API RP 98

This recommended practice (RP) provides general information and guidance for the development of oil spill responder personal protective equipment (PPE) control measures. Although an extensive amount of information has been developed on the topic of PPE for emergency responders, this document focuses on the PPE selection process as well as its technical evaluation based on the hazards present.

This RP is intended for any company, organization, or agency that oversees or responds to oil spills. It is not a comprehensive “how-to” guide to selecting PPE for every type of situation that may be encountered; rather, it is a guidance document that discusses how proper PPE selection may be a useful control measure for responders when engineering and administrative controls may not be feasible or effective in reducing exposure to acceptable levels.

The purpose of this RP is to assist users in developing effective PPE control measures for oil spill responses using a systematic approach.