CO₂ Decontamination for Firefighting PPE: Everything You Need to Know

By Kindra Foley, Director of Sales and Marketing for PPE & Fire

Firefighters face hazards not only on the front lines, but also in the lingering effects of what remains on their gear after the flames are out. Traditional cleaning methods often fall short in removing carcinogens and other harmful residues embedded in turnout gear and equipment. Enter CO₂-based decontamination—a powerful, sustainable, and gear-friendly solution for the modern firefighter.

This blog dives into the most frequently asked questions about CO₂ decontamination and why it’s becoming the go-to method for cleaning firefighting PPE.

700 L Machine holds 10-12 sets of gear including liners and shells and takes approximately 1 hour to decontaminate

What Is CO₂ Gear Decontamination?

CO₂-based gear decontamination uses carbon dioxide in a liquid or supercritical state to remove contaminants from firefighting gear. Acting as a solvent, CO₂ penetrates the fabric and extracts harmful substances—without compromising the structural integrity or protective properties of the gear.

What Contaminants Can It Remove?

CO₂ is highly effective against:

• Carcinogens

• Oils and hydrocarbons (diesel, gasoline, etc.)

• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

• Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)

• Biological agents

Compared to water-based methods, CO₂ achieves a deeper and more thorough clean, especially for oil-based contaminants.

Is It Safe for All Gear?

Yes. CO₂ is gentle on most turnout gear and SCBA components, including helmets, boots, and gloves. Unlike water-based systems, it doesn't degrade materials or require harsh agitation.

CO2 Cleaned Helmets

CO2 Cleaned Boots

CO₂ vs. Water-Based Cleaning

Here’s how CO₂ cleaning stacks up:

• No drying time needed

• Lower water and energy usage

• Less wear on fabrics and seams

• More effective at removing oil-based and carcinogenic residues

Cleaning cycles take 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, significantly faster than water-based processes that involve extended washing and drying periods.

Key Benefits for Fire Departments

• Effective contaminant removal without damaging gear

• Improved firefighter health by reducing exposure to carcinogens

• Eco-friendly and resource-efficient

• Versatile cleaning for SCBA, helmets, gloves, and other accessories

Health & Safety First

Firefighting is inherently dangerous—but contaminated gear shouldn't add to the risk. CO₂-based decontamination helps ensure firefighters are not re-exposed to toxins after each incident. This proactive step in gear hygiene can significantly reduce long-term health risks.

Beyond Fire Gear: Versatility in Cleaning

The CO₂ system isn’t just for firefighting PPE. It’s also used to clean:

• Ballistic vests

• Leather accessories

• Sanitation uniforms

• Oil field gear

• Medical or cleanroom garments

In some applications, CO₂ cleaning is paired with other methods to reach industry-specific sanitation levels—like a log 7 biological hazard reduction.

Are There Any Limitations?

While CO₂ cleaning is incredibly effective, there are a few exceptions:

• Not recommended for soft rubbers, which may bubble due to depressurization

• Integrated battery components (e.g., powered SCBA masks) should not be cleaned via CO₂ due to risk of damage

Environmentally Responsible Cleaning

How Is CO₂ Sourced?

The CO₂ used is recycled from local ethanol plants, lowering the system’s carbon footprint.

What Happens to the Contaminants?

Contaminants are captured in a sludge tank, which is emptied into a 55-gallon drum every 6–7 months. These are disposed of safely through certified environmental partners.

Sustainability at a Glance:

• Zero water use

• 50% less energy consumption

• No harsh chemicals

• Minimal environmental impact

The Future of CO₂ Decontamination

At Tersus, innovation is ongoing. We’re building an in-house laboratory to test for:

• Heavy metals

• VOCs

• Flame resistance

• Durability and reflectivity

These advances will offer faster, more cost-effective testing solutions for fire departments across the country—raising the bar for gear safety standards.

CO₂-based decontamination isn’t just a cleaning method—it’s a revolution in firefighter health, safety, and gear longevity. Whether you're responsible for one station or an entire city's fire department, it's time to consider a smarter, cleaner, and more sustainable way to protect those who protect us.