Ballyclare selected as a supplier for National Firefighter PPE Framework

Ballyclare, a leading designer and manufacturer of firefighter PPE in the UK and Europe, has been appointed as a supplier on the NFCC National Firefighter PPE Framework, and is the only supplier selected to offer both fully managed services and purchase-only PPE solutions alongside aftercare support.

The National Firefighter PPE Framework is a new unified procurement initiative designed to help UK FRSs access modern, fit-for-purpose kit more efficiently. Managed by Kent and Medway Towns Fire and Rescue Authority, it gives FRSs access to approved PPE ensembles and maintenance services, whilst saving time and resources by streamlining the procurement process.

Following a rigorous and highly competitive tender process involving technical assessments, cost evaluations and practical user trials, Ballyclare’s specialist kit and associated services were selected across multiple categories including Managed Services, Structural Firefighting PPE, Lightweight Firefighting PPE, Structural Firefighting Boots, and Cleaning, Inspection and Repair Service.

Ballyclare’s submission featured a next generation variant of our popular Xenon structural firefighting ensemble, designed to provide exceptional protection when fighting the most intensive fires in buildings.

It comprises three layers of specialist fabric, reinforced elbow and knee pads for enhanced durability, and carefully-positioned fire retardant phosphorescent tape to increase visibility in low-light conditions. Crucially, the kit has been constructed with tough seams, stitching and strong fabric so that it’s able to withstand the physical demands of the job and rigorous cleaning without losing its protective qualities.

Also selected was Ballyclare’s newly developed hybrid lightweight jacket and trouser ensemble suitable for both technical rescue operations and wildland firefighting, and meeting the required EN standards for both. It features highly-specialist fabrics and innovative, ergonomic styling to keep firefighters both protected and comfortable when facing a variety of physically demanding operations. The fabric is inherently flame retardant and resistant to repeated washing, offering durable, waterproof protection from blood pathogens, chemicals and particulates.

Through the Framework, Ballyclare will also supply two well-established fire boot models from the Tuffking range, recognised by FRSs for combining wearer comfort with robust protection.  

The Framework additionally includes Ballyclare’s cleaning and maintenance provision, offering a seven day turn-around service for collecting, cleaning, repairing and returning kit to stations ready for use. By working with a professional cleaning partner with facilities in multiple locations across the UK, we can provide a swift turn-around of laundered kit, while ensuring garment integrity and helping to protecting firefighters from exposure to hazardous contaminants.     

We are delighted that our services have been selected through such a competitive process and that our kit has been recognised for its technical performance, wearer comfort and overall value for money. Our success reflects the strength of our product innovation, our deep understanding of the fire sector, the agility of our company as a UK-based SME and the expertise of our teams across design, manufacturing and service delivery.  

For fire and rescue services, the new Framework creates a more efficient and flexible route to accessing a pre-approved choice of high-performing PPE and the support services needed to maintain it throughout its operational life. By procuring kit in this way, fire and rescue services can reduce complexity, improve consistency and focus more time and resources on frontline delivery. Ultimately, it’s about helping to ensure firefighters have access to kit they can trust when it matters most, and we’re proud to be delivering that on a national scale.

For further information visit the Ballyclare website: ballyclarelimited.com 

Ballyclare is exhibiting at The Emergency Services Show 2026, taking place from 16-17 September at the NEC in Birmingham. You can find them on Stand J50. Register your interest to attend here.