Wearing Personal Protective Equipment is essential, especially for those jobs that deal with emergency situations like fire. And while safety is the main reason why proper PPE should be worn, they are needed by firefighters to prevent them from inhaling hazardous fumes, toxins, and debris that could harm their lungs and respiratory system.
Read more as we are going to tackle the importance of Personal Protective Equipment or PPE for firefighters in today’s article.
Physical Protection
PPE for firefighters is extremely important so they can enter a house or building without suffering from burns or lung damage from smoke inhalation. Even in situations where these heroes have to engage in size-up or overhaul, wearing of PPE is also required so they won’t get seriously injured while doing their job.
Every Equipment Serves A Purpose
The trousers and bunker jackets are critical components of a firefighter’s PPE ensemble as it is made with different layers of fabric for optimal fire protection. To be specific, the trousers and bunker jackets are composed of an outer shell or layer, a moisture barrier, and the thermal layer.
The outer and thermal layer protects the wearer from radiant heat, and it can also serve as protection from partial flame. While the moisture barrier serves as a protection from the sprayed water to prevent their bodies from getting soaked and save them from injuries due to steam burns.
On the other hand, the gloves and boots that firefighters wear are made from fire-resistant materials to safeguard their hands from sharp objects, radiant heat, and other forms of danger that they might encounter during fire service.
Furthermore, the helmet is the most recognizable equipment of a firefighter. And it is made from durable and fire-resistant materials to protect their head from extreme temperatures and falling debris. Likewise, it also prevents the firefighter from getting drenched from the sprayed water.
Finally, the PPE also includes a face mask, an air pack, and an air cylinder so they can regulate air pressure and breathe clean air during firefighting operations. And in some situations, small editions such as a sealed off gear is also included so that the exhaled air will be used to cool the firefighter off.
Protection From Health Hazards
Aside from providing physical protection, the Personal Protective Equipment also serves as safety gear to protect the firefighter from dangerous elements in the air that might lead to serious respiratory conditions due to excessive inhalation of smoke and fumes. In addition, the PPE also acts as a shield to prevent the skin from absorbing harmful toxins and particles that might otherwise lead to chronic health conditions.
Final Word
Overall, PPE for firefighters is always required to be worn during fire service to provide enough protection and to enable these professionals from capably performing their duties. In addition to wearing PPE correctly, proper maintenance of this gear is also essential so that the equipment will remain in good condition and is ready to be worn in the event of another fire emergency.
