Which of the following is a typical PPE item used to protect staff from exposure in a jail?

• A. Boots
• B. Gloves
• C. Sunglasses
• D. Belts

Answer: (B)

PPE to protect staff from exposure in a jail focuses on creating barriers between the worker and hazards that can be spread through touch. Gloves are a staple because hands are the most likely point of contact with inmates, bodily fluids, contaminated surfaces, and cleaning chemicals. Wearing disposable gloves provides a barrier that reduces the risk of skin contact, infection, and cross-contamination during medical aid, cleaning, or handling potentially contaminated items. They’re used across many tasks and should be changed when switching tasks or if they become contaminated.

Boots protect the feet but don’t guard the hands against exposure, sunglasses aren’t the appropriate barrier for handling contaminants, and belts don’t serve as protective equipment for exposure.