Which EPA level of chemical-protective clothing provides a high level of respiratory protection, but less skin protection?

Level B chemical-protective clothing is designed to provide a high level of respiratory protection, typically using supplied air or self-contained breathing apparatus, while offering a lower level of skin protection compared to Level A. This level is appropriate for situations where respiratory hazards are present, but the specific chemicals do not pose a high risk of skin exposure. While it offers some protection from splashes and spills, it does not provide the full encapsulation that Level A does, which is necessary for handling live agents or materials that pose a significant danger to skin contact.

In contrast, Level A provides the highest level of protection for both respiratory and skin exposure, typically used in hazardous environments where there is the potential for direct contact with known or suspected toxic substances. Level C involves less respiratory protection and is suitable for situations where the airborne substance's concentration is known and within acceptable limits, using air-purifying respirators but not providing the comprehensive skin protection that Level B offers. Level D is the least protective, designed for general work environments where no significant hazards are present, and is mainly a uniform with minimal protective features.