How should shower heads be arranged in a decontamination area?

The correct choice for arranging shower heads in a decontamination area is a parallel configuration. This arrangement is crucial for ensuring an efficient decontamination process, allowing for multiple individuals to use the showers simultaneously while maintaining a safe and effective environment.

In a parallel configuration, the shower heads are aligned in such a way that they can be accessed easily, which is essential for decontaminating personnel quickly and effectively after working in asbestos-containing areas. This setup minimizes the risk of cross-contamination, as each person can shower without interfering with others, and it facilitates a smooth flow of individuals through the decontamination process.

A circular pattern would not allow for efficient use of space or easy access, which is vital in emergency decontamination situations. Facing the shower heads away from each other, while it may offer some level of privacy, could lead to water flow issues and may complicate the decontamination process. Arranging shower heads at varying heights may not provide an equitable experience for all users, as it could lead to inadequate decontamination for individuals of different statures.

Thus, the parallel configuration is favored for its practical application in ensuring a streamlined, efficient process in the decontamination area.