Final answer:
Altering PPE endangers lives by compromising its performance and protection levels, especially when used by healthcare workers and BSL-4 laboratory professionals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best description of why personal protective equipment (PPE) should never be altered is that it may void the manufacturer's warranty and endanger lives. Altered PPE may not perform to the standards for which it was designed, compromising the safety of the wearer. This is essential, especially for medical personnel who rely on PPE as a critical barrier between themselves and infectious agents, as highlighted by the mention of healthcare workers entering an infection zone and those working in BSL-4 laboratories who require specialized protective suits.
Furthermore, proper protocol, such as avoiding flashy clothes and maintaining proper hygiene, ensures that PPE functions correctly. Any deviation from these protocols or alterations to the PPE could lead to weakened protection and increased danger. It is paramount to follow the established PPE guidelines to ensure maximum safety.