* Structural firefighting gear is designed to protect firefighters from heat and flame.

Hazardous materials can contaminate protective clothing, respiratory equipment, tools, vehicles, and other equipment used at an emergency scene.

First responders should avoid leaks, spills, and obvious sources of hazards, as well as indirect contact with potentially contaminated areas. Full firefighting gear and SCBA will be used at all times as a minimum of protection against exposure. Safe work practices WILL MINIMIZE exposure and contamination.

* The use of chemical protective clothing and equipment requires specific skills acquired through training.

This type of special clothing may only protect against one chemical, yet be readily penetrated by other chemicals for which it was not designed. It offers little or no thermal protection in case of fire. No one suit offers protection from all hazardous materials.

* The level of special protection required in each zone at an incident will be determined by the Officer in charge of the Hazardous Materials Group based on information available.

* The levels of protection available include:

A. Level A - highest level of protection to the responder.
B. Level B - high level of protection to the respiratory tract but a lower level of skin protection than level A.
Level A and B protective equipment is only available for use by members of the Hazardous Materials Unit.
C. Level C - does not require maximum skin or respiratory protection. This level presupposes that the types of air contaminants have been identified, concentrations measured, and the atmosphere is not oxygen deficient.
D. Level D - provides minimal protection and is used to guard against nuisance contamination only.