HAZWOPER rules (29 CFR 1910.120 Appendix) delineate four levels of PPE required to protect workers under various site conditions. Here's what you need to know.
Level A
Should be worn when the highest level of respiratory, skin, and eye protection is needed (i.e., for use with highly toxic releases, such as chlorine or ammonia). Level A protection includes:
- Fully encapsulated chemical-resistant suits
- Positive-pressure SCBA or positive-pressure supplied air respirator with escape SCBA
- Double layer of chemical-resistant gloves
- Airtight seals between suit and gloves and boots
Level B
Should be worn when the highest level of respiratory protection is needed, but a lesser degree of skin protection is needed (i.e., protects against splash hazards posed by acids or caustics). Level B protection includes:
- Positive-pressure SCBA or positive-pressure supplied air respirator with escape SCBA (NIOSH approved)
- Chemical-resistant clothing
- Double layer of chemical-resistant gloves
- Chemical-resistant boots, with steel toe and shank
Level C
Should be worn when the next highest level of respiratory protection is needed after Level B. Skin protection criteria are similar to Level B (i.e., protects against contaminants, such as asbestos and lead). Level C protection includes:
- Full-face or half-mask air purification respirator (NIOSH approved)
- Chemical-resistant clothing
- Double layer of chemical-resistant gloves
- Chemical-resistant boots, with steel toe and shank
- Eye protection if half-face respirator is worn
Level D
Should be worn only as a work uniform and not at any site with respiratory hazards. Provides no protection against chemical hazards. Level D protection includes essentially common work clothes, such as safety goggles, safety gloves, and protective shoes.
No comments:
Post a Comment