22 Jun 2009

The MT94 ensemble was chosen by Northern Ireland FRS to protect its firefighters during CBRN incidents
Lion Apparel's Tactix MT94 ensemble chosen after extensive testing

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service has chosen Lion Apparel's Tactix® MT94 multi-wear ensemble to protect its firefighters when dealing with a CBRN incident.

The decision was made after the brigade undertook three months of extensive garment trials to test every aspect of the suit's performance in an operational environment.

"There is undoubtedly a wide choice of CBRN garments out there, offering different characteristics which impact on their wear ability and ease of use," said John McGrath, supplies and logistics managers of the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service. "I believe that a single layer suit is an essential component in a comprehensive CBRN protection arsenal and can play a vital role in search and rescue operations which require a high-comfort, longer use garment."

"Following extensive trials, we found that Lion Apparel's MT94 effectively met our needs, giving us significant versatility of response in the event of an incident. I would have no hesitation in recommending the MT94 to anyone who is serious about CBRN protection," McGrath said.

"What separates the MT94 from all other chemically protective ensembles is its combination of durability, mobility, safety and comfort, said Alex McAllister, manager of technical sales for Lion Apparel. "It allows the wearer to do more and can be employed for multiple wears as long as it hasn't been exposed or contaminated."

The MT94 ensemble employs GORE® CHEMPAK® Ultra Barrier fabric with a tough NOMEX® outer shell. When combined with the streamlined design of the suit, it delivers outstanding protection and creates a significant reduction in weight and bulk. This allows for a greater range of motion, increased mobility and ease in donning and doffing.

The MT94 is certified to: BS EN 8467:2006 category B; BS EN 943:2002. It is CE Approved; and meets the NFPA 1994 Standard on Protective Ensembles for First Responder to CBRN Terrorism Incidents, Class 2; and the NFPA 1992 Standard on Liquid-Splash Protective Ensembles and Clothing for Hazardous Materials Emergencies.