decon

DECON, short for decontamination, is the process of removing, neutralizing, or reducing hazardous contaminants from people, objects, or environments to levels that are safe for health and the environment. It is used in contexts ranging from chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear hazards (CBRN) to industrial spills and disaster response. In emergency and public health settings, decontamination aims to lower exposure risk for responders and the public by systematically reducing contamination prior to medical treatment or sheltering.

Two common forms are gross (immediate) decontamination, performed at or near the scene to rapidly reduce contaminant levels, and technical decontamination, conducted in a controlled facility with more thorough cleansing and monitoring. DECON can be wet, using water and detergents, or dry, using absorbents and mechanical removal. A first step in many protocols is removal of contaminated clothing to minimize skin exposure.

Typical DECON procedures include hazard assessment, donning appropriate personal protective equipment, cleansing with soap or approved agents, thorough rinsing, and proper disposal or containment of contaminated wastewater and materials. Post-decontamination monitoring may verify contaminant reductions and determine whether additional treatment is needed. In healthcare settings, decon may occur before or after triage to prevent cross-contamination.

Equipment and facilities used for decontamination include portable or fixed wash systems, decontamination showers, drainage and waste-collection systems, and designated decon areas or corridors to prevent spread of contaminants. DECON programs are implemented by emergency responders, military units, industrial hygiene teams, and healthcare facilities, guided by national and international standards and training.