2_ERG 012021

Introduction to HAZMAT Training

• Standardized Awareness Training for Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) and Emergency Response Guides (ERG)

• Designed for first responders in the early stages of a hazardous materials incident.

Objectives of HAZMAT Awareness Training

• Define key terms associated with HAZMAT/CBRNE (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive) incidents.

• Identify the nine DOT hazard classes for hazardous materials.

• Recognize hazardous materials through markings, colors, labels, and placards.

• Identify seven basic clues to recognize a HAZMAT incident.

• Understand initial protective actions that can be taken.

• Recognize shipping papers, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and facility documents for hazardous materials.

Key Definitions

Awareness Level Personnel/Responder

• According to HAZWOPER regulations (29 C.F.R. § 1910.120), awareness level responders are those trained to identify and notify authorities of hazardous substance releases without taking further action.

Relevant Agencies

• U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)

• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

• Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

• Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA)

Hazardous Materials Terminology

• Hazardous Material: A substance with the potential to harm health or the environment.

• Hazardous Substances: Specific materials that pose a threat under certain conditions.

• Hazardous Wastes: Discarded substances that have properties making them dangerous.

DOT Hazard Classes

1. Class 1: Explosives

   • Division 1.1: Mass explosion hazard

   • Division 1.2: Projection hazard

   • Division 1.3: Fire hazard

2. Class 2: Gases

   • Division 2.1: Flammable gases

   • Division 2.2: Nonflammable, nontoxic gases

   • Division 2.3: Toxic gases

3. Class 3: Flammable liquids

4. Class 4: Flammable solids

   • Division 4.1: Flammable solids

   • Division 4.2: Spontaneously combustible materials

   • Division 4.3: Dangerous-when-wet materials

5. Class 5: Oxidizers and organic peroxides

6. Class 6: Toxic (poisonous) substances

   • Division 6.1: Toxic substances

   • Division 6.2: Infectious substances

7. Class 7: Radioactive materials

8. Class 8: Corrosive substances

9. Class 9: Miscellaneous hazardous materials

Additional Hazard Designations

• Dangerous: General indication of risk.

• ORM-D: Other Regulated Materials-Domestic.

• Forbidden: Not transportable under any circumstances.

• Marine Pollutant: Harmful to marine environments.

• Elevated-Temperature Material: Material that is significantly above ambient temperatures.

Recognizing a HAZMAT Incident

Seven Basic Clues for Identification

• Occupancy and Location: Specific sites prone to hazardous materials.

• Container Shapes: Unusual shapes may indicate hazardous contents.

• Markings and Colors: Use of standardized color codes for identification.

• Labels and Placards: Detailed warnings about hazardous contents.

• Shipping Papers: Documentation indicating the materials being transported.

• Monitoring and Detection Equipment: Use of sensors to indicate hazards.

• Senses: Utilize sight, smell, hearing to ascertain potential risks.

Emergency Response (ERG) Overview

• The ERG is utilized by first responders during hazardous materials incidents, featuring color-coded sections designed for quick reference.

  • White Section: General information.

  • Yellow Section: Identification of materials through UN numbers.

  • Blue Section: Emergency response information.

  • Orange Section: Information on the response to specific hazardous materials.

  • Green Section: Protective actions to be taken for inhalation hazards.

Response Actions

1. Step 1: Identify the material using the 4-Digit UN ID number.

2. Step 2: Determine the 3-Digit Guide Number.

3. Step 3: Refer to the appropriate section based on findings (i.e., orange pages for general hazardous materials, green pages for inhalation hazards).

Protective Actions

• Assess the situation and hazards present.

• Isolate and Deny Entry: Secure the incident area from unauthorized personnel.

• Evacuate: Clear the area of all personnel if necessary.

• Shelter-in-place: Instruct individuals to remain indoors to avoid exposure.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements

• Street Clothing/Uniforms: Basic attire suitable for initial response.

• Structural Firefighting Protective Clothing: For fire-related incidents.

• Positive-Pressure Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA): Essential for toxic environments.

• Chemical Protective Clothing and Equipment: Necessary for contact with hazardous materials.

Shipping Paper Regulations

• Shipping papers must identify the mode of transportation, the location of the hazardous materials, and emergency contacts.

• Formats vary by transportation mode:

  • Highway: Bill of lading.

  • Rail: Consist or waybill.

  • Water: Dangerous cargo manifest.

  • Air: Air bill with a shipper’s declaration of dangerous goods.

Conclusion

• Awareness and understanding of HAZMAT terminology and practices are crucial for safely responding to hazardous materials incidents.

• A clear grasp of classifications, clues for recognition, and procedural actions can significantly impact the effectiveness of emergency responses.