What action is required before removing a respirator?

The action required before removing a respirator focuses on ensuring safety and hygiene during the process. Wiping down surfaces is important because it helps eliminate any contaminants that may have settled on surfaces while wearing the respirator, thus minimizing the risk of exposure to hazardous materials when the respirator is taken off. This practice is particularly crucial in environments where air quality may be compromised or where hazardous substances are present.

While ensuring that filters are clean, washing hands, and removing gloves are all important actions in the context of personal protective equipment, they do not directly address the critical step of ensuring the area around the respirator is safe from contamination. By prioritizing the cleanliness of surfaces, the risk of inadvertently touching contaminated areas or materials during the respirator removal process is significantly reduced. This helps maintain a safer working environment overall.