According to the EPA classification system, what is the level of protection afforded a suit that fully encapsulates the wearer and SCBA?

• A. Level A
• B. Level B
• C. Level C
• D. Level D

Answer: (A)

When you need maximum protection from unknown or highly toxic hazards, you want a setup that keeps any chemical away from both skin and lungs. A suit that fully encapsulates the wearer and integrates a supplied-air respirator (SCBA) provides a sealed barrier around the body and a continuous air supply, so contaminants cannot contact the skin or be inhaled. That combination represents the highest level of protection in the EPA PPE classification, used when hazards are unknown or extremely dangerous. The other levels reduce protection or rely on different respiratory systems, which aren’t sufficient for unknown or highly toxic exposures. So the correct choice is the highest protection configuration: a fully encapsulating suit with SCBA.