The Contamination Reduction Zone
The Contamination Reduction Zone (CRZ) is the transition area between the contaminated area and the clean area in which workers and equipment are decontaminated.
This zone is designed to reduce the probability that the clean Support Zone will become contaminated or affected by other site hazards.
The distance between the Exclusion and Support Zones provided by the CRZ, together with decontamination of workers and equipment, limits the physical transfer of hazardous substances into clean areas.
The CRZ must be well designed to facilitate:
- The decontamination of equipment, PDS operators, personnel, and samples must happen.
- Emergency response, including transport for injured personnel (safety harness, stretcher), first-aid equipment (such as bandages, blankets, eye wash, splints, and water), containment equipment (absorbent, fire extinguisher).
- Equipment resupply, including air tank changes, personal protective clothing and equipment (such as booties and gloves), sampling equipment (such as bottles and glass rods), and tools.
- Sample packaging and preparation for onsite or off-site laboratories.
- Worker temporary rest area, including toilet facilities, bench, chair, liquids, and shade. Water and other potable liquids should be clearly marked and stored properly to ensure that all glasses and cups are clean.
- Wash facilities should be located near drinking facilities to allow employees to wash before drinking.
- Drinking, washing, and toilet facilities should be in a safe area where protective clothing can be removed.
- Facilities should be cleaned and inspected regularly. Appropriate protective measures should be taken by maintenance workers.
- Drainage of water and other liquids that are used during decontamination
The personnel stationed in the CRZ are usually the Site Safety Officer, a Personnel Decontamination Station (PDS) Operator, and the emergency response personnel. Additional personnel may assist the PDS Operator by conducting abbreviated decontamination procedures for sample containers.
Personnel within the CRZ should be required to maintain internal communications, line-of-sight contact with work parties, work party monitoring (e.g., for air time left, fatigue, heat stress, hypothermia), and site security.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
6-7. What limits the physical transfer of hazardous substances into the clean areas?
You forgot to answer the question!