---
title: "Removing Flow from the participant"
slug: "removing-flow2-from-the-participant"
updated: 2025-07-30T00:26:08Z
published: 2025-07-30T00:26:08Z
canonical: "docs.kernel.com/removing-flow2-from-the-participant"
---

> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.kernel.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Removing Flow from the participant

![Image: Alert icon.](https://cdn.document360.io/c97072d7-dbc3-41f6-b55e-b62dbde0527b/Images/Documentation/Important_icon_LONG(16).png)Ensure the lasers are OFF before removing the headset from a participant. Stop the recording if there is one in progress.

- The operator releases the Tension Dial by turning it to the left.
- The operator grasps both Ear Covers and stretches them laterally, at which point the participant detaches the external EEG lead clips from their ear lobes.
- The operator lifts the headset straight up. They should keep the Ear Covers maximally stretched while they lift so as not to trap hair between the headset plates.
- The operator places the Flow headset on the Headset Stand.

[Video](https://cdn.document360.io/c97072d7-dbc3-41f6-b55e-b62dbde0527b/Images/Documentation/Flow_removal(1).mp4)

- If this was the last data recording with this participant, sanitize the headset. See [Cleaning your Flow System](/docs/cleaning-your-flow2-system).
- If you are done collecting data for the *day*, disconnect the Power/Data Cable from the Hub turn the system off. Review [Storing your Flow System](/docs/storing-your-flow2-system) for more helpful details.

NOTE:

In general, the headset can be left on the Headset Stand for long periods of time in a "sleep" state—headset powered on, with lasers off—with no consequence. However, it is best practice to fully power down the system at the end of the day or if there will be periods of more than a few hours between use.