How to Conduct a Firefighter PPE Risk Assessment (OSHA)

NFPA 1851, Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting, requires departments to perform a Risk Assessment prior to starting the selection process of structural firefighting ensembles.

Risk Assessments are a valuable tool in helping fire department leaders select the gear for their personnel that is right for the job. NFPA 1851 provides detailed requirements to include in your PPE Risk Assessment.

Read this article to learn:

• what a Risk Assessment is;
• why conduct a Risk Assessment; and
• the criteria for a Risk Assessment set forth in NFPA 1851.