Extrication Gear

[rescueal]

We at our department are still using full turn-out/bunker gear for performing vehicle extrications. (gear is from globe) we understand the need for a heat/flame retardent gear. but our concern is more towards a gear that is blood born pathogern, some form of flame retardent and light. we are a hospital based EMS/EMS Rescue system that is responsible for vehicle extrications involving patients. We are looking for a lighter gear that would meet the requirements for this line of work. is any gear out there that meet this? we have seen extrication suits advirtised, but they have no information available. any help? this heavy gear is killing us all during those hot days, and it is worse when we perform multiple assignments/extrications during our shift.
UH EMS

[ 08-14-2001: Message edited by: Albert Almeida ]

[Bruskiz]

My dept is looking at the same thing. NFPA 1951 addresses the type of gear you are looking for. I know Gore Inc(Gore-Tex) is supposed to be making a fabric called CrossTech S/R or Crosstech Nomex to meet NFPA 1951, being both blood-bourne pathogen and flame retardent. Globe EMSI think will probably have this available soon. Another company that I think has something available now is Richochet Gear

[NCRSQ751]

You might also want to look into wildland gear. It's light and if you get a lot of brush fires it can be dual purpose. We have used it for several years on extrications and think it's wonderful. There are several manufacturers out there, if you'd like the info on ours email me.

[Firescueguy]

Check out www.fire-rescueoutfitters.com, click the protective clothing link, then click on Extrication Gear. You'll find both a jumpsuit (1st in the industry designed specifically for auto extrication) as well as a 2 piece set. Both are offered in lightweight Nomex or FR (flame retardant) Cotton. Hope this helps you out. Stay Safe.