What safety gear should be worn when exiting the work area towards the shower area?

The appropriate choice in this scenario is that full protective clothing should be worn when exiting a work area, particularly in environments where asbestos is present. Proper safety gear is essential for protecting workers from exposure to hazardous materials.

When leaving a contaminated work area, it's critical to ensure that all contaminants, including asbestos fibers, are contained and do not spread to other areas, especially when transitioning to a shower or decontamination area. Wearing full protective clothing minimizes the risk of carrying asbestos fibers on clothing or skin, thereby preventing cross-contamination.

Using just a respirator, while it protects against inhaling harmful particles, does not address the need for full protection of the body, as exposure can occur through skin contact or through clothing that has not been properly decontaminated. Other options, like having no gear or only wearing boots and gloves, also fall short in providing comprehensive protection against the risks associated with working with asbestos.

In summary, wearing full protective clothing is crucial for safety when transitioning from a hazardous work site to a decontamination area, ensuring that all potential exposure routes are covered.