Personal protective equipment, otherwise known as PPE, is one of the most vital tools used by trauma cleaning services. As a professional cleaner, they go the extra mile to ensure that each contaminated site is restored to its original state using the latest cleaning methods and techniques in compliance with government regulations. After job completion, the site will not only be odor free but also clear of any grisly reminders. 

In the course of completing this project, these experts are exposed to lots of dangers which include risk of being infected by bloodborne pathogens, potential diseases and other biohazards. That’s why all professional trauma cleaning services with a great reputation comply strictly with the OSHA-compliant cleaning methods, which include ensuring that all cleaners wear the right protective gear. 

No doubt, each trauma cleaning situation is different. A trauma cleaning company worth its salt will be better prepared in this regard. It is essential that they have a wide range of protection requirement that suits all kinds of situations and conditions. As a result, the US Department of Health & Human Services has brought about the different level systems of PPE. 

Prior to stating the different levels of protection, it is best to first let you know the basic elements of PPE. These include

  • Respirators: surgical mask, half-mask respirator, N-95 respirator and full-face respirator
  • Hand protection: disposable nitrile gloves, disposable latex gloves, and rubber latex gloves
  • Skin protection: Full body suits made up of polyester, cotton, flame-resistant and a blend of cotton and polyester
  • Eye protection: safety goggles and face shield

The Different PPE Levels

Level 1

This is the highest level of protection and it is used for cleaning tasks with a high concentration of contaminants. The equipment required in this case include

  • Respiratory which include full-face, self-contain breathing system. 
  • Skin/face: The use of a hamzat suit that even the most corrosive of chemicals can’t harm. Hard hat under the hamzat suit for additional protection
  • Gloves made from chemical resistant materials
  • Extremely protective footwear that are resistant to the most corrosive chemicals

Level 2

For this level, experts in trauma cleaning services will need the following 

  • Respiratory which include full-face, self-contain breathing system
  • All necessary tools required to protect the face and skin entirely. This may include coveralls, splash unit, hard hat under suit, chemical resistant suit with hood, chemical resistant gloves and full face shield.
  • Chemical resistant, sturdy footwear

Level 3

This is used for not so severe cleaning site. However, you still need adequate protection. These include

  • Half mask or air purifying respirator
  • Chemical resistant splash unit and overalls. Other tools for face and skin include chemical resistant gloves and face shield with goggles
  • The footwear must be sturdy with disposable boot covers

Level 4

Depending on the situation, this is the least PPE level of all and it comes in handy as well for protection. 

  • Use of mask
  • Safety glasses, optional hard hat, overalls, and latex glove will protect the skin and face
  • Sturdy footwear with steel toe

 

PPE is designed to not only protect technicians offering trauma cleaning service but also the general public and the surrounding environment.