ABSTRACT
The term personal protective equipment (PPE) refers to clothing and respiratory apparatus designed to shield an individual from chemical, biological, and physical hazards. This chapter includes a description of the types of PPE that address the needs of emergency workers, healthcare providers, and potential victims of terrorist attacks. It notes the general lack of access of many healthcare providers and potential victims to any kind of PPE. Finally, the chapter discusses recently completed, ongoing, and planned research and development programs focused on PPE appropriate for response to terrorist attacks.
