Measures to be taken in contaminated individuals

An effective decontamination requires accurate contamination measurements, decontamination procedures ensuring maximum skin protection and a close observance of relevant rules of behaviour, in order to avoid a further spread of contamination. The following procedure must be adhered to in the event of skin contamination: 1) Contaminated clothing is to be taken off and safely sealed. The person assisting should make use of any available protection (such as protective clothes and gloves and, if required, a 'mask' in the form of napkin. 2) The contaminated person must wash in warm water (approx. 30deg C) and washing lotion (alkaline-free). Two repetitions, if required. Secondary contamination is to be avoided. 3) Any solid or liquid wastes must be collected and safely sealed. 4) An elimination of any residual contamination using specific agents (refer to table) requires the prior consultation of trained assistant personnel (or an authorised physician) and is necessary if a) there is a risk of spreading or incorporation and/or b) the activity of contamination is greater than 10 bq/cm2 (average value determined for a 100 cm2 area showing a mostly even distribution of contamination). 5) Skin scare (restoring the skin's physiological balance). (orig./HP)