Leaving a contaminated area without decontamination before exiting the hot zone will most likely cause what?

• A. No risk to anyone else
• B. Immediate decontamination is unnecessary
• C. Decontamination of others is not required
• D. Secondary contamination of other personnel or equipment

Answer: (D)

Leaving a contaminated area without decontamination before exiting the hot zone allows the contaminant to hitch a ride on skin, clothing, boots, or equipment and be carried into cleaner areas. This creates secondary contamination, meaning other personnel or equipment can be exposed or contaminated just by contact with surfaces, gear, or people who haven't yet decontaminated. Decontamination in the warm zone reduces or removes those contaminants so they aren’t spread when you move to less contaminated areas or interact with others and their gear. The risk to others or to equipment is the key reason why decontamination is done before leaving the hot zone.