How do you effectively clear a field protective mask?

How do you effectively clear a field protective mask?

• A. Remove the mask completely
• B. Put your hand over the inlet valve and inhale
• C. Put your hand over the outlet valve and exhale
• D. Shake the mask to clear it

Answer: (C)

Clearing a field protective mask is a critical skill that ensures proper functionality of the mask in a contaminated environment. The correct technique involves covering the outlet valve and exhaling. This action creates a slight buildup of pressure inside the mask, which forces out any contaminants that may be trapped within. After exhaling, a proper seal is maintained to ensure that air enters through the filter, allowing the user to breathe safely. Using this method is effective because it prevents the inhalation of harmful particles that could compromise the effectiveness of the mask. Other techniques, such as shaking the mask or removing it completely, would not effectively clear contaminants and could expose the user to potential hazards. Covering the inlet valve and inhaling does not ensure that the mask is free of contaminants either, as it can still allow harmful substances inside. Thus, exhaling while covering the outlet valve is the correct method to clear a field protective mask effectively.

Clearing a field protective mask is a critical skill that ensures proper functionality of the mask in a contaminated environment. The correct technique involves covering the outlet valve and exhaling. This action creates a slight buildup of pressure inside the mask, which forces out any contaminants that may be trapped within. After exhaling, a proper seal is maintained to ensure that air enters through the filter, allowing the user to breathe safely.

Using this method is effective because it prevents the inhalation of harmful particles that could compromise the effectiveness of the mask. Other techniques, such as shaking the mask or removing it completely, would not effectively clear contaminants and could expose the user to potential hazards. Covering the inlet valve and inhaling does not ensure that the mask is free of contaminants either, as it can still allow harmful substances inside. Thus, exhaling while covering the outlet valve is the correct method to clear a field protective mask effectively.