Hurricanes, floods, tornadoes and other disasters seem to be hitting us harder and more frequently — highlighting the crucial role technical rescue teams have in responding.
Aside from the necessary specialized equipment, first responders need the proper personal protective equipment. Globe Manufacturing has introduced TechRescue, a new line of first responder gear for technical rescue teams.
Exceeding NFPA 1951 and 1999 standards, these new coats and pants provide first responders with lighter, more breathable, closer fitting gear that protects them from flash fire, sharp and hot objects, water, blood and body fluids, and common chemicals.
Here’s some of the specs for the jacket, followed by the pants.
Drop shoulder design/Contoured 2-piece sleeves
Shoulder seam is moved out beyond the shoulder allowing you to comfortably reach and stretch. This also prevents the coat from riding up when you raise your arms. Ergonomically curved sleeve follows the natural shape of your arm to work with you — not against you.
Having more room inside the coat makes for a more comfortable fit. The coat doesn’t ride up and expose any part of your body when working in any environment. The ergonomic sleeve works well during any type of movement.
Lots of pockets
Lower cargo pockets with two expansion pleats have integral handwarmer pockets set behind. Bellows radio pocket is on the left chest with mic strap. An inside security pocket keeps contents dry.
You can never have too many pockets. Many first responders carry a lot of personal gear with them for use at an accident scene. Having a separate radio pocket is also a plus, protecting this high dollar investment as well.
Zip-up collar
Collar zips up to the top for weather protection or lays down flat for ventilation. It’s constructed from two layers of outer shell fabric plus a layer of protective “Crosstech” S/R fabric.
Protection from the elements is a great attribute. Three layers of fabric not only affords greater protection, but insulates the wearer.
Reinforced elbows
An extra layer of outer shell fabric provides additional padding, protection, and durability for this high abrasion area.
The elbow area usually shows great wear in normal turnout coats. By having an extra layer of outer shell fabric with added padding, it gives the user better durability and comfort while wearing it.
Front closure
Double storm flaps secured by hook and loop fastener cover a high-temp polymer zipper for added waterproof integrity. It’s constructed from two layers of outer shell fabric plus a layer of protective Crosstech S/R fabric.
Flame-resistant Crosstech S/R fabric lining
This fabric is highly breathable and liquid penetration resistant to blood, body fluids, common accident scene chemicals, and water, providing comfort and heat stress relief unmatched by any other liquid barrier.
Heat stress relief is a major concern on the firegound and accident scene, especially during prolonged periods of work. Having a fabric that is breathable and resistant to body fluids, chemicals, and water as well as providing comfort and less heat stress is a major factor in this day and age.
Fleece line
Having this removable liner gives the user an option to make the coat warmer to wear in the winter months, and to make it cooler in the hotter climates by being able to remove it whenever the wearer chooses to.
The pants
Cargo pockets
Side pockets with two expansion pleats and flaps with hook and loop closure are positioned on each thigh for ready access and storage, along with a right rear patch pocket with flap. An extra layer of shell material reinforces the lower half of the cargo pockets for longer wear.
As mentioned previously, the more pockets the better for added equipment carried.
Reinforced knees
An extra layer of outer shell fabric provides additional padding, protection, and durability for this high abrasion area. Greater protection in the knee area is a big plus for first responders, by preventing injuries in this area.
Optional reflective trim with “Trimtrax”
Greater visibility at all accident scenes is one of the biggest concerns for first responders on the highway. Having the choice of several colors and 3" trim design makes for a good visibility design.
Waistband
Elasticized waistband and standard 3" belt loops with optional belt and optional zipper hook and loop fly allow the pants to go on or off easily and provides a comfortable and secure fit.
Three types of enclosures for easy donning and removal of the garment provides for a good fit.
Globe had its beginnings in 1887 in Lynn, Massachusetts, and today has nearly 400 employees and more than 100,000 square feet of manufacturing and distribution facilities, dedicated to producing firefighter gear. For more details, visit them on the Web.