RPD Selection Information

Firefighting is regarded to be a special application due to the extreme conditions that are present. Firefighting tasks encompass structural firefighting (burning houses), hazardous materials (e.g. spilled chemicals), rescue and wildland firefighting. Such diverse activities incorporate a range of different hazards. Therefore, it is necessary that Respiratory Protective Devices (RPD) for firefighting fulfil additional requirements. These include higher resistance to heat and flame, increased mechanical stability and chemical resistance. RPD’s under ISO for Firefighting are designated by FF, followed by the numeric designation for specific firefighting application.

For products meeting AS/NZS 1716, refer to the manufacturer to confirm that the selected product/s as suitable for the intended Firefighting tasks and/or environments.

NOTE: For broader Firefighting PPE information, refer to AFAC (Australian and New Zealand Council for fire and emergency services) for further guidance and other firefighting PPE specific standards e.g. ISO 11999 series.

Reference/s for further information and detail:

• SA/SNZ TS ISO 16975.1:2023 – Selection, use and maintenance – Section 7.3.3.11.2
• SA/SNZ TS ISO 16973:2023 – Classification – Section 11.2 and Annex C
• ISO 17420.5:2021 Special Application fire and rescue services – Supplied Breathable gas RPD and filtering RPD