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Standards & Testing

NFPA standards to minimize the possibility and effects of fire and other risks have been adopted by all levels of government, in many cases giving the standards the force of law. In order for an element to be labeled certified to a given NFPA standard, it must be tested by an independent third-party organization that is not owned or controlled by manufacturers or vendors of the product being certified. This independent third-party company verifies that the design and construction is in accordance with design requirements, and that the element has successfully passed all performance requirements set forth in the standard to which it is labeled.

NFPA Test Methods

Thermal Protective Performance (TPP)

TPP measures the rate at which convective and radiant heat penetrate through protective clothing to cause second-degree burns.

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Total Heat Loss (THL)

A measurement of how much heat transfers through a garment.

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THL vs. TPP

Generally as TPP goes up THL comes down, and as THL goes up TPP comes down, so the goal is to balance the two values to achieve the level of protection required.

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Variability in TPP and THL Results

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Conductive and Compressive Heat Resistance (CCHR)

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More About Standards

Federal & State OSHA Standards

What do you need to know about federal and state requirements for personal protective equipment?

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The Risk Assessment Requirement

NFPA 1851 requires fire departments to perform a Risk Assessment prior to starting the selection process of protective gear.

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Testing & Certification of Your Turnout Gear

Generally as TPP goes up THL comes down, and as THL goes up TPP comes down, so the goal is to balance the two values to achieve the level of protection required.

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