During a regulated waste spill, what PPE is appropriate to don before cleanup?

• A. No PPE required
• B. Gloves only
• C. Gloves, gown or lab coat, eye/face protection, and appropriate footwear, with additional PPE for sharps or spills
• D. Respirator only

Answer: (C)

Protecting yourself from exposure during a regulated waste spill requires full barrier protection before you start cleanup. You should don gloves to shield your hands, a gown or lab coat to protect skin and clothing, eye and face protection to guard mucous membranes from splashes, and appropriate footwear to keep feet protected and prevent tracking contamination. If sharps are present or the spill is extensive or likely to splash, add extra PPE as needed for those higher-risk elements. This comprehensive combination is essential because it covers all potential routes of exposure, not just one body area. Wearing only gloves, or gloves plus a respirator alone, leaves other areas unprotected and could lead to contamination or injury.