The recognition of carcinogens remaining on personal protective equipment (PPE) has resulted in a structured cleaning approach for potentially contaminated kit in UK fire and rescue services, but what about the person wearing this PPE?
Global studies have demonstrated that firefighters are up to three times more likely than the general population to develop cancer before age 75. This figure rises to five times where there is continuous exposure through a failure to properly clean off contaminants.
DeCon Wipe is an ‘after the fire’ wipe for use by first responders. It has been designed and tested to provide immediate and long-lasting protection from hazardous contaminants for firefighters and first responders across the UK, to address the risks associated with carcinogens whilst also avoiding potentially skin-damaging decontamination materials.
Careful consideration, testing and development have resulted in the DeCon Wipe, a solution that is scientifically formulated to remove and eliminate carcinogens and bacteria through its key ingredient, micellar water, a proactive compound that defends the skin against hydrocarbons, soot and dirt with ease. Put simply, DeCon Wipes draw out impurities and clean without drying out the skin.
Risk factors
- Human skin becomes 400% more absorbent with each 5 degree rise in temperature
- Cancer is the leading cause of death for firefighters
- Firefighters are at greater risk of contracting multiple forms of cancer
Nanotechnology
Micellar water is a great example of nanotechnology at work in a very practical way. It is composed of micelles which are tiny balls of cleansing molecules suspended in soft water
to create a molecule cluster.
Each end of the molecule is diametrically opposed with one end attracted to water and the other repelling it. In a water solution they group to form a spherical shape with a water-loving exterior and water-hating interior. As a result of this opposing structure, micelle spheres split when gently applied to the skin forcing them to open against the surface.
Once pressure is relieved the molecular cluster closes, trapping anything that isn’t water and removing it from the surface of the skin. This molecular process dissolves the bond between contaminants and the skin to separate and enable safe removal without spreading it further. The contaminant and water separation can then be achieved without drying out the skin.
Product solution
- DeCon Wipes are available as individual packs in sizes:
- 60cm x 30cm
- 30cm x 20cm – also available in multi-packs of 40
- DeCon Wipes are scientifically formulated to eliminate carcinogens including soot, oil and dirt
- Individual DeCon Wipe packs fit easily into a pocket
- DeCon Wipes have a three-year shelf life
- DeCon Wipes are biodegradable
About DeCon Wipe
Decon Wipe Ltd is a UK company and has designed and manufactured these unique wipes after talking to firefighters who want to decontaminate themselves immediately after exposure.
Contact DeCon Wipe by email at [email protected] for a free sample to see the difference compared to regular wipes.
For more information, go to dewipe.com/after-fire-decontamination-wipe/
