Using your PPE

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is the equipment needed to protect you and other healthcare workers from becoming infected with coronavirus. Please ensure you consult your PPE Checklist when deciding what PPE to use in which situation.

TYPES OF PPE

Face masks (including N95 surgical masks, Type I and Type II masks)
Face shields
Hand sanitisers
Gloves (including latex gloves and nitrile gloves – less prone to allergic reactions)
Gowns
Aprons

PPE Checklist

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Donning and Doffing your PPE

To ensure you protect yourself as best you can from being infected with the virus, there is a recommended sequence in which you should put your PPE on (donning) and take it off (doffing). Following a correct doffing procedure is especially crucial – it is the most important step in preventing infection transmission. When you remove your PPE, assume that there is some virus on your PPE and so remove it in a way that will protect your clothing, skin and mucous membranes from contamination. If you suspect that you have been in contact with someone with Covid, be extra careful and sanitise your hands after each piece of equipment that you remove.

Putting your PPE on

Putting your PPE off

Using Your Mask

It is important to use and dispose of your mask correctly. This will help reduce the risk of transmission. When using your mask remember to:

Place mask carefully over your mouth and nose and tie securely to minimise any gaps between your face and the mask.
Avoid touching the inside of the mask while putting it on and taking it off. Then avoid touching the mask when you are wearing it.
Remove the mask by untying the bands.
Wash your hands and wash your mask with soap and hot water.
Do not reuse single-use masks. Throw them away immediately or keep them in a sealed plastic bag until you can throw them away in a bin.
Make sure you change your mask as soon as it becomes dirty or wet.

How do I use the Type 1 Mask Kit?

Can PPE be re-used?

Only reuse when supplies are very limited.
Reuse of PPE is still preferable to having no PPE and remains a major challenge all over the world.
Aprons and gloves should be replaced between handling clients if in contact with clients.
Paper masks can be used for 8 hours during in-field screening but should be discarded if they become dirty or wet.

How should you handle your uniform or work clothes?

When you get home, place your uniform or work clothes in a washing basket immediately. Wash your hands after removing your clothes. Wash the clothes in hot water if possible (60°C). Ensure your cell phone has been cleaned.

I am fortunate to be a COVID-19 survivor and this would not be possible without the care I’ve received from the health care professionals. They are indeed at the front lines in the fight against this disease and I’m so grateful to know that they are there to care for us. Brave, courageous and fearless heroes.

— Chandra (Cape Town)