Fire Proximity Suits

Definition

          Fire proximity suits are clothing for use by firefighters while approaching fire where it is very difficult to tolerate the temperature.

Types of suits

• Approach suit – 200⁰F
• Rescue suit – up to 700⁰F
• Entry suit – 700⁰F and above

There are 2 types of fire:

1. Structural fire
2. Proximity fire

Components

i. Full hand Jacket

ii. Trouser

iii. Hood with vision

iv. Footwear (Boots)

v. Hand Gloves

Material of Construction

i. Asbestos

ii. Aluminised Fabric

Precautions in use:

i.      Use a Breathing Apparatus Set in case the environment is contaminated with poisonous gases or vapor.

ii.    Use of lifeline one end of which is held by another person while working in confined spaces.

iii. Never exceed the temperature recommended by the supplier.

To enable firefighting teams to approach the seat of fire and to carry out rescue duties they should have adequate protection against the effect of smoke and heat.

Each outfit should consist of:

· Breathing apparatus.

·   Water resisting protective clothing to protect the skin from fire, burns and scalding to steam.

· Boots and Gloves of rubber or other electrically non-conducting material.

· Rigid helmet.

· An electric intrinsically safe hand lamp with a minimum of 03 hours duration.

· An axe with a short, insulated handle.

· A strong fireproof lifeline (36 meter each, 2 numbers).

· A belt for carrying the ancillary equipment.

Material used.

            · Aramide such as Nomex, Kevlar

            · Poly-Benzimidazol Fibres

            · Self extinguishing

3 layers

            1st Layer.
Outer layer with Nomex/Kevlar having Aluminizol finish and puncture resistance.

            2st Layer.
Thermal barrier and moisture barrier protects from heat and water usually made from PTFE film. (Where, PTFE – Poly Tetra Ethane Film)

            3st Layer.
Inner layer made of wool.

Protective trousers are of 3 layers.

        Outer                    (to evacuate water during fire fighting)

        Moisture barrier     (repel water to protect thermal barrier)

        Thermal barrier     (used to protect heat during fire fighting)

 Proximity suit contains:

            · Aircraft Rescue & Fire Fighting Boots (ARFF boots)

            · Proximity helmet

            · Proximity gloves

            · Aluminized coat

            · Aluminized trousers