hazardous materials awareness student manual new jersey …

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS AWARENESS Student Manual

NJSP-HMRU of 58 June 2004

NEW JERSEY HAZMAT EMERGENCY RESPONSE COURSE

LEVEL 1 COURSE NUMBER 06037 FIRST RESPONDER

AWARENESS REFRESHER TRAINING PRESENTED THROUGH NEW JERSEY STATE POLICE HOMELAND SECURITY BRANCH,SPECIAL OPERATIONS SECTION TECHNICAL RESPONSE BUREAU, HAZARDOUS MATERIALS RESPONSE UNIT

5TH Edition 0604



HAZARDOUS MATERIALS AWARENESS REFRESHER

PREFACE

This course is designed and intended to be a refresher to the Level I, First Responder Awareness (course number 06007) which you have successfully completed and, as part of your normal job duties, it is possible or probable that you will come in contact with a hazardous material release. The purpose of this “Awareness Refresher” course is to renew your skills in hazardous materials incident response as required under 29 CFR 1910.120 (q) (8) (i & ii). Every county and municipality in New Jersey is required to have a fully comprehensive Emergency Operations Plan as per the Emergency Management Act (Public Law 1989, Chapter 222). You should be familiar with the response roles outlined in your EOP’s basic plan and functional annexes. As an awareness trained (level 1) responder, you will respond to hazardous materials in a defensive mode; identify that a problem exists, isolate the problem, gather basic information, and report what you have found. It is important to remember that if you are the “first on the scene” at an incident, your actions are critical in initiating a proper emergency response. Additionally, you must be aware of the increasing probability of a “Weapons of Mass Destruction” (WMD) incident and be prepared to deal with mass casualties (500 victims or more) at your level of training.

March1999 Although the information set forth in this program is presented in good faith and believed to be correct, persons or agencies using this information must make their own determination as to its suitability for their purposes. In no event are the participating organizations and the developing Technical committee responsible for damages of any nature resulting from the use of this information. This program is intended as refresher training only for participants who have successfully completed Awareness Training; Course #06007.

This document may not be reproduced in part or In its entirety except with the written authorization of the New Jersey State Police, Homeland Security Branch, Special Operation Section, Technical Response Bureau, Hazardous Materials Response Unit.



LEVEL 1

FIRST RESPONDER AWARENESS This module is separated into seven units of instruction. COURSE GOAL: The participants will be able to:

List and/or describe the information required to meet the competencies specified for the First Responder (Awareness trained) by OSHA, PEOSHA and NFPA 472.

FIRST RESPONDER - AWARENESS LEVEL

Module 1 Introduction 13

Module 2 How hazmat incidents are different from other accidents 15

Module 3 Detecting the presence of hazardous materials 30

Module 4 The North American Emergency Response Guidebook 37

Module 5 Levels of incidents and the Incident Command System 41

Module 6 Roles and Notification; 45

Module 7 Responsibilities of Municipal, County and State organizations

Module 7 Putting it all together 50

Appendix 53



INTRODUCTION

OUTLINE

The NJ HazMat Emergency Response Training Program

• Basis for Training

• First Responder Awareness

Record Keeping and Certification

• Instructors

• Recertification

OBJECTIVES

The Student will be able to:

1. list and describe two sources of required course content. 2. state how often training is required.



MODULE 2

HOW HAZARDOUS MATERIAL INCIDENTS ARE DIFFERENT FROM OTHER

ACCIDENTS

Outline • Definitions

• How Hazardous Materials are harmful to people

• Immediate/delayed effect

• Routes of entry

• Chemical hazard classes

• Chemical; warfare agents

• Biological warfare agents

• Nuclear materials

Objectives

The student will be able to :

1. state the difference between a hazmat incident and other incidents.

2. state identify the four routes of entry for substances to enter the body.

3. classify effects to the body from chemical exposure as acute or chronic,

given descriptions of the effects.

4. describe nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons of mass destruction

5. describe the effects of nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons



We are surrounded by chemicals in the work environment and at home. Overexposure to any of them could injure us; all of them, in a low enough dosage is safe. When we work with chemicals, we must understand where the boundary between safety and danger lies. When we talk about hazardous materials for emergency responders, we are, generally, thinking of those substances designated by the U.S. Department of Transportation; “Any substance or material in a quantity or form which poses an unreasonable risk to health, safety and property when transported in commerce”. Other agencies have other definitions and other lists of chemicals. They all have one thing in common; If you find the word “DANGEROUS” or “HAZARDOUS” associated with a chemical, it will cause a problem if you are exposed to it. The danger that chemicals pose to us depends on the nature of our exposure. If the shipping or storage containers of a hazardous material are intact and secure when we arrive at the scene of an accident, it is only an accident and we can deal with it accordingly. If the containers are ruptured or in immanent danger of being breached, we have a hazardous material incident and must call in people with the proper level of training to handle the problem. INCIDENT - The release or potential release of a hazardous material into the environment. (NFPA 472) If the hazardous material you must deal with is considered toxic (poisonous), remember that it must get into your body in order to harm you. There are four pathways for substances to enter the body; Absorption through contact with the skin and eyes, Inhalation, Ingestion, or Injection (puncture).

Absorption - The skin acts as a barrier against entry of foreign materials into the body. The skin is permeable to organic solvents. Many of these solvents also greatly increase the permeability of the skin to materials that would otherwise not pass through it. The skin provides a large surface area for contact with toxic agents. Eyes are also prone to chemical absorption and pose the added hazard of a direct pathway, up the optic nerve, for chemicals to reach the brain.

Inhalation is the most rapid route of exposure, immediately introducing toxic chemicals to respiratory tissues and the bloodstream. Once admitted to the blood through the lungs, these chemicals are quickly transported throughout the body to contact all organs. In many cases, chemicals accumulate in a “target organ”. Ingestion occurs when materials get into the mouth through hand-to-mouth contact, and through coughing when inhaled particulate material is removed from the lungs to the throat and then swallowed. Since there are acids, alkalies and enzymes in the gastrointestinal tract, the toxic nature of a compound may be enhanced or diminished.

Injection (or puncture) can occur by stepping on or bumping against a sharp object while working at an incident site. It will happen before you even realize it has occurred. The best precaution is to wear the proper protective clothing for your work site and observe safe work habits.

Important factors to consider when determining the toxicity of a material are the relationships between concentration, exposure time, and the threshold sensitivity of the person exposed.

Generally an acute exposure refers to a large, single dose received over a short period of time and an immediately readily observable symptom occurs. (acute)



A chronic exposure results from a small doses received regularly over a long period of time; often there is no immediate effect. The classic example of a serious delayed effect is cancer.

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

Hazardous materials are divided into nine classes by the US Department of Transportation:

Class 1: Explosives Chemicals that cause a sudden, almost instantaneous release of pressure, gas and heat

when subjected to shock, pressure or high temperature. Explosives are further classified into six divisions: 1.1: Mass explosion hazard (nitroglycerin, octolite) 1.2: Projection hazards (certain fireworks, flares) 1.3: predominantly fire hazard (quickmatch fuse, certain flash powders) 1.4: No significant blast hazard (safety fuse) 1.5: Very insensitive explosives, blasting agents 1.6: Extremely insensitive explosive articles

Class 2: Gases Materials in a gaseous state at ambient temperature. Gases are further classified into three divisions: 2.1: Flammable gases; identified by a red placard with flame

icon 2.2: Nonflammable compressed gases; identified by a green

placard with cylinder icon 2.3: Poison gases; identified by a white placard with skull and

crossed-bone icon

Class 3: Flammable and Combustible Liquids Flammable liquids have a flash point between 0 and 1400F. Combustible liquids have a flash point between 140 and 2000F.

Class 4: Flammable Solids, Spontaneously Combustible Materials and Materials that are

Dangerous When Wet A solid that is liable to cause fire through friction, absorption of moisture, spontaneous

chemical change, or retained heat from manufacturing process or which can be ignited readily and, when ignited, creates a serious hazard. These are further classified into three divisions:

4.1: Flammable solids; identified by a red & white striped placard with flame icon. 4.2: Spontaneously combustible materials; identified by a red & white divided placard with flame icon. 4.3: Materials that are dangerous when wet; identified by a blue placard

with flame icon.

Class 5: Oxidizers and Organic Peroxides Oxidizers are chemicals that initiate or promote combustion in other materials either of itself or through the release of oxygen or other gases. Organic peroxides are structural derivatives of hydrogen peroxide. Many are highly unstable and can decompose with explosive force. These are classified in two divisions: 5.1: Oxidizers; identified by a yellow placard with flame on an “0” icon.



5.2: Organic peroxides; identified by a yellow placard with flame on an “0” icon.

Class 6: Poisonous and Etiologic Materials Poisons are materials that can cause acute or chronic injury to the human body. Etiologic materials are infectious materials. These are classified in two divisions: 6.1: Poisonous materials; identified by a white placard with skull and

crossed-bone icon. 6.2: Etiologic agent (infectious materials); identified by a white placard with a red or black

biohazard icon. Class 7: Radioactive Materials Materials that emit ionizing radiation; identified by a white placard or yellow and white divided placard with a three-bladed “radioactive” icon.

Class 8: Corrosives

Liquids and solids that cause visible destruction of human skin tissue, metals, plastics or other material at the site of contact; identified by a black and white divided placard with a test-tube pouring liquid on a bar and a hand icon.

Class 9: Miscellaneous Hazardous Materials Hazardous materials, including hazardous waste, not included in the other eight categories; identified by a divided placard with the upper half black and white vertical stripes and the lower half white. NEVER TRUST YOUR SENSES TO DETECT THE PRESENCE OF A HAZARDOUS ATERIAL. YOU CAN NOT SEE OR SMELL MANY TOXIC GASES OR VAPORS UNTIL THEY EACH DANGEROUS CONCENTRATIONS. WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION (WMD) Everyday HAZMAT Incident (HMI) vs. NBC terrorism Incident (NBCTI): NBC terrorist incidents involve CBRNE (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and explosive) weapons. These weapons are also referred to as Weapons of Mass Destruction WMD). The two terms are synonymous. WMD differ from other terrorist weapons in that they employ military chemical and biological warfare agents or radioactive materials as a primary ingredient.

a. Chemical agents are super toxic chemicals used for the purpose of poisoning victims. They are similar to hazardous industrial chemicals, but hundreds of times more toxic. Contrast this with bombing an oil refinery to create a massive fire, which constitutes a terrorist attack, but not an NBC attack.

b. Biological agents are living germs that will cause disease in people. Some of these are deadly to animals as well, though they are not the primary targets.

Toxins are a special type of poisonous chemicals categorized as biological agents because they were created by living organisms. They generally behave like chemical agents and serve the same function, to poison people.

c. Radiological materials can pose both an acute and long term hazard to humans. In may ways, they behave like some of the chemical agents in that they cause cell damage. A major difference is that the radiological agents do not necessarily have to be inhaled or come in contact with the skin to do damage. Some types of radiation, (like x-rays), can penetrate significant layers of protective material.



How an everyday HAZMAT incident differs from an NBC terrorism incident: Super toxic Material The military nerve agent, Sarin, is, measure for measure, about 60 times more toxic than the methyl isocyanate which was released in an “extraordinary” hazmat incident in Bhopal, India. The hazmat incident in Bhopal produced 200,000 casualties with 10,000 people severely affected and 3,300 fatalities. An NBC terrorism incident has the Potential to create mass casualties or fatalities and will create large numbers of psychological effects on casualties, thus magnifying the casualties situation. Most WMD agents are heavier than air and will create a greater downwind hazard than most hazardous materials. Hazard Identification Early identification of the NBC agent is crucial to the safety and health of both responders and victims. Victims’ signs and symptoms must be reported immediately to the incident commander and/or EMS officer in charge. Only advanced detection and identification devices (GC/MS, MINICAMS, Real Time Analytical Platform) detect at the lowest threshold concentrations for chemical agents. Mass Decontamination An everyday hazmat incident requires the decontamination of only a few people. An NBC terrorism incident will require the decontamination of numerous individuals, perhaps hundreds or even thousands. Mass decontamination will require assigning some of the first responders to perform this very important task. The hazmat team in turn will be committed to establishing a separate decontamination area for emergency responders and hazmat team personnel. Crime scene/evidence preservation While an everyday hazmat incident may be labeled an environmental crime scene, all acts or threats of NBC terrorism are considered a federal crime. The site of the incident is a crime scene designation and evidence must be preserved. Interaction and coordination with local, state and federal agencies Interaction and coordination with local, state and federal agencies may occur in an everyday hazmat incident, but will be required during an NBC terrorism incident due to the complexity of the situation and the public interest. An NBC terrorism incident will require the Incident Commander to use the Incident Command System and to assign areas of responsibility to other responding personnel. The Incident Commander will be faced with managing and coordinating multiple agencies - some requested, some not. One liaison officer and several assistants may be needed to serve on the command staff to assist in the management and coordination of all the responding agencies. The staging area(s) manager(s) will have to control a much larger number of resources than during an everyday hazmat incident. Communication overload will be a significant challenge during/after an NBC terrorism incident. Communication overload must be dealt with immediately or the IC will become overwhelmed. Cellular phones may be useful during the early moments of an incident but cell sites could quickly become jammed by media use and others. Chaos, mass hysteria You can expect more chaos and hysteria in an NBC terrorism incident than on an everyday hazmat incident. The number of victims involved will physically overwhelm an emergency response team. Since fire companies and hazmat teams, alone, will be unable to maintain scene safety and security at an NBC terrorism incident, the importance of the local police department managing scene control cannot be over emphasized.



WMD; Weapons of Mass Destruction - Chemical Warfare Agents Chemical warfare agents are chemical compounds, and, therefore, have characteristics and behave in ways that are understandable and predictable. The more we know about these agents and their characteristics, the better equipped we will be to mitigate their effects. Each chemical agent is a chemical compound made of specific elements. All have scientific names and formulas which describe their chemical composition but their common names and shorthand designations are of greater interest to us. These are important for three reasons:

a. Military detectors, that will be used in the event of a terrorist attack, refer to these shorthand designations.

b. HAZMAT technicians and other technical personnel involved in a response will be using these symbols.

c. They are much easier to remember than the scientific names. In addition to a common name and symbol, chemical warfare agents have all been assigned GAS numbers (Chemical Abstract Service). By using the GAS numbers you can acquire additional reference data on each agent. The military has classified chemical agents according to how they affect individuals, initially as either toxic or incapacitating, and then further by their specific actions on the individual. The military has defined four categories of toxic agents: a. Choking b. Blister c. Blood d. Nerve Choking Agents Choking agents were first used during World War I with notable effectiveness. Phosgene (CG) and Chlorine (Cl) are the agents that are most likely to be encountered. Both of these agents have various industrial uses and large quantities are shipped as liquids throughout the U.S. Upon release, they evaporate rapidly becoming non-persistent gases and inhalation threats. Both have recognizable odors: phosgene smells like newly mown hay and chlorine smells like a swimming pool. The rate of action in high concentrations is rapid; but in lower concentrations, other than the irritating smell, the symptoms might be delayed for several hours. Symptoms include coughing, choking or gagging, and tightness in the chest. As the agent is inhaled, it irritates the respiratory tract, starting with the trachea and continuing down into the lungs. Although these agents are gases, both respiratory and skin protection are required as there may be some skin irritation. Proper first aid is to mask the victims and then remove them from the area of hazard. Victims should be carried, because walking will only increase their need for oxygen. Decontamination is aeration.



Responders who come into physical contact with phosgene should flush the affected area with water. NEVER TRUST YOUR SENSES TO DETECT THE PRESENCE OF A CHEMICAL WARFARE AGENT. YOU CAN NOT SEE OR SMELL MANY TOXIC GASES OR VAPORS UNTIL THEY REACH DANGEROUS CONCENTRATIONS. Blood Agents Blood agents were another type of agent used in World War I. The two most likely to be employed are Hydrogen Cyanide (AC) and Cyanogen Chloride (CK). Like the choking agents, CG and Cl, these agents have a variety of commercial uses and are readily available. Both are very volatile and non-persistent in he environment. As they are gases their route of entry is the respiratory tract. Hydrogen Cyanide has a vapor density of 0.93 (lighter than air) and will rise. It also has a low flash point (64 F) so it may well ignite if released using an explosive device. Blood agents smell like bitter almonds or peach kernels. Their rate of action is very rapid, with symptoms appearing very quickly. When exposed to a high concentration, individuals will gulp for air, have reddish skin, red lips, (purple in dark-complexioned), and vomit, with unconsciousness, frothing and death occurring within minutes. The agents are absorbed by the blood stream and carried throughout the body. Under normal conditions, the blood releases the oxygen it carries from the lungs to the individual body cells. Blood agents bond to the enzyme cytochrome oxidase, and prevent this oxygen transfer. An abundance of oxygen in the venous system is why the skin appears red. The body has the ability to detoxify hydrogen cyanide more rapidly than the other agents, so exposure to low concentrations is not as deadly or cumulative. Both agents hydrolyze fairly rapidly; however, cyanogen chloride hydrolyzes more slowly than hydrogen cyanide. Because blood agents are inhalation threats, respiratory protection is required. (When handling liquid cyanides (e.g., sodium cyanide) gloves and protective clothing should be worn) First aid involves getting the victim out of the contaminated area and administration of an antidote (amyl nitrite) by medical personnel. Decontamination is accomplished by aeration. NEVER TRUST YOUR SENSES TO DETECT THE PRESENCE OF A CHEMICAL WARFARE AGENT. YOU CAN NOT SEE OR SMELL MANY TOXIC GASES OR VAPORS UNTIL THEY REACH DANGEROUS CONCENTRATIONS. Blister Agents Like the choking agents, blister agents were also used in World War I. Blister agents have two primary routes of entry: inhalation and absorption through the skin. There are three blister agent types: the Mustard family (H, HD, HN, and HT), Lewisite (L) and Phosgene Oxime (CX). The Mustards and Lewisite are liquids, while Phosgene Oxime is a solid (prismatic crystalline powder) (melting point 400C). They all present a vapor hazard, and Mustard and Lewisite also present liquid hazards. Mustard freezes (becomes a solid) at 570F, so it would not be present as a liquid in the colder times of year. Mustard has the odor of garlic, while Lewisite smells like Geraniums.



The rate of action for skin contact is fast with all the blister agents. Mustard is a very insidious agent as it causes no pain nor is there any other indication of its presence for a period of 4-24 hours. It is also carcinogenic (as is Lewisite). With Lewisite and Phosgene Oxime there is immediate pain at the site of contact. The vapor effects of all three of these agents take longer to cause casualties, both on the eyes and through inhalation Symptoms vary according to concentration. Vapor or liquid in the eyes will cause some tearing, burning and a gritty feeling. Inhalation effects can cause coughing and perhaps a raspy or hoarse voice. Liquid vapor skin contact will cause blistering. The area contaminated will start turning red, followed by blister formation. The blisters are deep, similar to second-degree burns, and occur anywhere that contact is made. Moist areas of the body are more susceptible, even when covered with clothing. As a result, these agents must be removed from the skin (by blotting) immediately. Blister Agent Poisoning The physiological action of blister agent produces extreme irritation, whether the eye, respiratory tract, or skin. Reports from Iran and Iraq during their war in the 1980’s are of horrible, painful deaths due to lung damage. Skin blisters break, leaving large open wounds; however, additional blisters are not created from the fluid of broken blisters. There is some hydrolysis, but very little detoxification. Blister agents require both respiratory protection and protective clothing. The mask will protect not only the. respiratory tract, but also the eyes and face, and protective clothing the remainder of the body. These agents are absorbed, by most clothing, which will then “off-gas”. First aid involves removing all liquid agent from the skin immediately. Decontamination requires pinching or blotting agent off the skin rather than rubbing or wiping. After agent removal, flush with water or dilute bleach. NEVER TRUST YOUR SENSES TO DETECT THE PRESENCE OF A CHEMICAL WARFARE AGENT. YOU CAN NOT SEE OR SMELL MANY TOXIC GASES OR VAPORS UNTIL THEY REACH DANGEROUS CONCENTRATIONS. Nerve Agents Of all the agents, the nerve agents are of the greatest concern because of their toxicity, rate of action, and ability to enter the body by multiple routes of entry. Nerve agents were discovered in the mid-I 930’s when German scientists were looking for better pesticides. Because there were many rat-infested ships docking in German ports, the scientists needed to find a better way to fumigate the ships. The story goes that the scientists pumped this new pesticide into the holds of a ship and then went down inside to see if it had been effective in killing the rats. Not only did all the rats die, but so did the individuals conducting the test. Many insecticides are organophosphorus compounds similar to nerve agents. As a result, nerve agents have been referred to as “insecticides for people.” While many pesticides are organophosphorus compounds, others, such as Seven are “carbamates.” Some of the experimental carbamates made at Edgewood Arsenal in the 1960’s were as toxic as VX. There are four nerve agents that should be considered as likely terrorist weapons: Tabun (GA), Sarin (GB), Soman (GD), and VX. Of those, GA and GB are our greatest concern because they are the easiest to produce.



All nerve agents are extremely fast acting. The G- agents are generally volatile and will evaporate fairly quickly. They are considered semi-persistent, and are both an inhalation hazard and a skin contact threat (liquid on skin). VX has a low volatility and is primarily a liquid hazard unless aerosolized. It evaporates about as quickly as motor oil, so it is primarily a skin contact hazard, but if in aerosol form will also be an inhalation threat. When pure, the G- agents are both colorless and odorless, however there may be a slight fruity odor, if impure. VX is also odorless but may have a slight yellow color, and a sulfur smell, if impure. As the name implies, these agents affect the nervous system. Nerve agents attack or interfere with the normal chemistry at the nerve/muscle junction. Muscles work by contracting and relaxing. To stimulate contraction the nerve endings activate a chemical called acetylcholine, which acts as an electrical conductor to bridge the gap between the nerve ending and the muscle or gland. Following the contraction, the muscle secretes an enzyme called acetyl cholinesterase which neutralizes the acetylcholine, breaking the electrical contact, and allowing the muscle to relax. Nerve agents inhibit acetyl cholinesterase production, and, therefore, the neutralization of acetylcholine. Thus the muscle receives constant stimulation, causing it to twitch, and tire quickly. As this occurs, fluids build up in the trachea and bronchial constriction occurs making it more difficult to breath. Death usually results from cardiopulmonary failure. The symptoms of nerve agent poisoning are fairly recognizable: dimness of vision (pinpointing of pupils), runny nose, drooling, difficulty breathing/tightness of the chest, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, muscle jerking or twitching, involuntary urination/defecation, coma and death. Depending on where the agent contacts the body, pinpointing of the pupils is not always seen. Depending on the concentration and exposure time, effects can all occur in very few minutes. NEVER TRUST YOUR SENSES TO DETECT THE PRESENCE OF A CHEMICAL WARFARE AGENT. Riot Control Agents (Irritants) Riot control agents produce transient discomfort and eye irritation and are designed to render someone incapable of fighting or resistance. They are primarily employed by law enforcement for riot control though some are available to the general public for personal protection. Symptoms seldom persist more than a few minutes after exposure. These agents include tear gas (CS), MACETM (CN), chloropicrin, pepper spray and dibenzoxazepine. Improvised Chemical Warfare Agents An enterprising terrorist might make use of industrial chemicals which are available in large quantities at fixed sites or in transit. In addition to chlorine and phosgene, industrial chemicals that could be used in a terrorist attack include:

Anhydrous Ammonia whose effects are similar to the choking agents. Methyl isocyanate (MIC) whose effects can resemble blood, irritant and choking agents Dimethyl sulfate whose effects resemble blister agents The organophosphate insecticides whose effects resemble nerve agents



Remember symptoms of CW agent exposure with the mnemonic SLUDGE”: S - Salivation L - Lacrimation (Tearing) U - Urination D - Defecation G - Gastrointestinal (increase in secretions in tract) effects E - Emesis (vomiting) M - Miois (twitching of pupils) Comparative Toxicities If we use Chlorine as a baseline:

a. Cyanogen chloride (CK) is twice as toxic as Cl b. Phosgene (CG) is 6 times more toxic as Cl c. Hydrogen cyanide (AC) is 7 times more toxic as Cl d. Mustard (H) is 13 times more toxic as Cl e. Sarin (GB) is 200 times more toxic as Cl f. VX is 600 times more toxic as Cl

For skin toxicity, 10 milligrams of VX equals ito 2 grams of Mustard or Sarin. Less than a pinhead of Mustard is required to achieve a small blister. Although these agents were deliberately developed to cause injury or death to individuals and are extremely toxic, they ~ be detected, protected against, treated, and their victims decontaminated. WMD; Weapons of Mass Destruction - Biological Warfare Agents From a responder’s point of view, the biggest difference between biological and chemical agents is time. Unlike chemical agents, most of which have an immediate effect, most biological agents all have a delayed effect ranging from several hours to days, and in some cases weeks. When you respond to a biological incident, there may be no casualties and nothing significant unless someone witnesses the actual release or some type of suspected dissemination device has been located. As a responder, you need to understand some of the basic characteristics of potential biological agents and how to protect yourself. Biological agents: a. Are not dermally active: Biological agents cannot penetrate healthy unbroken skin. (An

exception is T-2 Mycotoxin, which causes skin damage). To cause disease, most biological agents must be inhaled or ingested. Our skin provides a good barrier to most agents, in contrast to some chemical agents which can cause toxic reactions and symptoms if placed on the skin.

b. Are non-volatile: Biological agents will be disseminated as either liquid or solid aerosols, where the biological materials will be subjected to the environment. Many biological agents are living organisms and adverse temperature and humidity will affect them. Sunlight, in particular ultraviolet rays, will kill many of them. In this environment, most will only last a few hours or days. Because of this, use of biological agents is more likely at night or in enclosed areas.



c. By weight, biological agents are generally more toxic than chemical agents. For

example, the toxin; Ricin, is 2 to 3 times more toxic than VX and Botulinium, another toxin, is 5000 to 10,000 times more toxic than VX.

d. Are invisible to our senses. We cannot see, taste or smell them. e. Range of effects: Biological agents have a variety of effects depending on the

organism and how it affects us, the dose we receive and the route of entry. This range can run from skin irritation through death.

f. Obtained from nature: Each of the biological agents has a natural host. In some instances, with little training or equipment, a small amount of culture or material can be “grown” into larger quantities which are then placed in a dissemination device.

g. Relatively easy to produce: The key term here is relatively. If you can obtain a culture of one of the organisms and know how to “grow” or culture it, (provide a suitable environment, provide nutrients, allow it to reproduce etc.) you can increase the quantity using basic procedures with easily obtainable equipment.

h. Have delayed effects: All living biological agents have a definite time period between when a victim is subjected to the agent and when the symptoms begin to appear. This is referred to as the incubation period, the time when the agent is reproducing in the body and defeating its natural defense systems. This incubation period can be as short as a few hours to days and in some cases weeks. Even toxins, which do not grow and reproduce, may take hours to produce symptoms.

Biological agents can be categorized by type of organism or product, i.e., bacteria, viruses, and toxins. Bacteria and Viruses Both bacteria and viruses are living organisms and as such, require a favorable environment in which to live and reproduce. When used as a weapon, inhalation is usually the targeted portal of entry. Once the organisms invade the body, they begin to grow and reproduce. They can also produce toxins which may poison your body. Your body has built-in defense mechanisms, but if they are overwhelmed or not effective, then the specific symptoms associated with the particular organism or disease begin to appear. Fever, vomiting, and diarrhea are frequently early symptoms. Depending on the particular disease, the effects will continue to develop and can in many cases completely disrupt normal body functions and cause death. Some bacteria and viruses can cause epidemics, by being transmitted from one infected individual to another. This is true of only a few of the agents such as pneumonic plague (bacteria), smallpox and viral hemorrhagic fevers (viruses). Toxins Toxins are poisonous substances produced as a by-product of pathogens or plants and even some animals. Snake venom is a good example of a toxin. They are not living organisms, but in fact chemical compounds, often proteins or protein-like materials. They can enter the body the same way pathogens can. They are not contagious. There are numerous naturally occurring toxins. How they affect people varies.



Examples of Biological Agents Anthrax (bacteria) Anthrax is a bacteria that occurs naturally in cattle, sheep and other hoofed animals and is normally transmitted to man through cuts or abrasions in the arms and hands. Anthrax can form spores which make the organism more resilient. In spore form, anthrax can be transmitted to people through the respiratory route, where it is a much greater threat (mortality can reach 80-90%). The incubation period is 1-7 days and the early symptoms are, chills, fever, nausea and swelling of lymph nodes. Treatment involves the use of antibiotics and treating the specific symptoms. Plague (bacteria) Plague or “black death” is a bacteria normally transmitted to people from rats through the bite of infected fleas. It can also be aerosolized and be transmitted to people through the respiratory tract causing pneumonic plague. Untreated pneumonic plague has a mortality rate of 90-100%. The incubation period is 2-3 days and early symptoms are high fever, chills, headache, spitting up of blood and shortness of breath. Treatment involves using antibiotics treating specific symptoms. Q-Fever (rickettsia) Q-Fever is a rickettsia, an organism which has some characteristics of bacteria and some of viruses. The organism can be found in nature in cows, sheep and goats and is transmitted to people through the inhalation of dust contaminated with animal tissue or feces or through contaminated milk from infected cows or other animals. The incubation period is 2-10 days with symptoms similar to the flu. The mortality is low (under 1%). A vaccine is currently being evaluated. Recovery occurs in most cases without treatment after 2 days to 2 weeks. Tetracycline has been proven to shorten the duration of the illness. Smallpox (virus) Smallpox is a virus. There is an effective vaccine, however, without this protection the aerosolized virus presents a respiratory threat. The incubation period is 10-12 days after which a victim will begin to feel ill with fever, rigors, vomiting, headache and backaches. Two to three days later lesions begin to appear. The mortality rate can reach 30%. Treatment involves supportive therapy. Ebola (virus) Ebola is one of the hemorrhagic fevers. This particular virus has received a lot of attention in the press and recent movies. It is transmitted to people by direct contact. The incubation period is 3-21 days with a mortality rate as high as 90%. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, and diarrhea, followed by blotches on the skin from subcutaneous bleeding. Treatment includes using Ribavirin and treating individual symptoms. Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis (virus) VEE is a virus that occurs in nature in mules, donkeys and horses. Transmission is normally through mosquito bites but transmission as an aerosol has been proven. The incubation period is 1-5 days. Symptoms are influenza like and last 3-5 days. Mortality is low, under 1%, and recovery occurs without intervention. Treatment is supportive. Staphylococcus Enterotoxin B (Cytotoxin) SEB toxin is normally ingested, causing food poisoning. The incubation period is short, 4-6 hours, with symptoms including vomiting, abdominal cramps, and explosive watery diarrhea. Recovery is spontaneous after 6-8 hours. Inhalation of aerosolized toxin is possible, and in this case the symptoms are entirely different: high fever, cough, chills and prostration which usually lasts 1-2 weeks. Treatment is supportive and an antitoxin is available.



Botulinum (neurotoxin) Botulinum toxin is normally encountered by ingestion of improperly canned food. The toxin can be aerosolized and present an inhalation threat. Symptoms begin 24-72 hours after ingestion or breathing in the toxin: weakness, dizziness, dry mouth and throat, and blurred vision begin to appear. Mortality can reach 60%. Treatment includes antitoxin and supportive measures. Ricin (toxin) Ricin toxin is extracted from the castor bean. This makes it readily available. Ricin normally enters the body through ingestion but the toxin can be aerosolized. It can also be induced through injection. The incubation period is 24-72 hours after which symptoms appear, including nausea, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramps and breathing difficulty. The untreated mortality rate is high, with death occurring after 36-72 hours. Ricin is 2-3 times more toxic than. the nerve agent VX. Treatment includes respiratory support, and other supportive measures. WMD; Weapons of Mass Destruction - Nuclear Radiation Of the three WMDs, (chemical, biological or nuclear), nuclear is considered the least likely of the threats. However, the potential exists and you need to understand the terms, the types of radiation and how to protect yourself. The potential for a terrorist to obtain an actual nuclear device and then transport it totally undetected is unlikely. Despite what you see on the “net”, producing a functional nuclear device is also highly improbable, therefore we are not going to go into the ramifications of a true nuclear detonation occurring here in your jurisdiction Definitions Radiation: In its simplest definition, radiation can be defined as either electromagnetic or particulate emissions of energy from the disintegration of the nucleus of an atom. This energy, when impacting on or passing through material, including us, can cause some form of reaction. This radiation is also referred to as ionizing radiation. Radioactive material: Any material which is giving off some form of radiation. Ionizing Radiation When ionizing radiation is absorbed by our bodies, it can cause changes to our cells. Small amounts can be tolerated; larger amounts can be harmful. For our purposes, this radiation can be classified as: a. Alpha particles b. Beta particles c. Gamma Radiation We’re not so concerned with the mechanism of radiation as we are with the hazard, the detection of it and protection from it. There are also non-ionizing types of radiation. Examples are: Flourescent light, lasers and microwaves. In these examples the radiation can cause burns but they do not cause molecular change or ionization.



Units of Radiation To quantify amounts of radiation, the term rem or millirem is used. It has a specific definition, but we’re concerned with how many rather than a definition.

rem = roentgen equivalent man rem = rad X RBE rad=radiation absorbed dose (deposition of 100 ergs of radiation energy per gram of absorbed material) RBE = relative biological effectiveness

The threshold for any real consequences begins around 200 rem. The LD50 is around 450 rem. Detection Radiation cannot be detected by our senses, but each type can be detected and identified with proper instrumentation. Most hazmat teams are already equipped with radiation detectors. These instruments will measure radiation in dose rates, or how much radiation is being absorbed per unit of time, i.e., 50 mrem/hr. Because the threat exists, checking for the presence of radiation as part of any hazmat response is a good idea. Symptoms of Radiation In most instances, it takes considerable time before an individual begins to show symptoms of radiation. Of course, there are always exceptions. If one would pick up a very active material, he/she could receive radioactive burns on the skin which would show up in a matter of hours. Health Hazards Risk depends upon several factors:

a. The total amount of radiation received (dose) b. The dose rate (how fast the dose is received) c. The specific type of radiation

The dose rate can further be defined by the duration of exposure. Radiation effects are further defined or categorized as acute, where you begin to show symptoms within 24 hours; chronic, where one receives a lesser dose of radiation resulting in less noticeable symptoms; and delayed, where symptoms such as a tumor or cancer may not show up until years later. Health Risks During an Incident The three concerns at an incident involve whole body exposure, ingestion of radioactive material (inhalation, ingestion) or contamination by radioactive material. Incidents involving either an explosion or fire will elevate the potential for the ingestion or contamination by the spreading of the radioactive material in the form of small fragments (dust) or smoke. Terrorist Use of Radioactive Material It is possible that a terrorist could obtain radioactive material from a medical lab or other facility and place it so as to cause an incident and scare a lot of people rather than actually create casualties. This scenario occurred in Russia in November 1995. A 30 pound package containing explosives and Cesium, a radioactive material, was placed in a Moscow park by Chechan Separatists. In this instance, the device was located and rendered safe before it detonated. If it had detonated, it would have created a significant cleanup problem; Cesium137 has a half-life of about 30 years.



Protection a. Time b. Distance c. Shielding The amount of radiation you receive will depend on the type and strength of the radiation and the amount of time you are exposed. Time You are exposed to a radioactive source and are receiving 100 mrems per hour. If you are exposed for 15 minutes, you have received 25 mrems. Cutting the time reduces your exposure. Distance Distance is also critical. Referring back to our forms of radiation, Alpha particles only travel a little over an inch in air. Beta particles will not travel over a few yards in air. However, gamma will travel extensive distances and this is the radiation we are the most concerned with. The farther you are from a source the better. With gamma, the intensity decreases by a factor of the square of the distance. Shielding Radiation can also be blocked or partially blocked by various materials: Alpha radiation is stopped by a sheet of paper, Beta radiation is stopped by aluminum foil or clothing, and Gamma rays are only reduced by dense materials such as lead or earth. HEPA Filters Because of the ease of protecting from alpha and beta radiation, our main concern from these is inhalation or ingestion of actual radioactive material in the form of dust or contaminated food or water. Gamma is more difficult to protect against and where time, distance and shielding are more important. Any good dust respirator or mask will protect you from the inhalation risk. To acquire a sufficient amount of material and place it in a situation where people are going to be exposed long enough to receive a dose resulting in some type of immediate measurable response is, to say the least, very unlikely. From a responder’s point of view, unless you survey a scene with one of the available detectors, it will be difficult for you to know the source is present, without some type of warning by the terrorist. The key point to remember is, once you are aware of the presence of radioactive material, back away, protect yourself against inhalation by using a respirator and use time, distance and shielding to work to your advantage.



HAZMAT INCIDENT

NBC INCIDENT

• DELIBERATE ATTACK X • SUPER TOXIC MATERIALS X • EARLY HAZARD IDENTIFICATION X X • MASS CASUALTIES X • MANY FATALITIES X • MASS DECONTAMINATION X • UNUSAL RISK TO RESPONDERS X • CRIME SCENE & EVIDENCE

PRESERVATION X

• MAJOR INTERACTION WITH LOCAL STATE AND FEDERAL AGENCIES

X

• SCENE COMMUNICATION OVERLOAD X • CHAOS, MASS HYSTERIA X • RESOURCES IMMEDIATELY

OVERWHELMED X

• SECONDARY DEVICES DESIGNED TO KILL RESPONDERS

X

• PRE-INCIDENT INDICATORS X



Module 3

DETECTING THE PRESENCE OF HAZARDOUS MATERIAL

OUTLINE The six Clue

1. Occupancy & Location 2. Container Shapes 3. Marking & Colors ( including identification numbers) 4. Placards & Labels 5. Shipping Papers and other Documents 6. Senses • Indicators of NBC attacks • Confined space recognition • Limitations of ordinary clothing • Victim care precautions

Objectives The student will be able to :

1. list and describe the six clues for recognizing the presence of HM 2. identify the probable contents of several storage containers or

transportation containers based on their respective shapes. 3. describe the NJ RTK labeling requirement 4. describe the information found in the NJ RTK inventory sheet 5. describe the indicators of a NBC terrorist attack 6. define a confined space and describe several hazards it poses to

worker safety.



SIX CLUES

FOR DETECTING THE PRESENCE OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

1. Occupancy and/or Location You should be familiar with various occupancies and locations in your jurisdiction where hazardous materials are used, stored, or produced. Determine which of them might become a terrorist target because of chemicals used on site, business engaged in, or number of people at the site. Each of them should have filed a New Jersey Right to Know form or survey with the state DOH, their LEPC and local emergency organizations. The survey and appropriate hazardous substance fact sheets and Material Safety Data Sheets will also be found in a central file in the facility office. Even without this specific information, you would expect to find certain chemicals at different types of facilities:

FACILITY: TYPICAL HAZARDOUS MATERIALS: • Compressed Gas Suppliers • Construction Firms and Site • Dry Cleaners • Electronic Circuit Makers • Embalmers • Farm/Garden Supply • Food Storage/Warehouse

• Furniture Stripping • Hardware Stores • Hospitals • Plating Shops • Pool Supply Public Pools

• Medical and industrial gases • Explosives, Compressed Gas,

Fuels • Solvents, Perchloroethylene • Acids • Formaldehyde • Pesticides, Herbicides,

Fertilizer • Ammonia (Refrigeration),

Combustible • Dusts • Solvents • Resins, Solvents, Oxidizers • Compressed Gas,

Radioactives, • Cryogenics, Etiologic Agents • Acid, Cyanide • Chlorine, Oxidizers,

Hydrochloric Acid, • Algaecides

2.Container Shapes

The general classifications of containers for hazardous materials are: Individual Containers Bulk Transport Containers Bulk Storage Containers Some hazardous materials require specialized containment that has a specific shape,

which can give a clue to the identity of the contents. Some samples of characteristic shapes are:

1. Cylindrical or elliptical containers with fiat ends contain liquid at near atmospheric

pressure (for example, gasoline)



2. Cylindrical or elliptical containers with rounded ends contain gases under very high

pressure (for example, liquefied petroleum gas) 3. Rail tank cars with dome fittings totally enclosed with a large cap contain liquid under

very high pressure (again, for example, liquefied petroleum gas) 3. Markings and Colors I There are many unique markings that are associated with hazardous materials. Three examples of marking clues:

1. Approximately 100 commodities must be stenciled by name on the side of rail cars in 4-inch-high letters.

2. Markings on the sides of trailers Such as the name of compressed gas and shipment of medical waste.

3. The name of the owner, such as a chemical company, may also give clues to the contents.

Identification Numbers

1. Identification numbers are required on portable tanks, cargo tanks, and tank cars. 2. Identification numbers may be displayed on other conveyances. 3. Methods of display of identification number.

a. Orange panel adjacent to the placards. Panel is 5-7/8 by 15-3/4 inches with 4-inch-high numbers.

b. Center of appropriate placard. Combustible placards which display the identification number will have white area under the identification number display to differentiate them frotn flammable liquids.

The NFPA 704 System (used at industrial facilities) This system uses a diamond shaped diagram divided into four quadrants to identify the “health’, “flammability” and “reactivity” of a chemical. Severity is indicated by numbers 0 to 4, with 4 being the most severe. The bottom space is used to identify special characteristics of the material. A “W” with a line through it alerts personnel to the possible hazard in use of water. This space may also be used to identify radiation hazard by displaying the propeller symbol or oxidizing material by displaying OXY. Pipeline Transportation Pipeline markers or warning signs, should be located:

1. At public road crossings, railroad crossings, and along the length of the buried line. Postings are usually found at fence lines, property lines, and right-of-way boundaries.

2. Where the pipeline is above ground and is accessible to the public. 3. On each side of crossings of navigable waterways.

Markings for gas pipelines have not been standardized. It is not uncommon for a marker to be buried in the ground or to be shown as painted circles on asphalt.



4. Placards and Labels I Placards are diamond shaped, 10 3/4” square on point. The placard provides recognition information in a number of ways:

a. the colored background b. the symbol on top c. the United Nations class or division number at the bottom d. the identification number in the center

Labels are mostly small versions of placards. Labels may be found not only on metal containers, but also those made of wood, plastic, cardboard, and even paper bags. Remember, containers have been found that were intentionally mislabeled to prevent identification of illegally shipped material. NJ Worker and Community Right To Know Labeling: Every container at a work site must bear a label with the identity of the five predominant substances and all hazardous substances in the container plus their Chemical Abstract Service (CAS) numbers. This is referred to as “universal labeling” under the New Jersey Worker and Community Right To Know Act (NJSA 34:5A-1 and NJAC 8:59). Any container with more than 1% of its contents unknown bears the legend “contents partly unknown”, on its label. In addition, RTK requires employers to complete the “Right to Know Survey”; a chemical inventory that must be filed with the Department of Health (for public sector locations), the Department of Environmental Protection (for private sector locations), the County RTK agent, the LEPC, local police and fire departments and updated periodically. Employers must maintain a central file with copies of MSDSs and Hazardous Substance Fact Sheets for all the hazardous chemicals listed on their RTK surveys and make this information available to their employees on request.

5. Shipping Papers and Other Documents All shipping papers will have the following information (see NAERG):

1. Proper shipping name 2. Hazard classification 3. Identification number

4. Packing group number 5. Emergency response information

Additionally, you may find:

6. number of packages 7. Type of packages 8. Correct weight

6. Senses “Senses” includes any personal physiological reactions to incident proximity, such as noting odd smells, hearing odd noise, dizziness, sneezing, etc. Intentional use of the senses that require contact with a material is NOT recommended for detection. (Examples; smell, taste, feel.)



Senses can be valuable in giving immediate clues to the presence of hazardous materials. Unfortunately, they may also prove the most difficult clues to teach because of the multiplicity of products, variations in discharge and impact, and differing individual physiological reactions. For example, a smell can be “mild” to one person and extremely “offensive” to another. A given “safe” material might have certain characteristics that it shares with a “hazardous” maferial. Many of the sense clues mentioned should be detected mechanically or chemically. If you smell something, you are being exposed to it. However, if the victims leaving a contaminated area have similar symptoms or if they report unusual odors or physiologic responses, use the information you are receiving to identify the source of their exposure.

Indicators of a Nuclear, Biological, or Chemical Attack on the Public SYMPTOMS OF VICTIMS

MASS CASUALTIES CASUALTY PATTERN

DISSEMINATION DEVICE WARNING GIVEN

PRIMARY

CREDIT TAKEN DEAD ANIMALS OR BIRDS

SECONDARY STATEMENTS OF VICTIMS THINGS OUT OF PLACE UNEXPLAINED LIQUIDS STRANGE SMELLS

Nuclear, Biological, or Chemical Agent Sources: HOME PRODUCTION

FOREIGN MILITARY SOURCES INDUSTRIAL FACILITIES MEDICAL I UNIVERSITY RESEARCH FACILITIES

LABORATORY / COMMERCIAL PRODUCTION



Confined Space Recognition

Examples of Confined spaces include but are not limited to pits, pumping stations, pipelines, boilers, Cupolas, degreasers, furnaces, septic tanks, reaction and pressures vessels, sewage digesters, sewers, silos, storage tanks, ship holds, utility vaults, vats, trenches and excavations OSHA (29 CFR 1910.146) ,which regulates workers in the private sector, defines a confined space as an enclosed space which: 1)ls large enough and so configured that an employee can bodily enter and perform

assigned work. 2) Has limited or restricted routes of entry or exit. 3) ls not designed for continuous employee occupancy. 4) Has, or has the potential, for one or more of the following characteristics:

a) A hazardous atmosphere. b) An engulfment hazard c).An internal configuration that could trap or asphyxiate an entrant (such as inwardly

converging walls, a downward sloping floor that tapers to a smaller cross-section. d) Any other recognized serious safety or health hazard.

PEOSHA, which regulates workers (and volunteers) in the public sector, goes on to define “entry” into a confined space as any action on your part that will expose your respiratory system to the hazards of that space. Basically this refers to any action that results in any part of your body, especially your face, crossing the plane of the opening into the confined space. Even standing near the opening of a confined space may expose you to vapors and gases that are venting from the space. You are likely to be exposed to hazards from the physical environment, hazardous atmosphere, and energy sources when you work in a confined space. NEVER TRUST YOUR SENSES TO DETERMINE IF THE AIR IN A CONFINED SPACE IS SAFE. YOU CAN NOT SEE OR SMELL MANY TOXIC GASES OR VAPORS NOR CAN YOU DETERMINE THE LEVEL OF OXYGEN PRESENT. Recognize and avoid entry into confined spaces until you have had the specific training required and your organization has a written SOP for such entries. Even with training, you will not enter a confined space for any purpose without proper backup, a harness and a safety or retrieval line.

PROTECTIVE CLOTHING VS. ORDINARY CLOTHING DO NOT, under any circumstances, enter any situation where you must use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) without having the proper Knowledge and Training. The materials in current use for chemical protection equipment have limited resistance to a broad range of commonly spilled chemical solvents. No one suit material resists attack by all chemicals. Consequently chemical response teams rely on an inventory of suits constructed of different materials to provide personnel protection. Level B



SELF CARE PRECAUTIONS FOR VICTIM ASSISTANCE SELF CARE precautions mean exactly that. The rescuers must protect themselves to keep from becoming the next victim. Workers at a hazmat incident or the site of a terrorist attack must take several factors into consideration before attempting rescue of victims. The most important is, will anything be gained by the rescue attempt? If conditions point to a high probability of death from injury or exposure already suffered, rescue operations should not be undertaken. If there is a likelihood of severe injury to rescuers, given the protective clothing they have available, from exposure to the toxic substance, a rescue should not be attempted. If the victim is in a confined space or has been felled by a chemical warfare agent, no rescue should be attempted unless you have the specialized training and equipment to work in that environment. During the rescue, care must be taken to prevent further injury to the victim. Failure to do so could result in catastrophic complications to the victim. Once the victim has been removed to a safe area and exposure to rescuers has been addressed, appropriate treatment should be initiated immediately. Life Saving measures should not be delayed to permit decontamination, but should be done simultaneously or immediately after decontamination. Be aware of the possibility of exposure to communicable diseases while handling a victim during a rescue. Transmission routes include blood, bodily fluids and droplet contamination via breathing. Use of barriers such as impermeable gloves, masks and body coverings and frequent hand washing and removal of any bodily fluids on the skin will minimize exposure. If a rescue is made of a contaminated, or possibly contaminated person, prevent the spread of the contaminant. The victim must be decontaminated to the best of your ability at the scene. After the decontamination, the victim, and the rescuers, may still be considered to be contaminated. The victim should be transported by personnel who have not entered the contaminated area. To prevent contamination of emergency department vehicles, facilities and personnel, the receiving hospital must be advised immediately of the situation so preparations can be made. Medical personnel must be prepared properly to receive and transport the victim and all personnel involved in transporting and treating the victim will wear appropriate protective clothing. Have all available information on the contaminant ready for the hospital. All personnel involved in the rescue and subsequent transport must be checked for contamination and should be medically monitored. Any transport vehicle must be checked to assure that it is not contaminated before it is returned to service.



MODULE 4

The 2000 Emergency response Guidebook

Outline

* How to use the 2000 Emergency Response Guidebook * Shipping papers and placards *4 digit ID No. and material name * Explosives * United Nations Classification System * Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distance tables

* 2000 Emergency Response Guidebook - (Handout) OBJECTIVES The students will be able to:

1. identify five pertinent items of hazmat information, given a property filled out shipping paper

2. state or demonstrate, utilizing a 2000, knowledge of:

a. the location of instructions for the use of the book. b. how to access information on a chemical, given only its four digit

l.D. number or its shipping name. c. where CHEMTREC information is listed. d. the use of the Table of Initial Isolation and Protective Action

Distance, given a specific chemical.

3. describe the responsibilities of a first responder at a motor vehicle accident.



How do you know what chemical is involved in an incident

The 2000 EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK will identify chemicals based on placards, labels, UN I.D. numbers and shipping papers and help determine your first emergency actions at an accident scene. Bear in mind that the NAERG was developed as an aid to emergency responders who deal with transportation incidents. It is of limited value to workers in fixed facilities where the facility’s emergency response plan assumes the critical role.

A sample of shipping papers appears on the inside cover of the NAERG. Shipping papers must accompany all hazardous material shipments and are in the truck’s cab, with the conductor of a train, the pilot of the plane, or on the bridge of a ship.

ID OF HAZARDS AND REMEDIAL ACTIONS FROM FOUR-DIGIT NUMBERS; NAERG page 1, item one and two. When a 4 digit ID number can be obtained, refer to the yellow pages part of the guidebook for the three digit guide number and then turn to that guide in the orange-edged pages.

LOOK UP UN # 2480 In the yellow pages of the NAERG. This is Methyl Isocyanate (Guide #155) and you will notice that it is highlighted. Highlighted materials can act like a poisonous gas when inhaled and information in addition to the (orange) guide section will be found in the green section (initial isolation and protective action distance table) of the NAERG. Note that the initial isolation and protective action distance table divides spills into “small” (one drum -55 gal. or less) or large (more than one drum).

ID OF HAZARDS AND REMEDIAL ACTIONS FROM NAME; When a shipping name can be obtained but no four digit ID number, refer to the blue pages of the guidebook for the appropriate guide number.

LOOK UP Phosgene” in the blue pages of the NAERG. What is its ID Number? Its Guide Number? Notice that it is highlighted; this refers you to the green pages in the back of the NAERG. Go to the green pages and locate phosgene by its UN number. The initial isolation radius for phosgene is; 300 feet for small spills and 2500 feet for large spills.

The Guide pages provide the most vital information in a brief, practical form. They identify the most significant potential hazard first. Read the number guide page carefully before taking action.

If you can only see a placard at an incident and make no identification beyond the UN hazard class, refer to the table of placards in the NAERG (page 16-17) for appropriate guide numbers to plan your initial response.

LOOK UP Red and White Striped Placard; What Guide Number does the chart refer you to? What is the most significant hazard of the product based on this Guide Page?

Remember that “CHEMTREC” (the Chemical Transportation Emergency Center) can provide immediate advice by telephone for the on scene incident commander at a chemical emergency 24 hours a day 1-800-424-9300.



If you deal with an incident involving military shipments, you can call the US Army Operations Center (703-697-0218/0219 collect) for explosives and ammunition incidents or the Defense Logistics Agency (800-851-8091) for other hazardous materials. Use these numbers in EMERGENCY SITUATIONS. Do not call them as part of a drill or just to see if anyone is there. Look up “Chlorine” (#1017) in the blue or yellow pages. Notice that it is highlighted; this refers you to the green pages in the back of the NAERG. Go to the green pages and locate chlorine by its UN number. The initial isolation radius is 100 feet for small spills and 900 feet for large spills. Look up “Ammonia” (UN #1005) in the green pages and compare initial isolation distances for small and Spill large leaks. “Ammonia” is the first chemical in the table. Initial isolation radius is 100 feet for a small spill and 200 feet for a large spill. Isolation procedures will be determined by the Incident Commander. NOW look up “Sodium cyanide” in the blue pages. What is its ID Number? Its Guide Number? Again, it is highlighted; so refer to the green pages. Instead of an initial isolation radius, the book tells you that this material is water reactive. The table of “Dangerous Water-Reactive in the back of the green pages tells that this material will produce hydrogen cyanide (HCN) when it comes in contact with water. Look this up in the blue pages and you will discover that it is a highlighted material, so it’s back to the green pages to find initial isolation and protective action distances for this new material. The hazard you have to handle may not come from the chemical initially spilled but from the compounds it produces when mixed with water or some other material. Note as you look through the blue and yellow sections of the book that some materials have a “P” after their listed guide numbers (eg. #1060,1081,1143,1251, etc.). This designates a material that could polymerize. After an initial isolation of a spill has been carried out, you may need to consider evacuation or sheltering in place to protect additional people downwind of the incident. Evacuation is a process with significant risk for those being moved; people will often be required to shelter in place as an alternative. To determine the area where people must be told to shelter in place (pg. 298 NAERG):

1. Find the material by number and name in the NAERG. 2. Look up the ID number (and name) in the green section of the NAERG. 3. Determine if the spill is “small” (less than one drum -55 gal.) or large (more than

one drum; a cargo tanker, rail car, or more). 4. Note the wind direction. 5. Check the INITIAL ISOLATION DISTANCE. Direct all persons to move that

distance away from the spill in a crosswind direction. 6. Next, check the initial PROTECTIVE ACTION DISTANCE. For each hazardous

material and spill size, the table gives the distance downwind in which protective actions should be considered. For practical purposes, the Protective Action Zone is a square whose length and width are the same as the downwind distance shown in the table.

7. Initiate Protective Actions to the extent that you are trained (according to directions from the IC), beginning with those closest to the site.



During sheltering in place, the people in any building in the Protective Action Zone should follow these procedures:

1. Shut down air handling equipment; buildings should be closed up tight and air-conditioning or incoming air can be shut down.

2. Maintain communications between emergency responders and competent persons inside the building so that they may be advised about changing conditions.

3. Stay away from windows in direct line-of-sight of the scene because of the danger from glass and projected metal fragments in the event of an explosion and/or fire.

Police agencies can access the NLETS system on their station computer terminals to get response information similar to that found in the 2000 EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK. Look ups can only be done using the four digit UN ID NUMBER.

1) Go to the NLETS “MENU”. 2) Then go to NLETS “REQUEST”. 3) Find (MQ) “Hazardous Materials”. 4) Then enter the four digit number for the material involved in the spill.

CHEMICAL WARFARE AGENTS CHEMICAL SYMBOL DOT

CLASSNAERGGUIDE#

UNID#

Nerve Agents: Tabun GA 6.1 153 2810 Sarin GB 6.1 153 2810 Soman GD 6.1 153 2810 V Agent VX 6.1 153 2810 BIister Agents: Mustard H 6.1 153 2810 Lewisite L 6.1 153 2810 Phosgene Oxime CX 6.1 153 2810 Blood Agents: Hydrogen Cyanide

AC 6.1 117 1051

Cyanogen Chloride

CK 2.3 125 1589

Choking Agents: Chlorine CL 2.3 124 1017 Phosgene 2.3 125 1076 Irritant Agents: Tear Gas CS - 159 1693 Mace CN - 153 Pepper Spray OC - 159


55

Module 5

LEVELS of Incidents and the Incident command system Outline The level of incident I thru III The Incident command system

• Command

• Operation

• Logistics

• Planning

• Finance

Objectives The students will be able to:

1. list the zones used to establish site control

2. list primary features of the ICS

3. list and describe the five functions of the ICS


55

The Hazmat Scene

The first responder with Awareness (level 1) training will help secure the scene, avoid exposure to the released material, protect the public from exposure and alert the appropriate authorities. Scene Control for first responders:

- Hot Zone - Warm Zone - Cold Zone (support area)

ESTIMATE OF INCIDENT LEVEL Levels of Incidents I thru Ill Response to a hazardous materials spill or release will involve many participants: police, firefighters, health personnel, emergency medical and others. Levels influence decisions. The severity of an incident influences decisions about the resources that may be committed. The incident level classification system aids decision makers who may be in a rear echelon position when required to make decisions. Responders who are advised of the level of the incident when departing for the response have a general idea of the nature of the hazmat incident that will confront them. FEMA criteria for the Levels of Incident:

Level I • Small Duration and/or Quantity • Low Impact • No Evacuation • Command Post • Hub of Management

Level II

• Larger Quantity, More Dangerous • Longer Duration Potential • Limited Evacuation • Moderate Impact • Fixed Command Post Established (C.P.) • Hub of Management • Limited activation of EOC Staff • Possible Outside Agencies

Level Ill

• Large Quantity or High-Impact Product • Long Duration, High Complexity • Will Tend to Tax Local Resources to Limit • Large-Scale, Possible Long-Term Evacuation • EOC Activated • Becomes Hub of Overall Management • C.P. Hub of Field Management • Definite Involvement of Multiple Levels of Government and Agencies


55

INCIDNET COMMAND SYSTMS (ICS)

The Incident Command System (ICS) is recognized as a system that is documented and has been successfully used in managing available resources at emergency operations. It consists of procedures for controlling personnel, facilities, equipment, and communications.

It is designed to begin developing from the time an incident occurs until the requirement for management and operations no longer exists. The “Incident Commander’ is a title which can apply equally to an engine company captain, or the chief of a police department, depending upon the situation. The structure of the ICS can be established and expanded depending upon the changing conditions of the incident. It is intended to be staffed and operated by qualified personnel from any emergency services agency and may involve personnel from a variety of agencies.

ICS can be utilized for any type or size of emergency, ranging from a minor incident involving a single unit, to major emergency involving several agencies. The ICS allows agencies to communicate using common terminology and operating procedures. It also allows for the timely combining of resources during any form of emergency response.

PRIMARY FEATURES OF THE INCIDENT COMMAND SYSTEM

Adaptability - an incident management system that readily adapted to any incident of any size.

Flexibility - expands or contracts as the incident changes by adding or subtracting ICS elements.

Span of Control - 5 subordinates (ideally) for one supervisor

Unity of Command

• established chain of command • everyone knows who’s in charge • everyone knows who to report to

ORGANIZATION AND OPERATION - The ICS has five major functional areas:

Incident Command

Operations Logistics Finance Administration Planning


55

Command: The command function manages the incident including the establishment of strategic goals and ordering or releasing resources. Command has responsibility for the other four functions until they are delegated.

Operations: The operations function directs all incident tactical resources to

accomplish the goals and objectives developed by command. Operations assures that the personnel and equipment at the scene are used to perform effective mitigation.

Planning: The planning function is responsible for the collection and

evaluation of information pertinent to the incident. This leads to the development of action plans. Planning is ongoing.

Logistics: The logistics function provides the services and supplies

needed to support tactical operations. It may be as simple as arranging for refueling of vehicles or as complicated as feeding hundreds of people.

Finance/Admin: The finance function procures equipment and supplies deemed

necessary to the incident. Finance also keeps records of overtime on longer, more complex operations.


55

MODULE 6

ROLES AND NOTIFICATION RESPONSIBILITIES OF MUNICIPAL, COUNTY

AND STATE ORGANIZATIONS Outline

• NJDEP Community Safety Program • NJ Worker and Community Right-to-Know Act • Notification Requirements • NJ Emergency Response Network • Role of the NJDEP & NJSP Responders • PEOHSA • County Environmental Health Act • Motor Vehicle Accidents (MVA) • NJDEP Incident Transfer & Follow-up • Decontamination

Objectives The students will be able to:

1. identify what state agency must be contacted when a spill/release occurs and list its 24 hour phone number.

2. identify what single action could activate the New Jersey Response

Network. 3. describe the role of the NJDEP responder (the three “A”s). 4. describe the NJDEP response policies on a Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA). 5. list two reasons why the first responder should be concerned about

decontamination when an incident is terminated. 7. identify and describe the law which gives public employees information

about hazardous materials in the workplace.


55

NEW JERSEY’S HAZARDOUS MATERIALS AND ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS

The most important features of all New Jersey Environmental Protection laws relating to hazardous materials and their emergencies are: Immediate notification of the State NJDEP and complete and immediate cleanup of the released material. By law, the only official notification telephone number to the State is the NJDEP 24-Hour Hotline -1 -877-WARNDEP. This facility is staffed and managed by the NJDEP as a 24 hour a day operation with radio and electronic media communications. All requests for information and assistance and notification can be attained through this 24-hour number. The NJDEP does not take charge of emergency responses. Home Rule prevails! They are there to:

1. Assess the scene. 2. Advise the local and state emergency leadership. 3. Assist local responders.

The NJDEP might appear to be in charge but they are not -- they are there as your guest!! They are there to assist local authorities. Remember that, once the fires have died down and the smoke has cleared, and everyone has gone home, the mess is still in your municipality. Municipal emergency forces are encouraged to create a better communications and protocol with the NJDEP, so that when hazardous materials incidents do happen, there is no hesitation to call for help because of a fear of being taken over by a state bureaucracy. MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENTS The three responsibilities of the first responder are to see that there is:

1) no washdown of hazardous materials into water sources. 2) spread absorbents downhill to keep the material from spreading. Avoid all

personal exposure. 3) notify appropriate higher authority and the NJDEP Hotllne.

The NJDEP generally does not respond to MVAs involving only motor vehicle fuels or other fluids unless they threaten a water body or potable waters. MVAs involving hazardous waste or hazardous materials generally will warrant a NJDEP response. Even if the NJDEP does not physically respond to the emergency, the Bureau of Emergency Response (BER) Duty Officer can still act as a resource on the phone via the Communications Center. Disposal of waste generated by a MVA should proceed in an environmentally sound manner consistent with 1984 RCRA provisions. NJDOT will remove up to 100 gallons of MVA generated hydrocarbons (gas and oil). NJDEP/BER regional offices can assist with information on disposal criteria for larger amounts.


55

YOU MUST NOT PERFORM ACTIONS BEYOND THE SCOPE OF YOUR

TRAINING AT ANY INCIDENT. The following list summarizes the major features of some of New Jersey’s environmental laws: Discharge of Petrochemical, and other Hazardous Substances (N.J.A.C. 7:1 E) This Law requires: a. Immediate notification to the NJDEP Hotline by the spiller. b. Immediate cleanup of the discharge by the spiller or responsible parties. c. Written follow-up report of discharge to the NJDEP. d. State supervision of cleanup if inappropriate or improper or not

expeditious. e. State assessment of cleanup costs at the rate of three times cost to spiller

(if State cleans up). f. Funding for appropriate emergency response equipment to recoup costs of

replacement or decontamination of equipment for expended or lost gear by Emergency Response personnel in the assisting or mitigation of the hazardous materials emergency.

Notification of Air Releases of Hazardous Materials (Public Law 1985, Chapter 12) This Law is a modification of the New Jersey Air Pollution Codes (N.J.A.C. 7:27). It requires the facility or releaser of a hazardous materials into the atmosphere (gas/vapor release) to: 1. Notify the NJDEP Hotline immediately. 2. Stop and contain the release. 3. Provide a follow-up report to the NJDEP. Fines are imposed for such releases and failures to report. Both of these above Laws have no minimum reporting quantities (as opposed to Federal Standards). Any amount of a solvent spilled on the roadway or a hazardous gas released into the atmosphere are considered eligible for reporting to the NJDEP Hotline. Inter-Agency Notification (Public Law 1984, Chapter 310) requires immediate notification between state and municipal organizations to inform each other of a release/spill of hazardous materials into the environment. It requires: a. Notification by the municipality to the NJDEP Hotline. b. Notification by the NJDEP to the Municipal Health Officer and Court Clerk. Generally, the most appropriate personnel to notify in a municipality are the Police Department and Fire Department. The NJDEP Hotline, after complying with the requirements of the Law, will make these notifications wherever possible. Remember, State agencies do not write the laws, they only enforce them. Toxic Catastrophe Prevention Act (NJSA 13:IK-19) is directed to facilities in New Jersey that store, use, etc. certain quantities of a specific group of identified hazardous materials that are considered “Extraordinarily Hazardous Substances.”


55

The Law specifically requires that the eligible facility: a. Register with the NJDEP. b. Submit to the NJDEP a Risk Management Plan. c. If the Plan is deficient or not descriptive, then the facility must: 1. Correct deficiencies and report to the NJDEP. If the facility does not have

a Risk Management Plan, it must prepare a work plan and have an independent consultant execute it.

2. If NJDEP is still unsatisfied with Plan, it will use Enforcement and

Administrative Orders to see that the facility amends its Plan as necessary

Do you have these facilities in your town? Probably, yes (Water Company or Sewage Treatment Authority; Chlorine). You are encouraged to make contact with these facilities and describe the role of your emergency service agency with their management. Discuss events and plans of attack if there were to be a release, fire or explosion involving these hazardous materials in you town. Both the New Jersey State Police, Office of Emergency Management and the NJDEP are asking and encouraging you to work with them in assuring the safety of your municipality and, your life. The Spill Compensation and Control Act (N.J.S.A. 58:10-23.11 et sea.) requires that all spills or other discharges of hazardous substances be reported to the Department. The Act provides for a fund for prompt containment and removal of a discharge and for compensation to persons damaged by a discharge. The New Jersey Worker and Community Right to Know Act (NJAC 8:59 and N.J.S.A. 34:5A-1 et sea.) requires employers to report information about hazardous chemicals used, produced or stored at their facilities. The law provides workers and residents with information they need in order to become aware of chemical hazards they may be exposed to at their workplace or in their community. The Act also establishes a statewide database of hazardous substances used in New Jersey. The Water Pollution Control Act (N.J.S.A. 58:IOA-1 et sea.) authorizes the Department to adopt and enforce rules and regulations to prevent, control or abate water pollution. The Pesticide Control Act (N.J.S.A. 13:IF-1 et sea.) authorizes the Department to adopt and enforce regulations governing the sale, use and application of all pesticides. Fish and Game, Wild Birds and Animals Statutes (N.J.S.A. 23:23:5-28) makes it a civil crime to place, drain, or otherwise store, wash or empty hazardous, deleterious, destructive, poisonous or residual materials in such a manner as to cause or likely to cause pollution of waters of the State. NJ Code of Criminal Justice (2C:17-2) “Causing or risking widespread injury or damage”, makes it a crime of the second degree to knowingly cause a hazardous discharge or abandon a toxic pollutant.


55

NJ DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

TRENTON DISPATCH HOTLINE - (877) 927-8337

INFORMATION TO BE GATHERED:

o TIME OF OCCURRENCE

o LOCATION

o RESPONSIBLE PARTY & CONTACT NUMBER

o MATERIAL INVOLVED

o ID OR CAS NUMBER

o AMOUNT INVOLVED

o GAS/LIQUID/SOLID?

o IS MATERIAL CONTAINED?

o INJURED/DEAD/EVACUATED?

o ROAD CLOSED?

o AGENCIES EN ROUTE/AT SCENE


55

MODULE 7

PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER Outline

• Discussion – Question and Answer • Quiz

OBJCTIVES The students will be able to: list or identify the four rules of safety for first responders


55

SCENE MANAGEMENT

Remember, at any incident, small or large, involving emergency response, one person must be in command; assess the situation and available resources, determine an appropriate incident action plan, monitor the plan’s effectiveness, and continually modify the plan to meet the realities of the situation. When responding to an incident remember the following guide:

1. Immediately notify your agency dispatcher that you are involved in a

possible hazardous materials incident. Establish command at a safe location (upwind, uphill) and provide dispatcher with the following information:

• location of command, i.e. Main St. command • exact location of incident • type or types of vehicles involved • type or types of structures involved • type of substance released or involved (6 CLUES) • amount of material released • presence of fire, spilled liquids, vapor leaks • physical state of property (gas, liquid, solid) • incident description • known injuries • public evacuations, public exposure? • assistance needed (i.e., haz mat teams, DEP) • route to approach scene safely (i.e., wind direction) • have dispatcher notify the DEP hotline.

2. Be alert to signs of escaping hazardous materials. Note sounds of escaping gas, odd smells, vapor clouds, etc.

3. Do not remain in the path of a vapor cloud or leaking materials. Vehicles can be an ignition source for flammable materials.

4. Do not use flares in the vicinity of flammable materials. For example, escaping clouds of propane could travel along the ground for hundreds of feet looking for an ignition source.

5. Establish an isolation distance and prohibit traffic from passing through the incident. This distance will depend on the type of material, amount of release, and the location of the incident.

6. Avoid contact with the material. 7. Many hazardous materials incidents need to be handled by personnel who

are better trained and have the personal protective clothing to handle the situation.


55

THE FOUR SAFETY RULES: 1. Protect yourself: make a safe

approach. 2. Identify hazards. 3. Secure the area. 4. Obtain further aid and

assistance.


55

APPENDIX

COMMON HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

SPILLS IN NEW JERSEY

SAMPLE NJ DOH HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE FACT SHEET

HANDLING A SUSPECT ANTHRAX LETTER INCIDENT

CHEM/BIO THREATS SCREENING QUESTIONNAIRE


55

NFPA HAZARD CLASSIFICATION OF COMMON HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

Substances DOT # Health Hazards

Flammables Reactivity

Acetone 1090 1 3 0 Ammonia 1005 3 1 0 Asphalt 1999 0 1 0 Benzene 1114 2 3 0 Chlorine 1017 3 0 0 Ethylene Glycol 1153 - - - Fuel Oil 1993 — — —

Gasoline 1203 1 3 0 Hydrochloric Acid 1789 3 0 0 Hydrogen Chloride 1050 3 0 0 Hydrogen Chloride 2186 3 0 0 Hydrogen Chloride 1789 3 0 0 Hydrofluoric Acid 1613 4 0 0 Hydrogen Fluoride 1052 4 0 0 Hydrogen Fluoride 1790 4 0 0 Hydrogen Sulfide 1053 3 4 0 Kerosene 1223 0 2 0 Mercury 2809 — — —

Naphtha 1255 0 2 0 Naphtha 1256 0 2 0 Naphtha 2553 0 2 0 Nitric acid 1760 3 0 0 Nitric acid 2031 3 0 0 Nitric acid 2032 3 0 0 Oil 1270 0-2 1-3 0 Oxygen 1072 3 0 0 Oxygen 1073 3 0 0 PCB 2315 - — —

Pesticides 2210 Pesticides 2588 Pesticides 2902 Pesticides 2903 Pesticides 3021 — — —

Propane 1978 1 4 0 Sodium Hydroxide 1823 3 0 1 Sodium Hydroxide 1824 3 0 1 Sodium Hypochlorite 1791 — — —

Sulfur Dioxide 1079 2 0 0 Sulfuric acid 1830 3 0 2 Sulfuric acid 1831 3 0 2 Sulfuric acid 1832 3 0 2 Toluene 1294 2 3 0 Trichloroethane 2831 2 1 0 Trichloroethylene 1710 2 1 0 Turpentine 1299 1 3 0 Xylene 1307 2 3 0


55

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL RELEASES IN NEW JERSEY (1995) There were approximately 20,000 reported hazardous material releases in New Jersey in 1995. This is a 64% increase in reported releases since 1991. The largest number of reported releases still involve petroleum fuels and oils. Oil now makes up 40% of the total releases as opposed to 60% in 1991. There were about 8400 petroleum products releases Including: Oil Transformer Oil

(with PCB) Asphalt

Fuel Oil Transmission Oil Mineral Spirits (Naptha)

Motor Oil Diesel Fuel Kerosene Hydraulic Oil Jet Fuel Tar Transformer Oil Gasoline Odors Frequently released products (20 or more reported releases):

Product: Releases

Product Releases

UNKNOWN 3200 Solvents 55 Sewage 1020 Ash & Fly Ash 55 Natural Gas 790 Asbestos 70 Antifreeze (& Ethylene Glycol)

840 Ammonia 70

Smoke 610 Freon 50 Carbon Monoxide 225 Propane 45 Contaminated Soil 165 Sulfuric Acid 40 Paint (Oil or Water Base) 120 Pesticides 30 NOX 95 Hydrogen Sulfide 30 Sulfur Dioxide 90 Hydrochloric Acid 20 Chlorine 85 Lead 20 Medical Waste 85 Infrequently released products ( 10 to 20 reported releases): Acetone Nitrogen Toluene Benzene Radioactives VOC Dye Soap Wastewater Herbicide Sodium hydroxide Xylene Nitrates Sodium hypochlorite Nitric Acid Tetrachloroethylene


55

New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services

HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE FACT SHEET Common Name: CAS Number: DOT Number: GASOLINE

8006-61-9 UN 1203

RTK Substance number: 0957 Date: July 1986 Revision: December 1996

HAZARD SUMMARY * Gasoline can affect you when breathed in and by passing

through your skin. * High exposures during pregnancy may damage the

developing fetus. * Contact can cause eye and skin irritation with possible

permanent eye damage. * Breathing Gasoline can irritate the nose and throat. * Repeated high exposure may cause lung damage and

brain damage. * High levels can cause headache, nausea, dizziness,

irregular heartbeat, seizures, and even death. * Gasoline may damage the kidneys. * Gasoline is a HIGHLY FLAMMABLE LIQUID and a

DANGEROUS FIRE HAZARD. IDENTIFICATION Gasoline is a clear liquid with a characteristic odor. It is used as a fuel for internal combustion engines and as a solvent. REASON FOR CITATION * Gasoline is on the Hazardous Substance List because it is

cited by ACGIH, NFPA, NIOSH and DOT. * This chemical is on the Special Health Hazard Substance

List because it is FLAMMABLE. * Definitions are provided on page 5. HOW TO DETERMINE IF YOU ARE BEING EXPOSED The New Jersey Right to Know Act requires most employers to label chemicals in the workplace and requires public employers to provide their employees with information and training concerning chemical hazards and controls. The federal OSHA

Hazard Communication Standard, 1910.1200, requires private employers to provide similar training and information to their employees. * Exposure to hazardous substances should be routinely

evaluated. This may include collecting air samples. Under OSHA 1910.20, you have a legal right to obtain copies of sampling results from your employer.

* If you think you are experiencing any work-related health problems, see a doctor trained to recognize occupational diseases. Take this Fact Sheet with you.

WORKPLACE EXPOSURE LIMITS ACGIH: The recommended airborne exposure limit is 300

ppm averaged over an 8-hour workshift and 500 ppm as a STEL (short term exposure limit).

* The above exposure limit is for ~ levels ~nIy. When skin

contact also occurs, you may be overexposed, even though air levels are less than the limits listed above.

WAYS OF REDUCING EXPOSURE * Where possible, enclose operations and use local exhaust

ventilation at the site of chemical release. If local exhaust ventilation or enclosure is not used, respirators should be worn. * Wear protective work clothing. * Post hazard and warning information in the work area. In

addition, as part of an ongoing education and training effort, communicate all information on the health and safety hazards of Gasoline to potentially exposed workers.


56

GASOLINE This Fact Sheet is a summary source of information of ~ll potential and most severe health hazards that may result from exposure. Duration of exposure, concentration of the substance and other factors will affect your susceptibility to any of the potential effects described below.

HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION

Acute Health Effects The following acute (short-term) health effects may occur immediately or shortly after exposure to Gasoline:

* Contact can cause eye and skin irritation. * Breathing Gasoline can cause irritation of the nose and

throat causing cough and wheezing. * High levels can cause headache, nausea, dizziness,

irregular heartbeat; poor coordination, seizures, coma, and even death.

Chronic Health Effects The following chronic (long-term) health effects can occur at some time after exposure to Gasoline and can last for months or years:

Cancer Hazard * There is limited evidence that Gasoline causes cancer in

animals. It may cause cancer of the kidney. * Many scientists believe there is no safe level of exposure

to a carcinogen.

Reproductive Hazard * High exposures during pregnancy may damage the

developing fetus.

Other Long-Term Effects * Repeated exposure can cause permanent eye damage. * Prolonged contact can cause a rash with drying and

cracking pf the skin. * Repeated high exposure may damage the lungs. * Repeated exposure may cause poor appetite, muscle

weakness, cramps, and possible brain damage. * Gasoline may damage the kidneys. * Since Gasoline often contains Lead and Benzene, these

can also cause toxic effects. CONSULT THE HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE FACT SHEETS ON

TETRAETHYL LEAD. BENZENE and ETHYLENE DIBROMiDE.

MEDICAL Any evaluation should include a careful history of past and present symptoms with an exam. Medical tests that look for damage already done are n~ a substitute for controlling exposure. Request copies of your medical testing. You have a legal right to this information under OSHA 1910.20. WORKPLACE CONTROLS AND PRACTICES Unless a less toxic chemical can be substituted for a hazardous substance, ENGINEERING CONTROLS are the most effective way of reducing exposure. The best protection is to enclose operations and/or provide local exhaust ventilation at the site of chemical release. Isolating operations can also reduce exposure. Using respirators or protective equipment is less effective than the controls mentioned above, but is sometimes necessary. In evaluating the controls present in your workplace, consider: (I) how hazardous the substance is, (2) how much of the substance is released into the workplace and (3) whether harmful skin or eye contact could occur. Special controls should be in place for highly toxic chemicals or when significant skin, eye, or breathing exposures are possible. In addition, the following control is recommended: * Where possible, automatically pump liquid Gasoline from

drums, barrels, or other storage containers to process containers. Good WORK PRACTICES can help to reduce hazardous exposures. The following work practices are recommended: * Workers whose clothing has been contaminated by

Gasoline should change into clean clothing promptly. * Do not take contaminated work clothes home. Family

members could be exposed. * Contaminated work clothes should be laundered by

individuals who have been informed of the hazards of exposure to Gasoline.

* Wash a~y areas of the body that may have contacted Gasoline at the end of each work day, whether or not known skin contact has occurred.

* Do not eat, smoke, or ‘drink where Gasoline is handled, processed, or stored, since the chemical can be swallowed. Wash hands carefully before eating or smoking.

Medical Testing If symptoms develop or overexposure has occurred, the following may be useful:

of 6

* Urinary Lead level.

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

WORKPLACE CONTROLS ARE BETTER THAN PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT. However, for some jobs (such as outside work, confined space entry, jobs done only once in a while, or jobs done while workplace controls are being installed), personal protective equipment may be appropriate. The following recommendations are only guidelines and may not apply to every situation.

Clothing * Avoid skin contact with Gasoline. Protective “barrier”

creams are available to help lower skin absorption. Wear protective gloves and clothing. Safety equipment suppliers/manufacturers can provide recommendations on the most protective glove/clothing material for your operation.

* All protective clothing (suits, gloves, footwear, headgear) should be clean, available each day, and put on before work.

Eye Protection

* Wear splash-proof chemical goggles when working with liquid, unless full facepiece respiratory protection is worn.

Respiratory Protection IMPROPER USE OF RESPIRATORS IS DANGEROUS. Such equipment should only be used if the employer has a written program that takes into account workplace conditions, requirements for worker training, respirator fit testing and medical exams, as described in OSHA 1910.134. * Where the potential exists for exposures over 300

ppm, use a MSHAINIOSH approved full facepiece respirator with an organic vapor cartridge/canister. Even greater protection is provided by a powered-air purifying respirator with a full facepiece.

* If while wearing a filter, cartridge or canister respirator, you can smell, taste, or otherwise detect Gasoline, or in the case of a full facepiece respirator you experience eye irritation, leave the area immediately. Check to make sure the respirator-to-face seal is still good. If it is, replace the filter, cartridge, or canister. If the seal is no longer good, you may need a new respirator.

* Be sure to consider all potential exposures in your workplace. You may need a combination of filters, prefilters, cartridges, or canisters, to protect against different forms of a chemical (such as vapor and mist)

or against a mixture of chemicals. * Where the potential for high exposures exists, use a

MSHA/NIOSH approved supplied-air respirator with a full facepiece operated in the positive pressure mode or with a full facepiece, hood, or helmet in the continuous

flow mode, or use a MSHA/NIOSH approved self-contained breathing apparatus with a full facepiece operated in pressure-demand or other positive pressure mode.

HANDLING AND STORAGE

* Prior to working with Gasoline you should be trained

on its proper handling and storage.

* Sources of ignition such as smoking and open flames are

prohibited where Gasoline is handled, used, or stored. * Metal containers involving the transfer of Gasoline

should be grounded and bonded. * Use only non-sparking tools and equipment,

especially when opening and closing containers of Gasoline.

* Wherever Gasoline is used, handled, manufactured, or stored, use explosion-proof electrical equipment and fittings.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q: If I have acute health effects, will I later get chronic

health effects? A: Not always. Most chronic (long-term) effects result

from repeated exposures to a chemical.

Q: Can I get long-term effects without ever having short-term effects?

A: Yes, because long-term effects can occur from repeated exposures to a chemical at levels not high enough to make you immediately sick.

Q: What are my chances of getting sick when I have

been exposed to chemicals? A: The likelihood of becoming sick from chemicals is

increased as the amount of exposure increases. This is determined by the length of time and the amount of material to which someone is exposed.

Q: When are higher exposures more likely? A: Conditions which increase risk of exposure include

physical and mechanical processes (heating, pouring, spraying, spills and evaporation from large surface areas such as open containers), and “confined space” ~~jjg~

GASOLINE page 3 of 6

* Urinary Lead level.

(working inside vats, reactors, boilers, small rooms, etc.).

Q: Is the risk of getting sick higher for workers

than for community residents? A: Yes. Exposures in the community, except

possibly in cases of fires or spills, are usually

much lower than those found in the workplace. However, people in the community may be exposed to contaminated water as well as to chemicals in the air over long periods. Because of this, and because of exposure of children or

58 people who are already ill, community exposures may cause health problems.

GASOLINE Q: Don’t all chemicals cause cancer? A: No. Most chemicals tested by scientists are not

cancer-causing. Q: Should I be concerned if a chemical causes cancer in

animals? A: Yes. Most scientists agree that a chemical that

causes cancer in animals should be treated as a suspected human carcinogen unless proven otherwise.

Q: But don’t they test animals using much higher levels

of a chemical than people usually are exposed to? A: Yes. That’s so effects can be seen more clearly

using fewer animals. But high doses alone do not cause cancer unless it is a cancer agent. In fact, a chemical that causes cancer in animals at high doses could cause cancer in humans exposed to low doses.

Q: Can men as well as women be affected by chemicals

that cause reproductive system damage? A: Yes. Some chemicals reduce potency or fertility in

both men and women. Some damage sperm and eggs, possibly leading to birth defects.

Q: Who is at the greatest risk from reproductive

hazards? A: Pregnant women are at greatest risk from chemicals

which harm the developing fetus. However, chemicals may affect the ability to have children, so both men and women of childbearing age are at high risk.

The following information is available from:

New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services

Occupational Disease and Injury Services Trenton, NJ 08625-0360 (609) 984-1863

Industrial Hygiene Information Industrial hygienists are available to answer your questions regarding the control of chemical exposures using exhaust ventilation, special work practices, good housekeeping, good hygiene practices. and personal protective equipment including respirators. In addition, they can help to interpret the results of industrial hygiene survey data. Medical Evaluation If you think you are becoming sick because of exposure to chemicals at your workplace, you may call a Department of Health and Senior Services physician who can help you find the services you need. Public Presentations Presentations and educational programs on occupational health or the Right to Know Act can be organized for labor unions, trade associations and other groups. Right to Know Information Resources The Right to Know Infoline (609) 984-2202 can answer questions about the identity and potential health effects of chemicals, list of educational materials in occupational health, references used to prepare the Fact Sheets, preparation of the Right to Know survey, education and training programs, labeling requirements, and general information regarding the Right to Know Act. Violations of the law should be reported to (609) 984-2202.

of 6

59

GASOLINE DEFINITIONS

ACGIH is the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. It recommends upper limits (called TLVs) for exposure to workplace chemicals. A carcinogen is a substance that causes cancer. The CAS number is assigned by the Chemical Abstracts Service to identify a specific chemical. A combustible substance is a solid, liquid or gas that will burn. A corrosive substance is a gas, liquid or solid that causes irreversible damage to human tissue or containers. DEP is the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. DOT is the Department of Transportation, the federal agency that regulates the transportation of chemicals. EPA is the Environmental Protection Agency, the federal agency responsible for regulating environmental hazards. A fetus is an unborn human or animal. A flammable substance is a solid, liquid, vapor or gas that will ignite easily and burn rapidly. The flash point is the temperature at which a liquid or solid gives off vapor that can form a flammable mixture with air. HHAG is the Human Health Assessment Group of the federal EPA. IARC is the International Agency for Research on Cancer, a scientific group that classifies chemicals according to their cancer-causing potential. A miscible substance is a liquid or gas that will evenly dissolve in another. mg/rn3 means milligrams of a chemical in a cubic meter of air. It is a measure of concentration (weight/volume). MSHA is the Mine Safety and Health Administration, the federal agency that regulates mining. It also evaluates and approves respirators. A mutagen is a substance that causes mutations. A mutation is a change in the genetic material in a body cell. Mutations can

lead to birth defects, miscarriages, or cancer. NAERG is the North American Emergency Response Guidebook. It was jointly developed by Transport Canada, the United States Department of Transportation and the Secretariat of Communications and Transportation of Mexico. It is a guide for first responders to quickly identify the specific or generic hazards of material involved in a transportation incident, and to protect themselves and the general public during the initial response phase of the incident. NCI is the National Cancer Institute, a federal agency that determines the cancer-causing potential of chemicals. NFPA is the National Fire Protection Association. It classifies substances according to their fire and explosion hazard. NIOSH is the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. It tests equipment, evaluates and approves respirators, conducts studies of workplace hazards, and proposes standards to OSHA. NTP is the National Toxicology Program which tests chemicals and reviews evidence for cancer. OSHA is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, which adopts and enforces health and safety standards. PEOSHA is the Public Employees Occupational Safety and Health Act, a state law which sets PELs for New Jersey public employees. ppm means parts of a substance per million parts of air. It is a measure of concentration by volume in air. A reactive substance is a solid, liquid or gas that releases energy under certain conditions. A teratogen is a substance •that causes birth defects by damaging the fetus. TLV is the Threshold Limit Value, the workplace exposure limit recommended by ACGIH. The vapor pressure is a measure of how readily a liquid or a solid mixes with air at its surface. A higher vapor pressure indicates a higher concentration of the substance in air and therefore increases the likelihood of breathing it in.

6

60

> E M E R G E N C Y page 6 of 6

I N F 0 R M A T I 0 N <

Common Name: DOT Number:

NAERG Code:

CAS Number: GASOLINE

UN 1203 128

8006-61.9 FOR LARGE SPILLS AND FIRES immediately call your fire department. You can request emergency information from the following:

Hazard Rating Key: O=minimal; 1 =slight; 2=moderate;

3=serious; 4=severe FIRE HAZARDS * Gasoline is a FLAMMABLE LIQUID. * CONTAINERS MAY EXPLODE IN FIRE. * POISONOUS GASES ARE PRODUCED IN FIRE. * Use dry chemical, CO2. or foam extinguishers. * If employees are expected to fight fires, they must be trained

and equipped as stated in OSHA 1910.156. SPILLS AND EMERGENCIES If Gasoline is spilled or leaked, take the following steps: * Restrict persons not wearing protective equipment from

area of spill or leak until clean-up is complete. * Remove all ignition sources. * Ventilate area of spill or leak. * Absorb liquids in vermiculite, dry sand, earth, or a

similar material and deposit in sealed containers. * Keep Gasoline out of a confined space, such as a sewer,

because of the possibility of an explosion, unless the sewer is designed to prevent the build-up of explosive concentrations.

* It may be necessary to contain and dispose of Gasoline as a HAZARDOUS WASTE. Contact your Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) or your regional office of the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for specific recommendations.

* If employees are required to clean-up spills, they must be properly trained and equipped. OSHA 1910.120(q) may be applicable.

CHEMTREC: (800)424-9300 NJDEP HOTLINE: (609) 292-7172 HANDLING AND STORAGE ( See page 3) FIRST AID In NJ. POISON INFORMATION 1-800-962-1253 Eye Contact * Immediately flush with large amounts of water for at least

15 minutes, occasionally lifting upper and lower lids. Skin Contact * Quickly remove contaminated clothing. Immediately

wash contaminated skin with large amounts of soap and water.

Breathing * Remove the person from exposure. * Begin rescue breathing if breathing has stopped and CPR if

heart action has stopped. * Transfer promptly to a medical facility. PHYSICAL DATA Flash Point: -500F (-45.60C) Water Solubility: Insoluble OTHER COMMONLY USED NAMES Chemical Name: Gasoline Other Names: Petrol Not intended to be copied and sold for commercial purposes.

Hazard rating NJ DOH NFPA FLAMMABILITY - 3 REACTIVITY 0

CONTAINERS MAY EXPLODE IN FIRE POISONOUS GASES ARE PRODUCED IN FIRE

6

NEW JERSEY DEPARThIENT OF HEALTH AND SENIOR SERVICES Right to Know Program

CN 368, Trenton, NJ 08625-0368 (609) 984-2202

6

Bibliography: 1996 North America Emergency Response Guidebook, 1996 by Transport Canada (TC), U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), and Secretariat of Communications and Transportation of Mexico (SCT) Cargo Tank Hazardous Material Regulations, July 1995 by National Tank Truck Carriers, Inc. Alexandria, VA 22314-4677 DEP Hotline Database Domestic Preparedness Training Program. 1998 by Booz-AIlen & Hamilton Inc., EAI Corporation, Science Applications International Corporation Inc., and DPI Inc.

6

HANDLING A SUSPECT ANTHRAX INCIDENT Note: This guidelines apply to suspect Anthrax only. Responding to other materials / chemicals may pose other risks and the handling of such items will differ. Remember, in any case respond as you would a hazardous materials incident based on your level of training and equipment. What Constitutes A Suspicious Letter or Parcel? 1. Does the letter or parcel have any powdery substance on the outside? 2. Is this an unexpected letter or parcel or is it from someone unfamiliar? 3. Is there excessive postage, handwritten or poorly typed address, incorrect titles with no

name or misspellings of common words? 4. Is it addressed to someone no longer with your organization or are otherwise

outdated? 5. Does the letter or parcel lack a return address or does it have one that can’t be verified

legitimate? 6. It is of unusual weight for its size, or is it lopsided or oddly shaped? 7. Does it have an unusual amount of tape? 8. Is the letter or parcel marked with restrictive endorsements, such as “Personal”” or

“Confidential?” Does it have strange odors or stains? What Should You Do If An Anthrax Threat Is Received by Mail? 1. Do not handle, shake or empty the contents of the mail piece or package suspected of

contamination. 2. Make sure that damaged or suspicious packages are isolated and the immediate area

cordoned off. Cover the envelope or package with anything (clothing, paper, trash can, etc.) and do not remove the cover.

3. Ensure that all persons who have touched the mail piece wash their hands with soap and water.

4. Notify your local law enforcement authorities. Remember, this is a crime scene. 5. List all persons who have touched the letter and/or envelope, include contact

information and have this information available for the authorities. 6. Place all items worn when in contact with the suspected mail piece in plastic bags and

have them available for law enforcement authorities. 7. As soon as practical, shower with soap and water. INITIAL RESPONSE The responding law enforcement officer should obtain as much information as possible prior to arrival and consider proper precautionary measures in dealing with hazardous materials emergencies. Care must be taken not to over-react, under-react, or to operate outside of the police officer’s level of training and personal protective equipment. Be mindful that the real problem facing the responding agency and the surrounding public may be the panic, misinformation and paranoia associated with the incident. Remember police vehicle lights and sirens may create public panic and disorder. Upon arrival, police officer should secure and cordon off the area. Identity should be made of any potentially contaminated individuals. These individuals should be advised to decontaminate by using a soap and water wash.

6

Since the most harmful method of dissemination is by spores in the air, therefore, limit the chances of the material from becoming airborne. If it is a work place setting, it is recommended that the facility shut down, or at a minimum, control the ventilation system for the secured area surrounding the letter. Do not have other personnel go near the area and advise those involved individuals that the scene has the potential to be an active crime scene. INITIAL INVESTIGATION Information should be obtained and investigation conducted to identify, legitimize or confirm the authenticity of the letter. DO NOT contact, handle, remove or package the letter if it contains a suspicious material (i.e., powder). CREDIBLE VERSUS NON-CREDIBLE SUSPECT LETTER In the event that the suspect letter is deemed to be a CREDIBLE THREAT by trained hazardous material personnel or it meets all three of the following N.J. Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) established criteria: 1. the item was recently introduced from an external source or was / is discovered in a

public area of a business or other public place, and

2. the letter was addressed to a government agency, public figure, public utility, high profile businesses, etc.,

and 3. the suspect item or its contents are visibly contaminated with a powdery substance; then the material(s) should be collected by qualified hazardous materials personnel and delivered by a uniformed police officer to the designated DHSS intake facility. A confirmed case number must be coordinated with DHSS prior to the delivery of the materials. In the event that the suspect letter is deemed to be a NON-CREDIBLE THREAT, the following procedures should be adhered to: 1. Non-credible suspect Anthrax letters not to be routinely collected as evidence. 2. Individuals / owners who report incidents involving a non-credible Anthrax threat shall

be advised that the item believed to be suspicious has been deemed non-credible. If the individuals / owners insist that the police officer remove the item from their location for destruction, the police officer should comply by triple plastic bagging the item(s) and sealing all three bags individually with the outside bag labeled in large block lettering DESTROY. The law enforcement agency with jurisdiction should follow their protocols and established guidelines for destruction of property.