In work that aims to protect soldiers from biological and chemical threats, a team of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory scientists has created a material that is highly breathable yet protective from biological agents.

This material is the first key component of futuristic smart uniforms that also will respond to and protect from environmental chemical hazards. The research appears in the July 27 edition of the journal, Advanced Materials (link is external).

"Don't fix what is not broken" is a common phrase used to impede change or at least to question change for change's sake. If we look at the turnout clothing industry, we actually see a product range that is relatively mature with continual, gradual improvements.

In essence, gear is pretty much the way it has been for more than two decades. Yes there are the occasional blips where something new comes along like barrier hoods, and novel improvements can bring about an interesting materials or features.

Firefighters often find themselves in situations where they are in danger of receiving burns because of a rapid rise in the ambient temperature to a level beyond the protective capabilities of the Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) and the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) worn by the firefighters. The hazard associated with infrared radiation (IR) is particularly acute because the intensity of IR can increase to dangerous levels in seconds.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) announces the availability of a new mobile application (app) version of its longstanding Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. The app was developed as part of the Worker Health History Small National Occupational Research Agenda (NORA) Project Award and can be used on any device with a Web browser.