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10 . 6 Levels of Protection + <br /> 10 . 6 . 1 Introduction <br /> Personnel must wear protective equipment when hazardous waste site <br /> activities involve known or suspected atmospheric contamination; <br /> when vapors, gases or particulates may be generated by site <br /> activities; or when direct contact with substances that affect the <br /> skin may occur. Full-face respirators protect the lungs, the <br /> gastrointestinal tract, and the eyes from airborne toxicants . <br /> Chemical-resistant clothing protects the skin from contact with <br /> skin-destructive chemicals and chemicals that can be absorbed <br /> through the skin. Good personal hygiene limits or prevents <br /> ingestion of material. <br /> Personal protective equipment is divided into four levels, <br /> according to the degree of protection afforded: <br /> Level A - Should be worn when the highest level of <br /> respiratory, skin and eye protection is needed. <br /> Level B - Should be worn when the highest level of <br /> respiratory protection and a lower level of skin protection <br /> are needed. <br /> Level C - Should be worn when the criteria for using air- <br /> purifying respirators are met. <br /> Level D - Should be worn only as a work uniform and not on <br /> any site with respiratory or skin hazards . It provides no <br /> protection against chemical hazards. <br /> The Level of Protection selected should be based on the following: <br /> - Type and measured concentration of the chemical substance in <br /> the ambient atmosphere and its toxicity. <br /> Potential for personnel exposure to substances in air, <br /> splashes of liquids, or other direct contact with material <br /> due to work being done. <br /> In situations where the type of chemical, its concentration, and <br /> the possibilities of contact are unknown, the appropriate Level of <br /> Protection must be selected based on professional experience and <br /> judgement until the hazards can be better identified. <br /> While personal protective equipment (PPE) reduces the potential <br /> for contact with toxic substances, ensuring the health and safety <br /> of site personnel requires, in addition, safe work practices, <br /> decontamination, site entry protocols, and other standard safety <br /> 10-8 <br />