Worker exposure to toxic liquids and gases is a concern in many industries and across occupations. When handling chemicals or cleaning up spills, undertaking hazardous waste disposal, industrial tank cleaning or performing maintenance tasks, worker safety demands provision of suitable protection.

While all hazardous substances can pose risks to workers, gases are particularly difficult to manage. Many highly toxic gases are colourless, odourless, flammable or highly volatile. Additionally, seemingly innocuous substances can become deadly when heat — or any other form-changing process — is applied. For example, polyurethane foam poses no immediate threat in solid form but releases lethal gases when burnt.

Do you know what’s your type?

Gas and vapour hazards call for a Type 1 or Type 2 suit. Based on the wearers needs, gas-tight suits are available in different designs.

1. Encapsulating
The self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is worn inside the suit. Encapsulating suits are easy to decontaminate, but can be bulky and offer limited peripheral vision.

2. Non-encapsulating
Non-encapsulating suits are slimmer in design, making it easier to move in confined spaces. Wearers tend to feel less claustrophobic in non-encapsulating suits. However, they can be difficult to decontaminate. The SCBA is worn outside the suit.

3. Freeflow
An air-fed suit for use with external air source (no SCBA). Freeflow suits provide breathing air via an air-line and are commonly used in industrial applications.