NFPA Bulletin Highlights Risks of Protective Hoods

"Given the increase in occupational cancer incidents in the fire service, we feel it is best to err on the side of caution as we await additional scientific research on PPE and learn more about the absorption of carcinogens near the forehead, jaw, neck, and throat," said Ed Conlin, the NFPA Public Fire Protection division's manager.

  • Feb 03, 2017

A new National Fire Protection Association safety bulletin highlights the dangers firefighters face because of the protective hoods they wear.

"It is well-documented that firefighter Personal Protective Equipment is exposed to a wide range of toxins, pathogens and other hazardous substances," NFPA noted in its announcement of the bulletin. "According to a study by the Centers for Disease Control and the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, firefighters have a greater number of cancer diagnoses and cancer related deaths. Firefighter protective hoods are the most penetrable piece of equipment; they do not stop soot and chemicals from depositing on a firefighter’s neck and head – areas that are extremely vulnerable to dermal exposure."

"NFPA has had the back of firefighters for more than 120 years," said Ed Conlin, the NFPA Public Fire Protection division's manager. "Given the increase in occupational cancer incidents in the fire service, we feel it is best to err on the side of caution as we await additional scientific research on PPE and learn more about the absorption of carcinogens near the forehead, jaw, neck, and throat."

The bulletin recommends that fire departments establish an overall health and safety program and practices for care and maintenance in accordance with NFPA 1851, Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting. The practices are:

  • Wash protective hoods after every fire or emergency service use.
  • Inspect them for damage and continued serviceability after every fire or emergency service use.
  • Don't allow protective hoods to be taken home, to a laundromat, or to a dry cleaner for washing.

For additional information, visit NFPA's PPE cleaning page.

Product Showcase

  • Full Line of Defense Against Combustible Dust Nilfisk

    Nilfisk provides a comprehensive range of industrial vacuums meticulously crafted to adhere to NFPA 652 housekeeping standards, essential for gathering combustible dust in Class I, Group D, and Class II, Groups E, F & G environments or non-classified settings. Our pneumatic vacuums are meticulously engineered to fulfill safety criteria for deployment in hazardous surroundings. Leveraging advanced filtration technology, Nilfisk ensures the secure capture of combustible materials scattered throughout your facility, ranging from fuels, solvents, and metal dust to flour, sugar, and pharmaceutical powders. Read More

  • SECUPRO MARTEGO

    FOR HIGHEST DEMANDS. A cutting tool in which function and design go hand in hand. Meet the SECUPRO MARTEGO, our prize-winning squeeze-grip safety knife with fully automatic retractable blade for safety. • Ergonomically friendly trigger mechanism to engage the blade • Durable body made of aluminum • Safer alternative to fixed blade utility knives for general cutting tasks • 9 mm Cutting depth • Easy, tool free blade change Dimensions: L 6.10" L x 0.71" W x 1.91" H Weight: 3.70 oz Cutting Depth: 9 mm Read More

  • Glove Guard® Clip

    Safety should never be compromised, especially when it comes to proper glove usage. The Glove Guard® clip enhances safety by encouraging employees to keep their gloves with them at all times. This reduces the risk of accidents and injuries on the job. By ensuring everyone has their gloves readily available, we help promote a culture of safety and efficiency. The Glove Guard® clip is designed to withstand the toughest work environments. Constructed from robust materials made in the USA, it can endure extreme conditions, including harsh weather, and rigorous activities. Read More

Featured

Most   Popular

Artificial Intelligence