Decontamination

For people, decontamination usually begins with removing contaminated clothing and washing the skin and eyes with large amounts of water, using a Safety shower or Eyewash station (ANSI Z358.1) where available. Speed is important, and in many cases washing starts before the person is moved. For some materials the SDS suggests a specific cleaning agent or warns against water, so Section 4 should be checked.

Equipment and surfaces are cleaned in a controlled sequence from the most contaminated to the least. Reusable Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as boots or suits is washed or rinsed before removal, and removal itself is done carefully to avoid touching the outside. Wash water and wipes may become hazardous waste and must be collected rather than flushed away, in line with disposal instructions in the SDS and local rules.

Planning involves setting up areas: a hot zone where contamination exists, a decontamination corridor and a clean zone. Responders such as a First responder team follow set procedures so that people do not carry chemicals out with them. Medical staff should be told what the person was exposed to, since they may also need protection.

Not all contamination can be removed with simple washing. Some chemicals penetrate skin or materials, and some reactions are made worse by water. Preparation, including choosing the right agent, training and having supplies close at hand, is part of overall Emergency response. A Spill kit often contains basic items for cleaning up equipment and surfaces.