Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
substances can enter the oral and respiratory tracts
or penetrate through the skin, depending upon
the specific agent. The Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) defines four levels of personal
protection, designated levels A, B, C, and D. These
are detailed in [10] (see Figure 7.10).
not generally indicated for frontline healthcare
workers (ECRI, 2002).
Level B
consists of a splash protective chemical
suit (e.g., Saranex
®
), and a positive pressure
supplied respirator (airline or self-contained).
Level B is recommended if the agent concen-
trations or agents are unknown. The military
Mission Oriented Protective Posture (MOPP)
suit is a modified level B (ECRI, 2002).
Level C
protection utilizes full- or half-face
purifying respirator
Level A
consists of complete encapsulation against
gas, vapors, liquids, and aerosols. It consists
of a self-contained breathing apparatus and can
be used in oxygen deficient atmospheres. It is
(Powered Air Purifying
EPA LEVELS OF PROTECTION
LEVEL A:
Vapor protective suit (meets NFPA 1991)
Pressure-demand, full-face SCBA
Inner chemical-resistant gloves, chemical-resistant safety boots, two-way radio communication
OPTIONAL: Cooling system, outer gloves, hard hat
Protection Provided: Highest available level of respiratory, skin, and eye protection from solid, liquid and gaseous
chemicals.
Used When: The chemical(s) have been identified and have high level of hazards to respiratory system, skin
and eyes. Substances are present with known or suspected skin toxicity or carcinogenity. Operations must be
conducted in confined or poorly ventilated areas.
Limitations: Protective clothing must resist permeation by the chemical or mixtures present. Ensemble items must
allow integration without loss of performance.
LEVEL B:
Liquid splash-protective suit (meets NFPA 1992)
Pressure-demand, full-facepiece SCBA
Inner chemical-resistant gloves, chemical-resistant safety boots, two-way radio communications
Hard hat.
OPTIONAL: Cooling system, outer gloves
Protection Provided: Provides same level of respiratory protection as Level A, but less skin protection. Liquid splash
protection, but no protection against chemical vapors or gases.
Used When: The chemical(s) have been identified but do not require a high level of skin protection. Initial site
surveys are required until higher levels of hazards are identified. The primary hazards associated with site entry
are from liquid and not vapor contact.
Limitations: Protective clothing items must resist penetration by the chemicals or mixtures present. Ensemble items
must allow integration without loss of performance.
Figure 7.10
OSHA Recommended PPE Levels. (From OSHA.)
