Gear Compliance Alert: NFPA Turnout Standard Change & OR-OSHA Guidance

From Jason Jantzi, SDAO

Fire Chiefs and Fire District Boards, 

I’m often asked about expiration dates for turnout gear, so I wanted to take a moment to revisit this important topic. 

During the April 25, 2007, meeting of the Oregon OSHA Fire Service Advisory Committee, a member shared an update from NFPA:  “Effective July 1, 2007, structural turnouts with a manufactured date older than 10 years will no longer be accepted under NFPA standards.” 

Oregon OSHA’s Technical Section Manager, Peggy Munsell, clarified that “OR-OSHA has not formally adopted this NFPA standard. However, departments may choose to follow it, provided their internal standard is at least as effective as OR-OSHA’s current requirements.” 

I understand that tight budgets can make gear replacement a challenge. Still, aligning with NFPA guidance where feasible is a proactive step toward protecting your crews and preparing for future regulatory changes. 

Currently, Oregon OSHA’s PPE requirements for firefighters are outlined in the official rules, which include guidance on gear age and condition.  I’ve also requested a formal letter of interpretation from Oregon OSHA to provide further clarity on this subject. 

Recommended Actions for Fire Chiefs 

• Review your department’s turnout gear inventory and identify any gear approaching or exceeding the 10-year NFPA threshold. 

• Consider updating your internal PPE standards to reflect NFPA guidance, especially for structural firefighting gear. 

• Explore funding opportunities through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program, which supports gear replacement and safety initiatives. 
   

Meeting Minutes Reference: 
https://osha.oregon.gov/rules/advisory/ffac/Documents/ffac-04-25-2007.pdf 

If you have any questions about how this change may affect your department’s PPE policies or funding strategies, please don’t hesitate to reach out.