Clean PPE saves lives
Firefighting is a risky job. Aside from the immediate dangers of heat and flame, there are also invisible threats that linger long after the fire is out. Toxic residues from smoke can cling to personal protective equipment (PPE), posing serious long-term health risks.
Research commissioned by the Fire Brigades Union recommends that PPE be thoroughly decontaminated after every incident.
Rescue Intellitech is a leading provider of innovative PPE cleaning solutions and is helping fire and rescue services (FRSs) around the world tackle this head-on to improve firefighter health, safety and wellbeing. Unlike conventional commercial washers and driers, its equipment has been purpose-built for firefighter PPE.
Its SoloRescue® and DeconWasher Pro S decontamination machines are designed to clean firefighter helmets, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), gloves, and boots both swiftly and effectively. Gentle, precision water jets reach even the most inaccessible areas, ensuring contaminants are removed without compromising the integrity of equipment.
Catering for all station-based decontamination needs, Rescue Intellitech has also recently introduced new washing machines for firefighter clothing and advanced drying cabinets that dry PPE quickly and efficiently.
On-site decontamination using specialist washers and dryers offers a complete on-site cleaning solution for FRSs. All items of PPE can be efficiently cleaned, dried, and returned to service within hours.
Rescue Intellitech’s Solo Rescue® PPE decontamination washers are transforming the way FRSs clean firefighter PPE, making the whole process more affordable, safe, and easy.
Buckinghamshire FRS has installed several Solo Rescue® PPE decontamination washers for its SCBA. Aaron Ridgley, Station Commander at Buckinghamshire FRS explains:
“All of our firefighters have personal issue jackets, trousers, gloves, boots, helmet and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) face mask. Keeping them clean is extremely important because of the health risks associated with contaminated PPE.
“We decided to automate the breathing apparatus washing process and in 2023, invested in three Solo Rescue® decontamination washers from Rescue Intellitech. These compact machines decontaminate PPE equipment in just eight minutes and are really easy to use. We have since invested in three more machines, taking our total to six.
“The team at Rescue Intellitech walked us through the whole process and are always at the end of the phone if we have any issues. They provided thorough training and service the machines annually to ensure they are continually fit for purpose.”
“Firefighter feedback has been really positive. When they first used the machine, they were quite taken aback by how clean their PPE equipment is – it is really noticeable! They also note how straightforward it is to use, helped by the clear instructions on the front of the machine.”
For more infornation please visit website rescueintellitech.com
