In Phase 1A, overall performance requirements and evaluation methods for firefighters protective equipment were established and published as the Protective Ensemble Performance Standards (PEPS). Current firefighters protective equipment was tested and evaluated against the PEPS requirements, and preliminary design of a prototype protective ensemble was completed. In Phase 1B, design of the prototype protective ensemble was finalized. Prototype ensembles were fabricated and subjected to a series of qualification tests which were based upon the PEPS requirements. Engineering drawings and purchase specifications were prepared for the new protective ensemble. In Phase 2, field test sites and test personnel were selected for evaluating the prototype emsemble. Site supervisors were indoctrinated with the program goals. Field test protocol was established. Data collection and evaluation formats were prepared and manufacturers of the field test ensembles selected. The test ensembles were ordered, delivered, and distributed to the field test sites. Due to delays in ensemble procurement and fabrication, data from the test sites were collected and analyzed for only 3 months. This was significantly less than the minimum of 9 months of field testing originally planned.