What should be avoided when using chemical protective clothing?

Static Electricity

Static electricity can occur under certain environmental conditions, such as dry and cold climates. Protective clothing may generate and release static charges, which are generally not hazardous unless the spark could ignite flammable gases or interfere with the wearer. When working in environments where flammable substances are present, it's crucial to implement preventive measures to reduce the risk of electrostatic discharge. Recommended steps include: regularly watering the work area, using antistatic treatments on both the inside and outside of protective gear, wearing grounding straps for personnel and equipment, and ensuring that the clothing is properly grounded before entering high-risk areas. However, even with these precautions, there remains a potential risk of uncontrolled fire or explosion in highly volatile environments, which could lead to severe injuries.

Avoid Exothermic Reactions

Certain chemicals react violently with water, producing large amounts of heat. If protective clothing becomes contaminated with such substances, it could be damaged during decontamination due to the heat generated. To prevent this, it's important to first remove the chemicals using dry absorbents or non-reactive materials before proceeding with any cleaning process.

Avoid Continuous Exposure

This protective suit is not designed for use in chemical environments without proper protection. It should not be exposed to dangerous chemical sprays or showers. Avoid wearing it in pools containing hazardous chemicals. Always try to minimize direct contact between the protective clothing and harmful substances. If the clothing gets directly sprayed or washed with hazardous chemicals, leave the area immediately and begin decontamination procedures.

Avoid Suffocation

Do not wear fully enclosed protective gear without a fresh air supply, whether it’s Grade A or B. Use full-face respiratory equipment, such as open-circuit self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) or an external air hose system with an emergency cylinder. Closed-circuit respirators may increase oxygen levels inside the suit, depending on the type of device, the user’s activity level, and the nature of the task. Air-purifying respirators (APR) should not be used in fully enclosed protective suits, nor with masks that extend to the clavicle. Similarly, active air filter respirators (PAPR) should not be worn with closed protective clothing, unless the air intake is uncontaminated and sufficient.

Use of External Air Tubes

If connecting to an external air hose, ensure that the protective clothing has a compatible NIOSH-approved interface. The connection should not be fixed or permanent, as pulling it forcefully may cause irreversible damage to the garment.

Never Use Pure Oxygen

Using 100% oxygen in chemical protective gear poses serious fire and health risks. Only compressed air or external air hoses should be used for breathing. In totally enclosed protective systems, oxygen levels inside the respirator depend on the type of device, the user’s activity level, and the duration of use.

Socks

Protective socks are meant to be worn inside the outer protective boots. They typically lack the durability and slip resistance needed for use as standalone footwear.

Provide Hearing Protection

If noise levels inside the suit exceed safe limits, hearing protection must be provided. Use devices recommended by safety professionals and ensure they do not interfere with the use of protective clothing.

Communication

Chemical protective clothing can limit communication. Consider using personal communication systems, especially when wearing respirators. During training, work, or emergencies, hand signals can also be useful for conveying messages while wearing protective gear.

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