PPE Selection for Cleaners — Module 3

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Module 3 of 3

PPE Selection for Cleaners · Module 3

Using, Checking and Disposing of PPE

The right order to put PPE on and take it off, what to check before every use, and the mistakes that leave you exposed.

  • Free taster
  • Module 3 of 3
  • About 5 minutes

Final module of this free taster. This is a short introduction to the topic, not full professional training. For in-depth courses with assessments and certificates, see the CCMTec® Academy.

What you'll learn in this module

  • How to put on and take off PPE correctly (donning and doffing)
  • How to inspect, maintain and dispose of PPE
  • The most common PPE mistakes, and how to avoid them

Putting PPE on and taking it off

PPE put on wrongly protects you less. PPE taken off wrongly can transfer contamination onto your skin or clothes. The order matters.

Putting PPE on

  1. 01

    Apron

    Put the apron on first and tie it securely.

  2. 02

    Mask

    If needed, fit the mask and check the seal.

  3. 03

    Goggles

    If needed, fit goggles after the mask so they sit properly.

  4. 04

    Gloves

    Gloves go on last, pulled over your cuffs so there's no gap at the wrist.

Taking PPE off

  1. 01

    Gloves

    Peel off from the wrist, turning them inside out as you go.

  2. 02

    Apron

    Break the neck strap, pull forward and fold it in on itself without touching the front.

  3. 03

    Goggles and mask

    Remove by the straps from behind, not by touching the front.

  4. 04

    Wash your hands

    Straight away, every time, even though you wore gloves.

Treat the outside of your PPE as contaminated

Avoid touching the outer surfaces as you remove it, and never touch your face while doing so.

Inspection and maintenance

Check PPE before every use. Damaged PPE gives false confidence: it feels protective but may offer little or no real protection.

Gloves

Check for tears, pinholes and signs of breakdown. Throw away if damaged.

Goggles

Check lenses for cracks and scratches. Clean with a suitable lens cleaner, not solvents.

Aprons

Disposable aprons are single-use. Clean and dry reusable aprons between uses.

Footwear

Check soles for wear and replace when the grip goes.

Masks and respirators

Check the seal and filters. Change filters as the manufacturer advises.

Disposal

Disposable PPE contaminated with chemicals or body fluids shouldn't go in general waste. Follow your site's waste procedure and COSHH assessment. For chemicals, Section 13 of the SDS gives disposal advice. On sites with a clinical waste stream, such as healthcare, use the bags provided for contaminated PPE.

Common PPE mistakes

Mistake 1

Wearing the same gloves all day

Gloves break down with use and chemical contact. Change them regularly.

Mistake 2

A dust mask for chemical vapours

Dust masks don't filter vapours. Use the correct respirator.

Mistake 3

Pulling gloves off by the fingertips

This puts your skin in contact with the contaminated outer surface.

Mistake 4

Reusing disposable PPE

Disposable means single-use. Reusing it spreads contamination.

Mistake 5

Skipping handwashing

Gloves aren't 100% impermeable and can have tiny holes. Always wash your hands.

You've finished PPE Selection for Cleaners

You now know how to choose, use, check and dispose of PPE properly. Nice work.

Ready to go further?

This micro-course is a taster. Our full Academy courses are built for UK cleaning professionals, with practical guidance, assessments and certificates.

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Disclaimer: This micro-course is a general introduction to PPE selection for cleaners and is not a substitute for full professional training. Always follow your employer's procedures and current HSE guidance for your workplace.

PPE Selection for Cleaners · Free Micro-Course · CCMTec® Academy · Reviewed October 2026