When should you remove PPE to avoid cross-contamination?

• A. After leaving the treated area and following label decontamination instructions; remove outer gloves first and wash hands thoroughly.
• B. Before entering the treated area.
• C. After opening the bottle.
• D. Never remove PPE.

Answer: (B)

Cross-contamination is minimized by keeping PPE on while you work in the treated area and removing it only after you’ve left and completed the decontamination steps outlined on the label. This approach prevents residues from being carried from the treated area to clean spaces. Start doffing by removing the outer gloves first and washing hands thoroughly, then remove the remaining PPE in the order specified by the label, and perform hand hygiene again. Following these steps helps ensure you and surrounding areas aren’t carry-overs of the treated zone. Removing PPE before entering, or removing it after opening a bottle, wouldn’t protect against spreading residues, and never removing PPE defeats the purpose of decontamination.