PPE Flashcards
What are the four levels of PPE, and what does each provide protection against?
Level A: Full encapsulation with SCBA. Protects against vapors, gases, mists, and particles. Used in IDLH atmospheres.
Level B: Splash protection with SCBA. Protects against chemical splashes and vapors but not vapors on the skin.
Level C: APR/PAPR with skin protection. Used when contaminants are present, but atmospheric oxygen is sufficient (≥ 19.5%).
Level D: Standard work uniform. Provides no respiratory or skin protection. Used for non-hazardous environments.
What is the primary purpose of Level A PPE?
To provide the highest level of respiratory, skin, and eye protection in IDLH atmospheres with unknown hazards.
When should Level B PPE be used instead of Level A?
When the primary concern is respiratory protection from vapors, but skin exposure is not a significant threat.
What respiratory protection is required for Level C PPE?
Air-Purifying Respirator (APR) or Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR).
What are the three main suit types mentioned, and when are they used?
HPS (High-Performance Suits): For general chemical protection.
VPS (Vapor-Protective Suits): For environments with toxic vapors.
VPS Flash: For flash fire protection in addition to vapor hazards.
What is ‘breakthrough time,’ and why is it important?
The time it takes for a hazardous substance to permeate through the suit material. It is critical for determining how long PPE can be safely used in a specific environment.
What does SCBA stand for, and when is it required?
Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus. Required in IDLH atmospheres, oxygen-deficient environments, and unknown hazards.
What is the minimum oxygen level required for APRs or PAPRs to be used?
19.5%.
What are the key elements of the Level A Entry Checklist?
Inspection of the suit for defects.
Ensuring proper sealing of gloves, boots, and zippers.
Confirming SCBA functionality and air levels.
Checking suit compatibility with the hazard.
What are the attendant’s responsibilities during PPE donning and doffing?
Ensuring the responder dons PPE correctly.
Monitoring for suit breaches or malfunctions.
Assisting in decontamination and safe removal of PPE to avoid contamination.
What does the acronym IDLH stand for, and how does it relate to PPE selection?
Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health. PPE selection must ensure complete protection in IDLH environments, typically requiring Level A or B PPE.
How do you test for suit integrity before donning Level A PPE?
Conduct a pressure test or visual inspection to ensure there are no leaks or defects in the material.
What type of gloves should be used with Level A PPE?
Chemically resistant gloves that are compatible with the specific hazard.
What are the key components of a properly selected PPE ensemble?
Respiratory protection (SCBA, APR, or PAPR).
Dermal protection (Level A, B, or C suit).
Compatible gloves and boots.
What are the temperature limitations for SCBA operation?
SCBA must function within the range specified by the manufacturer, typically -25°F to 120°F, but always check the specific SCBA model.
What are the hazards of improperly doffing contaminated PPE?
Cross-contamination and exposure to hazardous substances that may have adhered to the PPE.
What materials are commonly used for chemical suits to provide vapor protection?
Butyl rubber, Tychem®, and Viton®.
What should be done if a suit breach occurs during an incident?
Exit the hot zone immediately and undergo decontamination to prevent exposure to the hazardous substance.
How is the compatibility of PPE with a specific hazard determined?
By referencing compatibility charts and consulting the manufacturer’s guidelines on chemical resistance and breakthrough times.
What is the purpose of SCBA’s positive-pressure system?
To prevent contaminants from entering the mask by maintaining a higher pressure inside the mask than the surrounding environment.
How often should PPE and respiratory protection be inspected?
Before and after every use, and during regular scheduled maintenance checks.
Why is it essential to select the correct boots for hazardous material response?
Boots must be resistant to the chemicals present and provide adequate protection against punctures, abrasion, and slips.
What does the term ‘vapor-tight’ mean, and which PPE level requires it?
Vapor-tight means the suit is sealed to prevent vapor infiltration. Required for Level A PPE.
What is the primary function of a PAPR?
To filter airborne contaminants while providing powered airflow for comfort in non-IDLH environments.
What factors affect PPE selection at an incident scene?
Type of hazard (chemical, biological, radiological).
Environmental conditions (temperature, humidity).
Availability of decontamination.
