The New Gold
Standard.
“Ensuring that the gear protecting the firefighter is itself protected from degradation.”
NFPA 1850 consolidates structural and proximity fire fighting ensemble care. It dictates exactly how departments must inspect, clean, and repair PPE to ensure it meets original safety specifications throughout its life cycle.
ADVANCED INSPECTION
Detailed component-by-component check performed by trained personnel or verified ISP.
VERIFIED REPAIRS
All structural repairs must be performed by the manufacturer or a verified ISP to maintain NFPA compliance.
10-YEAR RETIREMENT
NFPA 1850 reinforces the mandatory retirement of ensembles 10 years from the date of manufacture.
DOCUMENTATION
Requires meticulous record-keeping of every cleaning, repair, and inspection for the life of the gear.
ISP VERIFICATION
Third-party verification of Independent Service Providers ensures quality and safety standards are met.
Frequently asked questions
What is NFPA 1850?
NFPA 1850 is the NFPA standard on selection, care and maintenance of protective ensembles for structural and proximity firefighting and open-circuit SCBA. The 2026 edition combined NFPA 1851 (turnout gear) and NFPA 1852 (SCBA) into one standard. It applies to the fire departments that own and maintain the gear.
Does NFPA 1850 replace NFPA 1851?
Yes. NFPA 1851 and NFPA 1852 were consolidated into NFPA 1850, 2026 edition, which took effect September 9, 2025. If your department policy or SOPs still cite NFPA 1851, they should be updated to reference NFPA 1850.
How often does turnout gear need advanced cleaning under NFPA 1850?
Issued turnout gear needs an advanced cleaning at least once every six months, and again any time it has been contaminated by products of combustion or other hazardous exposure.
How often does turnout gear need an advanced inspection?
At least once a year, and any time damage is suspected. An advanced inspection goes layer by layer and includes checks, like moisture barrier testing, that a routine station inspection doesn't cover.
What changed for gear cleaning in NFPA 1850?
The maximum wash water temperature rose from 105°F to 120°F. Water hardness should stay below 60 ppm. Lithium-ion battery contamination was added to the decontamination guidance. Departments are also now expected to consider washing new gear before it is issued.
Who can perform an advanced inspection?
Someone with documented training, such as a verified Independent Service Provider (ISP), an organization trained by the manufacturer, or the manufacturer itself. Many departments use a verified ISP so the inspection, hydrostatic testing and records are handled in one place.