Which is a common method of decontaminating equipment?

Washing with soap and water is a recognized and effective method for decontaminating equipment. This approach effectively removes many types of contaminants, including hazardous materials, by using the mechanical action of scrubbing and the properties of soap, which can break down oils and other substances. Soap and water help to dissolve contaminants, allowing for their removal from surfaces and reducing the risk of exposure to harmful substances.

This method is also practical, as it can be easily implemented in many environments and requires minimal specialized training or equipment. The use of soap enhances the effectiveness of water in removing contaminants, making it a widely accepted practice among hazmat responders for the first level of decontamination.

On the other hand, while using chemical neutralizers can be appropriate for specific contaminants, it requires knowledge of the chemicals involved and is not as universally applicable as soap and water. Submerging equipment in corrosive solutions poses risks of damaging the equipment and requires careful handling to avoid injuries. Freezing contaminants may not effectively kill all types of pathogens or remove hazardous materials, making it impractical for decontamination purposes. Thus, washing with soap and water stands out as a reliable and versatile method for this purpose.