What should you do before using an emergency shower?

Before using an emergency shower, removing outer clothing is crucial because it helps to minimize contamination and allows the water to effectively wash away hazardous substances from the skin. When a person is exposed to chemicals or harmful agents, clothing can trap contaminants against the skin, worsening the injury. By removing outer clothing, a person ensures that the affected areas are properly rinsed and that the shower can perform its function effectively, increasing the likelihood of reducing the severity of chemical exposure.

While putting on protective gloves might seem like a precautionary step, it is more important to remove clothing to prevent further contamination during the decontamination process. Calling for help is also critical in emergency situations but should be done after immediate action is taken; first aid measures like using an emergency shower should take priority to protect the individual. Running water over the body first, without removing clothing, may hinder the efficacy of the shower in washing away harmful substances. Thus, the act of stripping affected clothing before using the emergency shower is an essential step in ensuring safety and minimizing harm in an emergency situation.