The standards work conducted throughout last year had a large focus on the protection of frontline workers and safety requirements for tools firefighters use to protect individuals and infrastructure. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is used every day by Australian workers, and in the aftermath of the 2019/2020 bushfires there were important discussions conducted around the durability of uniforms and equipment used by our front-line firefighters. From steel-capped boots, P2 respirators and surgical masks to reflective eyeglasses and firefighters' helmets, these items are all essential to safe work practices. To better prepare for future fire seasons, Standards Australia's committee for Personal Protective Equipment (SF-052) worked throughout 2020 to adopt, discuss and develop guidance that supports safe and sturdy PPE. After seeing firefighters from North America sent to help fight the many blazes across the country, the committee worked with international colleagues to adopt key standards for PPE, from eye and face protection to protective gloves. These standards included test methods for protective equipment and general requirements.
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