Decon is a shortened term for "decontamination," meaning to remove harmful substances or contaminants from an area, object, or person. Synonyms for decon include sanitization, purification, disinfection, and sterilization. All these words share the same goal of making something clean and safe for use or occupancy. Other related terms include detoxification, cleansing, and deodorization, which are all processes of removing impurities or unpleasant smells. In various industries, decon techniques and services are provided for different purposes such as to remove hazardous chemicals, viruses, bacteria, or other dangerous materials from surfaces, water, or air. Effective decon practices are crucial in safeguarding public health and safety.