When removing chemical protective clothing, which item should be taken off last?

When removing chemical protective clothing, the Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) should be taken off last to ensure the safety of the responder. The rationale behind this practice is that the SCBA provides the essential respiratory protection needed in a contaminated environment. Removing it last minimizes the risk of inhaling hazardous contaminants that may still be present in the air after other protective gear has been removed.

In contrast to the SCBA, items such as gloves, goggles, and face shields can be removed earlier in the decontamination process once there is a lower risk of exposure. This sequence prioritizes respiratory protection, which is critical for preventing respiratory exposure to hazardous materials. The practice of removing the SCBA last is part of the decontamination protocol, ensuring that the wearer is not exposed to airborne contaminants after potentially having been in contact with dangerous substances.