What should be removed in the equipment room when exiting containment?

When exiting containment, it is critical to maintain safety and prevent contamination of clean areas. The correct choice emphasizes that individuals should ideally keep their respirator on to ensure continued protection from airborne contaminants until they are in a safe environment. This is important because respirators are designed to filter out hazardous materials, including asbestos fibers, which can pose serious health risks if inhaled.

In contrast, it is essential to remove personal items, including shoes, to prevent any contamination that could have occurred while in the contained area. The rationale for removing everything except for the respirator underscores the importance of protecting the airways while ensuring that any clothing, gear, or personal items that could harbor asbestos fibers are adequately dealt with to maintain a clean and safe environment outside of the containment area. This practice aligns with safety regulations and protocols aimed at preventing asbestos exposure.