Chemical-resistant coveralls

---

A one- or two-piece suit that the manufacturer specifies to be resistant to certain chemicals. Suits made of butyl rubber, neoprene, PVC, or one of the newer coated and laminated polyethylene fabrics may be appropriate. Generally, greater material thickness, bound or sealed seams, and covered zippers and vent holes will increase the protection offered. These garments are often elasticized at the wrist and ankle. Some are reusable if properly cleaned, and some must be disposed of after a single use. You will be safest and most comfortable in protective clothing that fits. Do not use coveralls made from fabrics such as cotton, polyester, or uncoated, non-woven olefin unless the label specifies “long-sleeved shirt and long pants” or “coverall worn over long-sleeved shirt and long pants.”

Characteristics of some commonly-used pesticide coveralls (Consult manufacturers for more information)
Material	Particulate Protection Class *	Splash Protection Class *	Liquid proof?	Liquid chemical protection?	Breathable?	Relative cost
Tempro®	IV	(none)	NO	NO	YES	LOW
ProShield2®	I	III	NO	YES	YES	LOW
Tyvek®	I	III	NO	NO	YES	LOW
Tyvek® QC / sewn seams	I	II	NO	YES	NO	LOW
Tyvek® QC / sealed seams	I	II	YES	YES	NO	Moderate
Kleenguard® LP	I	III	NO	NO	YES	LOW
Tychem® SL / surged seams	I	I	NO	YES	NO	Moderate
Tychem® SL / sealed seams	I	I	YES	YES	NO	HIGH
PVC coverall	I	I	YES	YES	NO	HIGH
PVC suit	I	I	YES	YES	NO	Moderat8
*Protection Class is determined by the “Signal Word” on the pesticide label: Class I = Signal words “DANGER” or “DANGER/ POISON” (highly toxic)     Class III = Signal word “CAUTION”   (less toxic) Class II = Signal word “WARNING” (toxic)                                                    Class IV = Signal word “CAUTION” (least toxic)