6.1% 5 Don't Know 25.6% 21 Not Applicable 0.0% 0 answered question 82 skipped question 0

Figure 74: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 69

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Fire Service FINAL survey

For Fire Departments that directly handle their own PPE cleaning, what are the qualifications of the staff? Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Trained by Manufacturer 21.6% 59 Trained by ISP 17.2% 47 Verified by Third Party 4.0% 11 Not Trained 51.3% 140 Not Applicable 5.9% 16 answered question 273 skipped question 0

Figure 75: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 70

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Fire Service FINAL survey

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) Response Response Answer Options Percent Count PH Levels in Concentrate 17.6% 48 PH Levels in Dilution while Cleaning 15.4% 42 Flash Point of Chemical 9.2% 25 Specific Cleaning Efficacy Info from Vendor 48.0% 131 Active Ingredients per Chemical MSDS 12.8% 35 Don't Know 43.2% 118 answered question 273 skipped question 0

Figure 76: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 71

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Fire Service FINAL survey

What happens to the PPE when it is "retired"? (check all that apply)

Used in Non- Destroyed or Used in Live Donated to Response Answer Options Live Fire Resold Don't Know Discarded Fire Training Others Count Training Coats 169 113 11 101 8 19 355 Pants 169 113 11 100 8 19 355 Hoods 241 57 5 55 5 23 355 Helmets 183 92 8 87 8 23 353 Gloves 240 61 5 57 4 22 354 Boots 205 80 7 83 6 21 354 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 77: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 72

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Fire Service FINAL survey

How frequently is your PPE being "retired"?

Response Answer Options 1 - 3 Years 3 - 5 years 5 - 7 Years 7 - 10 years 10+ Years Count Coats 3 8 39 146 159 355 Pants 3 8 39 146 159 355 Hoods 47 48 46 100 111 352 Helmets 3 8 25 127 188 351 Gloves 65 67 29 88 102 351 Boots 12 43 51 110 135 351 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 78: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 73

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Fire Service FINAL survey

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? Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 63.4% 225 No 36.6% 130 answered question 355 skipped question 102

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.

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Fire Service FINAL survey

For firefighters, when NOT on duty where is your PPE stored? (check all that apply)

Dedicated Fire Personal Response Answer Options Fire Station PPE Storage Home Other Apparatus Vehicle Count Room Coats 248 82 13 98 14 2 355 Pants 247 82 12 98 15 2 354 Hoods 248 82 13 97 13 2 355 Helmets 248 82 13 98 13 2 355 Gloves 247 81 14 97 15 2 353 Boots 245 81 12 98 15 2 351 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 80: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 75

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Fire Service FINAL survey

Do you believe the area where your protective gear is stored is well ventilated? Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 75.8% 269 No 21.4% 76 Don't Know 2.8% 10 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 81: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 76

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Fire Service FINAL survey

Do you believe that your protective gear is exposed to sunlight where it is stored? Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 20.6% 73 No 78.0% 277 Don't Know 1.4% 5 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 82: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 77

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Fire Service FINAL survey

For administrators, what is the AVERAGE shelf time for the PPE inventory? (If not Administrator, please select N/A for each row choice) Response Answer Options 0-2 Months 2-6 Months 6-12 Months 1-2 Years 2-5 Years 5+ Years N/A Count Coats 63 20 32 43 48 55 93 354 Pants 63 20 32 43 48 55 93 354 Hoods 28 34 61 66 38 42 86 355 Helmets 43 24 42 47 47 63 88 354 Gloves 29 31 64 64 42 38 86 354 Boots 52 24 37 51 44 55 88 351 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 83: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 78

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Fire Service FINAL survey

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) Response Answer Options 0-2 Months 2-6 Months 6-12 Months 1-2 Years 2-5 Years 5+ Years N/A Count Coats 33 14 19 26 48 124 90 354 Pants 33 14 19 26 48 123 90 353 Hoods 14 11 31 60 53 101 85 355 Helmets 21 6 29 37 49 125 87 354 Gloves 12 14 33 52 57 101 85 354 Boots 26 11 22 38 47 119 87 350 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 84: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 79

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Fire Service FINAL survey

Has your gear ever been contaminated with chemicals or hazardous substances that has required its removal from service? Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 54.9% 195 No 40.6% 144 Don't Know 4.5% 16 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 85: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 80

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Fire Service FINAL survey

Do you believe your gear is adequately cleaned?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 78.0% 277 No 15.8% 56 Don't Know 6.2% 22 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 86: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 81

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Fire Service FINAL survey

Are you concerned about contamination remaining in your clothing?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Yes 49.0% 174 No 47.9% 170 Don't Know 3.1% 11 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 87: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 82

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Fire Service FINAL survey

How many live fires (when PPE is exposed to fire) does YOUR FIRE DEPARTMENT respond to in a given year (12 month period)? Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Less Than 3 7.0% 25 3 - 5 13.0% 46 5 - 7 13.0% 46 7 - 10 18.0% 64 10+ 49.0% 174 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 88: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 83

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Fire Service FINAL survey

How many live fires (when PPE is exposed to fire) do YOU PERSONALLY respond to in a given year (12 month period)? Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Less Than 3 15.8% 56 3 - 5 20.6% 73 5 - 7 16.6% 59 7 - 10 16.1% 57 10+ 31.0% 110 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 89: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 84

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Fire Service FINAL survey

What is the population of the jurisdiction protected by your Fire Department?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count 1,000,000 or more 5.1% 18 999,999 - 500,000 4.2% 15 499,999 - 250,000 2.3% 8 249,999 - 100,000 7.6% 27 99,999 - 50,000 9.3% 33 49,999 - 25,000 11.8% 42 24,999 - 10,000 27.6% 98 9,999 or less 32.1% 114 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 90: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 85

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Fire Service FINAL survey

What is the total number of operation personnel in your Fire Department?

Response Answer Options 400+ 399-200 199-100 99-50 49-10 9 or fewer Count Full-time (Career) Uniform 28 9 22 28 87 73 247 Part-time (Call or Volunteer) 7 6 14 34 172 43 276 answered question 355 skipped question 102

Figure 91: Survey Results, Fire Service, Both Members Question 86

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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.

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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.

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ISP FINAL Survey

Are your Policies/SOPs/SOGs based on NFPA 1851?

Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt Yes, 2008 Ed. 29.4% 5 Yes, 2014 Ed. 70.6% 12 No 0.0% 0 Don't Know 0.0% 0 answered question 17 skipped question 0

Figure 92: Survey Results, ISP Question 1

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ISP FINAL Survey

For Fire Department clients, what services do you provide and for how many customers?

Answer Options No ne Less Than 10 10 to 25 More Than 25 Response Count

PPE Inspection 0 1 2 14 17 PPE Cleaning 2 1 1 13 17 PPE Repair 0 0 2 15 17 PPE Removal/Destruction 3 1 4 8 16 Other 1 0 0 6 7 If "Other", please specify: 4 answered question 17 skipped question 0

Figure 93: Survey Results, ISP Question 2

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ISP FINAL Survey

For specific Fire Service PPE, what services do you provide? (check all that apply)

Re sp o nse Answer Options Insp e ct Cle a n Re p a ir Othe r Co unt Coats 17 15 17 5 17 Pants 17 15 17 5 17 Hoods 15 14 6 1 16 Helmets 15 13 10 3 16 Gloves 15 14 2 1 16 Boots 14 13 6 1 15 answered question 17 skipped question 0

Figure 94: Survey Results, ISP Question 3

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ISP FINAL Survey

For specific Fire Service PPE, how often do you RECOMMEND ADVANCED CLEANING to your clients? (check all that apply) Whe ne ve r Eve ry 6 Re sp o nse Answer Options Annua lly 2 Ye a rs 2+ Ye a rs Dirty Mo nths Co unt Coats 5 5 7 0 0 17 Pants 5 5 7 0 0 17 Hoods 5 4 6 0 0 15 Helmets 5 2 8 0 0 15 Gloves 5 5 6 0 0 16 Boots 5 2 9 0 0 16 answered question 17 skipped question 0

Figure 95: Survey Results, ISP Question 4

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ISP FINAL Survey

How often do organizations you service clean their structural fire fighting gear (on average)?

After Each 3 to 5 Times 2 Times per 1 Time per Re sp o nse Answer Options Fire or When Ne ve r Othe r p e r Ye a r Ye a r Ye a r Co unt Dirty Coats 2 3 2 8 0 2 17 Pants 2 3 2 8 0 2 17 Hoods 2 2 3 7 1 2 17 Helmets 1 0 2 7 4 2 16 Gloves 1 1 3 6 3 2 16 Boots 1 0 2 7 4 2 16 answered question 17 skipped question 0

Figure 96: Survey Results, ISP Question 5

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ISP FINAL Survey

What percent of your Fire Department clients do you believe are compliant with NFPA 1851? Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt 0 -15% 23.5% 4 15 - 30% 35.3% 6 30 - 50% 5.9% 1 50 - 70% 23.5% 4 70 - 100% 11.8% 2 answered question 17 skipped question 0

Figure 97: Survey Results, ISP Question 6

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ISP FINAL Survey

What is the primary reason your Fire Department clients are not compliant with NFPA 1851? Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt Cost of compliance 29.4% 5 Limited Budget 29.4% 5 Not a priority 29.4% 5 Not familiar with NFPA 1851 11.8% 2 Not trained 0.0% 0 answered question 17 skipped question 0

Figure 98: Survey Results, ISP Question 7

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ISP FINAL Survey

When choosing cleaning chemicals for your cleaning process, which of the following does your organization take into consideration? (select all that a p p ly) Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt PH Levels in Concentrate 88.2% 15 PH Levels in Dilution while Cleaning 82.4% 14 Flash Point of Chemical 29.4% 5 Specific Cleaning Efficacy Info from Vendor 64.7% 11 Active Ingredients per Chemical MSDS 58.8% 10 None of These 5.9% 1 answered question 17 skipped question 0

Figure 99: Survey Results, ISP Question 8

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ISP FINAL Survey

How frequently are you requested to perform hydrostatic testing of moisture barriers in garments (coats/pants) that are more than 3 years o ld ? Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt 0 - 15% of all cleaning/inspections 29.4% 5 Between 15 - 30% of all cleanings and inspections 11.8% 2 Between 30 - 50% of all cleanings and inspections 11.8% 2 Between 50 - 70% of all cleanings and inspections 11.8% 2 70 - 100% of all cleanings and inspections 35.3% 6 answered question 17 skipped question 0

Figure 100: Survey Results, ISP Question 9

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ISP FINAL Survey

When you conduct hydrostatic testing, how often do you encounter failing results on the moisture barrier?

Between 15 - Between 30 - Between 50 - 0 -15% of all 70 - 100% of 30% of all 50% of all 70% of all Re sp o nse Answer Options g a rme nts all garments g a rme nts g a rme nts g a rme nts Co unt te ste d te ste d te ste d te ste d te ste d

Garments 1 - 3 years old 11 5 0 1 0 17 Garments 3+ years old 3 7 1 4 1 16 answered question 17 skipped question 0

Figure 101: Survey Results, ISP Question 10

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ISP FINAL Survey

Do you offer training for end users on PPE care and maintenance that meets the requirement of NFPA 1851? Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt Yes 82.4% 14 No 17.6% 3 answered question 17 skipped question 0

Figure 102: Survey Results, ISP Question 11

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ISP FINAL Survey

How is the training delivered to end users? (check all that apply)

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Online 21.4% 3 CD or DVD 14.3% 2 In-Person (class) 100.0% 14 Other 14.3% 2 answered question 14 skipped question 0

Figure 103: Survey Results, ISP Question 12

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ISP FINAL Survey

Does your organization conduct specialized cleaning (i.e., decontamination of clothing that is contaminated with either chemicals or other hazardous substances)? Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt Yes 70.6% 12 No 29.4% 5 answered question 17 skipped question 0

Figure 104: Survey Results, ISP Question 13

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ISP FINAL Survey

What types of contaminants does your organziation generally provide cleaning services for? (check all that apply) Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt Heavy Fire Ground Soiling 100.0% 17 Oils, Greases, and Similar Petrochemical Products 82.4% 14 Blood and Bodily Fluids 64.7% 11 Specific Industrial Chemicals 47.1% 8 Asbestos or Other Hazardous Particulates 23.5% 4 answered question 17 skipped question 0

Figure 105: Survey Results, ISP Question 14

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ISP FINAL Survey

Does your organization refuse to clean or decontaminate clothing with certain specific contaminants? Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt Yes 88.2% 15 No 11.8% 2 answered question 17 skipped question 0

Figure 106: Survey Results, ISP Question 15

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ISP FINAL Survey

What information does your organization rely on for determining how to remove specific contaminants? (check all that apply) Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt Information Provided by the Fire Department 52.9% 9 Information Provided on the Identified Contaminant 70.6% 12 Recommendations from Chemical Companies 58.8% 10 Recommendations from Manufacturers or Material 82.4% 14 Recommendations from Cleaning Agent Vendors 64.7% 11 Expertise Provided by Outside Organizations 76.5% 13 answered question 17 skipped question 0

Figure 107: Survey Results, ISP Question 16

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ISP FINAL Survey

Has your organization made recommendations that the gear that you have either cleaned or inspected should be retired and taken out of service? Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt Yes 100.0% 17 No 0.0% 0 answered question 17 skipped question 0

Figure 108: Survey Results, ISP Question 17

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ISP FINAL Survey

If answered "Yes" to previous Question, what is the leading cause of making a recommendation for retiring gear or taking it out of service? Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt The clothing cannot be adequately cleaned 0.0% 0 There are specific contaminants on the clothing that cannot be removed 11.8% 2 The clothing requires extensive repairs and is under an economical to make those repairs 41.2% 7 The clothing per item has a manufacture date that is more than 10 years old 23.5% 4 Other (please specify) 23.5% 4 answered question 17 skipped question 0

Figure 109: Survey Results, ISP Question 18

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ISP FINAL Survey

If answered "Yes" to Question 16, have departments providing the gear disagreed with your recommendations? Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt Yes 17.6% 3 No 82.4% 14 answered question 17 skipped question 0

Figure 110: Survey Results, ISP Question 19

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ISP FINAL Survey

Which of the following areas do you think represent the 3 highest priorities for future revisions to NFPA 1851? (check top 3 that apply) Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt Development of associated educational material explaining the standard 58.8% 10 Provision of greater guidance for how structural firefighting protective clothing should be selected 0.0% 0 Addition of more definitive specifications for cleaning processes and detergents 58.8% 10 Establishment of specific criteria for determining cleaning effectiveness 17.6% 3 Inclusion of criteria for specialized cleaning, including decontamination 64.7% 11 Changes to allow more leeway in the performance of hydrostatic testing and interpretation of results 17.6% 3 Development of more extensive criteria to determine when gear should be retired 23.5% 4 Preparation of criteria for verification of ISP inspection and cleaning practices 41.2% 7 Other (please specify) 17.6% 3 answered question 17 skipped question 0

Figure 111: Survey Results, ISP Question 20

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ISP FINAL Survey

What is the geographic extent of your customer base?

Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt Local 0.0% 0 Regional/Statewide 29.4% 5 Multi-State 47.1% 8 National 11.8% 2 International 11.8% 2 answered question 17 skipped question 0

Figure 112: Survey Results, ISP Question 21

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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.

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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.

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Manufacturers FINAL Survey

If your organization provides NFPA 1851 services, are your Policies/SOPs/SOGs based on NFPA 1851? Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt Yes, 2008 Ed. 14.3% 1 Yes, 2014 Ed. 28.6% 2 No 14.3% 1 Don't Know 0.0% 0 N/A 42.9% 3 answered question 7 skipped question 0

Figure 113: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 1

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Manufacturers FINAL Survey

For Fire Department clients, what services do you provide and for how many customers? (Check all that apply) Re sp o nse Answer Options No ne Less Than 10 10 to 25 More Than 25 Co unt PPE Inspection 2 1 0 2 5 PPE Cleaning 4 0 0 1 5 PPE Repair 2 2 0 1 5 PPE Removal/Destruction 3 0 0 1 4 PPE Rental/Lease 3 0 0 1 4 PPE Sales 0 0 0 7 7 Other 0 0 0 1 1 If "Other", please specify: 1 answered question 7 skipped question 0

Figure 114: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 2

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Manufacturers FINAL Survey

For specific Fire Service PPE, what services do you provide? (check all that apply)

Re nt o r Re sp o nse Answer Options Insp e ct Cle a n Re p a ir Se ll Othe r No ne Le a se Co unt Coats 2 1 2 1 3 0 1 5 Pants 2 1 2 1 3 0 1 5 Hoods 0 0 0 0 2 1 3 5 Helmets 0 0 0 0 3 0 2 5 Gloves 0 0 0 0 2 0 2 4 Boots 1 1 2 0 4 0 0 4 answered question 7 skipped question 0

Figure 115: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 3

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Manufacturers FINAL Survey

For specific Fire Service PPE, how often do you RECOMMEND ADVANCED CLEANING to your clients? (check all that apply)

No t Whe ne ve r Eve ry 6 No Re sp o nse Answer Options Annua lly 2 Ye a rs 2+ Ye a rs Ap p lica b le Dirty Mo nths Recommendation Co unt

Coats 0 2 1 1 0 0 2 5 Pants 0 2 1 1 0 0 2 5 Hoods 2 1 0 0 0 0 2 5 Helmets 1 1 0 1 0 0 3 5 Gloves 1 1 0 1 0 0 2 4 Boots 0 2 0 1 0 0 2 4 answered question 7 skipped question 0

Figure 116: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 4

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Manufacturers FINAL Survey

If you provide cleaning services, how often do organizations you service clean their structural fire fighting gear (on average)?

After Each 3 to 5 Times 2 Times per 1 Time per Re sp o nse Answer Options Fire or When Ne ve r Othe r Do n't Kno w p e r Ye a r Ye a r Ye a r Co unt Dirty Coats 0 1 0 0 0 1 3 5 Pants 0 1 0 0 0 1 3 5 Hoods 0 1 0 0 0 2 3 6 Helmets 0 0 0 0 0 2 3 5 Gloves 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 4 Boots 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 4 answered question 7 skipped question 0

Figure 117: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 5

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Manufacturers FINAL Survey

How does your new PPE product reach the final customer (i.e., the Firefighter)? (check all that apply)

Re sp o nse Answer Options Prima ry Mo d e ra te Limite d No t Use d Co unt Manufacturers Retail 1 1 0 1 3 3rd Party Distributor 6 0 0 0 6 Direct to Fire Department 0 2 0 1 3 Direct to Firefighter 0 0 2 1 3 Other 0 0 0 1 1 answered question 7 skipped question 0

Figure 118: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 6

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Manufacturers FINAL Survey

Do you offer training for end users on PPE care and maintenance that meets the requirement of NFPA 1851? Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt Yes 85.7% 6 No 14.3% 1 answered question 7 skipped question 0

Figure 119: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 7

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Manufacturers FINAL Survey

How is the training delivered to end users? (check all that apply)

Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt Online 60.0% 3 CD or DVD 20.0% 1 In-Person (class) 60.0% 3 Other 20.0% 1 answered question 5 skipped question 2

Figure 120: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 8

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Manufacturers FINAL Survey

What is the AVERAGE shelf time for your new PPE inventory before it reaches the purchaser? (check all that apply)

Re sp o nse Answer Options 0-2 Mo nths 2-6 Mo nths 6-12 Months 1-2 Ye a rs 2-5 Ye a rs 5+ Ye a rs Co unt Coats 1 1 1 0 0 0 3 Pants 1 1 1 0 0 0 3 Hoods 1 0 1 0 0 0 2 Helmets 3 0 0 0 0 0 3 Gloves 0 1 1 0 0 0 2 Boots 0 1 3 0 0 0 4 answered question 6 skipped question 1

Figure 121: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 9

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Manufacturers FINAL Survey

What is the WORST CASE (longest duration) shelf time for your new PPE inventory before it reaches the purchaser? (check all that apply) Re sp o nse Answer Options 0-2 Mo nths 2-6 Mo nths 6-12 Months 1-2 Ye a rs 2-5 Ye a rs 5+ Ye a rs Co unt Coats 1 0 0 2 0 0 3 Pants 1 0 0 2 0 0 3 Hoods 0 0 1 1 0 0 2 Helmets 1 1 1 0 0 0 3 Gloves 0 0 0 2 0 0 2 Boots 0 0 1 1 2 0 4 answered question 6 skipped question 1

Figure 122: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 10

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Manufacturers FINAL Survey

Does your organization handle the retirement and destruction of old PPE?

Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt Yes 16.7% 1 No 83.3% 5 Other 0.0% 0 answered question 6 skipped question 1

Figure 123: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 11

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Manufacturers FINAL Survey

Does your organization recommend specific cleaning agents, cleaning processes, or associated products for the care and maintenance of clothing and equipment (e.g., a particular line of detergents are rinse a id s)? Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt Yes 66.7% 4 No 33.3% 2 answered question 6 skipped question 1

Figure 124: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 12

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Manufacturers FINAL Survey

If answered "Yes" to Question 12, what information do you rely on for making these recommendations? (check all that apply) Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Vendor Provided Information 75.0% 3 In-House Testing 25.0% 1 Independent Testing 0.0% 0 Recommendations from Other Organizations 0.0% 0 Other (please specify) 0.0% 0 answered question 4 skipped question 0

Figure 125: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 13

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Manufacturers FINAL Survey

How do you handle inquiries related to the decontamination of your products involving different contaminants? (check all that apply) Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt No Recommendations Are Provided 0.0% 0 We Provide General Guidelines Only Without Specific Recommendations 83.3% 5 For Some Instances And Contaminants, We Make Specific Recommendations 16.7% 1 We Refer The Inquiry To A Different Organization 66.7% 4 answered question 6 skipped question 1

Figure 126: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 14

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Manufacturers FINAL Survey

Which of the following areas do you think represent the 3 highest priorities for future revisions to NFPA 1851? (check top 3 that apply) Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt Development of associated educational material explaining the standard 33.3% 2 Provision of greater guidance for how structural firefighting protective clothing should be selected 33.3% 2 Addition of more definitive specifications for cleaning processes and detergents 33.3% 2 Establishment of specific criteria for determining cleaning effectiveness 33.3% 2 Inclusion of criteria for specialized cleaning, including decontamination 16.7% 1 Changes to allow more leeway in the performance of hydrostatic testing and interpretation of results 16.7% 1 Development of more extensive criteria to determine when gear should be retired 83.3% 5 Preparation of criteria for verification of ISP inspection and cleaning practices 16.7% 1 Other (please specify) 33.3% 2 answered question 6 skipped question 1

Figure 127: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 15

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Manufacturers FINAL Survey

What is the geographic extent of your customer base?

Re sp o nse Re sp o nse Answer Options Pe rce nt Co unt Local 0.0% 0 Regional/Statewide 0.0% 0 Multi-State 0.0% 0 National 33.3% 2 International 66.7% 4 answered question 6 skipped question 1

Figure 128: Survey Results, Manufacturer Question 16

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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

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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 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.

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ANNEX A: FIRE SERVICE SURVEY ANNOUNCEMENT

Figure 129: Announcement for Fire Service PPE Survey

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ANNEX B: FIRE SERVICE SURVEY QUESTIONS

Figure 130: Fire Service Survey, Page 1

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Figure 131: Fire Service Survey, Page 2

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Figure 132: Fire Service Survey, Page 3

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Figure 133: Fire Service Survey, Page 4

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Figure 134: Fire Service Survey, Page 5

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Figure 135: Fire Service Survey, Page 6

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Figure 136: Fire Service Survey, Page 7

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Figure 137: Fire Service Survey, Page 8

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Figure 138: Fire Service Survey, Page 9

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Figure 139: Fire Service Survey, Page 10

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Figure 140: Fire Service Survey, Page 11

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Figure 141: Fire Service Survey, Page 12

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Figure 142: Fire Service Survey, Page 13

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Figure 143: Fire Service Survey, Page 14

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Figure 144: Fire Service Survey, Page 15

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Figure 145: Fire Service Survey, Page 16

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Figure 146: Fire Service Survey, Page 17

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ANNEX C: INDEPENDENT SERVICE PROVIDER (ISP) SURVEY QUESTIONS

Figure 147: ISP Survey, Page 1

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Figure 148: ISP Survey, Page 2

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Figure 149: ISP Survey, Page 3

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Figure 150: ISP Survey, Page 4

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Figure 151: ISP Survey, Page 5

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ANNEX D: MANUFACTURER SURVEY QUESTIONS

Figure 152: Manufacturer Survey, Page 1

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Figure 153: Manufacturer Survey, Page 2

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Figure 154: Manufacturer Survey, Page 3

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Figure 155: Manufacturer Survey, Page 4

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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

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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.

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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.

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