When should turnout gear be cleaned after exposure to a hazmat incident?

Turnout gear should be cleaned after approval from the safety officer to ensure that the cleaning process is conducted in a controlled and safe manner. The safety officer is responsible for assessing the situation, including the level of contamination and the types of hazardous materials involved. This oversight helps to determine the appropriate decontamination methods and timing, ensuring that the gear is properly handled and cleaned without compromising the health and safety of the firefighter or others.

Cleaning immediately after use, once home, or after a specific period like 24 hours could lead to improper handling of contaminated gear or additional exposure risks. Therefore, waiting for the safety officer's direction guarantees an informed response tailored to the specific incident and its potential hazards.