What actions should the medicolegal death investigator take after exiting the residence or building where the death occurred?
After exiting the structure, place items that were likely exposed to body fluids (e.g., blood, saliva, feces) in biohazard bags or waste containers and follow state and local guidelines for disposal of this waste. Carefully remove PPE following CDC recommended doffing procedures and then perform hand hygiene with alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains 60 to 95% alcohol. Put on a new pair of disposable medical examination gloves and clean and disinfect any non-porous surfaces that were potentially contaminated during the investigation, including clipboards, paperwork (consider laminating prior to use), electronic devices (e.g., laptops or cameras), pens or pencils, door handles, and waste containers or biohazard bags at the doffing station. See Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-approved disinfectants for use against SARS-CoV-2. Wear any other PPE recommended by the manufacturer of the disinfectant before applying. Clean and disinfect surfaces of any reusable PPE (e.g., goggles) by following the PPE manufacturer’s recommendations. Before departing the location, perform hand hygiene again.