Navigating PFAS and the shift to NFPA 1970: Key changes for firefighter PPE - By Robin Charnaud

By Robin Charnaud, Charnaud and Co (Pty) Ltd

The landscape of firefighter personal protective equipment (PPE) is undergoing significant transformation with the upcoming release of NFPA 1970, a consolidated standard replacing NFPA 1971, 1975, 1981 and 1982.

Among the most critical changes are those addressing Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and the broader push for safer, more effective firefighter gear.

The consolidation and its impact

NFPA 1970 aims to streamline fire service standards, consolidating four key documents into a single, more manageable framework. This consolidation, expected no earlier than August 2025, will impact purchasing decisions as manufacturers’ transition to certifying products under the new standard.

PFAS and restricted substances: A core focus

A major driving force behind the NFPA 1970 revisions is the increasing concern over PFAS exposure. The standard introduces stringent requirements to limit these harmful substances in firefighter clothing. Key changes include:

‘PFAS-Free’ claims and restricted substance limits

• NFPA 1970 will mandate the use of acceptable test methods to measure total fluorine, establishing a basis for ‘PFAS-free’ claims.

• Specific restricted substances, including various PFAS, will be identified and manufacturers will be required to test materials to ensure compliance with strict limits.

• Independent, certified testing will be mandatory.

• The basis of these restricted substance limits are being modelled after the international OEKOTEX 100 standard along with the criteria from PPE Supplement, which chooses the most rigorous requirements for hazardous substances found in global regulations.

Chemical runoff testing

• A proposed test, previously utilised in Europe, will assess the ability of garment outer shells to repel, absorb or allow penetration of liquids like diesel fuel.

• Data relating to PFAS based finishes, and how they react to washing will be recorded and reported.

Enhanced protection and performance

Beyond PFAS, NFPA 1970 introduces several key changes aimed at improving overall firefighter safety:

• Mandated particulate-blocking hoods: Structural firefighting hoods will be required to meet particulate-blocking capabilities, with stricter criteria for coverage, seam testing and preconditiong

• Durability and service life: New criteria will ensure turnout gear maintains performance properties over its expected service life, with enhanced preconditioning protocols involving repeated washing, heat, UV and flexing.

• Contaminant removal and cleaning: A "cleaning index" will be introduced to measure the effectiveness of contaminant removal from clothing materials, promoting better decontamination practices. Measurement of semi-volatile organic chemicals and heavy metals from garment and hood materials.

• Improved breathability: An evaporative resistance test (Ret) will be added to assess garment breathability, complementing total heat loss (THL) measurements and helping mitigate heat stress.

• Full ensemble performance: A new annex will provide optional criteria for measuring the "systems" performance of complete firefighter ensembles, including thermal protection, heat stress impact and gear interoperability.

• SCBA updates: NFPA 1970 will also update intrinsic safety criteria for SCBA, addressing the increasing use of electronic components.

The importance of staying informed

Fire departments must familiarise themselves with NFPA 1970 once it is issued. The standard's implementation will significantly impact PPE purchasing and maintenance. The focus on PFAS reduction, enhanced protection and improved performance highlights the ongoing commitment to firefighter safety.