Which action is shown to reduce about 80 percent of contaminant on a person?

• A. Removing clothing reduces 80% of contaminant
• B. Applying lotion after decon
• C. Rinsing only the hands
• D. Wrapping in a blanket

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is that taking off contaminated clothing is the most effective way to reduce exposure quickly. Clothing often carries a large share of the contaminant, acting as a reservoir that can transfer material to skin or spread it to other surfaces. Removing those contaminated garments at once eliminates a major source of contamination, which is why this step can cut a very large portion of the contaminant—about 80%—from the person. After the clothing is removed, the remaining residues on the skin can be washed away with thorough rinsing.

Other actions don’t achieve the same level of reduction. Applying lotion after decontamination doesn’t remove the chemical and can sometimes trap residues or spread them, making decontamination less effective. Rinsing only the hands leaves most of the contaminant on the body, so it’s not nearly sufficient. Wrapping in a blanket doesn’t remove any contaminant at all and can spread contaminants or trap heat and moisture, which isn’t helpful for decon.