What PPE should be worn when cleaning mould?

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When cleaning mould, protecting yourself from spores and irritants is essential because mould can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract as it becomes airborne during cleanup.

Gloves shield your skin from contact with mould and cleaning agents, preventing irritation or dermatitis. Eye protection stops spores or splashes from reaching the eyes, reducing the risk of irritation or injury. A dust mask provides filtration for inhaled particulates, helping limit exposure to mould spores released during cleaning. In more contaminated situations, a tighter respirator would offer even greater protection, but at minimum the combination of gloves, eye protection, and a mask helps address the main exposure routes.

Wearing no PPE or relying only on footwear wouldn’t protect these exposure routes, and a respirator alone wouldn’t guard the eyes or skin.