Decontamination Procedures - CRZ Requirements

A CRZ must be well designed for decontamination of equipment and personnel. It must also be designed to facilitate the following:

• Emergency response, including the transport of injured personnel (using, for example, safety harnesses or stretchers)
• Emergency response, including first-aid equipment (for example, bandages, blankets, eye wash, splints, and water)
• Emergency response, including containment equipment (absorbents, fire extinguishers, and the like)
• Materials for adequate equipment resupply (for example, air tank changes and personal protective clothing and equipment, such as booties and gloves)
• Equipment adequate for sampling (such as bottles and glass rods)
• Any necessary tools
• Sample packaging and preparation for both onsite or offsite laboratories
• Worker temporary rest area (including toilet facilities, benches, chairs, liquids, and adequate shade)

Employers must do the following inside CRZs, as stated by OSHA:

• Clearly mark water and other potable liquids
• Properly store all glasses and cups to ensure cleanliness
• Locate wash facilities near drinking facilities (so employees may wash themselves before drinking)
• Locate drinking, washing, and toilet facilities away from hazardous work sites, and in an area where PPE can be removed
• Have facilities cleaned and inspected regularly
• Ensure proper drainage for water and other liquids that are used during decontamination
• Ensure maintenance workers take appropriate protective measures and wear necessary PPE

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