Which level of PPE includes turnout gear?

• A. Level C PPE
• B. Level B PPE
• C. Level A PPE
• D. Level D PPE

Answer: (B)

Turnout gear provides the thermal protection firefighters need, and when used in hazardous materials contexts, it’s paired with a protection level that emphasizes splash resistance and respiratory protection without full encapsulation. This combination is Level B PPE: non-encapsulating, chemical-resistant clothing with splash protection, worn with an SCBA for breathing protection. It offers a high level of skin and splash protection plus reliable respiratory safety, but it isn’t a fully encapsulating suit. Level A would require a completely encapsulating suit for unknown or highly dangerous vapors, Level C relies on air-purifying respirators without the same degree of protection as SCBA, and Level D is basic work clothing with minimal protection. So, turnout gear aligned with an SCBA corresponds to Level B PPE.