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How to use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Using standard PPE

Donning - putting on your PPE

Doffing - taking off your PPE

How to use PPE in a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 case.

Donning - putting on your PPE

Doffing - taking off your PPE

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Using Disposable Gloves

Follow these steps when using disposable gloves:

  • Wash hands before and after using gloves.
  • Change gloves between tasks when supporting the same person.
  • Gloves are single use only.
  • Gloves should be removed by pulling down from the wrist effectively. turning it inside out as it travels from the wrist to the fingers.

Using Eye Protection

  • This equipment shields the eyes and there are two main times when they should be used:
  • Eye protection should be considered single use only.
  • Please follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for using the eye protection.
  • Remove the eye protection using the earpieces only.
  • Dispose of the eye protection immediately after use.
  • Wash hands immediately after disposing of eye protection. 

Additional information regarding preventing and managing exposure to infectious diseases can be found at our Infection Management Guide.

Using Disposable Aprons

Aprons should be worn to prevent clothes from being soiled when you are performing an activity where there is a risk of splashing body fluids. Follow these steps when using disposable aprons:

  • Aprons should be worn for the duration of your support shift.
  • When using an apron ensure that you are ‘bare below the elbow.’
  • Sleeves should be rolled up or clothing with sleeves should be removed. before putting on the apron. If you are unable to cover your sleeve, ensure you remove and wash clothing as soon as you arrive home after your shift.
  • Remove the apron immediately after use rolling it up with the potentially soiled side on the inside. If it is soiled, place in a plastic bag before disposing.
  • Wash your hands immediately after disposing of the apron.

Using Masks 

Masks shield the mouth and nose and should be used when someone has been diagnosed with or is suspected of having COVID-19 or another infection with droplet or airborne transmission e.g. influenza. Both yourself and the person you support need to wear a mask.

Masks provide protection against spray and droplets of saliva.

Masks need to be single use and are only effective when fitted correctly and used in conjunction with safe hand washing techniques.

  • Masks should sit under your chin and cover your nose.
  • Please follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for using the mask.
  • Avoid touching the mask whilst using it.
  • It is important to remove the mask by holding the ties only and dispose of it immediately. 
  • Wash your hands after disposal.

Using Respirator masks P2 (N95)

Respirator masks shield the mouth and nose the same way general/surgical masks do. The difference is that they provide additional protection when there is a greater risk of droplet exposure. 

  • Respirators provide an additional level of protection than masks.
  • Please follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for using the respirator.
  • Respirators are single use.
  • Respirators should cover your mouth and nose making sure there are no gaps between your face and the respirator. 
  • Avoid touching the respirator whilst using it.
  • It is important to remove the respirator by holding the ties only and dispose of it immediately. 
  • Wash your hands after disposal.