Decontamination

/ˌdiː.kɒn.tæm.ɪˈneɪ.ʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The process of removing contamination or pollutants from a substance, area, or object, typically to make it safe for use or handling.

The hospital followed strict decontamination procedures to ensure that all surgical instruments were free from pathogens.

A procedure used in response to a hazardous incident to eliminate harmful substances.

After the chemical spill, the team conducted decontamination of the affected area to protect public health.

The act of cleansing or sanitizing an environment to prevent the spread of disease or infection.

Regular decontamination of the laboratory is essential to maintain safety standards.

The removal of contaminants from nuclear or hazardous waste materials.

Decontamination of the site was necessary before reconstruction could begin.

From de- + contamination, relating to the removal of contamination.

chemical decontamination

The removal of chemical substances from an area or individual.

biological decontamination

The process of removing or neutralizing biological hazards.

radioactive decontamination

The cleaning procedure to remove radioactive substances.

contamination

The presence of a substance (contaminant) that is unwanted or hazardous.

decontaminate

To remove contamination from something.

sanitation

The process of maintaining health through cleanliness.