Firefighters have always been at risk for various cancers due to exposure to hazardous materials but the risks have been compounded by the introduction of new, often more dangerous construction materials. Combating these threats is not a one-time effort but requires a consistent, disciplined approach to health and safety every day. Small steps taken in daily routines can collectively reduce risks and help ensure a long, healthy life beyond the fire service.
Below are key actions that firefighters can take to reduce exposure to harmful carcinogens, which I’ve learned and researched throughout my 30-year career as a firefighter:
1. On-Site Gross Decontamination:
- Post-Incident PPE Removal: Immediately after exiting the hot zone, perform gross decontamination to limit off-gassing of toxins. After exit from the IDLH (immediately dangerous to life or health) and while still on air, immediate gross decontamination of PPE using soapy water and a brush, if weather conditions allow, should be performed. (In freezing weather conditions replace water rinse with dry brush cleaning).
- Bagging PPE: Bag contaminated PPE and SCBA on-site and store it in an external compartment on the truck to reduce exposure and prevent contamination inside the vehicle.
- Proper PPE Handling: When handling contaminated PPE, wear protective gear such as respiratory protection, gloves, safety glasses, aprons, and coveralls to avoid direct exposure to carcinogens.
2. Washing Gear Properly:
- Pre-Soaking: If mechanical pre-soaking is unavailable, or in addition to it, heavily soiled outer shell jackets and pants should be soaked in a bin filled with water and a detergent specifically designed to remove carcinogens.
- Detergent: The detergent should be specifically formulated for bunker gear cleaning, have a pH level within the 6.0–10.5 range, and be effective in removing carcinogens and other contaminants while preserving the integrity of the gear.
- Commercial Extractor/Washer Settings: Ensure the washer is set with pre-soak and rinse cycles.The extractor spin speed should never exceed 100g, to avoid damaging your bunker gear.
- Proper Loading: Wash similar components together (e.g., outer shells with outer shells, liners with liners), and ensure all closures are fastened to prevent damage or improper washing.
- Inspection After Wash: After washing, thoroughly inspect the PPE to ensure it is effectively cleaned. If the gear appears still contaminated, repeat the wash cycle until the gear is clean.
3. Proper PPE Drying Techniques:
- Bunker Gear: Bunker gear should be dried using a static dryer to maintain it’s protective integrity.
- Outer Shell: The outer shell of your bunker gear should be dried flipped inside out. Area’s like pockets and knee pads will hold the most moisture coming out of the extractor, so having the air flow hit them first will dry it faster.
- Vapor Barrier: The vapor barrier of your bunker gear is a one way membrane, meaning it will allow airflow to exit the garment, but not flow into the garment. The vapor barrier should be dried with the vapor barrier facing outward.
- Temperature: Air temperature may not exceed 105°F.
4. Cleaning Accessory Elements:
- Utility Sink Cleaning: Accessories like helmets, boots, and gloves should be cleaned in a utility sink using water that does not exceed 105°F. The detergent should have a pH between 6.0 and 10.5 to effectively remove contaminants.
- Helmet Cleaning: Use a soft bristle brush to clean the interior and exterior of the helmet, ensuring all areas are scrubbed thoroughly. Dry the helmet with a soft towel.
- Boot Cleaning: Clean boots using a soft bristle brush, starting with the interior and then moving to the exterior.
- Hood Cleaning: If the manufacturer allows, machine wash hoods independently or with garment liners. Pre-soak hoods for at least 10 minutes before gently rubbing the material together to release contaminants. Rinse thoroughly and gently squeeze out excess water (do not wring).
- Glove Cleaning: Unless the manufacturer specifically allows machine washing, gloves should be hand-washed in a utility sink. Wear examination gloves over the gloves being cleaned, rubbing them together gently, and use a soft bristle brush to scrub the exterior. Thoroughly rinse the gloves and dry them using airflow, making sure the air temperature stays below 105°F.
5. Body and Station Wear:
- Shower Within the Hour: Clean your skin and lower your body temperature as quickly as possible after a call to combat skin exposure. Aim to shower within an hour of returning from the scene.
- Station Wear: Station wear should always be washed in a separate washing machine from your PPE extractor. Clean station wear should be worn at all times, ensuring you’re not inadvertently carrying contaminants into clean zones in your station.
6. Preventing Unnecessary Exposure:
- Prioritize Decontamination: Maintain a consistent decontamination routine to ensure all PPE and accessories are thoroughly cleaned and properly stored.
- Consistency and Vigilance: Discipline and consistency in following decontamination protocols will help prevent long-term exposure to harmful carcinogens.
- Consider Washing Gear with PFAS Exposure: If your gear contains PFAS, consider washing it after multiple uses, even if it wasn’t involved in an incident. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for gear care.
- Avoid Wearing Bunker Gear Unnecessarily: Avoid wearing bunker gear during physical training or unnecessary activities. During training, when breaking for lunch or taking rehab breaks, get out of your gear. A rise of just 5°F in body temperature increases the absorption of toxins by 400%, and the neck and head are especially vulnerable due to their vascularity.
- Consider Every Fire Dangerous: SCBA masks should be worn during all fire incidents including overhaul. Even if you’re a safe distance from the hot zone, exposure to unknown fire gases remains a risk.
By implementing these actions consistently, firefighters can significantly reduce their exposure to dangerous carcinogens, improving both their immediate health and long-term safety. These steps, while small in individual impact, collectively make a powerful difference in the health and well-being of the entire firefighting community.
Thank you for your service to your communities and your countries.
Respectfully,
Lance Dornn
Retired Local 803
