What term describes the method of dealing with surface contaminants for a large number of victims?

The method of dealing with surface contaminants for a large number of victims is referred to as mass decontamination. This approach is essential in emergency situations where many individuals may have been exposed to hazardous materials. Mass decontamination allows for the rapid and efficient cleansing of individuals to reduce the risk of contamination spreading and ensure the safety of both the victims and the responders.

Unlike individual decontamination, which focuses on one person at a time and is more detailed, mass decontamination prioritizes speed and the treatment of large groups. This often involves setting up decontamination stations or using methods such as showers or sprays that can effectively cleanse multiple individuals quickly.

Selective decontamination involves identifying and treating only those who specifically require decontamination, which is not feasible when dealing with large numbers of victims. Total decontamination implies a thorough and often time-consuming process for each individual, which is impractical in a mass casualty scenario. Therefore, mass decontamination is the most appropriate and effective method for managing large groups exposed to surface contaminants.