Firefighter decontamination refers to the process of removing hazardous contaminants — like soot, smoke particles, and toxic chemicals — from personnel, gear and equipment following a fire or hazardous materials incident. What was once an overlooked or informal practice is now a standard part of fireground operations designed to combat occupational illnesses, especially cancer.
How early culture missed the risks
Historically, there was little awareness of the dangers posed by fire byproducts. Firefighters in the 19th century and much of the 20th century wore soot-covered gear as a badge of honor.
Decontamination was not only uncommon — it was largely discouraged. Dirty helmets and jackets symbolized bravery, not risk.
However, as the materials inside modern buildings changed — from natural wood and cotton to synthetics like PVC, foam and treated fabrics — the resulting smoke became significantly more toxic. Fires now release carcinogenic compounds like benzene, hydrogen cyanide and formaldehyde. Studies eventually revealed these exposures were not just dangerous — they were deadly.
Fire exposure = cancer risk
By the early 2000s, major research — including a landmark study by NIOSH — confirmed what many suspected: firefighters are at significantly higher risk of developing cancer than the general population. Mesothelioma, multiple myeloma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma and bladder and prostate cancers topped the list.
This triggered a sea change in how fire departments viewed decontamination. What was once seen as unnecessary became essential. Organizations like the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) and the Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN) began championing best practices for decon.
Modern decontamination procedures
Today’s best practices include a multi-step decontamination process:
- Gross decontamination at the scene: Firefighters use soap, water and brushes to scrub off contaminants from gear before returning to the truck.
- Bag and tag gear: Contaminated gear is placed in sealed bags to avoid contaminating apparatus interiors and firehouses.
- Change out of gear quickly: Many departments now require a second set of gear and encourage personnel to change before returning to the station.
- Shower within the hour: A key mantra in modern fire service health is “shower within the hour” to wash off toxins that may have been absorbed through the skin.
- Use of decon wipes: Firefighters now carry decontamination wipes to clean exposed skin — especially around the neck, jawline and hands, which are highly absorbent areas.
Departments are also investing in gear extractors (specialized washing machines), clean gear storage and station design modifications like separate airflow systems and red/green zones to reduce cross-contamination.
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Let’s examine the dangers of contamination at fire scenes and the evolving decontamination protocols aimed at reducing long-term health risks for firefighters:
- Even after the flames are out, PPE can off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOCs) — posing inhalation hazards long after leaving the scene. Studies show that the gear can continue to release contaminants for at least 2 hours after exposure.
- Immediate on-scene wet decontamination using soap, water, and scrubbing can reduce harmful surface contaminants by up to 85%, significantly lowering dermal absorption risk.
- Cancer now accounts for over 66% of firefighter line-of-duty deaths (LODDs) — largely due to long-term exposure to carcinogens on-scene and in contaminated gear.
- A simple dry decon step — brushing off loose particulates — before wet decon can help prevent contaminants from spreading to exposed skin or other equipment during washing.
- Contamination doesn’t stop at the scene. Diesel exhaust in apparatus bays is a known carcinogen and can settle on turnout gear, skin, and living quarters if not properly mitigated.
Future trends in firefighter decon
Looking ahead, emerging technologies promise even better protection:
- Ozone-based gear sanitizing chambers are being tested for their ability to destroy pathogens and neutralize volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
- Sensor-equipped turnout gear could help detect exposure levels in real time.
- Decon training is now being incorporated into national firefighter standards and certifications, ensuring new recruits treat it as an essential life-safety practice.
Firefighter decontamination will continue to evolve, driven by science, health data and a growing commitment to the long-term wellness of emergency responders.
