WHAT ARE THE 6 TYPES OF CHEMICAL PROTECTIVE CLOTHING?
There are six basic types of protective clothing against chemical and microbiological hazards:
- gas-tight
- air-fed non-gas-tight suits,
- suits against pressurized liquids
- suits against sprayed liquids
- suits against solid particles
- suits offering limited protective performance against liquid …
Furthermore, several subtypes exist. Within each type, the efficacy against different chemicals, microbes, and mechanical strength varies depending on the structure of the clothing and material properties. Clothing types 3, 4, and 6 may cover the user’s body only partially. This article provides information about the selection, use, and maintenance of protective clothing against chemical and microbiological hazards.
1. gas-tight
Type 1 CPCs, gas-tight suits, are divided into several sub-types. Type 1a has a breathable air supply inside the chemical protective suit. The air supply can be e.g. self-contained open-circuit compressed air breathing apparatus. In type 1b the breathable air supply is worn outside the CPC. In type 1c, a positive pressure of breathable air can be provided via airlines. Types 1a-ET and 1b-ET are meant for emergency teams. Type 1 CPC may be needed for example against dimethyl sulfate, ammonia, chlorine, cyanogen chloride, hydrogen cyanide, sulfur mustard, or Sarin.
2. air-fed non-gas-tight suits
Type 2 CPC is not gas-tight and a positive pressure of breathable air is provided into the suit e.g. via airlines. The suits can be used against aerosols, sprays, or gases, for instance in the manufacture of drugs or other hazardous materials, if the task requires that the employee stands still.
3. suits against pressurized liquids
Type 3 CPC (and PB) has liquid-tight connections between different parts of the clothing. The CPC can be used in tasks where the contaminants are not air-borne, chemicals may splash under pressure, or the workspace is confined and the employee has to lean on contaminated surfaces. The type 3 CPC is not tested for leakage of a gas or particles, but it is tested for leaks by compressed jets of water. The materials can be the same as those used in type 1 or 2 CPC.
4. suits against sprayed liquids
Type 4 CPC (and PB) has spray-tight connections between different parts of the clothing. The CPC can be used in tasks where the contaminants are not airborne, there is a risk of small splashes of chemicals, and the workspace is not confined. The type 4 CPC is tested by spraying it with water. The materials can be the same as for the type 5, but the seams are taped.
5. suits against solid particles
Type 5 CPC is intended for use against air-borne solid particles. It is often used to lessen respiratory exposure such as those encountered in asbestos work and other tasks with hazardous dusts. The leak tightness of the suit is evaluated through two criteria.
One special test is for the total inward leakage (TIL), i.e. the overall mean penetration through the suit while worn by test persons in a sodium chloride aerosol atmosphere. The TIL can be used as a laboratory-based efficacy measure for the CPC. For the type 5 CPC the TIL has to be less than 15% for 8 test persons out of 10. This is a factor to be seriously considered while selecting type 5 clothing against hazardous chemicals.
6. suits offering limited protective performance against liquid
Type 6 CPC (and PB) is meant for tasks where limited protection against liquid chemicals is needed. The overall efficacy of the clothing is tested with a similar spray test as used in type 4 CPC but with only 10% of the liquid load. The material efficacy against chemicals is measured in percentages, while types 1–4 are classified in units of micrograms per square centimeters. The Type 6 CPC should be only used against small and rare splashes of irritant substances.
When Do You Need Chemical Protective Clothing?
Chemical-resistant equipment is required when the chemicals presented in the workplace are:
- Irritant
- Corrosive
- Allergic sensitizers
- Photosensitizers
- Skin carcinogens
- Pose a percutaneous risk
- Pose a biological risk
What are examples of chemical protective clothing?
- Protective Suit (Fully Encapsulating, Splash Suit)
- Respiratory Protection (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus, Respirator)
- Head Protection (Helmet)
- Hearing Protection (Ear Plugs)
- Eye Protection (Safety Goggles / Face Shield)
- Gloves (Inner and Outer)
- Boots Level A Fully Encapsulating Suit.
What materials are used for chemical protective clothing?
What is the best acid-resistant material?
- Polypropylene
- PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene)
- PEEK (polyetheretherketone)
- ECTFE (ethylene chlorotrifluoroethylene)
- PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride)
1. Polyester:
has excellent resistance to most substances. It is resistant to acids, and oxidizers such as hydrogen peroxide and most solvents.
Polyester is a synthetic fabric known for its durability and resistance to acid. It is constructed from a mix of chemicals and fibers, which offers it resistance to severe chemicals and acids. Polyester is often used in industrial environments where exposure to acids is widespread, such as chemical factories and labs.
2. Nylon:
Nylon is a synthetic material renowned for its durability and sturdiness. It is also acid-resistant, making it a popular option in sectors such as chemical processing, oil & gas, and pharmaceuticals. Nylon is composed of ingredients derived from petroleum and can endure high temperatures, making it perfect for usage in severe conditions.
3. Dust Collection:
Dust collection is one type of acid-proof fabric and is an important component of ensuring a safe and healthy work environment in companies that deal with hazardous products. The collection of dust particles may not only harm equipment but also constitute a significant health danger to employees if they are breathed. Thus, it is crucial to pick the proper fabric for dust collection.
Polyester is a fabric that is best for dust collecting. It has good resistance to acids and alkalis, making it perfect for use in situations containing chemicals. Polyester textiles have a strong tensile strength and can resist high temperatures without deteriorating or melting. These characteristics make them a good option for industries such as cement manufacturing, mining, and chemical processing.
4. Polypropylene:
is another type of acid-proof fabric that is known for its acid resistance. Because of its good chemical resistance, high melting point, and low moisture absorption rate, this thermoplastic polymer is employed extensively in a variety of industries. Polypropylene textiles are often used in chemical processing facilities, labs, and other industrial environments where contact to acids and other corrosive compounds is widespread.
Fabrics made from polypropylene are lightweight, long-lasting, and simple to maintain. They can endure exposure to a broad variety of acids and alkalis without degrading or losing strength. In addition, polypropylene textiles are resistant to abrasion, ripping, and puncturing, making them suitable for usage in hostile conditions.
5. Kevlar:
is a synthetic fiber that has remarkable strength and durability. Kevlar is also extremely resistant to acids, making it an appropriate material for use in areas where acid exposure poses a risk.
Kevlar’s polymer chains are less prone to degrade when exposed to acids. In addition, Kevlar’s high melting point enables it to tolerate high temperatures without degrading or losing strength.
What are the standards for chemical protective clothing?
