What should be done with clothing removed from the body after OC exposure?

• A. Bag and tag removed items.
• B. Wash and return the clothing to the subject.
• C. Burn the clothing.
• D. Store separately without labeling.

Answer: (D)

Handling clothing after OC exposure centers on preserving any potential evidence and preventing residue from spreading or contaminating other items. Storing the removed clothing separately without labeling is best because it keeps the item isolated and neutral, reducing the risk of cross-contamination and avoiding premature documentation that could complicate chain-of-custody procedures. This approach ensures the clothing can be processed properly by investigators later, without introducing bias or mixing it with other items prematurely. Washing the clothing would remove or relocate OC residue, destroying evidence, while burning would destroy the item entirely. Bagging and tagging too early can also introduce identifiers or mix the item with other evidence in ways that complicate later handling.