Introduction

TASER Conducted Energy Weapons (CEWs) are widely used by law enforcement agencies and may be placed in a situation where they are exposed to the drug fentanyl. Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic drug similar to morphine and heroin (but 50 to 100 times more potent). Fentanyl can come in several forms including powder, liquid, or pills. Contact with fentanyl can absorb in the skin and result in unintended overdose.

The method of fentanyl decontamination for a CEW will be dependent on the severity of the exposure. The solution used to decontaminate the fentanyl chemical will leave behind a sticky residue, which needs to be cleaned once the decontamination is complete. If a CEW is heavily exposed to fentanyl and there is risk that the chemicals have made their way inside the CEW, the inside of the CEW must be decontaminated. This will effectively destroy the CEW, but it must be done to prevent the risk of exposure later. For this reason, this procedure is split into two methods: Light/Surface exposure and Heavy/Internal exposure.

This procedure applies to TASER M26, X26E, X2, X26P, and TASER 7 CEWs and their associated battery packs. The methods in this procedure apply to decontamination of the CEW and cartridge(s); however, the cartridge(s) will NOT be usable after the procedure using either method.

DO NOT return contaminated CEWs to Axon. If the CEW must be returned to Axon, conduct the decontamination procedure first, using the appropriate method.

Suggested Materials

• First Line Technology Dahlgren Decon PDK (Personnel Decon Kit)
• 91% isopropyl alcohol
• Chemtronics CS25 ChemSwab
• Chemtronics CF4050 swabs
• Paper towels or soft clean cloth

ANY contact with the CEW is very dangerous until the CEW is decontaminated. WEAR PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT. DO NOT allow the CEW to touch bare skin and DO NOT allow the CEW to cross contaminate other surfaces.

Method 1: Light/Surface Exposure

Procedure

Note: This method is to be followed when the fentanyl exposure is limited to the external surface of the CEW. If there is any risk that the contamination expanded to the inside of the CEW, please err on the side of caution and skip to Method 2

Note: Perform this procedure in a well-ventilated area.

1 Isolate the CEW in a safe area that can be cleaned after the decontamination procedure is completed. Lay out the contents of the PDK kit.

2 Mix the Dahlgren Decon solution in the provided beaker per the instructions on the kit. Pour the solution into the spray bottle when foaming reaction settles. Contact First Line Technology with any questions on mixing the solution.

3 Remove the CEW cartridge(s) and place aside.

4 Spray Dahlgren Decon on the FIBERTECT wipe until damp. Wipe the entire outside surface of the CEW with one FIBERTECT wipe from the PDK Kit.

5 Do NOT use the FIBERTECT wipe on the cartridges.

6 Spray the outside surface of the CEW with the Dahlgren Decon solution, but avoid getting the solution in the battery compartment or cartridge bay(s).

Note: Spray the surface enough for full coverage, but not so much that it begins to drip.

7 Spray the Dahlgren Decon solution over the entire surface of the cartridge(s), ensuring full coverage.

8 Let the Dahgren Decon solution sit on the CEW and cartridge for 5 minutes.

9 Using the other FIBERTECT wipe, wipe the Dahlgren Decon solution from the CEW, taking care to not wipe or drip the solution in the cartridge bay(s). Do not wipe the cartridges(s) with the FIBERTECT wipe. The CEW and cartridge(s) will now be decontaminated and safe to touch. However, the Dahlgren Decon solution will leave a sticky residue. The cartridge(s) cannot be cleaned without the risk of static buildup and will no longer be deployable. Dispose of the cartridge(s) in a safe manner, compliant with any applicable policies and regulations.

10 Using clean paper towels or cloth dampened with 91% Isopropyl alcohol (do not pour the alcohol onto the CEW), clean the outside surface of the CEW where any sticky residue remains.

•    Use the swabs to clean all hard to reach areas (trigger well, safety crevasses, CID, etc.).
•    Do not allow alcohol to drip into the cartridge bay(s).
•    Be sure to clean all of the areas of leftover residue to prevent future buildup of dirt or                       contaminants.

11 Allow the CEW to dry for 1 hour.

12 Arm the CEW and perform a function test per the User’s Manual.

Method 2: Heavy/Internal Exposure

Procedure

Note: This method is for heavy exposure with potential or known internal contamination. This method will damage the internal circuits and hardware within the CEW and will render the CEW unusable.

Note: Perform this procedure in a well-ventilated area.

1 Isolate the CEW in a safe area that can be cleaned after the decontamination procedure is completed. Lay out the contents of the PDK kit.

2 Mix the Dahlgren Decon solution in the provided beaker per the instructions on the kit. Pour the solution into the spray bottle when foaming reaction settles. Contact First Line Technology with any questions on mixing the solution.

3 Remove the CEW battery pack and cartridge(s) and place aside.

4 Using an appropriately sized container, submerge the CEW in the Dahlgren Decon solution for 5 minutes.

5 Remove the CEW from the solution and wipe it with the FIRBERTECT wipe.

6 Submerge the cartridge(s) in the Dahlgren Decon solution for 5 minutes.

7 Remove the cartridge(s) from the solution and place them aside to dry. DO NOT wipe cartridges with the FIRBERTECT wipe.

WARNING: CEW battery packs contain either lithium metal or lithium ion cells and should NOT be submerged, as they can explode if the cells are not sealed and the lithium is exposed. Dispose of lithium batteries contaminated with fentanyl per laws and regulations as hazardous material.

8 Dispose of the CEW and cartridge(s) in a safe and environmentally conscious manner, compliant with any applicable policies and regulations.

 

Contact Axon Support at 800-978-2737 for assistance.

Chemswab and Chemtronics are trademarks of ITW Chemtronics, Dahlgren Decon and First Line Technology are trademarks of First Line Technology, LLC., and FIBERTECT is a trademark of Hobbs Bonded Fibers Corporation.