I was wondering if any of the guys out there have a preferance between Nomex or Tecasafe PPEs. Is one more breathable than the other? Hold up better in the brush? Last longer? More comfortable to wear? But most of all, provides more protection? I would like to replace my gear and don’t want to cut coners on gear that might save my life… What is the general consensus when purchasing wildland PPE, Nomex or Tecasafe? Or is there something else that is better and meets the NFPA 1977-2016 Any purchasing agents out there that have an opinion?
3 Likes
This link takes you to a study conducted in 2015 by DHS. It may answer some of your questions.
3 Likes
Interesting, the report states that new materials can offer the same level of protection as some dubble layering materials. This can help with reducing heat stress… Also states that heat stress is more dangerous than burn injuries…
3 Likes
Not necessarily more dangerous but far more common and a higher risk. CALFIRE made that conclusion several years ago and redesigned the whole ensemble
4 Likes
I have some pants made of tecasafe which are the most comfortable fire pants I have. I also have a shirt, and have found that it is easier to get clean than the traditional nomex. I know for some folks that’s still a negative because they want to wear filth (I’d rather judge your work and productivity by what you accomplish than by how much dirt you can wear), but for those who are concerned about their health and the long-term implications of wearing carcinogens for hours or months, it seems the ability to get it at least visually cleaner, is a plus. And don’t worry, it won’t be "rookie with a new shirt’ bright, just not permeated with toxins.
5 Likes
Back when the Nomex PPE was first issued by (CDF) CalFire, many of us wore a long sleeve tee undershirt. Once you have worked up a sweat, that had quite a cooling effect.
Later when they had sleeve liners in newer ones, that added another layer of radiant heat protection.
2 Likes