Dry decontamination

Dry decontamination is a method of decontaminating (or removing contaminants like chemicals, biological particles, or other liquids, gasses, or solids) that requires no water or other liquids. Decontamination is an essential job duty of hazmat responders as it protects victims from harmful reactions to the contaminants.

Dry decontamination is a relatively recent addition to decontamination and is especially useful in cold weather conditions or when water is scarce or difficult to transport. Dry decontamination reduces the size and manpower requirements of the decontamination line and eliminates the issue of having to purchase excess equipment that becomes ineffective due to storage or infrequent use.

Dry decontamination is usually performed after the removal of clothing and before a shower (when available). There are five different types of dry decontamination, each of which can be used in conjunction with others to remove up to 100% of all suspected contaminants:

Scraping is a process of decontamination in which the bulk contaminant is removed from the victim or environment using a spatula, wood tongue depressor, or other handheld implement. Scraping works best with viscous liquids and solids.

Absorbent materials are specifically made to absorb (or capture and contain) contaminants. Absorbent materials include FiberTect, RSDL, Fuller's earth, flour, baking soda, paper towels, etc., all of which absorb hazardous materials from the victim. After absorption is completed using an absorbent material and immediate danger has passed, the contaminated surface should be blotted with a wet paper towel. An absorbent material increases in volume when a contaminant is absorbed.

FiberTect is a multi-layer nonwoven composite fabric that absorbs and adsorbs chemical, biological, and radiological contaminants. It is made of two layers of polyester with an inner layer of fibrous activated carbon. The three layers are needled-punched to form a single fabric that allows the material to be structurally sound while creating void spaces for better absorption and adsorption. FiberTect is available in wipes or mitts, which remove up to 90% of contaminants.

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