What should responders do if they experience contamination at an incident scene?

When responders experience contamination at an incident scene, it is crucial for them to notify the incident commander. This is because the incident commander holds overall responsibility for managing the incident, including ensuring the safety of all personnel involved. By reporting contamination, the responder allows the commander to evaluate the situation, assess potential risks, and implement appropriate safety measures or decontamination protocols.

This communication is vital for maintaining the safety and effectiveness of the response efforts, as it ensures that necessary actions are taken to protect not just the affected individual but also other responders and the integrity of the incident management. The prompt reporting of contamination enables the incident commander to manage resources effectively and make informed decisions based on the overall scenario.

In contrast, continuing with tasks could exacerbate contamination issues, while boarding the transport rig without assessment could put others at risk. Waiting for further instructions without communication may delay critical safety interventions. Thus, notifying the incident commander is the essential first step in addressing contamination.