Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are established that maximize worker protection. For example, proper procedures for dressing prior to entering the Exclusion Zone will minimize the potential for contaminants to bypass the protective clothing and escape decontamination. In general, all fasteners should be used (i.e., zippers fully closed, all buttons used, all snaps closed, etc.). Gloves and boots should be tucked under the sleeves and legs of outer clothing, and hoods (if not attached) should be worn outside the collar. Another pair of tough outer gloves is often worn over the sleeves. All junctures should be taped to prevent contaminants from getting inside the gloves, boots, and jackets (or suits, if one-piece construction).

Prior to each use, the personal protective equipment (PPE) is checked to ensure that is contains no cuts or punctures that could expose workers to wastes or contaminants. Similarly, any injuries to the skin surface, such as cuts and scratches, may enhance the potential for chemicals or infectious agents that directly contact the worker’s skin to penetrate into the body. Particular care should be taken to protect these areas. Workers with large areas of damaged skin should be kept from working on site until the skin heals.

All personnel are trained in the Standard Operating Procedures for minimizing contact and maximizing worker protection, and these procedures are enforced throughout site operations. A site safety officer is assigned to each project to ensure that proper SOPs are followed.