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Terrorism/Hazardous Materials Awareness for First Responders in Ontario: Self-Study
Location: Office of the Fire Marshal Home > Publications > Terrorism/Hazardous Materials Awareness for First Responders in Ontario: Self-Study
Terrorism/Hazardous Materials Awareness for First Responders in Ontario: Self-Study
In light of recently heightened concerns for public safety as a result of acts of terrorism, the Office of the Fire Marshal, in consultation with its stakeholders has prepared this new revised self study course which combines the two original courses entitled Terrorism Awareness for First Responders in Ontario, and Hazardous Materials Awareness for First Responders in Ontario. This new course will replace the other two courses as of December31st 2003. All three courses are available on this website until that date in order to enable those who may have started on an original course to complete it.
We strongly encourage all first responders and those responsible for emergency response in Ontario to take this awareness level course.
Introduction: Course Overview 425 kB
Module 1: Roles and Responsibilities of First Responders 483 kB
Module 2: Safety 502 kB
Module 3: Recognition and Identification 650 kB
Module 4: Response and Incident Management 755 kB
Bibliography 320 kB
Glossary 740 kB
Application for Certification 339 kB
All files are in PDF (Portable Document Format)
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http://www.gov.on.ca/OFM/pubsafet/TerrorHazmat.htm (1 of 2) [7/4/2003 2:11:49 PM]
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Terrorism/Hazardous Materials Awareness for First Responders in Ontario: Self-Study
Comments and feedbackContact our offices directly.
© Queen's Printer for Ontario, 2003
Last Modified: June 26, 2003
http://www.gov.on.ca/OFM/pubsafet/TerrorHazmat.htm (2 of 2) [7/4/2003 2:11:49 PM]
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Office of the Fire Marshal Ministry of Public Safety And Security
Ontario, Canada
This course has been developed using material by permission from the Michigan State Police Emergency Management Division
Michigan Hazardous Materials Training Center And
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
June 2003
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Foreword
In light of the recently heightened concerns for public safety as a result of acts and threats of terrorism, the Office of the Fire Marshal, in consultation with its stakeholders, has prepared this self-study
course as an introduction to the basic concepts for first responder awareness (fire, police, ambulance and health) at the scene of incidentsinvolving hazardous materials or acts of terrorism. This course uses material from existing courses prepared by the Michigan Hazardous Materials Training Centre, Michigan State Police, Emergency Management Division and by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). These materials have been modified and used with permission, for delivery in Ontario. Material from the earlier version of the self-study course entitled “Terrorism Awareness” has been integrated into this new course now entitled “Terrorism/Hazardous Materials Awareness for First Responders in Ontario: Self-Study”. First responders who have previously take either the “Terrorism Awareness” or the “Hazardous Materials Awareness” self study courses do not have to take this new course. The original two courses will remain on the website until December 31, 2003 to enable completion by those who have already started them. This new course meets or exceeds the standards contained in NFPA 472, Standard for Professional Competence of Responders to Hazardous Materials Incidents (2002 Edition). The purpose of NFPA 472 is to specify minimum competencies for those who will respond to hazardous materials incidents. We gratefully acknowledge the many stakeholders and content experts, who were consulted in the development of this course.
Bernard A. Moyle Fire Marshal of Ontario
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Table of Contents
The Importance of This Training .............................................................. 4
Course Overview...................................................................................... 4
Target Audience ...................................................................................... 5
How to Complete This Course.................................................................. 6
Safety, The Most Important Issue ............................................................ 6
Module 1: Roles and Responsibilities of First Responders ...................................... 8
Module 2: Safety ................................................................................................. 18
Module 3: Recognition and Identification. ............................................................ 32
Module 4: Response and Incident Management ................................................... 52
Answers to Learning Checks.................................................................. 65
Bibliography.......................................................................................... 67
Glossary................................................................................................ 69
Appendix A: Application for Certificate of Completion ……………………107
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The Importance of This Training You are one of the first to arrive on the scene of an incident that may be the result of an act of terrorism and may involve hazardous materials. As a first responder trained at the awareness level, you are among the first to initiate an emergency response sequence by notifying the proper authorities. In this role you require the following competencies, which you can acquire through training and professional experience: • an understanding of the risks associated with hazardous materials,
including chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear hazards. • an understanding of the potential outcomes associated with
hazardous materials incidents. • the ability to recognize the presence of, and identify hazardous
materials. • the ability to preserve evidence of a criminal act, document and/or
photograph it, when appropriate, in a manner (to be) acceptable in a court of law.
• an understanding of the role of the first responder as it relates to components of an emergency plan, including site security and the 2000 Emergency Response Guidebook (2000 ERG) This guidebook is distributed free of charge to Public Safety Organizations by Transport Canada, Safety and Security
• the ability to recognize the need for additional resources, and to make appropriate notifications to an emergency communication centre.
• the ability to self-protect, ensuring that responder safety is always the first priority.
Course Overview The purpose of this course is to provide participants with a general introduction to the basic concepts for first responder awareness at the scene of an incident that involves terrorism or hazardous materials. This course consists of four Self-Study modules, a glossary, and an appendix. Participants who complete this Self-Study course and submit the required application form will receive a Certificate of Completion from the Ontario Fire College (See Appendix “A”). Module 1: Roles and Responsibilities of Emergency Responders – defines hazardous materials, terrorism, attack vulnerability factors and
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provides an overview of responsibilities of a first responder trained to the awareness level, at such incidents. Module 2: Safety - describes the complexity and impact that chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear materials can present, and focuses on the maintenance of safety for first responders, in order to mitigate harm caused by these incidents. Module 3: Recognition and Identification - explains how first responders can use the many clues and resources available to recognize and identify hazardous materials. Limitations of class and placarding systems are also addressed. Module 4: Response and Incident Management - describes initial response and arrival considerations and the appropriate course of action for scene isolation and evacuation in a suspected terrorist incident involving hazardous materials. A Bibliography is included to help you continue learning after you have completed the course. This consists of a list of references that may be helpful in learning more about hazardous materials incidents. The Glossary contains definitions of terms related to first responder awareness responsibilities and operations. Many of these terms are used in the four modules. Target Audience This course is based on the NFPA 472 Standard on Hazardous Materials, at the awareness level. It is intended for first responders who have not taken other existing courses based on this Standard. The primary target audience for this course includes four groups of people:
• • • • •
fire service personnel emergency medical service responders hazardous materials responders law enforcement personnel in addition, this course is also designed to benefit emergency communications personnel Community Emergency Management Coordinators municipal emergency co-ordinators emergency management personnel
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public health workers security personnel plant protection staff
How to Complete This Course Just a few suggestions to help you gain more from your Self-Study
learning experience. You will benefit most if you do not rush through this course. Do not try to read it cover-to-cover in one sitting. At the end of each Module, there are learning checks. The learning checks will help you evaluate your understanding
of the material. If you are unable to answer all of the questions correctly, you may want to read the corresponding materials again and repeat the questions until you are confident of the correct answers. This course, or any part of it, may be duplicated, for the purpose of training, but not for sale, without copyright restrictions. Safety, The Most Important Issue As a first responder, safety is your most important concern. You must protect yourself so that you can protect your fellow responders and the public. If you do not arrive safely at the incident scene, or if you become injured or incapacitated in any way, you will be unable to provide the services required by the initial call for help. We need to examine some of the pertinent issues of scene control, keeping your safety and survival in mind. All emergency operations must be organized to be successful. Remember that the initial actions taken by the first responders will affect the final outcome of the incident. An organized and well-managed incident creates a safer environment for all involved. One of the best ways to understand the nature of organization is to view it from a systems approach. A system is a unit of interrelated, dependent parts or functions designed to achieve a common goal. Many first responders think they are capable of handling any hazardous materials incident, which may occur in their jurisdiction. These same first responders feel obligated to the people in their organizations and communities to quickly handle any and all hazardous materials incidents, many times without additional help. However, recent incidents indicate that many of us are extremely limited in our ability to
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deal with these incidents. It is this limited ability that all response personnel must recognize, acknowledge and accept. The first responder’s response plan for a terrorist or hazardous materials incident must focus on the limitations of the organization as well as the individual responder. If responders can safely and effectively handle an incident within the boundaries of their limitations, they should do so. If not, the scene should be secured to assure the preservation of evidence, the safety of the response personnel as well as the citizens located in the immediate area. The first responder may perform some limited tasks such as population protective actions as soon as the scene is secure, providing it is done in a safe manner. This may mean that any rescue attempt of trapped victims exposed to the hazardous materials is delayed until the arrival of the agencies capable of such a task. A Hands Off! approach must be initiated and maintained until the safety of response personnel can be assured. Emergency response personnel and organizations must accept the fact that, given these circumstances, trapped victims may be beyond help. We must accept the Hands Off! approach to handling hazardous materials or potential terrorist incidents. WARNING: If you suspect a chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear incident, this course does not provide you with the necessary training to protect yourself. Your principal responsibility in such an instance is to call those responders who have the appropriate training and equipment.
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Learning Objectives After completing this Module, you will be able to: • define hazardous materials/dangerous goods • define terrorism and recognize the chief characteristics of terrorist
activities • identify appropriate responder activities and considerations at a
terrorism crime scene • identify chief characteristics of chemical, biological, radiological
and nuclear terrorist threats • describe the roles and responsibilities of first responders trained to
the awareness level, at incidents involving hazardous materials or dangerous goods
Hazardous materials surround us every day, everywhere. As emergency response personnel, it is likely that you will be the first to arrive at an incident involving hazardous materials. It is important for you to be aware of the types of hazardous materials transported and stored in your community, to know how terrorist activities can affect those locations, be able to assess the likelihood of the presence of hazardous materials, be able to identify unknown hazardous materials when encountered, and to know where and how to obtain expert help to assist in the abatement of the hazardous condition caused by the incident. Terrorists have the knowledge and capability to unleash chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear hazards anywhere in the world. All communities are vulnerable to incidents involving terrorism. Most communities contain some high visibility targets. These targets are usually situated along routes with high transportation and access potential. Many may have manufacturing and testing facilities. Other examples of prime target areas include: • public buildings or locations with large numbers of people • mass transit systems such as subways or airports • places with high economic impact • telecommunications facilities • places with historical, symbolic or religious significance.
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The primary purposes of this course are to: • •
introduce public safety personnel to the “first responder” concept emphasize the importance of the first responder’s safety at hazardous materials incidents whether those incidents are intentional or accidental
1. Approach, Identify and Communicate
When first responders trained to the awareness level approach an incident that could involve hazardous materials, they must use caution and recognize the signs of danger, take protective actions, and communicate appropriately. This module provides a brief introduction to the roles and responsibilities of first responders in situations to be expanded upon later in this course.
1.1 Terminology
a. Hazardous material is any substance or form that may
pose an unreasonable risk to health, safety or property. In Canada, the term “dangerous goods” is used to describe hazardous materials in transport and/or storage.
b. As defined in the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act,
dangerous goods/hazardous materials are any substances that pose an unreasonable risk to life, the environment or property when not properly contained. Because this course is based on NFPA 472 Standard on Professional Competence of Responders to Hazardous Materials Incidents, for the purpose of this course, the terms hazardous materials and dangerous goods will be used interchangeably.
c. First responders at the awareness level are those persons
who, in the course of their normal duties, could be the first on the scene of an emergency involving hazardous materials. First responders at the awareness level are expected to recognize the presence of hazardous materials, protect themselves, call for trained personnel and secure the area (NFPA 472, 1997). Further, they must have a good understanding of the 2000 Emergency Response Guidebook
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(2000 ERG), distributed through the Canadian Transport Emergency Centre (CANUTEC).
d. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) the
definition of Terrorism is the unlawful use of force against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population or any segment thereof, in the furtherance or political or social objectives. This definition includes three elements: 1. terrorist activities are illegal and involve use of force. 2. the actions intend to intimidate or coerce. 3. the actions are committed in support of political or social
objectives.
2. Approach and Detect the Presence of Hazardous Materials
2.1 Approach Cautiously
The 2000 Emergency Response Guidebook (2000 ERG) states – “Resist the urge to rush in: others cannot be helped until the situation has been fully assessed”. Therefore it is important to approach an incident site with caution and only if safe approach avenues are available. In order to exercise appropriate caution: • •
•
approach incident from upwind, uphill, upstream stop at a safe distance and use binoculars (if available) to size up the incident scene; observe markings, placards, or other clues park emergency response vehicle at the side of the road facing away from the incident
Keep in mind that many biological agents and chemical gases are odourless, colourless. Some are heavier than air and hence may accumulate in low-lying areas. Therefore, approach from upwind to keep from coming in contact with vapours dispersed by a misting or spray device. When approaching the scene of a hazardous materials incident, first responders must be cautious, deliberate and aware that the incident could have been caused intentionally (terrorism) and would therefore be considered a crime scene. During the initial approach, be aware of clues that might indicate a crime has been committed and be sensitive to law
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enforcement’s need for preservation of crime scene evidence. In order to ensure successful prosecution of the guilty person(s), physical evidence obtained at the site provides incontestable facts. All your activities need to be coordinated with law enforcement personnel at the scene. In Ontario, all terrorism incidents are within the jurisdiction of the RCMP. First Responders must also be aware of and observe for potential deployment or use of secondary explosive devices for the sole purpose of causing bodily harm to public safety personnel..
Clandestine drug/chemical manufacturing laboratories often contain toxic and explosive chemicals that may present problems for the first responder. You must be aware of the potential dangers when responding to an incident involving this type of operation. These “facilities” can be located in highly populated areas as well as rural locations. They must always be approached with caution. A location involving this type of incident must be viewed as a crime scene. Once identified, these facilities should not be approached by first responders trained to the awareness level. Under no circumstances should first responders enter such “facilities” until they have been secured and rendered safe by the policing authority.
2.2 Secure the Area When chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear materials are suspected, it is essential to provide good scene security. First responders must: • •
secure the area surrounding the incident scene establish a hazard zone that will keep non-emergency response personnel well out of danger
It may be necessary to patrol the perimeter of the zone to keep spectators at a safe distance.
2.3 Assess the Situation
A thorough assessment of the situation is the key to ensuring that a hazardous materials incident is dealt with in an effective manner. The following points need to be considered:
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• • • •
• • • • • •
is there a spill or leak: vapour or liquid or both? is there a fire, or the potential for fire/explosion? are there obvious multiple victims, animal or human? be aware of the possible presence of a secondary device intended to injure first responders what are the weather conditions, winds, wind direction etc? what is the terrain like? what is at risk: people, property or the environment? what should be done: is an evacuation necessary? what resources are required and readily available? what can be done right away?
3. Identify Products/Targets
Placards and/or labeling symbols will provide information as to the type of hazard involved in an accidental spill or exposure. The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or the identity of the products involved can be found by examining the shipping documents if the exposure has occurred from materials being transported legally. Other markings such as rail car number or vehicle license plate number may be used to trace the shipment and determine the contents. An awareness of potential terrorist targets is an essential component of a risk assessment for any first responder. Terrorist targets often include: - civilian, government or military installations; - defense contractors; - industries manufacturing environmentally sensitive products; - financial institutions that support the above; - infrastructure components (i.e., transportation,
communications, utilities, energy systems; - sports arenas, hospitals, shopping center; - venues for special events such as synagogues, mosques and
temples; Terrorist targets in recent years have included subways, commercial aircraft, government offices and embassies, naval bases, major high- rise buildings and large night clubs. As any terrorist incident is a crime, it is essential that the first responder suspecting a terrorist involvement document all observations accurately, secure the scene and preserve all evidence for later use in a criminal court.
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4. Communicate
The first responder plays a critical role in the communication link. The municipality/community must (Emergency Management Act, 2002 (R.S.O.) have an emergency plan (EP) in place to deal with all hazards including terrorist incidents. An EP is: “a document that assigns responsibility to organizations and individuals for carrying out specific actions at projected times and places in an emergency that exceeds the capability or routine responsibility of any one agency. It includes the response functions of: direction and control; communications; alert, notification and warning; emergency public information; evacuation”. It also: • Determines applicability, sets forth lines of authority and
organizational relationships, and shows how all actions will be coordinated.
• Describes how people and property will be protected in emergencies.
• Identifies personnel, equipment, facilities, supplies and other resources available, within the jurisdiction or by agreement with other jurisdictions, for use during response and recovery operations.
• Identifies steps to address mitigation concerns during response and recovery activities.
Good communication upon arrival at the scene of a hazardous materials incident is key to ensuring that the incident is handled appropriately and impacts are mitigated. Such communication includes the following: •
•
•
•
•
•
notify local Fire Department, Police Department and Emergency Medical Services, (as necessary) providing as much information as can be gathered. communicate hazard information accurately. State chemical name, number of words in the name, and spell letter by letter using the phonetic alphabet. example: first word A-N-H-Y-D-R-O-U-S, alpha, November, hotel, Yankee, delta, Romeo, Oscar, uniform, sierra second word A-M-M-O-N-I-A alpha, mike, mike, Oscar, November, India, alpha request the dispatcher to spell back the chemical name to ensure transmission accuracy. provide product identification numbers (PIN) (if available) as a
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cross reference •
•
•
•
•
• • •
• • •
describe any obvious symptoms of victims such as blistering, vomiting, burning eyes, breathing difficulties (SLUDGING). describe unusual environmental factors such as odours, abandoned spray devices, numerous dead animals, fish or birds describe site conditions as thoroughly as possible, including: weather conditions and wind direction status of hazardous materials (stable, leaking, burning, etc.) description of the hazardous material (colour, solid, liquid,
vapour) description of the area impacted (e.g. residential,
commercial, industrial, environmentally sensitive) indicate if victims are observed and their obvious symptoms advise dispatch or other communication contact, which
agencies or resources may be needed (e.g. HazMat team, MOE, Public Health, police)
4.1 Initiate Protective Actions
Provided individual safety is not jeopardized, first responders may need to advise vulnerable populations near the incident to take appropriate protective actions. This could include:
door-to-door notification of homes and businesses in close proximity to the incident
use of warning sirens and mobile public address (PA) systems
evacuation of residents in-place sheltering use of electronic media (radio, television, tele-dialer, Reverse 9-1-1)) isolation of scene deny entry use of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
4.2 Brief Incident Commander
A senior emergency response official responding to the emergency must establish an Incident Command Post and establish the Incident Management System (IMS used by public safety agencies in the jurisdiction. That person is then in charge of the incident scene, becomes the Incident Commander (IC) and must be briefed by the first responder. The IC will assess the need for further Regional, Provincial or Federal assistance.
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Summary First responders who are trained at the awareness level are expected to recognize when hazardous materials or dangerous goods are present at an emergency scene. It is their responsibility to protect themselves, attempt to identify the product(s) involved, call for personnel who are trained to handle the incident and to ensure that the area is secure.
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Learning Check - Module 1
True or False : Circle T or F 1. T F Weather conditions at the scene of a hazardous
material incident are insignificant.
2. T F When notifying local emergency agencies about a terrorism/hazardous materials incident, it does not matter whether the area impacted is residential, commercial or industrial.
3. T F The proper spelling of a chemical name is important.
4.
T F First responders at the awareness level are expected to recognize the presence of hazardous chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear materials, protect themselves and secure the area.
5. T F In most situations, the terms hazardous materials and dangerous goods can be used interchangeably.
6. T F The intent to intimidate or coerce people through random acts of violence is a characteristic of terrorist activities.
Multiple Choice: Circle your answer. 7. The first consideration of first responders trained to the
awareness level at an incident that involves hazardous materials or dangerous goods should be to:
a. notify police, ambulance and fire.
b. secure the scene. c. establish an incident management system. d. ensure personal safety.
8. Which of the following is not a good place from which to
approach an incident:
a. upwind b. uphill c. upclose
d. upstream
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9. The first responder is responsible for briefing the incident
commander on:
a. everything that is known about the incident. b. a summary of actions that have been taken. c. a. and b. above d. none of the above
10. Of the following targets, which would probably be the least
appealing to a terrorist group plotting an attack?
a. an urban complex of Federal facilities. b. a major urban seaport services by two interstate highways. c. An urban area in need of rehabilitation. d. An urban family planning clinic.
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Learning Outcomes After completing this Module, you will be able to: • explain how hazardous materials incidents differ from other
emergencies. • describe what first responders trained to the awareness level are to
do in order to maintain personal safety. • identify risks of exposure to hazardous substances and the
protective measures that can be taken to minimize harm. • describe potential threats of these incidents to health, property
and the environment. • describe the responsibilities of first responders trained to the
awareness level, with regard to emergency medical care, and possible contamination.
• relate the protective measures of time, distance and shielding to various incidents.
Hazardous materials incidents differ from other emergencies in many ways. First responders must be aware of the complexities of the chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear hazardous materials incidents and the impact and potential harm they cause. Further, an awareness of what materials are toxic, and how they are dispersed will assist first responders in minimizing risks. First responders must be aware that self-protection is the first priority and it must be maintained before they can protect fellow responders and the public. 1. Complexity (Types of Hazards)
Hazardous materials incidents can be much more complex than other types of emergencies. Responses to the incidents are more complex because they: • •
•
require extensive amounts of planning, education and training require deliberate and cautious assessment prior to taking action require specialized protective equipment
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1.1 Impact
Hazardous materials incidents can have a tremendous impact on victims, responders, the community and the surrounding environment. Most will not go away without mitigation and rescue may be difficult, if not impossible.
The risks that hazardous materials incidents present to responders can include: • • • • •
• • • • • • •
chemical biological radiological nuclear plant explosive (fire and explosion)
1.2 Potential Harm
There are numerous ways hazardous materials incidents can be harmful to responders, including:
thermal radiological asphyxiation chemical etiological/biological mechanical psychological
The acronym TRACEM is an easy way to remember them. Each has different harmful effects. Thermal. Thermal harm is the result of exposure to the extremes of heat or cold. Heat travels by one of four methods: conduction, convection, radiation, and direct flame contact.
Radiological. Radiation (in this context) refers to nuclear radiation, not a method of heat transfer. There are three types of nuclear radiation: Alpha, is the least penetrating and is not considered dangerous unless alpha contaminated particles enter the body. Beta, is more penetrating and can cause skin damage and
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harm internal organs if ingested. The use of PPE including SCBA will greatly enhance emergency responder’s safety when dealing with alpha or beta radiation. Gamma has great penetrating power. Gamma rays are high-energy ionizing radiation that cause skin burns, severely injures internal organs and has long-term effects. Medical radioactive isotopes may be generally dispersed through the explosion of a “dirty bomb” causing extensive long-term health damage including radiation sickness. Asphyxiation. Asphyxiants interfere with oxygen flow either by diluting the concentration of oxygen concentration or interrupting the flow in the blood or to the tissues. The asphyxiants prevent proper oxygen distribution and the cells of the body ultimately die. Examples of asphyxiants are hydrogen cyanide (AC), cyanogens chloride (CR) phosgene, carbon monoxide (CO), anilene and hydrogen sulfide.
Chemical. Chemicals can cause harm either through toxicity or corrosion. Symptoms are obvious in minutes to a few hours after exposure. Toxic agents cause damage depending on the length of time of the exposure and the concentration of the chemical. Nerve agents are toxic chemical materials. They can be in either liquid or gas form and are inhaled causing immediate respiratory distress. They will result in mass fatalities showing no other external signs of trauma. Corrosive materials cause a blister or burn after direct contact. They can be liquid or solid and cause visible or irreversible alterations in skin tissue at the site of contact. Sulfuric acid is an example of a corrosive material.
Etiological/biological. This type of harm involves exposure to a living microorganism, virus or it’s toxin which may cause disease and death in humans. They are usually odourless and colourless. The onset of symptoms could take days or weeks. In some instances symptom onset can be very rapid (as short as 4 to 6 hours). Large areas/populations are usually affected due to the movement or travel of infected persons prior to the outbreak of symptoms. The most frequent route of exposure is through inhalation or ingestion, however absorption through the skin and injection
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are possible. Four common types of biological agents are: bacteria, viruses, rickettsia and toxins.
Examples:
• cholera & anthrax are bacteria. • Q fever is a type of rickettsia. • ebola is a virus. • botulism • and staphylococcal enterotoxin B are toxins.
Indicators of an etiological/ biological event may include: unusual numbers of sick or dying animals or people; dissemination of unscheduled or unusual sprays, outdoors and/or at night; abandoned spray devices with no distinct odour.
Mechanical The most common type of harm comes from contact with mechanical or physical hazards. This could be from an explosive device in the form of shrapnel or nails. Other examples of mechanical harm include routine slip, trip and fall hazards at an emergency scene.
Clandestine drug/chemical labs can cause physical and chemical harm to responders due to intentionally placed hazards that include disguised holes cut in floors, hidden explosive devices, discarded needles, toxic or flammable vapours, electrical or chemical hazards and other lethal dangers. The sole purpose of these hazards is to injure or kill persons entering the lab. Psychological The fear of exposure or lon-term effects can create a paranoia that disrupts normal activities resulting in major economic, financial, social and health care issues.
1.3 Exposure
Short or long term exposure to hazardous materials incidents can have acute or chronic health effects. However, the threat of exposure during an accidental release can differ from that of an intentional release (terrorism). An intentional release of nuclear, biological or chemical materials can tremendously
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increase the potential for responder exposure.
Implementing the Protective Measures of Time Distance and Shielding is a major self-protective strategy.
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Incident Characteristics TRACEM TDS Measures
Biological Community public health emergencies such as a cholera or anthrax bacterial outbreak or ebola viral contamination. Focused response is the discovery of a biological agent or its release.
Etiological Time: Minimum contact time. Some agents can be fatal very quickly and in small amounts. Distance: Maximum when unprotected, including distance from those contaminated or exposed casualties. Shielding: Maximum appropriate to the agent, including masks and splash protection.
Nuclear Potential for radiological dispersal device.
Primarily radiological. May include thermal, chemical or mechanical.
Time: Minimum to reduce exposure. Distance: Maximum from hazard. Shielding: PPE, including hoods, and lead walls.
Incendiary Multiple fires with unusual volume for structure. Evidence of accelerants or arson.
Thermal but could include asphyxiative, chemical and mechanical.
Time: minimum exposure. Distance: Maximum without PPE. Shielding: Appropriate PPE.
Chemical May include hazardous materials absorbed, inhaled, ingested or injected. Could include ammonia, chlorine, gasoline.
Primarily chemical but may include thermal, asphyxiative and mechanical.
Time: Minimum exposure time and contact with product. Distance: Maximum from actual chemical remaining; uphill and upwind; away form contaminated areas and casualties unless wearing PPE. Shielding: Maximum appropriate to the agent.
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Explosive Multiple hazards are possible with very unique situations.
Primarily mechanical, but may include thermal, chemical, biological or radiological.
Time: Shortest interval, explosions take place in hundredths of a second. Distance: Maximum. Consult 2000 Emergency Response Guidebook (2000 ERG) Shielding: Maximum. Avoid line of sight and be aware of secondary devices and structural collapse.
2. Threats Posed by Hazardous Materials
Hazardous materials can present threats to health, property and the environment in a variety of ways. This is because hazardous materials can come in the form of solids, liquids or gases.
First responders must be aware that the routes of entry for human exposure include:
• • • •
• • • • • •
inhalation (breathing) absorption (skin contact) ingestion (swallowing) injection (puncturing)
2.1 Toxicity of Hazardous Materials
Hazardous materials are considered to be toxic (poisonous) to people and other living organisms. The degree and type of toxicity varies for individual substances. Categories of toxicity symptoms include:
asphyxiation irritation allergic sensitization systemic poisoning mutagenesis (genetic or reproductive changes) carcinogenesis (resulting in malignancy)
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2.2 Dispersion Pathways
The dispersion pathways of these three states of hazardous materials include: •
•
• •
• • • • • •
atmosphere (vapour density of the material determines dispersion characteristics, heavier than air versus lighter than air) surface water (specific gravity of the material determines dispersion characteristics, heavy liquids versus lighter liquids in comparison to water) soil ground water
The type of area (terrain, climatic conditions) where a substance is released may affect the dispersion of that material causing different reactions. For example, once the hazardous material is released, the toxicity of the substance may change through dilution or degradation. Other materials remain toxic because they resist degradation. In such cases, they will require specialized clean up procedures and equipment. Further, they will find pathways to harm humans (i.e. water, food chain, etc) and the environment. Continued exposure may induce further negative toxicological effects on humans and the environment. Contact with the atmosphere or other materials may produce violent and/or toxic results.
2.3 Potential Ignition Sources
First responders must be aware of the additional risk of ignition at a hazardous materials incident. They must know that where a flammable/explosive atmosphere exists, some potential ignition sources that can cause fire and/or explosions include:
emergency response vehicles and equipment electrical sources open flame, cigarettes, welding/cutting lightning, static charge (low humidity conditions) radios, flashlights, cell phones heat producing chemical reactions
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• •
• • • • • •
mechanical energy (sparks) flares
2.4 Explosive Incidents.
Transport Canada (CANUTEC) defines explosives as products or substances that: “are capable by self-sustaining chemical reaction, of producing gas at such temperature, pressure and speed as to damage the surroundings, or are manufactured for the purpose of producing a explosive or pyrotechnic effect.” It is estimated that 70% of all terrorist attacks worldwide involve explosives. Other potential hazards at an incident can include:
traffic (emergency and civilian vehicles) electrical (down power lines or energized equipment) slip, trip, fall hazards, collapse hazards booby traps weather people (gawkers)
3. Think “Safety First”
First responders must always think “safety first” and protect themselves, so they can protect fellow responders and the public.
3.1 Protective Clothing
In order to mitigate possible exposure to hazardous materials, responders who are trained to respond to these incidents must wear appropriate protection. The use of proper respiratory protective equipment and clothing is paramount. Street clothes and work uniforms will not provide protection from the hazards of harmful substances. Structural protective firefighter clothing does not provide chemical protection, and can, in fact absorb dangerous vapours. Specialized chemical protective clothing is needed to protect an appropriately trained responder who is working in close proximity to a hazardous material spill or release. Responders exposed to hazardous materials must wear the
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appropriate respiratory protection, and be properly fitted and trained in the use of the respiratory equipment.
Protective clothing is divided into four categories, which are used for specific circumstances. These are: 1. Level A – fully encapsulating vapour protective chemical
suits with SCBA 2. Level B – partially encapsulating suits with SCBA 3. Level C – partially encapsulating suits with an air-
purifying respirator 4. Level D – structural protective firefighter clothing
3.2 Emergency Medical Care
During a hazardous materials incident, awareness level first responders may encounter contaminated or potentially contaminated non-ambulatory victims. The responder must remember to think “safety first” and not rush to aid the victim until steps are taken to render such action safe. As an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) provider, the first responder may need to wait in a safe area, identified as the “Cold Zone", to receive decontaminated patients. Victims should be screened as soon as possible to determine vital signs, extent of injuries, and exposure details.
Important factors to remember when first responders approach a potential hazardous materials incident are: •
•
• •
•
resources such as hospitals, police, fire and emergency medical services must be contacted. the hasty rescue of potentially contaminated persons should not be attempted. the hazardous material should be known prior to rescue. responding personnel should have specific training in personal protective equipment (PPE), decontamination and medical treatment specific to hazardous materials exposure. the appropriate personal protective equipment, including respiratory protection must be available.
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3.3 Decontamination/Isolation
First responders may encounter contaminated victims at hazardous materials incidents, and could potentially become contaminated themselves. In addition, equipment used in the response could also come in contact with contaminants. Individuals and equipment contaminated during an incident must be isolated from other people and property to minimize further contamination spread, and then be properly decontaminated. Contaminated victims with no life threatening injuries should be decontaminated by properly trained personnel. Appropriate preventative action must be taken to minimize contamination of transport vehicles and hospital emergency receiving areas. Awareness level first responders are advised not to perform decontamination of personnel or equipment. However, a description of decontamination activities is provided to allow first responders to become familiar with expected procedures. Decontamination planning should include: 1. site layout 2. decontamination methods to be used 3. number of personnel needed 4. level of PPE and equipment to be processed 5. disposal methods 6. run-off control 7. emergency medical requirements 8. methods for collecting and disposing of contaminated
clothing and equipment
The steps you might go through for contamination reduction/management are: • • • • •
washing/rinsing to remove gross contamination removal of outer clothing additional wash/rinse medical surveillance/monitoring transport to medical facility
Emergency response personnel who have been contaminated but are not in need of immediate medical attention must
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report to the established decontamination area. Contaminated equipment, clothing, decontamination solutions including rinse water and other materials must always be left in the decontamination area until the items can be properly decontaminated or disposed of. In such cases, the first responder should notify designated decontamination personnel of the particular equipment that potentially has been contaminated. Decontamination personnel will: •
•
•
follow appropriate decontamination protocol of salvageable equipment provide for the proper containment and/or isolation of non-salvageable equipment subject to disposal call for specialized equipment and personnel
Summary First responders trained to the awareness level must ensure that personal safety is maintained. They must be aware of the complexity, impact, and potential harm that the various types of hazardous materials present, and how to avoid exposure. The wisest course of action is to delay entry and await the arrival of appropriately trained and equipped personnel. First responders must have an awareness of the threats to health, property and the environment presented by hazardous materials. Specific steps to be taken include isolation of the scene, denial of entry, notification of appropriate personnel and recognition of key indicators of a potential terrorist incident.
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Learning Check- Module 2
True or False. Circle T or F 1. T F One reason why hazardous materials incidents
responses are more complex than other emergencies is because they require specialized protective equipment for the first responder.
2. T F Given enough time, the impacts of most hazardous materials will go away without mitigation.
3. T F Alpha radiation is the most penetrating kind.
4. T F Chemical exposures can present a risk to first responders at hazardous materials incidents.
5. T F A safe area, where first responders can receive decontaminated patients is called a “Cold Zone”.
Multiple Choice. Circle your answer. 6. Additional hazards that can compound a hazardous materials incident
include:
a. open flames b. traffic c. booby traps d. all of the above
7. Which is not a usual route of entry for human exposure to a
hazardous material: a. absorption b. inhalation c. infusion d. ingestion
8. Protective clothing that is designated as Level A. is:
a. structurally protective firefighter clothing b. fully encapsulating vapour protective chemical suits with SCBA c. partially encapsulating suits with SCBA d. turn out gear
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9. A first responder trained to the awareness level, who becomes aware
that equipment has potentially become contaminated should: a. immediately perform decontamination procedures b. wash the equipment to remove gross contamination c. notify designated decontamination personnel d. ensure the proper containment or disposal of the equipment
10. The appropriate response for a first responder trained to the awareness level, at a potential terrorist incident is:
a. isolate the scene b. deny entry c. notify appropriate personnel d. all of the above
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Learning Outcomes After completing this Module, you will be able to: • describe how to recognize the presence of hazardous materials or
dangerous goods • identify hazardous materials by using the Transport Canada,
placarding and labeling system • use the 2000 Emergency Response Guidebook (2000 ERG) to
describe what first responders trained to the awareness level should communicate to appropriate personnel at hazardous materials incidents
• describe the use and limitations of placarding multiple hazards First responders who encounter potential hazardous materials incidents should be aware of resources they can call on to assist them in the recognition and identification of the hazardous materials. Further, first responders trained to the awareness level should recognize the many tools, clues and identifiers that will assist them in determining the presence of hazardous materials. They must be aware of the classifications of hazardous materials, and that the complexity of incidents can be increased by multiple hazards. 1. Resources
1.1 2000 Emergency Response Guidebook
The 2000 Emergency Response Guidebook (2000 ERG) is intended to be used in conjunction with placards and labels found on transport vehicles and containers (which are discussed in this module). This guidebook provides valuable initial information concerning hazardous materials and assists awareness level first responders in the recognition of hazardous materials. Three methods for determining the correct guide page for a hazardous material are; - the numerical index for ID number (yellow pages) - alphabetical listing of chemical names (blue pages)
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- Table of placards (white pages)
The guidebook is: •
•
•
•
•
•
developed by U.S. Department of Transportation in conjunction with Transport Canada and SETIQ (Mexico) published every three years, in English, French and Spanish organized and colour coded as follows:
Yellow - Identification (ID) numbers (formerly identified
as UN/NA numbers) - Blue - Name of material (alphabetically)
- Orange - Emergency guide pages - Green - Table of initial isolation, evacuation distances
and table of water reactive products - White - Usage directions, placards, guidance and
glossary
The emergency response guide provides general information for first responders and provides response information for the following:
potential hazards - fire or explosion - health public safety - protective clothing - evacuation emergency response - fires - spill or leaks
- first aid
The primary hazard is noted at the top of every guide page in the orange section of the 2000 ERG. On each page both the potential for Fire or Explosion and the Health Hazard is listed and described. The 2000 ERG also provides a recommended table of Initial Isolation and Protective Action distances for small (under 200 L) and large (over 200 L) spills for certain chemicals (highlighted in the ID Number and alphabetical sections). The Table of Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances in the green section, describes the distances for a given
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dangerous goods, spill size and whether day or night. It gives the downwind distance for which protective actions should be considered. The Protective Action Zone (the area in which people are at risk of harmful exposure) is a square, whose length and width is the same as the downwind distance shown in the table. The Isolation Distance table in the green section refers to non-fire incidents which have an inhalation danger and an elapsed time within 30 minutes.
1.2 CANUTEC
CANUTEC is the Canadian Transport Emergency Centre. This 24 hour emergency information service located in Ottawa, Ontario, is operated by Transport Canada to assist emergency response personnel in handling dangerous goods emergencies. This service utilizes a 10 digit collect-call number, allowing responders to access information about specific chemicals and linking them to shippers and manufacturers. When calling CANUTEC, information required on page 7 of the 2000 ERG, should be readily available. This will allow CANUTEC to provide the most accurate information possible in a timely manner.
CANUTEC 24 hour hot line (613) 996-6666.
*666 (cell)
In non-emergency situations, information can be obtained by calling 613-992-4624.
Note:
1.2.1 CANUTEC will notify the appropriate agency in the case of rail, air or marine incidents.
1.2.2 The nearest police department must be notified in the case
of lost, stolen or misplaced explosives, radioactive materials or infectious substances.
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1.2.3 CANUTEC must be notified in the case of:
a. lost, stolen or misplaced infectious substances b. an incident involving infectious substances c. an incident where the shipping documents display CANUTEC’s telephone number as the emergency
telephone number, or d. a dangerous goods incident in which a railway vehicle is
involved (2000 ERG, p. 9). 1.3 Other Resources
Numerous other resources are available for first responders’ use. Computer programs as well as technical manuals are readily obtainable from organizations and suppliers. During emergency operations it is considered good practice to try to confirm information by using at least three different sources of data (e.g. shipping documents, chemical reference manuals, MSDS).
2. Clues for Detecting the Presence of Hazardous Materials
This section outlines some of the many clues available to first responders to aid in determining the presence of hazardous materials.
2.1. Occupancy and/or Location
Information on occupancy types and possible locations of hazardous materials are generally obtained in two ways. First, responders should have a basic understanding of their response district or community. Second, departments and agencies involved in hazardous materials response need to make pre-emergency visits or surveys of businesses that have a potential for accidental release of hazardous materials. Pre-emergency surveys should take place in an environment without stress or time constraints and during daylight hours. Pre-emergency surveys are the preferred method for obtaining information used to locate and identify hazardous materials in the community.
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) An MSDS is a form provided by manufacturers or compounders of chemicals, containing information about the
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chemical compound, physical and chemical properties, health and safety hazards, emergency response, spill or leak procedures, fire and explosion risk, reactivity data and safe waste disposal of the material. They also must provide the manufacturer’s name and telephone contact number. These must be made available to certain local governmental agencies (fire departments, local emergency planning committees). Note: Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) regulation under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) made the use of MSDS a requirement of the Act.
2.2 Senses
Your own senses - smell, sound, touch or sight - can also help you detect the presence of hazardous materials. Odours may indicate the presence of a hazardous material. Remember, if you can smell a hazardous material, it is time to get out. Odours such as rotten fruit, eggs or freshly cut grass are characteristic of certain hazardous materials. If you are close enough to smell the product you are usually already contaminated. There is some limitation in the effectiveness of this method due to the fact that many hazardous agents are odourless. Many times, clandestine drug labs produce distinct odours dependent upon the materials and methods involved in manufacturing the illegal drugs. For purposes of masking odours, operators of these labs frequently locate the facility in areas such as farms that already provide natural odours. Some chemicals can rapidly desensitize your sense of smell. You may not be able to smell the chemical on your second or third sniff, but it is still there. The unusual colour of smoke and flame can also help identify the possible presence of a hazardous material. Further irritation to the eyes or skin may also be a signal that you are being exposed and that you should leave the danger area immediately.
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2.3 Transport Container Shapes
One of the most important clues used to detect hazardous materials is the shape of transport containers (refer to 2000 ERG for further details). The general classifications of containers for hazardous materials are: • • •
•
•
•
individual containers (non-bulk) bulk transport containers bulk storage containers
Some hazardous materials require specialized containment that is specific in shape, which can give a clue to the identity of the contents. Regarding highway transportation, the size and shape of tank trucks can offer clues about the type of material being transported. These differences in shape are easy to spot. The shape of the end of the tank offers the best clue. Generally, non-pressurized tank trucks have flat or nearly flat ends, while pressurized tank trucks have rounded ends. Some samples of characteristic shapes are:
Cylindrical or elliptical containers with flat or nearly flat ends contain liquids at atmospheric pressure (gasoline) Cylindrical or elliptical containers with rounded ends contain gases under very high pressure (liquefied petroleum gas) Rail tank cars with dome fittings totally enclosed with a large cap, contain liquid under very high pressure (liquefied petroleum gas)
2.4 Markings and Colours
There are unique markings and colours used to indicate the presence of hazardous materials. Some hazardous materials must be identified by proper shipping name on the side of the container, as required by law. Company names, logos, and addresses of shippers and consignees may provide clues to the presence and identification of hazardous materials.
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2.4.1 Identification Numbers
Identification numbers are designed to identify hazardous materials in transportation. These numbers must be displayed on cargo tanks, portable tanks, rail tank cars, and certain small packages carrying hazardous materials. They may be displayed on other conveyances as well. Rail tank cars have a unique marking system consisting of a combination of letters and numbers. The railroads call these letters and numbers reporting marks. The letters identify the owner of the car and the numbers identify the individual car. A single rail car number can identify the entire train and contents through the rail company. Methods used to display identification numbers on packages and containers include rectangular orange panels, diamond shaped placards and labels that utilize a specific colour scheme.
a. Orange panel adjacent to the placards. The panel is 12 cm x 30 cm (4.72” x 11.8”) with 10 cm (4”) numerals.
1075
b. Placard/label
1017 1203
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c. NFPA Standard 704 M
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has developed a marking system for identifying hazardous materials at terminals and industrial sites. This method is not used in transportation, although these markings may be found on small packages or containers.
NFPA Standard 704 describes a system for the Identification of Hazards for Emergency Response that can indicate up to four hazards on one placard. A diamond shaped placard can have a blue health hazard rating at the left point, a red flammability rating at the top point, a yellow instability rating at the right point and a water reactivity or oxidizing symbol at the bottom point, on a white placard background.
2.5 Placards and Labels
Placards are diamond shaped, a minimum of 25 cm x 25 cm in size (10-3/4” x 10-3/4”), and are required to be displayed on all four sides of a transport vehicle that is carrying hazardous materials, dependent upon the type and quantity of the material. The placard provides recognition information in a number of ways:
• • • •
the coloured background the symbol at the top the TDG primary hazard class number at the bottom the hazard class wording or the product identification number in the centre
Labels are similar to placards in appearance and must be securely affixed to packages containing hazardous materials, depending upon type and quantity. The label should be located near the proper shipping name and must not be obscured by other markings. Colours, symbols and numbers on both placards and labels provide the responder with a means of identifying the materials and their hazards.
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2.5.1 Placard Colours
The following colours are used to indicate the classification of the hazards.
Placard Colour Classification
Orange explosive Red flammable or combustible Green non-flammable gas Yellow oxidizing material White toxic/poison material white with vertical stripes flammable solid yellow over white radioactive material Blue water reactive substances
Note: Combustible placards which display the identification number may have a white area under the identification number displayed to differentiate them from flammable liquids.
The following are hazard classes with examples. Class 1 - Explosives (dynamite, black powder) Class 2 - Gases (propane, natural gas) Class 3 - Flammable liquids (gasoline, fuel oil) Class 4 - Flammable solids (phosphorus) Class 5 - Oxidizing substances and organic peroxides
(hydrogen peroxide, ammonium nitrate) Class 6 - Toxic and infectious substances (anthrax,
medical waste) Class 7 - Radioactive materials (plutonium, cobalt) Class 8 - Corrosives (sulfuric acid, caustic soda) Class 9 - Miscellaneous products, substances,
organisms Danger - (Mixed Load)
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2.5.2 Symbols (as located in 2000 ERG):
Note: “Empty” and “residue” placards are no longer authorized for use. Containers must remain placarded until cleaned.
2.6 Shipping Documents
The shipping documents provide vital information when responding to a dangerous goods incident. Shipping documents contain information needed to identify the materials involved. The shipping documents must contain the proper shipping name, hazard class or division, ID (formerly UN) numbers and packing group. In addition, information must be available that describes the hazards and steps which can be used in the mitigation of an
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incident. Shipping papers are required for most dangerous goods in transportation. First responders may find these documents in the following locations: • • • •
• • • •
• • • •
the cab of the motor vehicle the possession of the train crew the holder of a bridge or captain of a vessel the possession of aircraft pilots
When inspecting shipping documents, first responders note the:
product shipping name hazard classification ID number (formerly UN/NA number) quantity
Further, first responders should be aware of the limitations of shipping documents. These documents could be:
incomplete inaccurate unavailable destroyed by the incident which led to the emergency
Note: The Standard Transportation Commodities Code (STCC) is a unique seven digit number assigned to most materials transported by rail and found on shipping papers. If a material is hazardous, the STCC number will begin with 49. The STCC is not a regulatory requirement under the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act. 2.6.1 Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
Material Safety Data Sheets are not specifically shipping documents, and are found in any location in which a hazardous material is used, however they are often found attached to other shipping papers. Information that may be found on the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) includes: • •
product identification physical properties
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• • • • • • • •
fire and explosion hazard data product composition and exposure limits potential health effects emergency first aid procedures special protection information spill or leak procedures handling and storage precautions hazard warning
3. Limitations of the Hazard Class System
3.1 Multiple Hazards
Many hazardous materials have multiple hazards and are required to be placarded with a primary placard and subsidiary placard. The subsidiary placard will not display a hazard class number. When a material has more than one hazard, the primary placard to be used is determined by what Transport Canada mandates as the most dangerous property. The most dangerous property is determined using the following ranking system:
Hazardous Material
Primary Hazard Classification
Radioactive Class 7 Poison gas Class 2 Division 3 Flammable gas Class 2 Division 1 Nonflammable gas Class 2 Division 2 Poison liquids Class 6 Division 1 (inhalation only) Pyrophoric material Class 4 Division 2 Self reactive material Class 4 Division 1 Flammable liquid Class 3 Corrosive Class 8 Flammable solid Class 4 Division 1 Spontaneously combustible material Class 4 Division 2 Dangerous when wet material Class 4 Division 3 Oxidizers Class 5 Division 1 Poison liquids/solids Class 6 Division 1 (non-inhalation) Combustible liquids Class 3 Miscellaneous hazardous materials Class 9
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3.1.1 Example of a material with multiple hazards:
Nitric Acid, Red Fuming - UN 2032: This material is an oxidizer, corrosive, and a poison. It is placarded as a corrosive and a poison. Note: It is common for a material to have more than one Transport Canada shipping label on the container. NFPA Standard 704 describes a system for the Identification of Hazards for Emergency Response that can indicate up to four hazards on one placard. A diamond shaped placard can have a blue health hazard rating at the left point, a red flammability rating at the top point, a yellow instability rating at the right point and a water reactivity or oxidizing symbol at the bottom point, on a white placard background.
3.2 Unstable Hazards
Organic Peroxides are good examples of unstable materials that have their hazards greatly understated. Organic peroxides are grouped into Class 5 with oxidizers. These chemicals do release oxygen to support combustion, but the primary hazard is explosion. These materials are both fuel and oxidizer all in one, creating the threat of an explosion. Organic peroxides are unstable chemicals that should be treated like explosives in a fire or spill situation.
3.3 Degree of Hazard
The degree to which a material is hazardous can vary greatly. The hazard class system does not provide a means to accurately gauge the degree of hazard. Note: Placarding is always required for the following types of hazardous materials regardless of the quantity of material: • • • • •
Explosives division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 Poison gas Water reactive materials Poison liquid with inhalation hazard Radioactive materials with yellow Class 3 labels
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4. Limitations of the Placarding System
4.1 Dangerous Placards
A freight container, unit load device, transport vehicle or rail car which contains non-bulk packaging with two or more categories of certain hazardous materials. These require different placards that should be labelled as “DANGEROUS” instead of the separate placarding specified for each of the materials. Therefore there is no way for the responder to know what hazards may be associated with the materials being transported.
4.2 Weight Exception
A transport vehicle which contains less than 500 kg (1100 pounds) aggregate gross weight of hazardous materials is not required to display placards. Excepted from this rule are the materials which must always be placarded regardless of amounts. • • • • •
Explosives division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 Poison gas Water reactive materials Poison liquids with inhalation hazard Radioactive materials with yellow Class 3 labels
To first responders, there is little difference between 500 kg (1,100 pounds) of a hazardous substance and 495 kg (1089 pounds), with respect to threats to personnel and the environment. Therefore, first responders must always be alert and aware of the possibilities that hazardous materials could be present.
4.3 Unclassified Materials and Exemptions
Some materials do not require placarding due to regulations. However, some hazards may actually exist, such as the extreme cold associated with cryogenic materials. Additionally, many times substances once thought to be safe are later determined to be hazardous.
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4.4 Multiple Hazards
Numerous materials exhibit more than one hazard, however only the primary hazard is used to classify the substance for placarding.
4.5 Degree of Hazard
Unlike the NFPA 704M labeling system, this system does not provide the responder with an indication of the relative level of the hazard.
4.6 Human Error
The shipper may at times neglect to change placards for each shipment or may incorrectly placard a load.
4.7 Incorrectly Labelled or Missing Placards
Enforcement of the regulations surrounding the transport of hazardous materials is a continual problem. It is virtually impossible for enforcement agencies to ensure compliance 100% of the time. Emergency response personnel must be cautious that improperly marked, unmarked, and illegal shipments occur daily. Federal laws now govern inter-provincial transports. Additionally, a carrier may intentionally obscure the presence of a hazardous material either to avoid regulation/enforcement for economic purposes, or to conceal illegal operations.
4.8 Military Marking System
The United States military has developed a hazard marking system that uses 4 hazard classes. 1) mass detonation hazard 2) explosive with fragmentation hazard 3) mass fire hazard 4) moderate fire hazard.
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In addition they have 4 special warnings. 1) chemical- highly toxic and harassing agents 2) apply no water 3) wear protective breathing apparatus 4) special hazard communications marking
The military uses both special hazard symbols and detonation hazard symbols.
4.9 Pipeline Markings
A pipeline carrying a hazardous material will be marked with a metal sign placed adjacent and above the pipeline. This sign will contain information about the location and ownership of the line.
5. Recognizing Terrorist Activities
When responding to hazardous materials incidents you must be aware of the possible causes of the incident. Many times information from dispatchers, facility personnel and nearby residents can help you identify the cause of the incident. While trying to determine if an incident is terrorist related, you must remember that terrorism can take many forms. Intentional releases of hazardous materials can be caused by international organizations, domestic groups, local individuals or just disgruntled employees. An employee upset with management can cause as much harm as a sophisticated international organization. However, there are some clues which can be used to help confirm a terrorist related incident.
• • • • • • • • • •
• •
high profile target easy public access location allows for low detection risk little or no warning reason for release unknown accidental release unlikely target related to cause of known terrorist groups suspicious individuals nearby or quickly leaving the area suspicious vehicles nearby or quickly leaving the area released material or method of release not consistent with location secondary explosive/release devices discovered known recent threats to target
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Identifying these potential targets is part of Risk Assessment.
Although it is easy to become focused on the immediate needs of a response to a hazardous material incident, the first responder must avoid tunnel vision and be aware of any clues that may indicate possible terrorist activities. We must be aware of our surroundings and be able to identify new types of hazards related to intentional releases.
Summary First responders trained to the awareness level should be able to recognize the presence of hazardous materials using the many resources, labels and classifications available. They must proceed with caution however, due to the potential complexity of these incidents, and because of the limitations of hazard class and placarding systems and the unpredictable nature of criminal incidents that involve hazardous materials.
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Learning Check Module 3
True or False. Circle T or F 1. T F Containers with rounded ends signify that it contains a
liquid at atmospheric pressure.
2. T F Orange placard colour indicates explosives.
3. T F When a material has more than one hazard, the primary placard to be used is determined by the most dangerous property.
4. T F The threat of contamination from transport vehicles
which contain less that 500 kg (1100 pounds) aggregate weight of hazardous materials is minimal.
5. T F Subsidiary placards do not have to display a hazard class number.
Multiple Choice. Circle your answer. 6. Which of the following is not correct -
1. Radioactive – Class 7 2. Poison gas – Class 6 3. Flammable liquid – Class 3 4. Corrosive – Class 8
7. MSDS stands for:
a. Material Safety Data Sheets b. Material Standard Data Sheets c. Material Safety Data System d. Material Standard Data System
8. In Canada, emergency response personnel can receive 24 hour
assistance regarding the specific handling of dangerous goods from: a. CANUTEC b. TAFRO c. 2000 ERG d. your local fire department
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9. First responders can use their sense of smell to detect the presence of hazardous materials. However, the use of sense of smell has limitations because: a. it can be masked by additional odours b. it can rapidly be desensitized c. many hazardous material are odourless d. all of the above
10. During emergency operations, it is a good practice to confirm information about hazardous materials by consulting ___________ sources of data to confirm accuracy. a. one source b. two different sources c. three different sources d. four different sources
11. Fill in the blanks on the following chart using the 2000 Emergency
Response Guidebook (2000 ERG).
Substance
ID#
Guide
Emergency Response Spill or Leak Information
Chlorine Propane 1203
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Learning Outcomes After completing this Module, you will be able to: • identify the key factors to be considered by first responders trained
to the awareness level when responding to a hazardous materials incident
• describe why an Incident Management System is necessary at hazardous materials or potential terrorist incidents
• describe the basic concepts of incident management as it applies to hazardous materials incidents
• describe protective actions available to first responders at hazardous materials incidents
When responding to hazardous materials incidents first responders must begin managing the incident the moment they are dispatched. This type of incident is seldom static and can change dramatically without notice. It is imperative that responders quickly plan their routes of response and initial actions to prevent accidental exposures and injuries, remembering that safety of personnel is the primary concern. If you are not dispatched but find yourself first on the scene, you must know how to establish scene management and initiate an appropriate response. In either case, first responders at hazardous materials incidents must be prepared to follow the appropriate command sequence as set out by the Incident Management System (IMS). Further, they must be aware of the possible existence of clandestine drug manufacturing laboratories as well as an intentional release of hazardous materials (terrorist activities) and know how to recognize related dangers. 1. Response
1.1 Approach
Due to the potential quick migration of hazardous materials and the dangers associated with them, responders must approach the incident scene from a direction and in a manner that maximizes personal safety.
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By quickly observing environmental conditions first responders should approach from: • • •
upwind uphill upstream
Unlike most emergency incidents, first responders must stop (before actual scene is reached) at what you estimate to be a safe distance (see 2000 ERG for more information).
Note: This stopping point may be different for each incident. It can be determined based upon previous knowledge and experience, dispatch information, reports from persons nearby or on scene, and observation while responding. When responding to fires it is also important to maintain a safe distance from the resulting smoke.
1.2 Identify
After stopping, responders should use binoculars (if available) to survey the scene and identify the substances involved using the clues discussed in the previous Module. While surveying the scene, first responders should look for: • • • • • • • • • • • • •
vapour clouds smoke environmental damage injured persons evidence of explosive devices secondary devices booby traps surrounding populations dispersion pathways suspicious individuals and circumstances specific container shapes placards dead vegetation, birds, insects (see 2000 ERG for more information)
A closer approach to the incident scene may be made only after a positive identification of the substance(s) is made and
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the conditions surrounding the incident indicate it is safe to do so.
1.3 Communicate
It is imperative that first responders communicate information gathered during the approach and the initial scene survey to the dispatcher or other off site agency to ensure appropriate actions are taken. If the responder fails to do so prior to initiating scene security or management, the information may never be relayed.
2. Scene Management
2.1 Command Post
Upon arrival, the first responder should establish a command post (CP) at a safe distance. This location must be safe from toxic vapour clouds, run-off or potential explosions. The location of the command post must be relayed to the dispatcher and all subsequent activities should be coordinated through this command post. The First Responder must be prepared to relocate the command post to a safer location if the deteriorating situation indicates that the threat is spreading or drifting towardsthe original location.
2.2 Incident Management System
The Incident Management System (IMS) is the framework necessary to manage the resources, personnel, apparatus, and equipment, used to mitigate the incident. Strategic decisions identify the overall approach to the incident, and operational decisions spell out the best use of those resources. Experience has shown that those incidents managed in a systematic way are the most successful at achieving the intended goals. Incident management deals with the Incident Commander and staff making operational decisions, some strategic, others tactical in nature, and carefully allocating resources to implement them. As a first responder you need to understand the role of the IC as the ultimate decision maker responsible for the outcome of the incident. Where a first responder is the first to arrive at a scene, that person takes on the role of Incident Commander (IC). Once a
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senior level person arrives, the role of IC is normally transferred to the senior officer. (Refer to departmental procedures/guidelines). During routine emergencies, First Responders should follow a standard approach: performing size-up, choosing a strategy, implementing various tactics, and conducting ongoing evaluation. In all Incident Management Systems the ‘span of control” or maximum number of people under one person’s control should fall between 3 and 7.
Regardless of the specific process used, responders go through a number of similar steps in dealing with their response. Common steps include:
conducting size-up • • • • •
• • • •
• •
setting incident priorities estimating potential incident course and harm choosing strategic goals and tactical objectives. evaluating the strategies and changing priorities
2.3 Reasons for Incident Management System (IMS)
Clear and strong command is needed to maintain consistent procedures and coordinate efforts toward positive incident control. This should eliminate independent decision making (free-lancing) and tunnel vision. In addition, unity of command is maintained and effective resource utilization is ensured. Establishing command provides leadership at the incident scene and increases responder safety. (In order to meet the requirements of Guidance Note # 11 issued by the Ministry of Labour - Fire Service Section 21 Committee, every fire department should develop and implement an Incident Management System). IMS helps avoid:
chaos and confusion uncoordinated efforts conflicting orders unclear roles and responsibilities
IMS promotes:
maximum efficiency of available resources safety of personnel
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• •
• • • •
elimination of free-lancing clearly defined and attained objectives
2.4 Implementing the Command Sequence
When implementing the Incident Management System, the following steps should be followed: 1. first arriving person or supervisor establishes/assumes
command 2. establish a formal command post
size up, considering incident priorities develop goals/objectives coordinate tactical operations evaluate
3. develop the organizational structure
The following is a simplified model of an Incident Management System (IMS). Please refer to departmental procedures/guidelines for further details.
???
Operations Logistics Planning
Safety Liaison Information Staging
Finance
Incident Commander
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2.5 Functions of Command
The following are the functions of the Incident Commander:
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
• • • • •
assume command (scene manager) analyze the situation transmit initial on-scene report establish scene security perform size-up (incident assessment) develop strategy plans ensure scene coordination coordinate communication and safety alert other responders of hazards request additional resources (as needed) establish the necessary level of supervision assign tactical priorities acquire progress reports evaluate and re-evaluate efforts revise strategy plans as necessary ensure documentation of incident
2.6 Scene Security
After communicating initial information, first responders must try to establish a secure zone around the incident site. This may be difficult in the early stages of an incident, however entry to the area must be restricted to ensure the safety of first responders, subsequent injuries are not sustained and intentional tampering does not take place. Methods available to use for scene security include:
establish road blocks post security mark off incident area (rope, barrier tape, etc.) establish single entry point establish media location point
Note: Additional resources will likely be required to ensure effective scene security. The policing authority should take charge of site security upon their arrival.
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3. Protective Actions
Many times, hazardous materials incidents require first responders to initiate protective actions for the surrounding population. There are three primary protective actions available to us: • • •
• • • • •
isolation in-place sheltering evacuation
3.1 Isolation
Isolation is the process of keeping everyone away from the area if they are not directly involved in emergency operations. This task is performed first to establish control over the scene prior to other protective actions.
3.2 In-Place Sheltering
In-place sheltering (protection) requires people inside a building to remain inside until the danger as passed. This method is used when an evacuation cannot be performed, or when evacuation would cause greater risk to people than staying where they are. Procedures for in-place protection include:
close all doors and windows turn off all heating, cooling and ventilating systems seal any opening that does not have a closure stay as far away as possible from doors and windows maintain communication with responders if possible
The decision to perform population protective actions must be made considering the substances involved and their associated hazards, the actual or potential duration of the release, resources available to perform the protective action, and the risk posed to emergency responders. Each incident has different circumstances and should be handled accordingly. Again, responders must be conscious of the circumstances surrounding the incident and be wary of potential secondary explosive/release devices placed by terrorists or disgruntled employees, while performing population protective actions.
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In-place sheltering notifications can be made using one or more of the following methods: • • • •
door-to-door radio/television telephone emergency vehicle loudspeakers
• community/neighborhood services • public health notices
3.3 Evacuation
Evacuation is the process of moving all people from a threatened area to a safer place. Enough time must be available to perform evacuation procedures including warning and moving the people involved. A shelter location and transportation for those evacuated should be identified prior to implementing the evacuation. Evacuation notifications can be made using the same methods as for In-place sheltering. The decision to evacuate or shelter in place should be based on the following factors:
• Hazardous materials involved, including their characteristics and properties, amount, concentrations, physical state, and location of release.
• The population at Risk. Items to consider are the resources required to implement the recommended protective action, including notification, movement/transportation, and possible relocation shelters.
• Time factors involved in the release. Considerations must be given to the rate of escalation of the incident and the estimated time required to implement the protective action.
• The effects of both present and projected weather conditions on the movement of the hazardous material.
• The capability to communicate with the population at risk.
• The capabilities of the Hazmat Response Team and other personnel to implement, control, monitor, and terminate the protective action.
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3.4 Activating Resources Consequence management is a response to an emergency that consists of government led coordination and implementation of measures intended to mitigate the damage, loss, hardship and suffering caused by acts of terrorism. In Canada’s system of emergency management, the Municipal/Community government must act first to attend to the public’s emergency needs. The Municipal/Community Emergency Response Plan (ERP) focuses on essential measures for protecting the public. Included in this ERP is a mechanism for notification and activation of Provincial resources when the local ERP is not able to handle the complexity of a terrorist or hazardous materials incident.
The Provincial responsibilities include notifying the Federal government when Federal lands are involved and Federal Assistance is required. Depending on the nature of the emergency, a provincial minister may be delegated to act on behalf of the Premier. For example a toxic spill would fall under the Ministry of the Environment while an incident involving major highways or waterways would involve the Ministry of Transportation.
A major nuclear or radioactive emergency response would be directed by Emergency Management Ontario (EMO) with involvement of the Ministry of Public Safety & Security, and the use of the Provincial Emergency Response Plan and the Provincial Nuclear Emergency response Plan. In the event of a large scale emergency the Premier of Ontario may declare a provincial emergency and formally request through the EMO, assistance from the Federal government. The Federal government intervenes only when requested or when the emergency impacts on areas of Federal jurisdiction such as a war. During any suspected terrorist incident the RCMP has primary responsibility for crisis management and are to be notified by local police through the OPP Duty Officer. The Integrated National Security Enforcement Team (INSET) links all federal agencies and is led by the RCMP. Access to Federal resources is coordinated through EMO.
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Municipal/community emergency management coordinators can contact EMO at any time during an emergency response or pending emergency for advice and liason. However, actual Provincial and Federal assistance must be officially requested and coordinated through EMO. To Report Emergencies/Request Assistance The Duty Officer at EMO can be contacted on a 24 hours a day, 7 days a week basis at 1-877-314-3723 or 1-416-314-3723.
Summary
When first responders trained to the awareness level respond to a hazardous materials or terrorism incident, they must be aware of several key factors. They must approach the incident safely, and communicate any actions taken to the dispatcher. They must follow the planned procedures and direction of the Incident Commander that results from the Incident Management System, in order to ensure that the incident is handled appropriately, and that safety of personnel is maximized.
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Learning Checks Module 4 True or False. Circle T or F 1. T F A close approach to an incident scene is required before
identifying the presence of hazardous products.
2. T F An incident management system is required for only certain hazardous materials incident.
3. T F A first responder should always initiate scene security prior to communicating information to the dispatcher or other off-site authority or agency.
4. T F A command post must be established at a safe distance, to prevent the impact of exposure or explosion.
5. T F Incident size-up takes place continuously during hazardous materials incidents.
Multiple Choice. Circle your answer. 6. The reason why first responders should approach an incident from
upwind, uphill and upstream is to: a. avoid booby traps b. enable observation of environmental damage c. enable observation with binoculars d. maximize safety of personnel
7. Which of the following is not a step in scene security: a. establish road blocks b. post security c. establish single entry point d. remove package to a safe area
8. IMS refers to: a. a systematic framework designed to manage an incident b. the person in charge of the incident c. a systematic way of conducting incident size-up d. an approach to ensure scene security
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9. Which of the following is not a reason to follow an IMS
a. it ensures one person in-charge b. it eliminates free-lancing c. it increases responder safety d. it ensures that there is independent decision making
10. Isolation refers to a protective action where people:
a. inside a building remain inside until danger passes b. who are not involved in the emergency are kept away c. in a threatened area are moved to a safer place d. are to stay as far away from doors and windows as possible
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Answers to Learning Checks Module 1: Roles and Responsibilities for First Responders 1. false 2. false 3. true 4. true 5. true 6. true 7. d. 8. c. 9. c. 10. c. Module 2: Safety 1. true 2. false 3. false 4. true 5. true 6. d. 7. c. 8. b. 9. c.
10. d. Module 3: Recognition and Identification 1. false 2. true 3. true 4. false 5. true 6. b 7. a 8. a 9. d.
10. c.
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Module 4: Response and Incident Management 1. false 2. false 3. false 4. true 5. true 6. d. 7. d. 8. a. 9. d.
10. b.
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Glossary
2000 ERG 2000 Emergency Response Guidebook: A guidebook for first responders during the initial phase of a dangerous goods/hazardous materials incident. The guidebook is developed by U.S. Department of Transportation in conjunction with Transport Canada and SETIQ (Mexico) and is published every three years in English, French and Spanish.
Abatement The actions taken to reduce the amount, degree of the hazard, or intensity of the release or threatened release of a hazard.
Absolute Pressure Gauge pressure plus atmospheric pressure, abbreviated kpa (absolute) [psia (true pressure)].
Absorbent Material A material designed to pick up and hold liquid hazardous material to prevent contamination spread.
Absorption Taking in toxic material by contact with any exposed body surface. The process of “picking up” a liquid hazardous material to prevent enlargement of the contaminated area.
Acceptable Risk A risk, judged to be outweighed by corresponding benefits, or one that is of such a degree that it is considered to pose diminished potential for adverse effects.
Access Control Point The point of entry and exit, which regulates access to and from control zones.
Acid One of a large class of chemical substances whose water solutions have one or more of the following properties: sour taste, ability to make litmus dye turn red and to cause other indicator dyes to change to characteristic colours, ability to react with and dissolve certain metals to form salts, and ability to react with bases or alkalies to form salts. All acids contain hydrogen. In water, ionization or splitting of the molecule occurs, so that some or most of this
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hydrogen forms H3O+ ions (hydronium ions), usually written more simply as H+(hydrogen ion).
Acute Intense. Reaching a crisis rapidly Acute Effect A rapid effect to a human or animal body,
caused by exposure to a chemical or physical agent, with symptoms developing rapidly. Also see ‘chronic.’
Acute Toxicity The rapid effects resulting from a single dose or exposure to a substance. Acute effects are defined by the American National Standard Institute (ANSI) Standards for Precautionary Labeling of Hazardous Industrial Chemicals (Z129.1-1982).
Aerosol A dispersion of particles of microscopic size in a gaseous medium. Particles may be solid (dust, fume, smoke) or liquid (mist, fog).
Air Bill A shipping paper prepared from a bill of lading that accompanies each piece of an air shipment.
Air Inversion A meteorological condition in the earth’s atmosphere in which the temperature of the air some distance above the earth’s surface is higher than the air temperature of the surface. Normally, air temperatures decrease progressively as altitude increases. Such a condition traps air and released gases and vapours near the earth’s surface, thus impeding their dispersion.
Air Modeling Mathematical models used to predict movement and concentrations of airborne chemicals in the atmosphere
Air Monitoring The observation, recording, and/or detection of pollutants in ambient air
Air-Reactive Materials Substances that will ignite at normal temperatures when exposed to air.
Airborne Pollutants Pollutants that are carried in air Allocated Resources Resources dispatched to an incident that
have not yet checked in with the incident command system
Alpha Radiation Alpha particles are the heaviest and most highly charged of the nuclear particles.
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They cannot travel more than a few inches and will not penetrate outer skin layers. They are hazardous if ingested internally through food or drink.
Ambient Temperature The temperature of the surrounding environment under consideration.
ANSI American National Standards Institute; a privately funded, voluntary membership organization that identifies industrial and public needs for national consensus standards and coordinates development of such standards. Many ANSI standards relate to safe design/ performance of equipment such as safety shoes, eyeglasses, etc. and safe practices or procedures, such as noise measurement, testing of fire extinguishers and flame arrestors, etc.
Asphyxiant A vapour or gas which can cause unconsciousness or death by suffocation (lack of oxygen). Asphyxiants are harmful to the body when they become so concentrated that they reduce the oxygen content in the air (normally about 21%) to dangerous levels or prevent the body from utilizing the oxygen breathed. Asphyxiants are one of the principal potential hazards of working in a confined space.
Asphyxiating Materials Substances that can cause death through displacement of the oxygen in the air or in the blood stream.
Assigned Protection Factor See ‘Protection Factor’ Assigned Resources Resources checked in and assigned work
tasks on an accident. Assisting Agency An agency directly contributing
suppression, rescue, support, or service resources to another agency.
Available Resources Resources assigned to an incident, available for assignment
Beta Radiation Beta particles re small and travel faster than alpha particles. They can travel several millimeters through tissue but will not penetrate to vital organs. Exposure from outside the body is
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normally a slight hazard. Long periods of exposure may burn the skin.
Biological Agent A biological agent can be a bacteria, virus, rickettsia or toxin. They spread rapidly and cause disease or death. Exposure can be by inhalation (use of aerosols), ingestion (food or water contamination), absorption through the skin or injection by a puncture through the skin surface.
BLEVE Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapour Explosion. A container failure with a release of energy, often rapidly and violently, accompanied by a release of gas to the atmosphere, followed by ignition (fireball) and propulsion of the container or container pieces.
Boiling Point The temperature at which a liquid changes to a vapour state, at a given pressure; usually expressed in degrees Celsius (Fahrenheit) at sea level pressure (760 mm Hg, or one atmosphere). For mixtures, the initial boiling point or the boiling range may be given. Flammable materials with low boiling points generally present extreme fire hazards.
Boilover The violent expulsion of oil and froth from a tank due to the rapid expansion of water into steam when the heat wave in the oil reaches the water layer, usually suspended toward the bottom of a tank of heavy or unrefined oil.
Breakthrough The penetration of challenge material(s) through a gas or a vapour air-purifying element or fabric. The quantity or extent of breakthrough during service life is often referred to as the percentage of the input concentration.
Bulk Container
A cargo container such as that attached to a tank truck or tank car, used for transporting materials in bulk quantities.
Bulk Plant That portion of a property where flammable or combustible liquids are received by tank vessel, pipeline, tank cars, or tank vehicle, and are stored or
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blended in bulk for the purpose of distributing such liquids by tank vessel.
Bung A cap or screw used to cover the small opening in the top of a drum or barrel.
‘C’ or Ceiling The maximum allowable human exposure limit (not to be exceeded) for an airborne substance. Also see “PEL” and “TLV.”
CANUTEC Canadian Transport Emergency Centre operated by the Transport Dangerous Goods Directorate of Transport Canada.
Carboy A bottle or rectangular container for liquids of 22.5 l to 67.5 l (5 to 15 gallons) capacity that is made of glass, plastic, or metal and is often cushioned in a protective container.
Carcinogen A substance or agent capable of causing or producing cancer in mammals. (See also ‘Potential Occupational Carcinogen’)
Carcinogenisis The growth process of cancer as a result of exposure to a particular substance or agent.
Cargo Manifest A shipping paper that contains all of the contents being carried by the transporting vehicle or vessel.
cc Cubic centimeter; a volume measurement in the metric system, equal in capacity to one milliliter (ml). One quart is about 946 cc.
Chemical Regulated and nonregulated hazardous materials (solids, liquids, and gases, whether natural or man-made, including petroleum products) with the potential for creating harm to people, the environment and property when released.
Chemical Agent Can include substances that impede nerve transmission (SARIN), blister agents, block transport of oxygen in the blood ( hydrogen cyanide), cause choking (chlorine), or respiratory distress (tear gas or MACE), when in contact with skin or mucous membrane.
Chemical Family A group of single elements or compounds with a common name. Example: acetone, methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), and methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) are of the ketone
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family CHEMTREC Chemical Transportation Emergency
Center; a national center established by the Chemical Manufacturers Association (CMA) in Washington, DC, in 1970, to relay pertinent emergency information concerning specific chemicals on request.
Chronic Effect An adverse effect on a human or animal body, with symptoms which develop slowly over a long period of time and exposure to a chemical or physical agent. Also see “acute.”
Chronic Toxicity Adverse effects resulting from repeated doses of or exposures to a substance over a relatively prolonged period of time. Ordinarily used to denote effects in experimental animals.
Class A Explosive A material or device that presents a maximum hazard and functions by detonation. (DOT definition)
Class A Poison A poisonous gas or liquid of such nature that a very small amount of the gas, or vapour of the liquid, is dangerous to life.
Class B Explosive A material or device that presents a flammable hazard and functions by deflagration.(DOT definition)
Class B Poison Liquids or solids (other than Class A Poisons or Irritating Materials) which are known to be so toxic to humans as to afford a hazard to health during transportation.
Class C Explosive A material or device that contains restricted quantities of either Class A or Class B explosives or both, but presents a minimum hazard. (DOT definition)
Clear Text The use of plain English in radio communication transmissions. No ten codes, or agency specific codes, are used when using clear text.
CO Carbon Monoxide, a colourless, odourless, flammable and very toxic gas produced by the incomplete combustion of carbon; also a by-product of many chemical processes.
CO2 Carbon Dioxide, a heavy, colourless gas
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produced by complete combustion and decomposition of organic substances, and is a by-product of many chemical processes. CO2 will not burn and is relatively non-toxic (although high concentrations, especially in confined spaces, can create hazardous oxygen deficient environments).Is an asphixiant.
Cold Zone This area contains the command post and such other support functions as are deemed necessary to control the incident. This is also referred to as the clean zone or support zone.
Combustible Liquid A term used by NFPA, and others to classify certain liquids that will burn, on the basis of flash points. In the Hazard Communication Rules, a combustible liquid has a flash point at or above 37.80
C, (1000 F) but below 93.30 C (2000 F). Combustion Explosion Sudden fracture of a container or
structure accompanied by a shock wave (sound). Combustion of a flammable mixture within a container or structure producing a gas pressure greater than the container or structure can withstand.
Comm Unit (Communications Unit)
A vehicle (trailer or mobile van) used to provide the major part of an incident communications centre.
Command The act of directing, ordering, and/or controlling resources by virtue of explicit legal, agency, or delegated authority
Command Staff The Command Staff consists of the Information Officer, Safety Officer, and Liaison Officer. They all report directly to the Incident Commander.
(CP) Command Post That location at which the primary command functions are executed and usually co-located with the incident base.
Company Any piece of equipment having a full complement of personnel.
Competence Possessing knowledge, skills and judgement needed to perform indicated objectives satisfactorily.
Compressed Gas Any material which, when enclosed in a container, has an absolute pressure
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exceeding 275.8 kpa (40 psi) at 210 C (700
F) or exceeding 965.3 kpa (140 psi) at 550
C (1300 F). Compressed gas in Solution A non-liquefied gas that is dissolved in a
solvent but in a solution at high pressures (e.g., acetylene).
Concentration The relative amount of a substance when combined or mixed with other substances. (e.g., 2 parts per million (ppm) hydrogen sulfide in air; or a 50 percent caustic solution.)
Confinement Those procedures taken to keep a material in a defined or local area.
Confined Space An area large enough and so configured that a member can bodily enter and perform assigned work but which has limited or restricted means for entry and exit and is not designed for continuous human occupancy.
Consignee The person who is to receive a shipment. Consist A rail shipping paper similar to a cargo
manifest. It may contain a list of the cars in the train, in order or a list of those cars carrying hazmats and their location on the train.
Container Any bag, barrel, bottle, box can, cylinder, drum, reaction vessel, storage tank, or the like that contains a hazardous material.
Containment Those “procedures taken to keep a material in a specified area such as a dyke surrounding a tank or a temporary boom surrounding a spill etc.”
Contaminant A hazardous material that physically remains on or in people, animals, the environment, or equipment, thereby creating a continuing risk of direct injury or a risk of exposure.
Contamination The process of transferring a hazardous material from it’s source to people, animals, the environment or equipment which may act as a carrier.
Secondary Contamination The process by which a contaminent is carried out of the hot zone and contaminates people, animals, the
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environment or equipment. Control The procedures, techniques and methods
used in the mitigation of a hazardous materials incident, including containment, extinguishment and confinement.
Control Agent Any material that is used to contain or extinguish a hazardous material or its vapours.
Control Zones The designation of areas at a hazardous materials incident based upon safety and the degree of hazard.
Cooperating Agency An agency supplying assistance other than direct suppression, rescue, support or service functions to the incident control effort (e.g., Red Cross, law enforcement agency, telephone company, etc.)
Coordination The process of systematically analyzing a situation, developing relevant information, and informing appropriate command authority (for its decision) of viable alternatives for selection of the most effective combination of available resources to meet specific objectives. The coordination process (which can either be intra- or inter-agency) does not in and of itself involve command dispatch actions. However, personnel responsible for coordination may perform command or dispatch functions within limits as established by specific agency delegations, procedures, legal authority, etc.,
Corrective Actions Actions taken by the Incident Commander to correct the problem at hand during a hazmat/terrorist emergency.
Corrosive A corrosive material is a liquid or solid that causes visible destruction or irreversible alterations in human skin tissue at the site of contact; or a liquid or solid significantly deteriorates the container and/or packaging, resulting in breach of containment.
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Cryogenic Liquid Gases which must be cooled to a very low temperature to bring about a change from gas to liquid. Stored at temperatures from -1010 C (-1500 F) to absolute zero -272.70
C. (-4590 F) Cutaneous Toxicity See “Dermal Toxicity Dangerous Cargo Manifest A cargo manifest used on ships that
contains a list of all the hazardous materials on board, including their locations.
Decomposition Breakdown of a material or substance (by heat, chemical reaction, electrolysis, decay, or other processes) into parts, elements or simpler compounds.
Decontamination(contamination reduction)
The physical and/or chemical process of reducing and preventing the spread of contamination from persons and equipment used at a hazmat incident.
Decontamination Area The area, usually located within the warm zone, Area where decontamination takes place.
Deflagration Propagation of burning that takes place at a speed below the speed of sound.
Degradation A chemical action involving the molecular breakdown of a protective clothing material due to contact with a chemical. The term “degradation” may also refer to the molecular breakdown of the spilled or released material to render it less hazardous.
Demonstrate To show, by actual use. This may be supplemented by simulation, explanation, illustration or a combination of these.
Dermal Toxicity Adverse effects resulting from skin exposure to a substance.
Dermal Used on, or applied to, the skin. Detonation An extremely rapid reaction that
generates a shock wave which passes along the body of an explosive, at speeds greater than sound, producing a violently disruptive effect.
Dikes Temporary walls constructed to halt the flow of a liquid substance. Also, earthen or concrete walls surrounding oil tanks,
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designed to catch overflow from the tanks and relieve the danger of flowing flammable liquids spreading to other exposures.
Dirty Bomb An ordinary explosive device containing some radioactive material. Becomes a “radiological dispersal device”. Can use medical isotopes and be as small as one stick of dynamite. Contamination can be widespread and last for decades.
Dispatch The implementation of a command decision to move a resource or resources from one place to another.
Dispatch Centre A facility from which resources are directly assigned to an incident.
Disposable Respirators A respirator that is discarded after the end of its recommended period of use, after excessive resistance or physical damage, or when odour-breakthrough or other warning indicators render the respirator unsuitable for further use.
Division That organization level having responsibility for operations within a defined geographic area or with functional responsibility. The division level is organizationally between the strike team and the branch. (Also see Group)
Dome The circular cover on the top of a tank car that contains valves and relief valves.
Dust Any finely divided solid material. Usually smaller than 420 microns in size.
Dust and Mist Respirators Respirators approved for the use against dusts or mists that may cause pneumoconiosis and fibrosis.
Emergency Plan (EP) A document that assigns responsibility to organizations and individuals for carrying out specific actions at projected times and places in an emergency that exceeds the capability or routine responsibility or any one agency.
Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
A reference book, written in plain language, to guide emergency responders in their initial actions at the incident scene.
Emergency Respirator Use A situation that requires the use of
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Situation respirators due to the unplanned generation of a hazardous atmosphere (often of unknown composition) caused by an accident, mechanical failure, or other means and that requires evacuation of personnel or immediate entry for rescue or corrective action.
Emergency Shut-Off A means of operating a valve that stops the flow of substance.
Endangered Area The actual or potential area of exposure from a hazardous material.
Engine Company Any ground vehicle providing specified levels of pumping, water, hose capacity, and personnel.
Epidemiology The science which deals with the study of disease in a general population. Determination of the incidence (rate of occurrence) and distribution of a particular disease (as by age, sex, race, or occupation) may provide information about the causes of the disease.
Equilibrium (1) Chemical equilibrium is a condition in which a reaction and its opposite or reverse reaction occur at the same rate, resulting in a constant concentration of reactants; for example, ammonia synthesis is at equilibrium when ammonia molecules form and decompose at equal velocities (N2 + 3H2 Û 2NH3). (2) Physical equilibrium is exhibited when two or more phases of a system are changing at the same rate so that the net change in the system is zero.
Escape Gas Mask A gas mask that consists of a half-mask face piece or mouthpiece, a canister, and associated connections and that is designed for use during escape only from hazardous atmospheres.
Escape Only Respirator Respiratory devices that are designed for the use during escape from hazardous atmospheres.
Etiologic Agent An agent which produces an effect (e.g.: A living microorganism that may cause human disease.)
Evaporation Rate The rate at which a particular material
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will vaporize as compared to the rate of vaporization of a known material. The evaporation rate can be useful in evaluating the health and fire hazards of a material. The known material is usually butyl acetate (n-BuAc), with a vaporization rate designated as1.0. Vaporization rates of other solvents or materials are then classified as: FAST evaporating if greater than 3.0 (examples: Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)=3.8, Acetone=5.6, Hexane=8.3); MEDIUM evaporating if 0.8 to 3.0 (examples: 190 proof Ethyl Alcohol=1.4, VM&P Naptha=1.4, MBK=1.6); SLOW evaporating if less than 0.8 (examples: Xylene=.6, Isobutyl Alcohol=.6, Normal Butyl Alcohol=.4, Water=.3, Mineral Spirits=.1).
Excess Flow Valve A safety valve designed to shut-off the flow of a liquid when the flow exceeds a pre-set rate.
Explosive Any chemical compound, mixture or device, the primary purpose of which is to function by explosion.
Explosive Limits A range of concentrations of a mixture of flammable vapour or gas in air, usually expressed in percent by volume, in which a flash will occur or a flame will travel if the mixture is ignited. (Also known as ‘flammable limits’).
Exposures People, the environment or property that are or that may be exposed to the harmful effects of a hazardous materials emergency.
Feedback An element of a system that is the return of a portion of the output to the input. This allows the system to evaluate itself.
Filtering Facepiece A particulate respirator with a filter as an integral part of the face piece or with the entire face piece composed of the filtering medium. (See “Single-use dust” or dust and mist respirators and disposable respirators).
Fire Point The lowest temperature of a liquid at
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which vapours are evolved fast enough to support continuous combustion.
First Responder at the Awareness Level
Those persons who, in the course of their normal duties, could be the first on the scene of an emergency involving hazardous materials and who are expected to recognize the presence of hazardous material, protect themselves, call for trained personnel, and secure the scene.
Fit Factor A quantitative measure of the fit of a specific respirator face piece to a particular individual.
Flame Impingement The points where flames contact the surface of a container.
Flammable A “flammable liquid” is defined by NFPA as a liquid with a flash point below 37.80
C (1000 F). Solids which will ignite readily or are liable to cause fires under ordinary conditions of transportation through friction or retained heat from manufacturing or processing, and which burn so vigorously and persistently as to create a serious transportation hazard, are classified as “flammable solids.” Also
see “combustible.” Flammable Gas In order to be considered a ‘flammable’
gas, a chemical must have an LFL of 13% or below, or a flammable range of 12%.
Flammable Limits See “explosive limits”. Flammable Liquid Any liquid having a flash point below
37.80 C (1000 F).
Flammable Material A substance that is capable of being easily ignited and of burning rapidly.
Flammable Solid Any material, other than an explosive, that is liable to cause fires through friction, retained heat from manufacturing or processing, or that can be ignited readily and when ignited burns so vigorously and persistently as to create a serious transportation hazard.
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Flash Point The lowest temperature at which a liquid
substance gives off flammable vapours sufficient to form an ignitable mixture with air near the surface of the liquid. Combustion is not continuous at the flash point. There are several flash point test methods, and flash points may vary for the same material depending on the method used, so the test method is indicated.
Flashback Re-ignition of flammable liquid caused by exposure of its vapours to an ignition source.
Floating Roof A type of roof used on oil tanks to stop evaporation loss and reduce the fire hazard by reducing the vapour space over the liquid.
Food Dispenser Any vehicle capable of dispensing food to incident personnel.
Formula The conventional scientific designation for a material (water is H2O, sulfuric acid is H2SO4, sulfur dioxide is SO2, etc.)
Frothover A steady, slow frothing over of a tank without the sudden action that occurs in a boilover.
Fuel Tender Any vehicle capable of supplying fuel to ground or airborne equipment.
Fume A solid condensation particulate, usually of vapourized metal.
Fusible Plugs A safety relief device in the form of a plug of low melting metal. The plugs close the safety relief device channel under normal conditions, and are intended to yield or melt at a set temperature to permit the escape of gas.
Gamma Rays A type of electromagnetic radiation transmetted through space in the form of waves. They are the most penetrating type of radiation.
G/kg Grams per kilogram. An expression of dose used in oral and dermal toxicology testing, to indicate the grams of substance dosed per kilogram of animal
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body weight. Also see “kg” (kilogram). Gas A formless atmosphere which occupies
completely a space or an enclosure. An aeriform fluid that is in a gaseous state at a standard temperature and pressure.
Gauge Pressure The pressure read on a gauge, indicating a value that is above the atmospheric pressure.
General Exhaust A system for exhausting air-containing contaminants from a general work area. Also see “local exhaust.”
g Gram. A metric unit of weight. One ounce UIS (avoirdupois) is about 28.4 grams.
Group A functional division (e.g., air support, salvage, structure protection, etc.)
Half-Life The time required for an unstable element or nuclide to lose one-half of its radioactive intensity in the form of alpha, beta and gamma radiation. It is a constant for each radioactive element or nuclide. Half-lives vary from fractions of a second for some artificially produced radioactive elements to millions of years. The half-life of Uranium 235, for example, is 710,000,000 years.
Hatch Plan A schematic drawing of the location of all cargo on a ship (also referred to as a stowage plan).
Hazard Class A group of materials that share a common major hazardous property, e.g., radioactivity, flammability.
Hazard A condition which is capable of posing a risk to health, safety, or the environment. Capable of doing harm.
Hazardous Material A substance that poses a risk to life, the environment, or property, when released from its container.
Hazardous Materials Response Team
A group of trained response personnel operating under an emergency response plan and appropriate standard operating procedures to control or otherwise minimize or eliminate the hazards to people, property, or the environment from a released hazardous material.
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Heat Wave A layer of hot liquid in a tank produced by the heat of the burning vapour at the top of the tank. As the burning progresses, this layer becomes thicker, extending down into the liquid in the tank.
High Temperature Protective Clothing
Protective clothing designed to protect the wearer for short-term high-temperature exposures. This type of clothing is usually of limited use in dealing with chemical commodities.
Hot Zone The area immediately surrounding a hazardous materials incident which extends far enough to prevent adverse effects from hazardous materials releases to personnel outside the zone. This zone is also referred to as the exclusion zone or restricted zone.
IDLH Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health. The maximum level of concentration from which one could escape within thirty minutes without any escape impairing symptoms or health effects.
Ignitable Capable of being set afire Ignition Temperature The minimum temperature to which a
substance must be heated in order to initiate self-sustained combustion.
Incendiary Device Any mechanical, electrical or chemical device used to intentionally initiate combustion and start a fire.
Incident An occurrence or event - either human-caused or natural phenomenon - that requires action by emergency service personnel to prevent or minimize loss of life or damage to property and/or natural resources.
Incident Action Plan The incident action plan, which is prepared at the initial meeting of incident command, contains general control objectives reflecting the overall incident strategy and specific action plans for the subsequent operational period. When complete, the incident action plans will have a number of attachments.
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Incident Base That location at which the primary logistics functions are coordinated and administered. (The specific incident name or other designator will be added to “base” at the time of an incident.) The incident command post may be co-located with the base. There is only ever one base per incident.
Incident Management System (IMS)
The combination of facilities, equipment, personnel, procedures and communications, operating within a common organizational structure, with responsibility for the management of assigned resources to effectively accomplish stated objectives pertaining to an incident.
Incident Commander The person responsible (and accountable) for all decisions relating to the management of an incident. The Incident Commander is in charge of an incident.
Incipient Fires Fires that are in the beginning stages. Incompatible Materials which could cause dangerous
reactions from direct contact with one another are described as “incompatible.”
Individual Container A cargo container such as a box or a drum, used to transport materials in small quantities.
Infrared (IR) A heat detection system used for fire detection, mapping and hot spot identification.
Ingestion The intake of a substance through the mouth.
Inhalation Breathing a substance in the form of a gas, vapour, fume, mist or dust.
Inhibitor A substance which prevents or slows down a process or reaction.
Initial Attack Resources initially committed to an incident.
Irritant A substance which, by contact in sufficient concentration for a sufficient period of time, will cause an inflammatory response or reaction of the eye, skin or respiratory system. The contact may be a single exposure or multiple exposures.
Irritating An irritating material is a liquid or solid
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substance which, upon contact with fire, or when exposed to air, gives off dangerous or intensely irritating fumes (not including poisonous materials.)
kg Kilogram. A metric unit of weight, equivalent to about 2.2 US pounds.
l Litre. A metric unit of volume. A US quart is about 9/10 of a litre.
Labels 10 cm (4”) square diamond-shaped markers required on individual shipping containers smaller than 18 m3 (640 cu. ft.).
LC Lethal Concentration. A concentration of a substance that will kill an animal upon inhalation.
LC50 Lethal Concentration 50%. The concentration of a material in air, which, on the basis of laboratory tests, is expected to kill 50% of a group of test animals when administered as a single exposure (usually one to four hours). The LC50 is expressed as parts of material per million parts of air (ppm), by volume for gases and vapours, or as micrograms of material per litre of air (mg/l), or milligrams of material per cubic meter of air (mg/m) for dusts, mists, gases and vapours.
LD Lethal Dose. A concentration of a substance which will kill an animal by ingestion or skin contact.
LD50 Lethal Dose 50%. A single dose of a material, which, on the basis of laboratory tests, is expected to kill 50% of a group of test animals. The LD50 is expressed as milligrams or grams, or material per kilogram of animal body weight (mg/kg or g/kg).
LEL Lower Explosive Limit. (also known as “LFL” or “Lower Flammable Limit”) of a gas or vapour. The lowest concentration (lowest percentage of the substance in air) that will produce a flash of fire when an ignition source (heat, arc or flame) is present. At concentrations lower than the
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LEL, the mixture is too “lean” to burn. Also see “UEL.”)
LFL Lower Flammable Limit. (see LEL). Light Ends Petroleum products which have relatively
low flashpoints and high vapour pressure. Common light ends are methane, ethane, propane and butane.
Liquefied Gas A gas that is under pressure and is partially liquid at a temperature of 210 C (700 F).
Liquefied Petroleum Gas Petroleum gases which can be liquefied under moderate pressures. Common LPGs are butane and propane.
Local Exhaust A system for capturing and exhausting contaminants from the air at the point where the contaminants are produced (e.g. during welding, grinding, sanding). (Also see “General Exhaust”).
Low Pressure Tank A storage tank which has been designed to operate at pressures above 3.4 kpa (0.5 psig but not more than 103.4 kpa (15 psig).
Lower Explosive Limit See “LEL”. Lower Flammable Limit See “LFL”. m3 Cubic Metre. A metric measure of volume
equivalent to about 35.3 cubic feet or 1.3 cubic yards.
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
Documentation provided by manufacturers and compounders of chemicals with minimum information about chemical composition, physical and chemical properties, health and safety hazards, emergency response, and waste disposal.
Mechanical Exhaust A powered device - such as a motor-driven fan or air stream Venturi tube-for exhausting contaminants from a work[lace, vessel or enclosure.
Melting Point The temperature at which a solid substance changes to a liquid state. For mixtures, the melting “range” may be given.
mg Milligram. A metric unit of weight. 1000 milligrams = 1 gram (g).
mg/m3 Milligrams per cubic meter. Unit for
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measuring concentrations of gases, vapours or particles in air.
mg/kg Milligrams per kilogram. May reflect a concen-tration of dose.
MOE Ministry of the Environment. MOL Ministry of Labour. Miscibility A liquid’s ability to mix with water and
form a homogeneous mixture. Mist A liquid condensation particle. ml Milliliter. A metric unit of volume equal to
one cubic centimeter or about 1/16 of a cubic inch. 1000 ml = one litre.
mm Hg Millimeters of Mercury. A unit of measurement for low pressures or partial vacuums.
Mobilization Centre An off-incident location at which emergency service personnel and equipment are temporarily located pending assignment, release or re-assignment.
Monitoring Equipment Instruments and devices used to identify and quantify contaminants.
Mutagen A substance or agent capable of altering the genetic material in a living cell.
Mutagenisis Alteration of the inherited material N2 Nitrogen. A colourless, odourless and
tasteless gas that will not burn and will not support combustion. The earth’s atmosphere is about 78 percent nitrogen. At higher concentrations Nitrogen can displace Oxygen and become a lethal asphyxiant.
NFPA National Fire Protection Association. An international, voluntary organization dedicated to promoting and improving fire protection and fire-prevention, and to establish safeguards against loss of life and property by fire. Best known on the industrial scene for the National Fire Codes - 16 volumes of codes, standards, recommended practices and manuals developed and periodically updated by NFPA technical committees.
Nerve Agent A form of chemical agent that disrupts nerve transmissions. Similar to pesticides
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but with a higher degree of toxicity. Are usually in liquid form that is sprayed as an aerosol. Symptoms include sweating, tearing eyes, muscle twitching, tremors, difficulty breathing.
Non-Flammable Gas
A gas that does not burn, such as Nitrogen, or Carbon dioxide.
Non-Liquefied Gas A gas that is entirely gaseous at a temperature of 210 C (700 F).
NOS “Not Otherwise Stated” or “Not Otherwise Specified
NOx Oxides of nitrogen. Undesirable air pollutants, NOx emissions are regulated by EPA under the Clean Air Act.
OHSA Occupational Health and Safety Act refer to provincial legislation regarding workplace health and safety. The Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) is a regulation under this act.
Olfactory Relating to the sense of smell. The olfactory organ in the nasal cavity is the sensing element that detects odours and transmits information to the brain through the olfactory nerves.
Operational Period The period of time scheduled for execution of a given set of operational actions as specified in the Incident Action Plan.
Oral Used in or taken into the body through the mouth.
Oral Toxicity Adverse effects resulting from taking a substance into the body by ingestion.
Organic Peroxide An organic derivative of the inorganic compound hydrogen peroxide
Orinasal Respirator A respirator that covers the nose and mouth and generally consists of a quarter- or half-face piece.
ORM Other Regulated Materials. Materials that do not meet the definitions of hazardous materials, but possesses enough hazardous characteristics that they require regulation.
Orthophoto Maps Aerial photographs corrected to the scale such that geographic measurements may
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be taken directly from prints. They may contain graphically emphasized geographic features and may be provided with overlays of such features as water systems, important facility locations, etc.
Out-Of-Service Resources assigned to an incident, unavailable for various reasons.
Resources Oxidation In a literal sense, oxidation is a reaction in which a substance combines with oxygen, provided by an oxidizer or oxidizing agent. (See definitions below). In a broader sense, based on modern atomic theory, science today defines oxidation as a reaction - brought about by an oxidizing agent - in which atoms, molecules or ions lose electrons. In this broader sense, an oxidation reaction may occur even when oxygen is not present.
Oxidizing Ability The ability to yield oxygen readily to stimulate combustion.
Package Markings The descriptive name, instructions, cautions, weight or specification marks required to be placed on the outside containers of hazardous materials.
Packaging Any container that holds a material (hazardous or non-hazardous). Packaging includes non-bulk and bulk packaging.
Bulk Packaging Any packaging, including transport vehicles, having a liquid capacity or more than 450 L (119 gal), a solids capacity of more than 400kg (880 lb), or a compressed gas water capacity of more than 454kg (998 lb)
Penetration The movement of a material through a suit’s closures, such as zippers, buttonholes, seams, flaps or other design features of chemical protective clothing, and through punctures, cuts and tears.
Percent Volatile Percent Volatile by volume: the percentage of a liquid or solid (by volume) that will evaporate at an ambient temperature of 210 C (700 F) (unless some other temperature is stated). Examples: butane, gasoline and paint thinner (mineral spirits) are 100 percent volatile;
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their evaporation rates vary, but over a period of time, each will evaporate completely.
Permeation Is the flow of material through a porous material and can be at the molecular level.
Personal Protective Equipment The equipment provided to shield or isolate a person from the chemical, physical and thermal hazards that may be encountered at a hazardous materials incident. Adequate personal protective equipment should protect the respiratory system, skin, eyes, face, hands, feet, head, body and hearing. Personal protective equipment includes both personal protective clothing and respiratory protection.
PH Indication of the acidity or alkalinity of a substance. A pH from 1 to 7 is acidic and from 7 to 14, alkaline. A pH of 7 is neutral. Technically, pH is the logarithm of the reciprocal of the concentration of hydrogen ions in solution.
Piggyback Transport A type of shipping in which bulk containers from one mode such as highway transportation are placed on flat cars or container-ships for transportation by another mode such as rail or marine.
Placards Diamond shaped markers, a minimum of 25 cm x 25 cm (10-3/4 x 10-3/4”) required on hazmat transporting vehicles - trucks, tank cars, freight containers 18 m3 (640 cu. ft.) or larger, etc.
Poison, Class A A gas or liquid so toxic that an extremely small amount of the gas or the vapour formed by the liquid is dangerous to life
Poison, Class B Less toxic liquids and solids that are hazardous when absorbed or ingested.
Poison, Class C Liquids or solids that evolve toxic or strongly irritating fumes when heated or when exposed to air (excluding Class A poisons).
Poisons, Class D Radioactive materials Polar Solvents Any flammable liquid that is miscible with
water.
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Polymerization A chemical reaction in which one or more small compounds combine to form larger compounds. A hazardous polymerization is such a reaction which takes place at a rate which releases large amounts of energy (usually heat). If hazardous polymerization can occur with a given material, the MSDS usually will list conditions which could start the reaction, and since the material usually contains a polymerization inhibitor, the expected time period before the inhibitor is used up.
ppb Parts per billion. Unit for measurement of the concentration of a gas or vapour in air.
ppm Parts per million. Unit for the measurement the concentration of gases, vapours and solids.
Pressure Vessel A storage tank or vessel which has been designed to operate at pressures above 103.4 kpa (15psig).
Preventive Actions Actions taken by the incident commander at an emergency to prevent the problem from increasing.
Protection Factors Assigned protection factor (APF). The minimum anticipated protection provided by a properly functioning respirator or class of respirators to a given percentage of properly fitted and trained users. Simulated workplace protection factor (SWPF) A surrogate measure of the workplace protection provided by a respirator. Workplace protection factor (WPF) A measure of the protection provided in the workplace by a properly functioning respirator when correctly worn and used.
Protective Clothing Equipment designed to protect the wearer from heat and/or hazardous materials. Protective clothing is divided into three types: structural fire fighting protective clothing, chemical protective clothing, and high-temperature protective clothing.
psi Pounds per square inch (1 psi = 6.895
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kpa). For MSDS purposes, a unit for measuring the pressure a material exerts on the walls of a confining vessel or enclosure. For technical accuracy, pressure must be expressed as psig (pounds per square inch gauge) or psia (pounds per square inch absolute). However a differentiated pressure is shown as psi.
Pyrophoric Liquid Any liquid capable of igniting spontaneously when exposed to dry or moist air.
Radio Cache A cache may consist of a number of portable radios, a base station, and in some cases, a repeater, stored in a predetermined location for dispatch to incidents.
Radiation Sickness Acute radiation sickness occurs when an individual is exposed to a large amount of radiation within a short period of time. Symptoms include skin irritation, nausea, vomiting, high fever, hair loss and dermal burns.
Radioactive Material(RAM) Any material that spontaneously emits ionizing radiation
Radiological Dispersal Device (RDD)
A conventional explosive device incorporating nuclear materials in order to spread radioactive material throughout the bomb site.
Reaction A chemical transformation or change. The interaction of two or more substances to form new substances.
Reactivity A description of the tendency of a substance to undergo chemical reaction (usually with the release of energy). Undesirable effects such as pressure buildup, temperature increase, and formation of noxious toxic or corrosive products may occur because of the reactivity of a substance by heating, burning, direct contact with other materials or other conditions of use or storage.
Recommended Exposure Limit See “REL”. Reducing Agent In a reduction reaction (which always
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occurs simultaneously with an oxidation reaction) the reducing agent is the chemical or substance which combines with oxygen, or which loses electrons in the reaction. Also see “oxidation.”
Refinery A place where crude materials are purified.
REL Recommended exposure limit. An 8- or 10-hour, time weighted average (TWA) or ceiling (C) exposure concentration recommended by NIOSH which is based on an evaluation of health effects data.
Resources All of the immediate or supportive assistance available to help control an incident, including personnel equipment, control agents, agencies and printed emergency guides.
Respiratory Protection Equipment designed to protect the wearer from the inhalation of contaminants. Respiratory protection is divided into three types: positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus; positive pressure supplied-air respirators; and air purifying respirators.
Respiratory System The body’s breathing system, including the lungs, trachea, mouth and nose and the associated nervous and circulatory supply systems.
Response That portion of an incident management in which personnel are involved in controlling a hazardous materials incident.
Rupture Disk A safety relief device in the form of a metal disk that closes the relief channel under normal conditions. The disk bursts at a set pressure to permit the escape of gas.
SAC Spills Action Centre - a spill reporting centre operated by the MOE.
Safety Relief Valve A device found on pressure cargo tanks containing an operating part that is held in place by spring force. Valves open and close at set pressures.
Section That organization level having functional responsibility for primary segments of
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incident operations such as operations, planning, logistics, finance. The section-level is organizationally between branch- and incident-commander.
Sensitizer Substance, which on first exposure causes little or no reaction in humans but which, on repeated exposure, may cause a marked response not necessarily limited to the contact site. Skin sensitization is the most common form of sensitization in the industrial setting, although respiratory sensitization to a few chemicals is also known to occur.
Service Life The length of time for an air-purifying element to reach a specific effluent concentration. Service life is determined by the type of substance being removed, the concentration of the substance, the ambient temperature, the specific element being tested (cartridge or canister), the flow rate resistance and the selected breakthrough value. The service life for a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is the period of time, as determined by the NIOSH certification tests, in which adequate breathing gas is supplied.
Sheer Section A safety feature incorporated into cargo tank piping and fittings designed to fail or break completely to prevent damage to shut-off valves or the tank itself.
Shipping Documents A shipping order, bill of lading, manifest, or other shipping paper or document issued by the carrier.
Single-Use Dust Respirators approved for use against dusts or mists that may cause pneumoconiosis and fibrosis.
Slopover An expulsion of oil and froth from the surface of a tank, produced when water or foam is applied to a burning liquid surface.
Solubility A measure of the amount of a substance that will dissolve in another substance.
Solubility In Water A term expressing the percentage of a material, by weight, which will dissolve in
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water at ambient temperature. Solubility information can be useful in determining spill cleanup methods and fire extinguishing methods for a material. Terms used to express solubility are: negligible (less than 0.1 percent), slight (0.1 to 1.0 percent), moderate (1 to 10 percent), appreciable (more than 10 percent), and soluble in all proportions.
Span-Of-Control The supervisory ratio of three to seven individuals with five being established as a general rule of thumb.
Specific Gravity The ratio of the density of a substance to the density of a reference substance; it is an abstract number that is unrelated to any units. For solids and liquids, specific gravity is numerically equal to density, but for gases it is not, because of the difference between the density of the reference substances, which are usually water (1g/cc) for solids and liquids and air (0.00129 g/cc, or 1.29 g/L at 0o C and 760 mm Hg) for gases.
Spontaneous Combustion The process of increase in temperature of a material to a point of ignition without drawing heat from its surroundings.
Stability An expression of the ability of a material to remain unchanged. For MSDS purposesmaterial is stable if it remains in the same condition under expected and reasonable conditions of storage or use.
Stabilization The stage of an incident when the immediate problem or emergency has been controlled, contained or extinguished
Stage of Incident One of five definite and identifiable phases through which an emergency passes from onset (interruption of normal conditions) to stabilization
Staging Area That location where incident personnel and equipment are assigned. It is expected that personnel and equipment at the staging area must be available within three-minutes to enter the incident-area.
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OFM.CBRN/HMAFRO.SS
Standard Transportation Commodity Code (STCC number)
A listing of code numbers for categories of articles being shipped, in general use by carriers.
STEL Short-Term Exposure Limit Stress A state of tension put on a shipping
container by internal chemical action, external mechanical damage or external flames or heat.
Structural Firefighters Protective. Clothing
Clothing that will prevent gases, vapours, liquids and solids from coming in contact with the skin. This equipment includes helmet, SCBA, coat, and pants, rubber boots, gloves, bands around the legs, arms, waist and face mask, and covering for neck, ears, and all parts of the head not covered by the helmet or the SCBA or the face mask.
Subsurface Injection Discharge of foam or water into a storage tank from an outlet at the tank.
TAFRO Terrorism Awareness for First Responders in Ontario: Self-Study course. This course is available at http://www.gov.on.ca/OFM.
Teratogenisis Alteration in the formation of cells, tissues, and organs, resulting from physiologic and biochemical changes in a fetus during growth.
TLV-C The ceiling exposure limit - the concentration that should not be exceeded even instantaneously.
Toxic Materials Substances, which can be poisonous, if inhaled, swallowed or absorbed into the body through cuts or breaks in the skin.
Toxicity The sum of adverse effects resulting from exposure to a material, generally by ingestion, absorption through the skin or inhalation.
Trade Name The trademark name or commercial name for a material.
TWA Time Weighted Average. With reference to exposure, TWA is the airborne concentration of a material to which a person is exposed, averaged over the total exposure time (generally the total work day of 8 to 12 hours).
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UEL Upper Explosive Limit. (Also known as UFL or Upper Flammable Limit). The highest concentration of a vapour or gas that will produce a flash of fire when an ignition source (heat, arc or flame) is present.
UFL See UEL. Unified Command A method for all agencies or individuals
who have jurisdictional responsibility, and in some cases who have functional responsibility at an incident, to contribute to determining overall objectives for the incident and the selection of strategy to achieve those objectives.
UN/NA Identification Number The four-digit number assigned to a hazardous material, which is used to identify and cross-reference products in the transportation mode.
Unit That organizational element with functional responsibility for a specific incident planning, logistic or finance activity.
Unstable Tending toward decomposition or other unwanted chemical change during normal handling and/or storage.
Unstable Materials Substances capable of rapidly undergoing chemical changes or decomposition.
Vapour Gas given off, with or without the aid of heat, by substances that under normal circumstances are either solid or liquid.
Vapour Density The weight of a vapour or gas compared to the weight of an equal volume of air, or an expression of the density of the vapour or gas. Materials lighter than air have a vapour density of less than 1.0 (e.g., acetylene, methane, hydrogen). Materials heavier than air have a vapour density of more than 1.0 (e.g.,carbon dioxide, propane, hydrogen sulfide, ethane, butane, chlorine, sulfur dioxide).
Vapour Pressure The pressure exerted by the vaporization of a liquid in a closed container. When vapour pressure tests are performed on products, the test temperature is usually
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200 C (680 F) to 370 C (1000 F) and the vapour pressure is expressed as pounds per square inch (psig or psia). Vapour pressures reported on MSDSs are calculated in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) at 200 C (680 F) unless otherwise stated - The vapour pressure of a substance at - 37.80 C (1000 F) will always be higher
than the vapour pressure of a substance at 200 C (680 F)
- Vapour pressures reported on MSDSs in mm Hg are usually very low pressures. 760 mm Hg is equivalent to 14.7 psia
- The lower the boiling point of a substance the higher its vapour pressure.
Vapour Space Space left empty inside a tank containing liquefied gas to allow for expansion of the gas due to normal changes in temperature.
Vapourization The process of changing from liquid to vapour.
Ventilation See general exhaust, local exhaust and mechanical ventilation.
Viscosity The flow resistance of a liquid. This characteristic changes with the temperature of the liquid. Low-viscosity liquids have little adhesive qualities and hence flow freely.
Warm Zone Area where personnel and equipment decontamination and hot zone support takes place. It includes control points for the access corridor and thus assists in reducing the spread of contamination. This is also referred to as the decontamination, contamination reduction or limited access-zone/corridor.
Water Solubility The ability of a liquid or solid to mix with or dissolve in water
Water-Reactive Substances, generally flammable solids, that will react in varying degrees when mixed with water or when they come in contact with humid air.
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OFM.CBRN/HMAFRO.SS
Waybill The shipping paper prepared by the railroad from a bill of lading. Waybills generally accompany a shipment and are carried by the conductor in the caboose of a train.
Weak Seam In oil tanks, a special roof-to-shell seam attachment that is designed to give under overpressure and release vapour from the vapour space.
WHMIS Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) regulation under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), which made the use of MSDS a requirement.
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Ministry of the Solicitor General Instructions for Use:
This form is to be submitted for each student learner requesting a Certificate of Completion.
FAX COMPLETED APPLICATION TO ONTARIO FIRE COLLEGE
OFFICE OF THE REGISTRAR (705) 687 – 4611
PART 3 – APPROVAL I declare that I have completed the Terrorism/Hazardous Materials Awareness for First Responders in Ontario: Self- Study Course
SIGNATURE OF APPLICANT:
I declare that the above-noted student learner has completed the Terrorism/Hazardous Materials Awareness for First Responders in Ontario: Self-Study Course
SIGNATURE OF MANAGER OR DESIGNATE:
PART 1 - APPLICANT INFORMATION (Please Print)
___________________________________________________ SURNAME FIRST NAME INITIAL
Rank or Position:
Please Circle: MALE OR FEMALE FULL TIME OR VOLUNTEER
Delivery Address: City or Town Prov. Postal Code Home Telephone #
Terrorism/Hazardous Materials Awareness for First Responders in Ontario: Self-Study
Course Code
THM-03-1
Course Completion Date
PART 2 - FIRE DEPARTMENT or OTHER ORGANIZATION DETAILS
Name
Delivery Address
City/Town Province Postal Code
Fire Department or Other Organization Telephone Number: Fire Department or Other Organization Fax Number:
Office of the Fire Marshal
ONTARIO FIRE COLLEGE APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION Terrorism/Hazardous Materials Awareness
for First Responders in Ontario: Self-Study
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