Name two types of protective masks used in Phase V readiness and their appropriate uses.

• A. Gas mask with canister for field CBRN defense; SCBA for high-threat or enclosed-space operations requiring breathable air.
• B. SCBA for field CBRN defense; Gas mask with canister for enclosed spaces.
• C. Gas mask with canister for field CBRN defense; N95 for high-threat operations.
• D. Gas mask with canister for field CBRN defense; NIOSH-approved PAPR for high-threat operations.

Answer: (A)

In Phase V readiness, you need protection that fits two different hazard scenarios: moving in the field where air may be contaminated, and entering spaces where the air itself isn’t safe to breathe. A gas mask with a canister fits the first scenario. It provides chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear filtration so you can operate in a contaminated environment without relying on an outside air supply. It’s mobile and designed for field defense, where the concern is filtering the air you inhale.

The second scenario calls for an SCBA. This provides a self-contained source of breathable air, allowing you to work in environments where the surrounding air may be oxygen-deficient or heavily contaminated—such as enclosed spaces or high-threat operations. The SCBA isn’t just filtering air; it delivers its own air supply, enabling longer or more demanding tasks where ambient air can’t be trusted.

N95 masks or powered air-purifying respirators (PAPRs) don’t align as well with these specific Phase V needs. An N95 isn’t sufficient protection against CBRN agents, and while PAPRs offer filtration with a blower, they aren’t self-contained air supplies like an SCBA and may not meet the same requirements for enclosed-space or high-threat scenarios.