What are the two main categories of respiratory protection used in firefighting?

The choice of self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and airline respirators as the two main categories of respiratory protection in firefighting is correct because both are essential for ensuring firefighters can operate in environments where the air is compromised or contaminated.

Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) provides firefighters with a reliable supply of breathable air while operating in hazardous conditions, such as during structural fires or in areas with toxic smoke. An SCBA consists of a cylinder filled with compressed air, a pressure regulator, and a facepiece that allows the firefighter to inhale clean air.

Airline respirators, on the other hand, deliver air from a remote source through a hose, allowing for an extended working period, which is particularly useful in situations where a refill of SCBA might be needed or when the air supply in the environment is continuously monitored and controlled. These are often used in less hazardous environments but still require a consistent supply of clean air.

Together, these two types of respiratory protection provide firefighters with the necessary tools to perform their duties safely in a variety of dangerous scenarios while minimizing the risk of inhaling harmful substances. The other options listed do not encompass the primary categories used in firefighting as effectively as SCBA and airline respirators do.