Warranty Information

It is the responsibility of the user to select garments which are appropriate for each intended use and which meet all specified government and industry standards.

Lakeland chemical protective garments are designed for limited use. It is the responsibility of the wearer to inspect garments periodically to ensure that all components, including fabric, valves, visors, gloves, zippers, seams, and interfaces are in good working condition, and provide adequate protection for the operation and chemicals to be encountered. Failure to fully inspect garments may result in serious injury or death to the wearer. Never wear garments that have not been fully inspected and pressure tested prior to use. Any garment which does not pass inspection should be removed from service immediately.

No expressed or implied warranties of fitness for a particular purpose or of merchantability or otherwise is made. Purchaser and all garment users shall promptly notify Lakeland Industries, Inc. of any claim, whether based on contract, negligence, strict liability or otherwise.

The sole and exclusive remedy of the purchaser and all end users and the limit of liability of  Lakeland Industries, Inc. for any and all losses, injuries or damages shall be the refund of the purchase price or the replacement or repair of any product found to be defective within 90 days after the product is delivered. In no event shall  Lakeland Industries, Inc.  be liable for any special, incidental or consequential damages, whether in contract of in tort, arising out of any warranties, representations, instructions, or defects from any cause in connection with the garment, or the sale thereof.

Purchaser and all users are responsible for inspection and proper care of this product as described in this care and use manual and are responsible for all loss or damages from use or handling which results from conditions beyond the control of the manufacturer.

Product safety information is available upon request. This information corresponds to our current knowledge on the subject. It is offered solely to provide possible suggestions for your own experimentations. It is not intended, however, to substitute for any testing you may need to conduct to determine for yourself the suitability of our products for your particular purposes. It is the user’s responsibility to determine the level of risk and the proper protective equipment needed for the user’s particular purposes. This information may be subject to revision as new knowledge and experience becomes available. Since we cannot anticipate all variations in actual end-use conditions, LAKELAND INDUSTRIES, INC. MAKES NO WARRANTIES AND ASSUMES NO LIABILITY IN CONNECTION WITH ANY USE OF THIS INFORMATION. Nothing in this publication is to be considered as a license to operate under or a recommendation to infringe any patent right

© Copyright 2004 Lakeland Industries, Inc. All rights reserved.

Warnings and Limitations

This ensemble is not suitable for use in all situations and environments with all chemical and hazardous materials. All decisions regarding the choice and usage of chemical protective clothing must be done by trained and qualified safety professionals. It is the user’s responsibility to determine the level of exposure and the proper personal protective equipment needed.

Lakeland chemical protective ensembles that are certified to NFPA 1991 require an over-cover. The protective over-cover provides additional protection against abrasion, cut, tear or puncture, and direct flame impingement. (All NFPA compliant Tychem® ensembles utilize specific, multiple glove combinations and specific boots. All components of the specified ensemble must be worn to be compliant with the requirements of this standard.)

Lakeland chemical protective garments will burn. These garments should not be worn around heat, open flames, sparks or any other possible ignition source nor in potentially explosive or flammable environments.

If the Lakeland chemical protective garment is abraded, cut, torn, punctured or otherwise and in any way breached, do not use. The chemical protective garment material has finite resistance to abrasion, cut, tear and puncture.

If the Lakeland chemical protective garment is damaged during use, retreat immediately to a safe environment, thoroughly decontaminate the garment, then dispose of it in a safe manner.

Limitations of Use

This ensemble is not intended for protection against radiological hazards.

This ensemble is not intended for protection from cryogenic liquids and gases (colder than -200° C). If there is a risk of exposure to liquefied gases warmer than -100° C, the use of an ensemble certified to the optional liquefied gas requirements of NFPA 1991 (2000 edition) should be considered. Note: It may be essential to protect the wearer from thermal transfer-related physical harm, such as frostbite, by providing the wearer with insulating undergarments.

If the danger of exposure to biological aerosols or chemical warfare chemicals exists, the use of a protective ensemble certified to the optional Chemical and Biological Terrorism requirements of NFPA 1991 (2000 Edition) or garments certified to Class 1 or Class 3 of NFPA 1994 should be considered. Each of these standards provides different levels of performance.

Chemical Permeation Data

Before using a protective ensemble in a chemical situation, consult the chemical permeation data appropriate to the garment material. Note that seams, visors and closures will generally have lower or different permeation times than the garments’ material. This information is to be used as a guide only. The permeation performance of any material depends on a number of factors including chemical concentration, temperature, time and amount of exposure. Due to the large number of variables, it is impossible for all ensemble materials to be tested against all chemicals, all combinations or mixtures, and all temperatures at which the chemical might be encountered.

Chemical permeation tests are performed under laboratory conditions -- not actual workplace conditions. They address chemical breakthrough characteristics and do not account for physical performance characteristics that affect a barrier such as abrasion, flex fatigue, puncture, tear, oxidative degradation, or degraded performance due to previous contamination.

No single protective material will protect against all chemicals for all situations. The best course of action is to test the primary protective garment materials against the specific chemical hazard, at the temperature and in the concentrations to be encountered. Lakeland Industries, Inc. will provide free swatches of primary garment materials for testing and can provide you with a list of testing facilities.

Never Use Pure Oxygen

The use of 100% oxygen in this chemical protective ensemble presents serious fire safety and health hazards. Use only breathing quality, compressed air, air line supplied breathing air, or a rebreather system. Note that some rebreather systems utilize small oxygen cylinders, but these do not create enriched oxygen atmosphere.

Manage and Prevent Heat Stress

This garment interferes with the natural regulation of body temperature. This can lead to a rise in core body temperature and heat stress. The wearer should be aware of the symptoms and treatment of heat stress. The wearer can take several steps to limit and/or prevent heat stress, such as the use of a cooling system, and implementing a conservative work/rest schedule.

The maximum time the ensemble can be worn depends on such variables as the air supply, ambient condition, climate inside the ensemble, physical and psychological condition of the wearer, work rate and work load. The TLVTM pocket guide from the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH, Cincinnati) provides corrected heat stress limits for totally encapsulating garments. Similar information is available on the federal OSHA web site ( www.OSHA.gov) . The WBGT correction factor for chemical protective garments is at least 10° C or higher for totally encapsulating garments.

Wearers Must be Physically Fit

Ensembles should only be worn by persons who are in good physical condition. Working in chemical protective clothing is strenuous. In an emergency situation or hot environment, the wearer may experience heat stress. Persons who show symptoms of heat stress such as nausea, dizziness, high heart rates, or excessive heat build-up should leave the work area immediately and remove the ensemble as quickly as possible after decontamination. Persons in doubt about their physical condition should check with a physician before wearing chemical protective ensembles.

Always Use the Buddy System

Never enter a contaminated area alone. A minimum of two people should enter contaminated areas together. Two additional people, in equally protective garments should be available to affect rescue of the entry team. All persons entering the contaminated area should wear appropriate protective equipment.

Static Electricity

Under certain conditions, such as cold and dry weather, it is possible that garments might build and discharge static electricity. Discharges are not normally dangerous except in situations where the generation of an electrical spark could ignite a flammable atmosphere or startle the wearer. When operating around flammable chemicals, steps to eliminate potential static discharges should be used. In these situations, steps have been recommended such as, but not limited to, water spray, the use of an over-cover, raising humidity level of the work area, use of a commercial, anti-static application coating, grounding straps on equipment and personnel, inherently static-dissipating under- and over-garments, and testing of the worker’s static dissipation before entry into the classified area.

However, in the case of explosive or flammable atmospheres, even if sophisticated and elaborate steps are taken to manage static formation and dissipate static charge, the risk of severe injury remains if an uncontrolled or accidental ignition occurs. Lakeland chemical protective garments should not be worn in potentially flammable or explosive atmospheres.

Sock Booties

The socks attached to chemical protective garments are designed to be worn inside outer boots. These sock boots do not have sufficient durability or slip resistance to be worn as outer boots.

Avoid Exothermic Reactions

Certain chemicals produce a large amount of heat when they react with water. If garments are heavily contaminated with a water-reactive chemical, there is a possibility that the garment may be damaged during field decontamination from the high reactive heat. The excess chemical may have to be removed with dry sand or non-reactive absorbent before water decontamination.

Avoid Continuous Exposure

This ensemble should not be immersed in chemicals. This ensemble should not be exposed to continuous hazardous liquid chemical splash or deluge. Do not wade through liquid pools of hazardous chemicals if it is not necessary. Direct, liquid chemical exposure to the ensemble should be as limited as possible. If exposed to direct splash or a deluge of hazardous chemicals, leave the area immediately and decontaminate.

Supplied Air Line Applications

To connect to an external supplied air-line system, encapsulating garments must be equipped with the appropriate, NIOSH approved garment pass-through. This passthrough connection should not be relied upon as an anchor for a tether. Excess pull on this fitting may result in permanent damage to the garment.

Avoid Suffocation

Do not attempt to wear a totally-encapsulating, chemical protective garment without supplied fresh air. This applies to vapor-protective (Level A) and totallyencapsulating (Level B) garments. Air may be supplied to the wearer by a selfcontained breathing apparatus (SCBA), supplied breathing air line, or rebreather system.

Air-purifying respirators (APR) cannot be worn with totally-encapsulating vapor protective (Level A) or liquid protective (Level B) ensembles.

Air-purifying respirators (APR) cannot be worn under separate protective hoods that extend below the clavicle.

Powered air-purifying respirators (PAPR) cannot be worn with totally encapsulating vapor protective (Level A) or liquid protective (Level B) ensembles. PAPR’s can be worn with ensembles utilizing separate hoods, if the configuration provides adequate ventilation at the intake of the unit and the unit is adequately protected from contamination.

Provide Hearing Protection

If noise levels inside this ensemble exceed regulatory noise levels, hearing protection must be provided. Use hearing protection recommended by a safety professional which does not interfere with the operation or use of the garment.

Communications

A chemical protective garment hampers communication. The use of a personal communication system should be considered. Users should also consider the use of hand signals to communicate during training, work, and for emergency situations where respirators and chemical protective garments are worn.

Positive Pressure

Excessive, internal positive pressure can damage this vapor-protective garments. Do not inflate the vapor-protective garments above a pressure of 7 inches water column.

Safety Considerations

Be sure to read and follow the information in this manual and all applicable federal, state and local occupation safety and health statutes. Serious injury or death may occur from improper use of this garment. Proper use must be consistent with NFPA 1500, Standard on Fire Department Occupational Safety and Health Program, and 29 CFR 1910.132.

This garment is not suitable for use in all situations and environments with all chemical and hazardous materials. All decisions regarding the choice of chemical protective clothing and its use must be made by trained and qualified safety professionals. It is the user’s responsibility to determine the level of exposure and the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) needed. Most performance properties cannot be tested by the users in the field. Refer to the Lakeland Permeation Guide for chemicals specific to your situation.

If any of the following symptoms develop during use of this garment, immediately leave the contaminated area, undergo field decontamination (if exposed), and doff the garment:

• Fever

• Difficulty breathing

• Nausea   

• Excessive Tiredness

• Dizziness

• Numbness

• Any unusual odor or taste

• Eye or skin irritation

• Narrowing or dimming of vision

• Claustrophobia

• Loss of balance or orientation

Wearer Qualifications

This garment should be worn only by persons who are properly trained in the usage of this garment and who are in good physical condition to perform tasks involving the use of this garment. Consult a physician before donning a suit to ensure you are capable of wearing this garment under the expected work conditions and environment.

Additional Equipment

To help protect the wearer and to perform as intended, this chemical protective garment must be worn with several additional items of personal protective equipment (PPE). At a minimum the following components must be worn with the enclosed chemical protective garment:

NFPA Compliant Garments (NFPA 1991 and NFPA 1994, Class 1; NFPA 1994, Class 3)

• Separate, user-supplied, full-face respiratory protection such as: 1) an open circuit, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) which is also certified as compliant with NFPA 1981 Standard on Open-Circuit Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus for Fire Service, 2) an external breathing air supply (air line system with pass-through and escape bottle) or 3) a closed-circuit, self-contained breathing apparatus (rebreather).
  
  Air-purifying respirators (APR) cannot be worn with totally-encapsulating vapor protective (Level A) or liquid protective (Level B) ensembles nor with NFPA 1994, Class 3 ensembles with separate protective hoods that extend below the clavicle.
  
  Powered air-purifying respirators (PAPR) cannot be worn with totally encapsulating vapor protective (Level A) or liquid protective (Level B) garments. PAPR’s can be worn with NFPA 1994, Class 3 ensembles utilizing separate hoods, if the configuration provides adequate ventilation at the intake of the unit and the unit is adequately protected from contamination.
  
  The next updates to these NFPA standards will most likely require NIOSH certified, CBRNE (chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, explosive) respirators.
   

• NFPA 1991 compliant Lakeland chemical protective ensembles must incorporate a separate over-cover to provide required abrasion resistance, puncture resistance, and protection from direct flame impingement. An overcover should be considered for NFPA 1994, Class 1 and Class 3 garments where there is a risk of abrasion, puncture, cut, tear or flame impingement.
   

• Separate, user-supplied protective footwear specified in the Technical Data Package of this document. NFPA compliant Lakeland chemical protective garments include attached socks made of garment material. These socks must be worn inside the protective footwear. These socks are not suitable as outer footwear.
   

• NFPA compliant Lakeland chemical protective garments are equipped with outer boot covers to prevent liquid pooling inside the boot. After the garment is donned, the boots are donned and the outer cover is pulled down over the upper portion of the boot.
   

• NFPA compliant Lakeland chemical protective garments include attached chemical protective gloves. Separate, cut-resistant outer gloves are required on NFPA 1991 compliant garments. (Additional cut resistant outer gloves are not required for garments compliant with NFPA 1994, Class 1 and Class 3, but should be considered if a high level of cut protection is required.)
  
  NFPA compliant garments utilize multiple chemical resistant gloves to achieve the chemical barrier and physical performance requirements of the standard. All chemical gloves must be present in compliant ensembles. It is the user’s responsibility to verify that the glove will provide adequate barrier and physical performance for the intended task.
   

• User-supplied head protection.

Non-Compliant Garments (Level A and Liquid-Splash Protective)

• Separate, user-supplied, full-face respiratory protection such as: 1) an open circuit, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), 2) an external breathing air supply (air line system with garment pass-through and escape bottle) or 3) a closed-circuit, self-contained breathing apparatus (rebreather).
  
  Air-purifying respirators (APR) cannot be worn with totally-encapsulating vapor protective (Level A) or liquid protective (Level B) ensembles. Air-purifying respirators (APR) can be worn under protective hoods that extend below the clavicle.
  
  Powered air-purifying respirators (PAPR) cannot be worn with totally encapsulating vapor protective (Level A) or liquid protective (Level B) garments. PAPR’s can be worn under separate protective hoods, if the configuration provides adequate ventilation at the intake of the unit and the unit is adequately protected from contamination.
   

• Separate, user-supplied, protective footwear. Many, but not all, Lakeland chemical protective garments have socks made of garment material. These socks must be worn inside the protective footwear. These socks are not suitable as outer footwear.
   

• These garments may also be equipped with outer boot covers to prevent liquid pooling inside the boot. After the garment is donned, the boots are donned and the outer cover is pulled down over the upper portion of the boot.
  
  The cuffs of Lakeland chemical protective garments that do not have socks should be worn over the upper portion of the user’s boot to prevent run-off and pooling of liquid within the boot. Adhesive taping of the garment cuff to the boot does not provide a leakproof seal. Taping should only be used to hold the garment cuff in position over the boot. If a leak-proof seal is required, then garments with sock and boot covers should be selected.
   

• The use of footwear with toe crush protection, cut-resistant, and slip-resistant soles is recommended.
   

• The use of separate cut-resistant gloves may also be considered.
   

• Level A, vapor-protective Lakeland chemical protective garments are provided with attached chemical protective gloves. A separate, outer, cut-resistant glove should be considered if a high level of cut protection is required.
  
  Liquid-protective Lakeland chemical protective garments may or may not be equipped with attached chemical protective gloves. If not attached, user-supplied chemical protective gloves should be worn with the sleeve of the garment over the gauntlet of the glove. Adhesive taping of the glove to sleeve interface does not provide a leakproof seal. Taping should only be used to hold the sleeve in position over the glove gauntlet. If a leak-proof seal between the glove and sleeve is required, then a garment with attached gloves should be selected.
  
  Some Lakeland chemical protective garments utilize multiple chemical-resistant gloves to achieve the chemical barrier and physical performance requirements. Removal of one of the glove layers may compromise chemical barrier or glove durability.
  
  It is the user’s responsibility to verify that the glove and the glove/sleeve interface will provide adequate barrier and physical performance for the intended task.
   

• User-supplied head protection.

Additional personal protective equipment may be required. Consult with a trained and experienced safety professional to determine the additional PPE components required for your specific situation.

• Hearing protection may be required due to high levels of external noise or high noise levels generated by supplied air systems.

• Other protective equipment may be warranted based on the situation to deal with additional hazards which may include, but are not limited to:
  Flammable or Explosive Environment
  Decontamination
  Extreme Heat (Heat Stress)
  Extreme Cold (Hypothermia)
  Asphyxiating Atmosphere
  Physical Hazards (Sharps, Puncture, Rough Surfaces, Falling Debris)
  Slipping or falling
  Visibility - of wearer & by wearer
  Communications

Inspection of Garment

Lakeland Chemical Potective Garment Inspection

Lakeland chemical protective garments should be inspected at the following times:

1. Upon receipt from manufacturer (To ensure no damage occurred during shipping.)

2. After the garment is worn and before the garment is worn again. Contaminated or damaged garments should not be re-used.

3. Annually.

Garment inspection is important. It ensures that the integrity of the garment has been maintained. The first inspection should be performed upon receipt to ensure that the integrity was not compromised during transit. This inspection should be done immediately upon receipt in order to fall within the warranty period. An inspection must also be performed before wearing. Contaminated or damaged Lakeland chemical protective garments should not be re-used. Annual follow-up inspection is recommended for garments in storage.

Inspection of garments should include the following steps:

1. Lay the garment on a clean, smooth surface.

2. Use a flashlight inside and examine the outside of the garment for holes, cuts, or tears. Note: Apparent stitch holes covered by seam sealing tape do not constitute a defect.

3. Examine the seam tape for lifts or inadequate seal.

4. Examine the garment material and seams for signs of damage. Fabrics and seams sometimes have visual blemishes that do not affect barrier performance. Such blemishes can include dullness or white frosted areas adjacent to the seam tape. A breach or rupture of the barrier film is cause for rejection.
   
   Tincture of Iodine is used to confirm a physical breach. Apply Tincture of Iodine to the suspect area and wipe off the excess with a dry towel. If a dark brown stain remains, the barrier layer has been breached and the garment should be rejected. Areas immediately adjacent to the seam tape may take a slight yellow stain as a result of heat exposure during manufacture. This slight yellow stain is not a defect. The edges of the seam tape may also develop a thin, but prominent staining of the exposed edge. This is not a defect.

5. Examine the visor (if present) for a tight seal and make sure the visor offers clear vision.

6. Examine the garment air distribution system (if present) to make sure that it is connected properly and appears to be in working order.

7. Examine the garment gloves (if present) to make sure they are in good working order.

8. Examine the interface between the gloves and the garment if gloves are attached to the garment.

9. Examine the interface between the boots and the garment if the boots are attached to the garment.

10. Examine the garment zipper and zipper cover to make sure they are in good working order. Lubricate the zipper using a small amount of paraffin wax.

11. Examine the garment exhalation valves (if present) to make sure they are not obstructed and are in good working order.

12. Examine all garment snaps, closures, adjustment straps and options to make sure they are not obstructed and are in good working order.

13. Examine garment-warning label(s) to make sure they are firmly attached and can be read easily.

14. Vapor protective Level A garments and NFPA 1991 and NFPA 1994, Class 1 compliant garments should be checked for pressure integrity during each garment inspection.

Pressure Testing Vapor Protective Level A Garments

The purpose of the air-inflation test is to test the integrity of the Lakeland chemical protective vapor-protective garments fitted with  exhaust values.

The steps in this procedure are similar to those found in ASTM F1052-97 “Standard Test Method for Pressure Testing Vapor Protective Ensembles”. A copy of the standard may be obtained for a fee from ASTM (www.ASTM.org) or by calling (610) 832-9585.

The procedure below assumes the use of the Lakeland Pressure Test Kit (P/N 00010). The pressure test kit consists of:

• Unit with pressure gauge and timer

• Exhaust valve adapters

• Hoses which attach the valve fittings to the pressure test kit

• Plugs to block extra valves in NFPA 1991 certified ensembles

Users of other pressure test kits will have to modify the steps by which they attach the test kit to the garment.

Note: Air and garment temperature can affect the results of this test. If the temperature of the garment, the air outside the garment, or the air inside the garment changes during the test, an incorrect result may be obtained. Avoid circumstances that will heat or cool the garment during the test, such as conducting the test in the presence of drafts, under air conditioning ducts, or in the presence of direct sunlight.

Conduct the inflation test as follows:

1. Place the vapor-protective garment on a clean, smooth surface.

2. If the garment utilizes a snap to secure the exhaust valve pocket, unsnap and unfold that pocket cover.

3. Remove the outer cover of the exhaust valve body.
   Visually inspect the exhaust valve body of each exhaust valve for visible cracks.

4. Remove diaphragm from one exhaust valve body, insert the air outlet fitting into the valve body and gently twist the fitting to lock it in place.

5. Remove the diaphragm from the second exhaust valve, insert the air outlet fitting into the valve body and gently twist the fitting to lock it in place.
   Ensembles certified to NFPA 1991 and NFPA 1994, Class 1 have additional exhaust valves. The extra valves in the Lakeland chemical protective ensembles can be blocked with the plugs provided in the test kit.

6. Locate and connect the test kit to a power source. Open the valve and engage the blower motor. When the pressure gauge indicates 5 inches of water, close the valve and turn the blower off. Excessive, internal positive pressure can damage this garment. Do not inflate the garment above a pressure of 7 inches water column.

7. Wait at least 1 minute and reduce the air pressure to 4 inches of water. Set and start the timer. Read the pressure after 4 minutes. Note the test result and record the ending pressure on the inspection log. The garment is considered to “pass” if the pressure remains at or above 3.2 inches (80%) during these 4 minutes.

8. After the pressure test is completed, remove the fitting from each exhaust valve.

9. Re-install the diaphragm into each valve body.

10. Visually inspect each exhaust valve diaphragm to ensure it is properly sealed and not torn. Be sure that all exhaust valve diaphragms are installed to enable the air to flow out of the suit.

11. Re-install the exhaust valve outer cover on the valve body.

Repairing the Garment

If a garment fails a visual inspection or pressure test upon receipt, contact Lakeland Industries, inc. at 1-800-645-9291 to determine if the garment can be returned for inspection or repair. Note: Charges may be incurred. See warranty information.

Contaminated garments will not be accepted for repair. Discoloration or odors are evidence of contamination. Garments being returned for repairs must be accompanied by the usage log and a letter stating that the garments are not contaminated.

Storage

Storage Life

Lakeland chemical protective garments may contain materials, including gloves, closures and exhaust valves for which there is no specific storage life data available. It is suggested that garments be labeled and retired to “Training Use Only” after 5 years. Garments may be used as long as they pass a full visual inspection. In addition to the visual inspection, Level A garments should also pass the ASTM F1052 inflation test.

Uncontaminated garments that do not pass a visual inspection (Level A garments should also pass the inflation test) should be retired and labeled “For Training Use Only” or be discarded.

Optimum Storage Conditions

Preferably, garments should be stored in a cool, dark, dry location free of dirt and insects. Sunlight, ozone, high temperatures (>120° F), vehicle exhaust fumes, compression under heavy weights and sharp edges or projections are some conditions known to degrade the materials in these ensembles. Garments should be stored in boxes, in bags or on hangers.

Never step on chemical protective garments. Never place or store heavy objects on top of chemical garments.

Visor Antifog Procedures

Condensation may cause visor to fog. Commercially available anti-fog wipes can be used to clean and treat the internal lens. Follow the manufacturers instructions for application.

Closure Lubricants

No additional lubrication of the closure is suggested. If the zipper is difficult to operate, it can be lubricated lightly on the outer and inner components with paraffin (wax). After lubrication, the zipper should be closed and opened a number of times to assure that all excess lubricant has been removed.

Marking Suggestions and Restrictions

The garment can be marked with a permanent, felt tip marker.

Suggested Undergarments

This garment is designed and sized to be worn over standard work clothing. Thick, bulky clothing worn under this garment will affect the fit of the garment and limit the movement of the wearer.

Sizing Considerations

The Lakeland chemical protective clothing sizing chart should be used to determine accurate fit. The correct size garment should be worn. Users should verify sizing by donning the correct size garment and performing a series of exercises to simulate movements that may be required under actual usage conditions. These sizing tests should include outer boots, head protection and, if used, radio equipment and other accessories the wearer may carry during actual use. Such exercises may include:

• read the SCBA gauge

• pick up a box, carry it and set the box down in a separate location

• pick up a wrench from the ground

• open the garment closure

• climb up and down stairs and ladder

• adjust respirator face piece straps

• remove the SCBA without dislodging the full face respirator

• remove and refit full face respirator

• send and receive radio transmissions

• communicate with co-worker wearing the same type of garment and additional equipment

Wearers of vapor-protective garments and totally encapsulating liquid-protective garments may also want to consider a test to remove one hand or both hands from the gloves and wipe the face shield.

Donning the Garment

The wearer should be helped by a second person in donning and doffing a chemical protective ensemble. A ground cloth should be used to avoid contamination and damage to the garment. A chair free of sharp edges and projections should also be utilized.

Totally-encapsulating Vapor Protective (Level A) and Liquid Protective (Level B) Garments

1. Conduct a visual inspection of the garment before you begin donning:
   garment should be free of discoloration or physical damage
   inner gloves should be fully inserted into outer gloves
   inside and outside of exhaust values should be free of caps and plugs

2. Remove all jewelry and personal items (pens, key rings, badges, pagers, knife cases, etc.) that might damage the garment.

3. Check function of respirator and place near donning location.

4. Visually check size and condition of outer boots and place them nearby.

5. Open garment closure completely.

6. Read garment size label to assure proper fit.

7. Apply anti-fog to inside of visor.

8. Remove shoes. If the garment has socks, these socks are worn inside additional outer chemical boots. These socks do not have adequate durability or slip resistance to be worn as the outer footwear covering.

9. An assistant should help the wearer don the garment.

10. While sitting, insert feet into garment legs and down into sock boots, if so equipped. Stretch legs out to maximum extension while pulling garment up around hips.
    If the garment is fitted with boot covers, pull boot covers up and don outer boots. Then pull the boot covers down over the boots as far as possible.

11. While standing, connect and adjust garment waist belt (if equipped) until comfortably snug.

12. While standing, with garment at waist level, don respirator harness and back piece.

13. Don respirator facepiece and check its function. To conserve SCBA air supply, disconnect the air supply from the facepiece, if possible, as long as the closure is open and the wearer has access to fresh air. In the case of an air line breathing system, complete all connections and adjustments.

14. Don protective headgear and communication equipment.

15. If not already done, connect the respirator facepiece to the air supply an d make sure the respirator is functioning properly and adequate air is being provided to the wearer.

16. Place one hand in the sleeve and pull the garment sleeve to the shoulder. Make sure hand is securely inside the glove.

17. Place other hand in sleeve and glove.

18. If gloves are not attached to the garment, then don gloves. Taping should only be used to hold the sleeve in position over the glove gauntlet. Taping of the glove to sleeve interface does not provide a leak-proof seal. If a leak-proof seal between the glove and sleeve is required, then a garment with attached gloves should be selected.

19. Pull the garment over respirator backpack making sure nothing will constrict or hamper airflow.

20. Have assistant slowly close the gas-tight closure. After checking that the closure is completely closed, the flaps should be closed and sealed over the closure.

Non-encapsulating Garments

1. Conduct a visual inspection of the garment before you begin donning:
   garment should be free of discoloration or physical damage
   inner gloves should be fully inserted into outer gloves

2. Remove all jewelry and personal items (pens, key rings, badges, pagers, knife cases, etc.) that might damage the garment.

3. Check function of respirator and place nearby donning location.

4. Visually check size and condition of outer boots and place nearby.

5. Open garment closure completely.

6. Read garment size label to assure proper fit.

7. Apply anti-fog to inside of visor, if present.

8. Remove shoes. If the garment has attached socks, these socks are worn inside outer chemical boots. These sock boots do not have adequate durability or slip resistance to be worn as the outer footwear covering.

9. An assistant should help the wearer don the garment.

10. While sitting, insert feet into garment legs and down into sock boot, if so equipped. Stretch legs out to maximum extension while pulling garment up around hips.

11. If the garment has outer boot covers, pull the boot covers up and don outer boots. Then pull boot cover down over boots as far as possible. If the garment does not have socks, pull the garment cuff up before donning the boot, then pull the cuff down over the outside of the boot.

12. Place one hand in the sleeve and pull garment sleeve to shoulder. Make sure hand is securely inside the glove, if attached.

13. Place other hand in sleeve and glove, if attached, and pull the garment over that shoulder.

14. If gloves are not attached to the garment, pull up the sleeve, don the gloves and pull the sleeve opening over the gauntlet of the glove.

15. Don respirator facepiece and check its function. If using an SCBA, disconnect the air supply from the facepiece, if possible, to save air supply.

16. Don protective headgear, if it is worn underneath the garment hood, and communication equipment.

17. Place attached hood over the head and close zipper.

18. After checking that the zipper is completely closed, the flaps should be folded over the zipper and sealed.

19. In the case of an air-line breathing system, complete all connections and adjustments.

20. If not already done, connect the respirator facepiece to the air supply and make sure the respirator is functioning properly and adequate air is being provided to the wearer.

21. Place separate hood over head and attach underarm straps (NFPA 1994, Class 3 only).

Doffing the Garment

Totally-encapsulating Vapor Protective (Level A) and Liquid Protective (Level B) Garments

1. If the garment has been contaminated or is suspected of being contaminated, the wearer should continue to use his respirator until the garment has been doffed and removed.

2. An assistant should help the wearer doff the garment after field decontamination. If the garment has been contaminated, the assistant should wear protective clothing and respiratory equipment.

3. While the wearer stands, the assistant should open the closure and peel the garment down and away from the wearer’s shoulders. The assistant should help the wearer remove his arms from the sleeves. External air lines should be disconnected from the garment and from the wearer’s respirator, while the wearer switches to his escape bottle.

4. Lower garment below the hips and sit down. Have the assistant remove the boots, pull the garment off the legs and remove the garment to a remote location.

5. Once the garment has been removed, the wearer can doff the respiratory facepiece and harness.

Non-encapsulating Garments

1. If the garment has been contaminated or is suspected of being contaminated, the wearer should continue to use his respirator until the garment has been doffed and removed.

2. An assistant should help the wearer doff the garment after field decontamination. If the garment has been contaminated, the assistant should wear protective clothing and respiratory equipment.

3. If the wearer is wearing an SCBA or PAPR, the assistant should help the wearer remove the respirator straps and rest the respirator in a safe, dry position. While the wearer stands, the assistant should remove the outer hood, then open the closure and peel the garment down and away from the wearer’s shoulders. The assistant should help the wearer remove his arms from the sleeves.

4. Lower the garment below the hips and sit down. Have the assistant remove the boots, pull the garment off the legs and remove the garment to a remote location.

5. Once the garment has been removed, the wearer can disconnect and remove the respiratory facepiece and harness.

Decontamination and Cleaning

Decontamination Solutions

Do not use any oxidative, corrosive or reactive decontamination solutions with this garment. The only decontamination solutions to use with this garment are water and mild, household dishwashing liquid.

Field Decontamination

The purpose of field decontamination is to allow the wearer to doff the garment without being harmed by contaminants on the garment surface. Garments that have been exposed to or that are suspected of being exposed to hazardous chemicals should be thoroughly decontaminated in the field before doffing. Additional cleaning and decontamination, as well as a full inspection, are required before a garment may be re-used.

1. Leave the hot zone with adequate air supply for decontamination and removal of the garment. The wearer should continue to wear the respirator until the garment has been completely doffed and removed from the area.

2. If the garment has been exposed or is suspected to have been exposed, thoroughly scrub the garment using household dishwashing liquid and soft scrub brushes, followed by a thorough rinsing in water.

3. If possible, remove the excess rinse water from the garment by individuals wearing gloves, liquid-splash protective clothing and respiratory protection. At a minimum, the rinse water on and near the closure assembly should be removed.

Decontamination before Re-use

This garment is designed for limited-use applications. It is priced to make disposal after use economically justified when the effectiveness of decontamination is in question. If the garment is contaminated during use, it should be discarded.

It is the responsibility of the safety professional having jurisdiction over usage of the garment to determine whether the suit has been contaminated and can be safely reused.

Contaminated garments should be discarded and are not suitable for training.

Cleaning

Garments should be clean and dry before use. Water and mild, household dishwashing liquid should be used to clean this garment. This garment may be scrubbed with a soft brush or hand towel, thoroughly rinsed with clean, fresh water and air-dried. Do not use any oxidative, corrosive or reactive decontamination solutions with this garment. Do not dry-clean this garment. Do not use hot air or a tumbling air dryer to dry this garment. Do not use bleach.

Retirement Considerations

It is suggested this garment be retired from service if any of the following criteria are met:

• Garment fails to pass inspection.

• Vapor-protective garment fails the inflation test.

• Garment is abraded, cut, torn, punctured, or otherwise and in any way breached.

• Garment has had prolonged exposure to intense heat and/or ultraviolet light.

• Garment has been contaminated.

Retired garments that are not contaminated may be labeled and used “For Training Only”. The labeling should be done with a permanent marker.

Disposal

If not contaminated, this chemical protective garment may be buried or incinerated. Because the chemical protective garment comprises several different plastics - polyolefin, polyester, and vinyl - it is not suitable for recycling. The uncontaminated chemical protective garment may be incinerated in a facility that is capable of handling mixtures containing these plastics. Likewise, an uncontaminated chemical protective garment may be buried in a facility that accepts similar plastic materials.

Over-covers may be landfilled if not contaminated.

Contaminated garments that cannot be handled safely without protective equipment may have to be disposed of with other hazardous wastes, either through incineration or burial.