Structural Gear Routine Cleaning

NFPA 1851, 2008 edition

GENERAL

Each firefighter should perform a Routine Cleaning on their protective clothing after each use.

Refer to the manufacturer's instructions if available.

Universal precautions should be followed until it is confirmed that the garment is safe to handle.

Routine Cleaning is not required to be documented.

At the emergency scene:

Where possible, cleaning shall be initiated at the emergency scene by rinsing the element off with low pressure water.

At the fire department:

Separate shell from thermal liner to prevent cross contamination.
Rinse the affected area with low pressure water.
Where necessary, a soft bristle brush shall be used to gently scrub, and the element shall be rinsed off again.
If rinsing fails to render the element clean, elements shall be cleaned in a utility sink designated for personal protective equipment (PPE) cleaning and decontamination using the following procedures:
- Pre-treat heavily soiled or spotted areas.
- Use a mild detergent with a pH range of not less than 6.0 pH and not greater than 10.5 pH as indicated on the product MSDS or original product container.
- Chlorine bleach, chlorinated solvents, active ingredient cleaning agents, or solvents shall not be used without the element manufacturer's approval.
- Water temperature shall not exceed 105F.
- The element shall be gently scrubbed using a soft bristle brush.
- The element shall be thoroughly rinsed.
- Check effectiveness of cleaning
If necessary, rewash or submit for Advanced Cleaning.
Elements shall be dried in a well ventilated area or in a dryer on a "low" or "no heat" setting. It is important that the basket temperature does not rise above 105F.
Following the routine cleaning procedure, the utility sink shall be cleaned out and rinsed.

Additional Requirements for Routine Cleaning of Helmet Elements

If it is necessary to totally immerse the helmet, the helmet shall be submitted for Advanced Cleaning.
Solvents shall not be used to clean or decontaminate helmets or helmet components. The manufacturer shall be consulted if stronger cleaning agents are required.
Wipe dry or hang in an area designated for protective ensemble drying.
Do not machine dry helmets using equipment that produces mechanical action from tumbling or agitation.

Additional Requirements for Routine Cleaning of Glove Elements

Glove elements shall not be machine dried using equipment that produces mechanical action from tumbling or agitation.

Additional Requirements for Routine Cleaning of Footwear Elements

Footwear elements shall not be machine dried using equipment that produces mechanical action from tumbling or agitation.