How many personnel are required to adequately man a decontamination station?

• A. A team leader, three cutters, and two monitors
• B. Team leader, one cutter, medical department representative, and two monitors
• C. Team leader, (1 or 2) cutter, medical department representative, and monitor
• D. Two team leaders and no medical representative

Answer: (C)

The key idea is that a decontamination station must have clear leadership, safe and efficient PPE handling, medical oversight, and someone to supervise the process. A team leader is essential to run the operation, coordinate actions, and communicate with the rest of the response. Having personnel whose sole job is to remove contaminated garments and gear ensures doffing is done quickly and safely, which minimizes the risk of spreading contamination. The medical department representative brings medical risk awareness, can assess exposure, and coordinate any needed medical evaluation or treatment. A monitor above all keeps the process on track—verifying steps are followed in the correct order, watching time and chemical usage, and preventing cross-contamination by ensuring proper sequencing and movement through the station.

Why one or two cutters works is about workload. For smaller incidents or lower-throughput cases, one cutter can manage the PPE removal without causing delays. When more personnel are at risk or the volume of entrants is higher, adding a second cutter helps maintain a steady pace and keeps the decon line moving efficiently. The combination of a team leader, one or two cutters, a medical representative, and a monitor gives safe, organized, and timely decontamination operations.