By: ETD Sewing & Repair Team
At Emergency Technical Decon, repairing firefighter turnout gear isn’t just about sewing; it’s about safety. Our in-house team of technicians is trained to uphold the highest standards of NFPA 1851 compliance, making sure every repaired item is field-ready, reliable, and safe to wear. Here’s what departments often ask about gear repairs, and how our team responds.
Q: What types of repairs does your team typically perform on turnout gear?
A: We handle everything from patching tears and reinforcing worn areas to replacing zippers, hook-and-loop closures, reflective trim, and hardware. We also handle pocket reattachments, moisture barrier repairs, and other detailed restoration tasks. No matter the job, our first step is always to inspect the gear to see if the repair will return it to a safe, compliant condition.
Q: How do you ensure the repairs meet NFPA 1851 standards?
A: Every member of our team is trained to follow NFPA 1851 guidance. We use only certified materials, like Kevlar thread, NFPA-compliant trim, and moisture barriers, and follow inspection protocols before and after repairs. If a repair doesn’t bring the gear back to standard, we’ll flag it for retirement rather than risk the firefighter’s safety.
Q: Do you ever recommend not repairing something?
A: Absolutely. Sometimes, the damage is too extensive or compromises structural integrity. We never “repair just to repair.” Our goal is to keep gear safely in service when possible, but we’re just as quick to recommend retirement if that’s the safer choice. We’d rather be honest about what can’t be fixed than send gear back into the field that could put someone at risk.
Q: How do you track what’s been repaired or replaced?
A: We log every repair detail into our system, from the type of damage to the exact components replaced. Departments receive full documentation as part of the NFPA 1851 recordkeeping requirements. We also track our work with heat-pressed labels in every piece of gear we repair. It’s not just for compliance; it’s to help departments make smart decisions about when to repair, retire, or replace gear.
Q: Is your team trained on the different manufacturers’ specs?
A: Yes. We regularly work with turnout gear from all the major manufacturers: Innotex, LION, Globe, and others. We understand how different brands are constructed and tailor our repair approach to fit. We also stay current on manufacturer updates and certification changes, so we’re not just sewing—we’re restoring gear with expertise.
Q: How long does a typical repair take?
A: Most standard repairs are completed within a few days, depending on the volume and complexity. We understand the importance of getting gear back in service quickly, so our sewing team collaborates closely with the inspection and cleaning teams to ensure fast turnaround times without compromising quality.
Q: Can we send gear for cleaning and repair at the same time?
A: Yes, and that’s exactly what most departments do. After your gear is cleaned and inspected, we identify any items that require repair. Once repairs are complete, the gear is cleaned again (if necessary) and returned with full documentation. It’s a one-stop NFPA 1851-compliant process.
Q: Why is it important to use certified repair services like ETD?
A: Improper repairs can jeopardize your gear’s thermal protection, moisture barrier, or structural integrity. Certified services like ours ensure your gear maintains its life-saving performance characteristics. We’re not just fixing gear—we’re protecting firefighters and the people who count on them.
If your department needs repair services that put firefighter safety first, get in touch with our team at ETD. We’re here to extend the life of your turnout gear without compromising compliance, comfort, or confidence.
Have gear in need of repair or restoration? Contact us for a full NFPA 1851-compliant assessment today.
