Breaking Down Radioactive Decontamination: Why FAST-ACT Wipes Are a Game Changer

The Importance of Proper Radioactive Decontamination 

Exposure to radioactive particles poses a serious health risk, particularly in environments where contamination can spread quickly—such as nuclear facilities, emergency response scenarios, or hazardous material incidents. Unlike chemical hazards that may evaporate or break down, radioactive contaminants can persist on surfaces and skin, requiring effective removal to minimize exposure. 

Traditional decontamination methods often involve water-based rinsing, but this approach is not always practical or effective, especially in field situations where water access is limited. This underscores the need for dry decontamination solutions that can efficiently remove radioactive particles while ensuring safety. 

Testing the Effectiveness of FAST-ACT Wipes for Radioactive Decontamination 

FAST-ACT Decontamination Wipes were put to the test to evaluate their ability to remove radioactive contamination from stainless-steel surfaces and skin. The testing was conducted under controlled conditions using Fluorine-18, a radioactive substance commonly used in medical and research applications. Contamination levels ranged from 110 to 530 Bq/cm², and to simulate real-world decontamination scenarios, the wipes were tested only after the contaminant had fully dried. A calibrated Berthold contamination monitor was used to measure how effectively the wipes removed radioactive particles, following strict laboratory protocols. 

The tests compared two wiping techniques—using the wipe unfolded for broad surface coverage and crumpled for targeted application. Through multiple decontamination cycles, the crumpled wipe method, applied with two wiping motions, proved to be the most effective. On stainless steel, the wipes achieved an impressive 92.27% decontamination efficiency, far exceeding typical industry benchmarks. On skin, they removed an average of 38.27% of contamination, demonstrating significant effectiveness even on porous surfaces where radioactive particles tend to cling. Compared to traditional methods, which often struggle with stubborn contamination, these results highlight FAST-ACT’s advanced decontamination capability. 

Even when dealing with fixed radioactive contaminants—classified under NATO as the most difficult type to remove—the wipes still achieved removal rates between 9.5% and 19% on skin. This is a crucial advantage, as standard decontamination solutions often fall below these levels. Interestingly, applying extra pressure while wiping did not significantly improve results, confirming that FAST-ACT Wipes work efficiently with normal use. These findings reinforce why FAST-ACT is a trusted solution for first responders, military personnel, and hazardous materials teams facing radiological threats. 

Why Choose FAST-ACT Wipes for Radioactive Decontamination? 

FAST-ACT Decontamination Wipes are CE approved for use on skin and provide a highly effective solution for removing radioactive contaminants, offering several advantages over conventional decontamination methods. One of their key benefits is dry decontamination, eliminating the need for water and making them ideal for emergency scenarios where water access may be limited. Designed for versatility, these wipes are safe for use on both surfaces and skin, ensuring effective decontamination of equipment and personnel without causing irritation or damage. Additionally, FAST-ACT wipes leave no residue behind, preventing the spread of radioactive particles and minimizing secondary contamination. 

When it comes to radioactive decontamination, speed and effectiveness are critical. FAST-ACT wipes provide a fast, reliable, and field-ready solution to safely remove radioactive particles from surfaces and skin. Whether responding to an emergency, working in a high-risk environment, or ensuring personnel safety, FAST-ACT delivers the trusted protection needed.