USAF_FES_PPE_Ensemble_Specifications_18_Aug_15.pdf

Air Force Fire Emergency Services 18 August 2015

Structural & Proximity Fire Fighting Personal Protective Equipment Specifications Page 1

Fire Emergency Services (FES)

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Ensemble Specifications

18 August 2015

Structural & Proximity Fire Fighting Personal Protective Equipment Specifications Page 2

Table of Contents

Section Title Page #

Section 1 - Scope 3

Section 2 - Salient Characteristics and Applicable Standards Specifications 3

Section 3 - Specifications for Structural Fire Fighting Coat and Pants 6

Section 4 - Structural Fire Fighting Coat 11

Section 5 - Structural Fire Fighting Pants 15

Section 6 - Structural Fire Fighting Gloves 18

Section 7 - Dual Purpose Structural and Proximity Fire Fighting Boots 19

Section 8 - Fire Fighting Helmet 22

Section 9 - Fire Fighting Hood & Instructor Hood 28

Section 10 - Specifications for Proximity Fire Fighting Coat and Pants 31

Section 11 - Proximity Fire Fighting Coat 36

Section 12 - Proximity Fire Fighting Pants 39

Section 13 - Proximity Fire Fighting Gloves 42

Section 14 - Delivery and Shipping 44

Section 15 - General Information 45

Structural & Proximity Fire Fighting Personal Protective Equipment Specifications Page 3

1. SCOPE. The specifications listed below establish the requirement of all Air Force (AF) fire stations including Air National Guard (ANG) and Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC) across the contiguous United States (CONUS), as well as outside the contiguous United States (OCONUS) in the Air Force (AF). The specifications describe mandatory minimum AF Firefighter Structural and Proximity Fire Fighting PPE procurement requirements and training, delivery, and technical support requirements.

This contract may also be used by other DoD agencies including the Army and Navy.

2. SALIENT CHARACTERISTICS AND APPLICABLE STANDARDS SPECIFICATIONS. AF

Firefighter Structural and Proximity Fire Fighting PPE shall be made in accordance with commercial practices and be compliant with the following specifications and applicable standards. In the event of a conflict between the text of this document and the references cited herein, the text of this document takes precedence. However, nothing in this document supersedes current applicable industry standards, laws, or regulations unless a specific exemption has been obtained.

2.1. Applicable Standards and Regulations/Specifications.

2.1.1. 29 CFR 1910 - Occupational Safety and Health Standards

2.1.2. Department of Defense Instruction 6055.06, DoD Fire & Emergency Services Program

2.1.3. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1500, Standard on Fire Department

Occupational Safety and Health, current edition

2.1.4. NFPA 1851, Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of Protective Ensembles for

Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting, current edition

2.1.5. NFPA 1951, Standard on Protective Ensembles for Technical Rescue, current edition

2.1.6. NFPA 1971, Standard on Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and

Proximity Fire Fighting, current edition

2.1.7. NFPA 1992, Standard on Liquid Splash-Protective Ensembles and Clothing for

Hazardous Materials Emergencies, 2012 Edition, current edition

2.1.8. American National Standards Institute Z87.1, Standard on Personal Eye and Face

Protective Devices

2.1.9. ASTM D1424, Standard Test Method for Tearing Strength of Fabrics by Falling-

Pendulum (Elmendorf-Type) Apparatus

2.1.10. ASTM D3512-82, Standard Test for Pilling Resistance

2.1.11. ASTM D3884, Standard Guide for Abrasion Resistance of Textile Fabrics (Rotary

Platform, Double-Head Method)

2.1.12. ASTM D5034, Standard Test Method for Breaking Strength and Elongation of Textile

Fabrics (Grab Test)

2.1.13. ASTM D5587, Standard Test Method for Tearing Strength of Fabrics by Trapezoid

Procedure

2.1.14. ASTM D6413, Standard Test Method Flame Resistance of Textiles

2.1.15. MIL-DTL-44419A – Detail Specification: Gloves, Men’s and Women’s, Intermediate

Cold/Wet

2.1.16. American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC) Test Method 42;

Water Resistance

2.1.17. American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC) Test Method 79;

Absorbency of Textiles

2.1.18. American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC) Test Method 135;

Dimensional Changes of Fabrics after Home Laundering

2.1.19. Federal Standard 751 Specifications (FED-STD-751)

Structural & Proximity Fire Fighting Personal Protective Equipment Specifications Page 4

2.2. Berry Amendment Compliant. All manufactured products must meet all Trade Agreements and must be Berry Amendment Compliant, reference 10 United States Code (U.S.C.) 2533a. However, proximity gloves and boots may be used in a chemical warfare environment; therefore, those proximity garments may use qualifying country sources per DFARS 252.225-7012 (c) (5).

2.3. Certifications/Verification. Items that require Certification/verification shall be valid throughout the life of the contract.

2.4. Salient Characteristics. Whenever the following Brand Names are referred to in this document, the Brand Names are referred to in this document, the Brand Name’s salient characteristics listed below must be met for any item delivered.

2.4.1. Nomex®: synthetic aromatic polyamide polymer; meta-aramid, poly(meta-phenyleneisophthalamide), prepared from meta-phenylenediamine and isophthaloyl chloride in an amide solvent.

2.4.2. Nomex® knit: constructed 96% Nomex or equivalent and 4% Spandex or equivalent for shape retention no greater than 96% flame resistant meta-aramid and no greater than 4% synthetic fiber made of polyurethane-polyurea copolymer.

2.4.3. Kevlar®: Para-Aramid; boron and graphite composite filament.

2.4.4. GEMINI®: 60% Kevlar®/40% PBI™ or equivalent spun yarn in a “Matrix Technology” reinforced with 400 denier Kevlar® filament at an approximate weight of 7.5 oz. per square yard. The shell material must be treated with material that is a durable water-repellent finish that also enhances abrasion resistance.

2.4.5. GENTEX® STYLE #1088: Constructed of an aluminized Dual Mirror® fabric and Para-Aramid rip stop knit. The fabric shall not weigh more than 8.5 oz. per square yard.

2.4.6. GENTEX® STYLE #1098: Constructed of an aluminized PBI®/Kevlar® Dual Mirror® fabric and Para-Aramid rip stop knit. The fabric shall not weigh more than 7.0 oz. per square yard.

2.4.7. NEWTEX® P-202 Z-Flex® Silver: Constructed of a Z-Flex® aluminized film and PBI/Para- Aramid 3D Mock Knit fabric. The fabric shall not weigh more than 7.0 oz. per square yard.

2.4.8. CALDURA® SL2i: thermal liner fabric consisting of a 3.8 oz/yd2 61% Para-Aramid/34% FR Rayon/5% Nylon Face Cloth Quilted to 1 Layer of 2.3 oz/yd2 and 1 Layer of 1.5 oz/yd2 Meta- Aramid/Para-Aramid Non-Woven Batting (spunlace). The liner shall have one layer not weighing more than 1.5 oz. and one layer not weighing more than 2.3 oz. per square yard Nomex® E 89™ spunlace Nomex®/Kevlar® aramid blend or equal material stitched to an inherently wicking facecloth comprised of Kevlar® filament and blend of Lenzing, para-aramid, and nylon. The thermal liner fabric shall not weigh more than 7.7 oz. per square yard.

2.4.9. CROSSTECH®: 3-layer moisture barrier: moisture barrier comprised of a CROSSTECH® membrane laminated to Nomex® IIIA woven pajama check substrate and a Nomex® woven fabric. The CROSSTECH® membrane is an enhanced bicomponent membrane comprised of an expanded PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) matrix having a continuous hydrophilic and oleophobic coating that is

Structural & Proximity Fire Fighting Personal Protective Equipment Specifications Page 5 impregnated into the matrix. The 3-layer moisture barrier material shall not weigh more than 7.0 oz. per square yard.

2.4.10. CROSSTECH®: Black 2-layer moisture barrier: moisture barrier comprised of a CROSSTECH® membrane laminated to a Nomex® IIIA woven pajama check substrate. The CROSSTECH® membrane is an enhanced bicomponent membrane comprised of an expanded PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) matrix having a continuous hydrophilic and oleophobic coating that is impregnated into the matrix. The 2-layer moisture barrier material shall not weigh more than 4.7 oz. per square yard.

2.4.11. Ara-shield®: reinforcement fabric with face coating on both sides made of high solids polymer, substrate 100% para-aramid blend twill weave and matte finish. Leather will not be acceptable except where indicated as accessory (flashlight hook) backing material. The reinforcement fabric shall not weigh more than 16.0 oz. per square yard.

2.4.12. PBI®: polybenzimidazole blend (synthetic fiber with no melting point)

2.4.13. Lenzing FR®: cellulose fiber produced from wood that protects from heat and flame sources.

2.4.14. Spandex®: synthetic fiber made of polyurethane-polyurea copolymer.

2.4.15. 3M Scotchlite™: fabric made of reflective material with wide angle, exposed retroreflective lenses.

2.4.16. Neoprene®: extremely versatile synthetic rubber (polychloroprene).

2.5 Warranty. All standard warranties offered in the commercial market (from manufacturer or supplier) shall apply to the Government for all items under contract, and shall be enforced by the Government through the contractor at no additional cost to the Government.

Structural & Proximity Fire Fighting Personal Protective Equipment Specifications Page 6

3. SPECIFICATIONS FOR STRUCTURAL FIRE FIGHTING COAT AND PANTS

3.1. Third Party Testing and Listing Program. All components used in the construction of these garments shall have been tested for compliance to NFPA 1971 by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Safety Equipment Institute (SEI), Intertek Testing Services (ITS/ETL), or other certifying bodies. UL, SEI, ITS/ETL or other shall certify and list compliance to that standard.

3.1.1. Garment Overlap. Coat and pant shall be produced by the same manufacturer to meet or exceed NFPA 1500 overlap (interface) requirements.

3.2. Sizing. Coats and Pants shall be available in men & women’s sizing.

3.2.1. Coat Sizing. Chest shall be available for men in 34-60 inches and women in 28-50 inches in 2 inch increments. Sleeves shall be available for men in 32-38 inches and women in 28-34 inches in 2 inch increments or less. Generalized sizing, such as small, medium, large, etc., will not be accepted.

3.2.2. Pant Sizing. The pants shall be available in men & women’s sizing and shall be sized for both waist and inseam. Waist shall be available for men in 30-60 inches and women in 28-50 inches in 2 inch increments. Inseam shall be available for men in 26-36 inches and women in 24-34 inches in 2 inch increments. Generalized sizing, such as small, medium, large, etc., will not be accepted.

3.2.3. Specialty Sizing. The contractor shall provide specialty sizes, at no additional cost of the item, if and when the Government determines appropriate sizing for a given purchase to be outside of the sizing parameters in 3.2.1. and 3.2.2.

3.2.4. Personnel Sizing. The contractor shall provide a controlled sample sizing kit with measurement guide and instructions on how to properly size the following: coat chest, coat sleeve, pant waist, pant inseam, and pant hips (women).

3.2.4.1. Sizing Kit. The contractor shall provide a controlled sample sizing kit with measurement guide and instructions on how to properly size men and women to capture proper fit and accurate interfacing of sleeve/glove, coat/pant, and pant/boot. Kit contents shall include a maximum of seven skipped size sets of coats and pants with common identified sleeve/pant lengths within the sizing ranges identified in

3.2.1. and 3.2.2. above and utilized to capture sizing for structural and/or proximity (reference 10.2.4.

for proximity) coat and pants. Sizing garments shall be easily identifiable or clearly marked as sizing garments to prevent utilization as compliant PPE garments.

3.2.5. Bench Stock Sizing. The contractor shall provide a specific sizing chart from the manufacturer to include sizing ranges and assist with determination of sizing for PPE in support of sustainment bench stock or bulk requirements.

3.3. The Composite (Outer Shell, Moisture Barrier, and Thermal Liner) shall comply with the following:

3.3.1. Thermal Protective Performance (TPP). The Structural coat and pants shall have a minimum TPP rating of 38 across the composite (outer shell, moisture barrier, thermal liner) throughout the garment.

3.3.2. Total Heat Loss (THL). The Structural coat and pants shall have a minimum THL rating of 239 W/m2 across the composite (outer shell, moisture barrier, thermal liner).

Structural & Proximity Fire Fighting Personal Protective Equipment Specifications Page 7

3.4. Outer Shell Material. The outer shell shall be GEMINI® or equal material and comply with the following:

3.4.1. Flexibility. The outer shell shall have flexibility after a 17.5 second NFPA minimum TPP exposure of 2.0 cal/cm2/seconds. The outer shell fabric shall remain flexible after this exposure and it shall not break open when folded and creased aggressively.

3.4.2. Tear Strength (ASTM D5587). The outer shell fabric shall have a tear strength greater than 33 (lbf) (Warp) and 33 (lbf) (Fill) for initial testing and after five launderings.

3.4.3 Tensile Strength (ASTM D5034). The outer shell shall have a tensile strength greater than 220 (lbf) (Warp) and 210 (lbf) (Fill) for initial testing.

3.4.4. Abrasion Resistance (ASTM D3884). The outer shell fabric shall have a durable water-repellent finish to enhance abrasion resistance. The outer shell fabric shall show no excessive wear upon visual inspections after 2,500 cycles of Taber abrasion testing using H18 abradant wheels and 500 gm initial weight.

3.4.5. Water Absorption Resistance (AATCC 42). The outer shell shall have a water absorption resistance of no greater than 10% after five launderings.

3.4.6. Flame Resistance (ASTM D6413). The outer shell shall have a char length no greater than 1.0 in.

(Warp) and 1.0 in. (Fill) after five launderings.

3.4.7. Heat and Thermal Shrinkage (NFPA 1971). The outer shell shall have a heat and thermal shrinkage/resistance no greater than 1.5% (Warp x Fill) in initial testing.

3.4.8. Degradation Temperature. The outer shell shall withstand temperatures in excess of 1,100°F before degrading to the point of losing complete physical integrity; breaking apart with bending or movement.

3.4.9. Color. The color shall be natural or gold.

3.4.10. Definition. Further mentioning of “Outer Shell” requirements for structural PPE specifications shall refer to this section (i.e. section 3.4.).

3.5. Three (3) - Layer Moisture Barrier Material. The primary garment moisture barrier material shall be CROSSTECH® three (3) - layer moisture barrier – Type 4A, or equal material and utilized throughout coat and pants except where indicated. The moisture barrier shall be sewn and bound to the thermal liner at the edges only with binding tape. Moisture barrier shall provide protection against water penetration resistance, viral penetration resistance, and 'common chemical' penetration resistance as outlined in NFPA 1971.

3.5.1. Sealed Moisture Barrier Seams. All moisture barrier seams shall be sealed with 1-inch wide waterproof membrane sealant tape made of moisture barrier membrane material used along seams and stitch holes to ensure they are sealed utilizing a heat activated glue adhesive.

3.5.2. Elevated Temperature Performance. The moisture barrier and seam tape shall not melt, ignite, Structural & Proximity Fire Fighting Personal Protective Equipment Specifications Page 8 or stick to the thermal liner when exposed to an elevated temperature of 500°F for five minutes.

3.5.3. Thermal Stability. The moisture barrier laminate shall not show an increase of more than 2.0 m2Pa/W from its initial water-vapor resistance after being exposed to an elevated temperature of 500°F for five minutes when tested according to ISO 11092, Textile - Physiological - Measurements of thermal and water vapor resistance under steady-state conditions (sweating guarded-hotplate test).

3.5.4. Tear Strength (ASTM D5587). The moisture barrier fabric shall have a minimum tear strength score of 130 (lbf) (Warp) and 126 (lbf) (Fill) for initial testing.

3.5.5. Flame Resistance (ASTM D6413). The moisture barrier shall have a char length no greater than

0.8 (in) (Warp) and 0.8 (in) (Fill) afterflame during initial testing.

3.5.6. Heat and Thermal Shrinkage (NFPA 1971). The moisture barrier shall have a heat and thermal shrinkage/resistance of no greater than -2.5% (Warp) and -2.8% (Fill) during initial testing.

3.5.7. Cleaning/Laundry Shrinkage Resistance (AATCC 135). The moisture barrier shall have a shrinkage resistance of no greater than -4.0% (Warp) and -4.1% (Fill) during initial testing after five launderings.

3.5.8. Definition. Further mentioning of “3-Layer Moisture Barrier” or “moisture barrier” requirements in this specification shall refer to this section (i.e. section 3.5.) and shall be utilized as the baseline barrier material except where specifically noted.

3.6. Two (2) - Layer Moisture Barrier Material. The moisture barrier material shall be CROSSTECH® Black two (2) - layer moisture barrier – Type 2F, or equivalent material and utilized only where specifically indicated. The moisture barrier shall provide protection against water penetration resistance, viral penetration resistance, and 'common chemical' penetration resistance as outlined in NFPA 1971.

3.6.1. Elevated Temperature Performance. The moisture barrier and seam tape shall not melt, ignite, or stick to the thermal liner when exposed to an elevated temperature of 500°F for five minutes.

3.6.2. Thermal Stability (ISO 11092). The moisture barrier laminate shall not show an increase of more than 2.0 m2Pa/W from its initial water-vapor resistance after being exposed to an elevated temperature of 500°F for five minutes when tested according to ISO 11092, Textile - Physiological - Measurements of thermal and water vapor resistance under steady-state conditions (sweating guarded-hotplate test).

3.6.3. Tear Strength (ASTM D5587). The moisture barrier fabric shall have a minimum tear strength score of 72 (lbf) (Warp) and 89 (lbf) (Fill) for initial testing.

3.6.4. Flame Resistance (ASTM D6413). The moisture barrier shall have a char length greater than 1.6

(in) (Warp) and 0.8 (in) (Fill) afterflame during initial testing.

3.6.5. Heat and Thermal Shrinkage (NFPA 1971). The moisture barrier shall have a heat and thermal shrinkage/resistance of no greater than -4.0% (Warp) and -3.5% (Fill) during initial testing.

3.6.6. Cleaning/Laundry Shrinkage Resistance (AATCC 135). The moisture barrier shall have a shrinkage resistance of no greater than -4.1% (Warp) and -2.8% (Fill) during initial testing after five

Structural & Proximity Fire Fighting Personal Protective Equipment Specifications Page 9 launderings.

3.6.7. Definition. Further mentioning of “2-Layer Moisture Barrier” requirements in this specification shall refer to this section (i.e. section 3.6.) except where specifically noted.

3.7. Thermal Liner Material. The thermal liner shall be constructed of “CALDURA® SL2i” or equal material.

3.7.1. Wickability (AATCC 79). Thermal liner shall have facecloth wickability performance of 10 seconds or less.

3.7.2. Slickness. Thermal liner shall have facecloth constructed utilizing spun and filament yarns.

3.7.3. Pilling (ASTM D3512). Thermal liner facecloth shall have a rating of 4 (Slight Pilling) or 5 (No Pilling) both before and after washing agitation at 30, 60, and 90 minute intervals.

3.7.4. Thermal Batting/Spun Lace. Thermal liner shall use two layers of spun lace to decrease the likelihood of compression burns.

3.7.5. Tear Strength (ASTM D5587). The thermal liner fabric shall have a tear strength greater than 40 (lbf) (Warp) and 100 (lbf) (Fill) for initial testing.

3.7.6. Flame Resistance (ASTM D6413). The thermal liner shall have a char length no greater than 2.0

(in) (Warp) and 2.0 (in) (Fill) for initial testing.

3.7.7. Heat and Thermal Shrinkage (NFPA 1971). The thermal liner shall have a heat and thermal shrinkage/resistance of no greater than 3.5% (Warp x Fill) at 500°F for five minutes.

3.7.8. Cleaning/Laundry Shrinkage Resistance (AATCC 135). The thermal liner shall have a shrinkage resistance of no greater than 5% (Warp x Fill) at 500°F for five minutes.

3.7.9. Definition. Further mentioning of “Thermal Liner” requirements in this specification shall refer to this section (i.e. 3.7.).

3.8. Reinforcement Fabric/Material. All areas of the structural coat and pants where applicable shall be strengthened with “reinforcement” Ara-shield® or equivalent material.

3.8.1. Abrasion Resistance (ASTM D3884). The reinforcement material shall have a durable water-repellent finish to enhance abrasion resistance. The reinforcement material shall show no excessive wear upon visual inspections after 9,500 cycles of Taber abrasion testing using H18 abradant wheels and 500 gm initial weight.

3.8.2. Tear Strength (ASTM D5587). The reinforcement fabric shall have a tear strength greater than 20 (lbf) (Warp) and 7 (lbf) (Fill) for initial testing.

3.8.3 Flame Resistance (ASTM D6413). The reinforcement fabric shall have a char length no greater than 2.0 (in) (Warp) and 2.0 (in) (Fill) initial and after five launderings.

3.8.4. Heat and Thermal Shrinkage (NFPA 1971). The reinforcement fabric shall have a heat and

Structural & Proximity Fire Fighting Personal Protective Equipment Specifications Page 10 thermal shrinkage/resistance of no greater than 1.5% (Warp) and 1.5% (Fill) for initial testing.

3.8.5. Cleaning/Laundry Shrinkage Resistance (AATCC 135). The reinforcement fabric shall have a shrinkage resistance of no greater than 5.0% (Warp) and 5.0% (Fill) after five launderings.

3.8.6. Definition. Further mentioning of “Reinforcement” requirements in this specification shall refer to this section (section 3.8.) except where specifically noted.

3.9. Stitching. The outer shell shall be assembled using stitch type #301, #401, #514 and #516. The thermal liners and moisture barriers shall be assembled using stitch type #301, #401, #504, #514, and #516.

Stitching in all seams shall be continuous. Major “A” outer shell structural seams and major “B” structural liner seams shall have a minimum of 8 to 10 stitches per inch throughout.

3.10. Inspection Access Opening. The thermal liner and moisture barrier shall have an accessibility opening for the purpose of inspecting the inner surfaces of the moisture barrier and thermal liner system.

This opening shall be completely secured with two strips of non-flammable, and fire resistant hook and loop fastener or overlapped and secured.

3.11. Labels. Appropriate warning label(s) shall be permanently affixed to each garment. Additionally, the label(s) shall include the following information along with a bar code that interacts with manufacturer’s online tracking system and provides vendor serial number with "V" identifier in symbology Code 128 up to 20 alpha-numeric positions:

3.11.1. Compliance to NFPA Standard 1971; and

3.11.2. Underwriters Laboratories and/or Safety Equipment Institute classified mark.

3.11.3 A complete users information guide shall be included with each coat and each pant in accordance with NFPA 1971 paragraph 5.4.4.

3.12. ISO Certification/Registration. The protective clothing manufacturer shall be certified and registered to ISO Standard 9001 to assure a satisfactory level of quality.

Structural & Proximity Fire Fighting Personal Protective Equipment Specifications Page 11

4. STRUCTURAL FIRE FIGHTING COAT

4.1. Body. The coat design shall be assembled to facilitate maximum unencumbered ease of movement across the shoulders, chest, and arms with the least amount of coat rise and restriction offered by the manufacturer utilizing no less than three separate panels. Coat shall provide a contoured fit and align at the seams with double stitching with Nomex® or equal flame resistant meta-aramid thread. The baseline coat length shall be no longer than 32-inches while shorter and longer lengths shall be available for sizing of tall and short personnel. Coat length may be longer in the back than in the front to facilitate interfacing requirements. The bottom hem of the coat shall be finished with a double row of stitching.

4.2. Collar & Throat Tab/Strap. The collar shall consist of a four-layer construction. The collar shall be minimum 3¼-inches high and lengthened to size. The front edges of the collar shall extend up so that no gap occurs at the throat. Where installed, all hook and loop fastener shall be oriented to prevent exposure to the environment. The throat tab/strap and/or collar shall facilitate adjustment when in the closed position and while wearing a breathing apparatus mask. If throat tab/strap is provided, it shall be able to be stored without creating interference to the user when not in use. A hanger loop shall be sewn to the top inside rear of the collar at the center, and be constructed to withstand hanging the full weight of the coat plus any gear typically attached when stored.

4.3. Inside Coat Pocket. A pocket measuring no less than 7-inch by 9-inch or greater than 9-inch by 9-inch, constructed of thermal liner material and lined with moisture barrier material, shall be affixed to the inside of the coat thermal liner on the left side with the pocket thermal liner and moisture barrier bound together around the perimeter.

4.4. Front/Inside Facings. Separate facings shall measure 2-3-inches wide from collar to hem, and double stitched to the body panels. The facing composite shall be comprised of CROSSTECH® Black 2-layer moisture barrier material or equivalent and outer shell material. The coat thermal liner and moisture barrier shall be attached to the coat facings by means of snap fasteners.

4.5. Front Closure System. The coat shall be closed by means of a #10 heavy duty high temperature smooth-gliding non-conductive zipper made with plastic (polyacetal resin) that aligns each front facing.

The teeth of the zipper shall be mounted on Nomex® or equal flame resistant meta-aramid tape. The storm flap shall measure 3-3½-inches wide and shall be centered. The outside storm flap shall include at least 1-layer of CROSSTECH® Black 2-layer moisture barrier material or equivalent and reinforced at both ends with bar-tacks. The storm flap shall close over the left and right coat body panels and shall be secured with non-flammable, and fire resistant hook and loop fastener tape. A piece of non-flammable, and fire resistant hook and loop fastener tape shall be installed along the leading edge of the storm flap on the underside. A corresponding piece of non-flammable, and fire resistant hook and loop fastener tape shall be sewn to the front body panel and positioned to engage the loop fastener tape when the storm flap is closed over the front of the coat.

4.6. Sleeves. The sleeves shall be shaped so as to provide a contoured fit following the natural flex of the arm at rest. The sleeve design shall facilitate the maximum unencumbered ease of movement across the shoulders, elbows, and arms with the least amount of coat rise and restriction offered by the manufacturer and properly interface with gauntlet style gloves.

4.7. Sleeve Cuff Reinforcements. The sleeve cuffs shall be reinforced with Ara-shield® reinforcement fabric or equivalent material. The cuff reinforcements shall be black in color and not be less than 2-inches in width and folded in half, approximately one half inside and one half outside the sleeve end and stitched

Structural & Proximity Fire Fighting Personal Protective Equipment Specifications Page 12 to the sleeve end.

4.8. Wristlets/Sleeve Wells. Wristlets shall be constructed of a PBI/Kevlar® blend or equal knit hand and wrist guards (over the hand) with separate thumbhole with an approximate diameter of 2-inches shall be recessed approximately 1-inch from the leading edge. Flame resistant barrier material impervious to fluids shall be incorporated to the inside of the sleeve shell to prevent fluids from entering the sleeve’s arm and wrist area. The wristlet and coat sleeve interface shall be designed so that it will not permit a gap in thermal protection and properly interfaces with gauntlet style gloves.

4.9. Liner Elbow Thermal Enhancement. An additional layer of thermal liner material shall be sewn to the elbow area and stitched to the thermal liner layer only. The finished dimension shall be approximately 5-inches by 7-inches.

4.10. Liner Shoulder and Upper Back Thermal Enhancement. An additional layer of thermal liner material shall provide shoulder and upper back thermal enhancement to provide greater conductive and compressive heat resistance (CCHR) protection IAW NFPA 1971. Material shall extend over the top of each shoulder side to side from the collar to the sleeve seems. The material shall extend over the front approximately 5-inches and the back approximately 7½-inches and stitched to the thermal liner only.

4.11. Drag Rescue Device (DRD). The DRD shall be constructed of 1½-inch wide Kevlar or equivalent strap. The DRD shall have the ability to be “reset” without doffing the coat to reset the strap system.

Access to the DRD strap will be through a covered access opening between the shoulders on the upper back with the flap secured by a non-flammable, and fire resistant hook and loop fastener tape. When a Self- Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) is worn, access or function of DRD strap, access opening, or flap shall not be impeded. The outside flap shall be constructed of outer shell material and have a NFPA-compliant 3M Scotchlite™ or equivalent retroreflective and fluorescent material patch or trim sewn to the outside of the flap to identify it as the DRD.

4.12. Liner Access Opening (Coat). Liner access shall be through an opening large enough to facilitate complete moisture barrier and liner inspection and securely close to prevent soiling. The thermal liner and moisture barrier shall be completely removable from the coat’s outer shell.

4.13. Method of Thermal Liner/Moisture Barrier Attachment for Coat. The thermal liner/moisture barrier shall be secured to each coat facing and sleeve with snap fasteners. The outside perimeter of the moisture barrier and thermal liner layers shall be finished and securely bound.

4.14. Retroreflective Fluorescent Trim. The trim shall be 3M Scotchlite™ or equal retroreflective and fluorescent 3-inch lime/yellow with silver center stripe to enhance nighttime and daytime visibility. Each coat sleeve shall have one (1) stripe below each elbow and two (2) horizontal stripes on the coat body in accordance with NFPA 1971-13 figure 6.2.3 option #1. The reflective trim shall run over pockets and be sewn to the outer shell with a flame resistant meta-aramid Nomex® or equal thread with the ends secured into seams.

4.15. Cargo/Hand Warmer Expansion (Bellows) Pockets. One (1) pocket shall be provided and double stitched to the bottom of each front body panel where it can be fully utilized when used with an SCBA. The 2-inch expansion pocket shall measure no less than 8-inch wide by 8-inch high or greater than 10-inch wide by 10-inch high. For 32 inch baseline or shorter coat lengths –trim shall run over the bottom of the pockets.

For 26-inch coat lengths –expansion pockets shall be either 10-inch wide by 6-inch high or 8-inches wide by 6-inches high. Two rust resistant metal drain grommets shall be installed in the bottom of each

Structural & Proximity Fire Fighting Personal Protective Equipment Specifications Page 13 expansion pocket. Lower half of each pocket shall be reinforced with a layer of Kevlar or equivalent on the inside. Pocket flaps shall be constructed of two layers of outer shell material approximately ½-inch wider than the pocket. Upper pocket corners shall be reinforced with back-tacks and pocket flaps shall be reinforced with bar-tacks. Two pieces of non-flammable and fire resistant hook and loop fastener tape shall be placed vertically on the inside of each pocket flap (one piece on each end). Two corresponding pieces of non-flammable, and fire resistant hook and loop fastener tape shall be installed horizontally on the outside of each pocket near the top (one piece on each end) and positioned to engage the hook fastener tape. Additionally, a separate hand warmer pocket compartment shall be provided behind the expandable cargo pocket (between the outer shell and cargo pocket). This compartment shall be accessed from the rear of the pocket and lined with flame resistant meta-aramid Nomex® or equal fleece.

4.16. Radio Pocket. A portable radio pocket option shall be provided for either the left or right chest. The 2.5-inches deep pocket shall measure approximately 3.5-inches wide by 8-inches high and double stitched to the outer shell with one drainage grommet in the bottom of the pocket. The flap shall be two layers of outer shell material ¼-inch wider than the pocket width and notched on each side to accommodate a radio antenna from either side. Flap length shall measure 6-inches in length and secure by means of non-flammable and fire resistant hook and loop fastener tape. Flap hook and loop tape shall be 3-inches in length to facilitate adjustable closure. The pocket shall be lined with impervious barrier material and placed between the two layers of outer shell material in the pocket flap.

4.17. Microphone Straps. Two (2) straps shall be constructed of outer shell material. One (1) shall be mounted above the radio pocket and the other above the flashlight hook on the opposite chest. The microphone straps shall be 1-inch by 2-inches and sewn to the coat using two rows of stitching at the ends only.

4.18. Flashlight Holder Hook and Retainer Strap. A flashlight holder hook and strap shall be provided and positioned on the opposite chest chosen from the portable radio pocket.

4.18.1. Flashlight Hook. Hook shall face downward and inward and be triple riveted with double thickness leather reinforcement in a vertical position to accept the clip of a flashlight.

4.18.2. Flashlight Retainer Strap. The retainer strap shall be a double thickness of outer shell material approximately 2-inches tall by 12-inches wide and double stitched to the coat at the middle of the strap approximately 6 inches below the flashlight hook. 1½-inch by 6-inch non-flammable and fire resistant hook and loop fastener tape shall be stitched to secure the loose ends and secure a flashlight barrel.

4.19. No Upper Chest Options. An option shall be provided for no radio pocket, microphone straps, and flashlight holder hook with retainer strap (4.16, 4.17, 4.18).

4.19.1. No Radio Pocket Option. An option shall be provided for no radio pocket (4.16).

4.19.2. No Microphone Straps Option. An option shall be provided for no microphone straps (4.17).

4.19.3. No Flashlight Holder Hook and Retainer Strap Option. An option shall be provided for no flashlight holder hook with retainer strap (4.18).

4.20. American Flag – Right Sleeve. A Nomex® or equal flame resistant meta-aramid embroidered American flag or patch that measuring approximately 2½-inches high by 3½-inches wide shall be located on the right upper sleeve and oriented so the field of stars are to the top right corner.

Structural & Proximity Fire Fighting Personal Protective Equipment Specifications Page 14

4.21. Sewn on Retroreflective Lettering. An option shall be provided for up to a maximum of 4 3-inch lime/yellow retroreflective and fluorescent 3M Scotchlite™ or equivalent block letters located on the upper back approximately centered between shoulder blades to enhance nighttime and daytime visibility.

Contractor shall request customer specify one of the following options: USAF, USA, ARMY, USN, NAVY, or no lettering when order is placed.

4.22. Coat Name Patch. A removable hanging name patch shall be constructed of a double layer of outer shell material and attach to the rear inside hem of the coat with a combination of snap fasteners and non-flammable and fire resistant hook and loop fastener tape. Letters shall be 3-inch lime/yellow retroreflective and fluorescent 3M Scotchlite™ or equivalent to enhance nighttime and daytime visibility.

Contractor shall request customer specify up to 12 letters per patch when order is placed.

Structural & Proximity Fire Fighting Personal Protective Equipment Specifications Page 15

5. STRUCTURAL FIRE FIGHTING PANTS

5.1. Body. The pant design shall be assembled to facilitate the maximum unencumbered ease of movement across the seat, knee and legs with the least amount of leg cuff rise and restriction . Pants shall provide a contoured fit and align at the seams and inseams with double stitching of Nomex® or equal flame resistant meta-aramid thread.

5.2. Pant Rise. The rear pant rise shall exceed the front pant rise by approximately 3 to 7 inches to facilitate a 32-inch coat length and assure no gap in thermal protection.

5.3. Pant Moisture Barrier/ Thermal Liner Attachment. The moisture barrier/thermal liner shall separate completely from the outer shell. Snap fasteners or a combination of snap fasteners and non-flammable and fire resistant hook and loop fastener tape shall be provided along the waistband to secure it to the shell. The moisture barrier/thermal liner legs shall anchor to the shell with tabs and snap fasteners.

5.4. Liner Access Opening (Pants). Liner access shall be through an opening large enough to facilitate complete moisture barrier and liner inspection. This opening shall be completely secured with two strips of non-flammable, and fire resistant hook and loop fastener or overlapped and secured. The thermal liner and moisture barrier shall be completely removable from the outer shell.

5.5. Retroreflective Fluorescent Trim. The trim shall be 3M Scotchlite™ or equal retroreflective and fluorescent 3-inch lime/yellow with silver center stripe to enhance nighttime and daytime visibility.

Each leg shall have one (1) stripe encircle each leg below the knee with a single vertical strip of trim running up each outside pant leg along the seam from the top edge of the horizontal stripe to the waistline. Vertical trim shall not run over pockets. The bottom horizontal stripe shall be located approximately 3-inches above the cuff and shall run over pockets and be sewn to the outer shell with a flame resistant meta-aramid Nomex® or equal thread with the ends secured into seams.

5.6. External/Internal Fly Flap. The fly flap shall measure 3-3½-inches wide and be centered to cover the zipper. The outside fly flap shall include at least 1-layer of CROSSTECH® Black 2-layer moisture barrier material or equivalent and reinforced at both ends with bar-tacks. The flap shall secure in a closed position utilizing a strip of non-flammable, and fire resistant hook and loop fastener tape. A waistband snap fastener shall also be installed to secure the pants in the closed position.

5.7. Belt System. A 2-inch wide black Nomex® or equivalent belt with an adjustable hi-temperature thermoplastic quick-release buckle will be provided. The belt shall run through a series of tunnels or belt loops for attachment to the pants. Belt loops or tunnels shall be located on each side approximately 2-inches from the front opening for storage of the belt tab.

5.8. Knee Construction. The knee design shall be constructed to facilitate the maximum unencumbered ease of movement across the knee with the least amount of pant rise and restriction offered by the manufacturer to insure no restriction of movement. The knee design shall incorporate liner knee thermal enhancement, internal knee padding, and two (2) options for outer shell knee reinforcements.

5.8.1. Liner Knee Thermal Enhancement. An additional layer of thermal liner material and flame resistant barrier material impervious to fluids shall be sewn to the knee area.

5.8.2. Internal Knee Padding. Padding for the knees shall be accomplished with one layer of silicone foam padding placed between the thermal liner and the moisture barrier. The padding shall be cellular

Structural & Proximity Fire Fighting Personal Protective Equipment Specifications Page 16 silicone foam material ¼-inch thick with a density of at least 20 lb./ft3 and flame resistant.

5.8.3. Knee Reinforcements. The knee design shall consist of two offerings: 1.) Outer shell knee reinforcement shall be sewn into the pants (as referenced in 5.8.3.1.) and 2.) Outer shell knee reinforcements shall be replaceable/removable (as referenced in 5.8.3.2.).

5.8.3.1. Option 1 – Knee Reinforcement- Sewn In. The knee shall be reinforced with a layer of Ara-shield® or equivalent material. The knee reinforcement shall be black in color and measure 9-inches wide by 12-inches high and shall be double stitched to the outside of the outer shell in the knee area.

5.8.3.2 Option 2 – Replaceable/Removable Knee Reinforcement. The knee reinforcement shall be replaceable/removable with an outer shell layer of black Ara-shield® or equivalent material and shall attach securely to the knee area with non-flammable, and fire resistant hook and loop fastener tape on all sides of the knee pad.

5.8.3.2.1 Replaceable/Removable Knee Reinforcements. The contractor shall provide replaceable/removable knee reinforcements as a replacement part upon request.

5.9. Expansion Pockets. One (1) pocket shall be provided and double stitched to the side of each leg above the knee. The 2-inch expansion pocket shall measure no less than 8-inches wide by 8-inches high or greater than 10-inches wide by 10-inches high. The lower 5-inches of the inside of each pocket shall be reinforced with a layer of Kevlar or equivalent. Two rust resistant metal drain grommets shall be installed in the bottom of each expansion pocket. Pocket flaps shall be constructed of two layers of outer shell material approximately ½-inch wider than the pocket and measure approximately 3 inches larger than the pocket expansion. Upper pocket corners shall be reinforced with back-tacks and pocket flaps shall be reinforced with bar-tacks. Two pieces of non-flammable and fire resistant hook and loop fastener tape shall be placed vertically on the inside of each flap (one piece on each end). Two corresponding pieces of non-flammable and fire resistant hook and loop fastener tape shall be installed horizontally on the outside of each pocket near the top (one piece on each end).

5.9.1. Three Section Tool Compartment (Right Side). The right expansion pocket shall incorporate a tool pocket constructed of Kevlar or equivalent measuring approximately 8-inches high by 10-inches wide.

Three pockets shall be installed on the inside of the pocket with double stitching and measure 8-inches high, approximately 3-inches wide each and set side-by-side.

5.10. Bellow Search Pockets. Bellow search pockets shall consist of two offerings: 1.) No bellow search pockets (as referenced in 5.10.1.) and 2.) Bellow search pockets shall be included (as referenced in 5.10.2.).

5.10.1. Option 1 – No Bellow Search Pockets. The pockets shall not be included.

5.10.2. Option 2 – Bellow Search Pockets included. A bellowed pocket, measuring approximately 2-inches deep by 5-inches wide by 8-inches high shall be double stitched to the side (approximately centered over the side seam) of each leg below the knee. The inside bottom 5-inches of each pocket shall be reinforced with a layer of Kevlar or equivalent. One rust resistant metal drain grommet shall be installed in the bottom of each pocket. The pocket flap shall be constructed of two layers of outer shell material and extend approximately ½-inch wider than the pocket. The pocket flaps shall be closed by means of non-flammable and fire resistant hook and loop fastener tape. One piece of non-flammable and fire resistant hook and loop fastener tape shall be installed vertically on the inside center of each

Structural & Proximity Fire Fighting Personal Protective Equipment Specifications Page 17 pocket flap. A corresponding piece of non-flammable and fire resistant hook and loop fastener tape shall be installed horizontally on the outside of each pocket near the top center to engage the flap hook and fastener tape.

5.11. Pant Cuff Reinforcements. Pant cuffs shall be reinforced with Ara-shield® or equivalent. The cuff reinforcements shall be black in color and not be less than 2-inches in total width and folded in half so that approximately one half is inside and one half is outside of the leg cuff.

5.12. Reverse Boot Cut. The outer shell pant leg cuffs will be constructed such that the back of the leg is approximately 1-inch shorter than the front. The liner will also have a reverse boot cut at the rear of the cuff and a concave cut at the front.

5.13. Adjustable Suspenders. Suspender system shall be “H” style construction of 2-inch wide strapping.

The shoulder area of the suspenders shall be padded for comfort by fully encasing the strapping with aramid batting and wrap-around black flame resistant meta-aramid. The chest area webbing shall incorporate hardware that provides easy adjustment and quick releases.

5.13.1. Suspender Ends. The ends of the suspender system shall terminate with elasticized webbing suspender attachments and leather ends that facilitate pant suspender buttons described in 5.13.2. which secures the suspender system to the pants.

5.13.2. Pant Suspender Attachment. The outside pant waistband shall have 6 to 8 suspender attachment buttons configured with either 2 or 4 buttons in the rear and 4 buttons in front.

5.13.3. Suspender Sizing. Suspenders shall be available in four (4) lengths; long, regular, short and X-short or equivalent lengths.

5.13.4. Suspender Replacements. The contractor shall provide suspenders as a replacement part upon request.

Structural & Proximity Fire Fighting Personal Protective Equipment Specifications Page 18

6. STRUCTURAL FIRE FIGHTING GLOVES

6.1. The structural firefighting gloves shall be composed of an Outer Shell, a Thermal Liner, and a Protective/Moisture Barrier. No specific outer shell or thermal liner fabrics have been identified.

Moisture barriers shall be comprised of polytetrafluorethylene (PTFE) with a continuous hydrophilic and oleophobic coating.

6.2. Moisture Barrier Tests. The structural gloves shall comply with the following tests.

6.2.1 Glove barriers shall be abrasion resistant and show no leakage after 150 cycles using Glove Barrier Water Permeability after Universal Wear Abrasion Test as specified in MIL-DTL-44419A.

6.2.2. Glove barrier breathability shall have a minimum of 600 gm/m2/24 hours using ASTM E-96, Method B as specified in MIL-DTL-44419A.

6.2.3. Glove barrier breathability shall have a minimum of 5,000 gm/m2/24 hours using ASTM E-96, Method BW as specified in MIL-DTL-44419A.

6.2.4 Glove barrier breathability shall have a minimum of 4,300 gm/m2/24 hours using ISO 15496.

6.2.5. Glove Barriers shall have a burst strength of at least 10 psi for 2 minutes after exposure to chemicals including DEET as specified in MIL-DTL-44419A.

6.2.6. All (100%) of finished gloves shall pass the Whole Glove Leak test with air as specified in MIL-

DTL-44419A.

6.2.7. Finished gloves shall pass the Whole Glove Integrity test after exposure to an elevated temperature of 500oF for five minutes.

6.3. Sizes. XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL or equivalent shall be provided.

6.4. Style. Contractor shall offer gauntlet and wristlet style gloves.

6.5. Design and Construction. Lining and barrier system shall be sewn to outer shell at tabs on all fingers and thumb ends. Gloves shall be of an ergonomic design to fit the curve of the natural hand at rest providing a high level of thermal protection with dexterity and palm material that resists slippage when wet or dry. Glove shall feature a hanger loop.

6.6. Labels. Appropriate warning label(s) shall be permanently affixed. A bar code may be included that interacts with manufacturer’s online tracking system and provides vendor serial number with "V" identifier in symbology Code 128 up to 20 alpha-numeric positions. Additionally, the label(s) shall include the following information:

6.6.1. Compliance to NFPA Standard 1971; and

6.6.2. UL, SEI, ITS/ETL or other certifier’s mark.

6.6.3. A complete users information guide shall be included with each pair of gloves to include sizing information in accordance with NFPA 1971 paragraph 5.4.4.

Structural & Proximity Fire Fighting Personal Protective Equipment Specifications Page 19

7. DUAL PURPOSE STRUCTURAL AND PROXIMITY FIRE FIGHTING BOOTS

7.1 USAF Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear (CBRN) Approved

7.1.1. Certification. All boots shall be dual-certified to meet or exceed NFPA 1971, Standard on Protective Ensembles for Structural Firefighting and Proximity Firefighting, and certified to meet or exceed NFPA 1992, Standard on Liquid Splash-Protective Ensembles and Clothing for Hazardous Materials Emergencies.

7.1.1.1. USAF CBRN Test Notification. Candidate boots shall be submitted with official notification of intent to seek approval to USAF Joint Firefighter Integrated Response Ensemble (JFIRE) Program Manager prior to participation in JFIRE testing described below. Tests requiring Commercial Test Agreements will be coordinated through the USAF JFIRE Program Manager. Any and all costs associated with testing and approvals described in this section shall reside with the submitting party and not the government.

7.1.1.1.1. Field Evaluations. Field evaluations shall be conducted through a Commercial Test Agreement with the government to gather and evaluate data on the functionality of the candidate components in as close to real-world conditions as possible. Evaluations will be conducted during wartime exercises conducted on an Air Force Installation as the firefighters, practice various scenarios in a wartime posture. Data collected will include a survey of overall comfort/fit, sweat accumulation data, and donning/doffing.

7.1.1.1.2. Durability and Compatibility Testing (DCT) (450 wear hours). This testing is a prerequisite to Live Agent Testing and shall be conducted through a Commercial Test Agreement with the government.