Gear Wash News
Gear Wash, a subsidiary of Fire-Dex, announces the launch of CO2 Contaminant Cleaning Technology as an option for firefighter gear cleaning. This innovative service offers firefighters and first responders a new method of gear sanitization that enhances traditional water-based cleaning. PPE care and maintenance “Gear Wash is the world’s largest verified Independent Service Provider for PPE care and maintenance, and CO2 technology ensures that our service options remain at the cutt...
It's time to walk through a step-by-step overview of how to clean the helmet effectively. Proper fire helmet maintenance is crucial for both exposure reduction and extending the life of the gear. So, let's dive into the process and ensure the helmet is in top-notch condition. Safety First Before embarking on the cleaning journey, it's important to prioritize safety. The individual cleaning the helmet should don a pair of examination gloves, an apron, and safety glasses or gogg...
Lithium-ion batteries, hailed for their high energy density and widespread use in devices ranging from smartphones to electric vehicles, have undoubtedly transformed daily lives. However, as these batteries offer a new convenience, it's imperative to understand and address the potential risks associated with their usage. Let's dive into the common issues linked to lithium-ion batteries and they will provide detailed safety tips to ensure responsible usage. Additionally, they'll explore pr...
Firefighting Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) includes turnout gear, helmets, gloves, and boots, all designed to protect them from the intense heat, smoke, and hazardous materials they encounter on the job. Properly maintained PPE is essential not only for the safety of the firefighter but also for the success of firefighting operations. Reduced Thermal Protection Firefighters depend on the insulating properties of their PPE to withstand extreme temperatures. Improper washing can co...
The fire service is known for its brave and selfless firefighters who risk their lives to protect communities from the ravages of fire and other emergencies. However, there's a hidden danger that poses a significant threat to the health and well-being of these heroes – breast cancer. Breast cancer in the fire service is a pressing issue that deserves attention. Although the gender shift has been significant, breast cancer can show up in men as well. Explore the challenges faced by firefig...
While many firefighters own their gear, there are several reasons to consider renting bunker gear. Explore the flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and hassle-free maintenance that come with renting, ensuring they're equipped for every mission without compromising on safety or convenience. 1. Cleaning and Repairs One compelling reason to consider rental PPE is the convenience it offers, when it comes to cleaning and repairs. When the primary gear is sent for cleaning or requires repairs, havin...
Firefighters put their lives on the line to protect the communities, facing various risks in their line of duty. To ensure safety, it's crucial that the gear remains in top-notch condition. 3M™ Scotchlite™ Reflective Material, Series 5680 Fire Coat Comfort Trim, plays a significant role in enhancing visibility during firefighting operations. However, like any other equipment, wear and tear may occur over time, necessitating proper inspection and repairs. Here are some ways to...
Firefighters selflessly put themselves in harm's way to protect others, and as covered before, their noble actions come with significant risks, including exposure to a multitude of hazardous contaminants. Understanding the sources and pathways of exposure is crucial for developing effective preventive measures and protocols to mitigate these risks. Enhanced training, improved gear, regular medical monitoring, and strict decontamination procedures are essential for safeguarding the health and w...
At Gear Wash, the main priority is keeping the department safe and healthy by keeping gear clean and ready for the next firefight. Throughout Mental Health Awareness Month, they want to emphasize that supporting those who serve them is valuable and needed. The first way to break down the stigma of Post Traumatic Stress in the fire service is to understand what it looks like. Studies estimate that about 20 percent of firefighters will experience symptoms at some point during their...
One of the biggest topics within the fire industry in the last few years has been cancer prevention and awareness. Everyone knows the importance of this, but what is something that can be targeted immediately, to prevent preliminary exposure after being on scene? NFPA 1851 specifies the recommended actions for the cleaning and drying of turnout gear. It defines three types of cleaning: preliminary exposure reduction, advanced, and specialized, which regard hazmat contaminants. Let&r...
From a single pair of gloves to thousands of protective garments delivered to fire departments around the world, Fire-Dex has grown from small beginnings to become a leading provider of lifesaving gear. Currently, 40 years old and currently the country’s fastest-growing manufacturer of PPE for first responders, the company has consistently led through customer-driven product innovation and a focus on family that starts at the factory. reputation for safety “We are incredibly fortu...
Where does the department keep PPE when not in service? Lockers in the bay, exposed to UV rays and exhaust emissions? If so, it’s time to reconsider how the gear is being stored. Making sure that the PPE is stowed correctly is a perfect example of how users can lessen the risk of damage in the future. Proper NFPA storage Needs Before storing, the garments should be clean and dry - avoiding contact with contaminants, such as oils, solvents, acids, or alkalis. The storage areas must be...
Gear Wash is excited to announce the promotion of three associates and welcome one member to the Fire-Dex and Gear Wash Family! Michelle Guthrie has been with Fire-Dex for 15 years and has been promoted several times, most recently from Warehouse Supervisor to Production Planner. New appointments Gear Wash has also recently promoted two associates – Debbie Roberts and Karina Suquilema. Debbie will serve as Operations Supervisor at the Atlanta location and Karina will serve a...
Fire-Dex and Gear Wash are extending aid to customers affected by Hurricane Ian and the continuous recovery effort that is ongoing throughout Florida. Including critical PPE equipment and discounted cleaning and repair services to keep protective gear in top shape, the two companies are working closely with task force rescue units as they continue to meet the needs created by the natural disaster. donating gear for assistance “Thousands of rescue workers are braving...
They're pleased to announce the Minerva acquisition adds six locations to the expansive coast-to-coast equipment care network serving thousands of fire departments! Gear Wash is now the firefighting industry’s largest turnout gear cleaning and repair operation, having acquired Minerva Bunker Gear Cleaners and its six locations. The agreement, which closed on May 13, also marks our largest Gear Wash acquisition to date and greatly expands the company’s growin...
Taylor Burke Gilman, the President at Gear Wash, highlights when departments should consider renting fire gear in a guest spot from Carolina Fire Journal. NFPA 1851 recommendations The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1851 guidelines recommend two cleanings per year for turnout gear. All departments know the importance of proper care and maintenance for firefighting protective garments, but what can be done when primary helmets, jackets, pants, gloves, and boots...
The longevity of the turnout gear and its effectiveness against carcinogens relies heavily on one factor: proper maintenance. Firefighters handle dangerous materials regularly and the turnout gear can pick up several highly toxic contaminants. Keeping up with maintenance on the turnout gear can help users in three ways: Reduce the risk of being exposed (or exposing someone else) to carcinogens. Save the department money. Extend the usable life of the garments. Negative effects T...
Adjust accordingly to best suit unique incidents or the department’s protocol. Before a fire call 1) Invest in individually customized PPE that is properly fitted to each firefighter. When budget allows, consider particulate barrier hoods; light, breathable turnouts; and a set of alternative PPE for non-structural calls (this may also reduce heat stress and cardiac fatigue). 2) Stock the apparatus with decon supplies, including: 5-gallon bucket A hose with a small nozzle Scrub bru...
NFPA 1851 is the standard for PPE selection, care, and maintenance. The purpose of this standard is to reduce health and safety risks associated with improper maintenance, contamination, or damage like exposure to harmful carcinogens that are often present in structural fires. Sometimes it's hard to get to an ISP to get the cleanings done. That's why they've created a guide to walk through the proper cleaning for the turnout gear. Step 1: Preparation To begin, don the necessary un...
Everyone knows cleaning turnout gear twice a year is recommended by the NFPA, but do users think about hoods too? It's easy to forget this small piece of gear, but that doesn't make it any less important! Follow these 4 quick and easy steps to get the fire hood properly cleaned. Step by Step Tools Needed: Examination gloves, apron, & safety glasses. A large utility tub or programmable extractor that doesn't have a G-Force that exceeds 100 G. Step 1: Preparation Observe nec...
Fire-Dex is excited to announce the promotions of three members of the Fire-Dex Family and the addition of two new associates! Elizabeth Martinez, Amber McCloud, and Misty Rackley have all received recent promotions. Elizabeth has been promoted to HR Business Partner at Gear Wash, Amber has been appointed to IT Systems Manager, and Misty has been promoted to Production Supervisor at their Pelham, Georgia location. New hires Fire-Dex is currently hiring multiple positions across several...
Fire-Dex continues to seek new talent as they experience tremendous growth, while strengthening corporate culture among their team members. Kelsey McKinley, Contract Administrator, Holly Banos, Territory Sales Representative, and Dan Maynard, Supply Chain Coordinator, have all been onboarded in recent weeks. "We’re very excited to welcome Kelsey, Holly, and Dan to the Fire-Dex Family,” states Jamie Marks, Human Resources Manager at Fire-Dex, Inc., adding “Becomin...
Gear Wash is now the firefighting industry’s largest turnout gear cleaning and repair operation, having acquired Minerva Bunker Gear Cleaners and its six locations. The agreement, which closed on May 13, also marks the largest Gear Wash acquisition to date and greatly expands our company’s growing roster of service providers committed to first-class care for the equipment worn by firefighters. “Minerva has been a leader in NFPA 1851 services—the indus...
Fire-Dex announces the acquisition of Marken PPE Restoration, a UL verified Independent Service Provider (ISP) of clean and repair services based out of Las Vegas, Nevada. This business is the third ISP Fire-Dex has acquired, following the purchase of Gear Wash in 2019 and Done Right Fire Gear in 2020. This acquisition will allow the company to expand its efforts to provide clean and repair services to departments in untouched regions throughout the West. Making solid connections The broad se...
