How is structural firefighter protective clothing categorized regarding CPC?

Structural firefighter protective clothing, often referred to as bunker gear, is specifically designed to protect fire personnel from heat, flames, and other hazards encountered during firefighting operations. However, in the context of the classification for Chemical Protective Clothing (CPC), structural firefighter clothing is not classified as CPC because it does not provide the same chemical barrier protection that is essential for handling hazardous materials.

CPC is designed to protect against specific chemicals, including liquids, gases, and vapors that could be encountered in hazardous environments. In contrast, structural firefighter protective clothing primarily focuses on thermal protection and does not have the necessary properties to safeguard against all chemicals. Therefore, this clothing serves a different purpose and is not included in the CPC categories.

This distinction is crucial for safety planning and response strategies, as knowing the capabilities and limitations of different types of protective clothing ensures that firefighters use the appropriate gear for the specific hazards they face in their operations.