What should workers do if they cannot shower at the decontamination area?

When workers are unable to shower at the decontamination area, the best course of action is to HEPA vacuum their suits. This method is effective because a HEPA vacuum is designed to capture small particles, including asbestos fibers, which may be present on the suit. By using a HEPA vacuum, workers can reduce the risk of asbestos contamination both for themselves and for others around them. This action helps in minimizing any potential spread of asbestos fibers outside of the controlled environment.

Leaving the suits on would not mitigate the risk of spreading contamination, as the fibers would remain on the suit. Regular vacuuming is not advisable since standard vacuums do not have the same filtration capabilities as HEPA vacuums and could potentially release trapped particles back into the air. Waiting until getting home simply postpones the contamination issue and could lead to the spread of asbestos fibers in a residential setting, which poses significant health risks. Therefore, HEPA vacuuming the suits offers a practical and effective solution in a situation where immediate decontamination via showering is not available.