Exhibitor Press Releases

The role of a firefighter is one of inherent risk, but that risk should not linger long after the fire is out. The personal protective equipment (PPE) that serves as a firefighter’s first line of defence can, alarmingly, become a source of long-term harm if not properly maintained.

At the Emergency Services Show on 17-18 September at the NEC, Birmingham, we will be discussing the critical importance of moving beyond simple cleaning to a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to PPE care.

The Unseen Contaminants

After an incident, firefighting turnout gear can retain a cocktail of harmful substances, including carcinogens. These toxins can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled, posing a significant health threat. Research highlights the gravity of this issue. A study by the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) and the University of Central Lancashire found that firefighters have a mortality rate from all cancers that is 60% higher than the general population.

As Riccardo la Torre, FBU National Officer, stated, “No one should get ill from going to work, and firefighters deserve to go home at the end of their shift as safely and healthily as they begun it”.

This responsibility is shared. Improperly handled gear endangers the wearer and risks cross-contamination at the station and even at home. The sector’s guidance now emphasises the need for specialist decontamination after every exposure.

A Dependable Process for Decontamination and Care

At CLEAN, our service is built to address this challenge directly. We provide a fully managed care model designed to give PPE managers and incident commanders complete confidence that their team’s gear is returned fit for duty.

Our process begins before the wash even starts. Contaminated kit is collected and sealed in soluble bags, which dissolve during the decontamination cycle. This simple step minimises handling and contains harmful particulates from the point of collection.

We use Vimpex Lejon Kemi detergents, which have been proven in independent tests to remove up to 95% of cancer-causing contaminants from PPE. This is not just cleaning; it is evidence-based decontamination designed to protect the user.

Beyond the Wash: Our 15 Point Inspection Process

A garment’s protective capability relies on more than its cleanliness. Its structural integrity is paramount. That is why every item we process undergoes our comprehensive 15 Point Inspection Process, conducted by certified technicians.

This meticulous check assesses critical safety elements, including:

• Moisture Barrier Integrity: A compromised barrier can lead to serious injury, so we carry out integrity testing on every garment.
• Physical Condition: We check for rips, tears, and burns that could compromise safety.
• Component Functionality: Reflective trim, seams, wristlets, zips, and buckles are all meticulously checked to ensure they perform as they should.

When a repair is needed, it is carried out in our dedicated Repair Hub by technicians trained by the original garment manufacturer. We use only manufacturer-approved fabrics and components, and every repair is logged against the garment’s unique barcode. This creates a full and auditable history for every piece of kit in circulation.

Your Partner in Firefighter Safety

Ensuring that PPE is safe, compliant, and ready for use is a foundational element of operational readiness and firefighter welfare. By providing a reliable, transparent, and standards-compliant service, we act as a dependable partner to fire and rescue services across the UK.