HAZWOPER Decontamination
Decontamination, or decon for short, is the removal of hazardous materials from workers and equipment to prevent adverse health effects. It is critical that all emergency responders are protected and off-site contamination is prevented. The correct approach must balance safety with responding in a timely manner to contain the incident. This module covers decontamination best practices.
Request a demoCourse Details
Learning Objectives
• Define decontamination • Describe the purpose of a decontamination plan • Describe how contamination can occur • Describe safe practices and procedures to prevent contamination • Describe how permeation occurs • List common decontamination methods and describe their applicability • List the questions that should be answered when selecting decontamination methods • Describe how to select a location for decontamination • List and describe the steps for technical and emergency decontamination • Describe how to assess decontamination effectiveness
Specs
| Course Level | Intermediate |
| Languages | English |
| Compatibility | Audio, Video |
| Based on: | 29 CFR 1910.120 |
Key Questions
What should be included in a decontamination plan?
A decontamination plan should determine appropriate methods and procedures to minimize worker contact with hazardous materials, the equipment needed for decontamination, the number and layout of decontamination stations, and the methods for disposing of contaminated clothing and equipment.
What is direct contamination?
Direct contamination occurs when someone or something comes into direct physical contact with a contaminant. For example, walking through a liquid spill.
What is cross contamination?
Cross contamination occurs when someone or something that is already contaminated makes contact with a person or object. Cross contamination results from poor site access control, inadequate decontamination, or failure to follow procedures.
How is decontamination accomplished?
Decontamination can be accomplished by physically removing or chemically deactivating contaminants. For example, brushing, washing, vacuuming, neutralization, and disinfection are all decontamination methods.
How is the appropriate method chosen?
The method chosen must be effective for the contaminants present, the method and equipment must be compatible with the contaminants and the materials being decontaminated, and the method must be free of additional hazards and safe for all personnel.
Sample Video Transcript
Decontamination is the process of removing or neutralizing contaminants from personnel and equipment. A decontamination plan should be developed to identify appropriate decontamination methods and equipment, the number and layout of decontamination stations, and how to dispose of materials that cannot be decontaminated. The plan should be revised if hazards, site conditions, or protection measures change. Always try to minimize the amount of contamination because it reduces the exposure risk and decontamination requirements. In emergency situations, the safety of the victims and medical personnel must be the priority.
Additional Resources
Demos + Pricing
Learn more about our courses, get pricing, and see our platform.
