EVAC Systems Turnout Gear Pack | Field Manual & SOP

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EVAC Systems Turnout Gear Pack | Field Manual & SOP

Category: Duffel Bags

Difficulty Level: Tier 1: No Training Required

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Written by: Valerie Ellis Lavin

Quick Overview

The EP220 Turnout Gear Pack is a professional-grade transport and short-term storage system for structural firefighting PPE, used by firefighters and emergency operators to protect and move a complete ensemble between incident scenes, stations, and deployment locations.

The EP220 is built around a 1000 Denier Cordura Nylon shell that resists abrasion, tearing, and UV degradation during field transport. The main compartment is sized to hold a full structural ensemble, including coat, pants, helmet, boots, and SCBA mask, without compression. A dedicated Internal Glove/Hood Pocket segregates critical small items from soiled gear, reducing cross-contamination and preventing loss during transit.

Moisture management is a core capability of this system. The integrated Heavy-Duty Mesh Ventilation Window enables passive air exchange, allowing moisture vapor to escape from damp gear and mitigating mold, mildew, and thermal liner degradation. Improperly stored wet turnout gear degrades the thermal protective properties of the liner, increasing the risk of steam burns during subsequent fireground operations. The mesh window is a passive system and is not a substitute for proper drying on a gear rack upon return to station.

The EP220 supports three operational contexts: inter-shift storage at a station locker or ready room, post-incident transport of wet or contaminated gear back to station for decontamination per NFPA 1851, and transport to training facilities or mutual aid deployment staging areas. The bag does not decontaminate PPE and requires its own periodic cleaning, as the bag itself can become contaminated during use.

Field Application Steps

1. PRE-LOADING INSPECTION: Visually inspect the pack before each deployment. Confirm the mesh ventilation window is free of rips or snags, verify webbing handles are securely attached at all seam points, and ensure the interior is clear of debris from previous use.

2. ESTABLISH THE FOUNDATION: Place boots at the bottom of the main compartment with soles facing down on opposite sides. This creates a stable base that supports the remaining gear load without shifting during transport.

3. LOAD BULK ITEMS: Fold turnout pants and lay them over the boots, then place the folded turnout coat on top. Keep items as flat as possible to avoid unnecessary compression and maintain airflow within the compartment.

4. POSITION HEAD PROTECTION: Place the helmet dome-down in the center of the compartment. Store the SCBA mask inside the helmet to protect the lens from contact damage during transit.

5. SEGREGATE SMALL ITEMS: Place gloves, the Nomex hood, and any other small items into the dedicated Internal Glove/Hood Pocket. Do not place these items loose in the main compartment, where they risk contamination from soiled boots or helmets.

6. CLOSE AND CONFIRM: Close the main compartment zipper fully. If the zipper requires force to close, repack the bag. Overstuffing causes premature seam and zipper failure.

7. LIFT AND TRANSPORT CORRECTLY: Use the Heavy-Duty Webbing Handles exclusively for carrying. Do not drag the bag, particularly across the mesh window, on abrasive surfaces such as apparatus floors, concrete, or asphalt.

8. ORIENT FOR MAXIMUM AIRFLOW: When storing in a vehicle or locker, position the bag with the Mesh Ventilation Window facing outward or upward and fully unobstructed. This orientation is critical for passive air exchange around damp gear during transit.

9. UNPACK IMMEDIATELY UPON RETURN: Upon arrival at the station, remove all gear from the bag without delay and hang each item on a proper gear rack. Do not leave wet gear sealed in the bag for extended periods, as trapped moisture degrades thermal liner performance and creates conditions for mold and mildew growth.

10. CONDUCT POST-USE INSPECTION: After unpacking, inspect the bag for new rips, tears, contamination, or mesh damage. Check handle attachment seams for thread separation. Address any deficiencies before the bag is returned to service.

Equip Yourself: EVAC Systems Turnout Gear Pack – Ventilated Cordura Gear Bag

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LEGAL DISCLAIMER & SAFETY WARNING:
The information provided in this Luminary Global Field Manual is strictly for educational and informational purposes. It is not a substitute for formal medical, tactical, or professional training. In the event of a medical emergency, immediately seek professional help or contact emergency services. Luminary Global assumes no liability for the misuse of equipment, improper application of techniques, or any injuries/damages resulting from the use of these guidelines. Always rely on your official agency training, local laws, and established protocols during a crisis.