What type of breathing apparatus is required when using chemical paint strippers that contain methylene chloride?

The correct response highlights that the use of chemical paint strippers containing methylene chloride requires a high level of safety due to the respiratory hazards associated with the chemical. Methylene chloride is known to be a volatile organic compound (VOC) that can pose significant health risks, particularly through inhalation.

Therefore, proper breathing apparatus is essential to avoid the harmful effects of exposure. Regular masks do not provide adequate protection against the inhalation of hazardous vapors, while HEPA-filter masks are designed to filter particulate matter but may not sufficiently protect against chemical vapors.

The requirement for specialized breathing apparatus underscores the importance of using equipment that is specifically designed to filter out chemical particles and vapors. This ensures that the worker is adequately protected, reducing the risk of short-term and long-term health effects associated with exposure to harmful chemicals like methylene chloride. The category of "never permitted" emphasizes the serious nature of the risks involved and the absolute necessity for safe handling practices when working with such materials.