PPE progress: The new essentials from FlamePro

by Breaking NewsPPE

FlamePro Global’s Jack Griffin, Technical Sales Manager, talks about the critical role PPE plays in addressing fire services’ evolving challenges, from heat stress to diversity and budget concerns

Could you provide a brief overview of FlamePro and the types of PPE you specialise in?

FlamePro are a UK based, global supplier of high quality, lightweight PPE for firefighters.

We have an inhouse design and development team as well as inhouse European manufacturing which means that we can deliver our garments to firefighting services and brigades in around half the time it takes our competitors.

We specialise in light weight breathable garments with superior ergonomics and comfort levels that are design engineered to specific risks faced by todays firefighters.

Our range consists of specific garments for Structural, Wildfire, Technical Rescue and HVP work, all of which have very different requirements for both safety and comfort.

What do you see as the most critical challenges faced by firefighters today?

When talking to our customers there are many different challenges that they face but the four main ones that are repeatedly brought to us are, Contaminants, Heat Stress, Diversity and Budget.

Contaminants is an issue that has been growing in prominence due to the now proven increased risk of cancers and illness to firefighters exposed to carcinogens and chemical while on duty.

FlamePro developed to the market particulate hoods that protect again 99% of particulates while remaining light weight and breathable.

We also offer within the UK a comprehensive care and maintenance package which includes cleaning and decontamination of garments, we are currently working on deploying this scheme globally with localised partners.

Heat stress has been a priority for firefighters for a long time and the complexity of providing enough protection to keep a firefighter safe while not being to heavy has been an ongoing challenge.

This is why we are committed to developing PPE that is be light weight and breathable and to incorporate garments fit of each individual role within the fire services.

Structural garments with added layers and protection against heat and flame for short sharp bursts of use.

Wildland kit in a protective single layer that is lighter and fit for use over long drawn out calls.

Our Technical Rescue and HVP kits are also specifically designed to protect from the specific risks without the additional layers required for Structural work which are not necessary for alternative tasks and increase the risk of heat stress when worn unnecessarily.

To ensure that each firefighter has correctly sized kit regardless of gender, body type and size, we have expanded our range to include 96 sizes as standard across two different fits, these are not classed as male and female as some different body types and shapes fit better into each size.

We also provide out sizes and bespoke sizes in the unlikely event that a firefighter doesn’t fit into one of the 96 standard options.

The specific use PP E that we have in our range also helps to address the budget issues.

Specific use garments are cheaper than structural and tend to last for between 50-100 washes as opposed to 40 for structural garments, so the cost saving they bring when deployed correctly can be immense.

What advanced technologies or features has FlamePro integrated into its firefighter PPE?

Not all innovations are great leaps in technology.

Some of our biggest innovations are in the smallest details that our design team apply to increase movement and make the garments lighter and more comfortable.

Ensuring they work with the firefighter rather than against them as garments have done historically.

For example the 7 panel sleeves in our Valiant kit that don’t ride up or stretch when climbing and 3D-spacer reinforced shoulder and back areas to reduce the risk of compression injuries and steam burns when battling ferocious heat.

The biggest innovation though would arguably be the focus on the size range and specific use garments.

 From my military experience, ill-fitting or uncomfortable PPE can distract from making life-saving decisions.

Often, it’s the little things that make big differences and that’s where we specialise.

How do you work with fire brigades to tailor equipment to their specific needs?

Our approach is multifaceted depending on where we and the customer are within the design process.

For new products we work very closely with the fire services to fully understand their requirements and challenges and our design team base all of their work around aligning a new garment to these challenges and the required certifications to keep the fire fighters safe.

This work will range all the way from focus groups to in-depth wearer trials, with feedback taken and amendments and refinements made at every point until the perfect garment is achieved before going into production.

For a fire service purchasing a garment already on the market they may have a slight alteration that they wish to make, maybe a different pocket size or an additional radio loop and out design team will work with them to make sure the garment is fully fit for their needs before they order.

How does FlamePro manage to balance rapid delivery with maintaining high product quality?

Fire services are not protected when they are stuck waiting 6 months for their kit with deadlines being repeatedly missed, as is the case with many of our competitors.

We believe that this is totally unacceptable.

That is why two and a half years ago, we brought our own in-house manufacturing facility in Europe, giving us full control of our supply chain and allowing us to manufacture and deliver garments globally withing 8-12 weeks.

Owning our own facility means we’re able to adjust production slots to meet customers’ needs, being fluid and flexible and ensuring that we always remain on track.

So far in the first 10 months of 2024 we have delivered on time in full over 99% of our orders.

We are also fully transparent with our customers providing an agreed upon timeline for every part of their order so that they know what is happening at every stage and eliminating any surprises from the word go.

This document in then the steer for every meeting and discussion internally and externally throughout the sizing, production and delivery process to ensure no deviation.

What emerging technologies or industry trends do you think will most impact the development of firefighter PPE?

We know that on the collaborative next year, there will be a structural lot and a lightweight lot.

The lightweight lot targets the 93% of tasks – technical rescue, wildfire, high-volume pumping.

We’ve introduced, based on focus groups and discussions, a brand new hybrid garment covering 93% of call-outs: a technical rescue tunic and trouser with a removable membrane or liner for wildfire tasks.

Existing technical rescue jackets may be wildfire-rated but lack removable membranes, which is impractical in certain conditions.

Our solution allows the membrane to be removed or reattached as needed, addressing heat stress and budget concerns, being two-thirds the cost of structural uniforms and preserving their life.

It also maintains the diversity piece with 96 sizes across two fits.

The PPE industry as a whole needs to focus on understanding the environments firefighters are in and providing fit for purpose PPE, addressing heat stress and budgets by using the right PPE in the right instances, reducing washing and condemning issues.

Ensuring enough sizes and offering bespoke options when necessary is important.

We have looked at improved tracking and tracing of garments via smart technology and believe that this will be something that the market will see a rise of in the near future too.

We also believe that sustainability will continue to be a pressure that builds for suppliers and the fire services about, addressing environmental issues with projects such as our RECYCLE programme will be of vital importance when awarding and winning contracts.

These are our thoughts on the four pillars—the most critical challenges faced by firefighters.

Other suppliers may think differently, but as suppliers, we have a duty of care to address these issues with every PPE item we bring to market.

Ultimately, this will set apart suppliers who want to improve and be at the forefront from those who don’t.

This article was originally published in the November 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Precision drying for PPE with PODAB

by Breaking NewsPPESafety

Jimmy Nilsson, CEO of PODAB, examines the challenges and innovations in developing drying cabinets for fire brigades to meet safety and efficiency demands

Can you tell us about your background and your journey to becoming the CEO of PODAB?

My journey started back at university.

My group and I wrote our final paper, not specifically about drying cabinets as a standalone product, but about how we could change the business model for PODAB.

After that, the current CEO at the time, who was also the owner, hired me as a business developer.

I stayed in that role for about three or four years.

Then he asked if I could step in as CEO.

I didn’t dream of laundry machines, drying cabinets, or tumblers when I was a kid, but it’s a really enjoyable industry to work in.

You build long-term relationships with customers and suppliers and there’s even a friendly atmosphere between competitors.

That’s something I really appreciate.

You can be competitors, but you still need to treat each other with respect.

What is PODAB’s overarching mission and how does the development of drying cabinets for protective garments align with this mission?

Based in Sweden, we cover everything related to laundry.

We distribute Alliance Laundry Systems and Schulthess machines, a Swiss brand, for the Swedish market.

Internationally, we produce and sell our own drying cabinets.

PODAB’s overarching mission is rooted in commitment, competence, innovation and sustainability.

The development of our drying cabinets fits this mission perfectly, especially with sustainability and innovation, as it’s still a young market and product that continues to evolve.

This aligns well with specific niches, like fire brigades, where protective gear needs to be dried efficiently.

We started developing drying cabinets for protective gear after being approached by a part of the French fire brigade.

They wanted a more efficient way to dry their protective clothing.

Back then, no one was talking about the cancer risks that we are more aware of today.

They simply wanted to take better care of their uniforms and asked if we could develop a faster drying solution.

So, we sat down, discussed it and realised the key to drying gear efficiently was to dry it from the inside out, especially since these garments are designed to repel both heat and moisture.

In 1997, we developed the first dual heating system for drying cabinets.

At that time, drying cabinets were relatively unknown in many countries, though they were commonly used in Sweden, Finland and France.

In Sweden and Finland, we even use them domestically, not just in professional settings, because we prefer to hang dry clothes.

That’s how we ended up creating a specialised drying cabinet for fire brigades.

Why is decontamination of protective garments such a critical issue for firefighters?

First, it’s crucial to wash the gear to remove oils and contaminants, but then you also need an effective way to dry them.

The increased risk of cancer for firefighters was first widely addressed by a Swedish organisation called Healthy Firefighters.

They quickly realised that using a tumble dryer would wear out the protective gear much faster, so a drying cabinet became the better option.

If you’re washing and drying clothes frequently, as Healthy Firefighters recommends — after every single exposure to smoke — our drying cabinets became essential for following that process.

While the washing process removes most of the harmful substances, the drying process also plays a role.

It can help eliminate some bacteria and it strengthens the fabric in a way.

For instance, we have a feature called a “Layer 3 impregnation phase,” where the temperature in the drying cabinet is raised to about 87 degrees Celsius.

For instance, we have a feature called a “Layer 3 impregnation phase,” where the temperature in the drying cabinet is raised to about 87 degrees Celsius.

If you’ve added impregnation during the wash cycle, this phase helps repel water but also keeps dangerous substances from penetrating the protective textiles.

What specific technologies or processes are incorporated in your drying programs to reduce wear and tear on protective textiles?

Wear and tear on protective gear can be caused by several factors, with temperature being one of them.

The most harmful part of the drying process is the mechanical action that happens in a drying tumbler.

In a tumbler, the clothes are constantly moving and rubbing against each other, which causes friction.

In a drying cabinet, the clothes hang still, so there’s no mechanical action at all.

This makes a big difference in reducing wear and tear.

You can measure the difference with a test called the “polka dot test.” While protective gear is heavy-duty and more resistant to wear, lighter materials, like silk, can be destroyed quickly in a tumbler.

The same principle applies to heavy-duty gear — elements like Velcro and reflective strips can degrade in a tumbler, but this doesn’t happen in a drying cabinet.

At PODAB, we were the first to introduce a dual heating system, which dries the gear from both the inside and outside.

This is crucial because, without drying from the inside, certain areas of protective gear can remain damp.

You could flip the garments inside out to dry them, but that’s a heavy, manual process, especially when the gear is wet straight from the wash.

Our system eliminates the need for that extra step, making the drying process much more efficient and gentle on the gear.

What were some of the key challenges in developing these advanced drying cabinets?

The story goes back to 1997 when the French fire brigade asked us to find the most efficient way to hang dry protective gear.

We realised that to dry the gear effectively, we needed to pay close attention to how the textiles were arranged.

If you used a regular hanger, the clothes could touch each other, making it harder to dry them properly.

So, we designed a fixed six-hanger system with a dual heating feature.

This system blows hot air into the garments through the hangers themselves.

That’s how we developed the first drying cabinet for protective gear.

Back then, no one was talking about the harmful substances or cancer risks like we do today.

It was simply about finding the most effective way to dry the gear, and the technology has evolved from there.

I’m not sure what generation we’re on now, but the product has certainly developed over the years.

At the time, the drying cabinets were quite basic.

We had just two programs and used overpressure, meaning we pumped so much air into the cabinet that we had to lock the doors to keep them from flying open.

Nowadays, we use underpressure, which allows us to control the airflow in a more efficient way.

We also constantly measure the moisture levels in the air to ensure the gear dries evenly.

The early models were much less efficient and inconsistent when it came to determining whether the clothes were fully dry.

Today, the cabinet’s computer manages the process, making it far more precise.

The shift from overpressure to underpressure has been one of the biggest changes.

It reduces the energy needed to run the drying cabinet and provides a more accurate drying process.

How has the market responded to your drying cabinets?

I’d say it all started with Healthy Firefighters, but now, country by country, research is being done and everyone’s becoming aware of the increased cancer risk for firefighters.

What’s really striking is that firefighters are generally healthier than the average person when they start, but within a year or two their cancer risk increases dramatically.

This awareness has spread globally and the demand for solutions that allow fire departments to handle their own laundry has grown day by day.

We went from being almost the only company in Europe offering this type of drying solution—along with some competition from the US.—to now seeing nearly everyone working on some kind of laundry solution like our drying cabinets.

But we view competition as a positive thing.

It helps spread the message about the need for this kind of product.

As long as we stay ahead with new ideas and advancements, we’re confident that we have the best solution for drying firefighter gear.

Are there any upcoming innovations or developments in the pipeline for PODAB’s drying solutions?

We’re in the process of developing the next generation of drying cabinets, with a strong focus on enhancing both flexibility and safety.

As we work to make our systems more adaptable to the evolving needs of different regions, we’re also refining precise temperature control, allowing users to safely dry a wider variety of equipment, from standard gear to more specialized items.

Firefighter safety is a priority for us, and we’re committed to designing solutions that contribute to a safer and healthier working environment.

Though we can’t reveal everything just yet, safety remains a key driver in our development process as we strive to meet the needs of firefighters worldwide.

This article was originally published in the September 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Firefighter PPE decontamination stressed at 2024 Urban Fire Forum due to lithium-ion battery fire risks

by Featured NewsPPESafety

Lithium-ion battery fires and associated risks

As reported by CTIF, the 2024 Urban Fire Forum (UFF) position statement highlights the increasing danger posed by lithium-ion battery (LIB) fires.

With the global reliance on energy storage systems growing, LIB fires are becoming more frequent.

The fires produce harmful contaminants, including hydrogen fluoride, heavy metals, and a variety of toxic gases.

While firefighters’ Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) offers some protection, these chemicals can persist on the gear, leading to long-term exposure risks.

The UFF position statement underscores the need for improved decontamination methods.

LIB fires create hazardous conditions where standard cleaning may be insufficient to remove persistent contaminants from firefighter PPE, raising safety concerns for those exposed.

Decontamination procedures for firefighter safety

The UFF recommends a combination of advanced and specialised decontamination procedures to address the contaminants produced by LIB fires.

Routine cleaning, though essential, may not fully eliminate the risks posed by chemicals that persist on PPE.

The report suggests the use of CO2 dry cleaning or enhanced advanced cleaning methods, depending on the level of contamination.

A step-by-step decision-making approach is recommended to determine whether routine, advanced, or specialised cleaning is necessary.

Factors to consider include the fire environment, firefighter exposure, and the severity of contamination.

The importance of ongoing research and standards development

The UFF position statement calls for ongoing research and technological advancements in cleaning systems for firefighter PPE.

High-performance cleaning systems, such as enhanced CO2 dry cleaning, are highlighted as more effective but are currently limited in accessibility.

The UFF suggests that grants or regional cleaning facilities could help broaden the availability of these technologies across fire departments.

The position statement also encourages active participation in the development of National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes and standards to ensure that firefighter PPE decontamination processes are updated in line with emerging risks.

Recommendations for fire departments

Fire departments are urged to assess the contamination levels in their PPE after LIB fire incidents and adopt enhanced cleaning technologies where appropriate.

The UFF advises that preliminary decontamination on the scene should be followed by advanced cleaning methods to limit firefighters’ exposure to persistent contaminants.

Furthermore, the report highlights the importance of collaboration among fire departments to share best practices and lessons learned from handling LIB fire contamination.

Some fire departments have already found that routine cleaning may not fully remove certain contaminants, necessitating specialized approaches.

Firefighter PPE decontamination stressed at 2024 Urban Fire Forum due to lithium-ion battery fire risks: Summary

The 2024 Urban Fire Forum’s position statement emphasises the growing concern over lithium-ion battery (LIB) fires and their impact on firefighter safety.

These fires release harmful contaminants that can persist on PPE, posing long-term exposure risks.

The statement calls for enhanced decontamination methods, including advanced cleaning technologies like CO2 dry cleaning, to address these hazards.

Fire departments are encouraged to implement rigorous cleaning processes and consider participating in ongoing research and standards development.

The UFF also highlights the need for broader access to high-performance cleaning systems, potentially through grants or regional facilities, to ensure that firefighters’ gear is properly decontaminated following exposure to LIB fires.

New BLACK EAGLE safety pro mid launched in UK by HAIX

by Featured NewsPPE

HAIX releases new safety boot designed for UK workforce

HAIX has launched the BLACK EAGLE SAFETY PRO MID, a new work boot designed for maximum safety and comfort for workers.

This launch introduces a highly durable yet lightweight boot featuring a cut and abrasion-resistant upper material.

The company has built upon its reputation for creating functional footwear by incorporating new features into the BLACK EAGLE SAFETY PRO MID.

As reported by HAIX, this boot is aimed at a wide range of professions, including construction, landscaping, and gardening.

Enhanced safety features and comfort

The BLACK EAGLE SAFETY PRO MID offers safety and comfort, combining a lightweight composite toe cap and textile puncture protection.

The boot is designed with breathability in mind, using an antistatic material and providing a cushioned, moisture-repellent insole.

Simon Ash, UK & Ireland Sales Manager at HAIX, said: “The HAIX BLACK EAGLE SAFETY PRO is the perfect all-rounder for everyday work—whether on construction sites or in landscaping and gardening.

“The upper textile used is extremely robust, even cut-resistant, whilst also being flexible and breathable.”

Adaptability to different working environments

The outsole of the BLACK EAGLE SAFETY PRO MID has been engineered for slip resistance, allowing the boot to perform on different terrains.

Its midsole, equipped with composite puncture resistance, provides shock absorption and protection from sharp objects, adding an extra layer of safety for the user.

The footwear is also designed to maintain comfort across varying working conditions.

With its adjustable width options and moisture-repellent properties, workers can adapt the boot to suit their individual needs.

GORE-TEX technology for all-weather protection

HAIX has incorporated the GORE-TEX membrane in this latest model, which ensures feet stay dry even in wet environments.

This, combined with the mid-height upper material, offers additional stability and protection for those working outdoors in the UK.

This boot is positioned as a reliable choice for individuals needing protective and comfortable footwear that withstands tough working conditions.

New BLACK EAGLE safety pro mid launched in UK by HAIX: Summary

HAIX has introduced the BLACK EAGLE SAFETY PRO MID in the UK.

This new boot offers high-level safety and comfort for workers in construction, landscaping, and similar professions.

With its lightweight composite toe cap, slip-resistant outsole, and textile puncture protection, the boot is designed to withstand various environments.

The use of GORE-TEX technology ensures the footwear remains dry in wet conditions, while the mid-height upper provides extra stability.

The footwear also includes options for adjustable width and a cushioned insole for added comfort.

Hainsworth’s ECO-DRY PPE fabric offers greater breathability for wildland firefighters in the UK

by Featured NewsPPEProducts

ECO-DRY fabric outperforms meta-aramid in breathability tests

As reported by Hainsworth Protective Fabrics, the ECO-DRY PPE fabric has demonstrated a 17% increase in breathability compared to a 100% meta-aramid blend.

The fabric underwent Thermal Evaporative Resistance (RET) testing by an accredited independent test house.

RET testing measures moisture vapour transfer and breathability, with lower values indicating higher breathability.

ECO-DRY’s improved moisture management makes it more effective for wildland firefighting applications.

Advanced wicking properties enhance firefighter comfort and safety

Further testing at James Heal in Halifax utilised WickView equipment to assess liquid transfer through the fabric.

The ECO-DRY fabric showed excellent wicking properties, allowing sweat to move away from the skin and through the fabric.

In contrast, the meta-aramid fabric did not permit any liquid to pass through, resulting in poorer moisture management.

Effective wicking helps prevent heat exhaustion by maintaining a manageable body temperature for firefighters.

Hainsworth’s innovative PPE supports UK wildland firefighting demands

With the increase in wildfires, the need for protective clothing that withstands extreme conditions while ensuring comfort is critical.

ECO-DRY fabric addresses this by offering superior breathability and moisture management.

Martin Haworth, Hainsworth Protective Fabrics Technical Manager, explained: “ECO-DRY fabric combines the natural properties of Merino Wool with advanced flame-retardant fibres, creating a material that meets and exceeds the rigorous demands of wildland firefighting.

“The integration of Merino Wool offers superior moisture management and breathability, crucial for maintaining core body temperature during intense physical activity.

“In addition, the fabric’s ability to wick moisture away from the skin ensures that firefighters remain dry and comfortable, reducing the likelihood of heat exhaustion.”

Hainsworth Protective Fabrics leads in PPE innovation

Hainsworth Protective Fabrics develops PPE fabrics that deliver protection and comfort while meeting international standards.

Utilizing Fibre Positioning Technology, their fabrics are trusted by emergency service professionals globally, including firefighters, police, and other emergency personnel.

Each fabric is crafted at their family-run textile mill in West Yorkshire and undergoes rigorous testing both internally and independently.

Hainsworth’s ECO-DRY PPE fabric offers 17% greater breathability for wildland firefighters in the UK: Summary

Hainsworth Protective Fabrics has introduced the ECO-DRY PPE fabric, which provides 17% more breathability than a 100% meta-aramid blend, according to RET testing.

Additional WickView testing at James Heal in Halifax confirmed ECO-DRY’s superior wicking properties, allowing moisture to pass through the fabric effectively.

This enhances firefighter comfort and reduces the risk of heat exhaustion.

Martin Haworth, Technical Manager at Hainsworth, highlighted the fabric’s combination of Merino Wool and flame-retardant fibres as key to its performance.

Developed in West Yorkshire, ECO-DRY supports the increasing demands of wildland firefighting by ensuring protective clothing remains comfortable and effective in extreme conditions.

MSA Safety highlights fire protection technologies at French firefighter congress

by EventsFeatured NewsPPE

MSA Safety to feature firefighting solutions at National Congress

MSA Safety, a provider of firefighter protection solutions, is showcasing its products at the National Congress of French Firefighters, held in Mâcon, France, from 25 to 28 September.

At the event, MSA Safety will present its MSA GALLET fire helmets and the MSA Connected Firefighter Platform.

These products are designed to keep firefighters protected on the scene and help manage compliance with safety standards, ensuring that equipment is ready for use in emergency situations.

MSA GALLET helmets on display at the congress

MSA Safety’s GALLET helmets, including the F2XR rescue helmet and the jet-style F1XF fire helmet, will be highlighted during the congress.

The helmets are manufactured at the company’s facility in Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne, France, which has earned a reputation as a major hub for fire helmet production.

The GALLET F2XR rescue helmet is a versatile product certified for multiple uses, such as wildland firefighting, technical rescue, and urban search and rescue.

MSA Safety will also host a webinar on 26 September to discuss the helmet’s modularity and ease of inspection.

Connected Firefighter Platform and FireGrid software

MSA Safety will also demonstrate the Connected Firefighter Platform, an integrated system of hardware and software that helps fire departments manage personal protective equipment (PPE) and data related to equipment usage.

The platform includes the M1 Control Module, a telemetry-enabled self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), and the MSA HUB, a cloud-connected gateway for remote monitoring.

FireGrid software, which powers the platform, allows fire departments to track equipment and digitise tasks such as compliance checks and maintenance scheduling.

These features are intended to simplify equipment management and improve safety by making relevant data easily accessible to firefighters and fire departments.

Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne manufacturing site and experience centre

In addition to its presence at the congress, MSA Safety recently opened a Connected Worker and Firefighter Experience Centre at its manufacturing site in Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne.

This facility allows firefighters to learn about the latest safety technologies and receive training directly from MSA Safety professionals.

Dave Howells, President of MSA International, said: “MSA Gallet is a long-standing fixture in the world of fire helmets and head protection, and we have a passionate workforce in Châtillon.

They’re proud of their work because they know they’re helping to keep people safe at work every day – and that is at the heart of the MSA mission.”

MSA Safety highlights fire protection technologies at French firefighter congress: summary

MSA Safety will showcase its fire safety solutions at the National Congress of French Firefighters in Mâcon from 25 to 28 September.

The company will feature its GALLET fire helmets, including the F2XR rescue helmet and the jet-style F1XF fire helmet, both manufactured at MSA Safety’s Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne facility.

MSA will also present its Connected Firefighter Platform, an ecosystem of hardware and software designed to manage personal protective equipment and improve on-scene decision-making.

FireGrid software will be demonstrated, showing how it simplifies compliance and equipment tracking tasks.

MSA’s recent investment in its Connected Worker and Firefighter Experience Centre will also be highlighted during the event.

MSA Bristol: Protecting those who protect us

by Breaking NewsPPE

Adele Harris, MSA UK Bristol Service Manager discusses the Company’s role in helping to promote firefighter safety through care and maintenance of fire protective clothing

In this exclusive interview, we delve into the operations of MSA Bristol Managed Services, part of MSA Safety Services & Solutions, and explore the role the team plays in helping to keep first responders safe through the care and maintenance of personal protective equipment (PPE) and fire protective clothing (FPC).

Speaking with Adele Harris, MSA UK Bristol Service Manager, we uncover the dedication and expertise that drive this important service.

Adele Harris has been with the business for seven years, managing three service centres primarily based in Bristol.

Her customer-facing role involves interfacing with both Pay as You Go and Fully Managed Service customers, ensuring their needs are met with precision and care.

MSA Bristol’s Fully Managed Service is an end-to-end solution spanning the life of a contract.

Their services may include washing, repairing and replacing garments, along with providing a Help Desk team dedicated to responding to firefighters’ queries and handling laundry logistics.

With three service centres in the UK, MSA Bristol cares for thousands of firefighters across the UK, processing and repairing tens of thousands of items annually.

This interview delves into the processes and unwavering commitment that contributes to the operational safety and readiness of first responders.

Can you provide an overview of MSA Bristol Managed Services and the significance of your work?

Our Fully Managed Service is an end-to-end solution for customers over the life of their contract.

During this period, we perform services such as washing, repairing and replacing garments.

We may also offer a Help Desk team dedicated to responding to firefighters’ questions and queries, including new recruits and training logistics.

Additionally, we handle laundry logistics and provide the service of a two-hour emergency response.

These are some of the available benefits of our managed service contract.

Can you talk about the managed services model and its operational scale?

We have three service centres serving 23 managed service customers and a similar number of Pay as You Go customers.

We have 113 employees and care for about 50,000 firefighters in the UK.

Annually, these centres wash approximately 361,000 garments and repair around 71,000 items.

Can you describe the typical cycle for caring for fire protective clothing and what processes are involved?

We operate a seven-day turnaround.

For example, if we collect your laundry on a Tuesday, it will be returned clean the following Tuesday.

The primary objective of all our service centres is this seven-day cycle.

The Fully Managed Service generates other benefits such as returning laundry to the firefighters’ home station regardless of where it entered laundry and RFID traceability throughout the wash process.

During the seven-day process, we’re collecting, washing, drying, inspecting, repairing and delivering gear to the fire stations.

What specific services do your teams provide at the service centres?

We have a team that responds to our Help Desks, handling various activities.

These include sizing new recruits, addressing queries related to laundry or equipment and managing changes when firefighters get promoted or change locations.

In addition, we issue all new recruits with a complete ensemble of PPE, ready for their start date, and monitor the return of equipment from departing staff.

Our commitment is to do our part to keep the fire service operational at all times.

Whatever the challenge, we endeavour to find a solution, frequently within a two-hour window, for example.

Since we manage their entire FPC and PPE contract, it’s our goal to keep this gear operational.

This could mean repairing a helmet, providing replacement FPC and PPE, or resolving issues sometimes caused by the users themselves.

It’s our ability to find solutions and reduce or minimise operational downtime that makes this an outstanding service for our customers.

What are some of the benefits of having all services done in-house at MSA Bristol?

One important reason lies in our mission to help protect firefighters.

We are a purpose-driven organisation and that shared mission and our values make us act as a team.

We help to ensure that firefighters are operational and can protect our communities daily.

Everyone in our organisation understands this mission and performs their part of the chain to the highest standards.

Secondly, there are synergies from being both the manufacturer and the service provider for these garments.

Our associates repair garments daily so they are familiar with their structure and assembly, ensuring they are returned fit for purpose again.

This creates a feedback loop where we learn from how our garments behave over their lifecycle, typically seven to eight years.

Our design teams can then use this feedback for future product development.

Finally, having everything in-house means we have control and traceability throughout the entire process.

We have insights into what has happened to every garment over its lifecycle and where it is at any moment in our process.

This end-to-end oversight allows us to achieve high service levels, maintain quality and ensure timely delivery to customers.

We can also ramp up operations quickly in response to unique situations or large incidents because we have all functions in-house.

Those are just some of the benefits of keeping everything in-house.

When washing and repairing, how do your associates ensure the safety and longevity of the gear?

We use specific wash programs for certain types of contaminants.

When we inspect a garment, we have approximately 17 checkpoints, encompassing fabric layers, reflective tape, pockets, trims and fastenings on the garment.

When we repair a Bristol garment, we are able to use the same machinery, components, threads and fabric as in its original manufacture.

Over time, we’ve developed intensive repair routines based on years of experience and proven results.

Additionally, every garment is personally signed off by the inspector and the repairer.

In recent years, what growth and investments have been made in the Bristol Managed Services division?

Two major investments stand out.

One is in Scotland, where we opened a service entity in Livingston in the second half of 2021.

Its purpose is to provide service levels and commitments to one of the largest fire and rescue services in the world, which is in that region.

This year, another major investment occurred in our service centre in Bristol, where we undertook a full-scale modernisation.

We’ve introduced new cleaning and drying equipment and implemented an automatic railing system that feeds through the different process steps, from washing to the logistics process back to the customer.

This system uses RFID technology to increase efficiency and improve traceability throughout the process.

This modernisation has brought some pretty exciting changes for us.

This article was originally published in the September 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Best Foot Forward – Selecting the Right PPE Footwear

by Breaking NewsPPE

Fire and rescue services need to able to react quickly, and to ensure they are ready to face any condition, firefighters must be equipped with high-quality protective equipment, from head to toe.

The HAIX Fire Eagle range is an innovative boot range that delivers outstanding performance for all environments.

The latest addition to the range, the HAIX Fire Eagle 2.0, saw the introduction of HAIX’s RapidFit system, the quickest fastening system for firefighter boots. In a world first, the boot can be tightened in a flash with one hand.

No additional tying or tucking is needed, as the RapidFit system automatically holds the lacing in place after tightening.

A wider, ergonomic grip makes the fastener even easier to close, which is critical when every second counts.

Proper fitting boots is also vital in helping firefighters mitigate the risk of workplace accidents when executing complex operations.

The HAIX Vario Wide Fit system provides an excellent solution in adaptive footwear, based on the individual user’s foot shape.

An innovative system that offers three different insoles, it allows the wearer to adjust the boot to the width of their foot, providing the perfect fit.

To find out more about the HAIX Fire Eagle range, please visit www.haix.co.uk.

2024 Firefighting Training Event hosted in Enschede by TenCate Protective Fabrics

by EventsNews CategoriesPPEProducts

This year’s event welcomed 30 elite firefighters from Germany

September 4 – 5, TenCate Protective Fabrics hosted the third annual “Experience Days” firefighting event, a collection of hands-on training sessions designed for firefighters to put their skills to the test in real-world firefighting simulations. The event was held at Twente Safety Campu[SJ1] s and the TenCate Protective Fabrics Nijverdal corporate office and production plant.

This year’s event welcomed 30 elite firefighters from Germany, all participating in intense training exercises over the two days. Each fire fighter got to wear the latest innovation in firefighter protection – the Nomex® Advance® Truecolor® – a new fire suit outer shell developed to deliver industry-leading levels of durability and colorfastness so wearers can stay more safe and more confident on the job.  

Experience Days is an unparalleled opportunity for firefighters to engage in realistic, high-pressure environments where the performance of top-of-the-line fire suits can truly be assessed. The event is made possible through the collaboration of TenCate Protective Fabrics with Dupont and Isotemp,[SJ2]  who will also be present to support the training exercises.

To learn more about how Nomex® Advance® Truecolor® outer shell fabric enables firefighters with new levels of durability and colourfastness – visit TenCate’s website.

For information please contact:

Dawn Hill, Global Marketing Specialist, Emergency Response, TenCate Protective Fabrics

d.hill@tencatefabrics.com

#PPE #Tencate

Burlington Uniforms to unveil first own brand range at The Emergency Services Show 2024

by PPE

Leading uniform provider, Burlington Uniforms will be unveiling an own brand launch at The Emergency Services Show (18-19 September at NEC, Birmingham).  The Burlington Technical Range is the first clothing collection to be produced under the Burlington Uniforms brand and features 12 specialist garments.

The range comprises tactical flex trousers, a polo shirt, ¼ zip top and a shirt, each available in elite, premium, and performance options.

Display garments will feature on stand 5/E162 with additional items available for handling and closer inspection.  Swing tags will detail the product specification, features and benefits. 

Exceptional standards

Burlington Uniforms has harnessed more than 49 years’ experience in developing and curating bespoke garments and wardrobes for its emergency services and blue light clients, plus its knowledge of mass production, customisation and personalisation to produce this high-performance range. 

Each garment is designed so that the specification can be adjusted to meet certain requirements and various price points.  This capsule range showcases the exceptionally high spec to which these items can be produced.  For example, the elite and premium options use durable Cordura fabric and revolutionary odour absorbing fabric, Odegon.

Feedback for further development

Throughout the event Burlington Uniforms will be encouraging visitors to stand 5/E162 to offer honest and meaningful feedback on the specialist range.  The Emergency Services Show presents a unique opportunity for delegates to influence further product development.

Underpinned by outstanding customer service

The Burlington Uniforms team will also be on-hand with guidance and advice, and to explain the company’s extraordinary approach to customer care, including its fully managed service, innovative Wardrobe Management System, bespoke clothing and personalisation offers. 

These services set Burlington Uniforms apart from ordinary uniform providers.  Coupled with the new Burlington Technical Range, stand 5/E162 is a must-visit for buyers and procurement teams working in the emergency services and blue light industries.

Visitors to the stand will also be entered into a prize draw to win a pair of safety boots.

To find out more about Burlington Uniforms please visit our webhttps://www.burlington-uniforms.co.uk/site.  To arrange a meeting at The Emergency Services Show, please call 0208 443 6920.  In the meantime, stay up to date through social media, follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.