What is the primary purpose of decontamination in a hazmat incident?

The primary purpose of decontamination in a hazmat incident is to remove hazardous substances from people and equipment. This process is essential to ensure the safety of individuals who may have been exposed to toxic materials and to prevent further spread of contamination. Effective decontamination minimizes health risks for both responders and the public by eliminating or significantly reducing the harmful effects of exposure to hazardous materials.

Decontamination involves procedures and techniques that are specifically designed to clean and neutralize contaminants, thereby protecting human health and the environment. This process often includes methods such as washing, using chemical agents, or specialized equipment to ensure that no residual hazardous substances remain on the skin, clothing, or tools.

The other options are important functions within the overall hazard management and response strategy but do not serve the primary goal of decontamination. Identifying hazardous substances and conducting chemical analysis are crucial for understanding the risks involved in a situation, while safely storing hazardous materials is vital for long-term management, not for immediate removal of contaminants.