4110 Butler Pike, Suite A-103 Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania 19462, United States
Cleaning
Our Washing System
We use UniMac Industrial Washers (pictured) that are designed and programmed specifically for the fire industry. We use different settings for washing shells and liners.
The detergent we use is commercial grade and is specially formulated for effectively removing heavy metals, toxic chemicals, and semi-volatile organic compounds. It is also environmentally friendly.
In addition to liquid detergent, we use an ozone system for all wash cycles for optimal cleaning. Ozone helps to remove odors and loosen small particulates from the gear material. Our cleaning system kills 99.99% of bacteria.
The Importance of Having Clean Gear
Preventing Cross-Contamination: Firefighters are exposed to a wide range of harmful substances, including carcinogens and other contaminants. If not properly cleaned, these substances can linger on the gear and potentially contaminate other areas, such as living quarters, personal vehicles, and even the firefighters' families. Professional washing ensures that the gear is thoroughly cleaned, minimizing exposure to carcinogens and protecting both the firefighters and the broader community.
- Plastics and synthetics are more common in today’s households, making residential fires more dangerous due to an increase in toxic and carcinogenic combustion products.
- Unsafe contaminants and dangerous smoke particulates easily penetrate turnout gear and are quickly absorbed in the layers of fabric.
- For every five-degree increase in skin temperature, absorption of harmful matter increases by 400%, so it is important to fight fires with clean gear.
- A study in 2016 found that cancer was responsible for 70% of all line-of-duty deaths among career firefighters. Make sure you don't prolong your exposure to carcinogens and please send your gear in for professional cleaning.
Our Cleaning Policy
Please note that we uphold a strict standard for clear gear. If you send in your gear for repair, the gear must be clean in order for us to work on it. This is in compliance with OSHA standards for the health and safety of our workers.
Useful Sources
- NFPA 1851: Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting
- Firefighter Cancer Support Network
- U.S. Fire Administration