What personal protective equipment should be used when collecting contraband?

Using universal precautions and personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential when collecting contraband for several reasons. This approach ensures the safety of the officer and reduces the risk of exposure to potential contaminants or harmful substances. Universal precautions apply to all situations and involve treating all items, surfaces, and fluids as potentially infectious or hazardous, thereby promoting a proactive form of protection.

When collecting contraband, officers may encounter a variety of materials, some of which could be hazardous, such as drugs, biological materials, or sharp objects. Employing a comprehensive set of PPE—such as gloves, masks, goggles, and gowns—provides a multi-layered defense against contamination, injury, or exposure to toxins. This practice is not just about personal safety; it also emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of evidence and the overall crime scene.

The other options suggest inadequate protection or limiting safety measures to just one type of equipment, which does not align with the best practices for officer safety and health. Thus, the choice of universal precautions and a variety of personal protective equipment underscores a commitment to safety and evidence integrity in potentially hazardous situations.