Which zone is used for decontamination operations and is adjacent to the hot zone?

Which zone is used for decontamination operations and is adjacent to the hot zone?

• A. Cold zone
• B. Safe zone
• C. Hot zone
• D. Warm zone

Answer: (D)

Decontamination is performed in a designated transition area that sits between the contaminated (hot) zone and the clean area (cold zone). This zone is specifically set up to remove or reduce contaminants from personnel and equipment before they move into the safe area, preventing the spread of contamination further away from the incident. Because it acts as the bridge from hot to cold, it must be adjacent to the hot zone so responders can decontaminate promptly as they exit the affected area. The hot zone contains the hazard; the cold zone is kept clean for support and operations, so decontamination should occur in the warm zone, not in the hot or cold zones.