What PPE is recommended when preparing to deploy OC spray?

• A. Eye protection (goggles or face shield), gloves, and standard duty gear; additional respirator or mask per policy if required.
• B. Open-toed sandals and casual clothing.
• C. No PPE is needed.
• D. Full hazmat suit is always required.

Answer: (A)

When preparing to deploy OC spray, the focus is on protecting the eyes, skin, and respiratory system, while following agency policy. Eye protection such as goggles or a face shield shields against direct contact and against wind-blown spray that can cause eye irritation or injury. Gloves protect the hands from chemical exposure during handling, application, and decontamination. Standard duty gear provides reliable, appropriate coverage for the situation without adding unnecessary or impractical equipment. Some policies require additional respiratory protection if there’s a higher risk of inhalation or if the environment could spread the spray in ways that could irritate the lungs, so a respirator or mask may be specified per policy. Open-toed footwear and casual clothing offer no protection against chemical exposure and are unsuitable. A full hazmat suit is far beyond what is typically required for OC spray deployment and would impede mobility and operations in most scenarios.