Wash Timings for Effective Chemical Decontamination

Introduction: Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive (CBRNE) threats are significant concerns in today’s security climate and global instability. It is therefore crucial to be prepared with robust protocols and procedures for effective chemical decontamination. Currently, most hospitals in Singapore use wash timings of up to 15 minutes. However, there has been little evidence to show optimal wash timings for chemical decontamination. If the process is too short, it might not provide sufficient decontamination, or too long, resulting in a waste of resources. This study aims to investigate optimal wash timings during chemical decontamination to ensure efficient yet effective chemical decontamination. Methods: A total of 20 full-sized mannequins on trolleys simulating derobed patients on trolleys were used. Firstly, a colorless, non-scented, non-toxic gel simulating chemical contamination (Glo Germ®) was applied to the mannequins in a standardized manner - across the head, face, bilateral axillae, front and back torso, groin, and bilateral lower limbs. Ten mannequins were washed by staff for eight minutes each, and ten mannequins were washed by staff for five minutes each. After washing, mannequins were examined using ultraviolet light, with any residual Glo Germ® visible under ultraviolet light. Mannequins without residual traces of Glo Germ® were successfully decontaminated. The total number of mannequins successfully decontaminated was recorded for each wash timing. Results: Both wash timings (eight minutes and five minutes) resulted in successful decontamination, with no trace of Glo Germ® seen on any of the ten mannequins used for each wash timing. Conclusion: Both wash timings yielded successful decontamination of all ten mannequins. Using a wash timing of five minutes would maintain effective decontamination, yet save time and water resources during chemical decontamination. This study successfully validated the use of a shorter wash timing, as well as the hospital’s chemical decontamination protocols.