What step must be done before washing turnout gear?

• A. Separating the outer shell and liner after gross decon
• B. Remove from service
• C. Soak in bleach
• D. Dry gear completely

Answer: (A)

Separating the outer shell from the liner after gross decon is the key step before washing turnout gear because the gear is built in layered components that each need different handling. The shell, moisture barrier, and thermal liner have distinct materials and cleaning needs, so washing them separately ensures detergents and sanitizers reach all fabrics, reduces the chance of cross-contamination between layers, and helps prevent damage during the wash. It also makes it easier to inspect each layer for wear or damage before reassembly.

Other options aren’t the pre-wash step: removing from service is a policy action that may occur if contamination is suspected, but it isn’t the action that prepares gear for washing; soaking in bleach is not standard practice and can degrade turnout fabrics; drying gear completely is done after washing, not before.