Final answer:
The actual showering time during mass decontamination is an incident-specific decision and not a set time frame specified in NFPA 472. It depends on various factors including the contaminant, exposure level, available resources and other incident conditions. Emergency responders must balance the need for thorough decontamination with the urgency of the situation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The duration of actual showering time during mass decontamination (decon) operations is generally an incident-specific decision. There is no exact time specified in NFPA 472 as it can vary based on the type of contaminant, the level of exposure, the available resources, and incident-specific conditions. The goal is to ensure that all contaminants are removed efficiently and thoroughly while also considering logistical constraints such as water supply and the number of people who need decontamination.
In practice, emergency responders aim to balance effectiveness with efficiency. Decontamination should last long enough to remove contaminants but should also be performed promptly to treat and manage affected individuals without unnecessary delays. The key is to follow established protocols and make informed decisions based on the specifics of the incident at hand.