Protection for Firefighter ZIEGLER presents comprehensive hygiene solutions

Under the motto #readywhenyouare, ZIEGLER will showcase its latest innovations for fire departments and emergency personnel at INTERSCHUTZ 2026 in Hanover, where it will occupy approximately 3,000 square meters of exhibition space. A special focus will be on solutions for operational hygiene as well as multifunctional vehicle concepts that combine different tasks into a single system.

With a total of 12 vehicles and modern technical and digital solutions, ZIEGLER will demonstrate how operational procedures can be made more efficient and how emergency personnel can be specifically relieved of some of their workload.

Greater emphasis on operational hygiene

A key focus of the trade show presentation is the topic of hygiene after firefighting operations. Studies show that firefighters can frequently come into contact with harmful substances such as soot particles or carcinogenic combustion residues during operations. These can be absorbed through the skin, respiratory tract or contaminated equipment.

The risk of fire-related cancer is increasingly being discussed internationally. In Germany, too, awareness is growing regarding the importance of consistent hygiene measures in everyday operations. Initiatives such as Feuerkrebs e.V. are doing important educational work in this area and are advocating for greater protection of emergency responders. ZIEGLER is responding to this trend by specifically integrating hygiene solutions into vehicle designs and operational procedures.

Innovations in various fields

At INTERSCHUTZ, the company is unveiling a vehicle from a new series. This vehicle is specially designed to help fire departments, among other things, to consistently separate clean and contaminated areas and carry out initial decontamination measures right at the scene of the incident. Depending on the model, the vehicles in this series can be customized to meet specific needs and also support emergency responders in areas such as logistics, incident command and firefighting.

New Z-X series – a versatile platform for modern operational requirements

The new Z-X series represents a flexible, cost-effective concept in the field of logistics vehicles: it was specifically designed to combine a wide range of operational requirements into a single system. Smaller municipalities and volunteer fire departments in particular often face the challenge of covering multiple areas of responsibility with limited budgets. This is where the Z-X comes in, by bundling multiple functions into a single vehicle, thereby eliminating the need to purchase several specialized units. The “X” stands for the versatility of the new series.

With the Z-X logistics vehicle (Z-X GW), ZIEGLER introduces a vehicle concept that combines a logistic vehicle with equipment compartments and cargo space with a crew cabin (Z-Cab) on an IVECO Daily chassis. This design is unique in this combination to date.

The integrated Z-Cab offers a wide range of configuration options. Depending on operational requirements, it can be equipped with, among other things, compressed-air breathing apparatus, forward-facing seats, an action tower or radio workstations. This allows the vehicle to be individually adapted to different operational scenarios.

Flexible interior design for versatile use

A key feature of the Z-X is its versatile cargo area. A sliding partition allows the space to be divided into two separate areas. An integrated door ensures access at all times.
When the partition is not needed, it can be folded up into the ceiling. This makes the entire cargo area available as a single, open space. This design allows for exceptionally versatile use – depending on the situation and requirements.

Focus on operational hygiene and decontamination

A key application scenario for the Z-X GW Hygiene is to support on-site hygiene. After firefighting operations, emergency responders are often exposed to hazardous substances, such as soot particles or contaminated equipment.
With the appropriate equipment, the Z-X GW can be used as a hygiene vehicle. It enables emergency responders to be provided with clean clothing directly at the scene and to carry out initial decontamination measures.
In this way, the vehicle helps reduce the intake of harmful substances and sustainably improves the protection of emergency personnel.

Wide range of applications thanks to modular roll containers

Thanks to the use of modular roll containers, the Z-X can be quickly and easily configured for a variety of tasks. In addition to its use in the hygiene sector, the following application scenarios are possible, among others:

• Logistics vehicle (GW-L1) in accordance with DIN
• Logistics portable pump vehicle (TSF-L)
• Mobile respiratory protection workshop for testing and restoring the operational readiness of compressed-air breathing apparatus
• Catering vehicle for emergency personnel
• Communication and briefing room for incident commanders
• Information vehicle for events and public relations

The conversion can be completed quickly by one or two people. This ensures that the vehicle remains versatile and ready for use at all times.

Cost-effective solution for municipalities

Smaller municipalities and local fire departments, in particular, often face the challenge of covering multiple areas of operation with limited financial resources.
The Z-X offers a cost-effective solution: instead of purchasing multiple specialized vehicles, different functions can be combined into a single vehicle. Customization is achieved using roll-on/roll-off containers rather than purchasing additional vehicles.

Platform for additional applications

The vehicle design is intentionally open to further applications. In addition to traditional firefighting and disaster response operations, the Z-X can also be used as a platform for drone and robotics systems.
In addition, potential applications include use by police, customs, or border patrol agencies. The concept also offers significant potential for public transportation agencies—for example, for inspecting infrastructure—as well as for defense-related applications

Concept cabin Hygiene

With the concept cabin Hygiene, ZIEGLER presents an innovative design for the crew cabin of tomorrow. The focus is on a holistic approach that combines hygiene, ergonomics and durability. This is a prospective study. The cabin is designed from the ground up for easy cleaning – thanks to reduced edges and undercuts, optimized material selection and foldable and removable components such as seats.
The concept is complemented by a clear black-and-white separation, an integrated noise-canceling and individual communication system by Recalm for noise reduction and an optimized fresh air supply.
With the Z-Harness – a combination of a respirator mount, harness and supportive exoskeleton – as well as variable interior solutions such as the Actiontower, ZIEGLER is setting new standards for safety, comfort and efficiency in the field.