Response contamination control

Instruction

User:
Person responsible for contamination control of responders, typically member of the fire brigade.
When to apply:
If there is an indication that an area may be contaminated by the presence of radioactive smoke, liquid or dust.

Steps:

  1. Establish a response contamination control area at the boundary of the inner cordoned area. There should be provisions for:
    • A controlled entrance and exit
    • Logging in and out of area (e.g. tag board)
    • Collection of the equipment used inside of inner cordoned area
      • Storage area for tools
    • Decontamination of equipment:
      • Hose line with attempt to confine runoff so that it cannot affect other operational areas
    • Decontamination of personnel:
      • Hose line with attempt to confine run off so that it cannot affect other operational areas
      • Provisions to change outer clothing and wash hands and face
      • Provisions to replace protective equipment (air supplies and filters)
      • Provisions to bag / control waste
  2. Ensure that first responders follow the steps below:
    When entering the inner cordoned area:
    • Cover instruments with plastic bags
    • Log in (keep account of those in area)
    • Limit taking additional tools going into the area if possible (use tools already in the area).
    • Follow personnel protection guidelines when in the area
    When leaving the inner cordoned area:
    • Remove plastic cover from the instruments
    • Leave instruments and equipment used inside of the inner cordoned area for further use
    • Receive monitoring using instructions for monitoring of the public and responders
    • Receive field decontamination:
      • Hose down (wash boots, gloves and protective clothing if fully isolating protective clothing is used)
      • Remove outer protective clothing
      • Wash hands and face
      • Get monitored (if monitoring is available)
    • Before leaving the scene get a full decontamination (see instructions for public decontamination) and if decontamination is not performed — remain isolated until showered and all clothing changed (bag clothing)
    • Log out