Which Hazardous Materials Require Hazmat Suits?
Posted by William Kimmell on 9th Aug 2023
Hazardous materials are substances that can harm human health or the environment. They require proper containment and handling to mitigate risk.
Hazmat is an abbreviation for hazardous materials. Hazmat suits are specialized protective garments that shield individuals from exposure to unsafe materials. Learn which hazardous materials require hazmat suits.
Chemical Agents
Chemical agents are chemical elements or compounds that occur naturally or are produced, used, or released. They are among the most hazardous materials individuals encounter in various industries.
Chemical agents include toxic chemicals, corrosive substances, and irritants. Exposure to these can lead to severe skin and respiratory irritations, burns, and, in extreme cases, death. Hazmat suits are made with impermeable materials that protect against chemical agents by creating a barrier between the wearer’s skin and dangerous chemicals.
Radioactive Materials
Radioactive materials are radionuclides, a class of chemicals with unstable nuclei. In order to stabilize, the nucleus of a radionuclide changes in a process called radioactive decay. As the radioactive material undergoes radioactive decay, it emits ionizing radiation.
Ionizing radiation causes ionization in the mediums it passes through, causing cell molecules to break apart. The ionizing radiation that radioactive materials emit increases the risk of cancer, and intense exposure may produce tissue or skin damage. Individuals who may be exposed to radioactive materials should wear Level A hazmat suits, which offer the highest available level of protection.
Biological Hazards
Biological hazards are another type of hazardous material that requires hazmat suits. Biological hazards encompass many dangerous microorganisms, such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi.
Pathogens can cause infectious diseases that may spread rapidly and lead to severe outbreaks. Hazmat suits equipped with air-tight seals and breathing apparatuses protect people from inhaling airborne pathogens. Moreover, impermeable materials can prevent contact with bodily fluids or contaminated surfaces to minimize the risk of transmission to the wearer.
TG Technical Services provides top-of-the-line chemical protective suits, including Level A and Level B hazmat suits. Shield yourself or your team members with a reliable suit that safeguards against respiratory, skin, and eye hazards. Shop with us today for essential protection that can be used in toxic environments.