What is considered the best level of personal protective equipment (PPE) for respiratory and skin protection?

The best level of personal protective equipment (PPE) for respiratory and skin protection is the level designated as A. This level is specifically designed to offer the highest degree of protection against both hazardous materials in the air and on the skin.

Level A PPE typically includes fully encapsulating suits that are airtight and protect against both vapor and liquid contaminants. The ensemble is equipped with a supplied air respirator or a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) that provides clean air, making it suitable for environments with high levels of toxins or where oxygen levels may be deficient. Having this comprehensive coverage not only safeguards against inhalation hazards but also ensures that the skin is fully protected from direct contact with harmful substances.

While other levels of PPE, such as those designed for less exposure risk, provide adequate protection for various scenarios, they do not combine the same level of respiratory and skin protection offered by Level A. For example, Level B is appropriate when the respiratory hazard is known and mitigatable but does not provide the same full-body protection required in the most dangerous situations, making Level A the preferred choice when maximum safety is necessary.