The first factor in determining when to wear PPE is the:

• A. doffing procedure
• B. hazard on the scene
• C. risk of cardiac arrest
• D. on-scene rehab policy

Answer: (B)

Identifying hazards on the scene drives when you wear PPE. Before you don any protective gear, you scan for what could cause harm—smoke or toxic fumes, chemicals, structural instability, heat, biological risks, energized equipment, and other threats. Those hazards determine the level and type of protection required, so recognizing them first tells you exactly what PPE is needed (eye protection, gloves, turnout gear, respirators, hazmat suits, etc.). Doffing procedures matter for safe removal after exposure, but they don’t set the initial PPE requirements. On-scene rehab policies guide ongoing health monitoring and rest during long incidents, not the first decision about PPE. The risk of cardiac arrest is a medical consideration for patient care and monitoring, not the primary factor that establishes PPE needs at the outset.