Turnout Gear Decontamination FAQs
ETD’s CO2+ cleaning and decontamination process is unique to firefighter turnout gear. Below are some of the questions that are commonly asked.
Is ETD NFPA verified?
Yes. Emergency Technical Decon (ETD) is a UL-verified Independent Service Provider (ISP) under NFPA 1851 for turnout gear cleaning, advanced inspection, and repair services. Our process is designed to help departments maintain gear safely and confidently while meeting industry standards.
How does ETD clean firefighter turnout gear?
ETD uses our proprietary Liquid CO2+ cleaning process to clean turnout gear beyond the surface layer. Unlike traditional water washing, Liquid CO2+ penetrates deep into gear fibers to lift and capture contaminants at the molecular level, including PFAS, soot, smoke residue, and other harmful chemicals.
Does Liquid CO2+ remove PFAS and other toxic contaminants?
Yes. ETD’s Liquid CO2+ process has been laboratory tested to remove PFAS and other fireground contaminants from turnout gear. Testing has shown removal rates of at least 84% for PFAS, along with strong removal of SVOCs, PAHs, and other hazardous substances commonly found after fire exposure.
What gear can ETD clean?
We clean more than coats and pants. ETD can service turnout coats, pants, hoods, gloves, helmets, boots, SCBA masks, and other PPE components. Our team can also support inspection and repair services depending on your department’s needs.
My department already washes gear in-house. Why would we use ETD?
Routine extractor washing is an important part of daily gear maintenance. ETD is designed to go deeper. Our Liquid CO2+ process removes embedded contaminants that traditional water washing may leave behind, helping reduce repeated exposure to carcinogens while extending the life of your gear.
How do I send gear to ETD?
Contact our team to schedule service, box your gear, and ship it to ETD using your preferred carrier. We clean, inspect, and repair as needed, then return your gear ready for service. ETD currently operates service locations in Portland and Eagan.
Is Liquid CO2 safe for turnout gear?
Yes. Liquid CO2 is gentle on turnout gear while being highly effective at removing contaminants. It cleans without the heat, heavy agitation, or water saturation associated with extractor washing.
Can ETD repair damaged turnout gear?
Yes. ETD offers repair services alongside cleaning and advanced inspection to help departments keep PPE in service longer.
