Which statement about PPE in the laboratory is correct?

• A. PPE is optional when handling compounds
• B. PPE should be worn when working in the lab and removed upon exiting
• C. PPE should be worn but not removed
• D. PPE is required only for hazardous substances

Answer: (B)

Wearing PPE whenever you’re in the lab is about continuous protection from potential exposure. The best practice is to put on the appropriate PPE before you start work and to remove it when you finish, in a designated area, before you leave the lab. This setup keeps contaminants contained—and stops them from riding out into hallways, offices, or home environments. After removing PPE, wash your hands to ensure any residual material isn’t spread.

PPE isn’t optional; even routine tasks can involve splashes, fumes, or skin contact that PPE helps prevent. It’s not accurate to wear PPE during work but never remove it, since transporting contaminants outside the lab defeats the purpose of the protection. And PPE is not only for hazardous substances—any activity with potential exposure or contamination benefits from using protective gear.