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8.0 DECONTAMINATION Decontamination involves the physical removal and/or neutralization of harmful contaminants in order to prevent their migration to previously uncontaminated areas, and to minimize the potential for adverse health effects. The extent of decontamination depends on the hazard and the quantities of the contaminant. Contamination can occur from Contacting vapors,gases,mists,or air particulates, • Splashes while sampling or opening containers, • Handling contaminated instruments or equipment, • Assisting contaminated personnel during routine operations, decontamination procedures, and emergencies, and Chemicals used for the decontamination of equipment or in construction operations (i.e. solvent based adhesive,glues,etc.). Decontamination of equipment and personnel will be performed upon exit from the work area(see Section 9.1). Contractors and subcontractors will provide all necessary decontamination equipment. The Project Manager is responsible for ensuring that the setup and implementation of decontamination procedures that are adequate for the nature and level of contaminants encountered and consistent with the following requirements. 8.1 DECONTAMINATION PROCEDURES Decontamination procedures appropriate for the existing work area and work tasks will be specified by the SSO. Such procedures must be in place before site operations begin, and they must remain in place (modified as necessary)throughout the period of activity, wherever possible, the need for decontamination should be reduced through work practices that minimize contact with contaminants. Decontamination will he performed only in designated areas. Separate areas may be set up for equipment and personnel. 8.2 PERSONNEL DECONTAMINATION Decontamination procedures are carried out on all personnel leaving any work area. Under no circumstances (except emergency evacuations)will personnel be allowed to leave the site without fully decontaminating. Decontamination of personnel should consist primarily of soap and water washing and water rinse of exterior protective gear to remove contaminants, followed by doffing of the gear. Coveralls should be removed by timing the clothing inside out. Requirements appropriate to the degree of contamination expected for each protective equipment ensemble is established below, however modifications of these procedures may be necessary in response to specific conditions encountered at the work site(s). 8.2.1 Level Personnel Decontamination Personnel exiting any work area who are utilizing Level D PPE(see Sections 5.2 and 7.2.1)will perform decontamination in accordance with the following guidelines: Place tools, instruments, samples and trash at an appropriate location. The equipment drop area should be clean and dry and at a minimum, plastic bags should be available for trash. Waste PPE will not be placed in the same containers as general trash, Inspect equipment, samples, and if applicable,tools for signs of residual amounts of contamination or excessive soil buildup. If present, soils and contamination must be completely cleaned off of equipment, samples, and tools prior to removal from the work area, Personnel will visually check themselves for signs of excessive soils and possible contamination, especially on the work boots.If observed,soils and contamination will be completely removed before further decontamination is performed,and Page 28