What is the recommended procedure for handling contaminated PPE after exposure to AFFF?

• A. Remove PPE correctly, seal in a labeled bag, wash exposed skin with soap and water, and follow decontamination procedures per SOP.
• B. Douse all equipment with water and continue work as usual.
• C. Place PPE in a storage cabinet without labeling.
• D. Wash hands only and reuse PPE without decontamination.

Answer: (A)

Handling contaminated PPE after AFFF exposure centers on preventing secondary exposure and ensuring proper containment and cleanup. The recommended approach is to remove the PPE using a proper doffing technique to minimize contact with contaminated surfaces, seal the gear in a labeled bag to contain residues and enable proper tracking for decontamination or disposal, wash any exposed skin with soap and water to remove residues, and then follow the decontamination procedures specified in the standard operating procedure. This sequence protects you from retaining contaminants on skin or clothing, prevents spreading residues to other areas, and ensures consistent, compliant cleanup of both gear and work environment.

The other options don’t fit because they allow continued exposure or improper containment: simply dousing equipment and continuing work can spread contamination; placing PPE in an unlabeled storage cabinet fails to contain residues or indicate its status; washing hands only and reusing contaminated PPE bypasses necessary decontamination and creates ongoing risk of exposure.