The Right Way to Wear and Remove PPE

A personal protective equipment (PPE) kit typically consists of a face mask, a gown, a pair of goggles or a face shield and a pair of gloves. PPE is the first line of defence against the novel coronavirus. The use of PPE depends on the level of protection the wearer requires. Healthcare workers treating COVID-19 patients are at a high risk of contracting the disease and therefore wear the full range. Air passengers are sometimes encouraged to wear gowns, face shields and masks, while restaurant staff typically wear face masks and occasionally gloves. We explain how to wear and remove each item of PPE.

Wearing your PPE

Step 1: Preparation

Begin by sanitising your hands thoroughly. Then, gather all the necessary PPE items.

Step 2: Wear your gown

Gowns are meant to protect the wearer from contact with infectious droplets and germs. They help them prevent the spread of microorganisms that could harm vulnerable patients. While putting on the gown, make sure you cover your torso from your neck to your knees and from your arms to the end of your wrists. Ensure that it completely covers your back. Then, tie it at the waist.

Step 3: Wear your mask and goggles (or face shield)

Masks prevent infectious or potentially infectious droplets from entering or leaving your nose and mouth. Your mask should completely cover your nose and mouth. Secure the elastic bands over your head or around your ears. The mask should extend from the ridge of your nose to your chin and must fit comfortably. Then, wear your goggles or face shield. Ensure that they are fastened correctly.

Step 4: Wear your gloves

While wearing your gloves, extend them to cover the sleeve of the gown. Check if your PPE completely covers your body. Remember to limit your contact with surfaces. Do not touch your face. If your gloves are torn, sanitise or wash your hands before donning a new pair.

Removing your PPE

Step 1: Remove your gown and gloves

Pull the tie to break it. Then, hold the front of your gown and pull it away from your body. As you do this, roll it inside-out into a bundle and peel off your gloves simultaneously. Place the gown and the gloves into a waste container. Sanitise your hands.

Step 2: Remove your goggles/face shield

Before this step, put on a new pair of gloves since your goggles or face shield are likely to be contaminated. Do not touch the front. Remove it from the back by lifting the headbands. If either your goggles or face mask is reusable, clean it thoroughly by using a certified disinfectant wipe. If it is non-reusable, dispose it.

Step 3: Remove your face mask

Before you take off your mask, remove your gloves and once again sanitise your hands. Then pull your mask off by holding the elastic bands at the back without touching the front. Dispose it and then clean your hands once more.

Proper use of PPE is vital to protect yourself and those around you from COVID-19. So be sure to wear and dispose of it correctly. Further, it is essential to use quality PPE. To know more about this, you can read our earlier blog here.