| Editor’s note: The inaugural Fire Service Symposium in March featured some of the most prominent figures from the world of PPE. Check out our special coverage section for extensive highlights from the event. |
By Jamie Thompson
FireRescue1 Editor
|
There are many considerations to make when selecting new PPE. But one of the most important things departments can do at the start of the process is conducting risk assessments, according to Deputy Chief (ret.) Donna Brehm.
Chief Brehm, formerly of the Virginia Beach, Va., Fire Department, outlined a series of measures to follow during a session at the inaugural PPE Symposium in Charlotte, N.C.
The 32-year veteran first stressed the importance of risk assessments, which can help match PPE technology to the community’s service demands.
Chief Brehm said a risk assessment looks at:
- Types of duties performed
- Frequency of use of ensemble items
- Organization experiences
- Incident operations
- Geographic location and climate
- Likelihood of response to CBRN events
Chief Brehm, who has been a member of the NFPA Technical Committee on Structural and Proximity Fire Fighting Protective Clothing and Equipment for more than 20 years, said departments should also look at how their communities are changing.
“New industry coming in can change the demands of the services you provide, and may change the kinds of things you want to look for in protective clothing,” she said.
When it comes to evaluating hazards that should be factored into the considerations, Chief Brehm said departments can use Table A.5.1.1 in NFPA 1851:
- Physical
- Environmental
- Thermal
- Biological
- Chemical
- Electrical
- Radiation
- Person-Position
- Person-Equipment
Chief Brehm went on to tell the session a major current issue is the age of PPE in departments.
“Two-thirds of departments across the country have one element of PPE over 10 years old,” she said.
“The smaller your department, the greater the chance you will have more elements that are 10 years old or over. Larger departments go through stuff much more quickly.”
Chief Brehm said it is important smaller departments are aware of the problems this can create.
“Technology can move on while you’re still holding on to that gear,” she said.
During the session, Chief Brehm also highlighted the importance of NFPA 1851.
A revision to the standard for the selection, care, and maintenance of structural fire fighting protective clothing came into effect nearly two years ago. It made a number of significant revisions aiming to improve the management of firefighter turnout clothing through more rigorous and defined testing requirements.
“One of the most important things you can do for yourself and your organizations if you’re involved in the selection, care and maintenance of PPE is get yourself a copy of NFPA 1851,” Chief Brehm said.
“It’s not overly technical, and is written for fire service members to assist them,” she said.