Deconology® Explained: Simon Hunter on LCO2+ Dectamination

In this conversation, Simon Hunter Esq, M.B.E., CEO of Hunter Apparel Solutions Limited, sits down with former Assistant Chief Fire Officer of Kent Fire & Rescue Service, Chris Colgan. To explain why traditional water-based laundering cannot reach the nano-contaminants trapped in the waterproof breathable membranes of fire tunics, trousers, gloves and particulate-blocking hoods. These contaminants don't simply stay put: they gas off during operational activity and, through open pores during exertion, can enter a firefighter's bloodstream. Simon sets out the difference between conventional aqueous laundering, standard CO₂ treatment, and Hunter's advanced LCO₂+ process — Deconology® — which cleans and decontaminates PPE in a single closed-loop cycle with no water involved. Traditional water-based laundry methods only remove 15-40% of contaminants from PPE (based on studies from The Finnish Institute of Occupational Health). Hunter's Deconology® system achieves 99% removal of many harmful substances, while also protecting the integrity of the garments (based on NFPA testing). The discussion also covers: Why high-temperature aqueous washing shortens the working life of PPE How a closed-loop LCO₂+ system avoids contaminating human water supply The move towards presumptive legislation for firefighter cancer, already in place in the US, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and Norway Ongoing independent research, including the InToxFIRE programme at Ulster University