Not All Dry Decontamination Is Created Equal: What to Look for in a Real Solution

When every second counts during a chemical exposure, choosing the right method of decontamination can be the difference between containment and catastrophe. In quick-response scenarios, especially where water is limited or unavailable, dry decon methods are essential for removing hazardous substances and chemical vapors from people, surfaces, and equipment. 

But not all dry decontamination tools perform the same. Some are built to absorb or contain, while others are designed to neutralize the threat entirely. If your team is deciding between dry options, here’s what to know before making the call. 

Still confused on the difference between dry and wet decon? Read more. 

Why Dry Decon Methods Matter in Modern Hazmat Response 

For today’s response teams and hazmat professionals, conditions in the field are unpredictable. From extreme temperatures to environmental risks and evolving chemical threats, every choice—from PPE to decon methods—must be intentional. 

Dry decon methods are especially valuable in: 

• Areas where amounts of water are limited 

• Cold or remote locations where wet decontamination solutions aren’t feasible 

• Incidents involving sensitive equipment or medical devices that can’t be exposed to liquid-based solutions 

• Emergency triage where speed and mobility are key 

Unlike water-based methods, which often require setup, run-off control, and clean-up, dry solutions can be used immediately—no infrastructure needed. 

What to Look for in a Dry Decon Product 

When evaluating tools for field use, consider these factors: 

• Neutralization vs. Absorption: Does the product simply absorb hazardous materials, or does it actively neutralize them at the same time? 

• Compatibility with Skin and Gear: Is it safe and certified for use on people and sensitive equipment? 

• Speed and Simplicity: Is the product designed for rapid deployment in high-pressure situations? 

• Broad Efficacy: Can it handle a wide range of hazardous substances, including chemical vapors and liquids? 

• Reliability in Field Operations: Does it perform consistently in unpredictable or extreme environments? 

FAST-ACT Decontamination Mitt: A Dry Decon Tool That Neutralizes Threats 

Unlike passive products, the FAST-ACT Decontamination Mitt is engineered to neutralize toxic threats—safely, effectively, and without water. Built for real-world field operations, the FAST-ACT Decontamination Mitt contains a proprietary formulation of Magnesium Oxide (MgO) and Titanium Dioxide (TiO₂) that breaks down hazardous materials on contact. 

FAST-ACT Decontamination Mitt highlights: 

• Actively neutralizes a broad spectrum of chemicals, including toxic industrial chemicals and chemical warfare agents 

• Safe for use on skin, surfaces, and sensitive equipment 

• Powder formulation eliminates the challenges of water in field decon 

• Designed for rapid deployment in high-stress environments 

• Ideal for use alongside other FAST-ACT solutions, including FAST-ACT Decontamination Wipes and the FAST-ACT 400g Pressurized Cylinder for surface, skin, or vapor decon 

Absorption-Only Mitts: A Containment-Only Approach 

Some dry decontamination mitts on the market use an activated carbon core to absorb and trap particles. While they may seem effective on the surface, these products are non-reactive by design. That means: 

• The threat is not neutralized 

• There’s a risk of off gassing or secondary exposure 

• Chemical residue remains trapped inside the mitt 

These products may be useful for temporary containment, but they fall short when safety and full neutralization are the goal. 

Real-World Use Cases 

The FAST-ACT Decontamination Mitt is trusted by professionals who need speed, safety, and performance in unpredictable conditions.  

Use cases include but are not limited to: 

• On-scene decon during fentanyl or drug lab exposure 

• Mass casualty triage and decontamination 

• Rapid decon of substances from people in populated or enclosed spaces 

• Cleaning sensitive equipment, vehicles, or medical devices without liquid 

• Wipe-down after chemical vapor exposure during crowd control operations 

• Confined space decon in aircraft, transport vehicles, or detention centers 

• Supplementing or replacing wet decontamination solutions in existent decontamination lines  

• Emergency use in industrial settings, airports, ports, and postal facilities 

Final Thoughts: Choose a Tool That Does More Than Contain 

In modern hazmat and chemical response, the ability to neutralize, not just contain, is critical and non-negotiable. Relying on absorption-only tools may give a false sense of control—while leaving the real threat intact. 

The FAST-ACT Decontamination Mitt, along with other FAST-ACT solutions, offers an integrated, effective approach to dry decontamination. Whether you’re operating in a contaminated warehouse, treating individuals in the field, or responding to a chemical spill with limited access to water, FAST-ACT delivers results you can trust—without compromising responder safety, unlike other solutions. 

If you are looking for a dry decontamination solution but don’t know where to start, reach out to our team to schedule a call to see how FAST-ACT can fit into your teams’ needs and emergency preparedness procedures.