Continuous Improvement
Our Approach to Continuous Improvement in fire emergency services
In today’s dynamic business landscape, continuous improvement is no longer optional; it’s essential for survival and growth. At AFSO21 LLC, we’re passionate about helping organizations like yours achieve operational excellence through a structured and collaborative approach to continuous improvement.
We understand that each organization is unique, with its own set of challenges and opportunities, especially those providing fire emergency services. That’s why we begin with a thorough assessment of your current processes, identifying areas for improvement and understanding your specific goals. Whether you’re looking to increase efficiency, reduce costs, enhance quality, or boost employee / member engagement, we tailor our solutions to meet your specific needs.
Our experience brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in various continuous improvement methodologies. We work closely with your employees / members at all levels, empowering them with the skills and tools necessary to drive positive change. This collaborative approach ensures that improvements are not only implemented but also sustained over the long term.
Key Support Areas:
- Process Mapping and Optimization: We streamline workflows to eliminate bottlenecks and reduce waste, resulting in faster turnaround times and improved productivity.
- Quality Management: We implement robust quality control systems to minimize defects, enhance product quality, and increase customer satisfaction.
- Data Analysis and Performance Measurement: We track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure progress, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions for ongoing improvement.
- Employee Training and Development: We provide training programs that build a culture of continuous improvement, empowering employees to identify and implement solutions.
Our commitment to continuous improvement extends beyond the initial implementation. We provide ongoing support and guidance to ensure that your fire emergency services organization continues to evolve and adapt to new challenges. With our partnership, you’ll gain a competitive advantage by creating a more efficient, effective, and sustainable organization.
PFAS Exposure Education & Management
AFSO21 offers experience with developing and maintaining a PFAS Exposure Management program designed to protect fire emergency services personnel and community members from unnecessary exposure.
Everyday, firefighters around the world risk their lives to protect the communities they serve. Unfortunately, many firefighters may not realize there is a hidden danger lurking within their own turnout gear, the products they use to extinguish fires, their fire departments and even their homes. The danger is a group of odorless and colorless synthetic chemicals called PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances.
For decades, firefighters have been unknowingly exposed to PFAS chemicals. These toxic, synthetic substances known to exist in consumer products like non-stick cookware, food packaging, cosmetics, water and stain-resistant fabrics, and bottled water have recently been detected in firefighter turnout gear and firefighting foams, further increasing serious health risks such as various forms of cancer.
Approximately 110 million Americans have some level of PFAS in their bodies. Does your organization or community know what PFAS are? Does your organization use turnout gear and or firefighting foam that may contain PFAS? What if anything is your organization, local government, or community members doing to minimize or eliminate exposure to PFAS? Does your organization or local community have policies in place regarding PFAS?
AFSO21 can help with with reducing PFAS exposure risks to firefighters and the community they serve.
2025 U.S. Fire Service PFAS Exposure Survey
The FY2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) mandated the United States Department of Defense (DoD) offer PFAS blood tests to all DoD firefighters. In 2021, after an in-depth evaluation of the PFAS blood testing program, the Department of Defense Inspector General (DoDIG) found the DoD was not tracking, trending, or analyzing PFAS blood test data. Upon learning of this, AFSO21 immediately created a survey to determine what, if any, PFAS compounds DoD firefighters were exposed to. The results were alarming.
Previous surveys conducted by AFSO21 indicated that most survey participants had detectable levels of PFAS in their blood to include elevated levels of PFOA and PFOS. Approximately 96% of survey participants reported levels of PFHxS exceeding the CDC / NHANES Study’s Geometric Mean of 1.08 ng/mL (1,080 ppt). PFHxS is a lesser known PFAS chemical that is used to replace PFOA, a compound typically used and found in firefighter turnout gear and fluorinated firefighting foams, as well as other products.
AFSO21 is conducting the 2025 survey to further gather information about firefighter’s exposure to PFAS. Your participation will help raise awareness, advocate for change, and protect the health and safety of firefighters around the world.
Please take a moment to conduct this survey; your input is crucial.
Safety and Risk Management
AFSO21 LLC helps fire emergency services enhance safety and risk management by conducting comprehensive assessments of their operations and facilities. We identify potential hazards, evaluate existing safety protocols, and develop mitigation strategies to minimize risks.
Our services include:
- On-site safety audits: Identifying potential hazards in stations and during operations.
- Risk assessments: Evaluating the likelihood and impact of potential incidents.
- Development of safety protocols: Creating and implementing customized safety procedures to include Standard Operating Guidelines and or Policies (SOGs / SOPs)
- Training programs: Providing comprehensive safety training for firefighters.
By proactively addressing safety concerns and implementing effective risk management strategies, we help fire departments create a safer environment for their personnel and the communities they serve.
Strategic Planning and Community Risk Reduction
AFSO21 LLC helps fire emergency services develop data-driven strategic plans that align with community needs and long-term goals. We analyze community risk factors, population demographics, and emergency response data to identify key priorities and develop effective strategies.
Our services include:
- Community risk assessments: Identifying and prioritizing fire and safety risks.
- Strategic plan development: Creating actionable plans with measurable objectives.
- Community outreach programs: Designing and implementing public education initiatives.
By taking a proactive approach to community risk reduction and aligning resources with strategic goals, we empower fire departments to enhance their service delivery and improve public safety.