Decontamination is the process of removing dangerous substances from something.
It is used to protect workers from hazardous substances that may contaminate and eventually permeate the protective clothing, respiratory equipment, tools, vehicles, and other equipment used on site.
Decontamination also protects all site personnel by minimizing the transfer of harmful materials into clean areas, helps prevent mixing of incompatible chemicals, and protects the community by preventing uncontrolled transportation of contaminants from the site.
Decontamination is also used to remove the agent from the casualty’s skin and clothing, protect emergency responders and medical personnel from cross-contamination, and prevent the spread of contamination.