When is advanced cleaning necessary for cleaning PPE?

Advanced cleaning of personal protective equipment (PPE) becomes necessary particularly when the equipment has been exposed to products of combustion, which includes soot, toxic chemicals, and other hazardous materials encountered during firefighting operations. These contaminants can deeply embed themselves into the fibers of the PPE, presenting health risks to the wearer if not adequately removed.

While other situations, such as damage to the PPE, usage in a fire, or visible signs of wear, may indicate a need for cleaning or inspection, advanced cleaning specifically targets the removal of harmful residues resulting from combustion processes. This cleaning ensures that the PPE is not only visually clean but also free from dangerous contaminants that can compromise both the integrity of the gear and the safety of the firefighter.