SUPPLEMENT · 2020. 6. 23. · Less Stress & Faster Response. ... CBRN PPE HAZMAT RESPONSE TRAINING A3 W hen the fictional character Dick Tracy famously showcased his two-way wrist

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PLUS: COVID-19 and PPEAnswers to your most pressing questionsp.A8

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Non-Encapsulating Hazmat Response PPE Designed for Maximum Threat Protection. Less Stress & Faster Response.

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A3CBRN PPE & HAZMAT RESPONSE TRAINING

When the fictional character Dick Tracy famously showcased his two-way wrist radio back in the 1940s, the reality of such a technology most likely

seemed far-fetched; but some 70 years later, fiction became real-ity with the invention of the smartwatch. Technology always is progressing at a rapid speed, and technology in the fire service is no exception.

Since beginning my career, I have noticed that technological developments in hazmat and chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive (CBRN) products have made giant leaps, from decon to monitoring. These advancements have changed strategies and tactics in ways that we only could have imagined just 10 years ago. CBRN PPE, specifically, has improved in safety, comfort and efficiency for responders. It has been noth-ing short of amazing.

CBRN PPE—or what can be considered CBRN PPE—is any fabric or ensemble that meets the protection standards for personnel responding to CBRN events.

From the late 1970s up until the 1995 Tokyo subway sarin attacks (and with other threats that began in 2000), the accepted PPE for hazmat response was the Level A and Level B suits of the NFPA 1991: Standard on Vapor-Protective Ensembles for Hazardous Materials Emergencies and CBRN Terrorism Incidents. The Technical Committee on Hazardous Materials Protective Clothing and Equipment began working on a new standard in 1998 to respond to the need for PPE for fire and emergency services personnel who operate at domestic terrorism incidents that involve dual-use industrial chemicals, chemical terrorism agents or biological terrorism agents.

The Committee developed the new standard, NFPA 1994: Standard on Protective Ensembles for First Responders to Haz-ardous Materials Emergencies and CBRN Terrorism Incidents, to provide several levels of protective ensembles: Class 1, Class 2 and Class 3. The choice of the needed protection would be based on the incident-risk analysis that’s indicated as necessary for the intended operation. Since that time, CBRN PPE technology has continued to meet the ever-changing threats.

What your suit needsA CBRN suit should be quick to don, improve visibility for the wearer, allow for dexterity and comfort and be durable. Mobil-

ity, heat and cold stressors also are big factors in selecting and wearing a suit. Why are each of those characteristics important?

Donning time: When time is of the essence, it is important that you can be safely in suit and on air within five minutes for life-safety rescues. In cases in which we responded to clandes-tine labs in Nashville with our police performing a raid, our personnel have had to suit up quickly in case there is a need for life-safety, monitoring or emergency decon. The LION MT94 suit has been the “go-to” ensemble for such a mission.

Visibility: Visibility is half the battle when dealing with CBRN or hazmat calls. The summer and winter months are the worst. In July 2019, our crew responded to a peroxide call. It was 98 degrees and humid. Because they wore the MT94 suit, which won’t fog, they had zero issues. They handled the incident and got back quickly. If they had a Level A suit, time would’ve doubled—with the heat and condensation, they would’ve had to take time to wipe the shield.

Dexterity and comfort: Dexterity and comfort are second to visibility. If you have good dexterity performing your job and you’re comfortable doing the task, it makes for a smoother mitigation.

Mobility is another critical factor in responding to and mitigating hazards. If you have to fight vision, heat or cold and your suit bunches up or limits your movement, the stress level of your response can increase.

Durability: Your suit must be capable of facing the chal-lenges in the ever-changing landscape of CBRN and urban search and rescue (USAR) incidents. The fabric on the outer shell of the MT94 is like that of firefighter turnout gear. With reinforced padding, it rises to the challenge in the harshest of environments; from building collapses to industrial settings, the suit is proven to be able to handle most any incident.

When these advances are included in your product, response becomes better, quicker and safer for your crew. n

ABOUT THE AUTHORMichael Armistead began his career as a firefighter in 1992 at the Goodlettsville, TN, Fire Department. He joined the Nashville Fire Department (NFD) in 2000. After spending 10 years on NFD Hazmat 12, he began working in special operations, where he is an instructor. Armistead develops hazmat response plans to special events in Nashville and is a team leader for the Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team (HART). He also serves on the state committee for the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency’s Hazmat/CBRNe curriculum committee.

Making the Leap from Paper SuitsToday’s advanced CBRN PPE provides better, quicker and safer response.

Although the Nashville Fire Department still uses paper-style suits, it has migrated more to the MT94s for ease, speed, comfort and safety. Photo by Michael Armistead

By Mike Armistead

In response to the Sept. 11 attacks, FDNY established a tiered-response model for hazardous materials response incidents. The department’s tiered Hazmat Response Group comprises 146 units that have varied levels of training and equipment. These units are tasked with different roles or missions at a hazmat incident.

All FDNY responders are trained to the hazmat operations level in

accordance with NFPA 472: Standard for Competence of Responders to Haz-ardous Materials/Weapons of Mass Destruction Incidents, which defines provisions and training requirements for operations-level responders who are assigned mission-specific responsibili-ties. It also establishes the framework for FDNY’s Hazmat Response Group. FDNY’s hazmat technicians also are trained in accordance with NFPA 472.

They have dual responsibilities in the hot zone: mitigation and rescue.

In parallel to the evolution of FDNY’s hazardous materials program, these same events led to the origin and evolution of the NFPA’s development of the NFPA 1994: Standard on Pro-tective Ensembles for First Responders to Hazardous Materials Emergencies and CBRN Terrorism Incidents. (The first edition was released in May 2001.)

The vision of this standard was that a thorough risk analysis of an incident would drive the protection level that’s required for incident operations. NFPA 1994 was designed to reduce the safety and health risks that are associated with assessment, extrication, rescue, triage and treatment operations at an event that involves hazardous materials or CBRN agents. This standard bridged the gap between 100 percent vapor-tight ensembles and liquid-tight ensembles with four levels of ensembles that provide varying degrees of vapor, liquid and particulate protection.

Several events helped shape FDNY's Hazardous Materials response plan and organization. The 1995 sarin attack on the Tokyo subway system by the Aum Shinrikyo cult led to the establishment of FDNY’s chemical protective clothing (CPC) truck companies and an increase in the number of squad companies that are capable of responding to similar incidents.

A4 CBRN PPE & HAZMAT RESPONSE TRAINING

Improvements to CBRN PPE GearFDNY adopts innovations in its chemical protective clothing program.By John Cassidy and Christina Baxter

* Documented in GORE white paper, available upon request. Image provided by LION

Ensemble upgradePrior to 2010, FDNY equipped units of the Hazmat Response Group with two-part ensembles that met NFPA 1991: Standard on Vapor-Protective Ensembles of Hazardous Materials and CBRN Terrorism Incidents (Level A), where the flash fire-protective overlayer was required to be worn with the chemical permeation-protective base layer. These layers weren’t separable, in that each was required to meet the NFPA 1991 base standard.Unfortunately, the multilayer ensemble added to the already high metabolic heat load on the operator. This is one of the many challenges when operating in a fully encapsulating suit, particularly for rescue missions.

In addition, the physical strain that’s associated with the effort to compress or flex suit material can elevate body tem-perature. This heat and the humidity that’s associated with sweat becomes trapped within the garment. Elevated temperature and increased physical exertion increase the metabolic work rate, which results in an increased respiratory rate and decreased operational time. Vision can be obscured when moisture from sweat and respiration condenses on the inside of the visor.

With the 2010 CPC upgrade pro-gram, the two-layer NFPA 1991 (Level A) ensemble was replaced with two different


FDNY selected the LION MT94 ensemble for rescue missions

within the hot zone. The ensemble provided decreased

donning time, improved visibility, superior dexterity, reduction in heat stress and enhanced

ruggedness.LION

FDNY’s Hazmat Response Group At-a-Glance:• Chief in charge of hazmat operations• Hazmat Battalion• Hazardous Materials Company 1• 17 Hazmat Technician II Units that consist of four

hazmat-technician engines, eight squad companies and five rescue companies

• 25 Hazmat Technician I SSL (SOC support ladder companies)• 25 decon engines• One decon support unit• 29 chemical protective truck companies• Five decon shower units• 28 EMS HazTac ambulances• 11 Rescue Medic ambulances• Two EMS HazTac supervisors• Three marine units• Rescue Battalion & Safety Battalion are CPC-trained and offer

additional command presence, if requested

garments to address the different missions that take place in the hot zone.

First, the Trelleborg Trellchem VPS Flash ensemble was selected as an improved NFPA 1991 (Level A) suit for mitigation missions performed by Hazmat Company 1 and Hazmat Technician II units. The department’s new NFPA 1991 (Level A) ensemble improves operations for the technician who is mitigating the incident. Mitigation missions most often are associated with direct contact with the product. The plumbing, patching and

sealing work usually doesn’t require the same physical effort as rescue operations in the hot zone.

Next, the NFPA 1994 Class 1/Class 2 LION MT94 (Level A/B) ensemble was selected for rescue missions within the hot zone. Performance improvements of the LION MT94 compared with the legacy Level A garment include decreased donning time, improved visibility, a glove system that provides superior dexterity, reduction in heat stress and enhanced ruggedness. The MT94 is a nonencap-sulated, gas/vapor-tight garment that is constructed from W.L. Gore’s Chempak ultra barrier fabric. The nonencapsulat-ing design and fabric choice result in the performance improvements. Heat gen-eration is reduced by decreasing weight

and increasing flexibility of the garment.Heat stress can be reduced even

more by wetting the garment with water. The conductive cooling that takes place contributes to increased comfort. A reduction in heat stress and physical exertion results in a decrease in air con-sumption. As such, the responder can remain safely in the hot zone for longer periods of time.

The garment’s improved ruggedness expands tactical areas of operations to include incidents that previously were

The MT94 is worn by FDNY's hazmat rapid-intervention team (HM R.I.T.) to respond to injured members of a mitigation team. The MT94 replaced the NFPA 1991 (Level A) for life-safety operations that require vapor-protective clothing for all units in the Hazmat Response Group. LION

Decon Line Operations

Decon line operations take place in the warm zone, and personnel aren’t expected to confront the

concentrations that are found in the hot zone. Decon operations can be extended-duration events. For extended-duration decon events, FDNY recently procured the Lion ERS garment that’s certified to NFPA 1994: Standard on Protective Ensembles for First Responders to Haz-ardous Materials Emergencies and CBRN Terrorism Incidents Class 3. Warm-zone operations that have decreased threat concentrations allow for different fabrics to be used. NFPA 1994 Class 3 address-es this by having performance require-ments for heat stress, by measuring total heat loss (THL) and breathability (Ret, evaporative resistance). The LION ERS uses A W.L. Gore Chempak selectively permeable fabric. The LION ERS is lighter than the MT94, and the improvements in breathability and heat loss allow the decon team to operate more comfortably for longer periods of time.


considered too damaging to the NFPA 1991 (Level A) suit, including collapsed debris areas.

The MT94 is worn by the hazmat rapid-intervention team (HM R.I.T.) to respond to injured members of a mitiga-tion team. The MT94 replaced the NFPA 1991 (Level A) for life-safety operations that require vapor-protective clothing for all units in the Hazmat Response Group. The MT94 variant in service with FDNY has attached gloves, boots and a hood that seals against the SCBA face piece via a gasket. There is no need for tape when wearing the MT94.

The MT94 also is considered a

rear-entry garment, having the zipper across the shoulders of the suit. FDNY concluded that the zipper area is one of the weaker aspects of a CPC ensemble and that it is advantageous not to have the closure in the working area of the garment. There also is less chance of cross-contamination when exiting the garment post-decon when the zipper is located on the back of the garment.

The department also looked at CPC for environments that did not require high levels of gas/vapor protection. This would include decon-line operations, mitigation missions requiring liquid-splash protection and high-risk patient

transport missions. FDNY worked with the garment manufacturers to incorpo-rate the design elements of the MT94 into two new garments: a DuPont NFPA 1992 Splash garment (Level B for direct liquid splash) and an NFPA 1994 Class 3 LION ERS garment (Level C for low level vapor or liquid splash). The stan-dardized configuration across all of these garments simplifies CPC training by having a similar don/doff procedure for all of the nonencapsulated suits.

Totally encapsulating NFPA 1991-cer-tified garments are intended for responses that involve direct contact with pres-surized liquids and pressurized vapors. For operations that fall outside of this scenario, understanding the different applicable standards and your depart-ment’s operational needs can assist in pro-curing appropriate CPC. Mission-specific operational standards that are within NFPA 472 can optimize your department’s capability to respond to incidents by best utilizing existing resources and setting realistic proficiency goals. n

ABOUT THE AUTHORSJohn Cassidy is a lieutenant and 24-year member of FDNY. He is assigned to Hazardous Materials Company 1 and is an instructor at FDNY’s Hazmat Technician School. Cassidy holds an associate degree in bio-medical engineering from SUNY-Farmingdale and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from SUNY-Stony Brook.

Christina Baxter is the CEO of Emergency Response TIPS, LLC. Prior to forming her company, Baxter was the program manager of the CBRNE program at the Department of Defense's Combating Terrorism Techni-cal Support Office. She is the chairperson for the NFPA standards for CBRNE PPE and is a committee member for several other standards in the protection and haz-ardous materials operations arenas. She received her doctorate from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Use as a Level ABy Michael Armistead

When specifically discussing the LION MT94 suit, NFPA standards can be compared with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) levels. OSHA levels were established in the 1980s by the EPA and then codified into OSHA 1910.120 for both hazardous waste-site operation and emergency response.

When we look at the levels covered, we see that only threats to skin and the respiratory system are addressed. Performance isn’t con-sidered. NFPA standards for hazmat PPE were introduced in the early 1990s to define the minimum levels of protection and performance. Standards have evolved to keep up with the current and emerging threats. That said, this technology has limited hot-zone protection—certified to NFPA 1994: Standard on Protective Ensembles for First Responders to Hazardous Materials Emergencies and CBRN Terrorism Incidents for Class 1 and Class 2 and NFPA 1992: Standard on Liquid Splash-Protective Ensembles and Clothing for Hazardous Materials Emergencies for hot-zone operations.

What that means is that the MT94 can be used as a Level A suit in the right setting, which is another game-changer in the industry. By making entries into the hot zone in a known environment, your dexterity, vision and comfort make for more efficient response versus the heavy Level A suit. The Class 1 is by all rights considered a Level A suit by OSHA, EPA and NFPA.

The LION Extended Response Suit (ERS) is certified to NFPA 1994, Class 3 (Toxic Industrial Chemical and Warfare Agent Protection), and NFPA 1992 (Liquid Splash). LION


Contributors: Karen Lehtonen, vice president of research & development; Alysha Gray, product marketing director of PPE; Anna Schlotterbeck, senior product marketing manager of TotalCare


How should I refer to this virus and disease as it relates to PPE?Chances are, you have heard the terms “new coronavirus,” “novel coronavirus” and “COVID-19” all used interchange-ably—and honestly, it’s fine to use any of those in conversation with your friends and family as they will understand what you mean. But remember: the novel/new coronavirus or SARS-CoV2 refers to the virus itself, while COVID-19 refers to the disease that it causes in humans. PPE helps protect you from the virus, so you don’t get COVID-19.

What are the different NFPA standards that can be referenced that deal with viral protection?First, let’s address the test method refer-enced in the NFPA standards to assess viral penetration, ASTM F1671. This is a 60-minute viral penetration test. The barriers in PPE that are certified to meet NFPA 1999, 1994, 1971 and 1951 are all tested to this method, and we know they protect against HIV, hepatitis, SARS and Ebola. The novel coronavirus and SARS are from the same family of viruses. The previous SARS virus is an even smaller molecule than the COVID-19 molecule, so, although most PPE has not been tested specifically against SARS-CoV2—as that’s all still very new—it does stand to reason it will block that larger but more infec-tious molecule.

(Further details regarding each of these standards can be found on the LION COVID-19 resources webpage at lionprotects.com/covid19.)

Does structural turnout gear provide protection against the virus?The moisture barrier in your structural firefighting turnout gear provides viral penetration protection against bloodborne

pathogens reaching your skin. However, wearing your turnout gear, although a good protector for your other clothing and your skin, is probably overkill. Structural turnout gear does not provide any face covering or respiratory protection. Addi-tionally, even though the outer shell will likely take the brunt of the exposure, the entire garment would need to be cleaned and decontaminated before wearing again, as pathogens can pass through the outer shell and deposit onto the liner.

Is LION RedZone turnout gear or Particulate Blocking Hood more protective against COVID-19 than general turnout gear?The RedZone Contaminant Control package in LION’s turnout uses Dupont’s Nomex Nano Flex in the PPE inter-face areas; Stedair Prevent is utilized throughout the entire RedZone hood. Both products are particulate-blocking layer materials only and do not offer viral or bloodborne pathogen penetration protection in the same way that a certi-fied moisture barrier does. Therefore, the particulate-blocking features cannot be claimed to offer viral or bloodborne pathogen-penetration protection. How-ever, from a particle-blocking perspective, we know the following:• Generally, viruses range from about 20

nm to 400 nm in size• The SARS-CoV2 virus is about 120 nm

in size• Bacteria are in the 1,000s of nm• The RedZone particulate-blocking hood

blocks 99 percent of particulates sized 100 nm to 1,000 nm (0.1 to 1 microns)

• The RedZone Contaminant Control Pack-age’s particulate-blocking features block 99.0–99.9 percent of particulates sized 100 nm to 1,000 nm (0.1 to 1 microns)

This indicates these materials in the hood and at the turnout PPE interface

areas can be effective in offering a primary shield for dermal protection. Reducing skin contamination can further decrease the spread from exposed skin to your face, where the virus can enter through your eyes, nose and mouth.

Additionally, neither of these products are tested nor meet the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health require-ments for an N95 mask. The requirement for an N95 mask is to block 95 percent of particles 300 nm (0.3 micron) or larger; the aforementioned RedZone particulate materials have not been tested for proper airflow rates and other protective proper-ties relevant to N95 masks.

Do boots or gloves provide protection against the virus?Structural gloves, such as LION’s Com-mander Ace or Primus, do offer viral protection because of the moisture barrier. It is important that they be cleaned and decontaminated if exposed. The LION Bravo EMS gloves also include a moisture barrier and are certified to meet NFPA 1999 as a work glove. Gloves should also be cleaned and decontaminated if exposed.

Structural boots, such as the LION by Thorogood QR14 or Knockdown Elite, have moisture barriers that have viral-penetration protection. Cleaning and decontaminating footwear is important so consider rubber boots, such as the LION by Thorogood Hellfire, because they can easily be cleaned and decontaminated over and over.

How do I clean and decontaminate gear that’s been exposed or contaminated? Our LION TotalCare team has done a lot of great work to answer this ques-tion, putting together the PPE Exposure Response checklist found on page A10 of

Three LION team members spoke with Firehouse Magazine to provide valuable information and to clear up misconceptions. PPE & COVID-19


this supplement. Follow the guidelines on our website, lionprotects.com/covid19, that reference NFPA 1851, 2020 edition instructions and the list of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-approved sani-tizers, which our team has also further narrowed down for simplicity and to include those approved specifically for use against human coronaviruses.

The safest method for disinfection and sanitization of exposed or poten-tially exposed PPE is to work with a verified independent service provider (ISP). Whenever possible, refer to the manufacturer’s cleaning and sanitizing/disinfecting instructions as well as the 2020 Edition of the NFPA 1851: Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting. A verified ISP will use a disinfection or sani-tization process for suspected or known contaminants or other viruses and bacteria. In addition, LION TotalCare uses ozone in every extractor cleaning cycle to treat for biohazards. This cleaning agent is extremely effective, nontoxic and chemical-free while providing 99.999 percent sanitization from germs, viruses and bacteria. This ozone process exceeds NFPA 1851, 2020 Edition’s requirement for sanitization without using high wash temperatures that, over time, can shorten the life of your PPE.

If you do not have an ISP nearby and you need to handle the contaminated gear in-house, start by bagging, sealing and isolating exposed gear. Before handling, don proper PPE and spray the outside of the bag with antiviral/antibacterial spray. Submerge the bag that holds the gear inside a decontamination barrel that contains an EPA-approved sanitizer. While sub-merged, open the bag and submerge the gear completely. Set your timer and follow all the appropriate instructions listed by the sanitizing product. It is very important that you follow the instructions from the sanitizer manufacturer related to dilu-tion rate and dwell time for most effective

use. Not following the instructions could damage your PPE or, worse, render the sanitization process ineffective.

Also, make sure to separate your liners and shells and then continue the launder-ing process according to NFPA 1851, 2020 Edition requirements.

Can I soak my PPE in a solution of sanitizer and then perform an Advanced Clean?Yes, however, you must verify that the sani-tizer is on the EPA list and is proven to be effective against the specific contaminant. You must also follow the dilution and dwell time for the product. Reference NFPA 1851 A.7.4.4.1 for additional information.

Should EMS gear be cleaned differently than firefighter turnout gear?Whether it’s structural firefighter turnout gear, EMS gear, StationWear™, gloves or boots, each might require different care based on the materials used. Follow the steps outlined in NFPA 1851 2020 Edition and the manufacturer’s user guides for appropriate cleaning agents, sanitizers or disinfectants and processes.

Can I use bleach to clean my turnout gear?Bleach is never recommended for use on turnout gear, as it degrades the materials significantly, making it far less effective at keeping you safe.

What’s the difference between sanitizing and disinfecting?In general, sanitization is most often applied to porous surfaces, such as the fabrics and textiles associated with gar-ments, helmets textile components, gloves, footwear and hoods, whereas disinfec-tion is applied to hard surfaces, such as helmets' shells.

Sanitization reduces the number of microorganisms (e.g., bacteria, viruses) to a safe level, generally defined by the EPA

as 99.9 percent. Disinfection kills or inac-tivates all microorganisms as indicated on the specific label or the product (typically to 99.9999 percent). It is important that cleaning be performed along with either sanitization or disinfection as appropriate for the PPE item.

Are there specific sprays/disinfectants and techniques we can use on our EMS gear and turnouts that will effectively decontaminate without degrading the material? Laundering after each incident is not practical.Unfortunately, currently, there are no sprays for preliminary exposure reduc-tion (PER) that have been proven to be effective against the virus.

Can you effectively use UV light to decontaminate PPE, and what are the implications for breakdown of the PPE because of UV exposure?We’ve been asked this a lot recently, and regardless of where things shake out with future studies on ultraviolet light’s effective-ness at killing the virus (and its potential risks to humans), it is NOT recommended to use UV/UVC light to decontaminate PPE. Many of the components used in PPE are particularly sensitive to UV light, and, therefore, this method of decontamination should not be used.

We heard estimates of the lifespan of the virus on several different surface types. Do we know what the average lifespan of the virus is on turnout gear fabric, such as Nomex?Currently, no studies have been done regarding how long the virus lives on textiles, such as Nomex, etc. If studies are conducted, we’ll be sure to update our webpage with additional information and resources as soon as available. n

PPE & COVID-19

TAKE INVENTORY.Take inventory of all gear (make,

model of all issued PPE)

GET THINGS IN ORDER.Establish a sequence for removing

contaminated PPE based on the PPE items being worn and practice those

doffing procedures to become familiar with correct doffing to minimize

potential for cross contamination.

Adapt generalized doffing procedures from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO) or other recognized organizations based on the specific PPE that is available.

www.lionprotects.com/covid19

Additional PPE Safety Information Resources:

o If PPE is contaminated, thought to be contaminated, compromised or damaged during use, exit the area and appropriately doff contaminated items. Immediately bag contaminated PPE items.

o If PPE is obviously or grossly contaminated, consider Preliminary Exposure Reduction (PER). NOTE: PER does NOT replace PPE sanitation.

o Contain and seal contaminated or potentially contaminated PPE in a biohazard bag. One firefighter’s set of PPE per bag (coat, pant, gloves, boots, hood, helmet).

o Spray the outside of the bag with a sanitizer.

o Transport gear in the sealed bag.

o STOP! Don’t take contaminated gear into the fire station. Don appropriate PPE and continue to Next Step.

o If sending gear to a verified ISP such as TotalCare, label bag with Department, Name and serial numbers, if possible. Ask ISP representative for instructions on how to transport gear. Visit www.lionprotects.com/covid19 to locate the nearest TotalCare facility. If laundering in house, proceed to Next Step.

o STOP! Ensure proper PPE is donned before performing this procedure. Outside the fire station, with gear still in the bag, submerge in a barrel containing an EPA-approved sanitizer for use against SARS-CoV-2. Ensure the sanitizer is properly mixed with water, using the directions listed on the sanitizer’s instructions.

o Follow sanitizer instructions for specific soak time.

o Remove garments from the decontamination barrel. At this time, liners can be removed from outer shells and laundered.

o Wash in a high-temperature wash, not to exceed 140°.

o Dry gear as normal.

MORE COVID-19 SAFETY TIPS

STAY ON AIR WHILE OPERATING IN A CONTAMINATED AREA.

REMOVE RESPIRATOR LAST AS PART OF DOFFING PROCESS.

THOROUGHLY WASH HANDS OR USE HAND SANITIZER FOLLOWING

THE USE OF ANY PPE IN A CONTAMINATED AREA.

VISIT WWW.LIONPROTECTS.COM/COVID19

FOR A LIST OF EPA-APPROVED SANITIZERS THAT MEET THE CLEANING,

SANITIZATION AND DISINFECTION REQUIREMENTS SET FORTH BY NFPA

1851, 2020 FOR USE ON STRUCTURAL FIREFIGHTING ENSEMBLES.

BEFORE EXPOSURE AFTER EXPOSURE AFTER EXPOSURE

www.lionprotects.com/totalcare

COVID 19 Double Page Ad.indd 1COVID 19 Double Page Ad.indd 1 4/24/2020 9:05:34 AM4/24/2020 9:05:34 AM

TAKE INVENTORY.Take inventory of all gear (make,

model of all issued PPE)

GET THINGS IN ORDER.Establish a sequence for removing

contaminated PPE based on the PPE items being worn and practice those

doffing procedures to become familiar with correct doffing to minimize

potential for cross contamination.

Adapt generalized doffing procedures from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO) or other recognized organizations based on the specific PPE that is available.

www.lionprotects.com/covid19

Additional PPE Safety Information Resources:

o If PPE is contaminated, thought to be contaminated, compromised or damaged during use, exit the area and appropriately doff contaminated items. Immediately bag contaminated PPE items.

o If PPE is obviously or grossly contaminated, consider Preliminary Exposure Reduction (PER). NOTE: PER does NOT replace PPE sanitation.

o Contain and seal contaminated or potentially contaminated PPE in a biohazard bag. One firefighter’s set of PPE per bag (coat, pant, gloves, boots, hood, helmet).

o Spray the outside of the bag with a sanitizer.

o Transport gear in the sealed bag.

o STOP! Don’t take contaminated gear into the fire station. Don appropriate PPE and continue to Next Step.

o If sending gear to a verified ISP such as TotalCare, label bag with Department, Name and serial numbers, if possible. Ask ISP representative for instructions on how to transport gear. Visit www.lionprotects.com/covid19 to locate the nearest TotalCare facility. If laundering in house, proceed to Next Step.

o STOP! Ensure proper PPE is donned before performing this procedure. Outside the fire station, with gear still in the bag, submerge in a barrel containing an EPA-approved sanitizer for use against SARS-CoV-2. Ensure the sanitizer is properly mixed with water, using the directions listed on the sanitizer’s instructions.

o Follow sanitizer instructions for specific soak time.

o Remove garments from the decontamination barrel. At this time, liners can be removed from outer shells and laundered.

o Wash in a high-temperature wash, not to exceed 140°.

o Dry gear as normal.

MORE COVID-19 SAFETY TIPS

STAY ON AIR WHILE OPERATING IN A CONTAMINATED AREA.

REMOVE RESPIRATOR LAST AS PART OF DOFFING PROCESS.

THOROUGHLY WASH HANDS OR USE HAND SANITIZER FOLLOWING

THE USE OF ANY PPE IN A CONTAMINATED AREA.

VISIT WWW.LIONPROTECTS.COM/COVID19

FOR A LIST OF EPA-APPROVED SANITIZERS THAT MEET THE CLEANING,

SANITIZATION AND DISINFECTION REQUIREMENTS SET FORTH BY NFPA

1851, 2020 FOR USE ON STRUCTURAL FIREFIGHTING ENSEMBLES.

BEFORE EXPOSURE AFTER EXPOSURE AFTER EXPOSURE

www.lionprotects.com/totalcare

COVID 19 Double Page Ad.indd 1COVID 19 Double Page Ad.indd 1 4/24/2020 9:05:34 AM4/24/2020 9:05:34 AM


Dressing in specialized chemi-cal protective clothing (CPC) is a serious business. We are firm believers that this deci-

sion shouldn’t be taken lightly. So, through training, we address the issues that will arise, might arise and hopefully never arise. Like any piece of equipment that’s used in life-saving responses, firefighters who utilize this PPE need to be comfort-able and proficient wearing and working in the MT94.

Understand the missionWhen the task for the operations- or technician-level hazmat responder is to find the appropriate suit, one question that’s asked is, “What is my mission?” In the beginning stages of an incident, in which people possibly are injured and time is of the essence, this question seems like one that doesn’t fit the situa-tion. The problem dictates the trajectory of an efficient and safe operation for everyone involved.

The mission can be described as an evaluation of several things, such as our training level, geographical location to the release, the number and severity of the patients, the chemical itself and the site of the release. A common question is, “When do we perform the 'wardrobe change'?” Primarily, the MT94 suit in the Type 1 and Type 2 configurations would be a “body moving” suit. If our mission, training and patient count justify this suit, then the choice is clear.


The Importance of PPE TrainingGain comfort and proficiency with your gear.

Victim rescue and recovery is the operation

for which the MT94 is built. Improved dexterity, hearing,

vision and control allow members to make quick, decisive moves to affect

life-saving actions.LION

By Bobby Salvesen and Michael Monaco


We prepare for this decision in train-ing. As a well-rounded hazmat member, prepare for the eventuality of wearing PPE for a prolonged duration in a situ-ation that isn’t meant for humans. This possibility is both mentally and physi-cally stressful. That doesn’t mean that we can’t do it; it means that we must address all of the eventualities that one might encounter and prepare the operator to deal with them.

The training component that needs to be addressed is not only for the members who go downrange but also for supervisors and incident commanders. We have found through extensive training that, although a supervisor isn’t the one who performs the physical work of moving patients and addressing decontamination issues, the supervisors who are in the suit understand the mental and physical challenges that those members go through. The supervi-sors are more empathetic and mindful of the time and of the stresses that they are handling and of when to get out of the hot or warm zone.

Who uses the PPE?Many of the personnel who will be on scene operating in either the warm or hot zone will be the operations level. It’s far easier to train members in 40 hours to a few mission-specific competencies than to teach the same number for the technician level. Many departments choose to have relatively few technicians who are exposed to more training and have more equipment and capabilities and outfit the operations levels with a more defined role.

In the operations level, NFPA des-ignates a limited number of “Mission-Specific Competencies” that operations-level members can attain. There are a few requirements for members to be allowed to do them, though. In short, the depart-ment must train the member who is in the mission, ensure that the member is advised and understands the hazards in doing this job, and equip the member with the tools and PPE to do the job safely.

Product controlA common task for operations-level members is product control. Although we commonly think of the automobile that’s leaking gasoline and the applica-tion of absorbent, incidents might evolve beyond that point to something that’s in the air or that’s confined to a location that must be in the immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH) area. Unfortunately, victims might be there, and operations members will be tasked to move them for life-saving efforts.

In this competency, product control might involve using foam, fans for ventila-tion of an enclosure or remote shut-offs to slow or stop the release.

Air monitoring and samplingThe most performed and trained on mission-specific competency for the operations member, air monitoring is in use for seemingly every unit in the field. The four-gas meter that is used for oxy-gen, hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide and LEL is the tool of choice. We do this with minimal PPE when a multitude of

metering is needed, perhaps because of geographical difficulties, size of the location or compartmentalization of the area. We can suit operations members (assuming trained to wear CPC PPE) and have them assist technician-level members with more metering capabilities.

Mass decontaminationWhen a significant event occurs and quick decontamination of people is needed, we enter an evolving and contaminated envi-ronment. The thought that comes to mind is using two pumpers to create a corridor and have fog appliances to drench victims. What if it is January in the Northeast? Mass decontamination might have to take place in the lobby of a building, near the people who you are decontaminating. There will be overspray. The levels of con-tamination might not be low enough for regular PPE. That is where suits that are compliant with NFPA 1994: Standard on Protective Ensembles for First Responders to Hazardous Materials Emergencies and CBRN Terrorism Incidents, such as the MT94, come in.

Technical decontaminationWe accomplish mass decon at a distance; technical decon undoubtedly is not. Depending on your method of decon—using dry or wet—you will be, at best, an arm's length away from responders or civilians who will be dirty.

Victim rescue and recoveryIn our minds, victim rescue and recovery is the operation for which the MT94 is

To find the appropriate suit, teams must first determine the mission. LION


L ocated in western Arkansas, Fort Smith has a population of about 80,000, which swells to about 150,000 on weekdays when people from outside of the city come in to work. The

Fort Smith Fire Department (FSFD) and its 150 uniformed career personnel and 12 stations cover about 52 square miles.

Training is an important part of the department’s hazmat response, according to 20-year department veteran and hazmat instructor Heath Orabanec, and the department has had success implementing technology to help with that training.

In 2016, the FSFD obtained LION’s GasTrainer system on a U.S. Department of Homeland Security grant. Designed to replicate a four-gas meter, the GasTrainer simulates four gases that are most common to first responder emergencies: oxygen, hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide and LEL. Orabanec says it has been a game-changer for the department by helping to increase educa-tion among firefighters, increasing the longevity of department equipment and, ultimately, saving money.

Several years ago, the FSFD didn’t have gas monitors on appa-ratus, only on battalion or hazmat trucks. “Our everyday firefighters had limited exposure to four-gas meters, where our hazmat guys had quite a bit of exposure,” Orabanec says. When the depart-ment decided to put four-gas meters on all of the apparatus, it was prepared to train the crew. “Instead of taking all these high-dollar meters out and training with them, we could use the GasTrainer,” he says. “It was a close replica of the meters we were using, so it worked out really well for us.” Without the GasTrainer system, Orabanec says the department would be pulling out the real equip-ment, adding wear and tear, and costing the department more

money. “What started as a tool for hazardous materials training ended up benefiting the whole department,” he says.

Train for real scenariosFSFD uses the GasTrainer about twice per year with a full hazmat training and four to six times per year in other modes of training. It has been beneficial for both the trainees and the trainer. First, it removes the unnecessary risk of exposure to immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) environments for everyone.

Second, when it comes to the trainee, it provides a better, more realistic experience. “Rather than just stick-ing a regular meter in their hand and then the trainer saying, ‘Okay, it is beeping, what does that mean?,’ the GasTrainer shows numbers that are going up and down, and they can interpret what they’re reading,” Ora-banec says. This makes it easier for trainees to not only experience but to also understand different scenarios.

Orabanec says it’s quite easy and convenient on the instructor’s end, too. With the system's cability to be customized, trainers can adjust set-tings and alarm levels to create many emergency scenarios. “We have the unique ability to make the students

understand what they’re seeing, and you can use the GasTrainer to throw them a curveball,” he says. “For example, they didn’t get any readings here or there and all of a sudden it jumps way up on them. So, what are they going to do now? It’s pretty interest-ing to have that control and give them a different perspective.”

Before this technology, the FSFD wouldn’t be able to train like this, because there would have been concern for the use of the other equipment. “Basically, we used to use the manual style test for stuff, and this has brought us way up in technology for whatever the scenario might be,” Orabanec says. Nevertheless, he still shows trainees the old way of training. “Showing them the old way of training really puts things in perspective for them, because then I can hand them this one piece of equipment, and they can do everything twice as fast. They really like it, and they understand a lot more.”

The experience and benefits for FSFD firefighters has been significant. “The GasTrainer is almost firefighter-proof,” Orabanec concludes. “It’s super durable and virtually indestructible. It’s a great training tool.”

CASE STUDY

With the GasTrainer, instructors have the ability to customize scenarios and trainees experience realistic training. Photos courtesy of Heath Orabanec

The Fort Smith, AR, Fire Department has used the LION GasTrainer to help educate firefighters and increase longevity of their other equipment.

Realism in TrainingThe Fort Smith, AR, Fire Department finds success in LION’s GasTrainer system.

By Adrienne Zimmer, Firehouse Special Projects Editor


built. The ability to get into the suit with only a partner to zip you up and check your seal makes this realistic. Dramatically improved dexterity, hearing, vision and control allow members to make quick, decisive moves to effect life-saving actions. Through extensive training evaluations, we have found that members have a marked improvement in not only comfort but the duration of work time.

Training ideasWe would be remiss if we didn’t high-light a few methods, tips and tricks that you and your department could do to improve your abilities and train to be ready for a release.

Dexterity drills: While in a suit, have a member do “simple” tasks, such as using a key to open a lock—but there are 30 keys on the ring —or assembling a bolt, washer and nut configuration. Doing these drills can be done with only the arms sections if you can claim them from an old suit that is being disposed.

Communication: Although the MT94 suit makes conversation markedly more comfortable than being in a Level A suit, communication still is a competency that should be mastered. Our favorite drill is dividing the crew in two. The “incident command” crew has a radio, pencil and paper. The other team will be in full CPC PPE and have a radio and a drawing. While the PPE crew is in another room, they must describe the shapes and configuration to incident command. The objective is to have both papers look the same. Pro tip: If you do this for multiple crews from the same original drawing, you could award a prize for the best and worst.

Air consumption: This personal development drill, which serves to calm an operator who is in the suit and under stress, is the knowledge of how much air that an operator has in his/her cyl-inder. This drill can be paired with the communication drill. Note the pressure that’s in the cylinder and mark down the time. Begin the communications drill, and when the low-air alarm begins, not the time, continue the exercise. Eventu-ally, the alarm will stop. Note that time, too. Use the cylinder until the air stops. Use this information and check results

doing various activities, such as walking. It’s eye-opening how much time is in the cylinder, which serves to make the operator situationally aware of his/her equipment and body.

Logistics management: Where we operate usually isn’t where we park. We need to practice how to move the needs to the deeds. All of this can be done in any stage of PPE dress (or lack thereof). Give a scenario and have members col-laborate, find and move the equipment to a location that’s a short distance away. What typically is seen is that taking time to do this usually saves time in the long run. The goal is to be more efficient.

Emergency procedures: Although this topic currently is in a national debate (all of which is going in a positive direc-tion), we are beginning to discuss the possibility of hazmat rapid intervention teams (RIT)/firefighter assist and search teams (FAST). This ensemble is very well-suited for hazmat RIT. Although the

members who will be most affected by exposure will be at the point of release, the RIT team can be in visual distance, ready to act with the MT94 suit.

Another point of consideration (and in our opinion is a training gap), is that we all have practiced or conceptualized rescuing a member from a precarious position. How many of you have practiced being the victim? Do you believe that you can be more proactive in your evacua-tion? We aren’t saying that you should be ready to fail, but failing to prepare is preparing to fail. The time to come up with a plan isn’t when an incident occurs, but in training. n

ABOUT THE AUTHORSBobby Salvesen is a 23-year veteran of FDNY. He has been assigned to Hazmat Company 1 for the past eight years. Salvesen studied chemistry at New York Institute of Technology and at SUNY-Westbury.

Michael Monaco is an 18-year veteran of FDNY. He has been assigned to Hazmat Company 1 for the past 15 years. Monaco holds a bachelor's degree in biochem-istry. Salvesen and Monaco co-host “The Hazmat Guys” podcast.

Members gain proficiency and competency in their gear through regular training. LION

WWW.LIONPROTECTS.COM/GASTRAINER

Realistic HazMat Training Without the Risk.

Give trainees hands-on HazMat response training without the danger. LION HazMat Training tools include the GasTrainer™, which allows trainees to practice responding to Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) emergencies with a four-gas meter that detects simulated gas clouds created by GasSource emitters.


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