Which statement correctly describes the arrangement of the zones around the hot zone?

Which statement correctly describes the arrangement of the zones around the hot zone?

• A. The Cold Zone surrounds the Hot Zone, with the Warm Zone inside.
• B. The Warm Zone surrounds the Cold Zone, with the Hot Zone inside.
• C. The Warm Zone surrounds the Hot Zone, and the Cold Zone surrounds the Warm Zone.
• D. The Hot Zone surrounds the Warm Zone, which surrounds the Cold Zone.

Answer: (C)

During hazmat response, zones are arranged in nested layers to prevent spread of contaminants. The hottest, most contaminated area is the hot zone. It is surrounded by the warm zone, which is the transition area where decontamination and PPE removal occur. The cleanest area lies outside—the cold zone—which is kept uncontaminated and used for control, staging, and support. Therefore, the correct arrangement is that the warm zone surrounds the hot zone, and the cold zone surrounds the warm zone. This setup helps contain the hazard and ensures decontamination happens before entering the clean area.

During hazmat response, zones are arranged in nested layers to prevent spread of contaminants. The hottest, most contaminated area is the hot zone. It is surrounded by the warm zone, which is the transition area where decontamination and PPE removal occur. The cleanest area lies outside—the cold zone—which is kept uncontaminated and used for control, staging, and support. Therefore, the correct arrangement is that the warm zone surrounds the hot zone, and the cold zone surrounds the warm zone. This setup helps contain the hazard and ensures decontamination happens before entering the clean area.