PPE awareness campaign launched in UK to highlight life-saving workplace protection

by Featured NewsPPESafety

BSIF launches PPE Saves campaign to promote safe and informed equipment use

The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has launched a new national campaign titled PPE Saves, aiming to highlight the safety-critical role of personal protective equipment (PPE) in workplaces.

The BSIF said the campaign encourages employers to make informed decisions about PPE selection, certification and use, with the support and involvement of their workforce.

According to the federation, PPE is often underestimated despite being a final and essential line of defence when other safety controls cannot eliminate risk.

PPE highlighted as critical to workplace injury prevention

The BSIF stated that millions of workers in the UK rely on PPE each day for protection from common workplace hazards.

The federation noted that when equipment is well-designed, properly certified, and fitted correctly, it can prevent injury, minimise harm and support long-term health.

The organisation pointed to examples where PPE has a direct safety function, including the use of high-visibility clothing around vehicles, respiratory equipment for asbestos exposure, and helmets to reduce head injury severity.

Research supports role of PPE in reducing harm

The PPE Saves campaign references several research findings to demonstrate the impact of protective equipment in reducing injury and improving outcomes.

The British Medical Journal found that correct non-slip footwear reduced workplace falls by 49 percent.

Data from Manchester Royal Eye Hospital stated that 90 percent of eye injuries could be prevented with the correct protection.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) reported that over 1 million people in England and Wales visit A&E for head injuries annually, with proper helmets capable of lowering the impact.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) noted that noise-induced hearing loss is entirely preventable with well-fitted protection and that hand injuries represent 25 percent of non-fatal incidents at work, many of which can be avoided with correct gloves.

BSIF CEO calls for action on product quality and proper specification

BSIF Chief Executive Officer Alan Murray said: “PPE is vital for protecting lives across Britain every single day. But not all PPE performs well, and that’s a serious problem.”

Alan Murray added: “PPE Saves is a campaign dedicated to making sure workers have access to suitable and reliable PPE because investing in quality products isn’t just about safety, it shows you value your people.”

Alan Murray said: “There’s a wide range of innovative, comfortable, and sustainable PPE on the UK market. Yet poor-quality products are still in widespread use, compromising worker comfort and putting lives at risk. That’s why we’re raising awareness of what good PPE looks like, where to find it, and how to make sure it performs.”

The campaign includes a call for personal experiences from workers, employers and safety professionals to share real-life stories of PPE use using the hashtag #PPESaves.

PPE awareness campaign launched in UK to highlight life-saving workplace protection: Summary

The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has launched a national campaign called PPE Saves.

The campaign aims to raise awareness of the role personal protective equipment plays in workplace safety.

BSIF stated that PPE is essential when risks cannot be fully eliminated through other safety controls.

The federation said the campaign encourages responsible PPE selection with workforce involvement.

Examples of PPE benefits include preventing falls, eye injuries, asbestos exposure, and hearing loss.

Research cited includes data from BMJ, Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, NICE and HSE.

Alan Murray, BSIF CEO, said the campaign seeks to address the problem of low-performing PPE products.

He said that responsible sourcing and quality specification are essential to ensure protection.

The campaign invites stakeholders to share their PPE experiences using the hashtag #PPESaves.

National Technical Textile Mission supports India-made firefighting suit project

by Featured NewsPPE

Domestic suit designed to reduce reliance on firefighting imports

The Government of India’s Ministry of Textiles has reported that the National Technical Textile Mission (NTTM) is supporting the development of a new aluminised firefighting suit to strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities.

According to the ministry, the project is being carried out by the Northern India Textile Research Association (NITRA) in collaboration with the industrial partner M/s System 5S Private Ltd.

Suit designed for high-heat environments across Indian sectors

The Ministry of Textiles explained that the suit is intended for use in environments where heat and flame protection is essential, including fire and emergency services, defence, aerospace, and the oil and gas sector.

It stated that these types of suits – often called fire entry suits – are currently imported into India, mainly from Europe, the USA, and China.

The organisation added that India’s annual demand is currently around 1,000 suits, though this number could increase substantially if a certified domestic option becomes widely available.

Project partners aim to meet international safety standards

According to the Ministry of Textiles, the suit has been designed to meet EN 1486 and ISO 15538 standards, which outline requirements for full-body protection against radiant heat and flame impingement.

The standards specify that the protective ensemble must include a garment, hood, gloves, and overboots, with compatibility for respiratory equipment either worn internally or externally.

The ministry said the indigenous suit is made from aluminised coated glass fabrics, OPAN nonwoven battings, and flame-resistant viscose fabric, with all layers quilted together for performance and durability.

Certification and commercial rollout to follow fire manikin test

The Ministry of Textiles confirmed that trial manufacturing has already begun and commercial production will follow once the suit passes the EN ISO 13506 fire manikin test.

This standard evaluates clothing performance when exposed to heat and flame and is required to ensure safety compliance before large-scale deployment.

The ministry stated that M/s System 5S Private Ltd has a production capacity of 1,000 suits per year.

National Technical Textile Mission supports India-made firefighting suit project: Summary

The Government of India’s Ministry of Textiles has announced support for a new firefighting suit through the National Technical Textile Mission.

The project is being implemented by Northern India Textile Research Association and M/s System 5S Private Ltd.

The suit is intended to replace imported aluminised fire entry suits.

India’s current annual demand is around 1,000 suits.

Materials used include aluminised coated glass, OPAN battings, and FR viscose.

The design complies with EN 1486 and ISO 15538 safety standards.

Suits are being manufactured on a trial basis.

Commercial production will begin after EN ISO 13506 fire manikin testing is completed.

The production capacity is 1,000 suits annually.

This project aims to expand India’s domestic manufacturing in firefighting gear.

MSA Safety launches G1 SCBA XR Edition and new turnout jacket at FDIC 2025

by Breaking NewsPPE

New products introduced by MSA Safety at FDIC in the United States

MSA Safety has announced two new additions to its firefighter safety equipment range at the FDIC International 2025 event in the United States.

According to MSA Safety, the G1 SCBA XR Edition and the Globe G-XTREME PRO Jacket are designed to improve firefighter protection, comfort, and operational awareness.

These new products join the Cairns 1836 Fire Helmet, which was introduced earlier in the year.

All three products will be presented at FDIC at booth number 2623.

SCBA unit receives upgrades to improve usability and maintenance

The G1 SCBA XR Edition builds on ten years of development of the G1 SCBA unit.

MSA Safety stated that the XR Edition includes updates to the breathing air regulator, straps, lumbar pad and fill pouches.

These components are now removable for cleaning, and compatible with existing G1 SCBA systems.

The company confirmed the SCBA XR Edition will be available to order from May 2025.

Turnout jacket designed for comfort and fit across a wide range of users

The Globe G-XTREME PRO Jacket has been developed by Globe Manufacturing Company, part of MSA Safety.

According to the announcement, it includes a three-panel outer shell, mesh liner to reduce bulk, a redesigned collar and new length options.

These features are intended to support improved comfort, fit and flexibility.

Orders for the G-XTREME PRO Jacket will open later in 2025.

Company emphasises integration and accountability in connected tools

MSA Safety also announced it will display its Cairns fire helmet range and FireGrid platform at FDIC.

The Cairns 1836 Fire Helmet is described by MSA Safety as one of the lightest traditional-style helmets that complies with NFPA standards.

FireGrid is a cloud-connected application system that helps manage data from devices and personnel.

According to MSA Safety, the platform supports accountability and decision-making for fire crews.

Bob Apel, Executive Director, Global Fire Service and Digital Experience at MSA Safety, said: “Our mission is to help firefighters stay safe and accounted for by designing protective equipment and connected solutions that are consistent and easy to use.”

Customer needs highlighted as central to product design

Stephanie Sciullo, President of MSA Americas, said the company’s approach is shaped by firefighter input.

Sciullo said: “Our customers drive our innovation and lead us to design safety solutions that best meet their safety needs.”

She added: “In the past decade the fire service has evolved, and so has MSA by bringing new safety solutions to the market.

“As the leader in head-to-toe firefighter protection, we’re committed to helping advance firefighter safety, and we’ll continue to evolve and innovate by designing the next generation of safety equipment.”

MSA Safety launches G1 SCBA XR Edition and new turnout jacket at FDIC 2025: Summary

MSA Safety has announced the launch of the G1 SCBA XR Edition and Globe G-XTREME PRO Jacket at FDIC International 2025.

The SCBA XR Edition features updated components including the breathing air regulator, straps and fill pouches, with all parts designed to be removable and backwards-compatible.

It will be available for order in May 2025.

The new turnout jacket includes a mesh liner, redesigned collar and extended sizing options.

MSA Safety will also showcase its Cairns fire helmets and FireGrid application platform.

The FireGrid system is used to manage personnel and device data.

The company stated that customer needs informed the development of the new safety products.

Quotes from company executives were provided by MSA Safety.

Fire-Dex launches Virtual Sizer tool to streamline firefighter gear sizing in the US

by Featured NewsPPE

Fire-Dex introduces AI sizing tool for turnout gear

Fire-Dex has launched an artificial intelligence-driven tool called the Virtual Sizer to improve the accuracy and efficiency of firefighter turnout gear fittings in the United States.

According to Fire-Dex, the Virtual Sizer uses AI algorithms to calculate user measurements based on basic inputs including height, weight and shoe size.

The company reported that over 6,500 entries have already been processed through the tool.

Todd Herring, Vice President of Product Innovation and Strategy at Fire-Dex, said: “The response has been incredible. Firefighters are getting gear that fits better, faster. We’ve actually been testing and refining this technology internally for over five years to ensure accuracy before making it widely available.”

Tool aims to reduce errors caused by manual sizing

Fire-Dex stated that the Virtual Sizer removes the need for traditional sizing gear or tape measures, addressing potential inconsistencies that occur through manual measuring.

The company said the system is backed by more than 150 million AI-generated digital twins and informed by firefighter-specific data.

Herring said: “The technology is backed by over 150 million AI-generated digital twins and validated through extensive firefighter-specific data. It’s precise, tested and constantly improving with every use—meaning the more firefighters use it, the smarter and more accurate it becomes.”

According to Fire-Dex, the Virtual Sizer has undergone testing with fire departments across the United States and has shown results comparable to conventional sizing methods.

Memphis Fire uses Virtual Sizer to onboard out-of-state recruits

The City of Memphis Fire Department in Tennessee has used the Virtual Sizer to support the sizing of new recruits, especially those located outside of the region.

Keith James, Division Chief of Logistical Services at Memphis Fire, said the department has used the tool to size between 25 and 30 recruits from outside the local area.

James said: “It can be difficult for them to fly or drive in just for processing and fittings, especially when we’re trying to get gear ordered quickly so it arrives during class.”

He added: “We tested it first with a few people locally and found the output matched our sizing. That gave us the comfort level to roll it out further.”

Time-saving and accuracy benefits highlighted

According to Fire-Dex, the tool helps departments reduce delays and avoid the need for rework or resizing, while helping ensure that gear fits properly.

James said the implementation of the Virtual Sizer at Memphis Fire was straightforward and effective, with the department reporting no issues or resizing needs after deployment.

Herring said: “Our AI tool streamlines ordering, but the real winners here are the firefighters. The process is faster, but more importantly, emergency responders end up with gear that fits well and lets them focus on the job.”

Fire-Dex launches Virtual Sizer tool to streamline firefighter gear sizing in the US: Summary

Fire-Dex has launched the Virtual Sizer, an AI-driven sizing tool for firefighter turnout gear.

The tool calculates sizing based on user inputs including height, weight and shoe size.

Over 6,500 entries have been recorded since launch, according to Fire-Dex.

It is backed by 150 million AI-generated digital twins and tested with firefighter-specific data.

Memphis Fire Department has used the tool to size 25 to 30 recruits from out of state.

The department reported that no resizing was required after using the Virtual Sizer.

Fire-Dex has tested the tool internally for over five years.

The company says the tool eliminates inconsistencies caused by traditional sizing methods.

Memphis Fire noted time savings and ease of implementation as benefits.

Fire-Dex said the tool continues to improve its accuracy through use.

Firefighters with cancer could get federal benefits under proposed US law

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetySafetyWildland Fire

Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act reintroduced in US Senate

According to the LA Times, a new federal bill has been reintroduced to expand benefits for firefighters who develop cancer linked to their work responding to wildfires.

The Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act would allow access to the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program for firefighters diagnosed with non-9/11 service-related cancers.

This move follows the January wildfires in Los Angeles County, during which 20 Northern California firefighters were found to have high blood levels of lead and mercury after responding to the blazes.

Research tracks health risks linked to wildfire response

As reported by the LA Times, a study led by researchers from institutions including Harvard, UCLA, UC Davis and the University of Texas at Austin is monitoring the long-term health effects on firefighters exposed to the January fires in Southern California.

According to the World Health Organization, firefighting is classified as carcinogenic.

A 2024 study found that firefighters are 14% more likely to die from cancer than the general population.

Between 2002 and 2019, 66% of firefighter line-of-duty deaths were attributed to cancer.

Concerns raised over future implementation

The bill has bipartisan support, but the LA Times reports that its passage and implementation remain uncertain.

John Feal, a 9/11 site responder and advocate, warned of potential administrative hurdles: “Getting the piece of legislation passed is not as hard as guarding it.”

He said that growth in the number of claims and applicants could strain the system.

The legislation would allow eligible firefighters to access an existing benefits scheme, but disability and education support would still be subject to annual budget approval.

Previous programmes cited as cautionary examples

Attorney Michael Barasch, who represents clients from the 9/11 community, said streamlined eligibility will be necessary to avoid delays.

“In my experience representing more than 40,000 members of the 9/11 community, any similar program should have a clear set of standards to determine eligibility,” Barasch said to KFF Health News.

Feal added: “There’s a backlog on enrollment into the WTC program because they’re understaffed, and there’s also a backlog on getting your illnesses certified so you can get compensated.”

The bill would add cancer diagnoses unrelated to 9/11 to the list of qualifying conditions for the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program.

Firefighters with cancer from wildfires could get federal benefits under proposed US law: Summary

The LA Times has reported that US Senators have reintroduced the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act to support firefighters with service-related cancers.

The legislation would enable firefighters to access the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program for conditions not related to the 9/11 attacks.

The January 2025 wildfires in California prompted new research which found toxic exposure among firefighters.

Concerns remain over the implementation of the bill, including documentation challenges, staffing levels and funding consistency.

A similar bill was passed by the Senate Judiciary Committee in 2024 but did not progress.

The Congressional Budget Office previously estimated an annual cost of $250 million.

Advocates say the program must avoid the administrative delays seen in 9/11-related compensation schemes.

The legislation is backed by a number of senators and firefighter associations.

Blackline Safety expands global presence in fire hazmat safety technology

by CommunicationsFeatured NewsFire DetectionPPE

Global customer growth reported in fire hazmat monitoring

Blackline Safety has reported a 175 percent increase in the number of fire hazmat customers using its connected personal and area monitors worldwide over the past year.

According to Blackline Safety, customer numbers grew from 127 to 350 over the last 12 months.

The company stated that thousands of users are now operating its monitoring solutions across North America, Europe, the Middle East, Australia and New Zealand.

The company attributed this growth to increased demand among fire and hazmat teams for tools that provide enhanced monitoring and real-time data access during high-risk operations.

Blackline stated that its cloud-connected devices allow remote tracking of personnel safety conditions and support faster response decisions.

NewEXO 8 Gamma monitors set for initial shipment

Blackline Safety has announced that the first shipments of its EXO 8 Gamma area monitors will begin this month.

The monitor is capable of detecting gamma radiation in addition to up to eight gases simultaneously.

According to Blackline, EXO 8 is the only portable area monitor with direct-to-cloud capability and simultaneous gas and gamma detection features.

Doug Mayer, Fire Hazmat Business Development Specialist at Blackline Safety, said: “EXO 8’s gamma detection capability is a game-changer for fire and hazmat teams — not only in emergency response, but also in public event monitoring.”

Mayer added: “From gas leaks and chemical spill incidents of all kinds, and now gamma radiation, we’ve reimagined safety solutions to help responders deploy equipment faster, get more gas exposure information, and share data for real-time visibility.”

Fire teams adopt wider range of connected safety tools

In addition to the EXO 8 Gamma, Blackline Safety reported ongoing uptake of its broader range of connected safety technologies by fire-hazmat teams.

These include G7 personal gas detectors featuring cellular and satellite connectivity, two-way voice communication, fall and no-motion alerts, and automatic data logging.

The G6 single gas detector, offering real-time connectivity and emergency SOS functions, is also in use.

Fire departments are also using Blackline Live, the company’s cloud-based platform that provides real-time information on personnel location, gas exposures and device status from any internet-connected device.

Travis Rebello, Firefighter and Hazmat Coordinator for the City of New Bedford, Massachusetts, said: “Blackline’s remote monitoring capabilities allow me to log in any time and see what my guys are dealing with and then to triage what other assets are needed on the scene at any time.”

Fire industry professionals to see new technology at FDIC International 2025

Blackline Safety will be exhibiting its connected safety products at FDIC International 2025 in Indianapolis from 7 to 12 April.

The company confirmed that it will showcase its portfolio, including the EXO 8 Gamma, G7 and G6 wearables, and the Blackline Live platform, at Booth 943.

FDIC International is one of the fire sector’s largest exhibitions, attracting fire and rescue personnel from multiple regions for demonstrations, training and equipment evaluation.

Attendees will have the opportunity to see live demonstrations of Blackline’s latest technologies and learn how connected systems are being integrated into fire and hazmat operations.

Blackline Safety expands global presence in fire hazmat safety technology: Summary

Blackline Safety has reported a 175 percent year-on-year increase in fire hazmat customers, growing from 127 to 350 clients across several regions including North America, Europe and Australasia.

The company stated that its cloud-connected safety devices are being increasingly adopted for their ability to support remote monitoring and real-time data sharing during emergency response operations.

The firm will begin shipping its EXO 8 Gamma area monitors later this month.

This model can detect up to eight gases and gamma radiation simultaneously and is connected directly to the cloud.

Blackline also reported continued adoption of its G7 and G6 gas detectors and Blackline Live cloud platform.

These tools offer features such as SOS alerts, two-way communication and live tracking.

Blackline Safety will showcase its technologies at FDIC International 2025 in Indianapolis from 7 to 12 April, where it will demonstrate its monitoring systems at Booth 943.

Switlik Survival Products introduces Tac-X Tactical Air Crew Vest for helicopter operators

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured NewsPPEProductsSearch and Rescue

Switlik Survival Products introduces new flotation vest

Switlik Survival Products has announced the launch of the Tac-X Tactical Air Crew Vest, a flotation system designed for helicopter pilots and technical crews.

The vest is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and incorporates ergonomic and durable features to support a range of missions.

The Tac-X is based on Switlik’s X-Back design, which is already in use by the United States Coast Guard (USCG).

This version is FAA-approved and offers similar features to the USCG Aviation Aircrew Life Vest.

Key features of the Tac-X vest

The Tac-X is manufactured in the United States using flame-resistant 1000 Denier FR Nylon.

It is MOLLE-compatible and includes COBRA® hardware to enhance adaptability for different operational needs.

The vest features a twin-chamber inflatable flotation system providing over 35 lbs of buoyancy.

It is designed with a lightweight, low-profile structure to reduce interference with helmets.

Additional safety features include a built-in locator light, an emergency whistle, and two oral inflation tubes.

The dual-opening zipper and integrated grab handle support rescue operations.

Designed for multiple mission types

The Tac-X vest is built for various rotary wing operations, including law enforcement, military, search and rescue, and firefighting.

It is also suited for border patrol, wildlife service, utilities, and aerial photography.

The vest is intended to improve safety and efficiency for helicopter operators working in demanding conditions.

Its modular design allows for customisation based on mission requirements.

Switlik Survival Products’ focus on aviation safety

Switlik Survival Products stated that the Tac-X is part of its commitment to advancing safety for aviation personnel.

The company’s Vice President of Sales, Anthony Florio, said: “Switlik is honored to contribute to aviation safety with our next-generation X-Back design, which was tested and qualified by the U.S. Coast Guard.”

He added: “The Tac-X combines these advancements with FAA-approved flotation capabilities, offering rotary wing operators unparalleled protection and comfort.”

FAA-approved Tac-X vest launched for helicopter air crews: Summary

Switlik Survival Products has introduced the Tac-X Tactical Air Crew Vest, an FAA-approved flotation system designed for helicopter pilots and technical crews.

The vest features the company’s X-Back design, which is already in use by the US Coast Guard.

The Tac-X is constructed from flame-resistant 1000 Denier FR Nylon, is MOLLE-compatible, and includes COBRA® hardware.

It provides over 35 lbs of buoyancy through a twin-chamber inflatable system.

Other features include a built-in locator light, an emergency whistle, two oral inflation tubes, a dual-opening zipper, and an integrated grab handle.

The vest is designed for use across multiple sectors, including law enforcement, military, search and rescue, border patrol, and aerial photography.

Switlik Survival Products stated that the Tac-X combines safety and comfort for rotary wing operators.

Anthony Florio, Vice President of Sales, said the vest builds on the company’s work with the US Coast Guard while providing an FAA-approved flotation option for helicopter crews.

MEIKO UK recognised for sales and service at 2025 ENSE Awards

by Featured NewsPPESafety

MEIKO UK nominated for ENSE sales and service award

MEIKO UK has been shortlisted in the sales, service and support category at the 2025 ENSE Awards.

The ENSE Awards, an annual event in the catering equipment industry, will take place during the 2025 ENSE Partnership Summit & Awards from 1-3 April. The event recognises suppliers and distributors for their contributions to the sector.

Paul Anderson, managing director of MEIKO UK, said: “This is a mark of achievement because it acknowledges our relentless commitment to exceptional customer service. It’s an honour to be recognised and a proud moment for the MEIKO team.”

ENSE Awards to highlight excellence in catering equipment industry

The ENSE Awards are held as part of the ENSE Partnership Summit, which brings together suppliers and distributors in the catering equipment sector. The awards programme celebrates achievements in various categories, including sales, service and support.

Winners are selected based on their performance within the industry. The event is attended by professionals from across the UK, providing an opportunity for networking and industry discussion.

MEIKO UK’s role in the UK catering equipment market

MEIKO UK supplies dishwashing and food waste handling equipment to businesses across the catering and hospitality sectors. The company provides service and support to its customers through its UK-wide network.

The company has focused on customer service, which has contributed to its nomination in the ENSE Awards. The recognition places MEIKO UK among other suppliers being acknowledged for their contributions to the industry.

About ENSE and its role in the industry

ENSE is a UK-based catering equipment buying consortium that works with equipment distributors. It aims to support suppliers and distributors by facilitating partnerships and business development opportunities.

The organisation hosts the annual ENSE Partnership Summit & Awards, where it acknowledges businesses for their role in the industry. The awards cover multiple categories related to equipment supply, service and customer support.

MEIKO UK recognised for sales and service at 2025 ENSE Awards: Summary

MEIKO UK has been nominated for the sales, service and support category at the 2025 ENSE Awards. The awards will be presented during the ENSE Partnership Summit & Awards, which will take place from 1-3 April 2025.

ENSE is a catering equipment buying consortium that supports distributors and suppliers in the UK. The awards programme recognises businesses for their performance in the sector.

Paul Anderson, managing director of MEIKO UK, said the nomination reflects the company’s commitment to customer service. The company provides dishwashing and food waste handling equipment, alongside service and support for the catering and hospitality industries.

EU shipowners must upgrade firefighting suits to Level 2 by June 2025

by Featured NewsPorts & MaritimePPETransport

Regulatory changes require new firefighting suit standards

Shipowners and operators of EU-flagged vessels must ensure that all new firefighting suits meet enhanced protection standards by June 2025, according to VIKING Life-Saving Equipment.

The updated Marine Equipment Directive (MED) regulations (EU) 2024/1975 mandate that new firefighting suits comply with ‘Level 2’ standards, which provide enhanced protection against heat, water penetration, and breathability.

These requirements build on rules introduced in August 2024, which already require suits to be tested to EN469:2020 standards.

Existing ‘Level 1’ firefighting suits may remain in use until they are no longer fit for service.

However, once replaced, they must meet the Level 2 standard.

Enhanced protection requirements for firefighting suits

The Level 2 classification introduces additional safety measures designed for high-risk firefighting scenarios.

These include improved resistance to radiant and convective heat (X2), enhanced water penetration protection (Y2), and increased breathability (Z2).

The Y2 classification has been introduced to address rising concerns over electrical fires and high-volume water use in enclosed spaces.

Firefighting suits with Y2 protection include an extra moisture barrier to guard against steam burns and chemical exposure.

“There has been widespread acknowledgement that seafarers need more protection, including from electric vehicle and battery fires, and in enclosed spaces,” said Charlotte Nielsen, Product Manager PPE at VIKING Life-Saving Equipment.

Compliance checks advised for shipowners

To avoid potential issues with Port State Control inspections, shipowners should confirm that all new firefighting suits meet the Level 2 requirements at the time of purchase.

VIKING recommends fleet managers conduct risk assessments on their firefighting gear and update each vessel’s Safety Management System (SMS) to reflect the new standards.

“We recommend customers conduct risk assessments on the condition and certification of suits and update each vessel’s Safety Management System (SMS),” Nielsen added.

International impact of EU firefighting regulations

VIKING has been supplying Level 2 marine firefighting suits since 2016, with its existing models already meeting X2 and Z2 requirements.

With the new MED regulations coming into force, the company expects more non-EU countries to adopt similar standards.

The UK has already updated its legislation to reflect Y2 requirements.

VIKING has reported increased demand for its YouSafe Torch firefighting suit, which meets the Level 2 EN469:2020 standard.

“As a one-stop shop for marine life-saving equipment, we respond well ahead of the regulators, with a strong lead provided by the products we develop for land-based firefighting professionals,” Nielsen said.

EU shipowners must upgrade firefighting suits to Level 2 by June 2025: Summary

Shipowners operating EU-flagged vessels must ensure that all new firefighting suits meet Level 2 protection standards by June 2025, as required by MED regulations (EU) 2024/1975.

The updated rules introduce enhanced safety measures, including improved heat resistance (X2), water penetration protection (Y2), and breathability (Z2).

Existing Level 1 suits may remain in service but must be replaced with Level 2 models when no longer fit for use.

VIKING Life-Saving Equipment advises fleet managers to conduct risk assessments and update their vessel’s Safety Management System (SMS) to ensure compliance.

The company expects more non-EU countries to follow the EU’s regulatory changes, with the UK already incorporating Y2 requirements into its legislation.

Erick Bellefleur appointed CEO of INNOTEX as Claude Barbeau retires

by Featured NewsPeoplePPE

Leadership transition at INNOTEX

INNOTEX has announced that Erick Bellefleur has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer, effective 18 February 2025.

He takes over from Claude Barbeau, who will retire in April 2025.

Bellefleur brings over 30 years of experience in general management, strategic planning, and business development in the industrial manufacturing sector.

His previous roles include Senior Vice-President of Michelin’s off-road business and CEO of Camso Inc.

Louis Carpentier, Executive Chairman of INNOTEX, said: “We are excited to have Erick on board to lead INNOTEX into the company’s next stage of growth.

“He came from organisations with similar corporate values and systems as INNOTEX.

“He is a charismatic leader and a team player. I very much look forward to working with Erick.”

Background and experience of the new CEO

Bellefleur has worked across manufacturing, marketing, R&D, supply chain, B2B sales, and mergers and acquisitions.

His previous leadership roles focused on operational efficiency, strategic growth, and customer-focused initiatives.

Commenting on his appointment, Bellefleur said: “INNOTEX has proven its ability to innovate and adapt in the fire and rescue industry through its people that hold a passion towards its customers. I’m honoured to lead this team into a bright future.”

Retirement of Claude Barbeau

Barbeau has served as CEO of INNOTEX for a decade and will step down in April 2025.

Reflecting on his tenure, he said: “It has been an incredible honour to lead INNOTEX over the past 10 years.

This exceptional company has a bright future ahead, and I look forward to spending more time with my family, travelling, and continuing to support INNOTEX.”

Carpentier acknowledged Barbeau’s contributions: “Claude has elevated innovation at INNOTEX by introducing flagship products and leading a production overhaul that drove sustained growth.

“We wish his well-earned retirement is as rewarding and satisfying as his career.”

About INNOTEX

Founded in 1999, INNOTEX designs, develops, and manufactures fire-protective turnout gear, multifunctional rescue gear, and protective hoods and gloves.

The company produces protective clothing for American firefighters in the United States.

Erick Bellefleur appointed CEO of INNOTEX as Claude Barbeau retires: Summary

INNOTEX has announced the appointment of Erick Bellefleur as its new CEO, effective 18 February 2025.

He succeeds Claude Barbeau, who will retire in April 2025 after a decade in the role.

Bellefleur has over 30 years of experience in industrial manufacturing, previously serving as Senior Vice-President of Michelin’s off-road business and CEO of Camso Inc.

He has expertise in manufacturing, marketing, R&D, supply chain, B2B sales, and mergers and acquisitions.

Barbeau expressed gratitude for his tenure and plans to continue supporting the company.

INNOTEX Executive Chairman Louis Carpentier highlighted Barbeau’s contributions to innovation and growth.

Founded in 1999, INNOTEX manufactures fire-protective turnout gear, rescue gear, and protective equipment for firefighters in the United States.