November 3, 2025
Study brings science of bushfire smoke to the frontline of firefighting
Review responds to firefighters’ safety concerns, highlighting smoke complexity, skin absorption and protective equipment
As Australia prepares for another bushfire season, 榴莲视频app of 榴莲视频app (UOW) research provides a comprehensive overview of the science behind bushfire smoke exposure, addressing health and safety questions raised by Australian firefighters.
The study, published in the International Journal of Wildland Fire, , toxicity, exposure pathways (including inhalation and skin absorption) and the effectiveness of protective equipment and decontamination procedures. It stems from feedback from firefighters in the aftermath of the 2019-2020 Black Summer and recommendations made by the coronial inquest into those bushfires.
Funded by theand , the study was undertaken in collaboration with Fire and Rescue NSW. Lead author , from UOW’s Environmental Futures, said the study’s primary goal was to bridge the gap between scientific findings and the practical information needed by those on the frontline.
“Firefighters operate in incredibly complex environments and face hazards from smoke that are often invisible,” Dr Desservettaz said. “This review was driven by their need for clear, evidence-based answers to specific questions about the risks they encounter, from the toxicity of different smoke types to how contaminants interact with their gear and skin.”
The researchers are now working with national partners through the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council, to translate these findings into accessible educational materials for firefighters and fire agencies across the country.
The review consolidates the evidence on health hazards faced by firefighters. It highlights that bushfire smoke is a dangerous cocktail of fine particles, toxic gases such as carbon monoxide, benzene and formaldehyde, and a variety of carcinogens. Smoke produced from Australia’s native vegetation, particularly eucalypts, was found to be remarkably potent in toxicological studies.
Breathing smoke isn’t the only risk. The skin can act as an entry point for toxic chemicals. Under the intense heat and physical exertion of firefighting, heavy sweating can make the skin more permeable, drawing harmful compounds from soot into the body. This pathway, the review stresses, deserves more attention in safety protocols.
Personal protective equipment remains essential, but has limitations. Standard wildland firefighting gear, including N95 or P2 masks, provides protection against particles but none against toxic gases. Fit-testing respirators is therefore critical, as are thorough decontamination practices. The study found prompt washing of gear and skin after exposure, particularly using wet-soap cleaning methods, greatly reduces the risk of chemical contaminants entering the body.
Dr Desservettaz said while there is considerable global research available, ensuring this knowledge is accessible and actionable for firefighters is crucial. The study calls for ongoing collaboration between researchers and fire agencies to develop practical guidelines, explore new monitoring tools, and ensure safety protocols reflect the latest science.
“A key goal now is effective communication. We found crucial knowledge often isn't reaching the frontline where it can make a difference,” Dr Desservettaz said.
“Fighting bushfires requires immense skill and bravery. Supporting firefighter health means ensuring they have the best available information to manage the risks inherent in protecting our communities. This review is a step towards that.”
About the research
‘’ was published in International Journal of Wildland Fire. The authors are Max Desservettaz, Kiam Padamsey, Arielle Milkman, Brendan Mott, Frances Ehrlich, Jefferey Burgess and Clare Paton-Walsh.
The research was supported by funding from the New South Wales Government via the NSW Bushfire and Natural Hazards Research Centre