Emergency Technical Decon’s Best Decontamination Practices

By: Emergency Technical Decon Team

Firefighters risk their lives to protect others, but their gear often comes back from the field carrying harmful substances that pose long-term health risks. Contaminants like carcinogens, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) can embed themselves in turnout gear, putting firefighters at heightened risk for cancer and other health issues. Traditional water-based cleaning methods simply aren’t enough to address these dangers effectively. Emergency Technical Decon offers a revolutionary solution with its Liquid CO2+ cleaning process, setting a new standard for gear decontamination, safety, and sustainability.

The Limitations of Water-Based Cleaning

Water has been the standard cleaning agent for turnout gear for decades, but it has significant limitations:

• Waterproof Design of Gear: Turnout gear is designed to repel water, making it difficult for traditional methods to penetrate the layers where contaminants reside.
• Limited Effectiveness: Studies show that water-based cleaning methods only achieve 15–40% efficiency in removing embedded contaminants.
• Hazardous Waste: Water-based cleaning often generates wastewater containing harmful chemicals, which can contribute to toxic runoff and environmental damage.
• Gear Degradation: Repeated water washes, especially at high temperatures, can degrade the protective materials in turnout gear, reducing its lifespan and effectiveness.

These challenges demonstrate the need for an advanced solution like ETD’s Liquid CO2+ cleaning process.

What Sets Liquid CO2+ Apart

ETD’s Liquid CO2+ cleaning system is designed to address the shortcomings of traditional methods while prioritizing firefighter safety and environmental responsibility. This innovative process combines liquid carbon dioxide with environmentally safe additives to deliver superior decontamination without compromising gear integrity.

Advantages of Liquid CO2+ Cleaning

1. Unmatched Decontamination Efficiency
   • The Liquid CO2+ system removes up to 100% of embedded contaminants, including PFAS, PAHs, and biological hazards. This level of thoroughness is critical for reducing exposure to cancer-causing substances.
2. Preservation of Gear Integrity
   • Unlike water-based methods, the Liquid CO2+ process is gentle on turnout gear, preserving its structural integrity and extending its lifespan by up to 40% longer.
3. No Hazardous Waste
   • The system operates in a closed-loop, capturing and reusing 99% of the liquid CO2 used during the cleaning process. All contaminants are safely captured within the machine and disposed of according to strict environmental standards, eliminating toxic runoff and wastewater.
4. Environmental Sustainability
   • Liquid CO2+ cleaning uses zero water and significantly less energy compared to traditional methods, making it an eco-friendly choice. The liquid CO2 used in the system is recycled, further supporting a sustainable circular economy.
5. Compliance with NFPA Standards
   • The process meets and exceeds NFPA 1851 standards, ensuring that gear is decontaminated to the highest safety requirements.

Emergency Technical Decon’s Liquid CO2+ Cleaning Process

ETD’s process is designed for maximum efficiency and safety, ensuring gear is thoroughly decontaminated and ready for use.

1. Consultation and Logistics
   • ETD collaborates with fire departments to understand their needs and schedules. Gear is shipped to ETD’s state-of-the-art facility using secure and convenient methods.
2. Inspection and Preparation
   • Upon arrival, each piece of gear is inspected for damage. Repairs are noted and completed before cleaning to ensure the gear is fully functional.
3. Advanced Cleaning
   • The gear is placed in the Liquid CO2+ cleaning machine, where liquid carbon dioxide penetrates every layer of fabric. The closed-loop system captures all contaminants, leaving no harmful residue or waste.
4. Post-Cleaning Inspection
   • After cleaning, gear undergoes another thorough inspection to ensure it meets safety and performance standards.
5. Safe Return
   • Once cleaned, inspected, and repaired, the gear is securely shipped back, ready for use with enhanced protection and cleanliness.

Why Liquid CO2+ Is the Future

Firefighters face enough risks on the job without adding the long-term health consequences of contaminated gear. ETD’s Liquid CO2+ system offers a safer, more effective alternative to water-based methods. By investing in this technology, fire departments can:

• Protect their firefighters from harmful exposure.
• Reduce environmental impact by eliminating hazardous waste.
• Extend the lifespan of turnout gear, saving costs in the long run.

Emergency Technical Decon: A Commitment to Safety and Sustainability

At ETD, we believe that protecting those who protect us starts with innovation. Our Liquid CO2+ cleaning system represents a step forward in firefighter safety, environmental stewardship, and operational excellence. By choosing ETD, fire departments are investing in a solution that prioritizes health, safety, and sustainability—without compromise.

Interested in learning more about our services or scheduling a consultation? Visit ETD’s website to discover how Liquid CO2+ cleaning can transform your department’s approach to decontamination.