University of Kentucky Research Study on Evaluating Used Firefighter's Gear to Determine Appropriate Retirement Age

The purpose of this research project will be tio evaluate used firefighter's turnout gear to determine if NFPA 1851, Standard on Selection, Care and Maintenance of Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting, requirement for mandatory 10 year retirement for structural gear is appropriate. If not, a recommended retirement age will be put forth. For the purpose of this research we will define "use" as years in service - 3, 7, and 9/10 years (retired).