Where should Gross Decon be set up?

Setting up Gross Decon in the warm zone is crucial because this area is designed to facilitate the decontamination process while ensuring the safety of both responders and victims. The warm zone serves as a buffer between the contaminated areas (hot zone) and the clean areas (cool zone). It allows for the safe removal of contaminated clothing and the washing of individuals without the immediate dangers present in the hot zone.

In the warm zone, personnel can don the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) required for decontamination procedures while still managing to minimize the risk of contamination spreading to clean areas. This controlled environment provides adequate space and resources to conduct gross decontamination effectively, ensuring that all contaminated individuals are properly assessed and treated before they are moved to the cool zone for further medical evaluation or care.

Setting up Gross Decon in either the cool zone or the hot zone would compromise safety and effectiveness; the cool zone isn't designed for decontamination activities, while the hot zone poses immediate risks due to high contamination levels. Thus, the warm zone is the appropriate choice for establishing Gross Decon procedures.