Newcastle leads in firefighter cancer monitoring initiative

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

In a significant development for firefighter health and safety, Newcastle has become the forefront of a pioneering cancer monitoring project.

This initiative, which involves testing 100 firefighters in Tyne and Wear, is part of a national health monitoring research project led by the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) in collaboration with the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan).

The need for regular health monitoring

Despite the increasing incidence and mortality rates of cancer and other diseases among firefighters, there is currently no regular health monitoring for firefighters in the UK.

This project aims to address this gap by providing valuable data on the health risks faced by firefighters.

Groundbreaking research in Newcastle

The project, which recommenced in Newcastle on 13th November, includes firefighters from across the North East.

The initial phase of this UK-wide research saw the participation of 15 firefighters in Newcastle in February.

The current phase is being led by Professor Anna Stec, a world expert in fire toxicity, and will continue until 15th November.

This research is groundbreaking, with over 1,000 UK firefighters having provided blood and urine samples for analysis.

These samples are being examined for biomarkers of cancers, other diseases, and toxic chemicals.

The goal is to detect these health issues at early stages and establish a link between occupational cancers and exposure to toxic fire chemicals.

Firefighter cancer: Alarming statistics

Recent studies have shown a startling 323% higher incidence of cancer among UK firefighters aged 35-39 compared to the general population of the same age group.

Additionally, firefighters face higher mortality rates from cancers, heart attacks, and strokes.

Call for action

Riccardo la Torre, FBU national officer, highlighted the UK’s lag in protecting firefighters from toxic contaminants and occupational cancers.

He urges the government and fire service employers to act swiftly to ensure early diagnosis and treatment for firefighters.

Wayne Anderson, FBU Tyne and Wear brigade secretary, expressed pride in the North East’s role in leading this vital research.

The project’s success so far underscores the need for regular health monitoring for every UK firefighter.

IFSJ Comment

The Newcastle firefighter cancer monitoring project marks a crucial step in understanding and mitigating the health risks faced by firefighters.

The initiative sheds light on the occupational hazards of firefighting and underscores the need for systemic change in health monitoring practices.

By providing early detection of cancers and other diseases, this research has the potential to save lives and improve the overall health of firefighters.

The collaboration between the Fire Brigades Union and the University of Central Lancashire represents a significant stride towards ensuring the well-being of those who risk their lives daily to protect others.

This project serves as a model for other regions and highlights the importance of proactive measures in occupational health.

Prince William endorses the Fire Fighters Charity’s new crisis line

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

Fire Fighters Charity introduces 24/7 crisis support line

The Fire Fighters Charity has officially launched a 24/7 crisis line to offer direct support to current and former fire service personnel struggling with suicidal thoughts.

This new helpline was unveiled at the Emergency Services Mental Health Symposium and aims to fill a critical gap in mental health support for emergency responders.

The Crisis Line, which can be reached at 0300 373 0896, received backing from HRH The Prince of Wales and The Royal Foundation, marking a significant development in mental health advocacy for firefighters.

HRH The Prince of Wales acknowledges the effort of emergency responders

During the symposium, a video message from His Royal Highness was broadcast, in which he acknowledged the significance of the crisis line and expressed gratitude for the continuous efforts of emergency responders.

He also praised the network of charities and services dedicated to supporting the emergency responder community.

Collaborative funding and suicide prevention resources

The launch follows the release of a set of online suicide prevention and postvention resources tailored for the fire services community.

The resources, available at the Fire Fighters Charity’s website, provide crucial information for individuals affected by suicide or those concerned about themselves or someone else.

Funding for the first year of the crisis line has been provided by the Blue Light Card Foundation, with subsequent support pledged by all fire and rescue services for two more years.

Dr Jill Tolfrey, the Chief Executive of The Fire Fighters Charity, along with Sharon Bailey, Director of Beneficiary Services, Joss Gaynor, Director of Health Improvement & Influencing, and other colleagues, participated in the symposium.

Sharon Bailey was involved in a panel discussion that addressed the complex issue of suicide within emergency services, covering topics from individual support to crisis intervention.

Furthermore, one of the Charity’s beneficiaries joined a family panel to address the challenges emergency responder families face and to identify practical solutions.

IFSJ Comment

In the face of increasing awareness of mental health issues among emergency service personnel, the Fire Fighters Charity’s launch of a 24/7 crisis line is a timely and crucial step in providing accessible support.

With the endorsement of Prince William and the involvement of a broad network of emergency service charities, the Charity has positioned itself as a pivotal resource for those in the firefighting community seeking help.

The collaborative approach, not only in funding but also in sharing experiences and strategies, demonstrates a unified front in tackling the often-overlooked issue of mental health in this sector.

Experts weigh in the reduction of firefighter cancer exposure

by Breaking NewsHealth and Safety

Research and best practices to reduce cancer exposure for fire fighters were discussed by scientists, fire industry leaders, and other key stakeholders at a two-day workshop in Ottawa, Ont. on Oct. 26-27.

The event saw participation from over 100 in-person and virtual attendees and was orchestrated by the IAFF in collaboration with Health Canada.

Firefighter cancer exposure: A growing concern

The workshop was initiated in response to the recent passing of Bill C-224. This bill introduces a national strategy for the prevention and treatment of cancers associated with firefighting.

Presentations covered a range of topics including on-site exposure limitation, the efficiency of personal protective equipment (PPE), and innovative designs in PPE.

Attendees participated in group discussions, breakout sessions, and formulated statements on harmonised strategies, best practices, and areas lacking information.

Key highlights and presentations

Kevin Rojecki from Puget Sound highlighted the magnitude of the exposure issue for those present.

Simultaneously, Kevin Tomyk from Vancouver shared insights on best practices to mitigate and rectify on-site exposures.

Another noteworthy presentation came from Dixon Phillips and John Schmidt from Pasco County, detailing their newly launched decontamination programme.

Collaborative efforts in reducing cancer risks

Neil McMillan, IAFF Director of Science and Research and co-organiser of the event, remarked on the workshop’s significance, commenting that partnering with Health Canada to bring academics and fire service stakeholders together to tackle the broad topic of occupational exposure enables the IAFF to better identify the health impacts its members experience, an important step toward reducing them.”

He also acknowledged the support from various Canadian Government officials and General President Edward Kelly.

Regarding the commitment to reduce cancer’s impact on fire fighters, he added: “The road to a safer and healthier tomorrow for our Canadian IAFF members is being paved through work being done by leaders like federal Health Minister Mark Holland, MP Sherry Romanado, and General President Kelly.”

Minister Holland, present during the event’s inauguration, shared the government’s perspective: “That’s why this is important, and that’s why our continued collaboration between fire fighters and Health Canada in understanding those risks, mitigating those risks, and reducing them to the greatest extent possible is so essential.

“In order for Canadians to be safe, we need fire fighters to be safe.”

Global recognition for Canada’s efforts

MP Sherry Romanado, who introduced Bill C-224, emphasised the international attention Canada is receiving. “Other countries are now looking at what the Canadian Government is doing to address occupational cancer in fire fighters,” she noted.

Expressing gratitude towards the ongoing efforts, she said: “I want to thank you because what you are doing today is groundbreaking.

“What we are going to be doing is saving lives, and there is no more meaningful work.”

IFSJ Comment

The proactive steps taken by the Canadian Government, in partnership with IAFF and Health Canada, underline the pressing need to address the risk of cancer in the fire fighting community.

The introduction of Bill C-224 and the collective efforts of experts, researchers, and industry leaders at the workshop reflect a commitment to ensuring the safety of fire fighters.

As these best practices and strategies are developed and implemented, they not only safeguard the health of those on the frontline but also set a commendable example for other nations to follow.

Many workers hesitant to reveal their neurodiversity to employers says IOSH

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

Businesses are being urged to cultivate an environment in which employees feel they can freely discuss their neurodiversity, based on recent findings by IOSH.

A new survey has shed light on the reluctance of neurodiverse workers to share their conditions with their superiors.

Key findings highlight neurodiversity concealment

Results indicate that over two-thirds of those with neurodiverse conditions have not informed their current employer of their status.

In contrast, fewer than one-third would choose to mention it during a job application process.

Ruth Wilkinson, who holds the position of Head of Policy at IOSH, stated: “The results of our survey are incredibly concerning.”

She highlighted the concerning fact that: “people feel they have to keep their neurodiverse conditions hidden.”

Awareness initiatives spotlight neurodiversity

It’s worth noting that one in every seven individuals is believed to be neurodiverse.

This includes conditions such as ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and dyspraxia.

October is significant for neurodiversity, with events like Dyslexia Awareness Week from 2-8 October, Dyspraxia Awareness Week between 9-15 October, and ADHD Awareness Month spanning the entire month.

IOSH utilised LinkedIn for two separate polls to understand the comfort level of individuals discussing their neurodiverse conditions at their workplace.

The data showed that 70% chose not to discuss their condition with their employer.

Furthermore, 72% were hesitant or would opt against declaring it on a job application.

Ruth further added: “It clearly demonstrates that businesses need to do more to drive positive and inclusive workplace cultures.”

She emphasised the importance of valuing workers and their talents: “having the right culture, leadership, and processes in place to support those who are neurodiverse… is important.”

IFSJ Comment

The findings from IOSH are a critical reminder for organisations worldwide.

Neurodiversity is an integral part of the human experience, with a significant proportion of the global population identifying as neurodiverse.

Recognising, understanding, and valuing these differences are essential for fostering inclusive and productive work environments.

Encouraging openness and reducing stigma around neurodiversity can lead to richer team dynamics, innovative problem solving, and improved wellbeing for all employees.

For the fire and safety industry, where diverse perspectives can greatly enhance problem-solving and risk management, it is especially crucial.

IAFF urges a comprehensive approach to tackle fire fighter cancer

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) is rallying stakeholders from various sectors to implement a holistic strategy aimed at curtailing the menace of fire fighter occupational cancer.

Fire fighter cancer: a growing concern

“All of us have lost friends to cancer,” General President Edward Kelly voiced at the 2023 US Fire Administrator’s Summit on Fire Prevention and Control last week.

“We need to do whatever it takes to end this menace within the fire service.”

Kelly emphasised the importance of immediate action and proposed a comprehensive fire fighter cancer prevention strategy.

This strategy would focus on investment in pivotal research programmes, particularly those that highlight the most significant cancer threats to fire fighters.

In addition, it will advocate for routine cancer screenings, further education, and training to better comprehend the heightened risks.

Uniformity in coverage and benefits

Kelly also discussed the discrepancies in cancer presumption coverage across US states and Canadian provinces.

He suggested a national presumption coverage for every fire fighter diagnosed with cancer.

Furthermore, the IAFF endorsed the augmentation of the Public Safety Officer Benefit (PSOB) Program.

This expansion would encompass line-of-duty deaths and lasting disabilities resulting from occupational cancer.

Stakeholder responses and commitments

The U.S. Fire Administrator’s Summit saw the participation of numerous fire service members, officials, and scholars.

It was conducted at the National Emergency Training Summit in Emmitsburg, Maryland. US President Joe Biden, addressing the attendees virtually, lauded the fire fighters, referring to them as: “the heart of the community.”

He emphasised the administration’s support for the fire service, citing:

  • $350 billion from the American Rescue Plan designated for first responders.
  • A 2023 budget request amounting to $320 million for federal grants to aid new recruitment and equipment procurement.
  • Support for various legislative measures, such as the presumptive cancer legislation and the Federal Firefighters Fairness Act.

Department of Homeland Security Secretary, Alejandro Mayorkas, highlighted the continuous challenges fire fighters face.

These include increasing forest fires, threats from lithium battery fires, and mental health challenges.

Mayorkas summarised: “The character of the fire fighter remains unwavering: brave, duty-bound, community-focused, and ever-ready to sacrifice.”

Call for self-advocacy

Amidst the support and pledges, Patrick Morrison, IAFF’s Chief of Field Services, stressed the importance of self-advocacy within the fire service.

He underscored that early cancer screenings could notably elevate survival rates.

He also encouraged fire fighters to register on the National Firefighter Registry for Cancer to advance research on fire fighter occupational cancer.

IFSJ Comment

The correlation between the fire service and cancer incidence demands immediate attention.

The firefighting community has persistently been at the frontline, ensuring our safety.

Their occupational hazards, however, put them at an elevated risk of health complications, especially cancer.

Comprehensive strategies, like the one proposed by the IAFF, not only recognise the grave issue but also provide actionable steps to address it.

Adequate funding, early detection through screening, and consistent research are critical components in this fight.

The community’s well-being is paramount, and such initiatives are a testament to that commitment.

Fire safety reforms highlighted by Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsHealth and SafetySafety

Starting from 1st October 2023, England will embrace novel fire safety guidelines, marking fresh duties for buildings and their owners.

This insight was provided by the Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management (IWFM) and is part of Phase 3 of the Home Office’s fire safety reform programme.

A deep dive into the new fire safety reforms

Central to the forthcoming reforms is Section 156 of the Building Safety Act 2022, which makes numerous alterations to the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

These changes aim to elevate fire safety standards in all regulated buildings throughout England and Wales.

Main changes ushered in by Phase 3

Responsible persons’ roles revamped

Per the Fire Safety Order, those designated as Responsible Persons will need to set up and strictly maintain appropriate systems for the planning, guidance, monitoring, and revision of a building’s fire safety protocols.

Additionally, there’s an emphasis on better collaboration and organisation among Responsible Persons in buildings with multiple stakeholders.

From the commencement of these reforms, it’s imperative for all Responsible Persons to chronicle fire risk evaluations.

Continuous mandated reporting introduced

The legislation introduces enhanced requirements for accumulating and disseminating fire safety data.

This ensures that vital safety data remains accessible throughout a building’s existence.

Streamlined enforcement for improved compliance

The fresh regulations simplify the process of prosecuting those who neglect fire safety standards.

Several penalties now come with no upper limits, paving the way for potentially unlimited fines.

This also encompasses penalties for new duties presented by these alterations.

Enhanced transparency for residents

It is now mandatory for the Responsible Person to inform occupants about potential fire threats in their buildings and the fire safety measures in place.

This is pertinent to residential structures housing two or more domestic units, such as apartment blocks.

A segment of Section 156 remains pending. This pertains to the necessity for Responsible Persons to confirm that any individual conducting or evaluating a risk assessment possesses the needed competence.

For a comprehensive understanding of these modifications, click here to visit the UK government’s resources.

IFSJ Comment

The revisions in fire safety regulations in England are a significant step towards ensuring that buildings are safer and better equipped to handle potential fire hazards.

The fact that the laws now stress the accountability of Responsible Persons and introduce continuous reporting underscores the importance of constant vigilance in this domain.

The move to increase transparency and keep residents informed is also commendable, fostering a culture of collective responsibility.

In essence, these changes reflect a holistic approach to fire safety, taking into account both the physical infrastructure and the people within.

Firefighters in West Midlands participate in vital cancer testing research

by Breaking NewsHealth and Safety

Fire Brigades Union spearheads groundbreaking cancer testing project

West Midlands firefighters are now undergoing tests for cancer and other health issues.

This initiative is a part of a comprehensive firefighter health monitoring research project across the UK.

The research has been commissioned by the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) and is being executed by the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan).

UK firefighters exposed to increased risk of occupational cancer

Currently, there is no regular monitoring provided for firefighters in the UK despite the clear risks associated with their profession.

Recent studies have shown a concerning trend: the incidence of cancer among UK firefighters aged 35-39 is significantly higher compared to the general population within the same age group.

Specifically, firefighters have a 3.8 times higher likelihood of developing prostate cancer, 3.17 times for leukaemia, and 2.42 times for oesophageal cancer.

This alarming data comes after the World Health Organisation declared occupational exposure for firefighters as carcinogenic.

Firefighters contribute to early detection and prevention

Over a hundred firefighters are participating in this new initiative.

They are providing essential blood and urine samples for testing at the University of Central Lancashire.

The aim is to detect any early signs of cancers or other diseases, as well as to find evidence connecting occupational cancers with exposure to toxic fire chemicals.

Riccardo La Torre, Fire Brigades Union’s national officer, stated: “This research is a vital part of our campaign to protect firefighters from cancer and other occupational diseases.”

He added: “It is shocking that firefighters have had to fund this cancer testing themselves through their union.”

He further lamented the fact that the West Midlands Fire Service declined the opportunity to support the project.

Instead, the testing is being conducted at a football ground, due to the Chief Fire Officer’s lack of full support for the research.

Billy Holland, FBU’s regional secretary for the West Midlands, highlighted: “Every firefighter taking part in this groundbreaking research in the West Midlands should be proud of their contribution to making the profession safer.”

He further commented on the broader picture: “The UK is decades behind the rest of the world when it comes to protecting firefighters from contaminants in fire.”

IFSJ Comment

The recent initiative to conduct cancer testing for firefighters in West Midlands is a significant step forward for the safety and well-being of these brave individuals.

The alarming statistics surrounding the heightened risk firefighters face emphasise the need for such research projects.

Not only does this help in early detection, but it also aids in understanding the direct impact of occupational hazards on firefighters.

The Fire Brigades Union’s commitment to protecting their members, coupled with the University of Central Lancashire’s expertise, is paving the way for future preventative measures.

It’s crucial for other regions to observe and learn from this model to ensure the health of firefighters everywhere.

NFPA launches updated Steps to Safety program for older adults’ home safety

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetySafety

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has unveiled their revamped program aimed at educating older adults about fire and fall safety in the home.

This new initiative, titled “Steps to Safety,” is set to replace the “Remembering When” program, which had been NFPA’s flagship fire and fall prevention curriculum for seniors for the past 25 years.

Changes in the modern landscape

Steps to Safety, similar to its predecessor, centralises its messages around reducing risks associated with falls and fires for the elderly.

However, this newly introduced program takes into account the recent shifts in social, technological, and physical environments.

Addressing the needs of an aging population

According to Andrea Vastis, Senior Director of Public Education at NFPA: “As the nation’s aging population continues to grow, more people are living longer and, in many cases, living independently.”

The updated program strives to reach the elderly in effective ways, “offering solutions that promote healthy aging while reducing the strain on fire departments, EMS services, and the healthcare system.”

Rising risks with age

Statistics show that by the age of 65, elderly individuals have twice the likelihood of facing injury or death due to fires compared to the rest of the population.

This risk increases even further with age.

Additionally, one in three older adults will experience a fall annually, which translates to a significant number requiring emergency care.

Presently, fire services attend more calls for falls among seniors than actual fires.

Features of Steps to Safety

Designed in collaboration with safety experts from the US and Canada, Steps to Safety delivers 16 crucial safety messages.

Half of these messages are dedicated to fire prevention, and the other half to fall prevention.

These messages will be communicated to communities through group presentations, home visits, and the establishment of a resource network.

The program also incorporates an online training curriculum and offers new digital and print materials to encourage consistent learning and behavioural changes throughout the later stages of life.

Localised implementation

The program’s effectiveness lies in its adaptability, allowing local organisations such as fire departments, health agencies, and community groups to tailor the messages according to their region’s needs.

By pooling resources and data, these organisations can determine the best methods to address the safety concerns of their senior populations.

This could range from installing smoke alarms, introducing lock box programs, or other additional services.

Andrea Vastis further emphasised the importance of collaboration, saying: “The approach is one of collaboration, engagement, empowerment, and promoting independence.”

IFSJ Comment

The NFPA’s introduction of the updated Steps to Safety program showcases a timely response to the evolving challenges faced by an aging population.

With the rise of seniors living independently and the inherent risks they face, the need for a comprehensive, adaptable safety program is paramount.

This initiative not only serves to protect older adults but also seeks to lessen the pressure on emergency services.

By collaborating with local organisations and focusing on community engagement, the NFPA aims to make significant strides in fire and fall prevention, leading to safer living environments for seniors everywhere.

Moral injury: The unspoken struggle

by AmericasAmericas - Breaking NewsBreaking NewsHealth and SafetyIFSJ Exclusives

Jeff Dill, founder of Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance, sheds light on the growing concern of Moral Injury among firefighters and EMS workers

Let me clarify from the start. I know Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a real issue.

Within my thirty years in the fire service I have seen our brothers and sisters struggle with it for years.

The point of this article is to state my belief that Moral Injury might be just as prevalent or even greater than PTSD for first responders.

As founder of Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance (FBHA) we have been keeping data on firefighter, EMS and dispatcher suicides.

The tracking and validating has currently given us a number of 1,920* losses of our brothers and sisters to suicide.

This number unfortunately, changes weekly as new reports our sent to us.

I am a retired fire captain, licensed counselor and currently the Behavioral Health Administrator for a large fire department in the West.

I have travelled over a million miles speaking on behavioral health and suicide but no by no way am I an expert – this subject matter is so difficult to understand.

When we started talking about PTSD in 2010 we took a hit from so many saying “PTSD is a military issue” or “You are making up the numbers of suicides”.

Now, in 2023, we know differently don’t we?

I am now stating and believing that Moral Injury is a term we need to know and train on.

Not only our people, but chaplains and clinicians as well.

So what is Moral Injury?

According to Dr. Jonathan Shay, who is credited as naming Moral Injury, describes it as “a betrayal of what’s right, by someone who holds legitimate authority, in a high stakes situation.” 

Dr. Brett Litz, of Boston University, and creator of the Moral Injury Outcome Scale (MIOS), defines moral injury as “perpetrating, failing to prevent, bearing witness to, or learning about acts that transgress deeply held moral beliefs and expectations.”

In my words, it is the belief we are born to do good, to help others.

Then we are trained in the fire and EMS world to save lives.

Unfortunately, our percentages of saving lives is very low due to the nature of our victims injuries or medical emergency.

This begins to lead to emotional feelings of failure to do good, shame, guilt, lack of confidence and other emotional impacts upon our morals.

One large aspect of Moral Injury is betrayal.

Betrayal by management, others or even ourselves.

When Moral injury was brought to my attention by two firefighters I work with.

I advised them I had heard of Moral Injury but there was not an emphasis on it due too Moral Injury is not a diagnosis you will find in the Diagnostics and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5 (DSM-IV).

After doing research on the subject I felt it was worthy of a White Paper.

With the help of two very good friends, Dr. Elizabeth Anderson Fletcher and Chaplain Mark Schimmelpfennig we produced Wounds of the Spirit: Moral Injury in Firefighters.

The main connection for me emerged when examining the aspect of betrayal within Moral Injury, and the number one reason identified in FBHA’s data for why people are taking their own lives.

When FBHA validates a suicide, it is done by me personally speaking to a Chief officer or a family member that contacts us.

Of the 1,920 documented suicides I have spoken to approximately 1,880 people to validate the data.

The number one reason is Unknown.

They just don’t know why they killed themselves.

The Number One Known reason is Relationships.

This can be either personal or work relationships.

PTSD is fear or trauma based whereas Moral Injury is an attack on our emotions.

The heart of makes us perform this difficult task in the first responder world.

One can struggle with both PTSD and Moral Injury.

The problem comes from the treatment aspect.

If a brother is sister is being treated for PTSD but not on Moral Injury then our member will struggle still especially to the point of suicide.

FBHA sees this in our data.

We have seen at least 40 of our brothers and sisters who went into in-patient treatment centers for PTSD, Addictions or Depression.

Yet, when they were released, they still took their lives.

Speculation only, but could they have been suffering from Moral Injury but it was not addressed?

We will never know. That is the point of this article: for treatment centres and clinicians to keep Moral Injury in their mind when working with their client.

Our second White Paper will address the treatment modalities of Moral Injury.

Moral injury reminds us that we are still humans first.

We suffer when we see others suffer.

Talking is our greatest gift to ourselves.

Do not bury what burdens you. The process of forgiveness for ourselves is a key factor for treating Moral Injury.

Remember, we are doing great work but we will never have the final decisions on who is to live and die.

All we can do is rely on our training and our compassion to help others. We need to always keep in mind the greatest life you can save is your own.

Seek help, listen to others when they have noticed changes.

Listen to your body when it tells you that you are hurting, you need sleep, work on reducing your stress and anxiety.

Coping skills

Internal Size-Up: Ask yourself two questions every day

  • Why am I feeling this way?
  • Why am I acting this way?

Listen to others, they see you better than you see yourself.

With Internal Size-up, begin working this with your support person.

Whether it is a spouse, partner, child, family member or friend.

At the end of the night build your communications by discussing “what emotions did I display?”, “how did it effect you?” and “what steps can I take to avoid these future behaviours?”

Opening up builds a bond with your loved ones.

It is has always been my belief at FBHA that I want you to have a great career but we want you to have a better retirement.

A retirement you can share with loved ones for many, many years.

This article was originally published in the September 2023 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

*Figure at time of article publication

Decontamination innovation

by Breaking NewsHealth and SafetyIFSJ Exclusives

Exploring De-Wipe’s ongoing research and product development that are enhancing decontamination practices in the fire safety industry

Decontamination has never been more vital in the fire sector.

Recent studies have shed light on the alarming risk of cancer among firefighters due to exposure to harmful carcinogens and bacteria found in fires.

The need for quick, effective, and eco-friendly decontamination has led to a renewed focus on innovative solutions.

De-Wipe is at the forefront of this fight, creating scientifically formulated products that not only remove contamination risks but are also 100% biodegradable and cruelty-free.

IFSJ Editor Iain Hoey sat down with Jo Taylor, Director of De-Wipe, to discuss the importance of decontamination.

Why is decontamination a focus for the fire sector?

Decontamination has become a focal point in the fire sector due to growing awareness of the risks associated with carcinogens present in fire situations.

There have been many studies, such as the one conducted by the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) in 2018, in collaboration with the Fire Brigades Union, that have demonstrated the risk of skin absorption of carcinogens during a fire.

We conducted our own study with a doctor from Manchester Metropolitan University, who had already spent eight years investigating this issue in the USA.

With over 50 worldwide studies that have arrived at the same conclusions, the evidence underscores the very real risks from hazards, leading us to see the importance of addressing these concerns.

It’s great to see the UK Fire and Rescue Services are starting to take this research into account.

What range of decontamination products are on offer from De-Wipe?

Our product range is comprehensive and tailored to various needs.

We offer wipes suitable for hands, face, and other body parts in two sizes: an extra-large single wipe and a large wipe.

The large wipe is also available in a 40-pack flow pack, a popular choice for many, while the single packs are convenient for fire investigators and officers at the scene.

Additionally, we provide equipment wipes that have been tested on major brands like FLIR, Drager, and MSA, targeting the prevention of cross-contamination.

Cleaning is vital, and handling contaminated equipment can transfer toxins back onto your hands.

The growing awareness of cross-contamination is something that we’re addressing with these products.

Our hair and body wash, scientifically proven to remove toxins, has the unexpected yet revolutionary benefit of eliminating the smell of smoke.

This was an unintended outcome, but we’ve received feedback from firefighters that after just one wash, the smoke odour was gone.

This has even led to some firefighters’ partners questioning whether they’d been to work since they come home smelling so fresh.

Finally, we’ve introduced dispensers that complement the hair and body wash.

These can be installed in showers or shower cubicles, making the washing process more convenient and efficient.

Do you have any new decontamination products on offer?

We are currently trialling an equipment wash aimed at cleaning heavily contaminated items like thermal imaging cameras and breathing apparatus.

We’ve been testing it within the construction industry, particularly with companies that clean and hire out breathing apparatus, and the response has been very positive.

This equipment wash will soon be available.

Additionally, we are in the development stages of a laundry wash that can be used both at home and within fire service stations, further expanding our decontamination offerings.

Why is being eco-friendly and derma-approved important to you?

Since our inception, we’ve been committed to sustainability, leading the post-fire decontamination market with a strong environmental consciousness.

We offer the world’s only biodegradable, derma-approved, and alcohol-free product in this space, and we intend to continue this ethical approach with any new products we develop.

Our offerings are not just scientifically and dermatologically tested to be kind to skin, but also environmentally friendly and safe to use on all equipment.

We’ve been certified as derma-approved, showcasing our dedication to values that align with the needs and desires of our customers.

How do you work with manufacturers to ensure efficacy?

Ensuring efficacy in our products begins with rigorous testing. We initially tested the De-Wipes on materials such as EPDM, silicones, composite plastics, carbon fibre, glass, and Perspex to confirm that they were effective without degrading these materials.

We commissioned a scientific study and worked closely with leading manufacturers, providing them with our products for their independent testing and due diligence. The results have been positive.

Not only do our products reduce the risk of cross-contamination, but they also prevent the degradation and damage of expensive operational equipment.

This was initially a significant concern, as substances like alcohol can degrade plastic and rubber over time.

Our carefully formulated products circumvent this issue, ensuring that costly equipment remains functional and intact.

Finally, what’s next for De-Wipe?

De-Wipe is committed to ongoing research and the development of new products, combined with educational initiatives that set us apart.

While we are continually educating, we’re also selling and evolving our product range.

Currently, we are engaged in two significant initiatives.

The first one, a collaboration with Motorola, marks a pivotal milestone for us, having received their endorsement as a global equipment cleaner.

This alliance signifies not only a validation of our product but a promising avenue for future growth.

The second initiative is a partnership in the aviation and airport sector, the details of which are yet to be unveiled.

What we can say is that it promises to be an exciting advancement in the field of decontamination, aligning with our vision of innovation and excellence.

This article was originally published in the September 2023 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.