Methods of Skin Decontamination Following Exposure to Toxic Industrial Chemicals and Chemical Warfare Agents
Purpose: Exposure of the body to the harmful effects of toxic substances, such as chemical warfare agents or toxic industrial chemicals, can cause serious damage to the skin and internal organs. Therefore, to mitigate negative effects on health, it is crucial to shorten exposure time using decontamination methods. The aim of this paper is to analyze the types of decontamination based on the implementation methods (dry, wet and mixed) in order to identify the most suitable type for specific practical applications. Ready-to-use decontamination kits, including Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion (RSDL), are also discussed due to their high effectiveness, and the use of both chemical and physical methods for neutralizing toxic agents. Finally, the process of skin and hair is analyzed from the perspective of humans and animals. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study used literature analysis and deductive reasoning as its core methods, enabling us to integrate knowledge from the reviewed works and substantiate conclusions tied to the research purpose. Findings: Rapid skin decontamination is crucial after exposure to toxic industrial chemicals or chemical warfare agents. No single universal method exists, the choice depends on the substance and situation. Dry methods (adsorbents, kits) are recommended first to avoid increasing skin absorption, wet methods (water, soap) can reduce exposure but may boost absorption if used alone at the start. Combining dry and wet methods can increase effectiveness, especially for persistent toxins. Practical implications: Emergency response plans should prioritize the availability and use of dry decontamination materials (e.g., adsorbents, commercial kits) as a first-line approach. Training for responders and at-risk personnel should include correct selection and application of decontamination methods. Institutions and facilities at risk of chemical incidents should have protocols of decontamination. Ongoing education and drills are essential to ensure preparedness for mass casualty chemical incidents. Decontamination strategies should also account for the potential generation and management of secondary contamination. Originality/Value: This article provides a evaluation of both traditional and modern methods of skin decontamination in the context of chemical exposures, integrating recent scientific findings. The paper compares dry, wet, and hybrid techniques, including improvised approaches, and ready-to-use decontamination kits, adding practical insights for emergency planning.