“Numerous studies conducted by independent institutions in Europe and the USA have shown that the substances to which firefighters are exposed during their interventions pose a serious risk to their health. Up to a few years ago, there was no technology available that could completely decontaminate the equipment without damaging its mechanical and protective properties. We are proud to announce that from now on, with this decontamination centre in Slovenia, this is possible,” added Štebe.
Thomas Uihlein, the Director of Fraport Aviation Academy, also expressed his satisfaction with the opening of the new decontamination centre, emphasizing that he very much welcomes individuals and companies who are “aware of the current and future challenges in the field of firefighting, and are investing their broad knowledge, resources and ideas for better working conditions of firefighters not only in Slovenia, but all over the globe. The Aviation Academy does this primarily by raising the awareness of our training participants of all the dangers that firefighters face on a daily basis during their work.”
The centre is based on the latest technology from the world-renewed washing machine manufacturer, Electrolux Professional, a pioneer in the manufacture of liquid CO2 decontamination machines. Eugenio Filoni, its Global Segment Manager, said that the company “has been developing cleaning technology for firefighting equipment for more than a decade, thus ensuring healthier working conditions and a better quality of life for firefighters around the world.”
Decontamination with liquid CO2 is currently the only suitable solution, since as it is an extremely thin liquid with low viscosity, density and surface tension which can easily penetrate and clean the pores of the membrane without damaging it. Due to its properties, liquid CO2 dissolves impurities very well. The new processes can effectively decontaminate, clean, disinfect and impregnate police, military and sports equipment.