The proper way to care for protective gear

Safety equipment is not cheap. It requires much time and effort to learn how to use equipment pieces properly. Both employers and employees wouldn't want malfunctioning or damaged equipment, especially when working in areas where hazardous materials are present.

Workplace occupational health and safety standards necessitate employees to sanitize and care for their protective gear. This requirement isn't only to add to the longevity of the equipment pieces but also to keep employees safe from hazardous materials that may be present in their work environment. According to Captain Martin Lloyd Sanders, Ph.D., CSP, safety personal protection equipment helps prevent exposure to dangerous elements when cleaned regularly and kept in safe spaces.

PPE pieces such as gloves, glasses, visors, hats, and helmets can be washed using tap water and liquid soap. Regular washing of gear pieces kills viruses that may lurk in the workplace. While some pieces may do well when washed using hot water, others may get damaged. Submerging the equipment in water isn't a requirement, as wiping this with soapy water and rinsing it with tap water would be enough. Remember to hang-dry the PPE pieces in a well-ventilated space to prevent mold growth.

Captain Martin Sanders, Ph.D., CSP, reminds us that while there is a pandemic, it is best to clean one's PPE after every use. Should an employee not have their own PPE, it is advised that they clean the gear between uses. However, now that a deadly virus is still around, the most favorable course is to provide each employee with their own PPE.

Captain Martin Lloyd Sanders, Ph.D., CSP, is an expert in the field of biological safety and security. He has helped resolve biosafety and biosecurity concerns in the US and other countries. Visit this blog for more updates.

Disclaimer: This site was prepared by Martin L. Sanders in his personal capacity. The opinions expressed are the author's own and do not reflect the views of the USPHS, the Department of Health and Human Services, or the United States government.