A portable device 10 for isolating and decontaminating a sample 12 on a surface 14 comprising: a housing 16 incorporating an opening 18 to enclose a sample that is located on a surface, an air inlet 40, an air outlet 30, an automated means for decontaminating the sample and/or air enclosed by the housing and a means for providing re-circulation of air within the device via the air inlet and air outlet. Preferably the housing has a sealing 24 means, ideally an inflatable tube, which is located around the opening of the housing. Ideally the automated means for decontaminating the sample is an ultraviolet light source 26 and at least one filter comprising activated carbon. Preferably the means for providing re-circulation comprises a fan 28 or a manifold 38 that connects 42 the air inlet and air outlet and is situated outside the housing. Ideally the device comprises a means for introducing a decontaminant, maybe an injector, into the device. A method for the isolation and automated decontamination of a suspect sample using the apparatus is also claimed.
