The U.S Department of Homeland Security adopted eight National Fire Protection Association standards for first responder personal protective equipment. Three of the eight documents were adopted for the first time by DHS and the remaining five were re-adoptions of the latest editions of standards currently being recognized by DHS. The requirements set by the documents aid state and local procurement officials in selecting the best protective equipment available.

The standards will better protect first responders in emergencies involving chemical, biological and other hazards. The also will provide manufacturers with the necessary guidelines for designing, testing and certifying this equipment.

“NFPA has long been a strong advocate for equipment and protective clothing standards for first responders and continues to lead efforts in this area,” said NFPA President James M. Shannon. “These latest adoptions by DHS will go a long way in ensuring the safety of emergency personnel.”

The three newly adopted standards are NFPA 1982, Personal Alert Safety Systems; NFPA 2112, Flame-Resistant Garments for Protection of Industrial Personnel Against Flash Fire; and NFPA 2113, Selection, Care, Use, and Maintenance of Flame-Resistant Garments for Protection of Industrial Personnel Against Flash Fire.

The five standards re-adopted to the current editions are NFPA 1951, Protective Ensembles for Technical Rescue Operations; NFPA 1971, Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting; NFPA 1981, Open-Circuit Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus for Emergency Services; NFPA 1991, Vapor-Protective Ensembles for Hazardous Materials Emergencies; and NFPA 1994, Protective Ensembles for First Responders to CBRN Terrorism Incidents.

"DHS is committed to ensuring that the equipment which is purchased to protect first responders is the very best available.” said Bert M. Coursey, director of DHS Office of Standards. “The adoption of these NFPA standards sets requirements that help those manufacturing and purchasing this necessary equipment as well as those who depend on this equipment for their personal safety.”