FIRE STATION LAYOUT 1 1 Similarly, furniture and fixtures in fire stations attract and collect dirt and biological toxins. A 2011 study by the University of Washington Field Research and Consultation Group found MRSA on chairs, phones, computers and kitchen counters in fire stations in western Washington. This study shows the importance of keeping frequently touched items clean and disinfected. 1 1 For new fire station design, plan adequate space requirements for turnout cleaning extractors to clean turnouts in-house, or provide an area to package turnouts at the station prior to shipping to an Independent Service Provider (ISP) for third party cleaning. Follow manufacturer’s instructions on methods for cleaning turnouts. FACILITIES MAINTENANCE Initial and/or periodic testing should be conducted at fire stations to ensure a safe environment for fire and EMS personnel working in those stations. 1 1 Dieselexhaust: Engineered systems such as direct source capture systems need to be maintained to ensure they are exhausting the gasses and particulate matter to the outside atmosphere. Diesel exhaust is classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as carcinogenic to humans (Group 1). 1 1 Staph,VRE,CDiffandMRSA: Chronic health effects from bloodborne exposures that are persistent in the fire service. 1 1 Asbestos: Older fire stations should be assessed for asbestos encapsulated pipe wrap. If the wrap is damaged, it needs to be repaired or replaced. 1 1 Radon: A radioactive gas that occurs naturally in the ground. It can enter into living spaces—especially basements, through ground water or cracks in foundations—and congregate there. It is known to cause lung cancer. If found above EPA guidelines, mitigation options should be considered. Diesel exhaust is classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as carcinogenic to humans (Group 1). 9