Basic Level Pre-Course Reading

Chapter 4
Personal Protection
4.5.2 Equipment generally used by NATO Groups
The two-piece suit, generally used by NATO groups, consists of pants and
a hooded jacket. This protective equipment differs from the CF-NBCW in
that it adsorbs liquids into the suit using a wicking action. The suit is used
when the concentration(s) and type(s) of airborne substance(s) is (are)
known and the criteria for using air purifying respirators are met (respirator
with approved CBRN canister). The oxygen content of the atmosphere must
be normal.
Other improvised protective
measures such as wearing TyvekTM
coveralls over bunker gear may afford
additional protection. Depending on
the agent used, bunker gear
supplemented by taping and
TyvekTM coveralls may allow
responders to complete immediate
action procedures such as
establishing perimeters and
evacuating immediate hazard areas
until technicians/specialists arrive with
enhanced protective equipment.
Determining the right PPE to use,
especially respiratory protective
equipment, is a critical task and is
part of the initial scene evaluation and
risk assessment. The choice made
will determine the success or failure
of the rescue and the continued
effectiveness of responder crews.
Personnel without PPE or without the
correct PPE must stay outside
cordoned off areas.
Figure 6 Two-piece CBRN
Personal Protective Equipment
with C4 Respirator and FR64
NIOSH-Approved Canister
CBRN First Responder Training Program
39
Basic Level Course