Which statement about secondary decontamination is accurate?

Which statement about secondary decontamination is accurate?

• A. It is performed after the primary responders have completed their decontamination.
• B. It is never used in HazMat responses.
• C. It is performed for victims or equipment as they leave the decon corridor.
• D. It is optional and only used for major incidents.

Answer: (C)

Secondary decontamination focuses on finishing the removal of contaminants after the initial decontamination, ensuring that victims and equipment are clean before they move into the clean areas. The correct approach is to cleanse victims or equipment as they exit the decontamination corridor, in a controlled step that removes any residual contaminants and prevents spread to the cold zone or to hospital staff and other responders. This is standard practice in HazMat responses, not something reserved for only the largest incidents, and it occurs as people and gear leave the decon area rather than waiting for all responders to complete their own decon.