What is the primary purpose of the moisture barrier in structural firefighting PPE?

The primary purpose of the moisture barrier in structural firefighting personal protective equipment (PPE) is to keep liquids and moisture from reaching the skin. This feature is critical in protecting firefighters from the detrimental effects of water, chemicals, and biological contaminants that they may encounter in firefighting situations.

When firefighters are exposed to high heat and potentially hazardous environments, maintaining skin integrity is vital to prevent issues such as burns, infections, and hypothermia. The moisture barrier prevents these harmful substances from penetrating the gear and coming into contact with the skin, thereby enhancing the overall safety and effectiveness of the protective equipment during operations.

While enhancing breathability, providing insulation, and increasing comfort are also important aspects of PPE for firefighters, they do not match the critical safety function served by the moisture barrier in protecting against external liquids and contaminants.