What should be done immediately before handling contaminated items?

Inspecting and documenting the condition of contaminated items before handling them is critical for several reasons. First, conducting an inspection allows for a thorough assessment of the extent of contamination, which is essential for determining the appropriate remediation measures. Documentation serves multiple purposes: it provides a permanent record of the contamination and its potential risks, facilitates communication with team members or other stakeholders about the situation, and helps track the progression of the remediation efforts.

By clearly understanding and recording the condition of the items, technicians can make informed decisions on how to proceed, including whether the items can be cleaned and restored or if they need to be disposed of. This step is vital in the overall process of microbial remediation, helping to ensure that safety protocols are followed, and that any risks to health or the environment are minimized.