PPE exposed to hazardous conditions should undergo an initial reduction of contaminants:

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of reducing contaminants from personal protective equipment (PPE) right at the scene before any return to the station. This practice is crucial for maintaining safety and preventing the spread of hazardous materials. Addressing contaminants promptly at the incident site minimizes the risk of exposure to both firefighters and others who may come into contact with the equipment later on.

Performing an initial reduction of contaminants on-site helps ensure that potentially harmful substances are dealt with immediately, rather than allowing them to linger and pose risks during transportation or when stored at the station. This action aligns with safety protocols designed to protect personnel and prevent cross-contamination.

Other options suggest different timing for the decontamination process, such as doing so after changing into clean clothing or once at the station, which may not adequately mitigate risks to health and safety when handling contaminated PPE. Additionally, decontamination after restoring equipment to readiness would overlook the urgent need to address contaminants right away. Prompt decontamination at the scene is therefore the most effective strategy for managing exposure risks in accordance with safety standards.