ACTION REQUESTED:
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Communication from the City Manager and the Fire Chief with a Request to APPROVE the PURCHASE of Twenty (20) Complete Sets of Firefighter Turnout Gear (Personal Protective Equipment) for Wear Test Purposes from LION GROUP INCORPORATE, in the Amount of $20,000.00 and Ten (10) Sets of Firefighter Turnout Gear from MUNICIPAL EMERGENCY SERVICES (MES), in the Amount of $20,000.00, for a total Amount of $40,000.00.
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BACKGROUND: OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and NFPA (National Fire Protection Agency) requires that firefighters wear turnout gear (personal protective equipment) when entering atmospheres dangerous to life and health. OSHA requires that this turnout gear be replaced on a ten (10) year basis. Each of the twenty (20) sets that are being replaced for wear testing are ten (10) to thirteen (13) years old.
Since this is such a vital piece of firefighting equipment, a wear test is being proposed to determine the best gear for the department's needs. Two manufacturers that met the initial specifications were chosen for the test. This test will include multiple individuals on different shifts that are in current need of replacement gear. The test may last as long as six (6) months so that the gear can be used in many aspects of the firefighters' responsibilities, to include washing and drying. Once the wear test is concluded, the specifications for turnout gear will be determined for future orders.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: The cost of the project is $40,000. Funds are provided in the operating budget line item #101-2221-562.20-04
NEIGHBORHOOD CONCERNS: N/A
IMPACT IF APPROVED: The Peoria Fire Department will have an updated specification for Firefighting turnout gear, as well as the ability to replace twenty (20) sets of turnout gear that are currently 10-13 years old.
IMPACT IF DENIED: The Peoria Fire Department will continue to purchase turnout gear without utilizing any specifications that are best for the d...
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