If you’re working in shipping or trying to get your products shipped, then you need to understand something: there are 450 million tons of hazardous waste each year.
We’re talking about everything from hydrochloric acid to liquid nitrogen. These are materials that can be explosive, toxic, flammable, corrosive, etc. Many of these hazardous materials require special containment in order to work with them. But how can you work with these dangerous materials and stay safe at the same time?
Well, the answer is hazmat suits.
If you want to learn more about different types of hazmat suits, then you’ve come to the right place. We’ll cover that in this short (but detailed) guide. In fact, let’s get started!
Level A
Level A suits offer the highest level of protection and are typically used for responses to chemicals that are highly toxic, corrosive, or volatile. They are encapsulated, meaning they completely enclose the worker in a one-piece suit, gloves, and a self-contained breathing apparatus.
Level B
Level-B hazmat suits provide protection from hazardous material when an airborne contaminant is present, but the type of material is not known, and there is a high potential for exposure. These suits usually feature some combination of an outer garment, an inner garment, gloves, boots, built-in breathing apparatus, etc.
The outer garment may be a hooded, full-body garment with a built-in ventilation system, or it may be a limited-use single-use disposable garment. The inner garment is usually a chemical-resistant suit of clothing. The gloves, boots, and other components of the Level-B hazmat suit provide the highest level of protection against hazardous material.
Level C
A level c Hazmat suit is a full-body protective suit that includes a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). The suit provides protection from chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear agents and provides maximum protection for the user. It is constructed from multiple durable layers made of impermeable material and is designed to keep particulates and toxic matter from permeating the suit.
Level D
A Level D suit is the most basic protection available and covers the entire body except the face, hands, and feet. This type of suit is made from tear-resistant synthetic materials and offers minimal protection against hazardous materials. It is designed to provide limited protection in non-toxic and chemical environments, as well as being splash-proof and puncture-resistant.
However, proponents of Level D suits suggest that they are suitable for general industrial use, such as protection against fumes, dust, or nuisance chemical exposure. The ease of wearing and disposing of Level D suits makes them an affordable option for many users.
Despite its limitations, this basic form of hazmat suit can be effective in providing a level of protection for users in low-risk environments. Learn more about these suits by joining the online ELDT hazmat training course.
PBAP: Pressurized Breathing Apparatus with Protection
PBAP Pressurized Breathing Apparatus with Protection is a type of hazmat suit designed to provide maximum safety to hazardous material handlers. This particular type of suit is designed to protect against chemical and biological agents and is generally composed of rubber or plastic material.
Learning The Types of Hazmat Suits
Hazmat suits are essential in protecting workers from hazardous substances and environments. Used properly, they ensure workers remain safe while still getting the job done. If you need to work in a hazardous environment, find the right suit for the job and be sure to wear it properly. Be safe – stay prepared!
Interested in learning more aside from these types of hazmat suits? Check out our blog for more information.