Which zone must personnel exit before reporting to the Decon Hose Line?

The Hot Zone is the area where hazardous conditions exist, which poses a direct threat to the safety of personnel. It is critical that personnel exit this zone before they approach the Decon Hose Line for decontamination. The reason for this is to minimize exposure to any harmful substances or environments present in the Hot Zone, ensuring that responders are safely decontaminated and free from pollutants before entering other areas for further action or reporting.

Exiting the Hot Zone signifies that personnel have completed their immediate task in a hazardous environment and are taking appropriate precautions to protect themselves from potential contaminants. The Decon Hose Line serves as a controlled means to safely wash off any hazardous materials that may have adhered to their gear or bodies after working in such environments.

In contrast, the Cold Zone is typically a safe area where decontaminated personnel can regroup and receive medical evaluation if necessary, while the Warm Zone serves as a transition area. However, the critical point is that personnel must leave the Hot Zone first to ensure their safety before accessing any decontamination procedures, including the Decon Hose Line.