Crime Scene Investigation: PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Hand Protection : Hand protection should be selected on the basis of the type of material being handled and the hazard or hazards associated with the material. Detailed information can be obtained from the manufacturer. Nitrile gloves provide protection from acids, alkaline solutions, hydraulic fluid, photographic solutions, fuels, aromatics, and some solvents. It is also cut resistant. Neoprene gloves offer protection from acids, solvents, alkalies, bases, and most refrigerants. Polyvinyl chloride is resistant to alkalies, oils, and low concentrations of nitric and chromic acids. Latex or natural rubber gloves resist mild acids, caustic materials, and germicides. Latex will degrade if exposed to gasoline or kerosene and prolonged exposure to excessive heat or direct sunlight. Latex gloves can degrade, losing their integrity. Some people are allergic to latex and can avoid irritation by wearing nitrile or neoprene gloves. Gloves should be inspected for holes, punctures, and tears before use. Rings, jewellery, or other sharp objects that can cause punctures should be removed. Double gloving may be necessary when working with heavily contaminated materials; double gloving is also helpful if “clean” hands are needed occasion ally. If a glove is torn or punctured, replace it. Remove disposable gloves by carefully peeling them off by the cuffs, slowly turning them inside out. Discard disposable gloves in designated containers and, it should go without saying, do not reuse them.
Eye Protection : Safety glasses and goggles should be worn when handling biological, chemical, and radioactive materials. Face shields can offer better protection when there is a potential for splashing or flying debris. Face shields alone are not sufficient eye protection; they must be worn in combination with safety glasses. Contact lens users should wear safety glasses or goggles to protect their eyes. Protective eyewear is available for those with prescription glasses and should be worn over them. Foot Protection
Shoes that completely cover and protect the foot are essential – no sandals or sneakers! Protective footwear should be used at crime scenes when there is a danger of foot injuries due to falling or rolling objects or to objects piercing the sole and when feet are exposed to electrical hazards. In some situations, shoe covers can provide protection to shoes and prevent contamination to the perimeter and areas outside the crime scene.
Other : Protection Certain crime scenes, such as bombings and clandestine drug laboratories, can produce noxious fumes requiring respiratory protection. In certain crime scenes, such as bombings or fires where structural damage can occur, protective helmets should be worn.
