What is the recommended action for officers when dealing with contaminated items?

The recommended action for officers when dealing with contaminated items is to clean and disinfect before disposal. This practice is essential for maintaining safety and preventing the spread of pathogens. By properly cleaning and disinfecting items, officers can reduce the potential risk of contamination to themselves and others.

Handling contaminated items without appropriate cleaning could lead to cross-contamination, putting both the officers and the general public at risk. Immediate disposal without cleaning could also fail to address the hazards associated with the contamination, potentially leading to further issues, such as environmental contamination. Leaving contaminated items for sanitation staff is not advisable in situations where immediate action is required, as it may delay necessary precautions and allow the contamination to persist.

Overall, cleaning and disinfecting ensures that potentially harmful substances are managed adequately and safely, aligning with health and safety protocols critical in law enforcement and correctional settings.