What should be done if PPE is contaminated with hazardous materials or bodily fluids?

When personal protective equipment (PPE) is contaminated with hazardous materials or bodily fluids, it is crucial to ensure that it is properly cleaned to prevent any health risks. Specialized cleaning by trained personnel is important because they have the knowledge and equipment needed to decontaminate the PPE safely and effectively. This process usually follows specific protocols to ensure that no hazardous residues remain, which could pose a risk to the user or others.

Regular detergent used in typical laundry does not guarantee the removal of hazardous substances, and cleaning by the wearer may not be sufficient to ensure thorough decontamination. Immediate disposal may be necessary in certain severe cases, but in many situations, the goal is to clean and safely reuse the PPE while adhering to safety protocols. Therefore, utilizing specialized cleaning services is the most effective approach to managing contaminated PPE.