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PODAB drying cabinets meet new NFPA 1850 standard for firefighter PPE
With the introduction of NFPA 1850, a new unified standard for firefighter personal protective equipment (PPE) care and maintenance, PODAB’s drying cabinets continue to meet — and exceed — the latest safety and performance requirements.
What is NFPA 1850?
The new NFPA 1850 Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of Protective Ensembles for Structural and Proximity Fire Fighting replaces and merges the previous standards NFPA 1851 and NFPA 1852. By combining these two standards, NFPA has streamlined the requirements for the inspection, cleaning, drying, and maintenance of firefighter gear to ensure greater consistency, safety, and performance across the entire PPE lifecycle.
A safer drying temperature
One of the most notable updates in NFPA 1850 is the new maximum drying temperature limit of 120°F (49°C). Previously, the limit was 105°F (40°C). This change reflects recent research showing that slightly higher drying temperatures are both safe and more effective for firefighter PPE when properly controlled.
At 120°F, moisture evaporates faster without compromising the integrity, fit, or protective properties of the gear. This helps ensure that turnout coats, pants, gloves, and boots are ready for service sooner, while maintaining the essential protection firefighters rely on.
PODAB’s technology ensures safe and efficient PPE drying
All PODAB drying cabinets for PPE are designed to comply with the new NFPA 1850 requirements. Our cabinets use gentle, non-mechanical drying with controlled humidity and temperature sensors to guarantee that garments never exceed the specified limits.
The result is faster, safer, and more uniform drying that preserves the material strength and impregnation of each garment, essential for long-term protection and performance.
Supporting firefighter safety every step of the way
PODAB has long collaborated with fire departments and organizations to develop drying solutions that minimize exposure to harmful substances and extend the life of PPE.
With NFPA 1850, we are proud to continue supporting firefighter health and safety by ensuring that every drying process meets the highest standards for care and compliance.