Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) SLC Practice Exam

What is an essential precaution before donning protective gear?

1. Eating a meal

2. Cleaning hands

3. Consulting a supervisor

4. Assessing the area

The correct answer is: Cleaning hands

Cleaning hands before donning protective gear is a crucial precaution because it helps to minimize the risk of transferring contaminants to the gear. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is designed to shield the wearer from hazards; if the hands are dirty or contaminated, those substances can be inadvertently transferred to the inside of the protective gear, which could compromise its effectiveness. This practice aligns with infection control principles and helps to ensure that the PPE provides the intended protection. In high-risk environments, such as healthcare settings or hazardous material handling areas, the cleanliness of the hands is paramount to preventing the introduction of pathogens or harmful substances. Other options, while potentially important in certain circumstances, do not specifically address the immediate concern of contamination associated with putting on protective gear. For instance, eating a meal is unrelated to the protective measure required at the time of donning equipment. Consulting a supervisor may be important for specific instructions or situational awareness, but it doesn't directly mitigate contamination. Similarly, assessing the area may be relevant for understanding potential hazards but doesn’t directly affect the integrity of the protective gear itself.