Evaluating Interoperability of Firefighter First Responder Ensembles
North Carolina State University, Principal Investigator - Roger Barker, PhD
RELEVANCE
Full system-level tests in NFPA standards are impactful in assessing protective clothing as worn by the responder; however, some of these methods lack comprehensive evaluation for its application in integration and interoperability. This research will provide the basis and support for a new NFPA standard for system-level evaluations of the responder in addition to providing the responder community with testing protocols that can be conducted at their respective station for assessment.
METHODS
Material and system-level methods will be implemented to research, examine, and assess current test methods utilized in NFPA standards. NCSU’s capabilities with manikin systems, in-depth knowledge of users and standards, and expertise in human wear testing will provide unprecedented evaluations specific to protective systems worn against a multitude of encountered hazards.
ANTICIPATED OUTCOMES
This research will contribute to improving firefighter protection and promote education through the creation and design of test methods implemented in a new NFPA standard focused on the integration and interoperability of protective ensembles.