N4S2 Disaster: Midterms Part 2

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)

is a Canada-based system designed to protect workers by ensuring they have the information needed to handle hazardous substances safely

- Labels

- Safety Data Sheets (SDS)

- Worker Training

- GHS (Globally Harmonized System)

WHMIS includes?

Globally Harmonized System (GHS)

symbols are also used internationally, showing pictograms like flames for flammables or skulls for toxins.

Disposal System Hazmat

Safe disposal is crucial to prevent environmental harm and human exposure

Incineration

Neutralization

Landfilling

Recycling / Reclaiming

Bioremediation

Methods of Disposal

Incineration

High temperature burning - used for medical waste and certain chemical

Neutralization

Chemical are treated to make them less hazardous (e.g. acid base neutralization)

Landfilling

For stabilized materials that wont reach harmful substances

Recycling / Reclaiming

Solvents, Oil, or Metals may be purified or reused

Bioremediation

Using microbes to break down hazardous organic materials (e.g. oil spills)

Knowing what you're dealing with (labeling / SDS)

Using the right protective equipment

Following disposal rules to protect health and environment

Handling Hazmat (Safety Requirements)

Decontamination

Process of removing or neutralizing dangerous substances to prevent harm to people/ animal/ environment its crucial in emer

Emergency Decontamination

Gross Decontamination

Technical Decontamination

Types of Decontamination

Emergency Decontamination

quick immediate action to reduce contamination (rinsing w/ water)

Gross Decontamination

Removal of bulk contamination, often with large amount of water or specialized solution.

Technical Decontamination

systematic cleaning using specific agents, especially for hazardous chemicals or radiologic materials.

Self Decontamination

Allow individuals to decontaminate themselves in situations where help may be delayed

When used: For public safety after chemical or biological exposure

The Hazard

The Situation

Available Resources

Which type to use? It depends on:

The Hazard

CBRN or physical contamination

The Situation

Emergency vs Planned Decontamination

Available Resources

Water, Specialized Cleaning Agent, Equipment, Personnel

Hot Zones (Contaminated)

Warm Zones (Decontaminated)

Cold Zones (Safe, Clean Area)

Decontamination Zone

Pabasa nalang

Decontamination Steps

Physical Removal

Chemical Neutralization

Absorption/Adsorption

Disposal

Monitoring / Verification

Decontamination Phases

Physical Removal

Rinse w/ water, scrubs, or wipe of substances

Chemical Neutralization

Use specific neutralizers (bleach for biological hazard)

Absorption / Adsorption

Use materials like clay, sand, or activated charcoal to soak up hazardous substances

Disposal

Secure contaminated clothing, equipment, or waste property

Monitoring and Verification

Check Remaining Contamination with Detection Equipment

Repeat the Decontamination if needed

Medical Evaluation

monitor people exposed to ensure no lingering effect especially for CBR

Certification of Decontamination

official process that confirms an area, equipment, or person has been properly decontaminated and is safe for re-entry, use of transport. It's crucial in hazardous material incidents to ensure no lingering danger remains — especially for CBRN threats

- Identify the hazardous material(s) involved

- Determine the level of contamination

- Set decontamination plan

Initial Assessment (Key Elements of Certification of Decontamination)

- Chemical Sensors

- Radiologic Monitors

- Biological Testing Kits

- Take surface sample, air sample, or use real-time meters, depending on the material

Conduct post decontamination testing using detection equipment like:

e.g. pill strips, gas detector

Chemical Sensors

e.g. Geiger Counters

Radiologic Monitor

e.g. Swab cultures

Biological Testing Kits

1. Hazmat Team

2. Environmental Health Specialist

3. Industrial Hygienist

4. Certified Decontamination Contractors

5. Regulatory Agencies

Who can certify Documentation?