ORIGINAL PAPER
Hazard of chemical substances contamination of protective clothing for firefighters – a survey on use and maintenance
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1
Central Institute for Labour Protection – National Research Institute, Łódź, Poland
(Department of Personal Equipment)
2
Central Institute for Labour Protection – National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland
(Department of Chemical, Biological and Aerosol Hazards)
Online publication date: 2021-12-09
Corresponding author
Sylwia Maria Krzemińska
Central Institute for Labour Protection – National Research Institute, Department of Personal Equipment,
Wierzbowa 48, 90-133 Łódź, Poland
Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2022;35(2):235-48
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ABSTRACT
Objectives: The objective of the work was to analyze the impact of selected factors concerning the use and maintenance of firefighters’ protective
clothing worn during rescue operations on the hazard of contamination by chemical substances. Material and Methods: The participants were
firefighters (N = 688) from rescue and firefighting units of the State Fire Service in Poland, aged <30, 31–40, 41–50 or >60 years, with different
seniority: up to >21 years of service. The survey questionnaire developed by the authors was used. The questionnaire was available online. The Statistica
10.0 statistical package using the χ2 test was applied in the analysis of the significance of the results. Results: As reported by the vast majority
(>60%) of the firefighters, the maintenance was carried out after recording an average or a high level of contamination. It was pointed out that
removal of the contaminants from protective clothing was difficult (83%). The surfaces of the legs and sleeves of protective clothing were the most
contaminated areas. A feeling of discomfort was observed (90%) after returning from firefighting operations due to fire, smoke, or combustion
residues. Conclusions: It is necessary to conduct training and information actions concerning the use and maintenance of protective clothing and
the harmfulness of chemicals contaminating the garments used by firefighters. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2022;35(2):235–48