Transforming station-based PPE decontamination
After attending a fire, harmful toxins, carcinogens, and pathogens can remain on firefighter kit for many hours afterwards, posing significant health risks for firefighting crews. It is vital that all PPE is cleaned swiftly and effectively, and that protocols are followed to minimise exposure.
Many fire stations now have dedicated decontamination rooms, where worn PPE can be contained and cleaned. Trusted by fire services across the world, Rescue Intellitech’s comprehensive suite of specialist washers and dryers has been developed specifically for these environments, offering a complete station-based solution for cleaning PPE efficiently and safely, ready for the next call-out.
Decontamination machines for SCBA, boots, helmets and gloves
Cleaning firefighting PPE with a Solo Rescue machine is quick and easy. After an incident, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), face masks, boots, gloves and helmets, can be thoroughly decontaminated within minutes.
At the heart of the Solo Rescue is an innovative rotating basket system. As the basket turns, water flows to hard-to-reach areas where contaminants can accumulate, such as the intricate surfaces of SCBA breathing valves and regulators, as well as the fabric seams and crevices in the harness and backplate. A selection of equipment holders allows different PPE combinations to be washed together. The control panel offers a simple choice between a rapid three-minute cycle for gloves and boots or an eight-minute cycle for SCBA, face masks, and helmets.
For smaller fire stations, the streamlined DeconWasher Pro S version delivers the same wash performance but is more compact in size. The smart design uses rotating wash arms and high water flow to thoroughly clean and rinse dirty kit, removing harmful soot particles and residue.
Both washers can be fitted with the optional DeconFilter Pro S attachment, a multi-stage filtration unit with a lint filter, particle filters and an active carbon filter. This prevents harmful substances from entering the wastewater system, supporting environmental compliance.
Washing machines for firefighter clothing
Rescue Intellitech’s DE Series washing machines have been specifically designed to decontaminate firefighter clothing and specialist garments. Offering a choice of 15 pre-programmed wash cycles suitable for everything from heavy-duty textiles to delicate technical fabrics, these gentle but effective machines help to preserve the integrity of valuable PPE, extending its lifespan and maintaining its protective capabilities.
Three different sizes are available, enabling fire services to scale to their operational needs. Energy and water efficient, they ensure the washing process is both cost-effective and environmentally-friendly.
Drying Cabinets for all PPE
Following washing, PPE should be dried correctly and carefully to avoid moisture-related deterioration or damage. Rescue Intellitech’s fast and efficient drying cabinets offer rapid but gentle drying without mechanical action, which helps protect the integrity of specialist materials, seams and reflective trims. Both the interior and exterior of the PPE is dried at the same time, so kit is quickly ready for use.
Fire and rescue services can choose between two different sizes, the larger DC20 and the smaller DC8, to suit their requirements and space.
The dryers can be specifically configured to accommodate bulky kit and equipment, with a combination of shelves and hanging space suitable for clothing, boots, gloves, helmets and SCBA. The DC20 features specialised hangers allowing airflow from the inside to accelerate the drying process.
A complete decontamination system
Reliable decontamination of firefighter PPE has become essential to safeguarding long-term health. Rescue Intellitech’s suite of washers and dryers delivers safe and effective cleaning, with rapid turn-around times that help kit return to service quickly. At the same time, the gentle, purpose-built technology preserves the performance and lifespan of valuable textiles and equipment. Together, this equipment offers a scalable, all-encompassing, station-friendly solution that prioritises health, efficiency and cost-effective care of critical PPE.
For more information visit rescueintellitech.com website