What is the first step to take before decontaminating equipment or facilities?

Determining the extent of the contamination is crucial before proceeding with decontamination of equipment or facilities because it guides the entire decontamination process. Understanding how widespread the contamination is helps in assessing the necessary resources, protective measures, and cleaning methods required. If the extent of contamination is unclear, there's a risk of inadequate cleaning, which may leave residual contamination and pose safety risks.

Identifying the levels of contamination also informs which specific cleaning agents or techniques will be appropriate for the materials and surfaces involved. Additionally, assessing the situation allows for better planning regarding isolation strategies and communication with relevant authorities, ensuring that all necessary precautions are taken to protect personnel and the environment during the decontamination process.