What percentage of external contamination can typically be removed by removing outer clothing?

Removing outer clothing can significantly reduce external contamination, and in many scenarios, it can eliminate up to 90% of the contaminants. This is particularly important in situations where individuals may have been exposed to hazardous materials or biological agents because the outer clothing often collects and holds a substantial amount of these contaminants. When the outer layers are removed, it not only provides immediate relief from potential exposure but also limits the spread of contaminants to clean areas, thereby minimizing the overall risk to health and safety.

Outer clothing acts as a barrier that can trap particulates, liquids, and other harmful substances, making its removal an effective first step in decontamination procedures. This principle is widely applied in various fields, including medicine, disaster response, and environmental safety, where minimizing exposure is critical. Thus, the correct understanding that removing outer clothing can typically remove about 90% of external contamination aligns with established practices in handling contamination effectively.