What is the function of Chemical Protective Clothing (CPC)?

The function of Chemical Protective Clothing (CPC) is to shield responders from specific chemical hazards. CPC is designed to protect emergency personnel from the dangerous effects of hazardous materials, including toxic chemicals, biological agents, and other harmful substances that they may encounter during a response. By providing a barrier between the skin and these contaminants, CPC significantly reduces the risk of chemical exposure and injury, allowing responders to perform their duties safely in environments where hazardous materials are present.

Each type of CPC is formulated to protect against particular chemicals, ensuring that emergency responders have an appropriate level of protection based on the nature of the substances they are dealing with. This capability is crucial in hazardous material incidents, where even brief exposure can lead to severe health consequences.

While comfort and visibility are important in various emergency response situations, they are not the primary purposes of CPC. Similarly, while some materials in CPC might absorb certain chemicals, the primary function remains protective rather than absorptive. Thus, the essence of CPC is its role as a vital component in keeping responders safe from chemical hazards.