How Seam Seal Tape Is Used In Hazmat Environmentsprotection Levels Of Hazmat Suits

Hazmat suits are garments worn for protection from hazardous materials or other substances that could otherwise injure the wearer. These devices are typically designed to eliminate foreign contaminants using a closed breathing apparatus similar to those used by firefighters, along with seam sealing tape along the seams of waterproof materials.

While hazmat suits share similar design and function, the variety in designs, materials and accessories means that some suits or garments are not appropriate for every type of hazardous material exposure or situation. With even subtle difference, it became necessary to classify the suits and garments into four different levels, making it easy to identify which suit is appropriate given the contaminant or response needed. These classifications in the United States are Level A, B, C and D.

Level A Hazmat Protection - Level A is considered to be the highest level of protection among hazmat suits. With a fully enclosed suit and self-contained breathing apparatus, the wearer is completely protected from most chemical splashes and spills, mists, vapors, gases and particles. In order to fully qualify for Level A protection, the wearer must also utilize a two-way radio system within the air-tight suit.

Level B Hazmat Protection - Level B protection offers significantly less protection than Level A due to the fact that the breathing apparatus in Level B designs is fixed on the exterior of the garment. Because of this, Level B garments and suits are only able to protect against chemical splash and liquids, offering protection with waterproof treated textiles and seam sealing tape. Open areas such as cuffs, ankles and at the neckline require manual sealing by other means in conjunction with gloves, hoods and boots.

Level C Hazmat Protection - Level C protection and Level B protection are functionally similar in how garments are design, effectively preventing the pass-through of liquid chemicals and particles. The difference lies in the breathing apparatus. While a Level B requires an SCBA, a Level C classification allows for other respirator devices such as air-purifying respirators. The downside to this type of protection is that the wearer is not protected in oxygen-starved environments such as a room or area where oxygen has been displaced by other gases and vapors.

Level D Hazmat Protection - Level D hazmat suits offer the poorest form of protection but are commonly used in most environments where there is a hazardous presence, but it poses limited to no risk to the wearer. This type of garment is typically coveralls, boots, gloves and lower body gear that is waterproofed with seam sealing tape and other protection. A good example is firefighter turnout gear.