Abstract <p>Approaches to in situ decontamination were considered with a focus on techniques that minimize the time spent by personnel in the contaminated area but ensure highly efficient metal surface decontamination. A method of decontamination using removable polymer coatings was examined. Experiments aimed at increasing the efficiency of removing fixed radionuclides were carried out at the St. Petersburg State Institute of Technology (SPSIT). Based on advantages and shortcomings of using removable coatings, an alternative technology of in situ decontamination, consisting in treatment of the surface with a decontamination solution loaded onto a sorbent-based composite material, was developed at SPSIT. The decontamination method is briefly described, and the results demonstrating its efficiency are presented.</p>