Intelagard Launches Doff ‘n DECON™ To Reduce Firefighter Cancer Risk

20 May 2021

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Firefighters are dying of cancer. Exposure to carcinogens is the main culprit behind the high rates of cancer among firefighters.

Doff ‘n DECON™, a new turnout gear cleaner and decontaminate from the family of Intelagard decontamination products, may provide additional exposure protection. The formula neutralizes the most common carcinogens found on gear like Carbon Monoxide, Hydrogen Sulfide, and Cyanide.

Exposure to toxic chemicals

“Firefighters are true heroes who put their life on the line every day to keep us and our communities safe. There is an alarming number of firefighters who are dying from cancers caused by exposure to toxic chemicals released during a fire.”

“Intelagard is honored to release the Doff ‘n DECON™ to assist the decontamination of turnout gear and other PPE so our everyday heroes can focus their attention on the emergency they were trained to fight,” says Dennis Smagac, Intelagard President.

High risk of cancer

The increased rate of cancer among fire service members as compared to the general public is much higher

According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), the increased rate of cancer among fire service members as compared to the general public is much higher.

All equipment and clothing taken into service in response to emergency calls are exposed to contaminants. Even the best PPE gear cannot completely stop carcinogenic particulates from permeating it. Unless a thorough decontamination process occurs on the scene, contaminants are transported back to the fire station.

Advanced decontamination formulation

To help mitigate this, Intelagard is releasing Doff ‘N DECON™, a turnout gear decontaminate based on an advanced decontamination formulation created by Sandia National Laboratories.

The 3-part solution utilizes surfactants, peroxides, and a special booster to capture and lift contaminants from fabrics like Kevlar without degrading them. After mixing, the formula can immediately be applied as a foam, fog, or liquid decontaminate. For best results, use one of Intelagard’s select compressed air foam systems (CAFS).

Biodegradable solution

Doff ‘n DECON™ is inherently biodegradable and suitable for daily use on:

Turnout & bunker gear
Dive suits
Police vests
Hazmat suits
Hardhats, gloves & boots
PPE tools & supplies

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