Firefighter PPE Carcinogen Removal

Because Ready Rack understands the need for quality protective action and equipment to prevent cancer in firefighter, we have put together some tips for you on proper PPE carcinogen removal. Regular at-work exposure means that firefighters are more prone to developing cancer. We want to help you reduce carcinogen cross-contamination and the related risks at the fire station.

14 Percent More Likely To Get Cancer

In a study of over 30,000 career firefighters from 2010-2015, the National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety (NIOSH) found that firefighters are 14 percent more likely to die from cancer than the rest of the general U.S. population. This number continues to rise.

The increased risk is caused by firefighters having to repeatedly expose themselves to cancer-causing agents known as carcinogens. These toxic substances can either be inhaled or absorbed through the skin.

Potential carcinogens may include:

Asbestos
Chloroform
Styrene
Formaldehyde
Diesel Exhaust
Benzene
Soot

Carry-On Chemicals

Contact with these chemicals usually occurs at the scene of a fire, where carcinogens travel through smoke and can stick to turnout gear. Fire stations also pose a risk due to contact with contaminated equipment and diesel exhaust from fire engines.

8 Actions To Minimize Firefighter Safety Risks

We cannot totally eliminate workplace carcinogen exposure. As we become more aware, however, there are some precautions firefighters and fire stations can take to reduce the harm posed by these dangerous toxins.

Always wear SCBA and PPE when responding to a fire.
Use firefighter wipes, or soap and water immediately after a fire to remove soot and any other carcinogens on turnout gear and exposed body parts.
Decontaminate PPE and clothes as soon as possible after a fire.
Shower and change into a new set of clothes after decontaminating gear.
Clean the fire engine interior after a fire.
Make sure fire station bay doors are open before starting up the fire engine.
Never store contaminated clothes or gear at home, in your car, or in station living and sleeping quarters.
Whether you’re a full-time firefighter, a volunteer, or retired, make sure you talk to your doctor about your work history. Even young firefighters should consider doing frequent cancer screenings due to the increased risk.

Products That Protect You

At Ready Rack, we offer a wide range of high-quality products to help you safely and properly decontaminate and store bunker gear. These products are specially designed for firefighter turnout gear. So, you can be sure that you are taking care of the gear you rely on while also taking the steps you need to protect you.

Reduce PPE Carcinogen Exposure With Ready Rack

Contact us today to learn more about protecting your fire station from PPE carcinogen exposure. We can help you order both turnout gear cleaning equipment and storage for your station. At Ready Rack, we look forward to providing you with a safer, cleaner environment for your firefighters.