Where must PPE be put on when handling evidence?

• A. Outside of the crime scene.
• B. Before entering the crime scene.
• C. During collection of evidence only.
• D. PPE is not required.

Answer: (A)

Don PPE before stepping into the scene. Putting on gloves, a gown or coverall, eye/face protection, and a mask before you enter creates a barrier that prevents you from contaminating evidence and protects you from hazards. Donning outside the boundary (or at the very threshold) ensures any contaminants you carry on your clothing or skin aren’t introduced into the crime scene, and it helps maintain the integrity of the evidence from the very first contact. After you’ve entered and begun handling items, keep PPE in place and change it if it becomes contaminated, then doff properly at the exit to avoid cross‑contamination and perform hand hygiene.