PPE Selection Guidelines
The following table is designed to help you select the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for typical work tasks that may involve a risk of exposure to blood or OPIM. However, these guidelines are general recommendations since PPE requirements can vary depending on the job task or exposure situation.
Typical Task | Hand Washing | Gloves | Gown | Safety Eyewear* | Face Mask** | Face Shield*** | Shoe Covers |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Handling blood/OPIM-soiled equipment, dressings, and bandages | M | M | A | A | A | A | A |
Treating medical emergencies | M | M | A | M | A | A | A |
Drawing blood for laboratory tests | M | M | A | A | A | A | A |
Use of sharps |
M | M | A | A | A | A | A |
Routine dressing changes |
M | M | A | A | A | A | A |
Cleaning-up spills of blood/OPIM |
M | M | A | M | A | A | A |
Giving injections |
M | A | A | A | A | A | A |
* Safety eyewear should include either chemical splash goggles or ANSI-approved safety glasses with solid side shields.
** Facemask may include one- or two-strap facemasks designed to protect the mouth and mucous membranes from possible splashes.
*** Eye protection must be used in conjunction with face shields. DO NOT wear a face shield without appropriate eye protection.