Which type of protective equipment provides protection from both levels of radiated heat?

Which type of protective equipment provides protection from both levels of radiated heat?

• A. Turnout gear
• B. Heat-resistant gloves
• C. Full-face respirators
• D. Proximity suits

Answer: (D)

Proximity suits are built to shield the entire body from radiant heat, including both moderate and the highest levels encountered near flames. They use a reflective outer layer plus thick insulation and sealed joints, so heat is kept away from the wearer even when close to a heat source. Turnout gear protects against structural flames but isn’t designed for the most intense radiant heat. Heat-resistant gloves protect the hands only, leaving the rest of the body exposed to heat. Full-face respirators guard the face and lungs from gases and smoke but do not provide body-wide radiant heat protection.

Proximity suits are built to shield the entire body from radiant heat, including both moderate and the highest levels encountered near flames. They use a reflective outer layer plus thick insulation and sealed joints, so heat is kept away from the wearer even when close to a heat source. Turnout gear protects against structural flames but isn’t designed for the most intense radiant heat. Heat-resistant gloves protect the hands only, leaving the rest of the body exposed to heat. Full-face respirators guard the face and lungs from gases and smoke but do not provide body-wide radiant heat protection.