PPE Selection for Cleaners — Module 3
What you'll learn in this module
- How to put on and remove PPE correctly (donning and doffing)
- How to inspect, maintain, and dispose of PPE
- The most common PPE mistakes — and how to avoid them
Donning and Doffing PPE Correctly
Putting PPE on incorrectly reduces its effectiveness. Removing it incorrectly can transfer contamination to your skin or clothing. The correct order matters.
Putting PPE on (donning): Apron first, then gloves. If using goggles and a mask, fit the mask before the goggles. Ensure gloves overlap the apron cuffs to prevent gaps.
Removing PPE (doffing): Remove gloves first by peeling from the wrist, turning inside out as you go. Remove apron by pulling forward from the neck without touching the front. Wash hands immediately after removal — even if you wore gloves.
Inspection and Maintenance
PPE must be inspected before every use. Damaged PPE provides false confidence — it may feel protective but offer little or no actual protection.
- Gloves: Check for tears, pinholes, and degradation. Discard if damaged.
- Goggles: Check lenses for cracks and scratches. Clean with appropriate solution — not solvents.
- Aprons: Disposable aprons are single-use only. Reusable aprons must be cleaned and dried between uses.
- Footwear: Check soles for wear. Replace when grip is reduced.
- Masks and respirators: Check seal integrity and filter condition. Replace filters per manufacturer guidance.
Disposal
Disposable PPE contaminated with chemicals or biological material must be disposed of correctly — not in general waste. Check your COSHH assessment and local waste regulations. In most cases, contaminated PPE should be double-bagged and labelled before disposal.
Common PPE Mistakes
| Mistake | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Wearing the same gloves all day | Gloves degrade with use and chemical exposure. Change regularly. |
| Using a dust mask for chemical vapours | Dust masks do not filter vapours. Use the correct respirator. |
| Removing gloves by pulling from the fingertips | This exposes your skin to the contaminated outer surface. |
| Reusing disposable PPE | Disposable means single-use. Reuse transfers contamination. |
| Not washing hands after removing gloves | Gloves are not 100% impermeable. Handwashing is always required. |
✅ You have completed Micro-Course 4: PPE Selection for Cleaners
Well done — you now understand how to select, use, maintain, and dispose of PPE correctly as a cleaning professional.Create a free CCMTec account to track your learning and access your completion certificate.