Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
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Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
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Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Instructor Biography
Stephen L. Hermann, CHS-V, recently retired as the hazardous materials
coordinator for the Arizona Department of Public Safety, and Arizona's senior stateon-scene-coordinator for hazardous materials emergency response. He has
supervised over 120 serious hazardous materials highway and rail incidents over
the past 35 years; has participated in raiding over 150 clandestine drug
laboratories; has published over 130 articles during the past 15 years in all of the
major police, fire, and environmental magazines; has been the keynote speaker at
a number of national conferences; and participated in national teleconferences.
He is a senior executive fellow of the John F. Kennedy School of Government,
Harvard University. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in explosives technology
and is a graduate of the U.S. Naval School Explosive Ordnance Disposal, United
States Army Command,General Staff College, and the U.S. Army War College. He
was a hazardous materials specialist for his agency, and a Arizona Division of
Emergency Services Hazardous Materials Technician course graduate. He is a
retired Army Chemical Corps Colonel in the USAR.
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Instructor Biography Continued
He is Certified in Homeland Security Level V by the American College of Forensic Examiners Institute. He is past National Chairman of
COHMED, the national organization of state and local hazardous materials enforcement officers, and past chairman of the Commercial
Vehicle Safety Alliance Hazardous Materials Committee. He has conducted research at major national hazardous materials transportation
accident scenes and wrote his agency's hazardous materials standard operating procedures and personal protective equipment program.
Hermann was a script reviewer and participated in field testing for the National Fire Protection Association’s video, "BLEVE Update"; a
technical advisor for Argonne National Laboratories for a series of hazardous materials productions for U.S. DOT's Research and Special
Programs Administration; a consultant to Los Alamos National Laboratories; and consultant to the Institute of Makers of Explosives for their
video “Responding to Trucking Incidents Involving Commercial Explosives.”
He is qualified as a hazardous materials expert witness in Superior Court and United States District Court, as well as having been a courtappointed expert witness. He has testified before subcommittees of both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate and has
also testified before committees of both the House and Senate of the Arizona State Legislature. He also served as Chairman of the
legislatively-mandated Technical Committee on state hazardous materials regulations updating.
Hermann was appointed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency as a member of the curriculum development committee for the
Contingency Planning Course at the Emergency Management Institute, Emmitsburg, Maryland. He served on the National Governor's
Association/National Conference of State Legislatures' Alliance for Uniform HAZMAT Transportation Procedures and was appointed by the
Secretary of Transportation to the Congressionally-established Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety Act (HMTUSA) "working group,"
and participated in the national propane truck negotiated rule-making.
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Introduction
The course will enable the participant to demonstrate proficiency in
the competencies established by the U.S. Department of Labor
Occupational Safety & Health Administration and the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency for responding to an incident
involving hazardous materials/dangerous goods in a trucking or rail
incident. The participant will be better able to understand how to
make a preliminary assessment of a situation that they suspect
involves criminal or terrorist use of chemical, biological (CB) agents
and/or radioactive materials.
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Learning Objectives
After completing this course, participants should be better able to understand the following:
1. Demonstrate proficiency in the First Responder Awareness competency of understanding what hazardous
substances are, the risks associated with them in an incident, and the potential outcomes associated
with an emergency created when hazardous substances are present as required by U.S. Occupational
Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) 29 Code of Federal Regulations (29 CFR) Part 1910.120(q)(6)(i)(A)
and (B).
2. Demonstrate proficiency in the First Responder Awareness competencies of recognizing the presence of
hazardous substances in an emergency and the ability to identify the hazardous substances, if possible,
as required by U.S. Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) 29 Code of Federal Regulations
(29 CFR) Parts 1910.120(q)(6)(i)(C) and (D) .
3. Demonstrate proficiency in the First Responder Awareness competency of understanding the role of the
first responder awareness individual in the employer’s emergency response plan including site security
and control and the U.S. Department of Transportation's Emergency Response Guidebook, as required by
U.S. Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) 29 Code of Federal Regulations (29 CFR) Part
1910.120(q)(6)(i)(E).
4. Demonstrate proficiency in the First Responder Awareness competency of the ability to realize the need for
additional resources and to make appropriate notifications to the communication center as required by
U.S. Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) 29 Code of Federal Regulations (29 CFR) Part
1910.120(q)(6)(i)(F).
5. Demonstrate proficiency in understanding the possible criminal/terrorist use of
chemical/biological/radiological agents as discussed in the U.S. Department of Transportation’s
Emergency Response Guidebook.
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Course Outline
Unit 1
Unit Description: Nature and Risk of Hazardous Materials
Unit Learning Objectives
Demonstrate proficiency in the First Responder Awareness competency of understanding what
hazardous substances are, the risks associated with them in an incident, and the potential outcomes
associated with an emergency created when hazardous substances are present as required by U.S.
Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) 29 Code of Federal Regulations (29 CFR) Part
1910.120(q)(6)(i)(A) and (B).
Unit 2
Unit Description: Recognition and Identification of Hazardous Materials
Unit Learning Objectives
Demonstrate proficiency in the First Responder Awareness competencies of recognizing the presence
of hazardous substances in an emergency and the ability to identify the hazardous substances, if
possible, as required by U.S. Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) 29 Code of Federal
Regulations (29 CFR) Parts 1910.120(q)(6)(i)(C) and (D) .
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Unit 3
Unit Description: Employer’s Emergency Response Plan, Site Security and Control, and Use of the U.S. DOT 2004
Emergency Response Guidebook
Unit Learning Objectives
Demonstrate proficiency in the First Responder Awareness competency of understanding the role of the first
responder awareness individual in the employer’s emergency response plan including site security and control and
the U.S. Department of Transportation's Emergency Response Guidebook, as required by U.S. Occupational Safety
& Health Administration (OSHA) 29 Code of Federal Regulations (29 CFR) Part 1910.120(q)(6)(i)(E).
Unit 4
Unit Description: Additional Resources and Notifications
Unit Learning Objectives
Demonstrate proficiency in the First Responder Awareness competency of the ability to realize the need for additional
resources and to make appropriate notifications to the communication center as required by U.S. Occupational
Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) 29 Code of Federal Regulations (29 CFR) Part 1910.120(q)(6)(i)(F).
Unit 5
Unit Description: Chemical and Biological Agents, Radioactive Materials
Unit Learning Objectives
Demonstrate proficiency in understanding the possible criminal/terrorist use of chemical, biological (CB) agents
and/or radioactive materials as discussed in the ERG2004.
V. Certification Exam
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Responding to Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
This course relies upon competencies for responding to an
incident involving hazardous materials established by the
U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety & Health
Administration in 29 CFR Part 1910.120, and in 40 CFR Part
264 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
1. Nature and Risk of Hazardous Materials
2. Recognition and Identification of Hazardous Materials
3. Employer’s Emergency Response Plan, Site
Security & Control & Use Of U.S. DOT 2004
Emergency Response Guidebook
4. Additional Resources and Notifications
5. Chemical and Biological Agents, Radioactive Materials
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Unit 1:
Nature and Risk of Hazardous Materials
Performance Objective
Demonstrate proficiency in the First Responder Awareness competency of
understanding what hazardous substances are, the risks associated with them
in an incident, and the potential outcomes associated with an emergency
created when hazardous substances are present as required by U. S.
Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) 29 Code of Federal
Regulations (29 CFR) Part 1910.120(q)(6)(i)(A) and (B).
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Hazardous Material U.S. DOT Definition
“A substance or material that the Secretary of
Transportation has determined is capable of posing an
unreasonable risk to health, safety, and property when
transported in commerce.”
(Consists of 9 Hazard Classes)
DOT Hazardous Materials
• Class 1: Explosives
• Class 2: Gases
• Class 3: Flammable and combustible liquids
• Class 4: Flammable solids, spontaneously combustible
materials, dangerous when wet materials
• Class 5: Oxidizing substances and organic peroxides
• Class 6: Toxic substances and infectious substances
• Class 7: Radioactive materials
• Class 8: Corrosive substances
• Class 9: Miscellaneous hazardous materials, products,
substances or organisms
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Class 1:
Explosives
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Division 1.1:
Division 1.2:
Division 1.3:
Division 1.4:
Division 1.5:
Explosives with a mass explosion hazard
Explosives with a projection hazard
Explosives with predominantly afire hazard
Explosives with no significant blast hazard
Very insensitive explosives with a mass explosion
hazard
Division 1.6: Extremely insensitive articles
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Division 1.1: Explosives that have a mass explosion hazard. A mass
explosion is one that affects almost the entire load instantaneously.
Division 1.2: Explosives that have a projection hazard, but not a mass
explosion hazard.
Division 1.3: Explosives that have a fire hazard, and either a minor blast
hazard or a minor projection hazard, or both, but not a mass explosion
hazard.
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Division 1.4: Explosives that present a minor explosion hazard. The
explosive effects are largely confined to the package and no
projection of fragments of appreciable size or range is expected.
Division 1.5: Very insensitive explosives; substances that have a
mass explosion hazard, but are so insensitive that there is very little
probability of initiation or of transition from burning to detonation
under normal conditions of transport.
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Class 2: Gases
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Division 2.1: Flammable gases
Division 2.2: Nonflammable, nontoxic* gases
Division 2.3: Toxic* gases
Flammable gas: Ignitability and flammable range ASTM flammability test method
Nonflammable gas: Any gas that is not flammable or toxic
Gas poisonous by inhalation: Is known to be so toxic to humans as to pose a hazard to health
during transportation.
* The words “poison” or “poisonous” are synonymous with the word “toxic.”
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Class 3:
Flammable and Combustible
Liquids
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Flammable liquid: Produces ignitable vapors at
less than 141 degrees F (gasoline)
•
Combustible liquid: Produces ignitable vapors
over 141 degrees F but less than 200 degrees F
(diesel fuel)
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Class 4: Flammable Solids,
Spontaneously Combustible Materials,
Dangerous When Wet Materials
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Division 4.1: Flammable solids
Division 4.2: Spontaneously combustible
materials
Division 4.3: Water-reactive substances,
dangerous when wet
materials
Flammable solid: Readily combustible or self-reactive materials as determined by testing
Spontaneously combustible: A self-igniting or self-heating materials when in contact with air
Dangerous when wet material: Burns on contact with water or gives off flammable or toxic gas
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Class 5:
Oxidizing Substances and
Organic Peroxides
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Division 5.1: Oxidizing substances
Division 5.2: Organic peroxides
Oxidizer: Can cause or enhance the combustion of other materials
by yielding oxygen
Organic peroxide: Derivative of hydrogen peroxide with a specific
chemical formula
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Class 6:
Toxic Substances and
Infectious Substances
• Division 6.1: Toxic substances
• Division 6.2: Infectious substances
Poisonous material: Is known to be so toxic to humans as to pose a hazard
to health during transportation
Infectious substance: Known to contain a pathogen that has the potential to
cause disease in humans or animals
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Class 7:
Radioactive Materials
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Any material containing radionuclides where both the activity
concentration and total activity exceed regulation values.
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Capable of posing both short-term and long-term health risks.
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Class 8:
Corrosive Substances
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A liquid or solid that causes destruction
of human skin or has a severe corrosion
rate on steel or aluminum.
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Class 9:
Miscellaneous Hazardous Materials,
Products, Substances, or
Organisms
•
Presents a hazard during transportation but does not meet the
definition of any other hazard class; has an anesthetic, noxious or
similar property; or is an elevated temperature material, hazardous
waste or a marine pollutant.
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Potential Outcomes
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Potential hazards
– Health
– Fire or explosion
Public safety
– Notification and isolation
– Protective clothing and
respiratory protection
– Evacuation
Emergency response
– Fire
– Spill or leak
– First aid
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Health
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Inhalation, ingestion, or contact with vapors; dust or substance may cause severe injury, disease,
or death
High concentration or vapors may cause asphyxiation or dizziness without warning
Contact may burn skin and eyes
Fire or contact with water may produce irritating, toxic, or corrosive gases
Runoff from fire control may cause pollution and be toxic or corrosive
Contact with gas or liquefied gas may cause burns, severe injury, and/or frostbite
Toxic, extremely hazardous
Initial odor may deaden your sense of smell
Vapors are heavier than air and spread along ground
Inhalation of decomposition products may cause severe injury or death
Reaction with water may generate much heat
Contact with molten substance may cause severe burns
Extensive additional remarks apply to
radioactive materials incidents
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Fire or Explosion
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Easily ignited by heat, sparks, or flames
Vapors may travel to ignition source
Runoff to sewer may create hazard
Containers may explode when heated
May explode from heat, shock, or friction
May react violently with air or water
Ruptured cylinders may rocket
May explode and throw fragments 1 mile
Cylinders exposed to fire may vent gas
Substances may polymerize explosively
Some may react explosively with fuels
May ignite combustibles (wood, paper, clothing)
Contact with metals may evolve flammable hydrogen gas
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Notification and Isolation
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Call Emergency Response Telephone Number on shipping paper first
Isolate spill or leak area for at least ____(distances vary from 30–1,000 meters)
Keep unauthorized personnel away
Stay upwind
Keep out of low areas
Move people out of line of sight of the scene and away from windows
Ventilate closed spaces before entering
Many gases are heavier than air and will spread along ground and collect in low areas
DO NOT allow the substance to warm up. Obtain liquid nitrogen, dry ice, or ice for cooling. If none
can be obtained, evacuate the area immediately.
Priorities for rescue, life-saving, first aid, and fire control and other hazards are higher than the
priority for measuring radiation levels
Detain or isolate uninjured persons or equipment suspected to be contaminated; delay
decontamination and cleanup until instructions are received from Radiation Authority
Radiation Authority must be notified on accident conditions. Radiation Authority is usually
responsible for decisions about radiological
consequences and closure of emergencies
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Protective Clothing and Respiratory Protection
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Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)
Structural firefighters’ protective clothing provides limited protection in fire situations
ONLY; it is not effective in spill situations where direct contact with the substance is
possible.
Always wear thermal protective clothing when handling refrigerated/cryogenic liquids
Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the
manufacturer. It may provide little or no thermal protection.
For phosphorous (UN1381): Special aluminized protective clothing should be worn
when direct contact with the substance is possible.
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Evacuation
Spill or Large Spill
• Consider initial evacuation for ½ mile in all directions
• See the Table of Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances
Fire
• If rail car or a trailer is involved in a fire and heavily encased explosives, such as
bombs or artillery projectiles, are suspected ISOLATE for 1 mile in all directions (also
applies to gases in rail car or trailer)
• When heavily encased explosives are not involved, evacuate the area for ½ mile in all
directions
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Emergency Response
Fire
CAUTION: Material may react with extinguishing agent
Small fires
• Dry chemical, CO2, water spray, or regular foam
Large fires
• Water spray, fog, or regular foam
Fire involving tanks
• Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until after fire is out
• Do not get water inside containers
• Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or
discoloration of tank
• ALWAYS stay away from tanks engulfed in fire
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Emergency Response
Fire:
Explosives/Certain Flammable Solids
Cargo fires
• DO NOT fight fire when fire reaches cargo! Cargo may EXPLODE!
• Stop all traffic and clear the area for at least 1 mile in all directions and let burn
• Do not move cargo or vehicle if cargo has been exposed to heat
Tire or vehicle fires
• Use plenty of water—FLOOD it! If water is not available, use CO2, dry chemical, or
dirt.
• If possible and, without risk, use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles from
maximum distance to prevent fire from spreading to cargo area.
• Pay special attention to tire fires as re-ignition may occur; stand by with extinguisher
ready.
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Emergency Response
Fire: Gases
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DO NOT EXTINGUISH A LEAKING GAS FIRE UNLESS LEAK CAN BE STOPPED
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Use extinguishing agent suitable for type of surrounding fire
CAUTION: Hydrogen (UN1049) and deuterium (UN1957) burn with an invisible flame
Small fires
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For certain gases water only, no dry chemical, CO2, or Halon
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Dry chemical or CO2 (also water spray, regular, or alcohol-resistant foam with certain gases)
Large fires
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Water spray or fog (also regular or alcohol-resistant foam with certain gases)
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FOR CHLOROSILANES, DO NOT USE WATER; use AFFF alcohol-resistant medium expansion foam
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Do not get water inside containers
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Move containers from fire area if you can do it without risk
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Damaged cylinders should be handled only by specialists
Fire involving tanks
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Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until after fire is out
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Do not direct water at source of leak or safety devices; icing may occur
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Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank
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ALWAYS stay away from tanks engulfed in fire
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Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles
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For massive fire, use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles; if this is
impossible, withdraw from area and let fire burn
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Some of these materials if spilled may evaporate leaving a flammable residue
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Emergency Response
Fire: Flammable Liquids
CAUTION: All these products have a very low flash point; use of water spray when fighting fire may be
inefficient
CAUTION: For mixtures containing a high percentage of an alcohol or polar solvent, alcohol-resistant foam
may be more effective; some of these materials may react violently with water
Small fires
•
Dry chemical, CO2, water spray, regular, or alcohol-resistant foam
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Do not use dry chemical extinguishers to control fires involving nitromethane or nitroethane
Large fires
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Water spray, fog, regular, or alcohol-resistant foam
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Use water spray or fog; do not use straight streams
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Move containers from fire area if you can do it without risk
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Dike fire control water for later disposal; do not scatter the material (for certain flammable liquids)
Fire involving tanks (or car/trailer loads)
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Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles
•
Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until after fire is out
•
Do not get water inside containers
•
Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank
•
ALWAYS stay away from tanks engulfed in fire
•
For massive fire, use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible, withdraw from area and let
fire burn
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Emergency Response
Fire: Certain Flammable Solids
Small fires
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Dry chemical, CO2, sand, earth, water spray, or regular foam
Large fires
•
Water spray, fog, or regular foam
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Move containers from fire area if you can do it without risk
•
Use water spray or fog; do not use straight streams
•
Do not get water inside containers
•
Dike fire control water for later disposal; do not scatter the material
Fire involving tanks (or car/trailer loads)
•
Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles
•
Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out
•
For massive fire, use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible, withdraw from area
and let fire burn
•
Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank
•
ALWAYS stay away from tanks engulfed in fire
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Emergency Response
Fire: Self-reactives
Small fires
•
Dry chemical, CO2, water spray, or regular foam
Large fires
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Flood fire area with water from a distance
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Move containers from fire area if you can do it without risk
Fire involving tanks (or car/trailer loads)
•
Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles
•
Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out
•
Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of
tank
•
ALWAYS stay away from tanks engulfed in fire
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Emergency Response
Fire: Self-reactive, Temperature Controlled
The temperature of the substance must be maintained at or below the “control
temperature” at all times
Small fires
•
Dry chemical, CO2, or regular foam
Large fires
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Flood fire area with water from a distance
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Move containers from fire area if you can do so without risk
Fire involving tanks or car/trailer loads
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BEWARE OF POSSIBLE CONTAINER EXPLOSION
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Fight fire from a maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles
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Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until after fire is out
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Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank
•
ALWAYS stay away from tanks engulfed in fire
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Emergency Response
Fire: Spontaneously Combustibles
DO NOT USE WATER, CO2 OR FOAM ON MATERIAL ITSELF
Some of these materials may react violently with water
EXCEPTION: For xanthates, UN3342 and for dithionite (hydrosulfite/hydrosulphite) UN1384, UN1923 and
UN1929, USE FLOODING AMOUNTS OF WATER for SMALL and LARGE fires to stop the reaction.
Smothering will not work for these materials; they do not need air to burn.
Small fires
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Dry chemical, soda ash, lime, or DRY sand, EXCEPT for UN1384, UN1923, and UN1929
Large fires
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DRY sand, dry chemical, soda ash, or lime EXCEPT for UN1384, UN1923, and UN1929, or
withdraw from area and let fire burn
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Move containers from fire area if you can do it without risk
Fire involving tanks (or car/trailer loads)
•
Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles
•
Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out
•
Do not get water inside containers or in contact with substance
•
Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of
tank
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ALWAYS stay away from tanks engulfed in fire
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Emergency Response
Fire: Air Reactive Substances
Small fires
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Water spray, wet sand, or wet earth
Large fires
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Water spray or fog
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Do not scatter spilled material with high pressure water streams
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Move containers from fire area if you can do it without risk
Fire involving tanks
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Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles
•
Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until after fire is out
•
Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of
tank
•
ALWAYS stay away from tanks engulfed in fire
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Emergency Response
Fire: Water Reactives
When material is not involved in fire do not use water on material itself
Small fires
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Dry chemical or CO2
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Move containers from fire area if you can do it without risk
Large fires
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Flood fire area with large quantities of water, while knocking down vapors with water fog. If
insufficient water supply, knock down vapors only.
Fire involving tanks (or car/trailer loads)
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Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out
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Do not get water inside containers
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Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of
tank
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ALWAYS stay away from tanks engulfed in fire
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Emergency Response
Fire: Water Reactives Emitting Flammable/Toxic Gas
DO NOT USE WATER OR FOAM (FOAM MAY BE USED FOR CHLOROSILANES,
SEE BELOW)
Small fires
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Dry chemical, soda ash, lime, or sand
Large fires
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DRY sand, dry chemical, soda ash, or lime or withdraw from area and let fire burn
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FOR CHLOROSILANES, DO NOT USE WATER; use AFFF alcohol-resistant medium expansion foam; DO
NOT USE dry chemicals, soda ash, or lime on chlorosilane fires (large or small) as they may release large
quantities of hydrogen gas that may explode
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Move containers from fire area if you can do it without risk
Fire involving tanks (or car/trailer loads)
•
Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles
•
Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out
•
Do not get water inside containers
•
Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank
•
ALWAYS stay away from tanks engulfed in fire
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Emergency Response
Fire: Oxidizers
Small fires
• Use water; do not use dry chemicals or foams; CO2 or Halon may provide limited
control
Large fires
• Flood fire area with water from a distance
• Move containers from fire area if you can do so without risk
• Do not get water inside containers: a violent reaction may occur
• Do not move cargo or vehicle if cargo has been exposed to heat
• Fight fire from a maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor
nozzles
• Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until after fire is out
• ALWAYS stay away from tanks engulfed in fire
• For massive fire, use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles; if this is
impossible, withdraw from area and let fire burn
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Emergency Response
Fire: Oxidizers, Water Reactive
DO NOT USE WATER OR FOAM
Small fires
•
Dry chemical, soda ash, lime
Large fires
•
DRY sand, dry chemical, soda ash, or lime or withdraw from area and let fire burn
•
Move containers from fire area if you can do it without risk
Fire involving tanks (or car/trailer loads)
•
Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles
•
Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out
•
Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of
tank
•
ALWAYS stay away from tanks engulfed in fire
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Emergency Response
Fire: Organic Peroxides
Small fires
•
Water spray or fog is preferred; if water is not available use dry chemical, CO2, or regular
Large fires
•
Flood fire area with water from a distance
•
Use water spray or fog; do not use straight streams
•
Move containers from fire area if you can do so without risk
•
Do not move cargo or vehicle if cargo has been exposed to heat
•
Fight fire from a maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles
•
Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until after fire is out
•
ALWAYS stay away from tanks engulfed in fire
•
For massive fire, use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible, withdraw
from area and let fire burn
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Emergency Response
Fire: Organic Peroxides, Temperature Controlled
The temperature of the substance must be maintained at or below the
“control temperature” at all times
Small fires
•
Water spray or fog is preferred; if water is not available use dry chemical, CO2, or regular
foam
Large fires
•
Flood fire area with water from a distance
•
Use water spray or fog; do not use straight streams
•
Move containers from fire area if you can do so without risk
•
Do not move cargo or vehicle if cargo has been exposed to heat
•
Fight fire from a maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles
•
Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until after fire is out
•
BEWARE OF POSSIBLE CONTAINER EXPLOSION
•
ALWAYS stay away from tanks engulfed in fire
•
For massive fire, use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible,
withdraw from area and let fire burn
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Spill or Leak
Level of detail comparable to FIRE section for each hazard class with varying
characteristics
First Aid
•
•
Level of detail comparable to FIRE section for each hazard class with varying characteristics
Common procedures include
– Move victim to fresh air
– Call 911 or emergency medical service
– Give artificial respiration if victim is not breathing
– Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult
– Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes
– In case of contact with substance, immediately flush skin or eyes with running water for at
least 20 minutes
– In case of burns, immediately cool affected skin for as long as possible with cold water.
Do not remove clothing if adhering to skin
– Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the
material(s) involved and take precautions to protect
themselves
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First Aid:
Suspected Radioactive Materials
•
•
•
Medical problems take priority over radiological concerns
Use first aid treatment according to the nature of the injury
Do not delay care and transport of a seriously injured person
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Supplemental Information
Explosives Division 1.4 Class C
•
•
•
Packages bearing the 1.4S label or packages containing material
classified as 1.4S are designed or packaged in such a manner that when
involved in a fire, may burn vigorously with localized detonations and
projection of fragments.
Effects are usually confined to immediate vicinity of packages
If fire threatens cargo area containing packages bearing the 1.4S label or
packages containing material classified as 1.4S, consider isolating at least
15 meters (50 feet) in all directions. Fight fire with normal precautions from
a reasonable distance.
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Unit 2:
Recognition and Identification of
Hazardous Materials
Performance Objective
Demonstrate proficiency in the First Responder Awareness
competencies of recognizing the presence of hazardous substances
in an emergency and the ability to identify the hazardous substances,
if possible, as required by U.S. Occupational Safety & Health
Administration (OSHA) 29 Code of Federal Regulations (29 CFR)
Parts 1910.120(q)(6) (i)(C) and (D).
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Identification
Methods
•
•
•
•
•
Shipping papers
Labels
Package markings
Placards
Container configuration
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Shipping Papers
Shipping documents (i.e. shipping order, bill of lading, manifest) prepared by the offer
(shipper) and carried by the transporter (carrier) that describe the hazardous
materials being transported.
There are extensive U.S. DOT technical requirements for the information required on
these documents, BUT NO SPECIFIC FORM is prescribed.
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Shipping Paper
Entries
- Reportable quantity(RQ)
- Proper shipping name
- Technical name (NOS’s)
- Hazard class #
- Identification (ID) #
- Packing group (I, II, or III)
- Total quantity (weight/volume)
- Poison inhalation hazard
- Emergency response phone #
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Shipping Paper Entries
U.S. DOT regulations dictate the specific sequence of information entered
on shipping papers that accompany the hazardous materials shipment.
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Emergency Response
Telephone Number
Monitored at all times
Contact person must know:
• Hazards and risks
• Emergency response information-health hazards, fire or explosions
risks, firefighting methods, spill and leak containment, first aid
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In the event of an incident, the operator MUST notify
the carrier (trucking company/railroad).
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Package Marking
and Labeling
DOT regulations require that the package be marked with the proper
shipping name and identification number of the hazardous material
and the appropriate hazard class label affixed near the name, along
with other requirements.
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U.S. DOT labels (4”x 4”)
Labels are required on most
packages of hazardous
materials. However, there are
a number of specific
exceptions under the
regulations, so you cannot
rely on the lack of labels to
prove there is no hazardous
material.
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Additional Marking Requirements
Where the assigned proper shipping name does not give the technical
name of the chemical, it must also be marked on the package.
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Some materials have more than one hazard, which is represented by
subsidiary hazard labels on the package.
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Materials representing mixed hazards may be consolidated in the
same outside package and labeled appropriately.
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Authorized Label Modifications
Some labels may be modified under DOT and international provisions.
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Placards
on Vehicles or
Rail Cars
Placards are required on the front, back, and both sides of the transport
vehicle.
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U.S. DOT Placards (12”x 12”)
Placards are required on most
vehicles carrying hazardous
materials. However, there are
a number of specific
exceptions under the
regulations, so you cannot
rely on the lack of placards to
prove there is no hazardous
material.
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DANGEROUS Placard
The DANGEROUS
placard may be used in
place of most individual
DOT hazard class placards.
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Approved DOT
Placard
Modifications
Certain DOT placards may be modified to show the presence of a
specific hazardous material within a hazard class.
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Explosives Labeling and Marking
Older version of
explosives labels
used the letters A,
B, and C.
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Explosives 1.5
Blasting agents
packages
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Inhalation Hazard and Chlorine Cylinders
Labels on end of oneton cylinders with
proper shipping name
marked on body
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Primary and Subsidiary Hazard Labels
Older version of
inhalation hazard label
with subsidiary
corrosive hazard label
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Flammable Gas Class 3 Placards
Larger packages may
have placards
modified with the 4digit identification
number on the
placard itself.
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For irregular shaped packages,
labels may be of the “hang tag”
version.
Some cylinders may have a smaller
“neck band” style of label.
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Nonflammable Gas Hazard Class 2
Nonflammable gas
labels on small
compressed gas
cylinders with full-size
safety caps.
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Nonflammable Gas Placard
Nonflammable gas
placard on nurse tank
of anhydrous
ammonia fertilizer
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Flammable Liquid Hazard Class 3
Flammable liquid
placards with the
identification
number “1203” for
gasoline.
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Flammable Liquid Hazard Class 3 (cont’d)
There are a number
of specific DOT
exceptions that do
not require the 4”x
4” labels on all
packages.
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Flammable Solid Hazard Class 4
Flammable solid
highway flares
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Spontaneously Combustible Label
Spontaneously
combustible
hazard Class 4
label. White
phosphorous is a
common example
of these
chemicals, which
ignite on contact
with air.
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Calcium carbide with flammable
solid and dangerous when wet
labels
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Oxidizer Hazard Class 5
Oxidizer label on
granular dry
swimming pool
chlorine packages
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Organic Peroxide Hazard Class 5
Organic peroxide
hazard class 5
label
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Poison Hazard Class 6
Poison hazard class 6:
dry insecticide, may also
be an inhalation hazard
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Poison and Flammable Liquid Insecticide
Primary and
subsidiary hazard
labels on
flammable liquid
and poison liquid
insecticide
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Etiologic Agent Label
Etiologic agent
package, almost all
of which are shipped
by air. There is no
placard for this
material.
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Radioactive Material Hazard Class 7
Packages of
radioactive material
with labels
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Corrosive Material Hazard Class 8
Corrosive material
sulfuric acid highway
cargo tank
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Involving Hazardous Materials
Corrosive Material Hazard Class 8 (cont’d)
Package of muriatic
acid (hydrochloric
acid) swimming
pool pH reducer
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Hazard Class 9 Placard
Hazard class 9
miscellaneous
substances
placards are not
required on
highway
shipments, only
mandatory on rail
cars.
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U.S. DOT 2004 Emergency
Response Guidebook
DOT’s objective is to place a copy of
the ERG2004 in every emergency
service vehicle through distribution to
federal, state, provincial, and local
public safety authorities.
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One of 62 guide
pages listing safety
recommendations
and emergency
response
information. Each
guide covers a
group of materials
with similar
chemical properties.
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Use this table only
if you have not
been able to
identify the
material in
transport by ID
number or name.
Find the placard
on the transport
vehicle and turn
to the circled
guide pages.
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Rail Car Silhouette
Identification Chart With
Circled Recommended
Guide Pages
The recommended guides should
be considered as last resort if
product cannot be identified by
any other means.
Responding to
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Highway Road Trailer
Silhouette Identification
Chart With Circled
Recommended Guide
Pages
The recommended guides should be
considered as last resort if product
cannot be identified by any other
means.
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Additional information concerning
the use of the U.S. DOT 2004
Emergency Response Guidebook
will be covered in Unit 3 of this
course.
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Unit 3
Employer’s Emergency Response Plan, Site Security and
Control and Use Of U.S. Dot 2004 Emergency Response
Guidebook
Performance Objective
Demonstrate proficiency in the First Responder Awareness
competency of understanding the role of the first responder awareness
individual in the employer’s emergency response plan including site
security and control and the U.S. Department of Transportation's
Emergency Response Guidebook, as required by U.S. Occupational
Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) 29 Code of Federal Regulations
(29 CFR) Part 1910.120(q)(6)(i)(E).
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First Responder’s Role
“Initial Response Phase”
The role of the first responder awareness individual in the employer’s
emergency response plan after scene arrival, during which the presence
and/or identification of hazardous materials is confirmed, protective
actions and area securement are initiated and assistance of qualified
personnel is requested.
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Site Security and Control
- Avoid rushing in
- Approach incident from upwind
- Stay clear of all spills, vapors,
fumes, and smoke
Site security involves, without entering the immediate hazard area,
isolating the scene and assuring the safety of and the environment by
keeping people away from the scene and outside the safety perimeter.
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Site Security and Control (cont’d)
Others can’t be helped until the situation has been assessed.
• Is there a fire, a spill, or a leak?
• What are the weather conditions?
• What is the terrain like?
• Who/what is at risk: people, property, or the environment?
• What actions should be taken: Is an evacuation necessary?
Is diking necessary? What resources (human and equipment)
are required and readily available?
• What can be done immediately?
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Site Security and Control (cont’d)
Any efforts made to rescue persons, protect property or the
environment must be weighed against the possibility that you
could become part of the problem. Enter the area only when
wearing appropriate protective gear.
Above all do not walk into or touch spilled material. Avoid
inhalation of fumes, smoke, and vapors, even if no hazardous
materials are known to be involved. Do not assume that gases or
vapors are harmless because of lack of smell—odorless gases or
vapors may be harmful. Use caution when handling empty
containers because they may still present hazards until they are
cleaned and purged of all residues.
Responding to
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Involving Hazardous Materials
Site security and control placards, container labels, shipping
documents, material safety data sheets, rail car and road trailer
identification charts, and/or knowledgeable persons on the scene are
valuable information sources. Evaluate all available information and
consult the recommended guide to reduce immediate risks.
Additional information, provided by the shipper or obtained from
another authoritative source, may change some of the emphasis or
details found in the guide.
Remember, the guide provides only the most important and worst
case scenario information for the initial response in relation to a
family or class of hazardous materials. As more material-specific
information becomes available, the response should be tailored to the
situation.
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U.S. Department of Transportation
2004 Emergency Response
Guidebook
A guide to aid first responders in quickly
identifying the specific or generic
hazards of the material(s) involved in the
incident and protecting themselves and
the general public during the initial
response phase of the incident.
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ERG2004, page 1
“How to Use the Guidebook”
1. Find the 4-digit ID # or name on a
shipping paper, placard, or
package.
2. Find the 3-digit guide # in either the
numerical ID # or alphabetical
index.
3. Turn to the 3-digit guide (the
orange bordered pages), read, and
take action.
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Inside Front Cover
Information on shipping papers and
placards to aid in determining the
name of the hazardous material.
The shipping names are listed in the
blue-bordered alphabetical index
pages, 4-digit ID numbers in the
yellow-bordered numerical index
pages.
The 4-digit ID number may be on a
placard or an adjacent orange panel
on the ends and sides of the transport
vehicle or rail car.
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ID Number Index
Hazardous materials are on the
yellow-bordered pages and listed in
numerical order according to the 4digit identification (ID) number.
If the entry is highlighted in yellow, it
is a toxic inhalation hazard. Look up
the ID number and name in the Table
of Initial Isolation & Evacuation
Distances on the green-bordered
pages.
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Name of Material Index
Alphabetical listing by name of
material proper shipping name
assigned by U.S. DOT on the bluebordered pages.
If the entry is highlighted in blue, it
is a Toxic Inhalation Hazard. Look
up the ID number and name in the
Table of Initial Isolation &
Evacuation Distances on the greenbordered pages.
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Numbered guide safety
recommendations and
emergency response
information.
Each of the 62 guides
covers a group of
materials with similar
chemical properties.
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Hazard Classification System
Hazard class or division assigned by
U.S. DOT. The hazard class or division
number must be displayed in the lower
corner of the placards on the front,
back, and both sides of the transport
vehicle. The hazard class or division
number is on the shipping document
after the shipping name.
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Involving Hazardous Materials
Use this table
only if you have
not been able to
identify the
material in
transport by ID
number or name.
Find the placard
on the transport
vehicle and turn
to the circled
guide pages.
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Approach the incident cautiously from upwind to a point from which
you can safely identify and/or read the placard or orange panel
information. If wind direction allows, consider approaching the incident
from uphill. Use binoculars, if available.
Remember that the guides associated with the placards provide the
most significant risk and/or hazard information. When specific
information, such as ID number or shipping name, becomes available,
the more specific guide recommended for that material must be
consulted.
If Guide 111 is being used because only the DANGEROUS placard is
displayed or the nature of the spilled, leaking, or burning material is not
known, as soon as possible get more specific information concerning
the material(s) involved.
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Rail Car Silhouette
Identification Chart With
Circled Recommended
Guide Pages
The recommended guides should
be considered as last resort if
product cannot be identified by
any other means.
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Highway Road Trailer
Silhouette Identification
Chart With Circled
Recommended Guide
Pages
The recommended guides should be
considered as last resort if product
cannot be identified by any other
means.
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Using the Table of Initial
Isolation and Protective
Action Distances
The green-bordered tables list
chemicals that are toxic by inhalation to
people. The tables list the “Initial
Isolation Distance” and the
“Protective Action Distance” used to
establish site control.
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The “Initial Isolation Distance” is
where all persons are evacuated in
all directions from the actual spill.
The “Protective Action Distance” is
the distance downwind where
people are either evacuated or
sheltered in-place.
Look up the hazardous material by
its 4-digit identification number.
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Small spill=less than
55 gallons
Large spill=over 55
gallons
Sunrise to sunset=day
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Example
ID # 1005 ammonia,
anhydrous, small
spill, night
Initial isolation
zone=100 feet
Downwind protective
distance=0.1 mile
(528 feet)
200 ft
diameter
528 ft
ea side
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A large number of factors must be
considered in determining whether
to evacuate or shelter-in-place. If
there is enough time, evacuation is
the best protective action.
In specific emergencies, other
factors may need to be identified
and considered as well. This list
indicates initial decision information
that may be needed.
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First responders at the scene of a
hazardous materials incident should
seek additional specific information
about any material as soon as
possible.
The information received by
contacting the emergency response
number of the shipping document or
by consulting the information on or
accompanying the shipping document
may be more specific and accurate
than this guidebook in providing
guidance for the materials involved.
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Unit 4
Additional Resources and Notifications
Performance Objective
Demonstrate proficiency in the First Responder Awareness
competency of the ability to realize the need for additional resources
and to make appropriate notifications to the communication center as
required by U.S. Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA)
29 Code of Federal Regulations (29 CFR) Part 1910.120(q)(6)(i)(F).
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Realize the Need for
Additional Resources
If the shipping document lists an
emergency response telephone number,
call that number.
If a reference to a guide cannot be found and the incident is believed
to involve hazardous materials, turn to Guide 111 and use it until
additional information becomes available. If the shipping document is
not available or no emergency response telephone number is listed,
IMMEDIATELY CALL the appropriate emergency response agency
listed on the inside back cover of the ERG2004.
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ERG2004 is a guide to aid first responders in quickly identifying the
specific or generic hazards of the material(s) involved in the incident
and protecting themselves and the general public during the initial
response phase. It is not intended to provide information on the
physical or chemical properties of hazardous materials.
It should not be considered as a substitute for emergency response
training, knowledge, or sound judgment. ERG2004 does not address
all possible circumstances that may be associated with a hazardous
materials incident. It is primarily designed for use at an incident
occurring on a highway or railroad. Be mindful that there may be
limited value in its application at fixed facility operations.
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First responders at the scene of a hazardous materials incident
should seek additional specific information about any material in
question as soon as possible. Secure the area and call for the
assistance of trained personnel as soon as conditions permit.
Follow the steps outlined in your organization’s standard operating
procedures and/or local emergency response plan for obtaining
qualified assistance.
Notification of your organization/agency should result in the
dispatch of additional trained personnel to the scene. A call to the
emergency response telephone number listed on the shipping
document will give access to additional information on the materials
and mitigation actions.
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Make Appropriate Notifications
First responders are individuals who
discover a hazardous materials release
and are trained to initiate an emergency
response by notifying the proper
authorities of the release.
National assistance is available by contacting the appropriate
emergency response agency listed on the inside back cover of
ERG2004. The agency will provide immediate advice on handling the
early stages of the incident and contact the shipper or manufacturer
for more detailed information and request necessary on-scene
assistance.
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Provide as much of the following as can safely be obtained:
• Name, call back telephone number, fax number
• Location and nature of the problem (fire, spill, etc.)
• Name and identification number of material(s) involved
• Local emergency services that have been notified
• Local conditions (weather, terrain proximity to schools,
hospitals, waterways, etc.)
• Carrier name, rail car or truck number
• Shipper/consignee point of origin
• Quantity of material transported or released
• Container type and size
• Injuries and exposures
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Inside Back Cover
Emergency Contacts
National 24-hour emergency response
communications services, toll-free numbers
CHEMTREC
1-800-424-9300
CHEM-TEL, INC
1-800-255-3924
INFOTRAC
1-800-535-5053
3E COMPANY
1-800-451-8346
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National Response Center
(NRC)1-800-424-8802
The NRC, which is operated by the U.S. Coast Guard, receives
reports when hazardous materials are spilled. The NRC will
immediately notify the appropriate Federal On-Scene Coordinator
and concerned federal agencies. Federal law requires that anyone
who releases into the environment a reportable quantity of a
hazardous material (including oil when water may be affected) or a
material identified as a marine pollutant, must immediately notify the
NRC. Calling other emergency response telephone numbers
(CHEMTREC, etc) does not constitute compliance with requirements
to call the NRC.
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Military Shipments
For assistance at incidents involving
shipments by, for, or to the Department of Defense, call
one of the following numbers 24-hours a day:
Incidents involving explosives and ammunition
(call collect): 1-703-697-0218
Incidents involving hazardous materials other
than explosives and ammunition: 1-800-851-8061
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Nationwide Poison
Control Center
Emergency and information calls are
answered by the nearest Poison
Control Center.
Call toll-free, 1-800-222-1222, 24hours a day
Responding to
Trucking and Rail Incidents
Involving Hazardous Materials
Unit 5
Chemical and Biological Agents and
Radioactive Materials
Performance Objective
Demonstrate proficiency in understanding the possible
criminal/terrorist use of chemical, biological (CB) agents and/or
radioactive materials as discussed in the ERG2004.
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Possible criminal/terrorist use
of chemical, biological (CB)
agents and/or radioactive
materials
Pages 354–357 of the ERG2004 list the
differences between a chemical and
biological agent and radioactive
materials; gives indicators of a possible
chemical, biological, or radiological
incident; and discusses personal safety
considerations and decontamination
measures.
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Chemical and Biological Differences
Chemical incidents are characterized by the rapid onset of medical
symptoms (minutes to hours) and easily observed signatures (colored
residue, dead foliage, pungent odor, dead insects and animals).
Biological incidents are characterized by the onset of symptoms in
hours to days. Typically, there will be no characteristic signatures
because biological agents are usually odorless and colorless.
Because of the delayed onset of symptoms in a biological incident, the
area affected may be greater due to the movement of infected
individuals.
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Radiological incidents are characterized by the onset of
symptoms, if any, in days to weeks or longer. Typically, there
will be no characteristic signatures because radioactive
materials are usually odorless and colorless. Specialized
equipment is required to determine the size of the affected area, and
whether the level of radioactivity presents an immediate or long-term
health hazard. Because radioactivity is not detectable without special
equipment, the affected area may be greater due to the migration of
contaminated individuals.
At the levels created by most probable sources, not enough radiation
would be generated to kill people or cause severe illness. In a
radiological incident generated by a “dirty bomb,” or Radiological
Dispersal Device (RDD), in which a conventional explosive is
detonated to spread radioactive contamination, the primary hazard is
from the explosion. However, certain radioactive materials dispersed
in the air could contaminate up to several city blocks, creating fear and
possibly panic, and requiring potentially costly cleanup.
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Indicators of a Possible Chemical
Incident
Dead animals/birds/fish: Not just an occasional
road kill, but numerous animals (wild and domestic,
small and large), birds, and fish in the same area.
Lack of insect life: If normal insect activity (ground, air, and/or water)
is missing, check the ground/water surface/shore line for dead
insects. If near water, check for dead fish/aquatic birds.
Unexplained odors: Smells may range from fruity to flowery to
sharp/pungent to garlic/horseradish-like to bitter almonds/peach
kernels to new mown hay. It is important to note that the particular
odor is completely out of character with its surroundings.
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Unusual numbers of dying or sick people (mass casualties): Health
problems including nausea, disorientation, difficulty in breathing,
convulsions, localized sweating, conjunctivitis (reddening of
eye/nerve agent symptoms), erythema (reddening of skin/vesicant
symptoms), and death.
Pattern of casualties: Casualties will likely be distributed
downwind, or if indoors, by the air ventilation system.
Blisters/rashes: Numerous individuals experiencing unexplained
water-like blisters, weals (like bee stings), and/or rashes.
Illness in confined area: Different casualty rates for people working
indoors versus outdoors dependent on where the agent was
released.
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Unusual liquid droplets: Numerous surfaces exhibit oily
droplets/film; numerous water surfaces have an oily film. (No
recent rain.)
Different looking areas: Not just a patch of dead weeds, but trees,
shrubs, bushes, food crops, and/or lawns that are dead, discolored,
or withered. (No current drought.)
Low-lying clouds: Low-lying cloud/fog-like condition that is not
consistent with its surroundings.
Unusual metal debris: Unexplained bomb/munitions-like material,
especially if it contains a liquid.
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Indicators of a Possible
Biological Incident
Unusual numbers of sick or dying people or animals: Any number of
symptoms may occur. Casualties may occur hours to days after an
accident has occurred. The time required before symptoms are
observed is dependent on the agent used.
Unscheduled and unusual spray being disseminated: Especially if
outdoors during periods of darkness.
Abandoned spray devices: Devices may not have distinct odors.
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Indicators of a
Possible
Radiological Incident
Radiation symbols: Containers may display a “propeller” radiation symbol.
Unusual metal debris: Unexplained bomb/munitions-like material.
Heat-emitting material: Material that is hot or seems to emit heat without any
sign of an external heat source.
Glowing material: Strongly radioactive material may emit or cause
radioluminescence.
Sick people/animals: In very improbable scenarios there may be unusual
numbers of sick or dying people or animals. Casualties may occur hours to days
or weeks after an incident has occurred. The time required before symptoms are
observed is dependent on the radioactive material used and the dose received.
Possible symptoms include skin reddening or vomiting.
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Personal Safety Considerations
When approaching a scene that may involve CB agents or
radioactive materials, the most critical consideration is the safety of
oneself and other responders. Protective clothing and respiratory
protection of appropriate level of safety must be used. Be aware that
the presence and identification of CB or radioactive materials may
not be verifiable, especially in the case of biological or radiological
agents. The following actions/measures to be considered are
applicable to either a chemical, biological, or radiological incident.
The guidance is general in nature, not all encompassing, and its
applicability should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
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Approach and response strategies: Protect yourself and use a safe
approach; minimize any exposure time and maximize the distance
between you and the item that is likely to harm you. Use cover as
protection and wear appropriate personal protective equipment and
respiratory protection. Identify and estimate the hazard by using
indicators as provided above. Isolate the area and secure the scene;
potentially contaminated people should be isolated and
decontaminated as soon as possible. To the extent possible, take
measures to limit the spread of contamination. In the event of a
chemical incident, the fading of chemical odors is not necessarily an
indication of reduced vapor concentration. Some chemicals deaden
the senses giving the false perception that the chemical is no longer
present.
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If there is any indication that an area may be contaminated
with radioactive materials, including the site of any nonaccidental explosion, responder personnel should be
equipped with radiation detection equipment that would
alert them if they are entering a radiologically compromised
environment and should have received adequate training in its use.
This equipment should be designed in such a way that it can also alert
the responders when an unacceptable ambient dose rate or ambient
dose has been reached.
Responding to
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Decontamination measures: Emergency responders should follow
standard decontamination procedures (flush-strip-flush). Mass
casualty decontamination should begin as soon as possible by
stripping (all clothing) and flushing (soap and water). If biological
agents are involved or suspected, careful washing and use of a
brush are more effective. If chemical agents are suspected, the
most important and effective decontamination will be that done
within the first 1 or 2 minutes. If possible, further decontamination
should be performed using a 0.5% hypochlorite solution (1 part
household bleach mixed with 9 parts water). If biological agents are
suspected, a contact time of 10 to 15 minutes should be allowed
before rinsing. The solution can be used on soft tissue wounds, but
must not be used in eyes or open wounds of the abdomen, chest,
brain, or spine. For further information contact the agencies listed
in the ERG2004.
Responding to
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For persons contaminated with radioactive material,
remove them to a low radiation area if necessary. Remove
their clothing and place it in a clearly marked sealed
receptacle, such as a plastic bag, for later testing. Use
decontamination methods previously described, but avoid
breaking the skin (e.g., from shaving or overly vigorous brushing).
External radiological contamination on intact skin surface rarely
causes a high enough dose to be a hazard to either the contaminated
person or the first responders. For this reason, except in very unusual
circumstances, an injured person who is also radiologically
contaminated should be medically stabilized, taking care to minimize
the spread of the contamination to the extent possible, before
decontamination measures are initiated.
Responding to
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Chemical and Biological Agents and Radioactive
Materials
NOTE: The above information was developed in part by the
Department of National Defense (Canada) and the U.S. Department
of the Army, Edgewood Arsenal.
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End of Hazardous Materials Course.
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