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

The correct answer is associated with Level B chemical-protective clothing, which is designed to provide a high level of respiratory protection while offering a lower level of skin protection compared to Level A. Level B gear includes a full-face respirator or powered air-purifying respirator, which safeguards against airborne hazards, including toxic vapors and gases.

At the same time, the suit material used in Level B may not be fully encapsulating or impermeable to all chemicals, so while it protects the respiratory system effectively, the skin is not protected to the same extent as in Level A gear, which is fully encapsulated. This makes Level B appropriate for situations where respiratory protection is paramount but exposure to hazardous materials through the skin is not as significant a risk.

Levels C and D have less respiratory protection compared to Level B and may not be suitable for use in situations with immediate respiratory hazards, focusing more on general safety and comfort in non-toxic environments.