Provide infection control for fire service and emergency medical services personnel with the 2015 edition of NFPA 1581.

In their work with the public, fire fighters and EMS personnel can be exposed to a broad array of airborne and blood-borne infectious diseases. Use the latest protocols that address these types of occupational health risks and the need to protect fire service members in all phases of their work. NFPA 1581: Standard on Fire Department Infection Control Program contains requirements for a fire department infection control program.

Be proactive to reduce or eliminate potential exposures and provide prompt treatment. Requirements in NFPA 1581 cover the identification, evaluation, control, and monitoring of risks from infectious environments at the fire station, in fire apparatus, during procedures at an incident scene, and at any other area where fire department members are involved in routine or emergency operations.

Changes in the 2015 edition of NFPA 1581 help ensure the proper level of protection against infection.

• Department chiefs and infection control officers will find comprehensive information that helps them provide protection for personnel.
• The Standard and its requirements now also apply to ambulances. Revisions align with NFPA 1917: Standard for Automotive Ambulances, which has the latest parameters that ensure ambulances are safe and reliable.

NFPA 1581 applies to organizations providing rescue, fire suppression, emergency medical services, hazardous materials mitigation, special operations and other emergency services, including public, military, private, and industrial fire departments. The Standard does not apply to industrial fire brigades.