Purpose: The purpose of this SOG is to create a uniform procedure on the use and care of personal protective equipment.

Policy: Department issued PPE shall be worn at all emergency incidents and training evolutions, with the exception of first responder EMS calls. Appropriate body substance isolation and protective equipment shall be used on such EMS calls.

Personally owned turnout gear shall not be worn without specific permission from the Chief.

Fire Department personnel shall be issued personal protective equipment (PPE). The protective equipment shall consist of a helmet, hood, coat, trousers, boots and gloves. A cargo bag for transporting and protecting the equipment shall also be issued.

Care & Maintenance of PPE

1. Members are responsible for inspecting for the serviceability, cleanliness and proper fit of PPE assigned to them. This should be done on a monthly basis. Members who notice discrepancies with their assigned PPE shall inform the PPE Coordinator. PPE shall not be altered.
2. Read and follow the care and laundering instructions on the label.

USE of PPE

Structural firefighting PPE shall be worn by members working at structure fires and other incidents where the possibilities of being affected by the products of combustion exist. The PPE is meant to be worn all-inclusive of its parts: helmet, hood, coat, trousers, boots and gloves. During the overhaul and investigative phases of an incident, a modification of the PPE ensemble may be used if approved by the officers-in-charge. At no point during overhaul or investigation will a helmet or gloves be optional.

During periods of warm weather, when working a MVC or a tactical rescue, flashover resistant coveralls such as those found on the squad truck are encouraged.

If appropriate, PPE shall be worn when performing station duties.