🔙 Back to Basics: Proper PPE Usage and Disposal Tips Everyone Should Know
In today’s healthcare and industrial landscape, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) has become more than a necessity — it’s a frontline defense. But without correct use and disposal, even the best PPE is ineffective.
At SteriAttire, we believe protection starts with education. Here’s a return to the basics every professional should review:
🧠 1. Understand the Right PPE for Your Role
Choose PPE based on your risk exposure:
- Low-risk areas: Disposable masks, gloves
- Moderate-risk zones (clinics, labs): Surgical gowns, N95 masks, goggles
- High-risk zones (ICU, isolation wards): Full-body coveralls, face shields, double gloves, shoe covers
💡 Use only PPE that meets ISO, CE, or FDA standards.
🧤 2. Donning PPE (Putting It On)
Correct order prevents contamination:
- Wash or sanitize hands
- Wear gown or coverall
- Mask placement
- Goggles or face shield
- Gloves (last, over sleeves)
👉 Avoid touching your face or adjusting PPE once worn.
⚠️ 3. Common PPE Mistakes to Avoid
- Wearing masks under the nose
- Reusing disposable PPE
- Pocketing used PPE
- Not changing gloves between patients
These missteps drastically reduce protection.
🛑 4. Doffing PPE (Removing It)
Contamination often happens during removal. Follow this order:
- Remove gloves (inside-out)
- Remove gown
- Hand hygiene
- Remove goggles or face shield (from behind)
- Remove mask
- Wash hands again thoroughly
💡 Tip: Practice removal under supervision or in front of a mirror.
🗑️ 5. PPE Disposal
Proper disposal protects both people and the planet:
- Use color-coded bins (e.g., yellow for infectious waste)
- Do not use general trash
- Double-bag PPE for disposal
- Follow your local biomedical waste guidelines
♻️ Reusable PPE is eco-friendly when properly decontaminated.
💬 Final Thoughts: Protection Is a Habit
PPE is only effective when used correctly and responsibly. At SteriAttire, we offer not just products, but empowerment through knowledge. Let’s make safety second nature.
Stay safe. Stay smart. Stay protected with SteriAttire.