Summary
Firefighter turnout gear provides critical thermal protection during fire response, but it can also accumulate hazardous chemicals such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These compounds are persistent, carcinogenic contaminants formed during combustion and have been linked to increased cancer risk among firefighters. This project evaluated the performance of a commercially marketed microbe-containing detergent (MCD) designed to degrade PAHs from contaminated textiles. Because the product is substantially more expensive than conventional detergents, its effectiveness was systematically assessed under varying washing conditions, including differences in agitation, detergent type, and wash duration. The study examined whether microbial degradation meaningfully enhanced chemical removal beyond what is achieved through conventional washing mechanisms. By comparing PAH removal efficiency across treatment conditions, this work aimed to determine whether biological additives provide measurable remediation benefits for contaminated protective gear. The findings contribute to evidence-based evaluation of emerging decontamination products and inform best practices for reducing firefighter occupational exposure.