Which of the following is a potential hazard linked to facepiece failure?

A facepiece is a critical component of personal protective equipment, particularly in hazardous environments such as firefighting or chemical response situations. When a facepiece fails, it can lead to multiple serious hazards that can jeopardize the safety of the wearer.

Exposure to toxic fumes is a significant concern. If the facepiece does not seal properly or is compromised, harmful gases and particulate matter can enter, putting the firefighter at risk of inhalation injuries or poisoning.

Reduced visibility can also occur due to a malfunctioning facepiece, either because of fogging, damage, or debris accumulation. Poor visibility can hinder a responder’s ability to navigate safely and make effective decisions in dangerous situations.

Loss of air pressure is another critical hazard associated with facepiece failure. If the air supply system fails—whether due to a breach in the facepiece or a malfunction in the air tank—the wearer could quickly find themselves without breathable air, leading to suffocation or panic.

Given that each of these conditions represents a serious risk to health and safety, the correct answer encompasses all potential hazards linked to facepiece failure. This broadens the understanding of the importance of maintaining and checking the integrity of facepieces before use in hazardous situations.