FEMA Grant Awarded
The NexGenPPE team was awarded a $1.57 million grant by FEMA to continue their research in the decontamination of firefighter gear and PPE. The project explores how to properly clean gear contaminated at fire scenes by smoke and other chemicals. Often this equipment holds onto hazardous contaminants despite washing and standard laundering, and the long-term exposure results in firefighters contracting cancers at a greatly elevated rate.
This research is done with the collaboration of several faculty, staff, and students in ISU's AESHM, Engineering, Kinesiology, and other departments. Several firehouses across the United States have worked with the Iowa State team, as this project will have a powerful impact on the health and livelihood of firefighters as they continue to do their important work for society.