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SEL Number: 01WF-01-HLMT
Title: Helmet, Wildland Fire Fighting Protective


Last Updated: 6/22/2017 9:32:40 PM

Previous SEL Number: 01WF-01-HLMT

Description: Items of protective equipment that provide protection to the head (certified as compliant with NFPA 1977).

ImportantFeatures: Wildland fire fighting protective helmets are hardhat-like head protection that meets further requirements for flame and heat resistance, impact resistance following radiant heat exposures, and specialized suspension and retention system requirements. Helmets must meet the Type 1, Class G requirements in ANSI Z89.1, Protective Headwear for Industrial Workers. These helmets are generally adjustable to fit individual wearers.

Operating Considerations: Wildland fire fighting includes fire suppression and property conservation in woodlands, forests, grasslands, brush, prairies, and other such vegetation, or any combination of vegetation that is involved in a fire situation but is not within buildings or structures. However, wildland fire fighting increasingly involves an urban interface, which requires protection to structures that are endangered by wildland fires.

The primary intent of wildland fire fighting protective clothing is to protect against possible exposure to high heat and flames that may occur during fire suppression and property conservation, though wildland fire fighters avoid situations where any continuous exposure to extreme conditions are involved. The protective clothing also affords some protection against physical hazards and is designed to be lightweight and comfortable over long wearing periods. NFPA 1977 certified protective clothing is not evaluated for protection from chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear agents. This protective clothing should not be used for structural firefighting operations.

Other than compliance with NFPA 1977, the most important selection factors in selecting wildland fire fighting protective helmets are adjustability for good fit, general wearing comfort, and durability. Use considerations are provided in OSHA Title 29 CFR Section 1910.132 and NFPA 1500, Standard on Fire Department Occupational Safety and Health Program.


Training Requirements: Core Training: OSHA 1910.132.
Initial Training: Moderate (1-2 days)
Sustainment Training: Moderate (1-2 days)


Mandatory Standards:


Applicable Standards and References: