Measures taken to reduce task load during doffing (task load parameters derived from Hart and Steveland’s NASA Task Load Index)26
| Sn | Task load | Measures to reduce task load |
| 1 | Mental demand | Each step of the doffing was put up as a poster on the wall in a unidirectional flow. Visual prompts were provided on the floor. Verbal prompts were provided by an observer stationed outside the doffing room. All bins that were meant to collect used N95 masks and coveralls were labelled. |
| 2 | Physical demand | Grab bars were provided as a balance aid for removing shoe covers. Stools were also provided. Foot-operated trash bins were provided near each doffing step. Full length mirrors were provided to enable visual inspection. No touch ABHR dispensers were provided within easy reach wherever required. The shower room was located right immediately after exit from the doffing room. |
| 3 | Temporal demand | In case of an emergency, assistance was given to don PPE. Doffing was assisted and nudged at a comfortable pace. Chairs were placed before entering the doffing room to take rest if required. |
| 4 | Performance | Performance was enhanced by a doffing assistant who quickly corrected any protocol deviation or error right at the time of initiation of a deviation. |
| 5 | Effort | A donning and/or doffing assistant was provided to reduce individual effort. |
| 6 | Frustration | All required PPE supplies and gloves (size-wise), ABHR, alcohol swabs were refilled before the start of donning or doffing. An environmental service personnel was stationed outside the doffing area for any assistance. Towels, soaps and surgical scrubs were provided in the shower room and refilled in every shift. A new set of slippers was provided after exiting from the shower room. |
ABHR, alcohol-based hand rub; PPE, personal protective equipment.