What question should an emergency response plan answer regarding decontamination?

The ideal emergency response plan should precisely identify the necessary steps to be taken before beginning the decontamination process, which is why the focus on identifying the first step is crucial. This helps ensure that any decontamination efforts are effective and safe.

Determining the first step typically involves assessing the situation to understand the extent and type of contamination, ensuring that proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is worn, and establishing a secure and controlled environment before proceeding with any physical decontamination methods. This assessment allows responders to act effectively and minimize risk to both personnel and the environment.

While other aspects, such as the equipment required, authorization procedures, and review frequency, are significant in developing a comprehensive emergency response plan, they do not address the immediate priorities that need to be established before actual decontamination can occur. These foundational steps are vital to ensuring the safety and efficiency of the decontamination process itself.