Optimalization of Tools for Chemical Decontamination of Hazardous Materials After an Accident

Abstract

As a consequence of accidents during the production, transport and storage of hazardous chemicals, toxic substances may be released into the environment, which pose a threat to both environmental elements and living organisms. In most cases damage elimination tasks are done by the fire fighting units of the disaster management. Chemical decontamination is the activity of firefighters to eliminate chemicals entering the environment and to reduce their adverse effects, the aim of which is to remove or neutralize the toxic substances within a minimum period of time from persons, from various landmark, surface of tools, water and air. Chemical decontamination by firefighters differs from classical military chemical decontamination, therefore there are also differences in the special tools and decontamination materials used to perform their duties. The procedure is not harmless but at the same time extremely costly, therefore a regular optimization review of available tools and decontamination materials is essential for safe usability. This review was made by the writers of this article regarding the tools available to them. Their aim is to improve the process of chemical decontamination using their research experiences.