Rosenbauer introduces the HEROS H10 helmet for global firefighting

by Featured NewsPPEProductsWildland Fire

New helmet designed for forest and wildland firefighting

Rosenbauer has announced the launch of the HEROS H10 helmet, designed to complement the existing HEROS Titan and HEROS H30 models.

As reported by Rosenbauer, the HEROS H10 is specifically tailored for forest and wildland firefighting, as well as technical rescue operations.

The helmet meets five European standards, making it suitable for high-altitude and water rescue missions.

Additionally, it is certified to the Australian standard, highlighting its global applicability.

A key feature of the HEROS H10 is its compatibility with other HEROS family helmets, including interchangeable interior fittings, which enhances cleaning, hygiene, and parts availability.

Production details and capacity

The first prototypes of the HEROS H10 were successfully manufactured in May 2024.

Series production is set to begin in July 2024 at Rosenbauer’s Pichling plant near Linz, Austria.

This facility, known for its high-quality firefighting equipment, will produce up to 130,000 custom helmets annually in a single-shift operation.

The plant’s workforce includes highly skilled personnel with extensive experience in helmet production.

The on-site quality department maintains rigorous standards, ensuring the safety and reliability of each helmet.

Advanced IT support, including a 3D configurator in the Rosenbauer Online Shop, allows for customer-specific adjustments, while RFID technology ensures precision and efficiency in the production process.

Sustainable practices and local partnerships

Rosenbauer demonstrates a commitment to sustainability in its production practices.

Most suppliers are located near the Pichling plant, reducing transportation time and CO2 emissions.

The company uses high-temperature resistant yet recyclable polyamide thermoplastics instead of problematic duroplastics, reflecting an environmentally responsible approach to manufacturing.

Global impact of the HEROS H10

The combination of advanced technology, production efficiency, and Austrian craftsmanship positions the HEROS H10 as a premier firefighting helmet.

Rosenbauer expects the helmet to positively impact the safety and comfort of emergency response teams worldwide.

MSA Safety launches V-Gard H2 safety helmet with Mips protection system

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyIndustrialPPEProductsSafety

MSA Safety unveils V-Gard H2 helmet

MSA Safety has announced its latest head protection innovation, the V-Gard H2 Safety Helmet.

This new addition to the V-Gard line integrates the Mips brain protection system, enhancing safety for industrial workers.

Greg Martin, Senior Vice President and Chief Product and Technology Officer at MSA Safety, highlighted the helmet’s features: “The V-Gard H2 Safety Helmet extends MSA Safety’s position as the leader in industrial head protection with new innovations and added lateral protection for particular applications.”

The helmet is designed to meet ANSI Z89.1 Type II certification, protecting against various head impacts, including lateral and side impacts.

Mips brain protection system integrated in new helmet

The V-Gard H2 Safety Helmet offers the option to include the Mips brain protection system.

This system is a low-friction layer inside the helmet that moves slightly upon impact, redirecting rotational energies and reducing the risk of brain trauma.

Max Strandwitz, CEO of Mips, emphasised the importance of this partnership: “Mips is proud to partner with MSA, a global PPE leader, to further amplify our mission to lead the world to safer helmets.”

MSA Safety’s new helmet aims to address the dangers of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in industrial settings.

The Mips system adds a layer of protection against angled or lateral impacts, such as those from slips, trips, and falls.

Versatile features of the V-Gard H2 Safety Helmet

The V-Gard H2 Safety Helmet comes with various features to enhance its utility in different industrial applications.

These include an integrated 4-point chinstrap and compatibility with most V-Gard H1 and V-Gard accessories.

The helmet is available in both vented and non-vented options, offering a wide range of colors and customisation choices, including logo options.

Greg Martin noted the versatility of the helmet: “We’re offering customers highly customizable and versatile helmet options for use across a wide variety of industrial areas and applications.”

MSA Safety’s commitment to worker protection

The V-Gard H2 Safety Helmet is part of MSA Safety’s broader mission to keep people safe at work.

By partnering with Mips, MSA Safety aims to enhance the protective capabilities of its helmets, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of industrial workers.

Max Strandwitz of Mips further emphasised the significance of addressing TBIs in the industry, noting that the collaboration with MSA Safety is a milestone in improving industrial safety.

NFPA updates fire department medical program standards

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPPE

New NFPA 1582 standard for fire departments

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has updated its guidelines for physicians and healthcare providers involved in fire department medical programs.

As reported by The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), NFPA 1582, also known as the Standard on Comprehensive Occupational Medical Program for Fire Departments, now provides a single standard for both candidates and current fire fighters.

This update includes considerations of age and biological sex in the benchmarks for cardiorespiratory fitness.

The previous standard differentiated between medical requirements for candidates and incumbent fire fighters, relying solely on test results without accounting for individual factors.

NFPA collaborated with IAFF officials, FEMA representatives, attorneys, and medical experts over two years to finalise the new standard.

Grading and fitness programs

The revised NFPA 1582 standard now assesses fire fighter cardiorespiratory fitness using a percentile system.

Fire fighters who score in the 35th percentile or higher will be considered to have a passing test score.

Those scoring below this benchmark, with age and biological sex considerations, may be assigned a fitness program aimed at improving their cardiopulmonary health.

Once the decision to amend the standards was made, the IAFF and other task group members pushed for the inclusion of metrics related to age and biological sex.

Ensuring accurate and complete results

IAFF Chief Medical Officer Dan Whu emphasised the importance of these considerations: “Cardiopulmonary fitness levels are often not uniform across genders and ages, so it was important for the IAFF to ensure the new standard gave accurate and complete results.”

Whu added: “Considering these factors does not mean fire departments would have to lower expectations, it just means that appropriate fitness levels have been now adopted to reflect the cardiopulmonary differences that may be found within genders and different ages.”

Collaborative effort

The development of the new standard involved extensive collaboration.

NFPA, working with various stakeholders, ensured that the revised guidelines would provide a more accurate and fair assessment of fire fighter fitness levels.

This approach aims to create a healthier and more capable fire fighting workforce by recognising and addressing individual differences in fitness and health.

Bristol Uniforms and PGI Safety Ltd. partnership brings exclusive UK supply of particulate blocking hoods

by Featured NewsPPE

Partnership announcement between Bristol Uniforms and PGI Safety Ltd.

Bristol Uniforms, an MSA Safety company, has announced a new partnership with PGI Safety Ltd., as reported by MSA Bristol.

This agreement makes Bristol Uniforms the exclusive supplier of PGI particulate blocking hoods in the United Kingdom.

PGI Safety Ltd. is renowned for its technology-driven personal protective apparel.

Their products cater to a variety of professionals, including firefighters, EMS, police, military, and industrial workers.

The partnership will see Bristol Uniforms distributing PGI’s popular hoods, known for their comfort and performance, throughout the UK.

Details of the PGI hoods available through Bristol

The PGI hoods, which are designed to protect firefighters from exposure to airborne particulates on the fireground, include the BarriAire Gold Elite Pro Comprehensive and the BarriAire Silver Elite Pro Comprehensive.

These will be available through Bristol as HOOD19 and HOOD20, respectively.

In addition to these models, the full range of PGI hoods will be accessible via Bristol.

The sales team at Bristol will collaborate with customers to ensure they receive the most suitable hoods for their specific needs.

Existing orders for Bristol hoods will continue to be processed, and maintenance and service agreements for these hoods will be honoured.

Contact information for more details

For more details regarding the partnership and the hoods available, interested parties are encouraged to contact their local MSA or Bristol Sales Manager.

Survitec wins JMSDF contract for submarine escape suit servicing

by Featured NewsPPE

Survitec partners with JMSDF for in-country SEIE suit servicing

As reported by Survitec, the global survival technology solutions provider has secured a multi-year servicing contract from Sojitz Aerospace on behalf of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF).

This contract involves servicing the Submarine Escape Immersion Equipment (SEIE) MK11 suits used on the JMSDF’s submarine fleet.

Survitec has established an in-country servicing capability through a strategic partnership with Marinair Liferaft Co. Ltd., headquartered in Kawasaki.

Marinair Liferaft Co. will handle the servicing of the SEIE MK11 suits in Japan, ensuring adherence to stringent quality standards.

This collaboration aims to provide the JMSDF with more efficient access to essential maintenance and quality control, reducing logistical expenses and investing in regional capabilities.

Benefits of the partnership

Marinair Liferaft Co. will conduct the servicing of the SEIE MK11 suits in collaboration with Survitec.

This partnership is designed to ensure cost-effective operations and bolster the local defence industry by creating employment opportunities in Kobe, where the facility is being established.

The initiative supports growing annual capacity and meets high demand, which underpins future agreements.

David Stelling, Business Development Director at Survitec, stated: “We are excited about this partnership with Marinair and the opportunity it presents to further strengthen our relationship with the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force.

“This strategic collaboration underscores our commitment to providing tailored solutions and exceptional service to our clients while driving strategic growth in key markets.”

Comprehensive inspection and testing

The scope of supply for this contract includes thorough inspection and testing of the SEIE MK11 suits.

This encompasses visual inspections, stole pressure tests, ascent hood tests, air holding tests, inlet valve blast tests, and CO2 cylinder weight checks.

This comprehensive approach ensures the reliability and safety of the equipment, critical for the JMSDF’s operations.

The initial multi-year contract reinforces Survitec’s position as a leader in Submarine Escape Immersion Equipment (SEIE).

The strategic in-country partnership with Marinair Liferaft Co.

represents an advancement in delivering customer-centric support tailored to the specific needs of Japan’s Maritime Self-Defence Force.

Health and Safety Executive plans to inspect fire services on cancer prevention measures

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsHealth and SafetyPPE

HSE to begin inspections of fire services for carcinogen protection

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has announced plans to inspect fire and rescue services to assess measures taken to protect firefighters from carcinogens.

As reported by the Fire Brigades Union (FBU), these inspections will evaluate procedures from on-scene precautions to the cleaning of personal protective equipment (PPE) and contaminated workwear.

The HSE plans to publish the inspection standards in April 2025, following fact-finding visits and research commissioned by the FBU.

Professor Anna Stec of the University of Central Lancashire conducted this research on contaminants.

Background and impetus for the new inspections

The initiative follows the World Health Organisation’s International Agency for Research on Cancer classifying firefighting as a carcinogenic occupation.

This classification highlights the urgent need for protective measures against occupational cancers among firefighters.

The FBU has been advocating for better protection against contaminants and occupational cancers for a long time.

Their DECON campaign demands regular health monitoring and legislation to support and compensate firefighters diagnosed with cancer.

FBU’s response to the HSE initiative

Riccardo la Torre, Fire Brigades Union national officer, commented on the HSE’s plans: “The Fire Brigades Union welcomes plans to inspect fire and rescue services for measures taken to protect firefighters from cancer and disease-causing contaminants.

“Reducing and eliminating firefighters’ exposure to these contaminants is crucial for preventing occupational cancers.

“Proper regulation would be a significant step forwards, with the potential to save lives.

“We will be monitoring the development of this initiative closely and await further details from the HSE.”

La Torre emphasised the FBU’s ongoing commitment to securing urgent action to prevent firefighter cancers, advocating for early disease detection through health monitoring and compensation for affected firefighters.

Research informing the new inspection standards

The research informing the new HSE inspection standards was carried out by Professor Anna Stec and commissioned by the FBU.

This research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the contaminants firefighters are exposed to and the best practices for mitigating these risks.

IFSJ comment

The HSE’s initiative to inspect fire services for carcinogen protection aligns with the growing recognition of the occupational hazards firefighters face, particularly exposure to carcinogens.

The planned inspections will likely drive improvements in safety protocols and protective measures within fire services.

The forthcoming inspection standards, informed by rigorous research and real-world observations, will be critical in setting a benchmark for fire services.

DuPont unveils new fire safety breather membrane for high-rise buildings

by Breathing ApparatusFeatured NewsPPEProducts

DuPont introduces Tyvek Trifecta: new fire-resistant breather membrane

DuPont Performance Building Solutions has launched a new product, the Tyvek Trifecta breather membrane, specifically designed for the external walls of high-rise buildings.

This product is notable for its A2-s1, d0 Class Fire Performance, aligning with the European Fire Classification Standard EN 13501-1, and it exceeds the fire safety standards set by current UK Building Regulations.

The Tyvek Trifecta is presented in a convenient roll size of 1.5m x 25m, offering exceptional fire safety and moisture protection.

It represents an evolution of the standard Tyvek breather membranes, providing enhanced protection in a lightweight format.

Complete system and UV resistance

In conjunction with the DuPont AirGuard A2 FR AVCL, Tyvek Trifecta forms a comprehensive A-rated membrane system.

The system’s integrity is further reinforced by the DuPont AirGuard FR System Tape, which bolsters its fire and moisture protection capabilities.

This makes the system suitable for various building types including high-rise buildings, hospitals, and schools.

Moreover, Tyvek Trifecta boasts up to 12 months of UV resistance, offering flexibility during construction projects and aiding in the maintenance of a quality façade installation.

Advanced moisture management

The new Tyvek Trifecta is engineered with superior moisture management properties.

It features Class W1 water resistance according to EN13859-2 and is designed with low vapour resistance, making it an optimal secondary weather protection layer in external wall systems.

Andrea Albert, Shelter Solutions EMEA Marketing Leader at DuPont, commented: “Tyvek Trifecta provides an outstanding solution to helps offer building owners fire safety protection of people using their buildings.”

Albert also noted: “This product is a testament to our commitment to developing solutions that help enhance the fire safety and moisture protection standards of the construction industry.”

Rosenbauer set to release new lightweight fire helmet, the HEROS H10, later this year

by Featured NewsPPEProducts

Introduction of the HEROS H10 to enhance fire safety gear

Rosenbauer is preparing to enhance its fire safety equipment line with the upcoming release of the HEROS H10 helmet in fall 2024.

The new model focuses on providing essential protection against both flames and mechanical impacts while minimising the weight to alleviate strain on firefighters during extended wear.

Development and design insights of the HEROS H10

The HEROS H10 was meticulously designed to comply with multiple safety standards, achieved through extensive design and prototyping stages, including 3D printing to refine its features and ensure its adaptability.

“Our rigorous testing and prototyping have been instrumental in developing a helmet that meets the diverse needs of fire safety and rescue operations while providing unprecedented comfort,” stated a Rosenbauer representative.

Transition to production and unique features of the HEROS H10

Currently in the pre-series production phase, the HEROS H10 employs advanced materials and manufacturing techniques such as injection molding to produce the helmet shells.

The helmet is notable for its lightweight, under 500 grams, and versatility, certified for various uses including forest firefighting, mountain rescue, and industrial safety, making it suitable for a broad range of emergency scenarios.

IFSJ Comment

The forthcoming launch of the HEROS H10 helmet represents a strategic enhancement to Rosenbauer’s safety equipment offering, anticipating the needs of fire and rescue personnel who require reliable protection without the burden of heavy gear.

This innovation in helmet design is indicative of Rosenbauer’s commitment to advancing safety technology, aligning with industry standards and expanding the functionality of protective gear used in challenging environments.

The introduction of the HEROS H10 is expected to set a new benchmark in the design and functionality of fire safety helmets.

BSIF launches new hearing protection campaign to enhance safety compliance

by Featured NewsPPE

BSIF introduces the ‘Just Because It Fits’ campaign

The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has announced the launch of their latest awareness campaign titled ‘Just Because It Fits’, which aims to increase awareness and ensure proper fit of personal protective equipment (PPE) focusing on hearing protection within the workplace.

This initiative is in response to the estimated 11,000 work-related hearing problem cases reported between 2019 and 2022.

The campaign underscores the importance of not only using PPE but ensuring it is thoroughly tested and certified to function effectively when combined with other safety gear such as helmets.

Understanding the new campaign and its significance

The campaign advocates for the use of certified combinations of earmuffs and safety helmets, which must meet the harmonised European Standard and UK Designated Standard EN 352-3.

The focus is on educating users about the significance of comprehensive testing and certification to prevent inadequate hearing protection in noisy work environments.

The technical aspects of hearing protection

The BSIF campaign stresses the critical role of fit testing in hearing protection efficacy.

Commercially available fit test systems are now more accessible, offering a Personal Attenuation Rating (PAR) which quantifies the actual noise reduction each user achieves.

These systems are crucial in addressing the discrepancies between expected and actual protection, which can be influenced by the fit, user application skill, and motivation.

IFSJ Comment

The ‘Just Because It Fits’ campaign by the BSIF is a commendable effort to address the often-overlooked aspect of hearing protection in the workplace.

By focusing on the fit and certification of hearing protection equipment, BSIF enhances worker safety and promotes compliance with safety standards.

This initiative is expected to lead to better informed choices regarding PPE and reduce the incidence of hearing damage among workers, thereby contributing to a safer working environment.

A new era of turnouts with Fire-Dex

by Breaking NewsPPE

AeroFlex ™ by Fire-Dex marks a groundbreaking leap in firefighter comfort and safety

In the line of duty, your biggest danger is heat stress.

As your body’s core temperature rises, you lose the ability to concentrate, make sound decisions, and think critically.

Today, heat stress contributes to over half of reported line of duty deaths.

When physical exertion leads to accumulation of heat and sweat, your body naturally cools down by allowing sweat to evaporate.

Without an escape route for the sweat vapor, it stays trapped against your body.

Fire-Dex has discovered that traditional gear fails to cool you down where you need it the most.

That’s why they developed AeroFlex™, a new era of turnout gear that incorporates material science and design features that supercharge the breathability of your garment while significantly reducing the risk of heat stress and cardiac-related issues.

Designed with VaporLite™ Panels and AeroVent™ Technology, AeroFlex™ supports core body temperature regulation, encouraging airflow to keep your body cool and comfortable without compromising the protection you need!

The peak of technical brilliance

Fire-Dex uses a breathable and proprietary 3-layer composite system that targets the areas of your body where heat becomes most encapsulated, the side seams, armpits, inner thighs, and behind the knees.

VaporLite™ Panels allow sweat to evaporate more efficiently than any garment available to the fire service today and are built exclusively with Fire-Dex’s TECGEN71 outer shell, a CoreCXP™ 1-layer thermal liner, and your choice of moisture barrier.

TECGEN71 is the only outer shell that can be paired with a single-layer thermal liner thanks to its exceptional breathability and thermal protection, achieving industry- leading Resistance to Evaporative Heat Loss (Ret) and Total Heat Loss (THL) performance.

Choose any composite for the rest of the garment and allow these panels to cool the core.

The first of its kind, AeroVent™ Technology utilizes a one-way street ventilation design that operates in conjunction with the pressure differential between the outer environment and the microclimate inside your gear, allowing sweat vapor to escape without letting heat or carcinogens inside.

AeroVent™ Technology enables you to better regulate your core body temperature, reducing the risk of heat stress and other cardiac-related issues.

Particulate-blocking technology in the vents act as a barrier against potentially harmful carcinogens.

“I am amazed at how cool it felt,” said Battalion Chief Chad Christenson of the L.A. County Fire Department following a long-term AeroFlex™ wear trial.

“I tried on several occasions to saturate myself with as much convective and radiant heat as possible, then when I moved around, I actually started to cool off.

“This has never happened in any other set of gear I have worn. The technology is amazing.”

Dynamic movement

The vents lie within the VaporLite™ Panels, with two positioned along the armpits and two placed on the inner thighs, facilitating airflow and promoting optimal cooling where it matters most.

By promoting airflow through dynamic movement, AeroVent™ Technology generates a constant cooling sensation.

As the wearer becomes more active, increased air circulation within the garment results in a heightened cooling experience.

“The difference was felt while active,” said Engineer Bradley Smith of the Long Beach Fire Department.

“While moving, there was a noticeable difference among the participants who all described the gear as cooler.

“This is the first garment I have tested that addresses the overheating of the firefighters by reducing heat stress.”  

AeroFlex™ is a state-of-the-art ensemble that not only symbolizes next-gen technology but also underscores Fire-Dex’s commitment to ensuring that everyday heroes can confront challenges with resilience and, most importantly, return home safely.

Discover a New Era of Turnouts at https://www.firedex.com/aeroflex  

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