Many jobs use personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect workers from harmful substances and other dangers. Many people associate PPE with hazmat suits, but it’s important to note the differences between hazmat and other kinds of PPE, like the outfits firefighters wear. Keep reading to learn the difference between turnout gear and hazmat suits.
What Is Turnout Gear?
Turnout gear, or bunker gear, is the PPE that firefighters wear. It includes trousers, a jacket, boots, gloves, and a helmet made to certain specifications. For example, the trousers and jacket must contain three specialized layers that protect a firefighter from cuts, splashes, flames, and extreme heat.
What Is a Hazmat Suit?
A hazmat suit is a type of PPE designed for protection against hazardous materials—hence the name. What to include in your hazmat suit ensemble depends on the kinds of hazardous materials you expect to encounter. For example, the highest level of protection requires an airtight suit and no gapping between the suit and your gloves. The lowest level requires only safety goggles and work overalls.
Why Turnout Gear Isn’t the Same as a Hazmat Suit
While hazmat suits and turnout gear are both types of PPE, turnout gear only qualifies as the lowest level of hazmat protection, or level D. This is because turnout gear is designed to protect firefighters against the unique dangers of their profession. Hazmat suits might protect against gases and chemical splashes, but they don’t do anything to protect against fire.
What They Have In Common
Both hazmat suits and firefighting gear have some things in common. Both types of PPE include wearing boots and work gloves, as well as face and head protection. However, it’s important to note that firefighting gear is made from very specific materials, and even the helmet is a certain shape. Firefighters wear a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) when entering buildings, which some levels of hazmat also use.
The main difference between turnout gear and hazmat suits is what they’re designed to protect you from. Turnout gear prioritizes protection from heat, falling debris, sharp objects, and fire, while hazmat suits are more about chemical dangers.