Analysis of Commercially Available Firefighting Helmet and Boot Options for the Joint Firefighter Integrated Response Ensemble (JFIRE)

The Air Force Civil Engineering Support Agency in conjunction with the Air Force Research Lab is exploring modifications the Joint Firefighter Integrated Response Ensemble (JFIRE) for firefighters. The JFIRE consists of the Joint Services Integrated Suit Technology chemical protective suit, helmet, gloves, boots, proximity jacket/trousers and self-contained breathing apparatus. This work focused on a comparison of commercial off the shelf helmet and boots that could be used in the ensemble. A requirements correlation matrix was generated and sent to industry detailing objective and threshold measurements for both the helmet and boot. In response, various manufacturers provided eight helmets and nine boots for the study. The helmet and boots were measured and weighed to determine differences in profile and mass compared to the baseline used in the current JFIRE. One helmet and boot were recommended for incorporation into the modified JFIRE.