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DHS issues standards for first responder's personal protective equipment

Emergency Management Alert, March 2, 2004

The Department of Homeland Security's science and technology division adopted standards last week on personal protective equipment developed for first responders during chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear incidents, a written statement said.

The standards will assist state and local procurement officials and manufacturers to provide the best protective gear available to emergency personnel.
 
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) assisted Homeland Security when developing the standards. The guidelines include NIOSH standards for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear three main categories of respiratory protection equipment and five current NFPA standards for protective suits and clothing when responding to chemical, biological, and radiological attacks.

"Developing these standards in equipment used by our first responders will enable them to better prepare our nation against natural and man-made disasters and protect them as they respond to any hazard," said Michael D. Brown, Under Secretary of Homeland Security for Emergency Preparedness and Response.

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