Of the 62 guides found in the orange-bordered section of the ERG, only two, Guides 161 and 162 (low level and low to moderate level radiation) list ________ as providing adequate protection for first responders

• A. PPE and gloves only
• B. SCBA and structural firefighter's protective clothing
• C. Hard hats and steel-toed boots
• D. Simple splash goggles and gloves

Answer: (B)

Protection for first responders in low-level radiological releases hinges on guarding both inhalation hazards and skin contact. The combination of a self-contained breathing apparatus and structural firefighter’s protective clothing provides that dual protection: the SCBA delivers clean breathing air and creates a barrier to inhaling radioactive dust or aerosols, while the structural turnout gear offers full-body coverage, including head and hands, plus heat and splash protection. This setup aligns with what the ERG guides 161 and 162 specify for adequately protecting responders at these radiation levels. Other options omit essential parts of protection—relying on just gloves or goggles, or lacking respiratory protection, leaves responders exposed to inhalation risks or dermal contamination.