What is the proper protocol when encountering suspicious substances?

• A. Report Suspicious Substances To Supervisors And Law Enforcement
• B. Open And Inspect Immediately
• C. Dispose Of In Regular Trash
• D. Hide From Inmates

Answer: (A)

When you encounter a suspicious substance, the proper protocol is to report it to your supervisor and law enforcement so trained personnel can assess the risk and handle the substance safely. This protects staff and inmates from possible exposure, prevents contamination, and preserves evidence for any investigation. Do not touch, open, sample, or dispose of the material yourself; secure the area, follow your agency’s incident reporting procedures, and document what you observed (location, appearance, odor, container, time). Let responders take the necessary steps, including potential isolation, use of PPE, and maintaining the chain of custody. Hiding from inmates or attempting to dispose of it yourself would create safety and legal problems and could escalate the danger.