Firefighter Turnout Gear & PPE – Reliable Reclosable Fasteners for Life-Saving Protection

Murray Fussell, May 2, 2019

Firefighters and rescue personnel depend on their firefighter turnouts to protect them in the most dangerous situations. These personal protective equipment (PPE) ensembles shield our dedicated service members from life-threatening elements like extreme heat, flames, and hazardous chemicals. Ensuring the reliability of heat resistant turnout gear is not just about compliance but about safeguarding lives.

To maintain their effectiveness, firefighter turnouts are routinely inspected, cleaned, and repaired. Regular care ensures performance, longevity, and adherence to strict safety standards, such as the National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) 1851 guidelines.

What is NFPA 1851?

NFPA 1851 outlines the requirements for the selection, care, and maintenance of firefighter PPE to minimize health and safety risks. This standard emphasizes proper maintenance to reduce contamination and damage risks associated with fireman turnouts. According to NFPA:

“This standard establishes requirements for the selection, care, and maintenance of firefighting protective ensembles to reduce health and safety risks associated with improper maintenance, contamination, or damage.”

For further details, visit the official NFPA 1851 page.

Selecting an ISP for PPE Maintenance and Cleaning

Departments often rely on Independent Service Providers (ISPs) or in-house programs for PPE care and cleaning. Regardless of the method chosen, compliance with NFPA 1851 is essential. Proper maintenance programs help ensure heat resistant turnout gear remains reliable under extreme conditions.

Learn more about selecting an ISP in Fire Rescue Magazine.

Hook and Loop Closures in Firefighter Turnouts

Hook and loop closures play a critical role in maintaining the functionality and safety of firefighter turnouts. These closures are used in turnout coats, pants, helmets, gloves, and footwear, providing reclosable solutions for ease of use and reliability.

However, due to the daily wear and tear that fireman turnouts endure, closures often require frequent replacement. Annual inspections frequently reveal failures in hook and loop systems caused by the constant rigors of firefighting.

Halco’s Innovative Hook and Loop Fastening Solutions

Halco has collaborated closely with OEMs and certified ISPs to address these challenges. Our Flame Retardant (FR) Hook and Loop closure systems are engineered to withstand the harshest conditions while offering a longer lifecycle than traditional options.

Key Benefits of Halco’s FR Hook and Loop Systems:

1. Heat and Flame Resistance: Tested to meet the rigorous demands of heat resistant turnout gear applications.
2. Extended Lifespan: Durable materials reduce the frequency of repairs, saving costs over the gear’s lifecycle.
3. Enhanced Reliability: Maintains secure closures under extreme conditions, ensuring safety and performance.
4. Versatility: Suitable for various applications, including turnout coats, helmets, and gloves.

Halco’s commitment to innovation ensures that our fastening solutions not only comply with industry standards but also enhance the overall performance and longevity of firefighter turnouts.

Why Choose Halco for Firefighter Turnouts?

Halco understands the critical nature of fireman turnouts and the importance of dependable fastening systems. Our FR Hook and Loop systems are tested and trusted by OEMs and ISPs for:

• Turnout Coats and Pants: Providing secure, adjustable closures.
• Helmets and Gloves: Ensuring fast, reliable attachment systems.
• Boots and Accessories: Offering robust solutions for challenging environments.

With our expertise, we’ve made it our mission to support firefighters with products that enhance their safety and enable them to perform at their best.

Learn More and Request Samples

Are you looking for advanced fastening solutions for heat resistant turnout gear or other firefighter PPE? Halco’s representatives are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our Flame Retardant Hook and Loop systems, request free samples, or discuss your specific needs. Together, we can help protect those who protect us.