The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has published an updated guide outlining protective equipment requirements for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) incidents in the United States.
The guide, titled What You Need to Know About CBRN, consolidates NFPA PPE standards for hazmat and terrorism response and includes certification procedures, testing criteria, and guidance for ensemble selection.
According to the IAFC, the guide was developed by the Irregular Warfare Technical Support Directorate (IWTSD) and reviewed by NFPA stakeholders.
It includes performance definitions for NFPA 1990, 1994, 1999, and related standards.
The guide is available as a free PDF.
The IAFC explained that NFPA 1990 consolidates three previous PPE standards: NFPA 1991 (vapor-protective), NFPA 1992 (liquid splash-protective), and NFPA 1994 (CBRN ensemble performance).
The organization said these changes streamline requirements and improve consistency in how PPE is evaluated.
According to the IAFC, ensemble classification now ranges from Class 1 to Class 5, with specific performance expectations tied to chemical permeability, flash fire resistance, and respiratory compatibility.
NFPA 1990 defines EPA/OSHA Level A, B, and C protections based on combined suit and respirator performance.
The guide outlines that Class 1 and 2 ensembles are designed for use in immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH) environments, requiring SCBA.
The IAFC stated that the standards were developed in response to real hazmat incidents, including events in Benicia, California, and Shreveport, Louisiana, where limitations in PPE contributed to responder injuries.
According to the guide, these cases prompted inclusion of flash fire criteria and permeation resistance benchmarks.
The IAFC added that ensemble testing now includes assessments for material burst strength, liquid and vapor barrier resistance, and exposure to surrogate agents such as sulfur mustard and sarin.
The guide clarifies that no ensembles protect against ionizing radiation, but certain classes resist radiological particulates.
The IAFC emphasized that testing addresses closures, seams, visors, gloves, and footwear, simulating field conditions.
The IAFC reported that respiratory standards are governed by NFPA 1981, 1986, and 1987, and by NIOSH’s CBRN Statements of Standard.
It explained that SCBA, APR, and PAPR devices must meet CBRN-specific test criteria to ensure protection against chemical warfare agents and toxic industrial chemicals.
NIOSH testing includes dynamic manikin trials using nerve agents and other surrogates.
The IAFC noted that these standards originated after incidents such as the 1995 Tokyo subway attack and the 2001 anthrax letters.
According to the IAFC, CBRN-approved respirators must be labelled accordingly and used with compatible ensembles to maintain certification.
The IAFC said the guide helps responders determine whether their current gear meets appropriate protection levels.
It includes a step-by-step ensemble selection matrix and maintenance guidance for PPE longevity.
Departments are advised to verify third-party certification and conduct field testing with all accessories in place, such as radios or cooling systems.
According to the IAFC, some non-certified accessories may interfere with ensemble integrity if not properly assessed.
The guide highlights the importance of fit, breathability, and mission-specific adaptations in ensemble choice.
The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has released a new CBRN PPE guide.
The guide is titled What You Need to Know About CBRN.
It was published in October 2024.
It consolidates standards NFPA 1991, 1992, and 1994 into NFPA 1990.
It outlines five ensemble classes based on hazard type and exposure risk.
It includes PPE requirements for hazmat, terrorism, and emergency medical response.
It describes respiratory protection standards from NFPA and NIOSH.
It covers PPE selection, certification, and field use considerations.
All information in the guide was reviewed by NFPA stakeholders.
The guide is available as a free PDF.
