Under what condition should APRs be utilized?

Utilizing APRs, or Air-Purifying Respirators, should always be authorized by Incident Command to ensure that they are deployed in accordance with the safety protocols and operational guidelines specific to the incident. Incident Command is responsible for assessing the risks associated with the environment and determining the appropriate types of personal protective equipment needed.

This authorization is critical because it ensures that the use of APRs aligns with the overall incident strategy, the nature of the hazards present, and the training and experience levels of the personnel involved. Properly following this command structure helps to ensure safety and effectiveness in managing the situation, as Incident Command takes into account various factors such as air quality, chemical exposure risks, and the need for additional protective measures.

Conditions like personnel training, the availability of onsite monitoring devices, or specific procedures such as decontamination may be relevant, but they do not independently justify the use of APRs. It is the directive from Incident Command that provides the necessary framework for safe and appropriate equipment utilization in emergency scenarios.