Which description defines Level B PPE?

• A. Lowest level of protection.
• B. Highest respiratory protection, lesser skin protection; includes hooded chemical-protective suit.
• C. Lesser level of respiratory and skin protection; includes full-face or half-mask APR.
• D. Lowest level of protection; consists of coveralls, gloves, and boots.

Answer: (B)

Level B PPE is selected when the priority is protecting the wearer’s respiratory system while still providing substantial skin protection, but without the fully encapsulated suit of Level A. The description reflects this balance: the highest level of respiratory protection is used (typically a full-face respirator with a hooded chemical-protective suit and often an SCBA or PAPR), while the skin protection is strong but not completely sealed like in Level A. This setup protects the lungs from toxic vapors and aerosols, while the hood and chemical-resistant suit shield the skin from splashes and contact, though the suit isn’t fully encapsulating. It differs from Level A, which provides the most complete skin and respiratory protection via a totally encapsulating suit, and from Level C, which relies on air-purifying respirators with less skin protection, and Level D, which is basic work attire.