b'EQUIPMENT CLEANINGSCBA facemasks and tools are exposed to the same products of combustion as turnout gear. They are contaminated any time they are exposed to a smoky atmosphere, including, but not limited, to structure fires, car fires, dumpster fires, training fires or burnt food on the stove. If not properly cleaned, contaminated equipment will continue to expose personnel to carcinogens long after the incident.PER of equipment should be done at the scene.Proper PPE that will limit dermal absorption should be used any time contact is made with the contaminated equipment at the scene or while cleaning. Transportation of contaminated SCBAs, masks and other equipment:,Contaminated equipment should be grossly decontaminated first, then encapsulated if transporting in the fire engine to further reduce exposure or contamination to uncontaminated areas.,Contaminated equipment does not need to be encapsulated if it can be transported to the cleaning facility in a vehicle (e.g., a pickup truck) that will not allow further cross-contamination of the apparatus cab, compartments or exposure to personnel. SPECIFICS ON SCBAEquipment should be cleaned in a location that will allow forAND FACEMASK CLEANINGproper cleaning without further exposure to personnel or livingThe cylinder needs to be removed from the backpack for quarters. proper cleaning. It should be washed with warm, soapy water After each use, all equipment will be cleaned according to theand thoroughly rinsed, making sure to clean all components of manufacturers recommendations. the cylinder (i.e., cylinder valve, gauge and cylinder body). After cleaning, the cylinder valve should be cracked open to blow out For most hand tools (axe, hooligan, shovel, etc.), use mild soapany moisture that has collected in the valve opening.and water. Masks can be cleaned in a commercial mask washer or ,If necessary, scrub with a soft- to medium-bristled brush toultrasonic cleaner designed specifically for SCBA masks, if remove stubborn contaminants.allowed by the specific manufacturer. Otherwise, masks can be ,Using a garden hose, completely rinse the soap from thecleaned inside and out to remove all contaminants and sanitized tools.prior to being placed back in service. Gas-powered equipment can be wiped free of smoke, soot The backpack (minus cylinder) should be thoroughly cleaned and debris. in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations. Warm, soapy water, a sponge and a soft-bristled brush should be used, with care taken to make sure all surfaces are thoroughly cleaned, BELOW: To clean SCBA masks, remove electronicincluding hard and soft surfaces (WAC 296-842).components and use a damp sponge or cloth to clean thoseSCBA washers are proven to reduce contaminants and should parts. Scrub face piece with a brush, then ensure exhalationbe a best practice.valve moves freely and hang mask to dry.51'