Non Halogenated Flame Resistant

In firefighting, we often talk about 'FR' (Flame Resistant) fabric and the need for gear made with these materials. While outer shell and thermal liner fabrics get their FR properties from the aramid fibers they're made with, the moisture barrier membrane of turnout gear requires a different approach. Some manufacturers use halogenated compounds made with elements like bromine and chlorine to ensure moisture barrier membranes are flame-resistant. More recently, however, there has been a shift away from these halogenated FR chemistries, in favor of non-halogenated FR options.

But how much do you know about halogenated materials? If tasked with selecting the gear for your department, are you confident in your abilities to evaluate the FR chemistries used? Let's find out with a quick quiz.

Test Your Knowledge on FR Chemistries:

1. What are halogenated-FR materials and how do they function?

    a) They are materials treated with halogens like chlorine or bromine to inhibit combustion.
    b) They are naturally flame-resistant materials.
    c) They are materials designed to absorb moisture.
    d) They are materials that decompose at high temperatures.

2. What are the primary concerns associated with halogenated-FR materials for firefighters?

    a) They are too expensive to produce.
    b) According to the EPA, they may release toxic gases when exposed to high temperatures, posing health risks.
    c) They are less effective at resisting flames compared to other materials.
    d) They degrade quickly in wet conditions.

3. Why is the IAFF advocating for a shift away from halogenated-FR materials?

    a) They believe halogenated-FR materials are outdated.
    b) They are concerned about the health and safety risks associated with these materials.
    c) They want to reduce costs for fire departments.
    d) They prefer materials that are easier to manufacture.

You might have noticed we didn't include the answers to the quiz. Let's talk about halogenated flame-resistant materials, and you'll find the answers as we go. We'll cover what they are, their history in building materials and firefighting PPE, and the safety concerns they pose, especially for firefighters. We'll also explore the benefits of non-halogenated alternatives, the IAFF's stance on these materials, and what this means for fire departments.

Before we break out the periodic table and start our chemistry lesson, it's important to note that Milliken & Company is a global manufacturing leader focused on materials science. With a community of innovators that includes numerous PhD chemists on staff, there were plenty of resident FR experts available to fact-check this piece and help inform its content. Let's dive in!

What Are Halogenated Flame-Resistant (FR) Materials?

Halogenated flame resistant are chemicals that include elements from the periodic table, such as bromine and chlorine. These elements are part of a group called halogens, which you might recognize from everyday items like table salt (sodium chloride) and iodized salt. Halogens are essential for life; for example, your body contains about 0.2% chlorine.

When halogens are bonded with carbon, they form compounds known as organohalogens. These compounds are used in many products including building materials like PVC pipes, as well as firefighter PPE, because they help slow down the spread of fire.

In a fire, the carbon-halogen bonds in these materials break, releasing halogens into the flames. This process disrupts the fire's ability to burn efficiently, effectively "removing one leg of the fire triangle" and helping to extinguish the flames. This makes halogenated flame resistant very effective at stopping fires.

However, organizations like IAFF and the EPA have voiced concerns about the toxic byproducts that can be released when these materials burn, posing potential health risks for firefighters. This has led to a push for non-halogenated alternatives that can provide similar fire resistance without the associated risks. This has led to a push for non-halogenated alternatives that can provide similar fire resistant without the associated risks.

Understanding these safety concerns, it's crucial to look back at how halogenated flame resistant have been utilized in building materials and firefighter PPE over the years.

History of Halogenated FR Materials in Buildings & Firefighting PPE

The 1970s was a time when fire safety regulations were becoming stricter in response to devastating fires. To meet these new standards, halogenated flame resistant emerged as a viable solution to the problem. These chemicals were incredibly effective at reducing the flammability of materials, making them indispensable in various applications:

   
• Construction Materials: Halogenated FR Materials were added to building insulation, wiring, and structural components, ensuring that homes and buildings could withstand fire hazards.
   
• Furniture: Polyurethane foam in furniture, such as cushions and mattresses, was treated with halogenated FR materials to meet flammability standards like the California flammability standard TB117.
   
• Textiles: From sleepwear to industrial protective clothing, halogenated FR materials were used to reduce the risk of fire in everyday fabrics.

As the use of halogenated FR materials expanded, their role in firefighting gear became crucial. Firefighters needed protection against the intense heat and flames they faced. They started being incorporated into turnout gear, significantly improving its heat and flame resistance. This advancement meant that firefighters could perform their duties with greater safety and confidence.

However, as time passed, a new challenge has emerged and the fire safety community is at a crossroads. While halogenated FR materials have played an important role in protecting lives and property there is growing awareness of the health risks associated with chemical exposure, especially for firefighters who are frequently exposed to burning materials.

Why are Halogenated FR Materials a Concern for Firefighters?

There are growing concerns about the safety of halogenated flame resistant due to several factors:

   
• Persistence: These chemicals do not break down easily and can remain in the environment for many years.
   
• Bioaccumulation: They can build up in plants and animals, becoming more concentrated as they move up the food chain.
   
• Health Effects: Studies have shown that some halogenated FRs can disrupt hormones, affect neurodevelopment and reproductive systems, suppress the immune system, and even cause cancer.
   
• Toxic Smoke and Carcinogens:: Halogenated FRs, particularly brominated flame resistant, have been found to release toxic smoke and carcinogenic compounds when burned. These compounds can include dioxins and furans, which are highly toxic and can cause cancer.
   
• Regulatory Concerns: Due to these risks, many halogenated FRs are being phased out or regulated more strictly in various regions, including the European Union and some states in the US.

Why Are Halogenated Chemistries Still in Use?

Although the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has banned or severely restricted certain organohalogens for over four decades, their use in some turnout gear materials persists.

Why? Because halogenated FR is an area of ongoing research. The specifics of which organohalogens have the negative properties listed above are still being studied. Various organizations, including the US EPA, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), and other certification bodies, are constantly updating their lists of concerning chemicals. Because these lists are always changing, some groups have taken the stance that all halogenated FR chemistry should be avoided.

What Can Be Done?

Firefighters and PPE managers should stay informed about the latest research and regulations regarding halogenated FRs. Choosing turnout gear made with non-halogenated, safer alternatives can help reduce potential risks.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the EPA study on the environmental and health impacts of organohalogens

The IAFF’s Stance on Halogenated-FR Materials

The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) has voiced concerns about the use of halogenated flame resistant in firefighter gear. The IAFF is advocating for safer alternatives that maintain the necessary flame resistance without exposing firefighters to these potentially dangerous chemicals.

They are actively pushing to reduce firefighters' exposure to harmful substances and are encouraging the industry to shift towards newer, non-halogenated flame resistant solutions. This proactive stance aims to ensure the safety and health of firefighters while still providing thorough protection against fires.

What Does this Mean for Fire Departments?

Firefighters need to be aware of the flame-resistant chemistries used in their turnout gear. It's crucial to ask PPE manufacturers specifically about the presence of halogenated flame resistant in their fabrics. By doing this, departments can make informed decisions and opt for safer, non-halogenated turnout gear layers.

Turnout gear can be made with non-halogenated flame resistant and still meet all the necessary safety standards. Not all is lost; there are other ways to put out a fire. While halogenated flame resistant work by releasing gases that disrupt the fire, non-halogenated flame resistant, like those based on phosphorus, stop fires by forming a protective char layer.

Firefighters can take proactive steps to make educated decisions about their gear and minimize exposure risks:

   
1. Learn About the Flame-Resistant Chemistry in Your PPE: Educate yourself on the types of flame-resistant chemicals used in your turnout gear. Understanding what you're wearing is the first step towards ensuring your safety.
   
2. Ask Your Gear Manufacturer: Reach out to your PPE manufacturer and inquire whether their products contain halogenated flame resistant. Knowing the specifics can help you make informed decisions about your gear.
   
3. Consult Fabric Manufacturers: Engage with fabric manufacturers, such as Milliken , to learn about the materials they use and their commitment to safer, non-halogenated flame resistant. This can provide additional insights into the safety and quality of your gear.

Stayed Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest research, safer alternatives, and industry trends. This knowledge will empower you to advocate for better, safer gear within your department.

Answers to the Quiz

Now that we've gone over halogenated flame resistant (FR) materials, it's time to reveal the answers to our quiz. Let's see how well you did!

1. What are halogenated-FR materials and how do they function?
   Answer: a) They are materials treated with halogens like chlorine or bromine to inhibit combustion.
2. What are the primary concerns associated with halogenated-FR materials for firefighters?
   Answer: b) They may release toxic gases when exposed to high temperatures, posing health risks.
3. Why is the IAFF advocating for a shift away from halogenated-FR materials?
   Answer: b) They are concerned about the health and safety risks associated with these materials.

For more detailed information, you can check out the sources we used:

• IAFF's Stance on Flame Resistant
• EPA’s Science Inventory on Organohalogen Pollutants and Human Health

We hope this has helped you understand halogenated flame-resistant materials and their impact on firefighter safety. With this information, you can be confident you're making the best decisions when it comes to choosing materials for turnout gear.