Munitions Firefighting Practice Exam

What equipment must responders wear when dealing with airborne beryllium as a respirable particulate?

1. Face shield only

2. Self-contained breathing apparatus

3. Standard mask

4. Eyes protection goggles

The correct answer is: Self-contained breathing apparatus

When dealing with airborne beryllium as a respirable particulate, responders must wear a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Beryllium is a toxic metal that poses significant health risks when inhaled, including chronic beryllium disease and lung cancer. The use of an SCBA provides a reliable source of clean, breathable air, effectively protecting the respiratory system from harmful exposure. In this context, the other options do not offer adequate protection. A face shield alone does not protect the respiratory system, and while standard masks can provide some level of filtration, they are not sufficient for the fine particulate matter associated with beryllium. Eye protection goggles may shield the eyes from splashes or debris but do nothing to protect the lungs from toxic particles. Therefore, the self-contained breathing apparatus is the appropriate choice to ensure the safety of responders in environments contaminated with airborne beryllium.