Improper removal of PPE causes what?

• A. Increased comfort
• B. Exposure risk
• C. Faster work
• D. No effect on safety

Answer: (B)

Safe removal of PPE is all about preventing self-contamination. When PPE is contaminated with pesticides, touching the outside surfaces during doffing or removing in the wrong order can transfer residues to your skin, eyes, nose, mouth, or lungs, creating an exposure risk. The outside of gloves, gowns, goggles, and respirators can carry residues, so handling them carefully—removing gloves first, turning them inside out, then removing the gown, face protection, and respirator, followed by thorough hand hygiene—helps keep hazardous residues away from you and your environment. Improper removal does not make work more comfortable or faster, and it clearly affects safety by increasing the chance of exposure to harmful chemicals.