In which phase should decontamination occur during site surveys?

Decontamination is most appropriately addressed during the clear phase of site surveys. This phase is critical as it occurs after the initial response and assessment of the site has taken place. During the clear phase, personnel ensure that the site is safe for further operations and that any CBRN contaminants present are properly managed to prevent exposure or spread.

In this phase, thorough decontamination protocols are implemented to clean and sanitize equipment, personnel, and the environment, ensuring that any hazardous materials are eliminated. This step is vital to protect the health and safety of the reconnaissance teams as well as civilians, making it an essential aspect of the clear phase strategy.

The response phase is primarily focused on immediate actions to address an emergency, while the investigation phase entails gathering data and understanding the situation. The assessment phase typically involves evaluating risks and determining the necessary actions to take next. Therefore, decontamination fittingly aligns with the objectives and activities of the clear phase, where the emphasis is on ensuring the area is deemed safe and free from contaminants before proceeding with further operations.