What is the primary responsibility of the Decon Task Force in a hazardous materials incident?

The primary responsibility of the Decon Task Force in a hazardous materials incident is to perform decontamination procedures. This is a critical function because effective decontamination helps to prevent the spread of hazardous substances, ensuring the safety of both responders and the public. The Decon Task Force is specifically trained to set up decontamination zones, assess contamination levels, and carry out procedures that cleanse personnel, equipment, and the environment from hazardous materials.

In hazardous materials incidents, contamination can pose serious health risks. Therefore, the Decon Task Force plays a vital role in mitigating these risks by ensuring that anyone who comes into contact with hazardous substances is properly cleaned and that any equipment used is made safe for further operations.

Other roles, such as initiating fire suppression or evacuating civilians, while important, fall outside the specific duties of the Decon Task Force. Conducting safety briefings is crucial as well but is generally the responsibility of the command structure or safety officers rather than the Decon Task Force itself.