Decontamination can be accomplished by the removal, neutralization, absorption, or weathering of the chemical agent. The primary purposes of decontamination are to prevent casualties and to remove obstacles that may prevent mission accomplishment. Individual decontamination or self-aid is performed by an individual with materials on hand. It is performed on himself or herself and the equipment he or she uses. It is performed as soon as practical and is usually sufficient to allow the individual to carry on his or her assigned mission. The M258A1 is used for limited decontamination of all items of individual clothing and equipment.

Unit decontamination is an organized effort performed by personnel of the unit, with equipment available to the unit, when directed by the commander, and under the supervision of trained CBR specialists. All officers and qualified CBR specialists should be prepared to act as supervisors of decontamination teams when required.

Support-Level Equipment Decontamination

Equipment decontamination stations are located as far forward upwind as possible and are normally run by a specialized decontamination team or unit.