What should be done if a PPE suit is torn or damaged?

If a personal protective equipment (PPE) suit is torn or damaged, replacing it immediately is the correct course of action. The integrity of PPE is crucial in hazardous environments, as it is designed to protect firefighters from exposure to harmful substances. A tear or damage compromises this protective capability and could lead to dangerous exposure to chemicals, toxins, or biological hazards.

Replacing the suit ensures that the firefighter is appropriately safeguarded against potential hazards during operations. While informing a supervisor is an important step in maintaining safety protocols, the immediate action to protect oneself is to obtain a new suit that meets safety standards. Repairing the suit could also lead to false security; even a repaired suit might not provide the same level of protection as an undamaged one. Continuing to use a damaged suit is not advisable, as it increases the risk of exposure to hazardous materials. Therefore, immediate replacement is the safest and most effective action to take in such situations.