How to Reuse PPE

Personal protective equipment (PPE) can be expensive considering the limited use you get from it. PPE is classified into three groups. Disposable PPE is single use. Limited-use equipment can be used several times before disposal is necessary. Durable PPE can be reused until worn out or damaged. PPE must be inspected before, during and after use to determine its fitness for use. Contaminants can be physical, chemical or biological. Cleaning and decontamination procedures must remove the specific contaminant contacted. Decontamination methods can be physical, chemical or preventative. Physical decontamination includes washing, scraping and brushing, absorption and desorption. Chemical methods include neutralization, disinfection, chemical stripping, adsorption and sterilization. Preventive methods of extending PPE use include minimizing contact and using disposable or limited-use PPE, or covering durable PPE with sacrificial overlayers.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic garbage cans
• Plastic garbage bags
• Water
• Soap
• Sprayers
• Long-handled brushes
• Water containment equipment
• Disposable towels
• Testing equipment

Instructions

How to Reuse PPE

1. Remove disposable and sacrificial PPE and place it in plastic garbage bags or cans.

2. Brush PPE while spraying with soap and water solution. Collect excess liquid in a containment area such as a tank or disposable kiddie pool.

3. Rinse PPE with clean water. Rinse clothing several times, starting at the top of the equipment to be sure all cleaning solution has been removed. Use disposable towels to remove excess water after thorough rinsing.

4. Inspect PPE for damage. This includes cuts, abrasions, punctures and discoloration. Discolored areas may indicate that contaminants have permeated or degraded the PPE material. Removal of chemicals that have permeated PPE fabric may require specialized treatment by the manufacturer or a manufacturer's representative. Degraded material may require removal and replacement by qualified personnel.

5. Place all disposable, damaged and irreparable PPE in plastic bags and cans for off-site disposal before leaving the decontamination area.

6. Inspect all PPE destined for reuse for degradation, stains and discoloration. Perform wipe tests of inner and outer surfaces for laboratory analysis. Monitoring devices that include detection tubes, radiation monitors, pH testers and photo-ionization detectors (PIDs) can be used on site to verify successful decontamination before moving PPE from the site.

7. Take material samples or send PPE for off-site testing, repair and patching. After certifying successful decontamination, the PPE should be visual inspected before being placed back into service.

Tips & Warnings

• Use disposable PPE to keep gross contamination off more durable PPE worn underneath.

• Use manufacturer-trained or -approved decontamination services for off-site treatment of PPE.

• Follow the PPE manufacturer's directions for cleaning and decontamination at all times.

• Never reuse disposable PPE.

References

• Hazardous Material Response Handbook, 3rd Edition, L. Charles Smeby, Jr. Ed., National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, MA. 1997
• OSHA Hazardous Materials Standards

Resources

• University of Kentucky Pesticide Applicators Training