Abstract
This paper outlines an approach for selecting chemical protective clothing that is based on the overall integrity of the clothing and barrier characteristics of the material. Two levels of clothing performance are described—vapor protection and liquid splash protection. Each level of performance is defined by an appropriate clothing integrity and material barrier test available in standards established by the American Society for Testing and Materials and the National Fire Protection Association. Vapor-protective performance requires gaslight integrity as found on totally encapsulating suits with suit materials offering permeation resistance to the chemical of interest. Liquid splash-protective performance can be demonstrated by a shower-like test for liquid-tight integrity and suit materials that resist penetration by liquids. Other factors such as durability, strength, comfort, and function should also be considered. The decision for vapor versus liquid splash protection depends on the hazards of the chemicals, the duration of exposure, and other factors posed by the work environment.