Which of the following best describes why clothing removal is included in mass decontamination procedures?

• A. It reduces contaminants on the body by about 80%
• B. It increases the total contamination
• C. It has no effect on overall decontamination
• D. It slows down the process

Answer: (A)

Removing contaminated clothing in mass decontamination is crucial because most of the contaminant load sits on the clothing and outer surfaces. Taking clothes off eliminates a large portion of the contaminant at the source, dramatically reducing the amount that remains on the skin and can be transferred to others or to the environment. This step sets up the rest of the decon process for a faster and more effective wash, since less contaminant is left to be removed from skin during the rinse.

The figure that clothing removal reduces contaminants by about 80% reflects the idea that the majority of the contamination is carried by clothing and outer layers, not deeply into the skin. If clothing stays on, contaminants can continue to transfer to the skin and surfaces or recontaminate the person during subsequent decon steps, slowing progress and increasing risk.

In short, clothing removal is included because it removes a large portion of the contamination at the outset, enabling a faster, safer, and more effective decontamination process.