In a cold environment, decontamination and doffing of PPE can cause the body to cool rapidly.

• A. Depends on PPE
• B. False
• C. Not enough information
• D. True

Answer: (D)

Heat loss during decontamination and doffing in a cold environment can happen quickly because several heat-loss mechanisms are at play at once. When decontaminating, water or decontaminants create moisture on the skin and on the inside of protective gear. The evaporation of that moisture draws heat away from the body, causing evaporative cooling. Wet clothing conducts heat away more efficiently than dry clothing, so having PPE soaked or damp accelerates heat loss. Removing insulating PPE layers during doffing exposes skin to cold air, increasing convective heat loss as wind or air movement carries heat away. Cold ambient temperatures, especially with wind, magnify these effects, making rapid cooling possible. Because these factors combine to produce faster-than-usual heat loss, the statement is true. To mitigate, work in a sheltered area when possible, use tepid rather than very cold water for decon, minimize exposed skin, and dry thoroughly and promptly to reduce ongoing heat loss.