Combination Structural/Crash Firefighter Head Protection Operational Evaluation

Abstract

This project evaluated a combination structural/crash firefighter head protection system. The system utilized standard structural firefighter helmets, modified with a heat resistant face shield and full head heat shield, similar to crash hoods. The program evaluated these modified helmets for their ability to provide protection against the high radiant heat of a large hydrocarbon fire. Five firefighters, each with a different modified helmet, conducted firefighting operations. Relative heat and comfort were evaluated by the firefighter/evaluators. This program evaluated the firefighter interface and the operational effectiveness and suitability of the system. Evaluation scores showed that all modified helmets were acceptable, with some improvements required. Overall, these helmets are a big improvement over the Air Force standard crash hood in comfort, weight, visibility, and interface with the SCBA. By incorporating the above recommendation, the Air Force firefighter will have a much improved head protection system, usable in both the structural and crash firefighting scenarios. Firefighting helmets.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 01, 1992
Accession Number
ADA273330

Entities

People

  • B. R. Dees
  • J. H . Storm
  • M. J. Wilson

Organizations

  • Applied Research Associates (United States)

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Air Force Facilities
  • Cameras
  • Civil Engineering
  • Engineering
  • Environment
  • Fire Protection
  • Fires
  • Heat Shields
  • Ignition Systems
  • Instrumentation
  • Operational Effectiveness
  • Research Facilities
  • Safety
  • Test And Evaluation
  • Test Facilities
  • Test Methods

Readers

  • Explosive Engineering.
  • Materials Science