safety and health awareness for oil spill cleanup workers

WORKER EDUCATION & TRAINING PROGRAM

National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences Oil Spill Cleanup Initiative

Safety and Health Awareness for Oil Spill Cleanup Workers

June 2010, v7 OSHA 3388-062010

1-800-321-OSHA (6742)

This book is provided by:

This booklet was developed by the National Clearinghouse for Worker Safety and Health Training. The National Clearinghouse is funded by the National Institute of Environmental Health

Sciences’ Worker Education and Training Program. The National Clearinghouse is operated under NIEHS contract 273-05-C-0017 by MDB, Inc.

http://tools.niehs.nih.gov/wetp

The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences’ (NIEHS) Worker Education and Training Program (WETP) supports the training and education of workers engaged in activities related to hazardous materials and waste generation, removal, containment, transportation and emergency response. The WETP conducts training through a network of cooperative agreements with nonprofit organizations. The WETP includes basic hazardous waste worker, minority worker, Brownfields, Department of Energy nuclear weapons complex, and national emergency preparedness training components.

Published in coordination with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

If you have questions or to report safety and health concerns call OSHA at 1-800-321-OSHA (6742). It’s confidential. We can help.

http://www.osha.gov

Oil_Spill_Booklet_06.10

Worker education & training Program

NIEHS Oil Spill Cleanup Training Tool

1

Oil spill cleanup workers can face potential hazards from oil byproducts, dispersants, detergents and degreasers. Drowning, heat illness and falls also pose hazards, as can encounters with insects, snakes and other wild species native to the impacted areas. In these situations, OSHA goals include ensuring that workers receive appropriate training and protective equipment. This training tool was developed by National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, as a health and safety resource for those who will participate in an oil spill response and cleanup.

PLEASE NOTE: For information from OSHA on worker safety guidelines during oil spill cleanup, visit http://www.osha.gov. This web page includes information from federal and other sources intended to protect the health and safety of workers. Please check back often; we will continue to update the page with the most current information. For additional oil spill cleanup information go to: http://tools.niehs.nih.gov/wetp/index.cfm?id=2495

Material contained in this publication is in the public domain and may be reproduced, fully or partially, without permission. Source credit is requested but not required. This information will be made available to sensory impaired individuals upon request. Voice phone: (202) 693-1999; teletypewriter (TTY) number: 1-877-889-5627.

Preface



2

Table of Contents

Preface ............................................................. 1Employer Responsibilities and Worker Rights .................................................. 5At the end of this awareness-level training.............................................................. 6Advanced/Additional Training Required for Those Involved in an Oil Spill .................... 7Module 1: Introduction to Oil Spill Cleanup .. 9

National Contingency Plan ......................... 10

Unified Command ...................................... 11

Health and Safety Plans ............................. 12

HASP (continued) ....................................... 13

OSHA’s Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response Standard (HAZWOPER).............................................. 14

HAZWOPER Requirements that Apply to Marine Oil Spills .......................................... 15

Proper Instruction for Cleanup Workers .... 16

Hazardous Materials and Hazard Communication .......................................... 17

Emergency in the Field ............................... 18

The FIRST Priority is to Protect Yourself .... 19

Physical Environment ................................. 21

Module 2: Heat Injury Prevention ................. 22The Hazards of Heat Exposure .................. 23

Factors Increasing the Hazard ................... 24

Recognizing Heat Injury ............................. 25

Respond Rapidly to All Heat Injury............. 26

Preventing Heat Injury ................................ 27

Work and Rest Cycles ................................ 28

Adjust to the Heat....................................... 29

Fluid Intake ................................................. 30

Additional Risk Factors .............................. 31

Urine Output Color Chart ........................... 32

Module 3: Oil Spill Cleanup and Health Concerns ............................................ 33

What is an Oil Spill? ................................. 34

What is Crude Oil? ..................................... 35

What is in the Crude Oil from this Spill? ..... 36

Occupational Exposure Limits (OEL) .......... 37

Crude Oil .................................................... 38

Module 1: Introduction to Oil Spill Cleanup .................................................. 11Module 2: Heat Injury PreventionModule 3: Oil Spill Cleanup and Health Concerns ............................................ 24Module 4: Other Cleanup Health and Safety Issues .......................................... 79



3

table of contents

Weathered Crude Oil .................................. 39

Health Risks of Weathered Crude Oil ......... 40

Tarballs ....................................................... 42

Health Risks of Tarballs .............................. 43

Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) ............................... 45

Occupational Exposure Limits for NO2 ....... 46

Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) .................................... 47

Gasoline and Diesel Fuels .......................... 48

Diesel Combustion Exhaust ....................... 49

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) ................................. 50

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Exposure .............. 51

What Happens When the Oil Reaches Shore? ........................................................ 52

Environmental Damage .............................. 54

Habitat Affected ......................................... 55

Equipment Used ......................................... 56

Containment Boom .................................... 57

Oil Skimmer ................................................ 58

Other Equipment ........................................ 60

Methods of Cleanup ................................... 61

Bioremediation ........................................... 62

Chemical Dispersants ................................ 63

COREXIT (Nalco) EC9500A, EC9527A ....... 64

COREXIT (Nalco) 9500 ............................... 65

COREXIT (Nalco) EC9527A ........................ 66

Controlled Burning ..................................... 67

Shoveling .................................................... 69

High-pressure Hot Water ............................ 70

How Do Chemicals Enter Your Body? ........ 73

Contact/Absorption .................................... 74

Inhalation .................................................... 75

Ingestion ..................................................... 76

Injection ...................................................... 77

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Protection ................................................... 78

Working Near the Water ............................. 79

PPE Protection for Shoreline Cleanup Operations .................................................. 80

PPE Examples ............................................ 81

Level C........................................................ 82

Level D ........................................................ 83

How Can You Protect Yourself from Hazardous Chemicals? .............................. 85

Respirators ................................................. 86

Tips for Using PPE ..................................... 88



4

Basics of Decontamination: Types of Contamination ............................................ 89

Module 4: Other Cleanup Health and Safety Issues .......................................... 96

Sunburn ...................................................... 97

Eye Injuries ................................................. 98

Noise Exposure .......................................... 99

Slips, Trips and Falls ................................. 100

Vehicle and Boat Use ............................... 101

Heavy Equipment ..................................... 103

Trench Foot (Immersion Foot) .................. 104

Poisonous Plants ..................................... 105

Insects and Insect-borne Diseases ......... 106

Animals and Animal-borne Diseases ....... 108

Alligators ................................................... 110

Snakes and Other Reptiles ....................... 111

Other Protective Measures ...................... 112

Fatigue and Stress ................................... 113

Summary ...................................................... 116Information Sources .................................... 117OSHA Regional Offices ............................... 118Notes ............................................................ 120

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employer and W

orker responsibilities

Employer Responsibilities and Worker RightsEmployers have responsibilities and workers have rights under the OSH Act.

• TheOccupationalSafetyandHealthActrequiresthatemployersprovideasafe and healthful workplace free of recognized hazards and follow OSHA standards. Employers must also provide training and required protective equipment.

• Workersmustfollowtheemployer’ssafetyandhealthrulesthatcomplywith OSHA standards and wear or use all required gear and equipment. Workers are encouraged to report hazardous conditions to a supervisor and report hazardous conditions to OSHA if employers do not fix them.



6

At the end of this awareness-level training you will be able to:

• Explainwhatanoilspillis

• Understandthecharacteristicsofoilandtherisksassociatedwithoilspills

• Describethecharacteristicsofaspillresponse

• Describehowtoidentifyandcontrolhazardsduringtheresponseandclean-up phases of an oil spill

• Describetheroleofafirstresponderawarenesslevelindividualinresponseto an oil spill



7

Advanced/Additional Training Required for Those Involved in an Oil Spill

• ThistrainingtooldoesNOT replace the additional duty specific training or PPE specific training requirements.

• Regardlessofworkscope,manytopicscoveredinthisawarenesstrainingtool have corresponding OSHA standards—such standards must be met in order to safely and legally perform associated job duties.

• Cleanupworkersshouldalwayskeepinmindthatwhenindoubtaboutthesafety of an activity, stop what you are doing and ask questions. Be sure you are safe before continuing.

• ContacttheNIEHSNationalClearinghouseforWorkerSafetyandHealthTraining for more information http://tools.niehs.nih.gov/wetp.

• IfyouhavequestionsortoreportsafetyandhealthconcernscallOSHAat1-800-321-OSHA (6742).



8

When in doubt about the safety of an activity, stop what you are doing!

Be sure you are safe before continuing.



9

module 1Module 1

Introduction to Oil Spill Cleanup



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National Contingency Plan

The federal government’s blueprint for responding to both oil spills and hazardous substancereleases.TheNationalContingencyPlan is the result of the country’s efforts to develop a national response capability and promote overall coordination among the hierarchy of responders and contingency plans.

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Unified Command

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FOSC

SOSC

RPIC

Agency Representatives

• FOSC – Federal On-Scene Coordinator

• SOSC – State On-Scene Coordinator

• RPIC – Responsible Party In Charge



12

Health and Safety Plans

OSHA has regulations that require employers to have detailed Health and Safety Plans (HASP) to protect workers involved in cleanup operations.* The HASP serves as a guide for employers and workers to follow during their daily operations to prevent the spread of contamination, injury, and death.

Review your employer’s HASP before you start work!

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*OSHA, 29 CFR 1910.120(b)(4)(ii)



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HASP (continued)

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This document covers some HASP sections that may be used during an oil spill response. The site safety section includes general information from several of the HASP sections listed below.

All HASPs must cover all of the following:

• Introduction

• KeyPersonnel

• HazardAssessment

• Training

• PPE

• TemperatureExtremes

• MedicalSurveillance

• ExposureMonitoringand Air Sampling

• SiteControl

• Decontamination

• EmergencyResponse/ContingencyPlan

• EmergencyActionPlan

• ConfinedSpaceEntry

• SpillContainment



14

OSHA’s Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response Standard (HAZWOPER)

• Activitiesrelatedtostoppingtheoilspillorcontainingthespilledoilareconsidered “emergency response” activities under OSHA’s Hazardous WasteOperationsandEmergencyResponse(HAZWOPER)standard,29CFR1910.120and1926.65.

• Inaddition,cleanupsitesmaybeconsideredormaybecomehazardouswaste sites and should follow the requirements for hazardous waste sites underHAZWOPER,requiringspecifictrainingandcontrolmeasures,ifcertain criteria apply. Shoreline cleanup is considered “post-emergency clean-up operations.”

• Furthermore,ifHAZWOPERconflictsoroverlapswithanyotherOSHAstandard, the provision more protective of employee safety and health must be followed.

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HAZWOPER Requirements that Apply to Marine Oil Spills

• Marineoilspillcleanupisorganizedandmanagedaccordingtotheregulations found in the National Oil and Hazardous Substance Pollution ContingencyPlan(NCP)at40CFR300.

• ResponseactionsconductedundertheNCPmustcomplywiththeprovisionsofHAZWOPER.

• SeespecificallytheHAZWOPERprovisionsinparagraph(q)(Emergencyresponse operations) and paragraph (q)(11) Post-emergency response cleanup operations.

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Proper Instruction for Cleanup Workers

Personnel should be given:

• AninitialbriefingutilizingtheSiteSafetyPlanorNIMSassignmentformatthe site prior to their participation

• Abriefingonemergencyproceduresunderthesite-specificHASP

• Instructioninthewearingofappropriatepersonalprotectiveequipment

• Informationonwhathealthhazardsfromoilandotherchemicalsmightbeencountered

• Explanationofwhatdutiesaretobeperformed

• Chainofcommand

• Instructiononthedecontaminationprocedurestobefollowed

• Allotherappropriatesafetyandhealthprecautions

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Hazardous Materials and Hazard Communication

• Donothandleunmarked,unlabeled,ordamagedcontainers—report these to your supervisor.

• SpecificHazardCommunicationtrainingisrequiredon the hazards from the oil and from any hazardous materials being used or use that you may come in contact with.

• MaterialSafetyDataSheets(MSDS)mustbeavailableforallhazardousmaterials.Reviewthemandfollowasappropriate.

• Warninglabels,suchasNFPA704Mmaybefoundonchemicalcontainersbeing used.

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Emergency in the Field

• Notifyyoursupervisor,safetyofficerorincidentcommanderaboutallinjuries and hazardous material exposures sustained at your site. Your employer’s HASP will describe the emergency procedures to be followed.

• Askwhatfirstaidsupportisavailableduringyourbriefing;besureyouunderstand where it is located.

• Forminorinjuriesorhealthconcernsgoto:

–FirstAid

– Local hospitals or clinics

– EMT or nurse station

• Forseriousemergenciescallyourdirectsupervisoror911.

• Knowyourexactlocation.

• Keepinjuredworkerinsafelocationuntilassistancearrives.

• Don’tmoveunlesssafetyofworkerisatrisk.

• Usethebuddysystemtoaidandhelpeachother.

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The FIRST Priority is to Protect Yourself

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• Watchforlacerations,slips,falls,andtrips, especially while working on oil-slick rocks.

• Becarefulwalkingoverandhandlingdebris that is covered with water due to increased risk of slips, trips and falls.

• Remaincurrentwithtetanusvaccination.

• GettheHepatitisBvaccineseriesifyouwill be performing direct patient care or otherwise expect to have contact with bodilyfluids.

• Avoidcontactwithstagnantwater.



20

Protecting Yourself (continued)mod

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• Besuretousethedecontaminationproceduressetbyyouremployerbefore eating or drinking, using the toilet during the workday, and do a full decontamination, including a shower if available, at the end of shift.

• Washandsanitizeimmediatelyifexposedtotoxicsubstances.

• Rubbertypesteeltoe/shankfootwearwillprotectyourfeetfrominjuryandfrom oil exposure.

• Wearoil-resistantgloveswhenincontactwithoilandoilwasteandouterdurable gloves when handling debris.

• Usehearingprotectioninnoisyenvironments.

• Knowyourmedicines,allergies,andbloodtype.

• Ifindoubt,contactyoursupervisor!

• Donotstandinorcomeincontactwithunknownliquidsorsubstances.



21

Physical Environment

The land and near shore:

• Mostlyflat,somegradualsloping, coastal, some areas at or below sea level.

• Water-saturatedcoastalandswamp regions with marshes.

• EasternLAshorelinecreatedby silt deposits from the MississippiRiver.

TheClimate(May–November):

• HighHumidity

• HighTemperatures

• UVexposure–sunburnscanbeserious

• Potentialforstormsandlightning

• HighandLowTides

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Atchafalaya Basin Scene



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Module 2

Heat Injury Prevention

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The Hazards of Heat Exposure

• Heatrash-mostcommon

–Keepskindry,usepowders,notcreamsorointments

• Heatinjuryiscausedwhenthebody’sabilitytodealwithheatisoverwhelmed.Rangesinseveritybutiscommon,serious,canbedeadly.Itcan be prevented. Three main phases of heat injury are:

– Heat Stress

– Heat Exhaustion

– Heat Stroke

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24

Factors Increasing the Hazard

• Hightemperatureandhumidity

• Directsunexposure(withnoshade)orextremeheat

• Limitedairmovement(nobreezeorwind)

• Physicalexertion(generatesheat)

• Wearingprotectiveclothingandequipment

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Recognizing Heat Injury

• HeatStress:feelingveryhot,sweating,maybethirsty,headaches.

• HeatExhaustion:moistskinandsweatingprofusely;headaches,weakness,nausea, thirst, muscle cramps, feeling faint and dizzy.

• HeatStroke-akiller!:dizziness,confusion,hallucinations,orcoma;flushed;hot and dry skin is always heat stroke, but skin may be moist from previous sweating and some people continue to sweat even with heat stroke: you don’tneedtobedrytodie!

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Respond Rapidly to All Heat Injury

• Alwaysmovetheworkertoacoolerarea,removeouterclothing,seekmedical care.

• Ifthepersonisalert,offersipsofcoolwater.

• Ifthepersonisnotalert,suspectheatstrokeandcall911(orotheremergency number) immediately. While waiting for help, fan the person and cool as rapidly as possible by pouring on ice and water.

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Preventing Heat Injury

• Knowsigns/symptomsofheatillnesses;monitoryourself;watchoutforyour co-workers.

• Wearahattoblockoutdirectsun.

• Usecoolingfans/air-conditioningforrestbreaksandrestregularlyinshaded areas.

• Wearlightweight,lightcolored,loose-fittingclothes.

• Protectiveclothingthatactivelycoolsthebodymayberequiredinsomecircumstances.

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Work and Rest Cycles

• Youremployermustsetworkandrestcycles.

• Workitselfgeneratesheat.

• Beachcleanupworkersarecurrentlyworking20minutesandrestingfor40minutes.

• Whenpossible,workduringthecoolerpartsofthedayandrestmid-day.

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Adjust to the Heat

• Ifyouarenewtohotenvironments,beginworkgradually.

• Startatabouthalfofwhatyouwouldusuallydo.

• Graduallyincreasehowlongyouworkandhowhardyouworkoverthefirstfive workdays.

• Ifyouareawayfromtheheatformorethanaweek,startover.

• Youwillstillneedrestbreakseveryhourinhotweather,evenwhenyouarefully adjusted.

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Fluid Intake

• Drinkplentyofcoolwater–drinkbeforeyouarethirsty.Sportsdrinksareok, but not necessary.

• Drinksmallamountsoften–a6-ouncecupevery20minutes,moredepending on work load and heat.

• BUT-don’tdrinkmorethanaquart(32ounces)inanhour(youcanalsogetsick from too much water). In general, don’t drink more than 12 quarts a day.

• Eatanormaldiet.Frequentsmallmealsarebest.Sportsdrinkscontainsalts(which you lose as you sweat), so if you’re not able to eat regularly, they are a good alternative.

• Avoidalcoholorcaffeinateddrinks.

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Take Extra Care if You have Any Additional Risk Factors:

• Diabetes,heartdisease,obesity,pregnancy,anyacuteviralillness.

• Lackofrecentexposuretoheat.

• Somemedications(includingantihistamines,diuretics,someothermedications – ask your health care provider or pharmacist).

• Fatigue.

• Avoiddrugs,especiallycocaineandamphetamines.

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Urine Output Color

• Thecolorofyoururinecanhelpyoutellifyouaredrinkingenoughwater.

Body has plenty of fluids.

Clear

Body has adequate fluids.

Light yellow

Body is low on water. Drinkmorenow!

Dark yellow

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Module 3

Oil Spill Cleanup and Health Concerns

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What is an Oil Spill?

• Anoilspillisthereleaseofaliquidpetroleumhydrocarbonintotheenvironment due to human activity, and is a form of pollution. The April 2010GulfofMexicooilspillinvolvescrudeoilreleasedfromtheexplosionof an off-shore drilling rig.

• Duringanoilspillcleanup,workersmayencountermanytypesofcrudeoil,including fresh and weathered, which contain carcinogenic volatile aromatic compounds like benzene, toluene and naphthalene.

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module 3What is Crude Oil?

• Crudeoilisamixtureofhydrocarbonsandconsistsoflight,mediumandheavy chemicals.

• Thehydrocarbonsincrudeoilaremostlyalkanes,cycloalkanesandvariousaromatic hydrocarbons while the other organic compounds contain nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and trace amounts of metals such as iron, nickel, copper and vanadium. The exact molecular composition varies widely.

• Thelightparts,suchasbenzene,xylene,tolueneandethylbenzenegenerally evaporate into the air in the first 24 hours of a spill (usually before reaching the shore).

• Themediumandheavyparts(consistencymuchlikemotoroil)iswhatcleanup operations on the land and near shore areas focus on.

Be cautious during cleanup operations. If you are unsure, ask your supervisor before proceeding!



36

What is in the Crude Oil from this Spill?

• Youwillbedealingwithhighlyweatheredoilandotherenvironmentalconditions.

• Thecrudeoilchangesovertimeasthevolatilepartevaporatesandtheoilweathers and rots (degrades) and mixes with sea water, seaweed and other vegetation and debris.

• Weatheringofoiloccursrapidlyatfirstandslowsdownovertimeaslightand medium hydrocarbon chains are evaporated or dissolved away by sunlight, waves, and winds.

• Insideofstoragecontainersandbags,oilywastewilldegradeovertime,especially in high temps and give off foul smelling and possibly toxic gases and vapors.

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module 3Occupational Exposure Limits (OEL)

• Cleanupworkerstypicallywork>8hours/dayfor7-14daysinarow.

• NOTE:WorkersshouldbeinformedthatOELsbasedonstandardtimesarenot appropriate for monitoring.

• NOTE:OELsdon’tincludeskincontact,absorptionandingestionwhicharecommon in cleanups.

•Checkwithyoursitesupervisorforadditionalguidance!



38

Crude Oil

• Complexmixtureofcarcinogenicsubstances.

• Includesacomplexmixtureofhydrocarbonandotherorganiccompounds including alkanes, cycloalkanes, aromatics, polynuclear aromatic compounds, sulphur compounds, nitrogen compounds, oxygen compounds, and traces of organo-metallic compounds).

• Healthhazardsgenerallyassociatedwithcrudeoils:

– Inhalation of the toxic volatile hydrocarbon components, such as benzene, and dermatitis from repeated or prolonged skin contact can cause dermatitis or skin cancer.

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Weathered Crude Oil

• Weatheredcrudeor“mousse”iscrudepetroleumthathaslostmuchofits more volatile components and has mixed with sea water and organic matter.

• Weatheringisaseriesofchemicalandphysicalchangesthatcausespilledoilto break down and become heavier than water. Winds, waves, and currents may result in natural dispersion, breaking a slick into droplets which are then distributed throughout the water. These droplets may also result in the creation of a secondary slick or thin film on the surface of the water.

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40

Health Risks of Weathered Crude Oil

• Potentialdermatitishazardfromskincontact.

• Inhalingoildroplets/oilyparticlesputintotheairduringcleanupoperationscan be irritating to eyes, nose, throat and lungs.

• Evaporationthatoccursduringthefirst24to48hoursafterthespillgreatlyreduces inhalation hazards from the toxic volatile components, such as benzene.

NOTE:Evenifairsamplingshowsnodetectablelevelsorverylowlevelsofvolatileorganiccompounds(VOCs),therestillmaybehealtheffectspresent.

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Weathered Crude Oil

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Tarballs

• Weatheringprocesseseventuallycreateatarballthatishardandcrustyonthe outside and soft and gooey on the inside. Turbulence in the water or beach activity from people or animals may break open tarballs, exposing theirsofter,morefluidcenters.

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Health Risks of Tarballs

• Themostcommonreactiontothechemicalsintarballsisanallergicreaction or developing rashes. This can happen even from brief contact with oil.

• Ingeneral,contactwithoilshouldbeavoided.Ifcontactoccurs,washthe area with soap and water, baby oil, or a widely used, safe cleaning compound such as the cleaning paste sold at auto parts stores.

• Littleisknownaboutlongertermexposuretotarballs.UsePPEwhenyoucome into contact with tarballs.

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Patchy Coverage of Tarballs on South Padre Island Beach 2009mod

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Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)

• Gaswithadistinctivereddish-browncolor.

HealthRisksofNitrogenDioxide:

• Respiratoryirritantandiscapableofcausingpulmonaryedema.

• Aconcentrationof50ppmismoderatelyirritatingtotheeyesandnoseandmay cause pulmonary edema and possibly subacute or chronic lesions in the lungs.

• OdorofNO2 is first perceptible to most people in the range of 0.11 to 0.22 ppm.

•Maybeahazardduringburningoperations!

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Occupational Exposure Limits for NO2

• TheNIOSHRecommendedExposureLimitforNO2 is 1 ppm for a 15 minute period, the same as the OSHA ceiling limit for this compound. There is no full shift TWA exposure criteria set by either NIOSH or OSHA for this compound.TheACGIHTLVforNO2 is 3 ppm for an 8-hour TWA, with a STEL of 5 ppm for 15 minutes.

NOTE:WorkersshouldbeinformedthatOELsbasedonstandard times are not appropriate for monitoring.

NOTE:OELsdonotincludeskincontact,absorptionandingestionwhicharecommonincleanups.

Checkwithyoursitesupervisorforadditionalguidance!

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Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)

• SO2 is released when burning crude oil and during degredation.

HealthRisks:

• Short-termexposurestoSO2, ranging from 5 minutes to 24 hours, can cause adverse respiratory effects including bronchoconstriction and increased asthma symptoms.

• Whenreactingwithothercompoundsintheatmosphere to form small particles, they can penetrate deeply into sensitive parts of the lungs and can cause or worsen respiratory disease, such as emphysema and bronchitis, and can aggravate existing heart disease, leading to increased hospital admissions and premature death.

• EPAseta24-hourprimarystandardat140ppbandanannualaveragestandardat30ppb,andseta3-houraveragesecondarystandardat500ppb.

• TheNIOSHrecommendedexposurelimitis5ppmfora15minuteperiodand2ppmforan8-hourtimeweightedaverage.TheACGIHThresholdlimitvalue(TLV)isthesame. The OSHA PEL is 5 ppm for an 8-hour time weighted average.

• Sulfurdioxideemissionsarealsoaprecursortoacidrainandatmosphericparticulates.

SO2 Plume

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Gasoline and Diesel Fuels

• Gasolineorpetrolisapetroleum-derivedliquidmixturewhichisprimarily used as a fuel in internal combustion engines. Diesel fuel is any liquid fuel used in diesel engines. These and other fuels will be used on the cleanup and can add to worker hazards.

• Manyofthenon-aliphatichydrocarbonsnaturallypresentingasolineanddiesel fuels are carcinogenic.

• Briefinhalationoftheseandsimilarsubstancescanalsoproducemanyof the effects of alcohol intoxication and, sometimes, a hallucinogen-like “trip.”

• Dieselcombustionexhaustcontainshazardousgasesandparticleswhichcan be harmful if inhaled.

• GasolinehasaACGIHTLVof500ppmina15minuteperiodandatimeweighted average of 300 ppm. NIOSH considers gasoline to be a potential occupational carcinogen.

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Diesel Combustion Exhaust

• Thelargestcomponentsofmostcombustiongasesisnitrogen(N2), water vapor (H2O),andcarbondioxide(CO2).

• Relativelysmallcomponentsofitarenoxiousortoxicsubstances,suchascarbonmonoxide(CO),hydrocarbons,nitrogenoxides(NOx), Ozone(O3), partly unburnt fuel, and particulate matter.

• Workersmaybeexposedtodieselcombustionexhaustfromworkingneardiesel powered generators.

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Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

• Carbondioxideiscolorless.Atlowconcentrations,thegasisodorless.Athigher concentrations it has a sharp, acidic odor.

• CO2 is an asphyxiant and an irritant. When inhaled it can produce a sour taste in the mouth and a stinging sensation in the nose and throat.

• TheNIOSHrecommendedexposurelimitis30,000ppmina15minuteperiod, with a time weighted average of 5,000 ppm – the same as the OSHA PEL.TheACGIHTLVsarethesame.

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Carbon Monoxide (CO) Exposure

CarbonMonoxidehasnowarning properties; it is a colorless odorless gas!

COmaybepresentwith:

• Anyactivityusinggasoline,dieselor propane-powered machinery

• Worknearoperatingequipment

• Debrisreductionsites

• Worknearhotwork(cutting,welding) especially in confined spaces

TocontrolCOexposures:

• WearCOmonitoringequipment

• Donotusegas/dieselpoweredequipment indoors or in enclosed areas

• Useforcedairventilation

Symptoms: Headache, dizziness, drowsiness, or nausea progressing to vomiting, loss of consciousness. Prolonged or high exposure can lead to comaordeath.IfyouexperienceanyofthesesymptomswhereCOmaybepresent - LEAVEAREAIMMEDIATELY

• TheNIOSHrecommendedexposurelimitisatimeweightedaverageof35ppm with a ceiling of 200 ppm. The OSHA PEL is a time weighted average of 50ppm.TheACGIHTLVisatimeweightedaverageof25ppm.

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What Happens When the Oil Reaches Shore?

• Oilexposuretotheshorelinedependsonwaveenergyandtides,substratetype, and slope of the shoreline.

• Shorelinetypeisclassifiedbyrankdependingonhoweasytheoilwouldbe to clean up, how long the oil would persist, and how sensitive the shoreline is.

• Oilmaypersistlongerthanexpectedbasedonmicroclimates.Someoftheweathered crude may develop a thin “skin” which when disturbed during cleanup, releases fresher oil.

• Oilmaynotweatherintoasemisolidtarbecauseofthewateremusificationand organic matter, vegetation mixed into the mousse.

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Crude Oil Washing Up on Beach

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Environmental Damage

• Workersshouldexpecttoencounterdeadandbloatedanimalcarcasses,struggling and dying wildlife, and crude oil impacts to the shoreline.

• Thevariouselementgroupsaffectedare:Birds,ReptilesandAmphibians,Fish,Invertebrates,HabitatsandPlants,Wetlands,andMarineMammalsand Terrestrial Mammals.

• Thousandsofanimalsdieimmediatelyfrombeinginundatedwiththeoil.

• Higherdeathratesfollowinsubsequentyears,partiallybecauseanimalsingest prey from contaminated soil and from ingestion of oil residues on hair due to grooming.

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Habitat Affected

Birds

• Theoilpenetratesupthestructureoftheplumageofbirds,reducinginsulating ability.

• Birdstypicallyingestoilthatcoverstheirfeathersastheyattempttopreen, causing kidney damage, altered liver function.

Rocks

• Oilthatwashesupontheshorelinetypicallycollectsonrocks.Oilslickrocks cause increased slip, trip and fall hazards to emergency responders and cleanup workers.

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Equipment Used

ContainmentBoom

• Aflexible,fence-type,water-bornepollutant containment barrier that floatsonthewater.

• Usedtocontainoilslicksandlifttheoil off the water.

• Boomisreusableandmustbedecontaminated after use.

• Itisveryheavytocarryanddifficulttowork with.

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Containment Boom

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• Machinethatseparatesoilfloatingonwater.

• Threecommontypes:

– Weir skimmersfunctionbyallowingtheoilfloatingonthesurfaceofthewatertoflowoveraweir.Theheightoftheweirmaybeadjustable.

– Drumskimmers function by using a rotating element such as a drum, to which the oil adheres. The oil is wiped from the surface of the drum and collected.

– Oleophilic skimmers use ropes, discs, or drums that are treated with a substance or otherwise manufactured to adhere to oil.

Oil Skimmermod

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Texas General Land Office Deploying Desmi Terminator Skimmer*

* DESMI terminator skimmer is a type of weir skimmer.

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Other Equipment

• Vacuums

– remove oil from beaches and water surface

• Shovels

– used to clean up oil on beaches

• OilAbsorbentsocks,pompoms, and other equipmentarealsousedalongside boom and are not reused.

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Methods of Cleanup

• Bioremediation,includinguseofdispersants

• Controlledburning

• Shoveling

• High-pressurehotwater

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Bioremediation

• Useofmicroorganismsorbiologicalagentstobreakdownorremoveoil.

• BioremediationAccelerator

–Chemicallyandphysicallybondstobothsolubleandinsolublehydrocarbons.

–Actsasaherdingagentinwaterandonthesurface,floatingmoleculesto the surface of the water, including solubles such as phenols and BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes), forming gel-like agglomerations.

– These are usually chemical products with hazardous properties. Workers need additional training in their safe use and perhaps additional PPE.CheckwithyoursitesupervisorforMSDSs.

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Chemical Dispersants

• ChemicaldispersantssuchasCOREXIT(Nalco)EC9500AandEC9527Amaybe used for beach cleanup operations.

• Aerialandboatsprayingarethemostcommondeliverysystems.

• Aerial Spraying - Aircraft provide the most rapid method of applying dispersantstoanoilspill.Foraerialspraying,thedispersantisappliedundiluted.Carefulselectionofspraynozzlesiscriticaltoachievedesireddose levels, since droplet size must be controlled.

• Boat Spraying - Dispersant may also be applied by workboats equipped with spray booms mounted ahead of the bow wake. The preferred and most effective method of application from a workboat is to use a low-volume, low-pressure pump so the chemical can be applied undiluted.

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COREXIT (Nalco) EC9500A, EC9527A

Exposure:

• Avoideyecontact.Incaseofeyecontact,immediatelyflusheyeswithlargeamounts of water for at least 15 minutes.

• Incaseofskincontact,immediatelyflushwithlargeamountsofwater,andsoapifavailable.Removecontaminatedclothing,includingshoes,afterflushinghasbegun.Ifirritationpersists,seekmedicalattention.

• Avoidprolongedbreathingofvapors.Usewithventilationequaltounobstructed outdoors in moderate breeze.

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COREXIT (Nalco) 9500

• COREXIT(Nalco)9500containsbetween10-30%ofpetroleumdistillates(solvent).

Petroleum Distillates Exposure:

• Uponskincontact,petroleumdistillatescanproducelocalskinirritationandsensitivity to light in some individuals.

• Whenswallowed,thelighter,morevolatiledistillateproductscanbesucked into the lungs interfering with the lung’s functions and may result inchemicalpneumonia.Aspirationoffluidintothelungscanoccurbothduring swallowing and vomiting of the product.

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COREXIT (Nalco) EC9527A

• COREXITEC9527Acontainsbetween30-60%of2-butoxyethanol(solvent).

• 2-butoxyethanolisaclear,colorlessliquidthatsmellssomewhatlikeether.

• 2-Butoxyethanolcanbeinhaledinyourlungsoringestedthroughyourstomach and intestines when you eat food or drink water that contains the chemical.

Exposure Limits:

• Effects–exposureof100ppmormoreof2-butoxyethanolvaporsinairfor4 or 8 hours has caused irritation of the nose and eyes, headache, a metallic taste, or vomiting.

• 2-Butoxyethanol(from2-butoxyethanolor2-butoxyethanolacetateexposure) can be measured in blood and urine.

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Controlled Burning

• Burnstheoiloffofthewater.

• Caneffectivelyreducetheamountofoilinwater.

• Canonlybedoneinlowwind.

• Cancauseairpollutionandrespiratoryailments.

Acontrolledburntoclearmarshgrassescan alsobeusedBEFOREtheoilreachestheshore.

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Shoveling

Removalofcontaminatedmaterial

• Usebuddysystem–oneworkerholdsadisposablebagandtheothershovels.

• Sandisremovedandtakentoafacilityforprocessingtoremovethecrudeoil.

• Canbedoneonsandybeachesorsaltwatermarshes.

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High-pressure Hot Water

• Processofsprayingoil-strickenbeaches with hot water.

• Initialstepistospraytherockyshore with high pressure jets of water from hoses.

• Aftertheoilissprayedoffthesurface of the rocks on the beach, the oil drains into areas that have booms in place.

• NotusedtodateinGulfCoastcleanup.

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High-pressure Hot Water (continued)

Occupational Hazards

• Thesprayuseshotwaterattemperaturesnear180degreesFahrenheitor60degreesCelsiusfromatypeofwandnozzlewhichcancausefirstandsecond degree burns.

• High-pressurewatertypicallyisreleasedat690kPaandflowsataratearound 1,890 liters per minute. High-pressure water contact can cause skin swelling and small abrasions. Longer term exposure can cause extremely painful, swollen and pale skin because of vascular compromise and tissue necrosi.

Maycauseinhalationofweatheredoil!

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High-pressure Hot Water (continued)

Environmental Hazards

• Areasthatwerecleanedwiththistechniqueneedtoberepeatedlycleaned,because the oil remains after each cleaning.

• Maypushtheoildeeperintothesoilandrockalongthebeach.

• Microbialpopulationsontheshorelinemaybecomedisplacedanddestroyed. Many of these organisms (e.g., plankton) are the basis of the coastal marine food chain, and others (e.g., certain bacteria and fungi) are capable of facilitating the biodegradation of oil.

• Additionaltrainingandsafetyprecautionsmustbeprovidedifyouareworking on this type of operation.

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How Do Chemicals Enter Your Body?

• Skincontact/absorption

• Inhalation

• Ingestion

• Injection

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Contact/Absorption

• Somechemicalscancauseirritationorrashes(dermatitis)iftheytouchyourskin.

• Forcertainchemicals,oncetheytouchtheskin,theyareabsorbedandgointo the bloodstream, sometimes without causing any visible damage to your skin (e.g., a rash).

• Ifchemicalsgetinsideofyourbodytheymaybeabletopassthroughtoyour bloodstream and be carried to other organs and parts of your body.

• Someareasaremoreatriskthanothers(e.g.,eye,groin,wrists,forehead).Proper PPE use prevents this.

• Openwoundscanincreaseabsorption.

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• Whenairbornechemicalsenteryourlungs,theycanbeabsorbedintoyourbloodstream.

• Airbornechemicalsarebreathedinthroughthemouthornose.

• Gasesandvaporscanreachthedeeplungs.

• Particleanddropletsizeaffectswherethechemicalsettlesintherespiratorytract.

• Wherethechemicalsettlesintherespiratorytractinfluencessymptomsanddiseases.

Inhalation

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Ingestion

• Chemicalisswallowedthroughyourmouthandisabsorbedthroughthedigestive tract.

• Tominimizetheingestionroute,goodhygienepracticesneedtobeobserved.Followyouremployer’sdecontaminationproceduresintheHASP, which should include a way to wash before eating, drinking, using toilet (NOTE: This can be difficult in very remote location).

• Oilcanruboffdirtyhandsandcontaminatefood,drinksortobaccoproducts.

• Chemicalsintheaircansettleonfoodordrinkandbeswallowed.

• Swallowedchemicalsareabsorbedinthedigestivetract.

• Chemicalscanbecaughtinmucusandswallowed.

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Injection

• Thechemicalentersthebodythroughasharpobjectlikeaneedle.

• Injectionmayoccurwhenaworkeriscutortheirskinispuncturedbyasharp, contaminated object such as metal, glass or a needle.

• Cleanup workers may encounter random debris (including medical waste) and come into contact with products containing asbestos debris, PCB and pesticide containers.

• Disasterresponseandcleanupfrequentlyrequireshandlingofdebriscontaining sharp objects.

• Whenhandlingsharpobjectsanddebristhatmaybecontaminated,wearaprotective, durable work glove over your chemical protective glove.

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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Protection

Depending upon your work site’s PPE program and assigned job task, any of the following PPE may be required:• LevelDmodifiedclothingisthemostcommon-Protectivepants,boots,

disposable gloves, life jackets and duct tape. Protective pants are typically tied off at the waist. Boots are duct taped to pants in order to form a seal.

• Disposableglovesneedtobereplacedastheywillfillupwithwater/sweat.

NOTE:Moreconventionalhazmatgearwilllikelynotbeused.Rarely,respiratorsrangingfromanN-95toaPoweredAirPurifyingRespirator(PAPR)willbeused.

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Working Near the Water

• Thereisapotentialfordrowningwhenworkinginthisenvironment.Makesurelifejacketsorpersonalflotationdevices(PFDs)areavailableandusedwhenworkingin/nearthewater.

NOTE:Makesurethesitesafetyplanaddressestheseissues.

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PPE Protection for Shoreline Cleanup Operations

Fourand½levelsofPPE

• LevelA

• LevelBandB+

• LevelC(willfocusonthese)

• LevelDandDmodified(willfocusonthese)

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Safety Glasses

Safety Goggles

Face Shield

Level C PPE with Coated Protective splash suit and APR respirators

Examples of Leather Gloves

(Courtesy of Kirkwood) Examples of Nitrile Gloves

(Courtesy of Kirkwood)

N-95 Respirator½ Face APR

PPE Examples

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Level C

• AirPurifiedRespirator(APR)(fullor½face)orPAPR

• Splashsuit

–Choiceoffabric,seamanddesignshould be based on expected level of liquid oil exposure

• Innerandoutergloves

• EyeProtectionif½faceAPRisworn

• Boots

• Mayhaveheadprotection

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Level DCouldinclude:

• Apron

• Gloves

• Hardhat

• EyeProtection

• Boots

• (BasicworkPPE)

• Liquid-resistantsleeves

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Level D Modified PPE Doffed to Waistmod

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How Can You Protect Yourself from Hazardous Chemicals?

Whendealingwithhealthandsafetyhazardstrytocontrolthembyusingthehierarchyofcontrols

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Respirators

• WearNIOSH-approvedrespiratorswiththe proper cartridges for the hazards in your work area (which may include organic vapor types). This should be included in your employer’s HASP:

– Dust masks do not provide adequate protection against vapors, gases, and some toxic materials.

–Cartridgesmustbechangedbasedonachange-out schedule determined by the employer.

– If a full respirator is used, there is a need for training, fit testing, medical approval and change-out schedule, cleaning and maintenance procedures. Disposable half face with OV cartridges may be used.

See:OSHARespiratoryProtectionstandard,29CFR1910.134

If in doubt about respirators, see your Supervisor!

½ face respirator with P-100/OV/AG cartridges

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N-95 Respirator

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Tips for Using PPE

• NEVERusedamagedPPE.

• OnlyusePPEthathasbeenproperlyselectedforthegivenhazardandthat fits correctly.

• MakesureyouhavehadtrainingbeforedonningPPEinthehazardzone.

• AlwaysinspectPPEbeforeuse.

• PPEshouldbeproperlycleanedandinspectedbeforeuse.

• OnlyusePPEasalastresorttocontrolhazards!

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Basics of Decontamination: Types of Contamination• AllworkersleavingtheExclusionZonewhethercontaminatedornotshould be considered exposed and be decontaminated.

• Thisisbecause:

–Contaminationcannotalwaysbeseen

–Contaminationmaybelocatedonthe surface of PPE or on the inside (permeation)

–Weneverassumeanythingis100%clean

• DecontaminationProtectionLevels

– Specified on the site specific plan (SSP)

– Decon personnel same level as entry team or one level down

– Based on:

• Degreeofhazard• Amountofcontamination• Lengthofexposure

Mass decon: Photo courtesy IUOE

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Decontamination (Decon)

• Processofremoving,destroying,orreducingtheactivity of materials such as toxic chemicals that could endanger a person or the environment.

• Preventsspreadingcontaminationtootherlocations (like your vehicle or home).

• Siteworkerswhousethesite’sStandardOperating Procedures/Guidelines (SOP/SOG) are less likely to be contaminated than site workers who do not use these practices.

• AllHASPsmustcoverdecontaminationprocedures.

Dependingonyourjobtask,youmaycome incontactwithhazardousmaterialswhich

willrequireyoutobedecontaminated

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Decontamination Sequence• Removealltapefirst

• Removebootsandoutergloves

• Removesuitbyonlytouchinginside

• RemoveAPR(ifapplicable)

• Removeinnergloves

• Washhandsandface

– avoid inadvertent ingestion

– remembernothingis100%clean

• Avoidhandlingcontaminatedequipment,PPE

• Knowwatersourcebeforeusing

• Nowaterpresent-bringtowelettesorwaterlesshandcleaner

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Types of Decontamination

• Primary

–Performedon-sceneintheContaminationReductionZone(CRZ)

• Secondary

– If necessary (tool, respirator cleaning)

–PerformedpostincidentnotinCRZ

• Emergency

– Normally performed by first responders

– May not be formal decon procedures

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Decontamination

• Primary

– Located immediately outside the hot zone

–Mayincludefullwash/rinseroutineormaybedrydecon

–Fullwash/rinseinvolveslargeamountsofwater

–Concentrateonmostheavilycontaminatedareasfirst

– PPE removed in proper sequence

• Secondary

–Usuallyinvolvestools&equipment

– Important to wear gloves

– Some equipment difficult to decon

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Emergency Decontamination

• Rapidremovalofcontaminatedclothing

• Usuallyinvolvesrinsingandremoval

• Doneanywhere

• Doneifdangertolife/health

• Certainsubstances(corrosives)mayrequireemergencydecontamination

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Decontamination

Field decon boot wash

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Module 4

Other Cleanup Health and Safety Issues

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Sunburn• Preventoverexposingskinandeyestosunlightandwind.

• Usesunscreenandlipbalm.

• Useprotectiveeyewear.

• Limitexposureasmuchaspossible.Takefrequentbreaksinshadedareas,if possible.

• Sunburnreducesresponderreadinessandincreasesthelikelihoodofskincancer.

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Eye Injuries

• Eyeinjuriescanbecausedbydust,flyingdebris,oildropletsandotherchemicals.

• Usesafetyglasseswithsideshieldsasaminimum.Aneyewearretainerstrap is suggested.

• Considersafetygogglesforprotectionfromchemicalsorforuseoverregular prescription eyeglasses.

• OnlyuseprotectiveeyewearthathasanANSIZ87markonthelensesorframes.

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Noise Exposure

• Usehearingprotectionwhenevernoisyequipmentisused.

• Ifyoucan’thaveanormalconversationwithsomeone3feetawayorcloseryouprobablyneedhearingprotection!

• Hearingprotectorsdon’tworkunlesstheyfitsnugly.You may need to try different sizes or types to find protectors that fit properly.

• Hearingprotectionmustbepartofahearingconservation program.

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Slips, Trips and Falls

• Watchforslips,falls,andtrips,especiallywhilewalkingandworkingonoilslick surfaces. In a cleanup, many surfaces, including steps, ladder rungs, and boat decks may be slippery from oil.

• Becarefulwalkingoverdebristhatiscoveredwithwateroroilduetoincreased risk of slips, trips and falls. Be extra careful if you are handling or carrying anything.

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Vehicle and Boat Use

• Makesureyourvehicleorboatisworkingproperly.

• Obeyalltrafficlaws.

• Drivedefensively.

• Bepreparedfordelays.

• Watchforvehicles,flaggers,andoverloadedvehicles.

• BOATING–becarefulwhenworkingoverandnearthewater.Wearalifejacketorpersonalfloatationdevicewhenworkingnearwater.

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Avoid Using Large Vehicles on Populated Beachesmod

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Heavy Equipment• OSHArequiresmachinerytobeinspectedbyaqualifiedworkerbeforeeach

use.

• Bealerttotheactivitiesaroundyou.

• Donotuseequipmentunlesstrainedtodoso.

• Donotwalkunderorthroughareaswhereheavyequipmentisliftingobjects or behind equipment.

• Donotclimbontoorrideloadsbeingliftedormoved.Donotrideonequipment or in bucket.

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Trench Foot (Immersion Foot)• Trenchfoot,alsoknownasimmersionfoot,occurswhenthefeetarewetfor

long periods of time. It can be quite painful.

• Symptomsincludeatinglingand/oritchingsensation,pain,swelling,coldand blotchy skin, numbness, and a prickly or heavy feeling in the foot. The foot may be red, dry, and painful after it becomes warm. Blisters may form, followed by skin and tissue dying and falling off. Obtain medical assistance as soon as possible.

• Topreventtrenchfoot,whenpossible,air-dryandelevateyourfeet,andexchange wet shoes and socks for dry ones.

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Poisonous Plants

• Learntorecognizepoisonousplants:

– Poison Ivy

– Poison Oak

– Poison Sumac

• Useglovesandwearlongpantswhenpossiblycontactingpoisonousplants.

• Rubbingalcohol,ifusedimmediatelyuponexposure,mayremovetheoilyresin that causes the allergic reaction.

• Clothes,shoes,andtoolsmaybecomecontaminatedbycomingincontactwith poisonous plants.

• Theallergensfromburningpoisonousplantscanbeinhaled,causinglungirritation!

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Insects and Insect-borne Diseases

• Mosquitoes–MosquitoescancarrydiseasessuchasWestNilevirus.Usescreens on dwellings, and wear long pants, socks, and long-sleeved shirts. UseinsectrepellentsthatcontainDEETorPicaridin.(Makesureyoufollowthe directions written on the label.)

• ChiggersorTrombiculidae-isafamilyofmites(alsocalledberrybugs;harvest mites; red bugs; scrub-itch mites) attach to the host, pierce the skin, inject enzymes into the bite wound that digest cellular contents, and then suck up the digested tissue through a tube formed by hardened skin cells called a stylostome. They do not burrow into the skin or suck blood. Itching from a chigger bite may not develop until 24–48 hours after the bite,wherearedwelt/bumpontheskinmayappear.Thelarvaremainsattached to a suitable host for 3 to 5 days before dropping off to begin its nymphstage.UseinsectrepellentsthatcontainDEETorPicaridin.(Makesure you follow the directions written on the label.)

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Insects and Insect-borne Diseases (continued)

• Spiders–Dependingontheareaofthecountry,blackwidowandbrownrecluse spiders may be present. If you suspect being bitten by a venomous spider seek medical attention and bring in the spider, if available, for identification.

• Ticks–TickscancarrydiseasessuchasLyme,Ehrlichiosis,andBabesia.Useinsect repellent with DEET and wear long sleeves, long pants and socks. Checkyourbodyforticksafterbeingoutdoors.Ifyounoticeatickonyourskin, remove promptly. To remove, use tweezers, if available, pulling straight up in a steady, slow motion.

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Animals and Animal-borne Diseases

• Bewareofwildorstrayanimals.Avoidwildorstrayanimals.Calllocalauthorities to handle animals.

• Manyanimalswilldieduetoexposurewiththecrudeoil.Getridofdeadanimals according to local guidelines. Wear proper protective clothing when handling carcasses.

• Ifyoudogetbittenorscratchedbyananimal,seekmedicalattentionimmediately, even if it is a domestic animal.

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Beware of Alligators and Snakes

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Alligators

• Americanalligatorsliveinfreshwaterenvironments,suchasmarshes,wetlands, and swamps, as well as brackish environments (between salt and fresh waters).

• Largemalealligatorsaresolitary,territorialanimalsandwilldefendprimeterritory.

• Beawareofyoursurroundings.Trytostayatleastfifteenfeetaway.

• Avoidsurprisingthereptiles.

• Fightbackifyou’reattacked.

–Gofortheeyes,nostrils,ears,orpalatalvalve.

–Getmedicalattentionpromptly!

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Snakes and Other Reptiles

• Beonthealertforsnakesswimminginthewatertogettohighergroundand hiding under debris or other objects. If you see a snake, back away from it slowly and do not touch it.

• Ifyouorsomeoneelseisbittenbyasnake:

–Rememberthecolorandshapeofthesnake,whichcanhelpwithtreatment of the snake bite.

–Keepthebittenpersonstillandcalm;thiscanslowdownthespreadofvenom if the snake is poisonous.

– Seek medical attention as soon as possible; dial 911 or call local Emergency Medical Services (EMS).

– Apply first aid if you can not get the person to the hospital right away Lay orsitthepersondownwiththebitebelowtheleveloftheheart;tellhim/her to stay calm and still.

–Coverthebitewithaclean,drydressing.

–Useappropriatetoolstomovedebrisandtoprobeareasthatmayharborsnakes or other threats.

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Other Protective Measures

• InsectrepellentwithDeetorPicaridin

• PPE–Forinformationonwhatequipmentyouneedforprotection,contactyour local OSHA office or NIOSH

• Personalfloatationdevice

• Earplugs

• Bottledwater

• Sunscreen

• Raingear

• PocketKnife(putinyourcheckedluggage)

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Fatigue and Stress

• Paceyourself,especiallywhenworkinglong shifts and many days in a row and take frequent rest breaks.

• Watchoutforeachother.Usethebuddysystem on your crews, especially in remote locations.Coworkersmaynotnoticeahazard nearby or behind.

• Beconsciousofthosearoundyou.Responderswhoareexhausted,feelingstressed or even temporarily distracted may place themselves and others at risk.

• Maintainasnormalascheduleaspossible:regulareatingandsleepingarecrucial.

• Makesurethatyoudrinkplentyoffluidssuchaswaterorsportsdrinks.

• Deconpriortoeating,drinking,orsmoking.

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Fatigue and Stress (continued)

• Wheneverpossible,takebreaksawayfromthecleanuparea.Eatanddrinkin the cleanest area available.

• Recognizeandacceptwhatyoucannotchange—thechainofcommand,organizational structure, waiting, equipment failures, etc.

• Manycleanupworkerswillbefromtheaffectedcommunities.Giveyourselfpermission to feel rotten: You are in a difficult situation.

• Recurringthoughts,dreams,orflashbacksarenormal—donottrytofightthem. They will decrease over time.

• Communicatewithyourlovedonesathomeasfrequentlyaspossible.

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Fatigue and Stress (continued)

What you can do at home:• Reconnectwithfamily,spiritual,andcommunitysupports.• Considerkeepingajournal.• Donotmakeanybiglifedecisions.• Spendtimewithothersoralonedoingthethingsyouenjoytorefreshand

recharge yourself.• Beawarethatyoumayfeelparticularlyfearfulforyourfamily.Thisis

normal and will pass in time.• Rememberthat“gettingbacktonormal”takestime.Graduallyworkback

into your routine. Let others carry more weight for a while at home and at work.

• Beawarethatrecoveryisnotastraightpathbutamatteroftwostepsforward and one back. You will make progress.

• Yourfamilywillexperiencethedisasteralongwithyou.Youneedtosupporteach other. This is a time for patience, understanding, and communication.

• Avoidoveruseofdrugsoralcohol.Youdonotneedtocomplicateyoursituation with a substance abuse problem.

• Refertocounselingifneeded.

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Summary

• Propertrainingisakeycomponentofasaferesponseandcleanup.

• Theoilandhazardousmaterialsassociatedwiththecleanupcanbehazardous to human health.

• Thehazardsandissuescoveredinthistrainingtoolaredynamicandrequirevigilanceandflexibility.

• Thekeytoasaferesponseisattentiontothesafetyissuesofyourworkenvironment.

• REMEMBER–ifyouareunsureaboutanactivityoroperation,stopwhatyou are doing and consult with a supervisor!

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information Sources

Information Sources

This training tool is based on recommendations from:

• NationalInstituteofEnvironmentalHealthSciences(NIEHS)

• NationalInstituteforOccupationalSafetyandHealth(NIOSH)

• OccupationalSafetyandHealthAdministration(OSHA)

• CentersforDiseaseControlandPrevention(CDC)

• EnvironmentalProtectionAgency(EPA)

FactsheetsfromtheseagenciesandotheroilspillresponseresourcesareavailableontheNIEHSNationalClearinghouseforWorkerSafetyandHealthTraining website, http://tools.niehs.nih.gov/wetp and http://www.osha.gov.



118

1-800-321-OSHA (6742) OSHA Regional Offices

RegionI(CT*,ME,MA,NH,RI,VT*)JFKFederalBuilding,RoomE340Boston, MA 02203(617) 565-9860

RegionII(NJ*,NY*,PR*,VI*)201VarickStreet,Room670New York, NY 10014(212) 337-2378

RegionIII(DE,DC,MD*,PA,VA*,WV)TheCurtisCenter170 S. Independence Mall WestSuite 740 WestPhiladelphia, PA 19106-3309(215) 861-4900

RegionIV(AL,FL,GA,KY*,MS,NC*,SC*,TN*)61ForsythStreet,SW,Room6T50Atlanta,GA30303(404) 562-2300

RegionV(IL*, IN*, MI*, MN*, OH, WI)230 South Dearborn StreetRoom3244Chicago,IL60604(312) 353-2220

RegionVI(AR,LA,NM*,OK,TX)525GriffinStreet,Room602Dallas, TX 75202(972) 850-4145

RegionVII(IA*,KS,MO,NE)Two Pershing Square2300 Main Street, Suite 1010KansasCity,MO64108-2416(816) 283-8745

RegionVIII(CO,MT,ND,SD,UT*,WY*)1999 Broadway, Suite 1690PO Box 46550Denver,CO80202-5716(720) 264-6550

oSHa

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oSHa regional offices

OSHA Regional Offices (continued)RegionIX(AZ*,CA*,HI*,NV*,andAmericanSamoa,GuamandtheNorthernMarianaIslands)90 7th Street, Suite 18-100SanFrancisco,CA94103(415) 625-2547

RegionX(AK*,ID,OR*,WA*)1111 Third Avenue, Suite 715Seattle, WA 98101-3212(206) 553-5930

* These states and territories operate their own OSHA-approved job safety and health programs and cover state and local government employees as wellasprivatesectoremployees.TheConnecticut,Illinois,NewJersey,New York and Virgin Islands plans cover public employees only. States with approved programs must have standards that are identical to, or at least as effectiveas,theFederalOSHAstandards.

Note: To get contact information for OSHA Area Offices, OSHA-approved StatePlansandOSHAConsultationProjects,pleasevisitusonlineatwww.osha.gov or call us at 1-800-321-OSHA (6742).



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safety and health awareness for oil spill cleanup workers

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