Threats from chemicals, biological hazards, and radiological substances are becoming more and more common for first responders. The Nation Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1992 and 1994 certification standards set down guidelines for apparel to shield wearers from CBRNE and HAZMAT substances in either liquid, particulate or vapor forms. Terrorist organizations frequently use or target these materials, making protective ensembles that meet NFPA 1992/1994 standards essential for decontamination, search-and-rescue, medical triage and other public safety operations.
NFPA 1994 Overview
There are several classes of NFPA 1994, each of which concerns the design and performance of CBRNE ensembles. Garments for the NFPA 1994 Standard on Protective Ensembles for First Responders to CBRN Terrorism Incidents must provide a minimum level of protection from certain hazards. Class 2 covers vapor and liquid chemical agents at levels that are immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH; aka “hot-zone”), while Class 3 is for agents that are below IDLH levels (“warm-zone”).The levels are determined based on risk analysis of certain operations. All aspects of an ensemble are tested, including the material, gloves, footwear and headwear.
NFPA 1992 Overview
The NFPA 1992 Standard on Liquid Splash-Protective Ensembles for Hazardous Materials addresses garments for HAZMAT and CBRNE use. In order to be certified, ensembles or clothing must demonstrate sufficient protection against common industrial chemicals that may attempt to permeate a suit via liquid splashing, non-carcinogenic vapors or particulate material environments. Optional criteria are also included for chemical flash fire protection; to meet this, a garment must have high surface flame resistance while simultaneously maintaining its liquid protection.
Blauer Homeland Defender® Suits
Tactical officers, medical professionals, firefighters and other anti-terrorism responders can benefit from our independently certified hazard suits. Our XRT warm-zone CBRNE suits are certified for NFPA 1994 class 3 while the Multi-Threat hot-zone HAZMAT suit is tested to meet NFPA 1994 Class 2 and NFPA 1992 standards. Both ensembles use GORE® CHEMPAK® selectively-permeable fabric and have a conventional outerwear fit for long-lasting protection and comfort. Click on an ensemble to learn more.