Gladiator 911 Update
...and compliance with upcoming NFPA standards
We know there are a lot of questions surrounding automated SCBA washing, upcoming updates on NFPA standards and knowing what the right solution is for your fire department moving forward. After much consideration, research and testing, we have provided a few updates on where the Gladiator 911 and Arnold Machine stands.
1. Is this machine approved by SCBA gear manufacturers?
Manufacturers are not “approving” cleaning equipment like the Gladiator 911. Manufacturers like Scott are choosing to tell customers that if they use automated washing equipment, they should follow NFPA guidelines and be conscious of water ingress into the pneumatic circuit and use the proper plugs (if applicable) when washing.
SCBA manufacturers may offer plug kits to prevent water ingress during washing.
Our machine is designed to wash at levels that do not exceed what the SCBA gear is designed for. (Examples; NIOSH Part 84 and NFPA 1981 and NFPA 1982.)
Resources
- https://multimedia.3m.com/mws/media/2240805O/update-on-use-of-automated-washers-for-3m-scott-air-pak-scba-cleaning-user-bulletin.pdf
- NFPA 1852, Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of Open-Circuit, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)
- NFPA 1851, Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting
WHAT ABOUT UPCOMING CHANGES TO NFPA 1851?
2. What is the status of the NFPA washing standard for SCBA and other gear other than turnout gear covered in 1851?
The NFPA is currently working on the standard for washing gear other than turnout gear.
The new NFPA 1851 standards are expected to be released as part of the NFPA 1850 standard, which combines NFPA 1851 and NFPA 1852. This new standard is scheduled for the Annual 2025 revision cycle (Firefighter PPE & Training)(ResponderHelp).
More information can be found here:
https://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/research/fire-protection-research-foundation/projects-and-reports/investigation-of-turnout-clothing-contamination-and-validation-of-cleaning-procedures
3. How is the machine adapted to the unknown washing standard from the NFPA?
The wash time, rinse time, and water temperature are all adjustable with the Gladiator 911. Cleaning chemicals are easily changed.
The machine automatically dispenses a programmed amount of water/soap solution each cycle, this too is adjustable if necessary. With over 30+ years of engineering washing solutions and compliance with many different washing standards across multiple industries, our engineers, technicians or trained distributors can make any necessary changes to existing equipment.
Other Gladiator 911 FAQs
1. What can I wash in this machine?
SCBA gear, boots, helmets, tools, radios (check ingress protection/IP rating), etc. Check manufacturer and NFPA cleaning guidelines prior to washing.
2. What type of soap can I use?
CitroSqueeze SC-14 (low foaming) is a mild detergent and the most commonly used soap.
3. How often do I need to add more soap?
Soap is automatically added with each wash cycle.
4. How many sets of gear can I wash at a time?
The machine will handle 2 full sets of gear per cycle.
5. How long is the wash cycle?
The minimum recommended wash cycle is 8 minutes; however, the wash cycle is programmable through the touch screen on the machine.
The NFPA 1851 standard may dictate wash cycle time when it is released. Our machine is adaptable to changes.
6. Can the water go to drain, or does it need to be hauled away?
Local regulations vary so please check with your local municipality or water department.
7. How extensive is the preventative maintenance?
- Hose out the inside of the tank and components.
- Changing the filter bag.
8. How often do I need to change the filter bag?
We recommend each time the tank is drained and refilled.
Filter bags are approximately $6-7 each.
9. How often do I need to drain the tank and refill?
This depends on soil load of the gear being washed, and how much/often it is being washed. We recommend changing water every 20 cycles, or at least every 15 days at a minimum.
The machine is drained by manually turning a valve, and the refill is automatic through touch screen.
10. Will you do the install?
Installation requirements are simply hooking up a water supply, 230v single-phase power, and a drain to a floor or sewer drain.
11. Do you offer start-up support?
Phone support is available for free. Onsite support is available for an additional cost.
We can provide onsite installation support for additional cost if necessary.
12. How many of these washers have you sold?
We have machines being utilized in multiple locations including a training center and local fire departments.
13. How much does it cost?
MSRP is $49,000
14. Are there any grants available or this?
In Ohio, the machine qualifies for the Bureau of Workers Compensation Safety Intervention Grant.
Also in Ohio, the BWC offers the Firefighter Exposure to Environmental Elements Grant. (FEEEG)
FEMA offers Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG).
Check your local city and state government grant options.
15. Where is the machine made?
We proudly design and manufacture the Gladiator 911 in Tiffin, Ohio, USA.
