East Providence Fire Department becomes the first in the U.S. to adopt department-wide non-PFAS turnout gear, thanks to a pioneering partnership between protective gear manufacturer Fire-Dex and textile innovator Milliken & Company.
The East Providence Fire Department has made history, becoming the first fire department in the United States to fully equip its personnel with non-PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) turnout gear. This landmark achievement is the result of a strategic and collaborative partnership between leading protective gear manufacturer Fire-Dex and innovative textile solutions provider Milliken & Company. The move signals a crucial step forward in firefighter safety, addressing long-standing concerns about the health impacts of "forever chemicals" traditionally used in protective equipment.
The city of East Providence invested a substantial $658,000 to procure 170 sets of this groundbreaking gear, ensuring that all 125 full-time firefighters will receive new, safer uniforms. A key component of this advanced gear is Milliken Assure, North America's inaugural non-PFAS, non-halogenated flame-resistant moisture barrier. This innovative material eliminates the need for fluorinated chemistry in the critical moisture barrier layer, which has historically relied on these chemicals for their repellent and pathogen-resistant properties.
East Providence Fire Chief Michael Carey emphasized the department's proactive approach: “This is about progress, partnership, and making deliberate decisions that reflect our department’s values. We’re proud to work with U.S. suppliers who share our vision and respond with innovation and accountability.” His sentiments were echoed by East Providence Mayor Roberto DaSilva, who stated, “Fire-Dex and Milliken listened closely to what we wanted and worked with us every step of the way. This gear delivery represents more than new uniforms—it represents a commitment to keep our firefighters protected when they put their lives in danger to keep our communities safe.”
The decision to transition to non-PFAS gear is particularly timely, aligning with a growing national movement to find safer alternatives for firefighting equipment. In Rhode Island, House Bill 5019, introduced earlier this year, aims to prohibit the use of intentionally added PFAS in firefighter turnout gear sold or used in the state starting in 2027. East Providence's preemptive adoption positions them as a leader in this critical public health initiative.
The comprehensive turnout gear solution developed through this partnership is notable for its complete absence of fluorinated chemistry across all three protective layers: the outer shell, thermal liner, and moisture barrier. While non-fluorinated options for outer shells and thermal liners have been available, the breakthrough of Milliken Assure™ in October 2024 was pivotal. Its introduction enabled Fire-Dex to offer a fully compliant and high-performing solution where all three layers meet stringent performance expectations without any PFAS chemicals. This new gear has undergone rigorous performance and safety testing, achieving UL certification and meeting the robust NFPA 1971-2018 standard, ensuring its reliability and protective capabilities for firefighters in the field.
