Chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) decontamination is a process of removing CBRN substances from humans, machines or equipment. Decontamination is done to reduce radiological effects, and or any harmful pathogens that are on the surface of the material or human skin. It is always assumed that biological, radioactive or chemical warfare agents are used by the military for their own undercover operations and not on the population. However, terrorist attacks or accidents from nuclear reactants may release substances, which may harm a large population with a short time. Biological weapons or terrorist attacks may cause birds flue or foot and mouth infection. For this reasons, (CBRN) decontamination is essential to prevent further spread of harmful substances. Biological decontamination can be done by applying an active peracetic acidic component using a hot fogger. Note that, (CBRN) decontamination requires agents that fit or suit the respective purpose considering both logistical and environmental compatibility.
During military operations, their equipment may be contaminated with biological or radioactive substances. The process of decontaminating a surface with radioactive materials can be done by separating the harmful substance from the surface and then removing the contaminant from the surface. Chemical decontamination of military equipment or any other contaminated material is done using a non-aqueous alkoxide, which detoxify the harmful chemical of the affected surface.
Maintaining perfect security situation in any country remains to be a challenge. Organized crimes and other terrorist activities have contaminated the environment with harmful substances, which threaten human existence. For instance, CBRN and HAZMAT terrorist activities that took place in Fukushima, in March 2011 left a sizable area in japan with contaminated radioactive agents. This called for decontaminating people and any materials from this region to avoid further spread due to contamination. People in this region were forced to drink decontaminated water to reduce chances of succumbing to effects of harmful substances.
Transportation or preparation of nuclear or radioactive materials is a risky operation, which may release contaminants. In the event that an accident occurs, CBRN decontamination exercise is essential to eliminate or reduce the negative effects of the harmful materials.
In order to enhance the survival of the human race, promote business activities, the government should enact strict legislation aimed at reducing chances of terrorist activities, which may release contaminated materials to the environment. Military operations ought to be carried out with care to avoid harming innocent citizens.
Bibliography
CBRN decontamination multiservice tactics, techniques, and procedures for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear decontamination.. Washington, D.C.: Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, 2006.
Homeland Security. " » CBRN & HAZMAT Incidents Decontamination: Technologies and Global Market – 2012." » Homeland Security Market Research . http://www.homelandsecurityresearch.com/2012/04/cbrn-hazmat-incidents-decontamination-technologies-and-global-market-2012-edition/ (accessed January 23, 2013).
Kaszeta, Dan. CBRN and Hazmat incidents at major public events planning and response. Hoboken, N.J.: John Wiley & Sons, 2012.
Top of Form
Bottom of Form
