Custom PPE Firefighting Suit

How do PPE Firefighting Suit protect firefighters from heat and flames?

Firefighting Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including PPE Firefighting Suit, are designed to protect firefighters from the hazards associated with fires, including heat and flames. 
Thermal insulation: Firefighting suits are made from multiple layers of heat-resistant materials such as aramid fibers (e.g., Nomex), PBI (polybenzimidazole), and other flame-resistant synthetic materials. These materials provide thermal insulation, which helps to reduce the transfer of heat from the external environment to the firefighter's body.
Moisture barrier: Many firefighting suits incorporate a moisture barrier layer, typically made of materials like Gore-Tex or PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene). This barrier prevents water and other liquids from penetrating the suit while allowing moisture vapor (sweat) to escape, helping to keep firefighters dry and comfortable.
Flame resistance: The materials used in firefighting suits are chosen for their flame-resistant properties. These materials are engineered to withstand exposure to flames and high temperatures without igniting or melting. Additionally, the seams of the suit are often reinforced and sealed to prevent heat and flames from penetrating through gaps.
Reflective components: Many firefighting suits feature reflective trim or stripes that enhance visibility in low-light conditions. These reflective components not only make firefighters more visible to their colleagues but also help to reflect radiant heat away from the body.
Structural design: Firefighting suits are often designed with features such as a high collar, wrist closures, and a storm flap over the zipper to provide additional protection and prevent heat and flames from entering the suit through openings.
Helmet, gloves, and boots: In addition to the main firefighting suit, firefighters also wear specialized helmets, gloves, and boots that are designed to withstand high temperatures and protect against heat and flame exposure to the head, hands, and feet.

How do properly don and doff a PPE Firefighting Suit?

Properly donning (putting on) and doffing (taking off) a PPE Firefighting Suit is critical for firefighter safety. Here's a general guideline on how to do it:
Donning:
Prepare: Ensure that the PPE firefighting suit is clean and in good condition before donning. Remove any objects from pockets.
Wear Undergarments: Put on appropriate fire-resistant undergarments, such as Nomex or similar materials.
Put on Boots: Wear fire-resistant boots and ensure they are properly secured.
Put on Pants: Step into the pants of the firefighting suit. Pull them up and ensure a snug fit around the waist.
Put on Jacket: Put on the jacket portion of the suit. Zip it up fully or secure it according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Gloves: Put on fire-resistant gloves, ensuring they cover the wrists and properly interface with the sleeves of the jacket.
Helmet: Secure the firefighting helmet on your head, ensuring it fits snugly and doesn't obstruct your vision or movement.
SCBA (Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus): If required, don your SCBA unit, ensuring it's properly attached, and the straps are adjusted for a secure fit.
Radio and Other Equipment: If applicable, attach your radio and other necessary equipment to your suit or gear, ensuring they are properly secured and easily accessible.
Doffing:
Safe Area: Move to a safe area away from the hazard or fire.
Remove SCBA: If wearing an SCBA unit, remove it first. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper removal.
Decontamination: If exposed to hazardous materials, decontaminate the outer layer of the suit before removing it.
Gloves: Remove gloves by grasping them at the cuff and pulling them off, being careful not to touch the outer surface.
Helmet: Remove the firefighting helmet, ensuring it doesn't snag on any part of the suit.
Jacket and Pants: Remove the jacket and pants together if possible, pulling them down and stepping out of them.
Boots: Remove the fire-resistant boots, being careful not to touch the outer surface with your bare hands.
Inspect and Store: Inspect the PPE firefighting suit for any damage or contamination. Clean and store it properly according to departmental procedures.