Geotech Filter Bucket, Installation And Operation Manual

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Appendix A: Decontamination Procedures
Some common decontamination solutions are listed below along with the contaminants
they are effective against:
Solution Effective Against
Water
Short-chain hydrocarbons, inorganic compounds, salts, some
organic acids, other polar compounds.
Dilute Acids Basic (caustic or alkaline) compounds, amines, hydrazines.
Dilute Bases Acidic compounds, phenols thiols, some nitro- and sulfonic
compounds.
Organic solvents Non-polar compounds (such as some organic compounds)
The use of organic solvents is not recommended because:
1) organic solvents can permeate and/or degrade protective clothing and
2) they are generally toxic and may result in unnecessary employee exposure to
hazardous chemicals.
When in doubt, use a dish washing liquid detergent. As a decontamination solution, it is
readily available, is the safest of all the above, and is usually strong enough if used
generously. The use of steam can also be effective for decontamination. A water-lazer
(pressurized water) is exceptionally valuable.
The following substances are noted for their particular efficiency in removing certain
contaminants or for decontaminating certain types of equipment.
Solution Effective Against
Penetone
PCB Contamination (since penetone may also remove paint, it is a
good idea to spot-test before use)
Phosphate free
Contaminated pumps
detergent
Ivory liquid
Oils
Diluted HTH
Cyanides
Radiac
Low level radioactivity
Isopropanol
Biological agents (should not be used on rubber products since it
will break down rubber)
Hexane
Certain types of lab or sampling equipment (use of hexane is
discouraged due to its flammability and toxicity)
Zep
General purpose cleaning
Phosphate free
General purpose cleaning