What is the proper doffing sequence for PPE after exposure?

• A. Remove outer PPE, then inner clothing/SCBA; remove gloves last; perform decontamination.
• B. Remove inner clothing first, then outer PPE; remove gloves last; perform decontamination.
• C. Remove gloves first, then outer PPE; immediately discard.
• D. Doffing sequence varies; there is no standard.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is to prevent self-contamination by removing the most contaminated items first and keeping your skin protected as you go. Start with the outermost PPE because its surfaces are most likely to be contaminated, and take it off in a way that contains any fallout on the outside. Next, remove the inner clothing or SCBA—the layers closest to your body—so you don’t drag contaminants toward your skin. Finally, take off the gloves last; keeping the hands protected during the rest of the doffing reduces the chance of transferring contaminants to other surfaces. After you’re done removing everything, perform decontamination of the skin and exposed areas, as well as the equipment and work surfaces, to remove any residual contamination. This sequence minimizes the risk of spreading contaminants during doffing.