Introduction
Why is it so important to address PPE sanitization and decontamination? Let’s explore this in our article.
In 2020, a study published by the University of Central Lancashire highlighted the dangers of exposure to toxic products and the combination of corrosive and carcinogenic substances released during fires for firefighters.
The researchers, at 18 barracks, took measurements of the air inside the building and took samples from equipment and clothing.
The results of these surveys clearly showed that UK firefighters are continuously exposed to high levels of toxic contaminants pre- and post-response, as chemicals remain on their clothing, equipment and vehicles.
In 2021, an article in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health compared the levels of PFAS (Perfluoroalkyl Substances) in the blood of 135 New Jersey firefighters to those of the general population; the study’s findings highlighted how the contaminants are present in dangerously high levels in firefighters’ blood.
Corrective actions
The need to implement prevention and awareness plans to protect workers from occupational diseases that can develop into serious illnesses such as cancer is increasingly evident.
To this end, some key points must be followed:
- Fire and rescue service personnel should receive regular and up-to-date training on the adverse health effects of exposure to toxic fire effluents and how these exposures can be reduced, mitigated or eliminated;
- Firefighters must always wear respiratory protective equipment during firefighting, even after fire has been extinguished, to avoid breathing in the gases and fumes emitted;
- Decontamination and sanitization of PPE must take place immediately after each intervention;
- During and after each intervention, the cabins of each vehicle must be decontaminated and provided with constant air exchange;
- Operators must shower within one hour of returning from fires;
- PPE must be cleaned and thoroughly decontaminated after each intervention to avoid the accumulation of toxic contaminants;
- Regular health checks and attendance records for each intervention are highly recommended, as they will be essential for monitoring and managing the long-term health of each worker.
Solutions: PPE decontamination and sanitization products
The need to implement prevention and awareness plans to protect workers from occupational diseases that can develop into serious illnesses such as cancer is increasingly evident.
To this end, some key points must be followed:
- Fire and rescue service personnel should receive regular and up-to-date training on the adverse health effects of exposure to toxic fire effluents and how these exposures can be reduced, mitigated or eliminated;
- Firefighters must always wear respiratory protective equipment during firefighting, even after fire has been extinguished, to avoid breathing in the gases and fumes emitted;
- Decontamination and sanitization of PPE must take place immediately after each intervention;
- During and after each intervention, the cabins of each vehicle must be decontaminated and provided with constant air exchange;
- Operators must shower within one hour of returning from fires;
- PPE must be cleaned and thoroughly decontaminated after each intervention to avoid the accumulation of toxic contaminants;
- Regular health checks and attendance records for each intervention are highly recommended, as they will be essential for monitoring and managing the long-term health of each worker.
A. SAFCO ITALIA recommends the use of the DECON/pak® portable decontamination system
Autonomous and portable system for the dosage and use of the specific liquid agent for the initial gross decontamination of personnel and fire-fighting equipment.
It can inject a variety of PPE decontamination agents, with a mixing ratio of 0.1% to 0.5%.
Easy to use: 1- Add the decontamination agent to the tank; 2- Connect the supply hose; 3- Adjust the desired mixing level using the dial; 4- Wash, scrub, rinse.
B. SAFCO ITALIA recommends installing the CREWPROTECT™ Decontamination System on every vehicle
Air decontamination booth designed for installation on passenger transport vehicles, emergency vehicles, or for private use. It protects operators and their passengers from microdust, particulates, PFAS, and VOCs.
The multilayer cartridge system sanitizes polluted air by filtering 99.95% of particles at 0.3 microns and removing a wide range of volatile pollutants.
CrewProtect can be easily installed on new or older vehicles already in operation: it works with a standard 12V DC/24V DC power supply and is activated when the vehicle is started.
C. SAFCO ITALIA proposes the post-intervention use of the AR120 HAP Drying and Decontamination Cabinet
PPE storage cabinet incorporating drying, sanitizing, disinfecting, and decontamination functions: an innovation that harnesses the power of ozone to sanitize PPE against viruses, bacteria, VOCs, and PFAS, and in particular, enables decontamination from PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons).
The wardrobe is designed for 8 complete outfits, including accessory holders for helmets, masks and other items: it dries and sanitizes in about 45 minutes.