Chesapeake Fire Department
QA  Program   

Fire Training Topic  1

Protective Clothing
Functions / Care / Maintenance 

The firefighter shall identify the functions and demonstrate the care, use, inspection, and maintenance of the protective clothing and equipment assigned.

Reference :  IFSTA Essentials of Firefighting, 3^rd Edition

Performance Objectives :  The firefighter, given all personal protective equipment shall demonstrate the function,   care, inspection and maintenance of the equipment as recommended by Department specifications and SOP.

Performance Evaluation :  The evaluator shall have the firefighter inspect each piece of equipment noting the function and any problems or items needing correction.  The firefighter shall also demonstrate the proper procedure for maintenance, and care. 

 Helmet with Eye Shield

Properly identifies parts of helmet
Protects the head from impact
Protects from heat and cold
Protects the face and eyes when SCBA is not required

Checks the helmet for damage  --  straps, liner, suspension web, hardware shield
Checks helmet for proper fit
Properly cleans helmet of dirt, grease, tar, oil
Checks for reflective markings and helmet magnets

Hood

Properly identifies use and donning procedure
Protects the ears, neck, and face from exposure to extreme heat

Checks for damage to hood
Demonstrates proper cleaning procedures

Protective Coats and Pants

Protects the body from exposure to extreme heat
Protects the body from exposure from hazards and pathogens
Protects the body from weather conditions

Checks coat for damage to outer shell, inner liner, and hardware
Checks pants for damage to outer shell, inner liner, and hardware
Explains proper procedure for cleaning gear  --  spot decon and machine wash

 Gloves

Protects the hands from extreme heat
Protects the hands from cuts and abrasions
Protects the hands from weather conditions

Protects the hands from hazards and pathogens
Checks gloves for damage – tears, rips, holes, shrinkage
Explains proper care and cleaning procedure

Boots

Properly identifies parts of boot
Protects foot form falling objects, burns and puncture wounds
Must have steel toe and shank

Checks boots for damage, tears, tips, holes, proper fit
Demonstrates proper decon and washing procedures
Stores boots in proper location

Latex / Nitral Gloves

Protects firefighter from blood borne pathogens
Protects skins from contaminants – oils, grease, paint, cleaning solutions

Check glove pouch for rips, tears, damaged velcro
Demonstrate proper doffing of contaminated gloves

Self Contained Breathing Apparatus

Protects firefighter’s lungs from hazardous environments
Protects from air borne particles
Protects the face and eyes from foreign objects
Quik-Fil hose provides air transfer

Checks unit pressure
Checks unit operation, alarms and lights
Checks harness straps and belt for damage
Checks Quik-Fil hose operation and damage