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New tech, same threat: Why diesel exhaust is still a major health risk inside the fire station

Even with hybrid and electric fire trucks, diesel engines and incomplete filtration still leave cancer-causing exhaust in the air

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MagneGrip

PRESS RELEASE

CINCINNATI — Electric fire trucks may sound like a clean solution, but even the latest models still rely on diesel engines for backup power during extended calls and emergency situations. When minutes matter and stations face 12 to 20 calls a day, many departments are forced to keep engines running without interruption. That means diesel exhaust is still a reality, even in hybrid or electric fleets.

To make matters more confusing, some departments assume that built-in diesel particulate filters (DPFs) eliminate the danger. While DPFs do reduce larger soot particles, they do not capture 100% of harmful emissions, especially ultrafine particles (UFPs) that are invisible to the eye but small enough to reach deep into the lungs and bloodstream. Multiple studies show that under real-world engine conditions, DPFs allow these ultrafine particles and volatile compounds to pass through, keeping cancer-causing toxins in the air. Without source-capture protection at the tailpipe, those fumes still circulate inside the station.

Compounding the challenge, electric fire trucks are expensive to acquire and maintain, putting them out of reach for most small to mid-sized departments. And even when they are in service, the nation’s EV charging infrastructure is far from ready to support critical emergency operations, particularly in rural and suburban areas. When charging is not fast or available, diesel engines fill the gap and bring the same exhaust risk with them.

That’s why source-capture exhaust systems remain essential for firefighter safety. Until battery-powered trucks can operate independently for hours or even days and until filtration systems can eliminate ultrafine toxins at the source, diesel exhaust will continue to pose serious health risks. And without a tailpipe-connected removal system, those fumes linger long after the engine shuts off, silently increasing the risk of long-term cancer, cardiovascular damage, and respiratory illness.

MagneGrip delivers protection you can’t see, but can trust

MagneGrip systems are engineered specifically to remove invisible diesel exhaust threats from the air. Our Source-Capture Exhaust Removal Systems connect directly to the vehicle’s tailpipe, most commonly using the new PRO Nozzle, designed with FLEX-MAGNET™ technology for a secure seal that’s fast and easy to connect. The nozzle’s 90-degree design keeps the hose close to the apparatus, making it safer to move around and ideal for tight bay layouts.

Once attached, the system captures and eliminates 100% of diesel exhaust at the source before it has a chance to spread through the station. Paired with our advanced Air Purification Systems, firehouses gain a dual-layer defense that reduces cancer risk, protects cardiovascular health, and keeps station air clean from engine start to vehicle exit.

Even if your engines are new, your air might not be clean. MagneGrip helps ensure your station isn’t breathing in yesterday’s toxins.

Proven protection, certified solutions

With over 50 years of industry leadership and ISO 9001:2015 certification, MagneGrip remains the only U.S. manufacturer offering both Source-Capture Exhaust Removal and Air Purification Systems. Our systems are NFPA- and OSHA-compliant and trusted by thousands of departments nationwide.

Free grant assistance available

Concerned about cost? MagneGrip offers free grant assistance to help departments access the funding needed for clean air upgrades. Whether you’re preparing for the next AFG cycle or exploring local grant options, our team can guide you from estimate to installation with no pressure and no hidden fees.

To learn more or apply today, visit www.magnegrip.com/free-grant-assistance or call 1-800-875-5440.