Which PPE item is used to protect the hands from chemical exposure in Phase V?

• A. Chemical-resistant gloves approved for CBRN operations
• B. Insulated work gloves
• C. Nitrile disposable gloves
• D. Latex surgical gloves

Answer: (A)

Hands need a barrier that is proven to withstand chemical exposure, especially in Phase V. Chemical-resistant gloves that are approved for CBRN operations are designed and tested to resist permeation by a wide range of chemical agents and decontamination methods. They provide a reliable protective barrier, maintain integrity during handling tasks, and are rated for the specific hazards you might encounter in Phase V, ensuring both safety and compatibility with other PPE.

Other glove types don’t offer the same protection for chemical hazards. Insulated gloves are meant for temperature protection, not chemical resistance. Nitrile disposable gloves may offer some chemical resistance, but without a CBRN approval, they may not meet the necessary standards for prolonged or specific chemical exposures. Latex surgical gloves have limited chemical resistance and can be degraded by many solvents, plus they introduce allergy concerns.