Category: Case Studies

Kent FRS SPPE Framework

Posted on by Julie Roberts

Customer name – Kent Fire & Rescue Service
Business Sector –  State Brigade
Business Requirement – : Specific need PPE due to the increasing amount of Wildfire incidents occurring. Ensuring firefighters were not exposed to the risk of heatstress associated with using structural garments when attending wildfire incidents.

 

 

An Overview

Brett Egan-Briers from Kent Fire & Rescue Service (FRS) is the National Firefighters PPE Technical Advisor. He handled procurement for the National Specialist PPE (NSPPE) Wildland PPE Framework in 2022, which selected FlamePro’s Defender as the preferred wildland PPE ensemble for UK firefighters:

“The driver behind this procurement project was the increase in wildland fire incidents occurring in the UK. We have always been susceptible to heath, moorland and grassland fires in the summer months, but these were increasing in frequency and intensity, particularly in London and the South East which were affected by long periods of hot, dry weather.
Nominated by the Commercial Transformation Programme (CTP) as the lead service in creating national procurement frameworks for PPE, Kent FRS was tasked with identifying a preferred wildland kit for the UK’s firefighters, along with a maintenance package to handle ongoing repairs and cleaning. By working together to select a supplier, FRSs would benefit from economies of scale and more efficient route to purchase.

 

The requirement

Traditionally, UK firefighters have worn structural PPE to all call-outs. This provides full thermal protection when faced with intense fires in buildings, but can be heavy and cumbersome to wear. In reality, tackling structural fires is a small part of a firefighter’s role. Today we attend a wide variety of incidents, from road traffic accidents to flooding, as well as undertaking work in the community providing fire safety advice and education. Around 93% of the time, wearing full structural PPE isn’t necessary, and firefighters would prefer to be operating in kit that is lighter and more comfortable.

At a wildland fire, crews are likely to be wearing kit for long periods of time in hot weather and need to stay comfortable. Specific purpose wildland PPE is usually much better suited to these fires than full structural PPE. It needs to be resistant to radiant heat, flames and embers, but doesn’t require multi-layer thermal protection against the intense heat of structural fires. As a result, it is usually lighter and more breathable, which is preferable when fighting fires in hot weather. We set about creating a procurement framework to make it easier and more affordable for FRSs to purchase this specialist kit.

 

The tender process

A thorough pre-qualification assessment was conducted to verify important criteria amongst potential suppliers, and as a result, three PPE suppliers were invited to tender, each putting forward designs and samples for consideration.
The ensembles were then tested by a selection of firefighters from Fire and Rescue Services across the country, who undertook various training scenarios whilst wearing the kit. The entire process took into account transparency, innovation, business resilience, value for money, and feedback from the wearer trials.

FlamePro’s Defender was a firm favourite at the wearer trials, and the company’s in-house design, manufacturing and testing capabilities ensured that samples and designs met the technical requirements. In addition, FlamePro’s partnership with the Johnsons Workwear network of cleaning facilities across the country, meant that a comprehensive fully managed service package was available for FRSs in all locations, enabling crucial ongoing maintenance of the kit. As a result, Defender was selected as the wildland PPE of choice for the Framework.

To date, I understand that FRSs from Lancashire, Cumbria, Surrey, Hampshire, North Wales and Norfolk have purchased the kit, and are putting it to good use on wildland fire call outs.

 

 

The investment

Wildland fires are an increasing problem in the UK and likely to become more frequent with climate change. When considering costs, it’s important that FRSs look holistically at the whole life costs of their PPE stock in light of the incidents they are likely to face. Specialist PPE is often considered an additional cost, but can offer good value for money if it can help prolong the life of more expensive structural PPE.

All firefighters must have access to full structural PPE in case of a serious incident, and most have two personal issue sets to allow for cleaning. This kit is generally more costly due to the higher level of thermal protection and complex combination of materials required. However, the repeated wearing and washing of structural kit can shorten its useful life significantly, meaning that it’s not
economical to wear this kit to all call-outs. Depending on the location and types of incidents faced by individual FRSs, purchasing specific purpose Wildland or Technical Rescue PPE could save on the cost of replacing structural sets in the long run, whilst ensuring firefighters are working in comfort with suitable protection.”

National Ambulance Resilience Unit

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 Bespoke Garments: Supply and Distribution of PPE for the National Ambulance Resilience Unit HART.
 Timeframe: 6 – 8 weeks
 Contract Size: 1175 full ensembles per annum

 

Overview: The United Kingdom contract for Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) to the National Ambulance Resilience (NARU) Unit HART teams involved in National Emergencies and Crises, included full ensembles of equipment for a total of 1,175 personnel across the country.

 

The delivery time for these bespoke garments to be made to order is 6-8 weeks. The personal protection equipment is critical in keeping the team safe and assisting them playing a vital role in UK’s health services and emergency resilience. NARU is part of the National Health Service (NHS), funded by the Emergency Preparedness, Resilience and Response Department of NHS England.

Ministry of Defence – United Kingdom

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Bespoke Garments – Supply and distribution of PPE for the Ministry of Defence

Distribution: 97 sites globally

 

Contract Size: 5,000 full ensembles

 

Overview: The United Kingdoms Ministry of Defence (MOD) issued a contract to globally fit out all 97 UK defence sites with the supply and distribution of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE). This included full ensembles of equipment for 2,500 personnel, and logistics cover beyond the United Kingdom to strategic UK defence sites around the world.

 

Ministry of Defence – United Kingdom, Poland, LENP

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  • Arctic Sleeping bags (-30 degrees) 12,000
  • Arctic Bivvy Bags 12,000
  • Thick Roll Mats 12,000
  • Waterproof stuff bags 12,000

Timing: 7 weeks, shipments every 2 weeks

 

Overview: It was announced that the UK would send 12,000 sleeping kits to the Ukrainian Armed Forces to assist them in grueling winter conditions. Suppliers, however, had lead times of 6-12 months on the sleeping systems, and the MOD needed them in 12 weeks. Once DE&S and MOD had successfully validated our product, we used one of our contracted factories to successfully supply and ship the product. We carried out third-party inspections during production and carried out a final pre-shipment inspection for every shipment per week. Working closely with our factories, we enabled fast and efficient deliveries to be made to the UK MOD. This, in turn, allowed the MOD to fulfil the promise of the government to the Ukraine, on time, and in full for the Ukrainian winter period.

G4S Case Study

Posted on by dev@cda.group

Customer name – G4S
Location – Rosyth , Scotland
Business Sector – Industrial
Business Requirement – : Prioritise safety, address functionality concerns of existing gear, and seamlessly transition from outdated equipment.

 

Enhancing safety and boosting morale at G4S

 

G4S has revolutionised its Emergency Response Team with FlamePro’s cutting-edge structural fire suits. With an impressive 18-year legacy safeguarding a sprawling 303-acre site for Babcock International, G4S identified the pressing need for advanced protective gear. The mission was clear: prioritise safety, address functionality concerns, and seamlessly transition from outdated equipment.

 

For Shaun Fyfe, G4S Service Delivery Manager, the results speak volumes—boasting not only a significant enhancement in safety protocols but also a remarkable boost in team morale.

 

The challenge

 

The need for FlamePro construction of new class aircraft carriers, the Queen Elizabeth garments came about when the construction of new class aircraft carriers, the Queen Elizabeth and the Prince of Wales, required a dedicated Emergency Response Team. The existing fire protection teams needed upgraded equipment, as the old suits were becoming outdated and did not provide the necessary fit functionality required when working in confined shipbuilding spaces, where their kit could easily get caught. The primary objectives were to enhance safety, ensure functionality in confined spaces, and address issues with the previous gear, such as bagginess and wear and tear.

 

The product selection process

 

The quality of the work garments was paramount, given the intense and critical nature of their work. While budget constraints were a consideration, the focus was on ensuring the right equipment without compromising on safety and functionality.

 

“FlamePro’s Valiant garments stood out for their superior design, providing a great fit and flexibility essential for working in confined spaces. The decision-making process prioritised safety and functionality over cost, with a long-term perspective to avoid frequent kit renewals” says Shaun.

 

Outcomes and impact

 

G4S initially purchased 21 sets of FlamePro Valiant fire suits and was the first security team in Scotland to trail the brand-new Gallet helmets with integrated torches to prevent snagging. They are looking to roll out a further 15 sets in the coming year.

 

The feedback from the Emergency Response Team has been overwhelmingly positive. The new suits offer improved flexibility, better fit, and enhanced protection with features like Kevlar and carbon fibre components.

 

“There has been a significant reduction in wear and tear compared to the previous gear, leading to increased longevity” says Shaun.

 

The adoption of the Valiant kit at G4S has not only addressed safety concerns but has also significantly boosted the morale of the Emergency Response Team. The improved
functionality and comfort of the FlamePro gear have made the team feel like “superstars,” contributing to a positive work environment and feeling of belonging as more than a support function.

 

A lasting customer relationship

 

“Working with FlamePro has been seamless and I would recommend them to others” says Shaun, who also expressed satisfaction with the prompt responses and support provided by the FlamePro customer service team.

 

FlamePro demonstrated a commitment to customer satisfaction by addressing specific needs in a timely fashion, such as sourcing Gallet helmet covers to enhance product longevity.

FlamePro fire kit: The trusted solution for Farnborough firefighters

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When Farnborough Airport Rescue & Fire Fighting Service (FARFFS) sought to renew its personal protective equipment (PPE) contract, its criteria extended beyond exceptional safety gear. They were in search of a supplier capable of delivering outstanding customer service and prompt delivery. FlamePro, a renowned provider of life-saving garments to firefighters worldwide, with exceptional dedication to customer satisfaction, successfully secured the contract, offering 31 kits to FARFFS.

 

Positive trial feedback and enhanced mobility

 

FlamePro submitted a tender for the 10-year PPE contract, initially providing tunics and leggings for trial purposes. Following extensive trials by FARFFS, the feedback received was overwhelmingly positive, with the crews highly satisfied with the performance of the gear.

 

Firefighters particularly commended the integrated knee pads and praised the remarkable freedom of movement provided by our garments. The adjustment period for our PPE was minimal, quickly adapting to the body and allowing firefighters to carry out their duties without limitation.

 

Also, our boots garnered high praise for their immediate comfort, eliminating the need for an extended breaking-in period, unlike other brands. These lightweight boots don’t impede firefighters during incidents, enabling them to move swiftly and perform their duties efficiently.

 

Based on the positive trial experiences, our PPE emerged as the preferred choice for FARFFS’ firefighting operations.

 

Ed Knighton, Station Manager, expressed his satisfaction, saying, “The fit of FlamePro PPE is excellent, ensuring unrestricted movement and enabling our firefighters to respond effectively to emergencies and training exercises. I was impressed with how light the kit was and how easy it was to control body temperature.”

 

Flexible PPE solutions

 

Having secured the decade-long contract, FlamePro began providing 31 firefighters with boots, leggings, jackets and trousers, gloves, particulate flash hoods and helmets. Specifically for this project, we provided repairs, recycling, and laundering for these garments.

 

Emphasising firefighter health and safety

 

Recognising the risks associated with firefighter cancers, FARFFS prioritises clean equipment and post-incident PPE. Our washable gloves play a crucial role in limiting exposure to harmful particulates. In contrast to traditional leather gloves, which pose contamination risks and lack proper washing capabilities, the FlamePro washable gloves ensure efficient cleaning, alleviating concerns of contamination.

 

FARFFS also commended FlamePro’s industry-leading particulate flash hood, which provides an additional layer of protection against cancer-causing particulates. From the first use, this hood offers above 99% protection, surpassing alternative products.

 

Conclusion

 

FARFFS’ selection of the FlamePro fire kit stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to equipping firefighters with the finest gear available, guaranteeing their safety and effectiveness in the line of duty.

 

“As a seasoned firefighter with 32 years of experience, I have no hesitation in recommending the FlamePro fire kit”, concludes Ed.

Capita Case Study

Posted on by Julie Roberts

Customer Name: Capita
Business sector: MoD Fire Service
Year of order: 2023
Business requirements: Top to toe ensembles for military firefighters from a flexible supplier able to also provide a range of customisations, fully managed services, and the handling of ongoing maintenance and cleaning of the PPE.

 

An Overview

In 2021, FlamePro was awarded a 10 year contract by Capita to provide Firefighting PPE for the Ministry of Defence (MoD). Martin Trafford from Capita Fire and Rescue describes the procurement process, and explains how this has developed into a successful working relationship:

 

“Firefighters working for the MoD make up one of the largest Fire & Rescue Services (FRSs) in the UK. Our firefighters are located across 56 stations on RAF airfields, Royal Navy and defence sites. In addition, we have firefighters stationed overseas in locations such as Germany, Cyprus, Brunei, the Falkland Islands and the Ascension Islands. As a result, our firefighting PPE requirements are more complex than most. Like all FRSs we require high-quality full structural protection for our firefighters, but delivery and maintenance are more challenging given our widespread locations. Equally, our needs can change at very short notice, so we need suppliers that can be flexible and work to tight deadlines.”

 

The requirement

Our former firefighting PPE was coming to the end of its useful life, so we needed to re-tender for new kit. We required around 4,000 items to make up full top-to-toe firefighting PPE, comprising structural tunics, trousers, boots, gloves, helmets and flash hoods. These
would need to work together as an ensemble to offer suitable protection and meet the European standard EN 469:2020 Level 2. As military firefighters, there were some additional specifications to consider such as rank sliders and name badges for identification on the fireground. We also needed a supplier with capabilities for providing fully managed services, handling the ongoing maintenance and cleaning of the PPE.

 

 

The tender process

The tender process took around a year to complete, which is standard for this kind of contract. A request for proposal (RFT) was issued with a prequalification questionnaire, which led to four different PPE providers being issued an invitation to tender (ITT). These suppliers presented their most suitable products, which were then put through rigorous wearer trials with a selection
of firefighters testing the kit in a variety of training scenarios. FlamePro scored highly across the range of criteria which included price, quality and wearer comfort. The company offered a good selection of products to choose from and responded attentively to each specified element of the brief. We were also impressed with FlamePro’s strength in logistics and focus on swift delivery times. Thanks to the benefit of its in-house manufacturing capabilities, FlamePro was undeterred by the challenge of providing kit to various  locations in the UK and overseas.

 

 

The solution

FlamePro’s Valiant structural jacket and trouser set was selected as the clear front-runner. The combination of high-quality fabric technologies and innovative design was well received, and it scored particularly highly in the wearer trials for its comfortable and ergonomic fit. To complete the ensemble we selected Jolly 9305 pull-on leather boots, Holik Diamond short firefighting gloves, the MSA Gallet F1XF helmet, and FlamePro’s 171 Full Cover particulate protection hood, worn under the helmet to protect the neck and face from harmful smoke particles. We have since purchased additional specific purpose wildland firefighting PPE from FlamePro,
namely the Defender Wildland Firefighter Suit and compatible accessories, which is required for our firefighters in high-risk areas of the UK, and Cyprus for example.

 

 

Cleaning & maintenance

For essential care and maintenance, FlamePro provides managed services for all our UK sites via its partnership with the Johnsons Workwear network of cleaning facilities across the country. Kit is collected, cleaned, repaired if necessary, and returned within seven days as standard. For our overseas sites, the MoD has arrangements in place with local cleaning providers, and FlamePro assists by providing advice and instructions on optimal cleaning techniques.

 

 

Distribution & logistics

FlamePro has demonstrated excellent flexibility in responding to our distribution needs since the contact was awarded. Initially, overseas delivery was organised via the MoD’s ‘Purple Gates’ distribution hubs, but we realised efficiencies could be made by delivering kit directly to some overseas sites. FlamePro was able to adapt its systems to suit our needs, and re-routed
deliveries to minimise lead times.

 

Subsequently, the impact of Brexit saw the export of goods delayed by cumbersome tariffs and paperwork, so FlamePro adapted again, and has reverted back to the Purple Gate system which currently remains more efficient. Over time, we have been impressed with their ability to flex to deliver the best service for their customers depending on circumstances.

 

 

From the outset, FlamePro put a lot of time and effort into understanding challenges and nuances, but FlamePro has always been very good at responding to these needs and adapting swiftly to change. Defence services often have to respond quickly to global events, which means our suppliers must respond quickly too. With its control over manufacturing capabilities and excellent management of logistics, FlamePro has consistently delivered exceptional service and exceeded our expectations.