London Assembly Fire Committee addresses industry criticism over lifestyle references in contaminants report

by Breaking NewsIFSJ ExclusivesIndustry Comment

Lifestyle concerns and the Committee’s response

The London Assembly Fire Committee (LAFC) has responded to criticism that references to lifestyle could distract from occupational exposure in its inquiry into fire contaminants.

The comment was provided to the International Fire and Safety Journal (IFSJ) editorial team in response to a query about concerns raised by parts of the sector.

The Committee said: “The Committee has taken a keen interest in firefighter health and wellbeing this Assembly year, both through this investigation into fire contaminants and in January when we questioned guests on the challenges around mental health and wellbeing.

“The fire contaminants investigation was squarely focused on understanding the occupational risks that firefighters face from exposure to fire contaminants.

“Yet, we did hear evidence that lifestyle factors can influence overall health outcomes.

“These factors were mentioned only where relevant to understanding the full context of firefighter health and wellbeing, not as a substitute for occupational risk.

“Occupational exposure to contaminants remains the Committee’s primary concern and the basis for our recommendations, such as establishing nationwide exposure and health monitoring and strengthening PPE and decontamination practices.

“Effective prevention and exposure reduction require addressing both workplace hazards and supporting overall health, but our scrutiny and recommendations are focused on eliminating avoidable occupational exposures as a priority.

“We will continue to emphasise this core focus in follow-up work and engagement with stakeholders.”

Report findings and recommendations on exposure in London

The LAFC report Exposure to fire contaminants in London: A hidden, growing risk? sets out evidence and recommendations linked to firefighters’ exposure to hazardous substances at incidents in London.

The findings identify asbestos, heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants among contaminants present at incidents.

The Committee notes that definitive UK evidence on cancer causation is still emerging.

Research presented to the Committee shows higher cancer incidence and abnormal tumour markers among firefighters compared with the general population.

Fire Brigade Union commissioned research found that 4% of firefighters surveyed, around 1 in 25, reported a cancer diagnosis in a self-reported sample of more than 11,000 personnel.

Prevalence was highest among those aged 35 to 39, around three times the rate seen in the general population.

Between 10% and 15% of respondents were recorded as having abnormal tumour markers, compared with a control group drawn from the public.

The report concludes that the London Fire Brigade (LFB) Fire Contaminants Policy has shifted attitudes away from the “badge of honour” of dirty kit.

Implementation varies across stations, with limitations in personal protective equipment availability and older station layouts cited as factors.

The Committee urges the Government and the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) to reduce firefighters’ exposure to fire contaminants.

Recommendations include creating a UK-wide exposure and health monitoring programme for firefighters.

The report also proposes a pilot of operational exposure monitoring in London, with a time-limited programme for operational firefighters scoped in 2026/27 and launched in 2027/28, developed with academic and occupational health experts.

Further measures include stronger training, assurance and compliance with fire contaminants policies, improved PPE supply and procurement planning, and greater emphasis on health promotion within occupational health services.

The Committee also asks the Industrial Injuries Advisory Council (IIAC) to review evidence on cancer risks linked to firefighting.

Zack Polanski AM said: “Fires don’t end when the flames are out as toxic contaminants can remain long afterward.

“Firefighters accept risk as part of the job, but exposure to toxic chemicals should not be an unavoidable consequence of protecting the public.

“While London Fire Brigade has made real progress, this report shows more needs to be done to understand and reduce the long-term health risks firefighters face.”

The report references the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) 2023 designation of occupational exposure as a firefighter as carcinogenic, alongside a call for more UK-specific research.

It also records that London firefighters receive routine medicals every three years, including basic cardiorespiratory checks and an asbestos-specific element.

The report notes that comprehensive cancer screening for firefighters is complex, with mesothelioma and bladder cancer cited as examples where safe, reliable population-level screening tests are not currently in routine NHS use.

The report records that the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) considers the existing regulatory framework sufficient to reflect firefighting’s classification as a carcinogenic occupation, citing the Health and Safety at Work Act, the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations and Workplace Regulations.

Union and academic criticism of lifestyle references

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has criticised a recommendation in the report that refers to “positive lifestyle changes, including smoking cessation, physical fitness, diet, sleep hygiene, and alcohol awareness”.

Steve Wright said: “Firefighters are dying younger and living with life-altering cancers and chronic illness.

“These are preventable occupational deaths, and this is a national scandal.

“The UK is decades behind other countries on this issue, and this report underlines the urgent need for basic, long-overdue measures: stronger prevention measures, regular health monitoring for all firefighters, and re-evaluation of compensation for firefighters’ occupational diseases.

“However, firefighters will rightly find the references to ‘lifestyle’ offensive.

“Firefighters are not getting sick because of personal choices – they are getting sick because they are being systematically exposed to toxic substances in the course of their work.

“When so many other countries and international bodies are doing the right thing and recognising the risks firefighters face, it is time for our own government to stop ignoring the evidence and act.”

Anna Stec said: “While the report makes positive recommendations on the need for a UK-wide rollout of harmonised contamination exposure tracking and health monitoring for firefighters, the argument that firefighter cancers and diseases could be reduced through lifestyle changes is fallacious.

“Lifestyle factors influence health outcomes in any population, but they do not explain the elevated rates of cancer and disease seen in firefighters.

“Why should firefighters be expected to adopt such changes in order to compensate for the toxic environments they are routinely exposed to at work?”

The Committee’s response to the lifestyle criticism sits alongside its broader call for exposure monitoring, policy compliance and PPE and decontreve practices to reduce long-term health risks for firefighters.

De-Wipe adds dog shampoo and conditioner to its decontamination range

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyProducts

De-Wipe dog shampoo and conditioner for investigation dogs

De-Wipe has launched De-Wipe Dog Shampoo & Conditioner for fire investigation dogs, with samples available on request.

The company said the product was developed to remove contaminants and support the work of investigation dogs.

De-Wipe described the product as intended to help remove fireground contaminants while caring for dogs’ skin and coat.

It said effective decontamination can remove substances including soot, hydrocarbons and other combustion products that can be absorbed into a dog’s coat and skin.

Use after incidents and handling contamination

De-Wipe said fire investigation dogs can carry toxic fireground residues on their coat, paws and harness, which can increase the risk of cross-contamination to handlers, vehicles, kennels and home environments.

The company added that regular decontamination supports skin and coat health and can help reduce irritation and long-term health risks linked to repeated exposure.

It also said cleaning after exposure is intended to ensure dogs are safe, comfortable and ready for their next task without carrying residual contamination forward.

Martin Lown at Phoenix Forensic Service Provider FireWise UK Learning Academy said: “I have been really impressed with the new dog shampoo. It smells great and, most importantly, it effectively removes the lingering smell of contaminants after operations.

“After washing, Hygge is left with that fresh ‘puppy smell’, which is a huge improvement.

“It’s a product / am very happy to use and would definitely recommend.”

Keeping contaminants out of the station with Rescue Intellitech

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyPPE

Robert Malmsten, Sales Director EMEA and APAC at Rescue Intellitech, explains how on-site PPE decontamination supports firefighter health, operational continuity and compliance

Can you tell us about Rescue Intellitech and its role in the sector?

Rescue Intellitech is a leading provider of specialist PPE cleaning solutions for fire and rescue services across the world.

 We’re based in Sweden and began selling our Solo Rescue Decon Washers to fire services in Scandinavia back in 2012.

Today our machines are used daily by hundreds of fire departments across Europe, North America, Asia and Oceania.

Our aim is to help improve the health, safety and wellbeing of firefighters, by providing station-based decontamination equipment for all firefighting PPE including self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), boots, gloves, helmets, masks, and firefighter clothing.

What sets us apart is that we specialise in decontaminating firefighting kit, unlike our competitors who tend to focus on the supply of household and commercial dishwashers.

As a result, everything we do from equipment design to servicing, is based on the unique needs and challenges faced by the fire services.

How is Rescue Intellitech supporting services in addressing firefighter exposure to harmful contaminants?

Exposure to smoke during firefighting can pose serious long-term health risks, including heart disease, lung damage and cancer.

While firefighters wear specialist protective clothing and SCBA to stay safe during incidents, toxic residues from smoke can linger on PPE long after the fire is extinguished, where they can later be inhaled or absorbed through the skin.

Research published in 2023 for the Fire Brigades Union by UCLan Professor, Anna Stec, provided evidence of the heightened health risks faced by UK firefighters through their exposure to contaminants.

The report made a number of urgent recommendations to address this and specifically noted that PPE should be thoroughly decontaminated after every fire-related incident to avoid a build-up of toxic contaminants.

Our Solo Rescue and DeconWasher Pro S machines have been specifically designed to clean firefighter helmets, SCBA, boots, and gloves swiftly and effectively.

 Earlier this year we launched our specialist washing machines for firefighter clothing, as well as drying cabinets for all PPE, so that we now offer a full suite of equipment suitable for fire station decontamination rooms.

What is the role of on-site PPE care compared with outsourcing cleaning?

On-site decontamination with decon washers and dryers can provide a total cleaning solution for smaller Fire and Rescue Services (FRSs) and are a game-changer for firefighter training facilities that are constantly using a relatively small amount of stock PPE.

All top-to-toe PPE can be swiftly cleaned and dried on-site and put back into service.

For those larger FRSs with managed services contracts, our solutions are an ideal supplement.

Most FRSs have a weekly collection for dirty PPE, which is then returned seven days later.

New cleaning recommendations mean that a cluster of fire-related call-outs can leave firefighters without a set of clean kit to use, or having to use the wrong size from a spare pool.

Some FRSs have even taken the step to invest in three sets of personal issue kit to rectify this, at considerable expense.

By supplementing managed services contracts with on-site decontamination facilities, FRSs can expediate turn-around for essential kit and reduce expenditure on spares.

Many FRSs that have managed services contracts for clothing still hand wash their own helmets and SCBA at the station.

One Solo Rescue decontamination machine can wash up to 21 helmets or 14 full SCBAs in an hour, making this process far quicker and safer.

How does your equipment balance effective decontamination with preserving PPE lifespan?

Although decontamination is essential to protect against carcinogens, over time frequent or improper washing of PPE can weaken fabrics and components, and impact protective performance.

 Rescue Intellitech’s machines have been specifically designed to ensure that the decontamination process is thorough but remarkably gentle, preserving the integrity of the gear.

The Solo Rescue and Decon Washer Pro S machines use technology to optimise water flow to even the most inaccessible parts of equipment without compromising function and quality.

Similarly, our new washing machines for firefighter clothing have15 pre-programmed gentle and effective wash cycles suitable for everything from heavy-duty textiles to delicate technical fabrics.

We’ve adopted the same careful consideration with our dryers too, with technology that simultaneously dries the outside and inside of the PPE without mechanical action, preventing damage and helping to prolong the life of the kit.

How has feedback from fire services influenced equipment design and development?

Feedback from FRSs and their input into our designs is crucial.

The development of the narrower, streamlined DeconWasher Pro S was a direct result of feedback from UK fire services requesting machines for smaller fire stations with limited space.

Fire services have also helped us develop our range of baskets to hold specific pieces of kit.

The small parts holder, for example, enables safe washing of even the smallest pieces of PPE such as disassembled SCBA valves and regulators.

We also launched our popular Decon as a Service subscription model in response to feedback from FRSs, enabling access to Rescue Intellitech machines and services without upfront investment costs.

What are the next steps for PPE management and how does Rescue Intellitech see its role in supporting firefighter health and safety in future?

A lot of work is being done on fire station design to incorporate best practice procedures, such as minimising exposure to contaminated gear through the creation of green, amber and red designated spaces.

Fire services are also considering how best to accommodate more frequent cleaning of PPE, with station-based systems emerging as a sensible and cost-effective solution or addition.

At Rescue Intellitech, our long-term goal is to assist with this transition by providing FRSs across the world with quality, station-based decontamination solutions.

We’ll continue to innovate and develop products that prioritise firefighter health, safety and operational resilience.

This was originally published in the November 2025 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Portable decontamination unit launched for Australian firefighters

by Breaking NewsHealth and SafetyPPEProducts

Mobile system designed for on-scene decontamination

Resilience Logistic Solutions has developed a new mobile system to support emergency responder hygiene at the incident scene, the company has announced.

According to Resilience Logistic Solutions, the ResponderWash system is designed to allow firefighters and other emergency workers to remove contaminated clothing, wash down, and redress before returning to base.

The product will be officially launched on 9 July 2025 in South Nowra, New South Wales.

The company said the system was designed following field observations of responders returning to stations without access to basic hygiene, highlighting what it described as a gap in current decontamination protocols.

Firefighting has been linked to higher incidence of cancers such as oesophageal, breast and leukaemia.

Resilience Logistic Solutions said its product aligns with existing health initiatives aimed at reducing exposure to these hazards.

System components and operating features

Resilience Logistic Solutions said the ResponderWash system can be deployed in under 30 minutes by two people.

The system includes three colour-coded compartments: a “hot zone” for removing and bagging clothing, a “warm zone” featuring a gas-powered shower, and a “cold zone” for redressing.

A standard 4kg gas cylinder is used to power the water heating system.

Optional features include a positive-pressure environment in the cold zone to maintain air quality while dressing.

Each unit is lightweight and designed for transport on a utility vehicle.

Application in post-flood environments

The system also addresses hygiene risks linked to flood response scenarios, the company said.

Floodwaters may contain sewage, animal waste, chemicals and decaying material, posing infection risks for responders.

The ability to wash down at the scene could help reduce exposure to these hazards, particularly in remote or resource-constrained environments.

Hyperthermia, another known issue in flood conditions, is also addressed through on-site access to a controlled showering environment.

Alignment with cancer risk reduction strategies

Research cited by Resilience Logistic Solutions highlights the importance of immediate decontamination to limit cancer risks among firefighters.

The company said its system could help lower the persistence of toxic substances on skin and clothing.

Cancer prevention strategies across the sector include enhanced PPE handling and improved hygiene protocols, which the company said ResponderWash complements.

While the system is not intended for use in large-scale incidents, it is aimed at everyday use by full-time and volunteer crews alike.

Statement from Alkath Group representative

Jason Chapman, Director of Strategy & Business Development at Alkath Group, said: “Our vision is to ensure all first responders have access to private, in-field hygiene options at the scene – supporting their health and dignity as they work to protect lives and property.

“Just as catering is prioritised at major incidents, we believe hygiene support deserves equal focus as a vital element of responder health and wellbeing.”

Chapman added: “This is about solutions – we are focused on protecting the people who protect us as well as the environment.”

The company said the unit’s design is intuitive and based on materials and components familiar to outdoor users.

Water use is minimised, with a reported 80L required to serve up to eight personnel.

Greywater is managed via a container system to prevent environmental contamination.

Portable decontamination unit launched for Australian firefighters: Summary

Resilience Logistic Solutions has developed a portable decontamination system for emergency responders.

The unit will be launched on 9 July 2025 in South Nowra, New South Wales.

It is designed to support on-scene hygiene following exposure to contaminants and bacteria.

The system can be deployed by two people in under 30 minutes.

It includes three compartments for clothing removal, washing and redressing.

Water heating is powered by a standard LPG cylinder.

The design allows transport on a utility vehicle.

Flood response scenarios were a key consideration in the design.

Jason Chapman of Alkath Group said the system supports responder dignity and health.

Each component is lightweight and intuitive to assemble.

The unit uses 80 litres of water for eight people.

Greywater is collected for safe disposal.

The system aligns with cancer prevention and health strategies in the emergency sector.

The role of nutrition in reducing cancer risks for UK firefighters

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyPPEResearch

UK firefighters face cancer risk from workplace exposure

UK firefighters are at increased risk of developing several cancers, according to a review published by Cambridge University Press.

The review draws on UK-specific evidence and supports the 2022 decision by the World Health Organization to classify firefighting as carcinogenic to humans.

The authors highlight that the primary source of this risk is ongoing exposure to fire effluent contaminants, including benzene, formaldehyde, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and asbestos.

Although personal protective equipment and decontamination protocols are in place, the paper explains that some chemical residues remain in the body long after exposure and may accumulate over time.

Additional risk factors include shift work and disrupted sleep patterns, which contribute to hormonal changes, inflammation and impaired cellular repair.

Diet identified as a protective factor against cancer

The review states that while exposure reduction remains the focus of fire service health policies, nutritional strategies could provide additional protection.

Referencing UK government data, the authors cite that up to 80 percent of cancer cases may be preventable in principle through dietary and lifestyle changes.

The report highlights that fruit, vegetables, wholegrains, omega-3 oils and legumes have been linked to lower rates of cancers such as bladder, colon, thyroid and prostate in published research.

By contrast, red and processed meats, sugar, alcohol and excess body fat were all identified as risk factors associated with increased cancer incidence.

The authors also cite a large Italian study that found high adherence to national cancer prevention guidelines resulted in reduced cancer-related mortality.

Mediterranean diet proposed as a practical model

The report suggests that the Mediterranean diet is one of the most evidence-supported dietary approaches to lowering cancer risk.

It outlines the typical Mediterranean pattern as being high in plant-based foods, whole grains, fish and olive oil, with low consumption of red meat and processed items.

The authors explain that many of the food components within this diet have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in both human and animal studies.

Findings from the EPIC cohort, which studied over half a million people across Europe, showed that a two-point increase in Mediterranean diet adherence scores was linked with a 12 percent lower cancer incidence.

The review notes that while Mediterranean foods can be substituted with local equivalents in the UK, uptake remains low.

Low dietary adherence among UK firefighters

The authors point out that few UK firefighters follow Mediterranean or government-recommended dietary patterns.

Referencing national surveys, the review notes that less than a third of UK adults eat enough fruit and vegetables, and that sugar intake is typically double recommended levels.

Studies on firefighters in other countries, including the United States and Germany, show a consistent pattern of higher body mass index and poor nutritional habits among shift-based fire service staff.

The authors cite preliminary studies from the US indicating that fire service workers may also have disrupted gut microbiomes, which may influence inflammation and immune health.

Although UK-specific data on firefighter diets is lacking, the authors argue that similar trends are likely and require further research.

Food-based compounds show potential in laboratory research

The review discusses a number of food-derived compounds that have demonstrated protective effects against fire-related carcinogens in laboratory settings.

These include sulforaphane from broccoli sprouts, omega-3 fatty acids from oily fish, and catechins found in green tea.

While most of the cited research was based on in vitro or animal models, some early-stage human trials have shown promising results, including enhanced detoxification of pollutants.

The authors caution, however, that such findings are not yet sufficient to inform formal guidelines, as they require larger trials to confirm safety and efficacy.

They recommend focusing on whole-food dietary patterns rather than individual supplements, citing the lack of benefit seen in antioxidant supplement trials.

Shift schedules and workplace culture present barriers

The report highlights a number of cultural and occupational barriers that may make dietary change more difficult for UK firefighters.

These include irregular working hours, disrupted sleep and stress, which are known to drive unhealthy food choices and affect metabolism.

Communal eating habits and the traditional ‘messing’ system used in UK fire stations may further complicate attempts to change individual behaviour.

The review also notes that firefighters often lack access to nutritional education and may be unaware of the link between diet and cancer risk.

The authors argue that interventions must be group-based and culturally tailored in order to succeed.

Communal culture could enable dietary change

While communal eating can be a barrier to change, the review also identifies it as a potential enabler.

Research from the US and UK suggests that peer influence and shared food preparation can help normalise healthier eating patterns when paired with education.

Examples include team-based nutrition programmes, cooking demonstrations, educational materials and targeted online support tools for firefighters.

Several studies referenced in the review show that such interventions led to improved adherence to the Mediterranean diet and better health outcomes.

The authors recommend that UK fire services develop and implement similarly structured, culturally relevant initiatives.

Diet and cancer risk in UK firefighters: Summary

UK firefighters face increased cancer risk due to occupational exposure to carcinogens.

The World Health Organization has classified firefighting as a carcinogenic occupation.

Contaminants such as benzene, asbestos and PAHs remain in the body after exposure.

Firefighters also face risks from shift work, disrupted sleep and chronic inflammation.

The Mediterranean diet has been linked to lower cancer incidence and mortality.

UK dietary surveys show low adherence to recommended healthy eating patterns.

Laboratory studies show food-based compounds may support detoxification.

Most of these studies are early stage and require human trials to confirm effects.

Firefighters often face barriers to healthy eating, including stress and shift patterns.

Communal food culture may influence dietary behaviour in fire stations.

Targeted education and peer support may help promote sustainable dietary change.

The report calls for more firefighter-specific research and organisational support.

King Charles grants Royal Warrant to Meiko UK for warewashing excellence

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyPPESafety

Royal recognition for warewashing supplier in the UK

Meiko UK has been awarded a Royal Warrant of Appointment for the supply and maintenance of warewashing equipment to His Majesty King Charles III.

According to Meiko UK, the appointment acknowledges companies that have supplied goods or services to the Royal Household regularly over a minimum period of five years.

Eligibility criteria also include an evaluated commitment to environmental responsibility, which the company said includes having a formal sustainability policy and action plan.

The Royal Warrant is issued as a formal recognition of service and quality, specifically tied to the Royal Household’s operational requirements and values.

Meiko UK confirmed that the Warrant applies specifically to warewashing equipment and related maintenance services.

Criteria for Royal Warrant include sustainability commitment

Meiko UK stated that successful Royal Warrant applicants must demonstrate ongoing environmental and sustainability performance.

The company noted that this includes proof of actionable steps to reduce environmental impact, verified through documentation and corporate behaviour.

Paul Anderson, Managing Director of Meiko UK and Royal Warrant Grantee, said: “It is a very proud moment to be recognised by His Majesty with a Royal Warrant of Appointment.

“This reflects not only the craftsmanship of our products but also the quality of service from Meiko engineers, designers and project managers, marketing staff, Sales Management, warehouse and logistics and all those involved in customer service at head office.

“It is also exciting that Meiko’s extraordinary commitment to sustainability has also been recognised.

“We are committed to conserving our natural resources by designing environmentally friendly products and by encouraging sustainable behaviours.”

Anderson added: “Meiko has publicly committed to making our Offenburg production facility carbon-neutral by 2025 to demonstrate our commitment to protecting the environment.

“Meiko UK was also the first in UK foodservice to commit to the provision of customer training support for the lifetime of our equipment.

“The enthusiasm to preserve and protect the environment runs throughout Meiko, and we are particularly keen to use environmental education to engage the energy and emotion of our customers and users of Meiko equipment.

“We look forward to upholding the values that the Royal Warrant represents and to continuing our relationship with the Royal Household.”

UK site links service quality with engineering and training

Meiko UK highlighted that the warrant reflects the quality and reliability of its warewashing systems and maintenance services.

The company stated that its UK operations involve multiple departments contributing to equipment support, including engineering, design, logistics and customer service.

It reported that customer support continues across the product lifecycle, with a focus on sustained training and operational guidance.

The UK team said its approach is based on long-term service delivery aligned with both customer and environmental needs.

Meiko UK also noted that this ongoing service model was a distinguishing factor in their Royal Warrant eligibility.

Royal Warrant builds on international environmental targets

The company said that its environmental targets are managed both in the UK and at its international facilities.

Meiko UK reiterated its public commitment to carbon neutrality at its production facility in Offenburg, Germany by the end of 2025.

It also stated that environmental education is a key part of its service philosophy, especially in relation to equipment use in foodservice environments.

The organisation said that this focus is designed to engage clients and users on sustainable behaviour change.

Environmental aims have been formally integrated into the company’s internal processes and customer engagement activities, it added.

Royal Household relationship to continue following award

Meiko UK said the Royal Warrant confirms its continuing relationship with the Royal Household.

It explained that the Warrant represents a mutual understanding between supplier and household built on service consistency and shared values.

The company added that it sees the Warrant as a formal framework for maintaining its current performance levels and sustainability targets.

Meiko UK stated that it would continue operating within the standards required by the Royal Household while also extending customer service innovations in the wider UK market.

It confirmed that this recognition will not alter its commercial activities but instead reflect existing service commitments.

Meiko UK receives Royal Warrant for warewashing equipment supply: Summary

Meiko UK has received a Royal Warrant of Appointment for warewashing equipment.

The Royal Warrant was issued by His Majesty King Charles III.

Meiko UK confirmed the award applies to the supply and maintenance of warewashing systems.

The company said eligibility required at least five years of service to the Royal Household.

Applicants must also demonstrate a formal sustainability policy and action plan.

Managing Director Paul Anderson is named as the Royal Warrant Grantee.

The company has committed to making its Offenburg facility carbon-neutral by 2025.

Meiko UK said it was the first in UK foodservice to offer lifetime equipment training.

It said the award recognises engineering, customer service and logistics support teams.

Meiko UK confirmed it will continue service delivery under the terms of the Royal Warrant.

New PPE decontamination cabinets introduced for UK fire services

by Health and SafetyPPEProducts

Decontamination systems enhanced with UK launch of drying cabinets

Rescue Intellitech has announced the launch of new PPE drying cabinets for the UK fire and rescue sector.

The Swedish manufacturer said the drying cabinets support decontamination efforts by safely and quickly drying protective gear after cleaning, reducing the risk of firefighters using damp equipment.

The company said the equipment is already in use across Europe and the US and will be shown in the UK at the Blue Light Show in London Olympia on 18 and 19 June 2025.

Rescue Intellitech reported that fire and rescue services including Buckinghamshire and Avon currently use its existing Solo Rescue and DeconWasher Pro S decontamination machines.

According to the company, the new cabinets complement these machines by completing the cleaning cycle with a purpose-built drying process.

Two sizes available to suit fire station needs

Rescue Intellitech stated that the drying cabinets are available in two sizes: the larger DC20 and the smaller DC8.

The company noted that both versions use non-mechanical, energy-efficient drying methods to prevent wear and extend the lifespan of PPE.

It added that the interior and exterior of equipment is dried simultaneously, meaning SCBA, gloves, helmets and boots are made operational faster.

According to the manufacturer, the cabinets are configurable for various types of kit and have both automatic and manual drying programmes.

It said each cycle ends with a cooling mode to allow PPE to be handled immediately after drying.

Drying cabinets support wider PPE decontamination strategy

Martin Valfridsson, CEO of Rescue Intellitech, said the launch reflects the company’s broader strategy to expand its decontamination offering in the UK.

Valfridsson said: “Our mission is to help improve the health, safety and wellbeing of firefighters, by providing effective decontamination and drying equipment for SCBA, boots, gloves, helmets and masks.

“With the introduction of drying cabinets to our product portfolio, we can now offer a suite of decontamination solutions for fire stations, demonstrating our commitment to safety, sustainability, and innovation.

“The newly launched drying cabinets help minimise the health risks associated with damp kit.
They are durable and efficient and make the PPE decontamination process quick and easy.”

Decontamination linked to long-term firefighter health

Rescue Intellitech stated that contaminated PPE carries health risks due to residual toxins and carcinogens.

The company said that its decontamination systems are designed to help fire and rescue services protect staff from long-term illnesses including cancer and respiratory conditions.

According to Rescue Intellitech, decontamination of kit remains an essential part of operational safety and health protocols.

It said that incorporating drying into this process helps ensure that firefighters are not exposed to risks from moisture retention or delayed equipment availability.

UK-specific benefits highlighted by local sales team

Nick Croad, Sales Manager for UK and Ireland at Rescue Intellitech, commented on the drying cabinets’ relevance for UK operations.

Croad said: “Air drying PPE equipment is not efficient and often results in equipment being out of service for too long or firefighters having to use damp PPE, which isn’t good for their health.

“The new drying cabinets are compact and very easy to install so can effortlessly be incorporated into existing fire and rescue services’ decontamination facilities.

“They dry PPE quickly and efficiently and are flexible to suit all drying needs – ideal for busy fire and rescue services striving to improve firefighter health and well-being.”

New PPE decontamination cabinets introduced for UK fire services: Summary

Rescue Intellitech has launched new PPE drying cabinets in the UK.

The equipment is designed to complete the PPE decontamination process by drying kit after washing.

The drying cabinets are available in two sizes: DC20 and DC8.

They operate using energy-efficient, non-mechanical drying technology.

The systems are intended to reduce health risks by preventing damp PPE use.

Buckinghamshire and Avon Fire and Rescue Services already use Rescue Intellitech’s cleaning systems.

The new cabinets will be displayed at the Blue Light Show on 18 and 19 June 2025.

Martin Valfridsson is CEO of Rescue Intellitech.

Nick Croad is Sales Manager for UK and Ireland.