Firefighter Clothing: What's The Difference Between Class A & Class B Uniform Setup?

The NFPA 1975: Standard on Emergency Services Work Apparel provides the scope for uniformed members on proper work attire and equipment. Firefighters are included in this scope, with particular safety guidelines on fire department clothing, protective gear, fire retardant gear, respirator gear, and other equipment for on-the-job emergencies.

Outside this scope, firefighters are also known to have two categorized sets of uniforms: Class A (dress uniform) and Class B (tactical). Let's take a closer look at what differs them and the proper time to wear these regulated uniforms.

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Class A Firefighter Uniform

The categorized Class A uniform is also commonly called "dress uniform" in the public safety personnel departments. This uniform is worn during special formal events, such as awards giving, weddings, funerals, and other public ceremonial occasions.

Firefighters are required to follow a particular dress code for when it's the proper time to wear the Class A uniform. Even outside the office, they are expected to look sharp and respectable in the eyes of the citizens.

What does a firefighter's "dress uniform" include?

When in Class A dress uniform, firefighters, and other personnel in different law enforcement departments must maintain the symbol of honor, nobility, authority, and professionalism. It often includes insignias that indicate the officer's rank and position in a particular office.

The most common Class A dress uniform set up for male and female officers:

  1. Regulated blue or white uniform cap with insignia

  2. Long or short-sleeved uniform dress shirt (navy blue or white) with emblems of rank and award ribbons

  3. Black necktie for males and black continental crossover tie for females

  4. Navy-blue dress trousers with black belt (approved buckle)

  5. Black calf-length socks of plain design and black Dress boots or Oxford shoes with black laces

  6. Badge and name tag

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Class B Firefighter Uniform

The Class B uniform is the tactical uniform worn by firefighters on the job, including their station wear and field apparel.

A full range of firefighter apparel includes a shirt, gloves, pants, boots, and a hat. Each piece is a specialty garment made with high-quality and durable materials that meet the fire department's personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.

Fire department gear and apparel are available with different designs and colors. Tops, pants, and overalls are available in both short and long sleeves.

Regulated Firefighter Uniform For Station Wear & Field Jobs

All fire department officials are subjected to wear regulated station and field uniforms, gear, and equipment. Their clothing consists of a variety of safety features and emergency first aid that are specifically designed according to approved standards.

Conclusively, there are various implications involved in the proper clothing of firefighters. Each type of uniform has its purpose, and it has to do with the need for the event and the professionalism that the officers must always reflect. Class A dress uniforms and Class B tactical uniforms are both within official stipulations, which all fire department officers have to follow.

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