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S A F E T Y F I R S T

HAZMAT Awareness

Learning Manual

Edition 2

June 2008

This learning manual has been published for use within CFA.

It has been developed having regard to current CFA occupational health and

safety manual handling guidelines and Safety First principles.


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First published November 2002 in Australia by Learning Systems, Learning and Development, CFA Headquarters,

8 Lakeside Drive, Burwood East, Victoria 3151.

CFA 2008

Other than that permitted under the Copyright Act1968, no part of this publication may be reproduced by any means

without written permission from the Country Fire Authority Victoria. Enquiries should be addressed to the publisher.

For any matters relating to this publication, contact: Manager Learning Systems, Learning and Development, CFA

Headquarters, 8 Lakeside Drive, Burwood East, Victoria 3151.

CFA acknowledges the assistance and contributions of its members, volunteer and staff, in the

development of this learning manual.

S A F E T Y F I R S T

HAZMAT Awareness


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Edn 2 June 2008 S A F E T Y F I R S T i

HAZMAT Awareness

Contents

Foreword ...................................................................................................................................1

Overview ...................................................................................................................................3

Introduction ...............................................................................................................................................3

Relationship to Competency Standards ...................................................................................................3

Outcomes .................................................................................................................................................3

Prerequisites .............................................................................................................................................3

Co-requisites ............................................................................................................................................3

Related Resources ...................................................................................................................................4

How You Might Be Assessed ....................................................................................................................4

Chapter 1: Emergency Management.......................................................................................5

Classifying Hazardous Materials ..............................................................................................................5

Emergency Management Structure ..........................................................................................................6

Incident Controller ....................................................................................................................................9

Summary .................................................................................................................................................11

Self Assessment ......................................................................................................................................13

Chapter 2: Preparedness .......................................................................................................15Environment and Occupancy .................................................................................................................15

Pre-incident Plan.....................................................................................................................................15

Location of the Incident ..........................................................................................................................16

Hazards at an Incident ............................................................................................................................17

Conducting a Hazard Assessment .........................................................................................................18

Visual Signs and Indicators ....................................................................................................................19

Summary .................................................................................................................................................21

Self Assessment ......................................................................................................................................23

Chapter 3: Responding to a Hazardous Materials Incident ................................................25

Approaching the Scene ..........................................................................................................................25

Exposure Hazards ...................................................................................................................................29

Decontamination ....................................................................................................................................33

Securing the Scene ................................................................................................................................34

Establishing Incident Control ..................................................................................................................36

Summary .................................................................................................................................................39

Self Assessment ......................................................................................................................................41


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ii S A F E T Y F I R S T Edn 2 June 2008

HAZMAT Awareness

Contents

Chapter 4: Hazardous Materials Identification ....................................................................45

Importance of Identification ....................................................................................................................45

Naming and Numbering Conventions ....................................................................................................47

Container Markings and Colours ............................................................................................................50

Dangerous Goods Class Labels ............................................................................................................52

Packing Groups ......................................................................................................................................63

Placards and Labels ...............................................................................................................................63

The HAZCHEM Code (Emergency Action Code) ...................................................................................67

Transport Documentation .......................................................................................................................72

Storage Manifest (Emergency Information Book) ..................................................................................73

ADR RID ..................................................................................................................................................74

National Fire Protection Association Code (USA) ..................................................................................75

Summary .................................................................................................................................................77

Self Assessment......................................................................................................................................79

Chapter 5: Dealing with Hazardous Materials ......................................................................83

Dangerous Goods Initial Emergency Response Guide .........................................................................83

HAZMAT Incident Assessment (HIA Form/Board) ..................................................................................84

HAZMAT Action Guides (HAG) ...............................................................................................................86

Electronic Databases ..............................................................................................................................88

Safety Data Sheets ..................................................................................................................................88

Safe Storage and Handling Information Cards .......................................................................................90

Emergency Procedure Guides ...............................................................................................................90

Technical Advice .....................................................................................................................................91

Summary .................................................................................................................................................93

Self Assessment......................................................................................................................................95

Self Assessment Answers .....................................................................................................97

Chapter 1: Emergency Management ......................................................................................................97

Chapter 2: Preparedness........................................................................................................................97

Chapter 3: Responding to a Hazardous Materials Incident .................................................................100

Chapter 4: Hazardous Materials Identification .....................................................................................102

Chapter 5: Dealing with Hazardous Materials ......................................................................................104

Glossary of Terms ................................................................................................................105


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Edn 2 June 2008 S A F E T Y F I R S T 1

HAZMAT Awareness

Foreword

Firefighters responding to an incident should always be prepared for the presence of

hazardous materials. Many of the materials found in common daily use have the potential to

present a hazard to health and or the environment. Hazardous materials, or hazmats as they

are commonly referred to, may be present in households or commercial properties.

Large quantities of these materials are regularly transported by road and rail. For this reason,

any incident has the potential to involve hazardous materials. From the time of first notification

and turnout, firefighters need to give consideration to what their first actions will be in the event

that they encounter hazardous materials at the incident scene.

Whenever the presence of a hazardous material at an incident is suspected, firefighters must

first consider:

what is this material?F

how can it affect me?F

how can I protect myself and others from it? andF

how can we deal with it?F

It is essential that firefighters do not make ill-informed decisions. If there is any doubt, it is

recommended that aggressive actions be deferred until expert advice is available.

Firefighters must always remember that the first responsibility in any situation involving

hazardous materials is safety the safety of firefighters and the safety of the community.


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Notes

2 S A F E T Y F I R S T Edn 2 June 2008

HAZMAT Awareness


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HAZMAT Awareness

Overview

Introduction

This learning manual has been developed

to provide you with the knowledge

required to protect emergency services

personnel and the public from exposure to

hazardous materials that may be present

at an incident. (Hazardous materials is

a generic term used to refer to an incidentinvolving dangerous goods and hazardous

substances.)

This manual contains information about:

HAZMAT legislation;F

hazardous materials information sources;F

identification of hazardous materials;F

assessing hazards and risks;F

safe storage and handling;F

responding to an incident whereF

hazardous materials are present; and

carrying out an emergencyF

decontamination.

This manual also contains:

self assessment exercises and/or activities;F

and

a glossary (a list of terms and acronymsF

used in this manual and their meanings).

Relationship to Competency

Standards

This material provides underpinning

knowledge associated with a unit of

competency in the Public Safety Training

Package July 2000 Ver. 4.00, specifically:

PUAFIR306A Render hazardousF

materials incidents safe.

For further information on the competency

standards refer to CFAs Brigades Online

website.

Outcomes

On successful completion of the HAZMAT

Awareness training, you will be able to:identify hazardous materials;F

use hazardous materials informationF

sources to identify appropriate initial

actions

assist with establishing hazard isolationF

zones; and

assist with the emergency decontaminationF

of victims.

Prerequisites

PUAOHS002A Maintain Safety at an

Incident Scene.

Co-requisites

Nil


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HAZMAT Awareness

Overview

Related Resources

Further resources may be developedto support your learning. To identify the

resources available, search the Bookshelf on

the Brigades Online website using the title

and key terms from this publication.

The Bookshelf also contains the current CFA

policies and procedures. Familiarity with

these will enable you to appropriately apply

your learning.

How You Might Be Assessed

Below are some ideas of how a qualified

Assessor might assess your competence in

this unit. Use these sample assessments to

help prepare you for summative assessment.

You may be assessed by:

observation in a practical situation;F

answering oral questions or demonstratingF

knowledge and skill in a given situation;

in a written form; orF

a combination of the above.F


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HAZMAT Awareness

Chapter 1

Emergency ManagementCFA has been identified as the control agency for incidents involving hazardous

substances or dangerous good. Most hazardous materials (hazmats) incidents are small

in nature and are easily handled by first responding crews with little need for extra or

outside assistance.

Occasionally, major incidents occur which present unusual hazards, span a large area

or involve a large number of fire service personnel and which therefore require input

and assistance from other agencies. Emergency management legislation ensures that

all emergency agencies involved in a HAZMAT response have clearly defined roles andresponsibilities and can work cooperatively during an emergency response.

This chapter covers:

classifying hazardous materials;F

the emergency management structure and relevant legislation; andF

the incident controller..F

Classifying HazardousMaterials

Dangerous goods

Dangerous goods are substances that

may be corrosive, flammable, explosive,

spontaneously combustible, toxic, oxidizing,

radiological, biological, water-reactive or

gases under pressure or liquified. These

goods can be deadly and can seriouslydamage property and the environment.

TheAustralian Dangerous Goods (ADG)

Code deals with transportation of dangerous

goods. The Dangerous Goods Act1985 deals

with the storage, handling and transportation

of dangerous goods in Victoria and provides

implementation of the ADG Code.

Hazardous substancesHazardous substances are substances with

the potential to harm health. They can be

gases, liquids or solids, and be either pure

substances or a mixture.

Hazardous substances are classified

according to their long- and short-term health

effects, while dangerous goods are classified

by their immediate physical and/or chemical

effects.

Be aware that substances not generally

thought of as being hazardous may become

an issue depending on the amount involved,

the quantity and/or location at the time of an

incident.

For example, a spilt load of milk may not

normally be thought of as a hazardous

materials incident.


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HAZMAT Awareness

Chapter 1: Emergency Management

However, when that milk is spilt inside a

sensitive ecosystem, such as a catchment

area, it will allow the bacteria to multiply asthey break down the milk. This process puts

a demand on the oxygen supply in the water.

Aquatic life and bacteria compete for

available oxygen and, as a result, the water

may be unable to support the aquatic life.

In this case, a load of material that is not

normally considered to be hazardous has,

because of its quantity and location, created

an incident.

Hazardous materials

The term hazardous materials includes

dangerous goods, hazardous substances,

scheduled poisons, listed wastes, radioactive

substances and environmental pollutants.

Hazardous materials are any substances

that are assessed by an emergency

service (based on information gathered) as

likely to endanger people, property or the

environment.

Hazardous materials incident

A hazardous materials incident involves the

actual or impending spillage or release of

a hazardous material, in sufficient quantity

to pose a danger to life, property or the

environment. A hazardous materials incident

may occur during manufacture, use,

handling, transport or storage of hazardous

materials.

Emergency Management

Structure

Emergency Management Act

The Emergency Management Act1986 is the

legislative power which calls for a State Emer-

gency Response Plan. The Act is supported by

the Emergency Management Manual Vic. The

Emergency Response Plan is a component of

the Emergency Management Manual Vic.

The Emergency Management Act1986

provides a legislative basis for integrated and

comprehensive prevention, response and

recovery planning, involving preparedness,

operational coordination and community

participation, in relation to all hazards.

It defines the emergency management

structure, assigns roles and responsibilities,

and provides for special needs concerned

with the management of emergencies. The

Act defines response as the controlling of

emergencies and the provision of rescue and

immediate relief services.

Control

Support

Section 3

Emergency

Management Manual Vic

Control

CFA Act

Emergency

HAZMAT

Emergency

Management Act

Section 20A Section 30

Incident

Who is in charge?

What amI allowed to do?

Figure 1 emergency management structure


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HAZMAT Awareness


Emergency ManagementManual Vic

The Emergency Management Manual Vic

ensures that the prevention, response

and recovery components of emergency

management are organised within a

structure, which facilitates planning,

preparedness, operational coordination and

community participation.

It identifies the organisational arrangements

for managing the response to emergencies

within, or with the potential to affect, theState of Victoria and applies to all agencies

having roles or responsibilities in response to

those emergencies.

The coordinator of the State Emergency

Response Plan is the Chief Commissioner of

Police.

The powers of the Chief Commissioner are

delegated to a Police Officer on scene who

will coordinate all support.

Emergency response coordinators are

responsible for:

preparedness planning;F

liaison;F

ensuring appropriate control structure;F

coordinating requests for resources;F

community safety; andF

media liaison.F

Emergency response agencies are

designated by the Emergency Management

Manual Vic, in respect of particular types of

emergencies, as either control or support

agencies as per the table below.

EmergencyControl Agency

(may vary by location)Support Agencies

Accident

Aircraft Victoria PoliceAusSAR, ATSB, CFA/MFESB/

VICSES

Biological materials DHS Public Health

Boilers and pressure vessels CFA/MFESB WorkSafe

Hazardous materials ordangerous goods

CFA/MFESB EPA, WorkSafe

Lifts, cranes or scaffolding CFA/MFESB WorkSafe

Marine Victoria Police MBV

Military aircraft and ships Defence ForcesAusSAR, Victoria Police,

MFESB/CFA

Radioactive materials DHS Public Health EPA

Rail and tram Victoria PoliceODPT/VicTrack, CFA/MFESB/

VICSES

Road Victoria Police CFA/MFESB/VICSES, VicRoads

Fire and Explosion

Aircraft ARFS/CFA/MFESB ATSB

Explosion CFA/MFESB

Explosive device Victoria Police

Fire CFA/MFESB/DNRE Parks Victoria

Gas leakage CFA/MFESB Gas distribution companies


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HAZMAT Awareness


Control agency

A control agency is the response agencynominated to control the response activities

for a specified type of emergency. In Part 6 of

the Emergency Management Manual Vic, CFA

has been identified as the control agency for

accidents involving hazardous materials or

dangerous goods.

Support agency

A support agency provides essential

services, personnel or material, to support

or assist a control agency, or another

support agency, or persons affected by an

emergency.

The role of support agencies at a hazardous

materials incident are as follows.

Victoria Police (VICPOL)F responsible for

coordinating the incident, including traffic

and crowd control, and evacuations if

necessary.

Ambulance Services, Victoria (MAS,F

RAV) responsible for providing

emergency medical intervention and

casualty transportation.

WorkSafe Victoria (Victorian WorkCoverF

Authority) determines industrys

compliance with legislation.

Environment Protection Authority (EPA)F

provides advice to the control authority

on the potential environmental impact.

The relevant water authorities for eachF

area provide the control authority with

adequate water supply and information

on the reticulated system.

State Emergency Service (SES)F

provides support to the control authority.

Technical specialistsF provide specialist

advice about chemicals, or containers of

chemicals, therefore assisting planning

and anticipating results.

Company representativesF provide

information about a particular workplace

and its hazards.

Department of Human Services (DHS)F

needs to be notified in the event of aradiological or biological incident.

CFA Act

CFA obtains its powers to respond to and

manage hazardous materials incidents

from the following sections of the CFA Act:

Sections 3, 20A, 30 and 97.

The Chief Officer has prepared StandardOperating Procedures for response to

hazardous materials incidents.

The following is a list of SOPs relevant to

HAZMAT (including CBR) incidents at the

time of publishing this manual:

5.03 Protective Equipment;F

9.08 Health Support Team (HST);F

9.31 Welfare of CFA Members;F

10.03 Asbestos Incidents;F

10.05 Bomb Incidents;F

10.06 Chemical Biological RadiologicalF

Response;

10.07 Clandestine Drug Laboratories;F

10.08 Disease and/or Pest Control F

Operations Involving;


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HAZMAT Awareness


10.09 HAZMAT Response;F

10.13 Marine Response;F

10.15 Pollution Spills Into Inland Waters;F

11.01 Infection Control at Incidents;F

11.02 Medical Monitoring Biological andF

Hazardous Substances; and

11.03 Personal Protective Clothing.F

Incident Controller

The Crew Leader of the first arriving crew

assumes control as Incident Controller. The

Incident Controller is normally appointed by

the control agency. The Incident Controller

has the overall responsibility for emergency

response operations.

The appropriate Police coordinator should

be advised as soon as practicable of the

appointment of an overall Incident Controller.Discussion should include the initial assess-

ment of the potential of the incident and any

other immediate requirements.

The Incident Control Point will be the focus

for the inter-agency liaison for a small or

developing incident. For a large or complex

incident, involving numerous agencies, an

Incident Control Centre will be the focal point

for the inter-agency liaison.

The control structure should expand in

accordance with the principles of AIIMS, as

with every other type of incident.

CFA response to a HAZMAT incident is

covered in more detail in Chapter 3.

Figure 2 chain of command

CoordinationSupports incident control throughaccessing external resources

Agencies involved in incident

ControlOperates across agencies

Command

Commandoperatesvertically

withintheManagementStructure

IncidentManag

ement


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Notes


HAZMAT Awareness


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HAZMAT Awareness

Chapter 1

Summary

Dangerous goods are substances thatF

may be corrosive, flammable, explosive,

spontaneously combustible, toxic,

oxidizing, radiological, biological or water

reactive.

Hazardous substances are substancesF

with the potential to harm health. They can

be gases, liquids or solids, and be either

pure substances or a mixture.

Hazardous materials include dangerousF

goods, hazardous substances, scheduled

poisons, listed wastes, radioactive sub-

stances and environmental pollutants.

TheF Emergency Management Act1986

is the legislative power, which calls for aState Emergency Response Plan.

TheF Emergency Management Manual Vic

identifies the organisational arrangements

for managing the response to emergencies

within, or with the potential to affect, the

State of Victoria.

Control agencyF agency nominated to

control response activities for a specified

type of emergency.

Support agencyF provides essential serv

ices, personnel, or material to support

or assist a control agency or another

support agency, or persons affected by an

emergency.

Support agencies at a hazardous materialsF

incident may include:

Victoria Police;

Ambulance Services, Victoria;

WorkSafe Victoria (Victorian WorkCover

Authority);

Environmental Protection Authority;

relevant water authorities for each area;

State Emergency Service;

technical specialists;

company representatives; and

Department of Human Services.

An Incident Controller has overallF

responsibility for emergency response

operations.


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HAZMAT Awareness


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HAZMAT Awareness

Figure A chemical drum floating down a creek Figure B workplace chemical spill

Chapter 1

Self Assessment

True or False ( box)

1 A hazardous materials incident involves the actual or impending spillage or release of a

hazardous material in sufficient quantity to pose a danger to life, property or the environment.

True False

2 The Emergency Management Act1986 does not provide a legislative basis for prevention,

response and recovery.

True False

3 A control agency is defined as the response agency nominated to control the response

activities for a specified type of emergency.

True False

4 The Incident Controller is responsible for the overall command and control of fire service

personnel only.

True False

Activity1 Identify the support agencies that may be required to assist with the following incidents:

i chemical drum floating down a creek (Figure A); and

ii workplace chemical spill (Figure B).

Discuss the answers with your Trainer.

If you require any assistance with this material see your Brigade Training Officer or Training Manager.


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Notes


HAZMAT Awareness


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HAZMAT Awareness

Chapter 2

PreparednessBefore arriving on scene at an incident you may have already received information that

will assist you in determining your approach and the type of hazards you are likely to

encounter. Knowing the location of the incident and the environment involved, will allow

you to start to plan what action may need to be taken when you initially arrive on scene.


environment and occupancy;F

pre-incident plans;F

location of the incident;F

hazards at an incident;F

conducting a hazard assessment; andF

visual signs and indicators.F

Environment and Occupancy

The type of building involved and the

nature of the business being conducted

may provide some clues as to the type

and location of substances at the site. The

following are examples of buildings likely to

contain hazardous materials:

manufacturing plants;F

factories;F

hospitals;F

plant nurseries;F

hardware shops;F

swimming pool shops;F

petrol stations/depots;F

rural supply outlets;F

farms;F

warehouses;F

transport depots; andF

water treatment plants.F

Pre-incident Plan

A pre-incident plan should be drawn up

following a risk assessment of an identified

special risk within a brigade area. Pre-

incident plans may include informationabout:

the location, type and quantity ofF

dangerous goods or substances in the

immediate area;

the storage and use of these substances;F

manufacturing sites;F

transportation routes;F


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HAZMAT Awareness

Chapter 2: Preparedness

communication procedures for accessingF

information about dangerous goods and

substances;

available resources; andF

SOPs.F

A current pre-incident plan for a site will

provide you with valuable information about

it and any materials contained within. Use the

pre-incident plan to guide your actions.

Remember, not all hazardous substances are

dangerous goods. When conducting a risk

assessment, do not limit yourself to simply

identifying dangerous goods class labels.

Location of the Incident

Past experience with transportation accidentsalso indicates where to expect hazardous

materials problems. Each mode of

transportation, such as highways, rail, water,

air, and pipeline, have particular locations

where frequent accidents occur.

Highways

Accidents are likely at, but not limited to, the

following places:

designated truck routes;F

blind intersections;F

Figure 3 type of map that may be found in a pre-incident plan


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HAZMAT Awareness


areas frequently congested by traffic;F

heavily travelled roads; andF

steep grades.F

Rail


following places:

depots and terminals;F

steep grades and severe curves;F

shunts and sidings; andF

uncontrolled crossings.F

Water


following places:

bridges and other crossings;F

piers, jetties, wharfs and docklands;F

loading stations; andF

treatment plants.F

Air


following places:

fuelling ramps;F

repair and maintenance hangers; andF

freight terminals.F

Pipelines


following places:

exposed crossings, over waterways orF

roads; and

pumping stations.F

Hazards at an Incident

Hazards that may be encountered at ahazardous materials incident include:

ThermalF hazards related to extremes

of temperature e.g. thermal harm

resulting in frostbite can be a problem

during exposures to the extremely low

temperatures associated with liquefied

gases and cryogenic substances.

MechanicalF hazards resulting from

direct contact with fragments scattered

because of container failure, explosion or

shock wave. Mechanical injuries are also

associated with unstable loads collapsing

or slipping near equipment. Mechanical

hazards may also include noise, which

makes communication difficult and may

cause long-term damage, and vibration,

which may cause equipment and tools to

move.

Toxic (poisonous)F substances liable to

cause either death, serious injury or harm

to human health if swallowed, inhaled or

absorbed through the skin e.g. many of

the agricultural and veterinary chemicals.

CorrosiveF substances which destroy

living tissue or cause chemical burns after

sufficient exposure e.g. acids and alkalies.AsphyxiantF hazards related to a lack of

oxygen supply from the lungs to the blood

stream e.g. inert gases.


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RadiologicalF radiation sources that

can cause short- and long-term injury to

individuals and long-term genetic effectsto future generations e.g. radioactive

substances.

BiologicalF micro-organisms and viruses

that may cause disease.

Conducting a Hazard

Assessment

Assessing the hazards or potential hazards

(potential for human injury or damage

to property and/or the environment) at

an incident is a critical component of an

effective response. When assessing the

hazards, you should consider the following

points as outlined in the Dangerous Goods

Initial Emergency Response Guide:

is there a fire?F

is there smoke or fumes?F

is there a spill or leak? How large is it?F

are there casualties?F

is containment necessary?F

what are the local weather conditions,F

current and predicted?

what is the terrain like?F

what is at risk people, property or theF

environment?

how significant is the risk based on theF

situation, the hazards of the products

(from classes and subsidiary risks) and

their degree of danger (based on packing

groups)?

is public protection necessary?F

protect in place (keep the public withinF

buildings or other shelters) or evacuate?

what resources (human and equipment)F

are required and are readily available?

what management methods can be usedF

to minimise the effects and contain the

incident with the minimum of loss or

damage? and

what is the immediate danger zone?F

Note: Risk assessment is a dynamic process

and should be reviewed whenever the

situation changes.

START What is goingon and what

are thehazards?

1HAZARDS

What do Iplan to do?

2PLAN

What are therisk of what Iplan to do?

3RISKS

What can I doto make it

safe?

4SAFETY

What do Ineed tomonitor?

5MONITORING

Figure 4 the five step model for dynamic risk assessment


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HAZMAT Awareness


Visual Signs and Indicators

At some incidents involving hazardousmaterials there may not be any formal way to

identify the types of materials involved. While

most incident will be accidental, responders

may at some stage be confronted with a

deliberate or hostile release of a chemical,

biological or radiological materials. While the

possibility of a deliberate incident is low, the

consequence of such an incident would be

great. Responders would need to exerciseextreme care in these circumstances.

Tangible indicators that may assist in

identifying that hazardous materials are

involved in the incident include:

spreading vapour cloud;F

sight of fish, birds or insects dying in theF

vicinity; and

personnel displaying symptoms (e.g.Fdizziness and vomiting or victims

collapsed at the scene).

Indicators that can be seen or heard from

a distance and indicate that hazardous

materials may be involved include:

rainbow sheen on water surfaces;F

visible vapours over a volatile liquid;F

containers deformed by the force of anF

accident;

operation of pressure relief devices;F

pinging or popping of heat-exposedF

containers;

extraordinary fire conditions;F

distinctively coloured vapour clouds;F

smoking or self-igniting substances; andF

unexpected deterioration of equipment.F

When viewing the incident scene through

binoculars you may notice the following

indicators:

frost near a leak;F

spattering or boiling of unheatedF

substances;

peeling or discoloration of a containersF

finish; and

peculiar smells.F

Note: If you can see, hear or smell any of

these indicators, you are probably too close

to the incident.

Figure 5 indicator (from a distance)

Figure 6 indicator (close up using binocular)


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Notes


HAZMAT Awareness


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HAZMAT Awareness

Chapter 2

Summary

Buildings likely to contain hazardousF

materials include:

manufacturing plants;

factories;

hospitals;

plant nurseries;

hardware shops;

swimming pool shops;

petrol stations/depots;

rural supply outlets;

farms;

warehouses;

transport depots; and

water treatment plants.

Pre-incident plans can provide additionalF

information to assist in conducting the

hazard assessment.

Frequent accidents involving hazardousF

materials occur on the following:

highways;

rail;

water;

air; and

pipelines.

Hazards that may be encountered at aF

hazardous materials incident include:

thermal;

mechanical;

toxic (poisonous);

corrosive;

asphyxiant;

radiological; and

biological.

Assessing the hazards or potential hazardsF

at an incident is a critical component for an

effective response.

Visual signs and chemical indicatorsFof hazardous substances that may be

noticed from a distance include:

rainbow sheen on water surfaces;

visible vapours over a volatile liquid;

containers deformed by the force of an

accident;

operation of pressure relief devices;

pinging or popping of heat-exposed

containers;

extraordinary fire conditions;

distinctively coloured vapour clouds;

smoking or self-igniting substances; and

unexpected deterioration of equipment.


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Notes


HAZMAT Awareness


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HAZMAT Awareness

Chapter 2

Self Assessment

Short Answer

1 List three types of occupancy that are likely to contain hazardous materials.

i ...........................................................................................................................................

ii ...........................................................................................................................................

iii ...........................................................................................................................................

2 Describe the information you would expect to find in a pre-incident plan.

...................................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................................

3 List seven hazards that may be encountered at a hazardous materials incident.

i ...........................................................................................................................................

ii ...........................................................................................................................................

iii ...........................................................................................................................................

iv ...........................................................................................................................................

v ...........................................................................................................................................

vi ...........................................................................................................................................

vii ...........................................................................................................................................

4 List five factors that should be considered when conducting a hazard assessment.

i ...........................................................................................................................................

ii ...........................................................................................................................................

iii ...........................................................................................................................................

iv ...........................................................................................................................................

v ...........................................................................................................................................


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5 List four pieces of information that the public or personnel may be able to inform you

about.

i ...........................................................................................................................................

ii ...........................................................................................................................................

iii ...........................................................................................................................................

iv ...........................................................................................................................................

6 List five indicators of hazardous material involvement at an incident.

i ...........................................................................................................................................

ii ...........................................................................................................................................

iii ...........................................................................................................................................

iv ...........................................................................................................................................

v ...........................................................................................................................................

If you require any assistance with this material see your Brigade Training Officer or Training Manager.


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HAZMAT Awareness

Chapter 3

Responding to a HazardousMaterials Incident

Every incident to which you respond is potentially a hazardous materials incident until

determined otherwise. While no two hazardous materials incidents are the same, there

are a series of procedures that you can implement to protect yourself and the public from

exposure to hazardous materials.


approaching the scene;F

exposure hazards;F

decontamination;F

securing the scene; andF

establishing incident control.F

Approaching the SceneSuccess or failure in controlling a HAZMAT

incident will depend largely on the ability

of the Incident Controller to conduct, often

under adverse conditions, an effective size-

up of the situation.

Size-up involves the consideration of:

facts;F

probabilities;F

own situation;F

decision; andF

plan.F

In the initial stages of a response wherehazardous materials are suspected, you

should carefully consider:

what pre-incident plans are available;F

what information you have received aboutF

the incident;

what further information you require;F

whether the incident is endangering life orF

property;

what the current local weather conditionsF

are, for example

wind direction and strength;

temperature (hot or cold); and

rain;

what the topography is like flat,F

undulating, porous;


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HAZMAT Awareness

Chapter 3: Responding to a Hazardous Materials Incident

the environment flora, fauna, waterF

courses and atmosphere;

what the most appropriate direction is fromF

which to approach the incident;

utility services, communication pits,F

sewerage and storm water; and

support identified in pre-plans.F

Information provided by public or

personnel on scene

Information provided by eye witnesses or

other personnel at the incident or scene,

including other emergency or support

services may assist in size-up. Ensure

they are not contaminated and do not

contaminate you.

These people may be able to inform you

about:

events leading up to the incident;F

substances involved;F

substance location;F

emergency procedures already initiated;F

location of personnel involved; andF

location of emergency information.F

When receiving information from any of these

sources, you should record details receivedand if possible validate their accuracy. This

information will assist the crew leader in

planning the response.

Initial considerations

It is important to remember that HAZMATproducts present unique hazards requiring

specialist equipment and response

techniques. If an incident is not approached

in the correct way, and the vehicle is placed

too close to the site or in a downwind

position, then the crew may become

casualties and the vehicle may become

involved in the incident.

Firefighters responding to a HAZMATincident:

must never rush into action;F

unnecessarily expose themselves toF

HAZMAT products; or

use the body senses such as taste, smellF

or touch to assist in identifying dangerous

goods and/or dangerous substances.

The Incident Controller will conduct a

size-up on arrival at an incident and this

will determine the actions of emergency

personnel throughout the response.

In a hazardous materials incident, an

immediate aggressive attack may not

be appropriate. Firefighters or other

responders should resist the urge to

rush in and commence rescue or fire

suppression activities. Strategies such as

RECEO (Rescue, Exposures, Confinement,

Extinguishment and Overhaul) should be

used with caution in a hazardous materials

incident.

Note: Remember that every incident is

potentially a hazardous materials incident

unless otherwise determined.


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General precautions

To ensure safety there are a number ofgeneral precautions that should be observed

at any suspected HAZMAT incident. The

acronyms RISK and DANGER are used

to remind emergency personnel of these

precautions when approaching a hazardous

material incident:

RISKF

Recognise.

Identify/isolate.

Secure.

Keep out.

DANGERF

Dont enter smoke, gas or vapour clouds.

Approach carefully.

No closer than 70 m.

Gather information, using binoculars.

Examine further, only if necessary with

protective clothing.

Retreat if necessary.

The accurate identification of hazardous

materials at an incident is critical to an

effective response. There are various

methods for identifying dangerous goodsand hazardous substances.

To conduct a safe approach, you should

comply with the following points.

Approach the scene using care andF

caution. Approach from upwind and from

high ground whenever possible to avoid

coming into contact with hazardous areas.

At all times, follow the correct procedures

for identifying hazardous materials. It is not

appropriate to use your senses to identify

a hazard. If you are close enough to

smell, feel or hear a problem, then you are

possibly too close to an incident.

Keep a safe distance.F Remain at least

70 m from the scene until you have

clearly identified the hazard potential.

Should you enter closer, you may become

contaminated by toxic substances, smoke

or vapour clouds, or be exposed to other

dangers, and run the risk of becoming a

casualty. All resources, including people

and vehicles, need to be kept at a safe

distance to minimise the possibility of

contamination.

Identify the dangerous goods byF

indirect means from a safe distance,

where possible.Check labels and

placards and safety information boards

(which may document evacuation routes,

areas of high hazard and their locations).

These will indicate:

whether dangerous goods are indeed

involved;

the possible class of good(s);

UN number;

correct shipping or trade name; and

HAZCHEM code.


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HAZMAT Awareness


If it is a mixed load or storage, these

documents will indicate the combination

of classes of dangerous goods. Checkingby indirect means will also ensure that

you remain at a safe distance and are

not exposed to any potentially harmful

substances.

Note: Always assume that the most

hazardous materials in the load or store are

involved in the incident.

By assuming that the most hazardousmaterials in the load or store are involved

in the incident, the precautions taken will

ensure the safety of all involved. When

identifying the products, always access

available sources of information such as

plant managers, technical specialists,

drivers of the transport vehicle, etc.

Assess the hazardsF (such as toxic fumes)

and the risks (ignition source) involved and

notify your Communications Centre of the

safest route, if any, for other responding

appliances, emergency services and

resources required.

Follow the principle of least exposure:F

expose the least number of people;

expose people for the least amount of

time;

expose people to the least amount of

material; and

wear the appropriate levels of protective

clothing and equipment.

For all people, the principle of least

exposure will mean NIL exposure.

Often hazardous materials situations are

made worse by rushing in. Attempting

to do something without knowledge,

planning or appropriate equipment

can result in serious or critical injuries,

and lead to difficulties in controlling the

incident.

Figure 7 firefighter identifying HAZMATfrom a safe distance


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HAZMAT Awareness


Exposure Hazards

You can be exposed to hazards directly orindirectly.

Direct exposure hazards

Hazardous materials can contaminate a

person through the following routes of

exposure:

inhalation;F

absorption;F

ingestion;F

injection; orF

radiation.F

Inhalation of hazardous materials

Contamination via inhalation occurs with the

entry of vapours or toxic substances into

the body through the respiratory system.It is often the most damaging because

substances can enter the blood stream

immediately upon entering the lungs and

exert toxic effects on other organs. Inhalation

is the most common exposure route and

the lungs in particular can sustain damage

through inhalation.

Avoiding exposure

To prevent the inhalation of hazardous

materials it is critical that breathing apparatus

(BA) equipment is used when working

in hazardous, or potentially hazardous,

atmospheres.

In addition to BA the following precautions

should be observed:

maintain a safe distance;F

utilise position uphill/upwind;F

know the hazmats properties e.g. vapourF

density (heavier/lighter than air); and

consult Safety Data Sheets (previouslyF

referred to as Material Safety Data

Sheets)/guidebooks for approximate safe

distances.

Absorption of toxic substances

Toxic substances can enter the body through

the pores of the skin, through the eyes and

especially through mucous membranes.

Cuts and abrasions can also provide waysfor toxins to enter the body.

Note: Absorption can occur without the

firefighters knowledge

Avoiding exposure

To prevent the absorption of toxic substance

through the skin, eyes or mucous

membranes, emergency personnel must

wear the correct level of PPE for the type of

hazardous materials involved in the incident

(gloves, boots, goggles, splash suit, gas

suit and breathing apparatus). Goggles are

essential to prevent absorption through the

eyes where liquids, vapours or gases are

involved.

Note: Certain chemicals can adhere contact

lenses to the surface of the eye.

In addition the following precautions should

be observed:

maintain a safe distance;F

utilise position uphill/upwind;F

know the hazmats properties e.g. specificF

gravity (will it float on water), will it dissolve

in water (miscible/soluble);


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HAZMAT Awareness


remain outside spill area;F

avoid touching bare skin; andF

do not rub the eyes.F

Ingestion of toxic substances

Toxic substances can be ingested (enter the

body) through the mouth.

Avoiding exposure

To prevent the ingestion of toxic substances

emergency personnel should not eat, drinkor smoke at incidents involving hazardous

materials.


be observed:

avoid exposure by wearing appropriateF

protection;

consider personal hygiene; andF

dont drink or eat until properlyFdecontaminated.

Note: If ingestion occurs, read SDS/

guidebooks for action to take and seek

immediate urgent medical attention.

Injection of toxic substances

Toxic substances can be injected into the

body via contaminated sharp objects such

as metal syringes and via high-pressure

sources such as compressed air.

Avoiding exposure

To prevent the accidental injection of toxic or

biologically contaminated substances into

the body the correct protective clothing must

be worn.


be observed:

avoid unnecessary contact with sharpF

objects;

wear double gloves;F

dispose of sharps correctly; andF

cover sharp objects and jagged edges.F

Exposure to radiation

Radiation emission levels vary from very

low to very high. The degree of injury to a

person from radiation varies with the type of

radiation, amount of exposure and whether it

is a one-time exposure or an accumulation ofexposures. Injuries from excessive exposure

may not become apparent for days, weeks,

months or even years.

Avoiding exposure

Radiation (protection must include):

minimum exposure time;F

keep a safe distance;F

use appropriate shielding;F

use specialised personal protectiveF

clothing and equipment; and

seek technical specialist advice.F


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Indirect exposure hazards

Indirect hazards include:

temperature extremes;F

noise;F

dehydration (prolonged gas suit wearing);F

fatigue, physical and mental (includingF

critical incident stress);

claustrophobia (from working in confinedF

spaces);

blast pressure waves;F

vibration; andF

oxygen depleted or enriched atmospheres.F

Forms of exposure

Exposure can take two forms:

acute exposure usually has a toxic effectF

on the victim over a short period of time,may or may not cause instant death; and

chronic exposure this is more long-termF

and usually includes industry workers

exposed over a long period of time.

You should be alert to any symptoms of

acute exposure. These symptoms may

include the following:

changes in respirationF

difficultyin breathing, increase or decrease in

respiration rate, tightness of the chest,

irritation of the nose and throat, and/or

respiratory arrest;

changes in consciousnessF dizziness,

light-headedness, drowsiness, confusion,

fainting and/or unconsciousness;

abdominal distressF nausea, vomiting

and/or cramping;

changes in activity levelF fatigue,

weakness, stupor, hyperactivity,

restlessness, anxiety, giddiness and/or

faulty judgement;

visual disturbancesF double vision,

blurred vision, cloudy vision, burning of the

eyes and/or dilated or constricted pupils;

skin changesF burning sensations,

chemical burns, lesions, ulcers, reddening,paleness, fever and/or chills;

changes in excretion or thirstF

uncontrolled tears, profuse sweating,

mucus flowing from the nose, diarrhoea,

frequent urination, bloody stool and/or

intense thirst; and

painF headache, muscle ache, stomach

ache, chest pain and/or localised pain at

sites of substance contact.

Note: Personnel or members of the public

exposed to hazardous substances or

dangerous goods (or displaying symptoms

of acute exposure) must call for immediate

urgent medical attention.

Not all chemical exposures result in

immediate symptoms. Many symptoms may

not appear until hours, days, weeks or longerafter the exposure. Some symptoms may not

be apparent to the person suffering them,

but may be observed by unaffected persons.


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HAZMAT Awareness


HEADsolvent, heat exhaustion, eyestrain, noise, gases, vapours

EARSExcessive noise

CHEST & LUNGScotton dust, TDI, detergent

enzymes, beryllium, solvents,long-term exposure to mineral dust(e.g. asbestos), metal oxides from

welding, gases, vapours

STOMACH & INTESTINESvapours, fumes,

ingested substances

BONESexcessive vibration,constant dampness

SKINsolvents, epoxies, oil, fibreglass,

caustic soda, nickel, mineral oils,arsenic, pitch, tar, radiation

EYESsmoke, grease, fumes, acids,

ultraviolet radiation

NOSE AND THROATammonia, caustic soda, dust,resins, solvents

MUSCLES & BACKexcessive or improper lifting

REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEMlead, pesticides, radiation,polystyrene production, xylene,some solvents, benzene, mercury,anaesthetic gas

NERVOUS SYSTEMnoise, shift work, metal poisoninge.g. lead, mercury

HEADdizziness, headache

EARSringing, temporary deafness,

hearing loss

CHEST & LUNGSwheezing, congestion, shortness

of breath on mild exercise, flu-like

symptomsSTOMACH & INTESTINES

vomiting, diarrhoea

BONESarthritis

SKINredness, dryness, itching,

ulcers, skin cancer

EYESredness, irritation, watering, grainyfeeling, welders flash

NOSE AND THROATsneezing, coughing, sore throat,nasal cancer

MUSCLES & BACKsoreness, strain

REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEMmiscarriage, irregularities inmenstruation, damage to foetus orchromosomes, sterilization

NERVOUS SYSTEMstress, nervousness,irritability, sleeplessness,

tremors, speech changes

How does yourbody react?

What can affect

your body?

Figure 8 the effects of various substances on the body


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HAZMAT Awareness


Decontamination

There are four levels of decontamination thatmay be used in responding to HAZMAT/CBR

incidents.

Level 1 emergency decontamination;

Level 2 emergency services

decontamination;

Level 3 mass decontamination; and

Level 4 bulk decontamination systems.

The size of the incident, the numbers of

victims and the types of hazardous materials

involved in the incident will determine the

required level of decontamination response

that is needed.

Level 1 emergency decontamination may

be undertaken by first responders at the

scene while waiting for HAZMAT specialist

personnel and equipment to arrive.

Levels 2 4 decontamination techniques

are undertaken by HAZMAT response

specialists.

In the event of a HAZMAT incident, casualties

may be sufficiently mobile to exit the

contaminated area without assistance. In

these instances, first responders on-scene

may need to perform a Level 1 emergencydecontamination.

The decontamination equipment available to

do this will generally be limited to whatever

is present on the first responders appliance

e.g. hose lines and hose reels.

Note: First responders who are not part of a

specialized HAZMAT response team should

not enter contaminated areas.

Emergency decontaminationprinciples

Emergency decontamination incorporates

the following principles:

strip;F

wash; andF

cover.F

Once a casualty has been decontaminated,

first aid can be performed and medical

attention provided if required.

Emergency decontamination

procedure

When carrying out an emergency

decontamination, adhere to the following

procedure in order to minimize the spread of

contaminants:

isolate the risk to prevent furtherF

casualties;

exit victims to an emergencyF

decontamination area;

disrobe the victim down to their underwearF

(bag and tag clothing);

wash the victim by flushing with water;F

apply emergency first aid if required;F

cover the victim with blanket or otherF

clothing to prevent hypothermia and

provide them a degree of dignity;

seek medical attention; and,F

record details of any personnel exposed toF

contaminants.


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HAZMAT Awareness


Using available equipment, the firefighter can

perform an emergency decontamination as

shown below.

During emergency decontamination, large

volumes of water should be used; however,

high pressure water spray must be avoided

to prevent damage to the eyes or skin.

Although speed is essential to remove or

reduce the risk to persons who have become

accidentally contaminated, it is important that

fire service personnel rendering assistance

do not themselves become seriously affected

by the same hazards through failure to wear

appropriate protective clothing and breathing

apparatus.

Caution should be taken not to spread the

contaminant to unaffected areas.

Emergency first aid

The aim of emergency first aid is to provide

immediate treatment to exposed persons

without exposing emergency workers.

Note: First aid should not be attempted until

the casualty has been decontaminated.

Securing the Scene

Where the presence of a hazardous materialis suspected, the operational priority is to

isolate the scene and deny entry. Securing

the scene in this way is necessary for

gaining control of the incident and protecting

emergency personnel and the public. Two

steps should be followed:

Step 1 isolate the affected area.F

This involves determining which area

is immediately affected or at risk, thenisolating it, removing all persons in the

area. In most incidents, once the situation

has been assessed and appropriate advice

taken, there is no need for further action to

protect the public other than establishing

this zone.

An initial isolation zone can be established

using barrier tape or other suitable

materials to create an outer perimeteraround the HAZMAT scene. The Initial

Emergency Response Guide (IERG)

details suitable distances for the perimeter

based on the type of hazardous material

involved.

Note: Personnel or members of the public

should not be permitted to pass through

this outer perimeter into the isolation

zone without the approval of the incident

controller.

Figure 9 wetting disrobed victim


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HAZMAT Awareness


Step 2 take protective action.F

Further action may sometimes be

necessary to protect the public fromthe risks associated with more severe

incidents. These risks may include fire,

explosion, smoke, fumes or toxic gases.

Evacuation is not the only available option

and, for the majority of dangerous goods

incidents, it may not be the preferred

option.

The options are protect in place (keep the

public inside buildings) and evacuate.

Protect in place

In the protect in place strategy, the public is

immediately directed inside a building and

advised to remain indoors until the danger

passes. Always consider this option because

of its simplicity and ease of implementation.

It requires less human resources than

evacuation.

Houses and other enclosed buildings can

provide a source of uncontaminated air,

which may give protection for a considerable

time. Some contaminated air will penetrate,

but the level of contamination will be

significantly less than outside.

As poisoning is a factor of both concentration

and exposure time, there is normally less risk

staying indoors, than outdoors.

Protect in place is the preferred option for

many fires or spillages, since the danger to

the public has often reached its maximum

before the emergency services arrive. In

such cases, attempting an evacuation will

unnecessarily increase the publics exposure

to smoke or fumes.

Protect in place if:

there is not enough time to evacuate theF

public before the hazard affects the area;

and

the incident and hazard are likely to beF

short duration (up to an hour or so).

Do not protect in place if:

the fumes or vapours present a risk ofF

explosion or a danger to health;

it will take a long time for the fumes toF

clear the area; and

the buildings cannot be tightly closed.F

If the decision is taken to protect in place,

then the public should be advised to:

close all doors and windows, using blindsF

and curtains if fitted;

shut off all ventilating, heating and coolingF

systems;

remain in the side of the building furthestF

from the incident; and

tape or seal the gaps in or aroundF

windows, doors and ventilation ducts

before the smoke or fumes become

uncomfortable.

If there is a continued release of smoke

or fumes over a long period, it may benecessary to organise a systematic

evacuation through the contaminated

atmosphere. The initial protect in place

decision will, however, allow time to muster

the resources needed for a full systematic

evacuation.


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HAZMAT Awareness


After the smoke or fumes have dispersed

from the area, the buildings will retain

contaminated air. As soon as the area ismade safe, advise the sheltering public to

move outside and ventilate their buildings.

Evacuate

In an evacuation, the public is moved

from a threatened area to a safer place. It

is not sufficient to simply move them and

allow them to congregate at the incident

perimeter. Move them by a specific route

to a definite location where they will not

need to be moved again if the wind shifts or

circumstances change.

To perform an evacuation, there must be

enough time for the public to be warned to

prepare to leave the area. Generally, if there

is enough time, evacuation is likely to be the

best protective option. However, evacuation

requires time and human resources. It may

place those being evacuated at risk and

cause them suffering and stress.

Evacuation is the preferred option if:

there is an immediate threat of fire,F

explosion or building collapse;

there is time to evacuate before aF

threatening toxic gas leak occurs;

it will take a long time for the fumes toF

clear from the area; or

the buildings will not provide suitable inF

place protection.

An evacuation requires a coordinated

response and, depending on the size of the

incident, may involve the:

Police;F

State Emergency Service;F

MERO Municipal Emergency ResponseF

Officer; and

Red Cross for registration purposes.F

Establishing Incident ControlAn Incident Control Point (ICP) must be set

up at a hazardous materials incident. The

size of the ICP will vary according to the size,

duration and severity of the incident. When

establishing an ICP, the following factors

must be considered:

it must be a suitable distance away fromF

the scene so that it is free from possible

contamination;

it must be easily identifiable so that crewsF

and other emergency services arriving at

an incident can quickly locate its position;

and

it must be within radio range of theF

incident.

The ICP must also be accessible to other

emergency services. They may need to

establish their own incident command

centres to coordinate their role. It is desirable

that the control centres, if not immediately

adjacent, are accessible to each other.

Incident planning takes into account the

extended roles of other agencies throughout

the duration of an incident.


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HAZMAT Awareness


Control zones

After the first responding emergencypersonnel have isolated the incident,

control zones can be set up. These zones

(hot, warm and cold) define the areas of

involvement and areas of potential spread.

An outline of the three zones is illustrated

below. They can be marked using natural

or man-made barriers, restricted area tape,

hoses or rope.

All three zones are defined and controlled bythe Incident Controller. The size of each zone

depends on the extent and severity of the

incident, and the physical layout of the area.

Note: Control zones are usually established

after sufficient specialist resources have

arrived on scene.

In some instances, gas detection equipment

might be required to determine the actual

area of the zone.

Note: The actual layout and shape of the

zones will be determined by wind direction,

topography and the physical layout of the site.

Hot zone an area of likely contamination,

usually situated on the edge of the incident

where contaminant levels are consideredsufficiently high to threaten life and

safety. Only personnel equipped with the

appropriate PPE and other equipment may

enter.

Warm zone an area immediately

surrounding the hot zone where

decontamination commences. Near the

boundary of the hot zone, contaminants may

still be at a level that can pose an exposure

risk to unprotected personnel.

Cold zone an area immediately

surrounding the warm zone. Access to the

cold zone is restricted to support agencies.

Site control, casualty treatment area and

marshalling/assembly areas are generally

established in the cold zone.

Establishing control zones generally require

additional personnel, the use of protective

clothing, decontamination procedures and

air monitoring instruments.

Be aware that direct action to control the

incident before adequate resources are in

attendance (including technical information

or specialist advice) may make the situation

worse. Once sufficient information andresources are available, you must conduct a

safe approach and then take the appropriate

control actions.

Figure 10 isolation perimeter and control zones

WARM ZONE

HOTZONE

COLDZONE

INCIDENT

CONTROL

STAGING

DECONTAMINATION

INITIALISOLATIONZONE


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Notes


HAZMAT Awareness


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HAZMAT Awareness

Chapter 3

Summary

The success or failure in controlling aF

HAZMAT incident will depend largely on

the ability of the Incident Controller to

conduct a size-up of the situation.

The public or personnel on-scene mayF

inform you about:

events leading up to the incident;

substances involved;

substance location;

the location of personnel involved;

emergency procedures already in place;

and

location of emergency information.

Fire suppression activities and strategiesF

such as RECEO should be used with

caution at a hazardous materials incident.

When responding to any hazardousF

materials incident it is important that you

conduct a safe approach.

To conduct a safe approach you should:F

approach the scene using care and

caution;

keep a safe distance (70 m);

identify the dangerous goods by indirect

means from a safe distance;

assess the hazards; and

follow the principle of least exposure.

Hazardous materials can contaminateF

people through:

inhalation;

absorption;

ingestion;

injection; and

radiation.

Exposure can:F

have a toxic effect on the victim over a

short period of time (acute exposure)

may or may not cause instant death; or

be more long-term (chronic exposure),

such as industry workers exposed over

a long period of time.

There are four levels of decontaminationF

adopted by the fire services:

Level 1 emergency decontamination;

Level 2 emergency services

decontamination;

Level 3 mass decontamination; and

Level 4 bulk decontamination systems.

The principles of emergencyF

decontamination for a victim are:

strip;

wash; and

cover.


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HAZMAT Awareness


Once a casualty has beenF

decontaminated, first aid can be

performed and medical attention providedif required.

Securing the scene is necessary forF

gaining control of an incident and

protecting the public. Two steps should be

followed:

Step 1 isolate the affected area.

Step 2 take protective action.

The options for protective action are:F

protect in place; and

evacuate.

At a hazardous materials incident, anF

Incident Control Point (ICP), must be set

up to monitor operations and coordinate

firefighters and other emergency

personnel at the scene.

During the early stages of an incident it isF

important to establish control zones.

An initial isolation zone can be establishedF

using barrier tape or other suitable

materials to create an outer perimeter

around the HAZMAT scene.

Establishing control zones generallyF

require additional personnel, the use

of protective clothing, decontamination

procedures and air monitoring

instruments.


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HAZMAT Awareness

Chapter 3

Self Assessment

Short Answer

1 List five considerations in the initial stages of a response where hazardous materials are

suspected.

i ...........................................................................................................................................

ii ...........................................................................................................................................

iii ...........................................................................................................................................

iv ...........................................................................................................................................

v ...........................................................................................................................................

2 In relation to scene approach what do the following acronyms mean?

R ...........................................................................................................................................

I ...........................................................................................................................................

S ...........................................................................................................................................

K ...........................................................................................................................................

and

D ...........................................................................................................................................

A ...........................................................................................................................................

N ...........................................................................................................................................

G ...........................................................................................................................................

E ...........................................................................................................................................

R ...........................................................................................................................................


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HAZMAT Awareness


3 List seven precautions you can take to avoid exposure at a hazardous materials incident.

i ...........................................................................................................................................

ii ...........................................................................................................................................

iii ...........................................................................................................................................

iv ...........................................................................................................................................

v ...........................................................................................................................................

vi ...........................................................................................................................................

vii ...........................................................................................................................................

4 List five symptoms of chemical exposure.

i ...........................................................................................................................................

ii ...........................................................................................................................................

iii ...........................................................................................................................................

iv ...........................................................................................................................................

v .............................................................

lm hazmat awareness edn2 june08 a4

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