How Hazmat Suits Work and Protect You

Hazmat suits are a vital form of protection for workers in the forensic services sector. This guide explains how they work and why they are so important.


Many people are often unaware of how dangerous working in forensics can be. Indeed, those operating in this profession could be exposed to a wide range of harmful substances, particularly when investigating a crime scene. For this reason, hazmat suits are often essential pieces of wear and will need to be used. Let’s uncover why this is and how they work to protect you.

How Do Forensic Hazmat Suits Work?

Every weapon regardless of its design has a form of protection to prevent it from hurting you. To protect yourself from bullets, you need to wear kevlar or for protection from swords, knights used to wear chainmail. Today, one of the most modern forms of protection is a hazmat suit. The full name of this PPE is a hazardous materials suit. It is designed to shield people from hazardous liquids and gases.


Hazmat suits are designed to form a barrier for the individual that is made from plastic, rubber and fabric. It also offers an independent source of oxygen, ensuring that an individual will be able to breathe while wearing the suits. Ultimately a suit like this will protect work from an environment that is judged to be harmful.


It’s worth noting that there are different types of hazmat suits. Certain suits slip on over clothing while other hazmat suits must be completely airtight. These suits are designed to protect individuals from toxic chemicals and airborne contaminants that could be present in a particular environment. Aside from being used by forensic services, these suits are also used by a range of other professionals including industry workers, military personnel and healthcare workers.

Different Levels Of Protection

It’s important to be aware that these suits can offer different levels of protection. Essentially, any item that protects workers from hazardous materials could be labeled as a hazmat suit.


External link opens in new tab or windowForensic hazmat suits will typically provide one of the most advanced forms of protection. Since they are airtight, they can be suitable for locations where there could be toxins in the atmosphere and to pick up or handle dangerous objects.


Type A suits are the most advanced hazmat suits available for purchase on the market. These do come equipped with a self-contained breathing apparatus. As such, you can remain in the suit for a long period while working in a dangerous environment and have the peace of mind that you are protected.


Type D suits are the lowest form of hazmat suits. While they do offer certain levels of protection they will typically only be worn by industrial workers. This could include an apron, boots, glasses or long gloves rather than a full protective suit.


We hope this helps you understand how hazmats work and why they could be necessary in the world of forensics. With the right hazmat suit, you can remain safe even in a dangerous environment.