ABSTRACT
The ultimate purpose of personal protective equipment (PPE) is to shield responders from the chemical, biological, and physical hazards that may
be encountered during operations involving hazardous materials. For any given situation, equipment and clothing can be selected that provide an adequate level of protection (Figure 9.1). It is important that users of PPE appreciate that no single combination of protective equipment and clothing is capable of protecting against all hazards; therefore, PPE should be used in combination with other protective methods. For example, engineering controls (ventilation, barrier emplacement, etc.) to limit chemical contact with personnel should be employed as additional measures for preventing exposure.
