Fire service boosts safety with new equipment

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) is enhancing firefighter safety with a major investment in “world-leading” breathing protection equipment.

The service has purchased 220 “state-of-the-art” breathing apparatus (BA) sets from Northumberland-based Draeger Safety UK, following a competitive tendering process. 

The new Draeger PSS Airboss system offers improved functionality and ergonomics, supporting the demands of modern firefighting, being highly effective in hazardous environments, including fires, chemical incidents and confined spaces.

Peter Heath, chief fire officer for Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We are proud to be continually investing in our workforce and in particular within the area of firefighter safety.

“The new BA sets will ensure inclusivity for all of our crews, and the investment reflects our strategic goals of effectiveness, efficiency and people.  

“The equipment is paramount for life-saving rescues when firefighters need to enter fires or other hazardous environments.

“As a former firefighter myself it is encouraging to see continual development and improvement of BA sets. 

“Draeger are one of the leaders in their field and are able to deliver significant benefits to our firefighters including weight reduction that helps to ease firefighter fatigue, enhances flexibility, and supports a diverse range of body types.  

“This will ensure that our operational personnel can perform effectively during high-pressure incidents.”

The equipment, set for delivery this month, will replace the existing BA sets, which have safeguarded the region’s firefighters for over 15 years.

The upgrade also aligns with TWFRS’s 2024-2027 Community Risk Management Plan, reaffirming its commitment to the safety of its firefighters.

Councillor Phil Tye, chair of the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Authority, added: “By modernising the Fire and Rescue Service’s BA equipment, we are reinforcing our commitment to providing a first-class emergency response, in turn, protecting our communities and safeguarding the welfare of our firefighters.

“This investment provides a range of important aspects including prioritising equality, safety and operational effectiveness, alongside empowering all staff to perform safely and confidently.

“The purchase of state-of-the-art BA sets is another example of TWFRS and the Fire Authority’s dedication to reinforce firefighter safety, operational excellence and delivering value for money for our communities.” 

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