HazMat for First Responders (2nd Edition) · Web viewHazMat for First Responders (2nd Edition) Chapter 2 - Properties of HazMat Test Review HazMat may be elements, compounds, or mixtures

Hazardous Materials for First Responders (2nd Edition) Study NotesHazMat for First Responders (2nd Edition)

Chapter 1 - Intro to HazMatTest Review

Emergency response organizations are responsible for preparing their personnel for HazMat when it may be encountered during the normal course of work.

NFPA standards are considered consensus standards while OSHA produces governmental regulations.

First responders include firefighters, police officers, EMS workers, industrial emergency response personnel, utility workers, & other members of private industry.

HazMat is termed "Dangerous Goods" in Canada. Transporation modes for HazMats include road, rail, water, air, & pipelines. HazMat can be encountered at ordinary facilities such as service stations, hardware stores, doctor's

offices, school labs, agriculture & Co-Op stores, farms, & residences. Tanker trucks are found in every jurisdiction. Liquid & gaseous products are carried in pipelines. Doctor's offices & medical buildings can contain hazardous chemicals, etiological agents, &

radiation hazards. Paints, thinners, & garden chemicals are considered HazMats & can be found in hardware

stores.First responder responsibilities include:

Pre-incident planning, recognition, incident controlDetermination of HazMat types, properties, &

characteristicsMethods used to transport/handle HazMat

Defensive actionsLocal, state, & federal regulations for HazMat

A HazMat incident is one that involves a substance that has been released or is on fire. Causes of HazMat incidents, such as human error, package failure, & vehicle accidents/derailments,

cannot be regulated by law. Government regulations for HazMat covers issues such as packaging, labeling, inspection/operation

of fixed facilities, & transportation vehicles/methods. Operations that may have to be performed simultaneously at a HazMat incident include: Rescue,

Evacuation/Sheltering in Place, Exposure Protection, Confinement/Containment, & Emergency Notification.

Awareness level personnel are responsible for recognition/presence of HazMat, protecting themselves, calling for assistance, & securing the area.

Securing a HazMat incident is a basic measure for first responders. Operations level first responders normal duties include responding in a defensive manner. Operations level first responders are responsible for all 4 awareness level responsibilities plus

confining the release in a defensive fashion from a safe distance. All HazMat incidents can be viewed as learning experiences regardless of their magnitude. The potential for a HazMat incident can exist any time during a material's lifetime, whether in raw

form or when mixed or refined. Some materials become more dangerous after they are refined. Materials that are ready to be consumed or used in any physical state may be stored as a gas or a

liquid. Chlorine may be used or stored as a gas in industry, but is used in the liquid state in household

bleach. Some hazardous waste is treated to remove or destroy its dangerous properties while some is sold for

raw material. Hazardous wastes such as improperly stored mixed materials, flammable liquids, heavy metals, and

various carcinogens, mutagens, and teratogens, have been found in lagoons, pits, septic tanks, storage vessels, and drums.

Copyright FireNotes, Inc® 2005 Unauthorized Duplication Prohibited Page 1 of 41

Hazardous Materials for First Responders (2nd Edition) Study Notes Hazardous waste must be stored in a special container specified by law and must be secured in a

facility permitted as a hazardous waste site. When assessing risk of rescuing a life, the responder should evaluate the risk to rescuers, probability

of victim survival, difficulty of rescue, capabilities/resources of on-scene forces, possibility of explosions & sudden material release, available escape routes, distance/time constraints.

Many HazMat incident will require agencies such as Fire, Police, EMS, the material's Manufacturer/Shipper, Government Agencies, Technical Support Groups (CHEMTREC/CANUTEC), and Specialized Emergency Response Groups.

When agencies pre-plan together, vital resource information can be shared and rapport between agencies can be developed.


Hazardous Materials for First Responders (2nd Edition) Study Notes

HazMat for First Responders (2nd Edition)Chapter 2 - Properties of HazMat

Test Review HazMat may be elements, compounds, or mixtures found in gaseous, liquid, or solid states or in a

combination of states. An exposure may be acute (single occurence) or chronic (long-term, re-occuring) and may have

health effects that are immediate or delayed. Threats/harmful effects of HazMat include: thermal, mechanical, poisonous, corrosive,

asphyxiation, radiation, and etiological. Living microorganisms that cause diseases, such as hepatitis and tuberculosis, are etiological agents. Mechanical exposures from direct contact or fragments can result in blisters, bruises, and lacerations. Thermal effects (related to temperature extremes) can cause heat stress, heat cramps, heat

exhaustion, heat rash, heat stroke, and frostbite. Cold exposure from cryogenic substances such as refrigerated liquids and liquified gases can cause

serious tissue damage. The core temperature of an individual is the deep temperature of the body, not the

skin/extremity temperature.Heat Exposure Facts

CONDITION SIGNS/SYMPTOMS CAUSES

Heat Stroke

NO perspiration, SHALLOW breathing, RAPID pulse, Headache, Weakness, Temp 105oF or higher, Hot/Dry/Red skin, Confusion, Convulsion, Loss of Consciousness

Occurs after heat exhaustion stage, true emergency

Heat CrampsMuscle Cramps, HEAVY perspiration, Physical weakness, MOIST skin

Occurs after heavy exertion and exposure to high temperatures as a result of excessive salt loss

Heat Exhaustion

MILDLY elevated temperature, WEAK pulse, Dizziness, PROFUSE sweating, Cool/Moist/Pale skin

Occurs with prolonged physical work in a hot environment, Causes a mild form of traumatic shock due to body not being able to release excessive heat

Heat Rash Intolerance to heat, mainly an annoyance Occurs when continuous heat/humid air contacts skin.

Carbonated drinks should be avoided to replenish body fluids. Balanced diets usually provide enough salts to prevent cramping. Long cotton undergarments provide natural body ventilation. Mobile showers/misting facilities can be used to reduce body temperature and cool protective

clothing. Alcohol, coffee, and caffeinated drinks contribute to dehydration and heat stress. Liquid oxygen (LOX), nitrogen, helium, hydrogen, and liquid natural gas (LNG) are examples of

cryogenic materials. Cryogens can freeze materials, including human tissue, instantly. Fluorine is an example of a cryogen that is also a corrosive, oxidizer, and poison hazard. Cryogenic/liquified gases vaporize quickly when released from their containers. Frost Nip/Incipient Frostbite consists of whitening or blanching of skin. Superficial frostbite consists of waxy or white skin, outer layers of skin firm to touch, and underlying

layers of tissue being flexible. Deep frostbite consists of cold, pale, skin that is solid to touch. Systemic hypothermia consists of shivering, sleepiness, apathy, listlessness, core temperature <95oF,

SLOW pulse and breathing, glassy eyes, unconsciousness, freezing of extremities, and death. Damage from direct contact with an object is termed Mechanical Trauma. Two common types of mechanical damage are striking and friction.


Hazardous Materials for First Responders (2nd Edition) Study Notes Striking injuries can be seen with pressurized container failures and can result in bruises, lacerations

and punctures (sharp objects), and even avulsions. Friction injuries are less common with HazMat (most common occurrence is PPE rubbing against

skin). Friction injuries result from rubbing against abrasive/irritating surfaces and cause raw skin, blisters,

and brush burns. POISONOUS EFFECTS

Type Examples Body part affectedNephrotoxic Agents Halogenated hydrocarbons KidneysHematotoxic Agents Benzene, nitrites, naphthalene, and arsine BloodNeurotoxic Agents Organophosphates, such as parathion (a pesticide) Nervous SystemHepatotoxic Agents Ammonia, carbon tetrachloride, and phenols Liver

Poisonous irritants and asphyxiants interfere with oxygen flow to the lungs and blood. Nerve poisons act on the body's central nervous system by blocking nerve impulses that control

circulatory and respiratory systems. Chemical exposures involving corrosives, destroy or burn living tissue. Corrosives in contact with flammables can result in fire or explosion. Common acids include hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, and sulfuric acid. Acids can cause pain on contact. Bases break down fatty tissues and can penetrate deep into the body. Examples of bases include caustic soda, potassium hydroxide, and alkaline materials. A sign of exposure to a base is a greasy or slick feeling of the skin. General symptoms of external corrosive exposure include burning around eyes, nose, and mouth,

nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, swallowing, or coughing, and localized burning or skin irritation.

Simple asphyxiants are generally inert gases (acetylene, CO2, helium, hydrogen, nitrogen, methane, ethane) that displace oxygen.

Chemical asphyxiants, also called blood poisons (CO, hydrazine, benzene, toluene), prohibit the body from using oxygen.

Compounds such as carbon monoxide (CO) reacts more readily with blood, creating CO2 which is transported to cells, causing oxygen starvation.

Hydrazine is a compound that liberates hemoglobin from red blood cells which disables transport of oxygen.

Compounds such as benzene and toluene cause malfunction of the oxygen-carrying capability of red blood cells.

Examples of chemical asphyxiants include hydrogen cyanide, aniline, acetonitrile, and hydrogen sulfide.

Acetylene is classified as an aspyxiant. Radiation can cause somatic effects (to individuals) and genetic effects (to future generations). Internal radiation occurs when radioactive materials enter the body through respiration, ingestion, or

skin penetration. Severity of radiation injury depends on type of radiation, dose rate, body part exposed, and total dose

received. Radiation sickness is caused by exposure to large amounts of radiation and includes symptoms such

as nausea, vomiting, and malaise. Radiation injury occurs from high amounts of less-penetrating types of radiation with most common

symptoms being burns, usually to hands (from improper handling). Internal radiation can cause anemia or cancer.. The most common cause of radiation poisoning is internal exposure from alpha particles. Radiation sickness, injury, and poisoning are NOT contagious. Victims can be contaminated with radioactive material but can NOT become radioactive themselves. Potential for radiation exposure can be found in facilities such as medical centers, industrial

operations, power plants, and research facilities.


Hazardous Materials for First Responders (2nd Edition) Study Notes Standard firefighting PPE shields against Alpha and LOW-energy Beta radiation ONLY.

Radiation Characteristics

Type Make Up Hazards Shielding Protective Equipment

Alpha (particles) Large mass, positive charge Ingestion,

inhalation Sheet of paper Regular PPE with SCBA

Beta (particles)

1/7000th the size of alpha particle, negative charge

Entrance through damaged skin, inhalation, ingestion

Heavy plastic, wood, thin metal

Regular PPE with SCBA

X-Ray No charge, arises from complete atom

Somatic and genetic effects

Very dense materials such as lead

PPE provides NO protection

Gamma No charge, arises from nucleus of an atom

Somatic and genetic effects

Very dense materials such as lead


Neutrons No charge, highly penetrating

Can cause release of secondary radiation

Distance and dense materials


Gamma and X-ray radiation are the 2 most dangerous forms of radiation when uncontrolled. Uncontrolled radiation produces neutrons along with gamma radiation. Neutron radiation is difficult to measure in the field so it is estimated based on gamma

measurements. Neutron radiation is most likely encountered in research laboratories. Radiation protection strategies include time (shorter exposure time=smaller dose), distance (farther

from source=smaller dose), and shielding (lead, earth, concrete, etc.). Thickness of shielding used to protect against radiation should take into account the type of material,

type of radiation, and distance from source. Examples of diseases associated with etiological event include hepatitis, AIDS, tuberculosis, and

typhoid. Most etiological agents (diseases) are carried in bodily fluids. Irritants (toxins) primarily affect the respiratory system. Irritants give off vapors that attack mucous membranes such as eyes, nose, mouth, throat, and lungs

and can cause severe inflammation (usually temporary). Sensitizers and allergens cause an allergic reaction after repeated exposure (2nd exposure or later). Convulsants (strychnine, organophosphate, carbamates, picrotoxin) cause seizures along with a sense

of suffocation, dyspnea, and muscular rigidity. Convulsants can cause death from asphyxiation or exhaustion. Carcinogens, mutagens, and teratogens cause permanent, irreversible conditions. Carcinogens are cancer-causing agents such as polyvinyl chloride, asbestos, some chlorinated

hydrocarbons, arsenic, nickel, some pesticides, and many plastics. Mutagens (ie.-benzene, ethyl oxide) cause change in the genetic system of a cell and can be

transmitted during cell division (affecting offspring). Teratogens (ie.-ionizing radiation, ethyl alcohol, methyl mercury, thalidomide, dioxins, rubella)

cause congenital malformation of a developing fetus. Mutagens may be hereditary, teratogens are NOT. Hazardous materials may enter the body through inhalation, ingestion, injection, or absorption. Examples of inhalation hazards include vapors, gases, liquid aerosols, fumes, and suspended dusts. Eating, drinking, and smoking can provide a way for hazardous materials to enter the body. The process of taking in hazardous materials through the mouth by other than normal inhalation is

called ingestion. Tobacco, food, and drinks should be prohibited in a HazMat area.


Hazardous Materials for First Responders (2nd Edition) Study Notes When hazardous materials enter the body through a puncture or stick (needle), the entry is termed

injection. When hazardous materials are taken into the body through the skin or eyes, it is termed absorption. Absorption can occur with eyes, neck, hands, groin, underarms, and breaks of the skin. Asbestos, mercury, silica, and heavy metals attack the body internally, but have NO external effect. Chlorine, sulfuric acid, anhydrous ammonia, and isopropyl alcohol affect the body internally and

externally. General symptoms of HazMat exposure include: confusion, light-headedness, anxiety, dizziness,

blurred/double vision, coughing/painful respiration, skin color changes/blushing, tingling/numbness of extremities, loss of coordination, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, diarrhea, changes in behavior/mannerisms, and unconsciousness.

Gases have neither independent shape nor volume and tend to expand indefintely. Steam is the gaseous form of water, ice is the solid form of water. Liquids have no independent shape but do have a specific volume. Solids have a specific shape (without a container) and volume. Solids pose the least amount of danger of any state of matter. Principal dangers of HazMat include: health risks, flammability, and reactivity characteristics. Nitric acid produces a colored vapor cloud. Cyanides are colorless and odorless. Never rely on sight, smell, touch, or taste to detect HazMat. Threshold Limit Values (TLV) are established by the American Conference of Governmental

Industrial Hygenists (ACGIH) and are published in the Threshold Limit Value and Biological Exposure Indices.

TLVs are adjusted on an annual basis. TLV-TWAs are expressed in parts per million (ppm) and milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3) with

lower numbers being more toxic. TLV-TWAs are for use in the workplace and are not applicable to exposure in HazMat emergencies. A TLV-STEL is an exposure that can be tolerated without suffering irritation or chronic/irreversible

tissue damage. A TLV-STEL limit should NOT cause an individual to experience narcosis to a degree that causes

accidental injury, impairment of self-rescue, or reduction of worker efficiency. The Threshold Limit Value/Ceiling (TLV-C) is the maximum concentration that should NEVER be

exceeded and workers must wear PPE including respiratory protection. A PEL is the same as a TLV-TWA except that PELs are adopted by the Occupational Safety and

Health Administration (OSHA) upon recommendation of ACGIH or the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

The lower the Lethal Dose (LD) or Lethal Concentration (LC) number, the more toxic it is. An atmospheric concentration of any toxic, corrosive, or asphyxiating substance that poses an

immediate threat to life is termed, Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH). Respiratory protection is required at IDLH levels. The flammability of a material depends on flash point, autoignition, temperature, and flammable

(explosive) range. Vital property information when dealing with flammables are specific gravity, vapor density, boiling

point, and water solubility. The minimum temperature at which a liquid fuel gives off sufficient vapors to form an ignitable

mixture in air near its surface is termed Flash Point. At the Flash Point temperature, vapors will "flash" (in the presence of ignition source) but will NOT

continue to burn. Flammable liquids do not burn, the vapors they produce do. Flammable gases have NO flash point because they are already in a gaseous state. A Fire Point is usually slightly higher than the flash point and is the point at which enough vapors

are present to support continuous combustion. Self-sustained combustion without the initiation of an independent ignition source is a substance's

Autoignition Temperature (usually significantly higher than the flash/fire points).


Hazardous Materials for First Responders (2nd Edition) Study Notes The percentage of the gas or vapor concentration in air that will burn if ignited is called Flammable

(explosive) Range. Below the flammable range (also termed Lower Explosive Limit-LEL), the vapor concentration is

too lean to burn, meaning too little fuel and too much oxygen. Above the flammable range (also termed Upper Explosive Limit-UEL), the vapor concentration is

too rich to burn, meaning too much fuel and too little oxygen. Ventilating concentrations above the UEL will cause an explosive mixture. Specific gravity is the weight of a substance compared to the weight of an equal amount of water at a

given temperature. Vapor density compares gases to the density of air. The spread of vapors can NOT be predicted exactly from vapor density because other factors such as

topography, weather conditions, and vapor mixture in air must be taken into account. Boiling Point is the temperature at which a substance rapidly changes from a liquid to a gas or when

the rate of evaporation exceeds the rate of condensation. Below the Boiling Point, liquids change to a gas, slowly, through evaporation. Vapor Pressure is when a gas in a closed container condenses at the same rate as evaporation. Water Solubility (miscibility) is a liquid's ability to mix with water. Diluting a flammable liquid with water that is miscible (soluble) in water can raise the flash point

and therefore be a method of control. Polar solvents are water-soluble flammable liquids, while hydrocarbons are NON water-soluble

flammable liquids. Hydrogen cyanide is produced when nitrogen-containing materials burn. Hydrogen chloride is produced when polyvinyl chloride burns. Acrolein, a potent irritant, is produced when polyethylene burns. The ability to undergo chemical reaction with another substance is called Reactivity. Examples of unstable materials that crystallize or deteriorate are picric acid, ether, dynamite, organic

peroxides, and nitroglycerin. Hypergolic materials ignite when coming in contact with each other. Hypergolic reactions involve mixing of a fuel and an oxidizer. Liquid Oxygen (LOX) can violently react if spilled on asphalt, macadam, or blacktop. Rocket fuel, which is a mixture of either nitric acid or nitrogen tetroxide with hydrazine, is an

extensively used hypergolic material. Pyrophoric materials ignite on contact with air and are usually packed in inert substances or stored

under pressure in sealed containers. Examples of pyrophoric materials include: white phosphorus, molten sodium, cesium, potassium,

aluminum alkyls, rubidium, powdered titanium, and powdered uranium. Water-reactive materials, usually flammable solids, react in varying degrees when in contact with

water or humid air. Lithium and finely divided magnesium are water-reactive materials that decompose into separate

hydrogen and oxygen (fuel/oxidizer) molecules when in contact with water, producing extreme reactions.

Sodium and cesium react explosively when in contact with water. Nonburning magnesium powder, potassium, and rubidium decomposes in water and can create

enough heat to ignite the hydrogen in water. Water coming in contact with calcium carbide can produce acetylene gas (highly flammable).



HazMat for First Responders (2nd Edition)Chapter 3 - Recognizing & Identifying HazMat

Test Review A first responders on-site decisions can be reduced by preparing pre-incident plans, establishing

procedures, and pre-assigning actions prior to an incident. Pre-planning identifies locations/quantities of HazMat, dangers, difficulties with property access,

and inherent limitations of responding departments. Informal indications of the presence of HazMat at an incident can come from verbal reports of

bystanders, occupancy type/location, visual physical/chemical indicators, and trade/common names. Questions to be asked of officials at a HazMat scene include: 1) Who is the reporting party and

where did the info come from? 2) Materials involved and how were they identified? 3) How much material is involved and what is it's current state (spill, leak, flow rate, contained, subject to fire, under pressure)? 4) Location/number of personnel?

Highly probable locations for HazMat include facilities such as fuel storage, paint supply, plant nurseries, doctor's offices, photo processing, dry cleaners, plastic/high-technology factories, metal plating, and mercantile.

Off-loading hose, forklifts, dollies, booms, A-frames, ramps, and assorted rigging can indicate that HazMat is present.

Frequent Accident LocationsHighways Railways Waterways Airways Pipelines

Designated truck routes

Depots, terminals, switch/classification yards

Difficult passages Fueling ramps Exposed crossings

Blind Intersections Poorly laid/maintained trackBridges Repair/maintenance

hangars Pumping stations

Poorly marked/engineered interchanges

Steep grades Piers & Docks Freight terminals Construction/demolition sites

Congested traffic areas Shunts/sidings Shallows Intermediate/final

storageHeavily traveled roads

Uncontrolled crossings Locks

Sharp Turns Loading Stations Steep Grades Highway interchanges/ramps

Tangible evidence of HazMat includes spreading vapor clouds, melting gloves, dead fish, container deterioration, which indicate that physical and/or chemical reactions are taking place.

Physical actions do not change the elemental composition of the hazardous material, while chemical actions convert one substance into another.

Indications of physical actions include: rainbow sheen on water, wavy vapors over a volatile liquid, frost near a leak, deformed containers, operating pressure-relief devices, and pinging/popping of heat exposed vessels.

Visual/sensory indicators include: Extraordinary fire conditions, peeling/discoloration of container, splattering/boiling of unheated materials, colored vapor clouds, smoking/self-igniting materials,


Hazardous Materials for First Responders (2nd Edition) Study Notesunexpected deterioration of equipment, peculiar smells, unexplained changes in ordinary materials, and symptoms of chemical exposure.

Symptoms of chemical exposure include: changes in respiration, consciousness, activity level, excretion/thirst, pain, abdominal distress, visual disturbances, and skin changes.

The Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) is produced by the US Department of Transportation and is designed to be a basic guide for initial actions at a HazMat incident.

DOT Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) Color Coding

Page Color Identifying Factor Information Contained (in column order)

Yellow ID Number ID Number, Guide Number, Product Name (if highlighted = poisonous effects)

Blue Product Name Name of Material, Guide Number, ID Number (if highlighted = poisonous effects)

Orange Guide Number Potential hazards (fire/explosion/health), Emergency actions (scene control, fire, spill/leak, first aid, special)

Green ID Number ID name, Initial isolation zone, Protective action distanceNo Color Plain Paper Instructions, definitions, & explanations

The primary objective of the ERG is to direct first responders to the appropriate guide page (Orange-bordered page) as quickly as possible on arrival at a HazMat incident.

The ERG also lists thousands of materials shipped under generic names such as Flammable Liquid N.O.S.

The Transport of Dangerous Goods Directorate of Canada publishes the Dangerous Goods Guide The "How To" instructions page of the ERG (page 1), provides guidance for identifying a material

through several cross-referenced indexes. The yellow-bordered pages (identification number index) of the ERG lists the UN/NA 4-digit

identification number (1st column) in numerical order, the material's proper material shipping name (2nd column), and ERG guide number (3rd column).

The blue-bordered pages (product name index) of the ERG lists material names (1st column) in alphabetical order, the ERG guide number (2nd column), and the UN/NA Identification number (3rd column).

The ERG contains "initial action" information on potential hazards (health, fire, explosion), preliminary emergency actions, fire instructions, leak/spill guidance, and first aid procedures.

Explosives are not listed individually in the ERG by identification number. Highlighted materials in the identification and name index of the ERG represent materials with

poison and poison inhalation risks and are also listed in the Table of Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances section (green-bordered pages).

start CANADIAN IERG The Transport of Dangerous Goods Directorate of Canada publishes the Dangerous Goods Guide to

Initial Emergency Response (IERG) and is similar to the ERG. The differences between the Canadian IERG and the ERG are different/additional placards such as

corrosive gas, miscellaneous dangerous goods (different symbol), and dangerous wastes. The IERG begins with a chart of placards and labels.

CANADIAN Dangerous Goods Guide to Initial Emergency Response (IERG) Color Coding

Page Color Identifying Factor Information Contained

Orange Product Name Guide Number, Product Identification NumberGreen Product ID Guide Number, Product Number

Yellow Guide Number Potential hazards (fire/explosion/health), Public Safety (PPE, evacuation, fire, spill/leak, first aid)

No Color Plain Paper Instructions, definitions, & explanations


Hazardous Materials for First Responders (2nd Edition) Study Notes The back of the Canadian IERG contains a Rail Car and Road Trailer Identification Chart which

helps determine the general guide based on the shape of the container. The Canadian IERG does NOT contain a Table of Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances

like the ERG, however, evacuation distances are listed in each guide for large spills and fires. end CANADIAN IERG

First responders should call CHEMTREC/CANUTEC if a phone number is not listed on shipping papers.

First responders should provide CHEMTREC/CANUTEC with name of caller/call-back number, location of incident, name(s) of material, shipper, and manufacturer, type of container, rail car/truck number, carrier's name, consignee, local conditions, and actions taken.

CHEMTREC provides immediate information on a material's properties, its hazards, and suggested control techniques, as well as serving as a communication link between other technical support and shippers.

It is the responsibility of the shipper, facility manager, or vehicle operator to report incidents to the Caost Guard's National Response Center (NRC).

CHEMTREC is ran by the Chemical Manufacturer's Association and works closely with DOT and the NRC.

Emergency contact with CHEMTREC does NOT fufill incident reporting requirements set forth in federal regulations for transporters.

Limitations of CHEMTREC/CANUTEC resources include: chemicals not on file, relevance of first responder information relayed, and only "general" tactical information.

Association besides CHEMTREC/CANUTEC that can offer assistance include: National Agricultural Chemical Association (NACA), Fertilizer Institute, LP-Gas Association, Chlorine Institute, and Compressed Gas Association.

The best source of information on a specific hazardous material is the manufacturer's data sheet (MSDS).

OSHA mandates the minimum content to be contained in an MSDS sheet. MSDS SHEET SECTIONS

I Manufacturer's Name/Address, Emergency Phone #, Information Phone #, & Signature/Date

II Common name, Chemical name, CAS #, OSHA PEL limit, ACGIH TLV limit, & Other exposure limits

III Boiling point, Specific gravity, Vapor pressure/density, Melting point, Evaporation rate, Water solubility, & Appearance/odor

IV Flash point, Flammable limits (UEL/LEL), Extinguishing agents, Special fire fighting procedures, Unusual fire/explosion hazards

V Stability, Incompatibility, Hazardous decomposition/by-products, Hazardous polymerization

VIRoutes of entry, Health hazards, Cacinogenicity, National Toxicological Program (NTC), International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) monographs, OSHA regulated, Signs/Symptoms, Medical conditions aggravated, & Emergency first aid

VII Spill/release procedures, Waste disposal methods, Handling/storage precautions, & Other precautions

VIII Respiratory protection, Ventilation, Protective gloves, Eye protection, Other protective clothing, & Work/hygienic practices

The name of the hazardous material can be found in Section II of an MSDS. U.S. MSDS sheets are not accepted in Canada because they are slightly different than Canadian

MSDSs. Most first responder identification training can be done at local commercial and industrial (fixed)

facilities. Information for pre-incident plans is usually gathered by first responders, however, they are typically

finalized by command staff. Hazardous materials that are manufactured, stored, processed, or used at a fixed facility are no

subject to regulations affecting transported materials.


Hazardous Materials for First Responders (2nd Edition) Study Notes The NFPA 704 system offers appropriate signal or alert that HazMat is present, identifies general

hazards and degree of severity for health, flammability, and reactivity, and provides immediate information to protect lives.

The NFPA 704 system does NOT identify specific chemicals present. The special hazards section of 704 placards (6-O'clock position), does not have a specified

background color, however, it is usually white. The last part of a first responder's scope of responsibility is recognition of container type,

identification of material, and transmission of the information found to appropriate authorities.

ATMOSPHERIC STORAGE TANKSShape/Name Description/Specifications

Ordinary Cone Roof Tank

Stores flammable, combustible, and corrosive liquids. Cone-shaped, pointed roof with weak roof-to-shell

seam designed to break if over-pressurized. Dangerous vapor space when partially full.

Floating Roof Tank

Large capacity: from 50,000 gallons to over 1,000,000 gallons.

Commonly used for flammable/combustible liquids (particularly petroleum products).

Roof floats on top of liquid, eliminating dangerous vapor space.

Fabric or rubber "tube" seal on floating roof provides weather-tight seal.

Lifter Roof Tank

Roof floats within a series of vertical guides, allowing only a few feet of travel.

Roof is either liquid- or fabric-sealed. Roof moves up and down with changes in internal

vapor pressure. Usually used to store volatile liquids.

Internal Floating Roof Tank

A combination of the cone roof tank and floaing roof tank.

Used to store flammable liquids. Contains a pan- or deck-type float that rides on the

products surface. Vents in top of cone roof allow excess pressure to

escape. Vents may be present on upper portion of the sides of

the tank.

Vapordome Roof Tank

A vertical storage tank with a giant bulge or dome on top.

The base of the dome contains a flexible diaphragm that moves into the dome with changes in internal vapor pressure.

Used for combustible liquids of medium volatility and some non-hazardous materials such as molasses and fertilizer blends.

Range in size up to 8,500,000 gallons. Copyright FireNotes, Inc® 2005 Unauthorized Duplication Prohibited Page 11 of 41


Horizontal Tank

Constructed of steel. Capacity from a few thousand gallons to 20,000

gallons. Commonly used for bulk storage fuel-dispensing

operations. Tanks supported by unprotected steel supports/stilts

may fail quickly in fire conditions.

LOW-PRESSURE TANKS

Spheroid Tanks

Designed to store liquid or gaseous products such as LPG, methane, propane, other light gases, and may also be used to store gasoline, crude oil, and domestic water supplies.

Capacity is 3,000,000 gallons or more. Pressure-relief valve located on top of tank. Spheroid tank may be contained within an outer shell,

resembling a normal vertical tank.

Noded Spheroid Tank

Substantially larger and flatter than a normal spheroid tank.

Contains bulging, ribbed sections on outside of tank. Held together by a series of internal ties and supports. Pressure relief valve located on top of tank.

PRESSURE STORAGE TANKS

Horizontal Tank

Readily identified by rounded ends. Capacities from 500 gallons to over 40,000 gallons. Found at facilities that dispense fuel gases to public. Commonly holds propane, liquid natural gas (LNG),

compressed natural gas (CNG), butane, ethane, ammonia, sulfur dioxide, chlorine, and hydrogen chloride.

Sphere Tank

Single shell, non-insulated tank. Capacity up to 600,000 gallons. Identified by round, ball-like appearance. Supported by series of concrete or steel legs. Usually painted white or a highly reflective color to

reduce heat, thereby reducing internal vaporization. Commonly used to store liquefied petroleum gases.

Cryogenic Tank

Insulated, vacuum-jacketed tank with safety relief valves and rupture disks.

Capacity from 300 gallons to 400,000 gallons. Pressure varies with product stored.



Underground Tank

Found primarily at gasoline service stations and large private garages.

Constructed of steel of fiberglass. Fill (usually indicated by a cover on ground) and vent

connections will be near the location of tank.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) is the federal agency that develops, publishes, and enforces regulations for the safe transportation of hazardous materials.

DOT regulation establish safety standards for packaging, loading, and hauling of HazMat. DOT in conjunction with the Transport Development Group (TDG), has overall regulatory authority

over HazMat shipments. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) regulates the possession, use, and transport of

radioactive materials. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) establishes requirements for transportation of

hazardous substances and wastes. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulates the health and safety of

persons involved with HazMat. The Department of Energy (DOE) regulates companies that produce power. The United Nations (UN) Classification System forms the basis for DOT regulations which

classify HazMat according to their primary danger. PLACARDS

Class Placard Description Products Information

1.1-1.3

1.1-Mass Explosion Hazard1.2-Projection Hazard1.3-Fire Hazard

1.1-Black powdered1.2-Detonating cord1.3-Propellant explosives

1.1-affects entire load almost immediately1.2-not a mass explosion hazard1.3-either minor blast hazard or minor projection hazard

1.4 No significant Blast Practice ammunition Explosion largely confined to package, no

fragmentation

1.5 Very insensitive Prilled ammonium nitrate

Has mass explosion hazard but little probability of detonation under normal transport

1.6 Extremely insensitive

Fertilizer-fuel oil mixtures

No mass explosion hazard, negligible probability of detonation or propagation

2.1 Flammable gas Propane See Chapter 3 "By the Numbers" section for details.

2.2 Non-flammable gas

Anhydrous ammonia, Oxygen

Non-flammable gas, non-poisonous compressed gas, liquefied gas, pressurized cryogenic gas, compressed gas in solution. See Ch. 3 "By the Numbers" for more.

2.3 Poisonous gas PhosgeneGas poisonous by inhalation, known to be toxic to humans, hazardous during transport. See Ch. 3 "By the Numbers" for more.



3 Flammable Liquids

Gasoline, kerosene, diesel

See Chapter 3 "By the Numbers" section for details.

4.1 Flammable Solids Magnesium Wetted explosives, self-reactive materials, readily combustible solids

4.2 Spontaneously Combustible Phosphorus

Pyrophoric material (liquid or solid) that reacts within 5 minutes of contacting air and self-heating materials

4.3 Dangerous when wet Calcium carbide

Liable to become spontaneously flammable or give off flammable/toxic gas at a rate > 1L/kg/hour

5.1 Oxidizers Ammonium nitrate Gives off oxygen

5.2 Organic peroxides Ethyl ketone peroxide

Organic compound containing oxygen in the bivalent -O-O- structure (considered a derivative of hydrogen peroxide) where hydrogen atoms are replaced with organic radicals

6.1 Poisonous ArsenicPoisonous materials other than gases, known to be toxic to humans and hazardous during transport

6.2 Infectious (etiological agent)

Rabies, HIV, Hepatitis B

Viable organism or its toxin that causes disease in humans or animals, includes Department of Health and Human Services agents and others that cause or may cause severe, disabling, or fatal disease

7 Radioactive materials Cobalt Materials having specific gravity greater than

0.002 microcuries/gram

8 Corrosives Sulfuric acid, sodium hydroxide

Liquid or solid that causes visible destruction or irreversible alterations to human skin or a liquid with a severe corrosion rate on steel or aluminum

9 Other regulated materials

Consumer commodities

Materials with anesthetic, noxious, or similar properties that cause extreme annoyance or discomfort, or hazardous wastes/substances per 49 CFR 171.8 to include elevated temperature materials

A UN HazMat Identification Number (UNID) is a 4-digit number assigned to each material listed in the DOT ERG.

The 4 essential pieces of information required to be "communicated" by shippers and carriers of HazMat include: Shipping Papers, Markings, Labels, and Placards.

DOT does not specify the type of document to be used as shipping papers for a HazMat. Shipping papers such as a bill of lading, waybill, or similar document can provide information about

a HazMat being transported. Hazardous waste shipments must be accompanied by a Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest

document.


Hazardous Materials for First Responders (2nd Edition) Study Notes Descriptions on a Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest must include: Proper shipping name, Hazard

class, Packing group, and quantity. Required information on shipping papers includes: Shipper name/address, Receiver

name/address, Proper shipping names for materials, UN/NA number, packing group, gross weight/volume, HazMat listed first on list, "X" or "RQ" placed before shipping name in HM column for HazMats, and Emergency response phone number.

SHIPPING PAPER IDENTIFICATIONTransport Mode Shipping Paper Name Location of Papers Responsible Party

Air Air Bill Cockpit PilotHighway Bill of Lading Cab of Vehicle Driver

Rail Waybill/Consist Engine or Caboose Conductor

Water Dangerous Cargo Manifest Bridge or Pilot House Captain or Master

DOT marking requirements for containers include: Proper shipping name, UN ID number, and name/address of consignee.

Container labels are simply small replicas of vehicle placards and may or may not have written text identifying the material.

DOT placards are used on bulk packages, freight containers, unit load devices (aircraft), motor vehicles, and rail cars.

Placards are NOT required for shipments of infectious substances (Class 6.2), ORM-D, limited/small quantity packages, or combustible liquids in non-bulk packaging.

A transport vehicle/container that contains non-bulk packaging with 2 or more HazMats may be placarded DANGEROUS.

The word "GASOLINE" may be used instead of "FLAMMABLE" or "FUEL OIL" instead of "COMBUSTIBLE" on a placard displayed on a cargo tank or highway transport.

Transport vehicles and freight containers that contain lading which has been fumigated or treated with a poisonous liquid, solid, or gas, AND is offered for transport by rail, must have a "FUMIGATION" placard attached on or near each door.

Some states do NOT require placarding of HazMat shipments if origin and destination are within the same state.

Dedicated railcars transport a single material (name of material painted on car). Manufacturer's name/logo may be painted on dedicated railcars and is usually the largest printing on

the container. White railcars with a horizontal red stripe and two vertical 3 foot red stripes on each end indicate

hydrogen cyanide, however, it can be shipped in a noncolor-coded car. Non-tank railcars include trailers-on-flatcars (TOFCs) and containers-on-flatcars (COFCs). Some boxcars contain alcohol burning heaters to keep material from freezing.

HAZMAT TRANSPORT VEHICLESCargo Tank Trucks

Shape/Classification Materials Carried Specs/Info

MC-306/DOT-406 (Atmospheric Pressure)

Flammable Liquids (Gasoline, Alcohol)

Combustible Liquids (fuel oil)

Division 6.1 Poisons

Liquid food products

Tank vapor pressure under 3 psi Elliptical aluminum tank Longitudinal rollover protection Valving/unloading control box under

tank Vapor recovery on right side and rear

(not all have vapor recovery) Manhole assemblies/vapor recovery

valves above each compartment.



MC-307/DOT-407 (Low-Pressure)

Flammables, corrosives, poisons

Chemicals with pressures under 40 psi at 70oF

Single or double top manhole assembly protected by a flash box (also provides rollover protection)

Circumferential rollover protection at each end

Single outlet discharge piping at midship or rear

Double shell with covered ring stiffeners (some have external ring stiffeners)

Fusible plugs, frangible disks, or "Christmas Tree" vents on top of tank

Drain hose from flash box down side of tank

Rounded ends Permanent ownership markings

MC-312/DOT-412 (Corrosive Liquid Carrier)

Corrosive Liquids

Usually Acids

Small diameter "cigar shape" Exterior stiffener rings Rear or middle top-loading/unloading

with exterior piping extending to bottom of tank

Splash guard around piping (serves as rollover protection)

Extra circumferential rollover protection at front of tank

Flange-type rupture disk vent inside or outside splash guard

Discoloration or painted area around loading/unloading area from corrosive (paint is corrosive-resistant)

Permanent ownership marks

MC-331 (High-Pressure Carrier)

Liquefied gases Propane Butane Anhydrous

ammonia

Large hemispherical heads on both ends

Bolted manhole on rear Guard cage around bottom

loading/unloading piping Uninsulated tank, single shell vessel Usually painted white Permanent markings such as

FLAMMABLE GAS, COMPRESSED GAS or manufacturer name

MC-338

Liquefied gases Liquid Oxygen

(LOX) Nitrogen Hydrogen

Carries gases that have been liquefied through temperature reduction

Large bulky double shell with heavy insulation

Ends are flat Copyright FireNotes, Inc® 2005 Unauthorized Duplication Prohibited Page 16 of 41


(Cryogenic Liquid Carrier) Carbon Dioxide

Loading/unloading station at rear or in front of rear dual wheels under tank

Permanent markings such as REFRIGERATED LIQUID or manufacturer name (i.e.-Air Products, Union Carbide)

Material name may be stenciled on tank

Compressed Gas Trailer (Tube Trailer)

Compressed gases

Air, Argon, Helium, Hydrogen, Nitrogen, Oxygen, refrigerant gases

Can NOT carry liquefied gases Several horizontal tubes on

trailer/intermodal unit Manifold enclosed at rear Permanent marking for

material/ownership (i.e.-AIRCO, Liquid Air)

Dry Bulk Carrier

Materials in dry bulk or slurry form

Large, sloping, V-shaped bottom unloading compartments

Rear-mounted, auxiliary-engine-powered compressor or power take-off air compressor

Exterior loading and bottom unloading pipes

Top manhole assemblies

Multiple carrier types (No Photo Available)

Elevated Temperature Carrier

Molten Material

Carriers include tank trucks or large metal pots on trailer

Carriers keep material molten for several hours

Marking of "HOT" will be affixed to carrier

Marked either ALUMINUM MOLTEN or MOLTEN SULFUR

Railroad Tank CarsShape/Classification Materials Carried Specs/Info

DOT-105, 109, 112, and 114(Pressure Tank Railcar)

Flammable/Non-flammable liquefied gases, poisons, and other hazardous liquids

i.e.-Ethylene oxide, anhydrous hydrofluoric acid, motor fuel antiknock compounds

Protective housing around manhole, valves, gaging rod, and sampling well

Can have shell capacity in excess of 30,000 gallons

Gas carried is actually 80% liquid

Pressurized tank cars carrying flammable gases are covered by a thermal jacket or protective coating.

Visual characteristics include valve enclosure at top and NO piping under car.

Ends of an insulated/jacketed car will be less rounded than single-shell car.

Flammable/combustible liquids, flammable solids, oxidizers, Division 6.1 poisons,

Also known as general service or low-pressure tank car

Not distinguishable from those carrying non-hazardous



DOT-103, 104, 111, 115(Non-Pressure Tank Railcar)

organic peroxides, molten solids, and corrosives

Also non-hazardous materials such as fruit juices, molasses, tomato paste, and tallow

material unless commodity name is present

May be lined, insulated, or single-shelled

Capacities may be in excess of 30,000 gallons

Distinguished from pressure cars by visible fittings or expansion dome

Tank railcars that carry corrosives are usually smaller.

Sulfuric acid cars are limited to 14,000 gallons and have no plumbing underneath (also have black band around car under dome)

May have up to 6 compartments

Cryogenic Tank Railcar

Argon Nitrogen Hydrogen Oxygen

Capacities from 15,000-30,000 gallons

Not transported completely full

Safety vent is set at 16 psi May be enclosed in a

boxcar

Intermodal Tank Containers

General Info

Designed to be used interchangeably with multiple modes of transportation (i.e. rail, highway, waterway)

Generally a cylinder enclosed at both ends with framework

Tube modules, compartmented tanks, and other shapes may be found in intermodals

Box type intermodal frames encloses the tank in a cage, while beam-type encloses only the ends of the tank

Capacity ordinarily does NOT exceed 6,340 gallons (Spec 51 up to 5,500 gal.)

Marked with initials (reporting marks) and tank number (on right side of tank)

Tank will display country code and four digit size/type code (first two number=container length/height, second two number=pressure range)

Common sizes codes of intermodal containers: 20 (20' x 8'), 22 (20' x 8'6"), 24 (20' x >8'6")



IM-101(NON-Pressure Intermodal

Container)

Working pressure of 25.4 to 100 psig Transports hazardous and non-hazardous materials Most common type of intermodal container (IM-

101/IM-102) Internationally know as IM Type 1

IM-102(NON-Pressure Intermodal

Container)

Working pressure of 14.5 to 25.4 psig Transports materials such as alcohols, pesticides,

resins, industrial solvents, and flammables with flash points between 32oF and 140oF

Commonly transports non-regulated materials such as food commodities

Internationally known as IMO Type 2

Spec 51/IMO Type 5(Specialized Pressure Intermodal

Container)

Working pressure of 100 to 500 psig Usually transports liquefied gases DOT classifies as Spec 51, known internationally

as IMO Type 5

Specialized Intermodal Containers

Cryogenic liquid tank containers carry refrigerated liquid gases argon, oxygen, and helium

Tube intermodal models carry gases in high-pressure cylinders (3,000-5,000 psi)

Bulk packaging refers to a package, other than vessel/barge, in which HazMats are loaded with no intermediate form of containment.

Common types of non-bulk packaging include: drums, boxes, bags, bottles, carboys, wooden/cardboard barrels, and portable tanks/bins.

Compressed gas cylinders range in size from pint (liter) size to railcar size. All approved cylinders with the exception of poison cylinders, contain safety-relief devices.

Safety Relief DevicesType Action

Spring Loaded Recloses after operationHeat-Fusible plugs Heat activated

Pressure-Activated Bursting disk completely empties container

There is no specific color-coding system in place for cylinders, however, manufacturers may have their own color-coding.

Nearly all military ordinance are designed to inflict great bodily harm and/or heavy property damage.

Military Symbols & Meanings

Class 1Mass

Detonation

Class 2Explosion

with Fragmentation

Class 3Mass Fire

Hazard

Class 4Moderate

Fire Hazard

Chemical Hazard

Apply no Water

Wear Protective Mask or

Breathing Apparatus

Canadian forces have 9 classes of explosives. The EPA regulates the manufacturing and labeling of pesticides. Pesticide labels must contain the signal words: DANGER/POISON, WARNING, or CAUTION.


Hazardous Materials for First Responders (2nd Edition) Study Notes DANGER/POISON labels for pesticides are used for highly toxic materials, WARNING for

moderately toxic, and CAUTION for low toxicity. EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE must appear on pesticide labels if the flash point of the material is

below 80oF. CHEMTREC can provide information on pesticides based on the EPA registration number (PCP # in

Canada). Information on pesticide labels may include: modes of entry into body (inhalation, absorption,

injection, ingestion), requirements for storage/disposal, first aid info, and antidotes. The DOT Office of Pipeline Safety regulates HazMat pipelines. Pipeline markers must be present at railroad crossings, and in sufficient numbers along the length of

the pipeline. Pipeline markers show the word WARNING and contain info describing transported commodity,

phone number/name of carrier. The EPA requires a warning label on any containers, transformers, or capacitors that contain

polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Methods for detecting HazMat include: observing container shapes, placards, labels, or

physical signs of leaking containers such as vapor, frost, and chemical reactions. Monitoring Equipment

Type Designed UseCombustible-Gas/Explosive Meter Measure concentration of flammable gas in air

Oxygen Meter Measures Oxygen concentration in air (oxygen-enriched/deficient)

Toxicity Monitoring Device

Detects presence of, and concentration of specific chemicalsTypes range from simple colormetric tubes to sophisticated devices

HazMat for First Responders (2nd Edition)Chapter 4 - Hazard & Risk Assessment

Test Review The first step in successful mitigation of an incident is recognizing that HazMat is present. Mitigation is defined as those actions taken to lessen the harm or hostile nature of an incident. "Immediate Concern" at an incident includes specific tasks (preventative measures) and can be

performed by the first responder with minimal or no risk. Primary objectives at an incident include specific "goal-oriented" tasks that can be identified by first

responders, but must be executed by personnel with more advanced training and equipment. Immediate concern tasks can be performed upon arrival at incident and require no special equipment. The General Emergency Behavior Model (GEMBO) includes: Identifying types of STRESS, and

predicting type of BREACH, type of RELEASE, dispersion pattern "ENGULF", length of exposure "CONTACT", and hazard causing the HARM.

Areas of concern for size-up include: rescue, exposure, confinement, extinguishment, overhaul, ventilation, and salvage.

Decisions to be made in regards to areas of concern include: presence of HazMat, estimation of harm without intervention, choosing response objectives, identifying action options, and evaluating progress.

Executing immediate concern tasks increases life safety. Immediate concern tasks include: isolating the area, denying access, evacuation/sheltering in place,

diking, diverting, eliminating ignition sources, and cooling tanks exposed to heat/fire.


Hazardous Materials for First Responders (2nd Edition) Study Notes The operational goal of an incident is termed the Primary Objective. First responders may identify the primary objective, however, personnel with more

training/equipment are generally needed to accomplish the objective. Examples of primary objectives include: extinguishing fire, stabilizing scene, controlling vapor

clouds, stopping leaks, and diking/damming. Allowing a fire to burn out is sometimes the most sound strategy. Successful completion of the primary objective depends on location/severity of incident, material

properties, container damage, resource availability, first responders limitations, and accuracy of tactics.

Strategic objectives are established after reviewing planning documents, technical data, and factors affecting the situation.

Strategic objectives are based on their ability to achieve them, to prevent further injuries/deaths, and to minimize further damage to property/environment.

Strategies are either defensive (confinement to a specific area), offensive (actions to control incident), or non-intervention (allowing incident to run its course).

Plugging a hole in a drum is an example of an offensive strategy. The decision making acronym IFSTA stands for Identify problem, Formulate objectives, Select

alternatives, Take appropriate action, and Analyze outcomes.

Incident Handling (IFSTA acronym)

Identify nature of problem

Where is incident in relation to exposures? What HazMats are involved? What hazard classes and quantities involved? Reactions with material possible? Liquid, solid, or gas? Fire involved? Container type and condition? Time elapsed? Personnel, equipment, extinguishing agents available? Private fire protection available? Weather conditions? What has already been done?

Formulate objectives

Put objectives in the form of a statement of what they hope to accomplish. Objective could be short term or long term.

Select alternatives/options

This step determines the plan of action and the resultant tactics. Options should initiate conclusion of the immediate emergency, ensure its

termination, and avoid creation of any new problems. How much loss can the community accept as a result of any proposed



actions?

Take action Implementation of the Tactical Plan. Orders have to be clear and concise.

Analyze outcomes Continually analyze progress of current tactical plan and address need for

alternative plan.

General Emergency Behavior Model (GEBMO)GEBMO evaulated 6 specific conditions related to an incident

STRESS

Defined as a stimulus causing strain (excessive tension/compression), pressure (force applied at right angles), or deformity (distortion by torque/twisting)

Almost 1/4 of all reported HazMat incidents are caused by container failure Common stressors include:

THERMAL-Excessive heat/cold, causing intolerable expansion, contraction, weakening, or consumption of container and its parts. May also increase internal pressure and reduce shell integrity.CHEMICAL-Uncontrolled reactions/interactions of contents (i.e.-two chemicals placed in same container)MECHANICAL-physical application of energy resulting in container/attachment damage (i.e.-crushing, abrading, scoring).

BREACH

Defined as stressed beyond its limits of recovery The 5 types of breaches include:

DISINTEGRATION-general loss of integrity (i.e.-glass bottle shattering/grenade exploding)RUNAWAY CRACKING-crack that rapidly grows, breaking container into two or more pieces (associated with closed containers such as drums/tank cars)ATTACHMENTS/CLOSURES OPENING UP-container attachments, valves, or relief devices open or break offPUNCTURE-usually a result of mechanical stress (i.e.-forklift puncturing drum)SPLIT OR TEAR-(i.e.-failure of welded seam or ripped seam on bag)



RELEASE

Most likely results in release of material The 4 ways containment systems release their contents include:

DETONATION-instantaneous and explosive release (also includes fragmentation, disintegration, or shattering of container)VIOLENT RUPTURE-immediately release of chemical or mechanical energy caused by runaway cracks, ballistic-like behavior or localized projection of container/contents, occurs within time frame of 1 second or lessRAPID RELIEF-fast release from safety relief devices, piping, or valving that occurs in a period of several seconds to several minutesSPILL/LEAK-slow release of material through holes, rips, or tears, occurring over several minutes to several days

ENGULF

Defined as dispersion of material Factors affecting dispersion of material include:

Physical/Chemical PropertiesWeather ConditionsDuration of ReleaseControl Efforts of Responders

The outline of dispersing HazMat is sometimes called the "footprint" Descriptions of "footprints" include:

HEMISPHERIC-semicircular or dome-shaped pattern of airborne HazMat partially in contact with ground or waterCLOUD-ball-shaped pattern of airborne HazMat that has risen above the ground or waterPLUME-irregularly-shaped pattern of airborne HazMat where wind/topography influences downrange courseCONE-triangular-shaped pattern of HazMat with point source at breach and wide base downwindSTREAM-surface-following pattern of fluid HazMat affected by gravity/topographyPOOL-flat and circle-shaped pattern of HazMat on surface of ground/water (no wind, no contour)IRREGULAR-irregular or indiscriminant deposit of HazMat (carried around by contaminated persons)

CONTACT

Time frames are related to contact of surrounding exposures by the HazMat The four general time frames for contacts (impingements) include:

IMMEDIATE-milliseconds to seconds (i.e.-deflagration, detonation, explosion)SHORT TERM-minutes to hours (i.e.-gas or vapor cloud)MEDIUM TERM-days to months (i.e.-lingering pesticides)LONG TERM-years to generations (i.e.-permanent radioactive source)

HARM

Defined as injury or damage caused by exposure to HazMat Factors that determine harm include:

TIMING OF RELEASE-speed of escaping material and length of exposureSIZE-size of area covered by releaseTOXICITY-relative level of harm

HazMat for First Responders (2nd Edition)Chapter 5 - Personal Protective Equipment

Test Review Personal protective equipment consists of SCBA and either structural firefighting, high temperature,

or chemical-protective clothing. Use of chemical protective clothing requires training above the first responder level.

EPA Established Protective Equipment LevelsLevel Use

Level A

Highest level of protection against vapors, gases, mists, and particles

Totally encapsulating (wearer and SCBA covered)

Level B

Protection against splashes Worn when vapor-protective clothing is not

required Specific types of gloves/boots are donned



depending on chemical

Level C Same as Level B suit, except other breathing

equipment may be used in place of SCBA (air purifying respirator)

Level D

Ordinary work clothes Not adequate for first responders Provides no respiratory protection and

minimal skin protection No single combination of protective equipment can protect against all hazards. Structural firefighting clothing is designed for protection from heat, moisture, and ordinary hazards

of structure fires. Full protective clothing is defined as helmet, SCBA, turnout coat/pants, protective boots/hood, and

gloves. Acids and bases can dissolve/deteriorate structural fire fighting gear, and gases can penetrate the

garment. Rubber or neoprene in boots, gloves, and SCBA masks can be permeated by chemicals and render

them unsafe. The manufacturer of chemical-protective suits must list chemicals the suit is compatible with. Chemical-protective clothing comes in re-usable (must be deconned/tested) and limited-use

(disposable) versions. Reusable chemical-protective clothing can retain some chemicals even after decon and "leach"

inward or outward days or even weeks later. Vapor-protective, support-function, and high-temperature suits do not allow body heat to escape in

addition to impairing wearer's mobility, vision, and communication. Liquid-splash-protective suits are made of the same type of material as vapor-protective suits,

however, they are NOT designed to protect against vapors or gases. Support-function suits may be full-encapsulating. Support-function suits may NOT be used against radiological, biological, or cryogenic

materials, against immersion in liquids, or in flammable, explosive, or hazardous chemical vapor atmospheres.

High Temperature ClothingType Use

Approach Suits High levels of radiated heat

Proximity Suits

Permit close approach to fires for performing rescues, fire suppression, and property conservation

Fire Entry Suits

Highly specialized garment for work in total flame environments for short periods of time

Protective Breathing Equipment

Type UseOpen-Circuit

SCBA Most commonly used Exhaled air vented to outside atmosphere Most allow 15-20 minutes of heavy work, some up to 45 minutes Positive pressure SCBA maintains a slightly increased pressure (above

atmospheric) in user's facepiece The four basic SCBA component assemblies include:

BACKPACK/HARNESS ASSEMBLY-holds cylinderAIR CYLINDER-cylinder, valve, and pressure gaugeREGULATOR-high pressure hose and low-pressure alarmFACEPIECE-low-pressure hose, exhalation valve (with harness-mounted



regulators), and head harness

Open-Circuit Airline

Airline attached to one or several large air cylinders connected to open-circuit facepiece, regulator, and egress cylinder

Enables travel up to 300 feet from regulated air source Provides greater mobility because no backpack is worn Not commonly used by fire service, more common with industry and special

HazMat cleanup companies Required 5 minute escape cylinder must not be used for "untethered" work, use

30 or 60 minute SCBA augmented by airline instead

Closed-Circuit SCBA

Durations from 30 minutes to 4 hours Contains small pure oxygen cylinder instead of air cylinder (weighs less) Recycles exhaled air by mixing with pure oxygen, allowing re-breathing of air

Air-purifying respirators are used to purify ambient air through a filter before inhalation. Air-purifying respirators should NOT be used during emergency operations, only in

controlled atmospheres where oxygen content is at least 19.5% Air-Purifying Respirators

Type Use

Particulate-Filtering

Provides protection against dusts and/or mists Filter constructed of fibrous material that traps particulates Different filters for specific chemicals

Vapor/Gas Removing

Provides protection against specific gases/vapors (i.e.-ammonia, mercury vapor) Removes contaminants through interaction of molecules within a granular, porous

material called sorbent (method of removal is called sorption) Some use catalysts that react with contaminant to produce a less toxic gas/vapor Divided into three classes:

CHEMICAL CARTRIDGEGAS MASKSPARTICULATE VAPOR/GAS-REMOVING

Powered Air-Purifying

Uses battery-operated blower to pass contaminated air through a product that removes contaminants.

Blower may be vehicle mounted and connected to the facepiece by a long flexible tube

Protective Breathing Equipment LimitationsWEARER LIMITATIONS EQUIPMENT LIMITATIONS AIR SUPPLY LIMITATIONS

PHYSICAL Physical Condition -sound

physical condition Agility -overcome

apparatus restriction of movement

Limited Visibility -reduces peripheral vision, fogging

Decreased Ability to Communicate-hinders voice communication

Increased Weight -adds 25-

Physical Condition of User -poorer condition = less air supply

Degree of Physical Exertion -more physical exertion = less air supply

Emotional Stability of User-



Facial Features -ability to get a good facepiece-to-face seal

MEDICAL Neurological

Functioning-good motor coordination

Muscular/Skeletal Condition-physical strength and size

Cardiovascular Conditioning-good cardiovascular shape

Respiratory Functioning -to maximize operation time

MENTAL Adequate Training in

Equipment Use-knowledgeable in use of equipment

Self-Confidence -belief in ability

Emotional Stability -maintain control in excited or high-stress situations

35 pounds to wearer Decreased Mobility -reduces

range of motion Inadequate Oxygen Levels-

air-purifying respirators can NOT be worn in oxygen deficient or IDLH atmospheres

Chemical Specific-air-purifying respirators can only be used to protect against certain chemicals

excitement = less air supply Condition of Apparatus -

minor leaks and poor adjustment of regulators = less air supply

Cylinder Pressure before Use-not filled to capacity = less air supply

Training and Experience of User-properly trained personnel can draw the maximum use of air supply

A doctor determines if individuals are fit to wear protective breathing apparatus. Conditions that put responders at risk when wearing respirators include: asthma, emphysema,

chronic lung disease, psychological problems (claustrophobia), physical deformities/abnormalities of the face, medication usage, and intolerance to increased heart rate (i.e.-heat stress).

Respirators need to be cleaned and sanitized after each use. The minimum level of protection can provided by consulting the ERG guide book's action guide

pages and health hazards emergency action section.


Hazardous Materials for First Responders (2nd Edition) Study NotesHazMat for First Responders (2nd Edition)

Chapter 6 - Command, Safety, and Scene ControlTest Review

Local emergency planning committees must address areas such as HazMat facilities, transportation routes, methods/procedures for handling HazMat incidents, methods to warn people at risk, HazMat equipment/information resources, evacuation plans, training of first responders, and exercising the LERP.

Canadian emergency plans are referred to as emergency measures organization (EMO) plans. Initial information received about an incident is called external communication, while information

received after responders arrive on scene is called internal communication. External communications begin with gathering information during pre-incident planning on HazMats

present. The telephone is the most commonly used medium for reporting an emergency. Information gathered by a dispatcher about an incident should include: location of incident, name,

phone, and location of caller, identity of substance, approximate quantity, weather conditions, number/proximity of persons threatened, brief description of events leading to and existing threats, summary of control actions, type of assistance needed, and call-back info.

Dispatchers should be included in first responder training sessions/exercises. "Internal Communication" begins when emergency personnel arrive on scene. Dispatcher's responsibilities during an incident include: establishing internal or external clear-line

communications with technical advisors, notifying mutual aid agencies, activating departmental procedures, and advising next-in-line supervisors and chief officers of incident.

Dispatchers must relay ALL information received without filtering, editing, deleting, or changing information.

On scene command personnel should talk directly to technical advisors when possible. CHEMTREC and CANUTEC should be used to provide information in the early stages of an

incident. An awareness level first responder's mission is to implement the jurisdiction's SOPs. Standard awareness level procedures include: recognizing HazMat is present, calling for appropriate

help, securing the area, surveying the incident from a safe distance, and determining the appropriate actions as recommended by the ERG.

In addition to awareness level tasks, operations level first responders must define the problem, design a defense, and direct execution of the IAP.

"Defining the Problem" at an incident includes: surveying condition of containers, estimating nature/extent of release, observing conditions, gathering/sharing info, predicting incident's future course, and estimating harm.

"Designing a Defense" includes: establishing defensive goals, identifying defensive tactical options, ensuring appropriateness of training/PPE of personnel to take action, and preparing for emergency decon.

"Direct Execution of the IAP" includes: establishing protective zones, activating IMS system, using PPE, carrying out defensive actions, evaulating/reporting incident progress, and performing emergency decon.

Required aspects of command structure for IMS includes: common terminology, modular organization, integrated communication, and a unified command structure.

Either the first person on the scene or the ranking individual of the first company on the scene should assume command.

The Incident Commander (IC) is responsible for the development, implementation, and documentation of the IAP.

The IC is responsible for establishing the site safety plan, implementing site security/control zones, designating a safety officer, identifying materials/conditions involved, implementing emergency operations, ensuring PPE is worn, and establishing decon plan and operation.

The safety officer is responsible for maintaining communications with IC, identifying hazardous situations, participation in incident planning, reviewing IAPs for safety, and identifying/correcting unsafe situations.


Hazardous Materials for First Responders (2nd Edition) Study Notes Size-up is the mental process of considering all available factors that will immediately affect the

incident during the course of operation, also called Hazard Assessment. Hazard assessment is a continual evaluation that starts with pre-incident planning and continues

through the course of the incident. Hazards assessment info gathered at the time of alarm includes: nature/location of call, equipment

responding, time of day, and weather. Additional info gathered when performing size-up includes: evaluating response route, reviewing

plans/sketches, noting arrival times of other units, noting exposure types/distances, reviewing hydrant/water supplies, making preliminary plans for apparatus placement, securing additional info from dispatch, and deciding if additional units are needed.

Conditions on scene that must be evaluated include life hazards, materials involved, path of fire/material travel, and actions already taken.

The three strategic goals in order of priority are life safety, environmental protection, and property conservation.

Modes of OperationMode Description

Non-Intervention

Responders take no direct actions Mode is selected when one or more of the following is present:

Facility or LERP calls for it based on pre-incident evaluationSituation is already beyond capabilities of respondersExplosions are imminentSerious container damage threatens mass release

When operating in non-intervention mode, first responders should:Withdraw to safe distanceReport scene conditions to dispatchEstablish scene control and initiate IMSInitiate evacuationCall for additional resources

Defensive

Responders seek to confine emergency to a given area without directly contacting materials

Defensive mode is selected when one or more of the following are present:Facility or LERP calls for it based on pre-incident evaluationResponders have training/equipment to confine incident to area of origin

When operating in defensive mode, first responders should:Report scene conditions to dispatchEstablish scene control and initiate IMSEstablish/indicate zone boundariesCommence evacuation if necessaryControl material spread by diverting and constructing dikes/dams to confineControl ignition sourcesCall for additional resources

Offensive

Responders take aggressive, direct action on the material, container, or equipment involved

Offensive actions are beyond the scope of first responders and must be conducted by highly trained HazMat personnel



HazMat Incident Levels (Criteria & Examples)

Criteria for Determining

Level

Extent of municipal, county, state, and federal involvement Level of expertise required Extent of evacuation Extent of injury/death

Level I Incident

Small fuel spill from automobile Leak from natural gas line on consumer side of meter Broken containers of "consumer commodity" containers such as paints, thinners,

bleach, swimming pool chemicals, and fertilizers (owner normally responsible for cleanup)

Level II Incident

Response Actions Chemical protective clothing used Diking and confining within contaminated areas Plugging/patching operations Sampling/testing unknown substances Various levels of decon performed

Examples Spill/leak that causes wide-spread evacuation Major accidents, spillage, or overflows of flammable liquids Spill/leak of unknown chemicals Extremely Hazardous Substances (EHS) involved Underground pipeline rupture Fire posing a BLEVE hazard Leaking, overturned tanker

Level IIIIncident

Response Actions Specialists from industry/governmental agencies Sophisticated sampling/monitoring equipment Specialized leak/spill control Large scale decon

Examples Evacuation extending across jurisdictional boundaries Incidents beyond control of local HazMat response team Incidents that activate federal response system

For safety purposes, all responders should be briefed on the immediate goal, who performs which task, operation completion time, how to call for help, escape routes, material's effects, and signs/symptoms of exposure.

Precautions to maximize safety include: avoid contact with vapor, mist, dust, and smoke, maintain safe distance (stay outside hot zone), use available shielding, and anticipate changes such as weather and delayed material reactions.

Factors that have bearing on the IAP include: weather, topography, water, occupancies, community transport systems, utilities, and zero energy state (locking down power/energy sources).

Container integrity, safety devices, leaking, and stability should be observed when looking for changes in container stability.

Examples of Ignition Sources

Internal combustion engines

Electric motors, switches, and controllers

Lighting equipment

Fuel-powered equipment Open/pilot flames

Electrostatic/frictional sparks

Heated metal surfaces

Smoking materials

Fuses, flares, torpedoes, lanterns

Radios, hand lights, pagers, PASS devices

The process for establishing the initial isolation distance at a HazMat incident is covered in the ERG (green-bordered pages) and is size-related (small or large).


Hazardous Materials for First Responders (2nd Edition) Study Notes To use the ERG, the material must be identified.

Initial Isolation ZoneEstablishing Zone Evacuee Handling

Station responder at approaches/refuse entry Activate local alarm devices Reroute traffic away from scene Put up physical barriers (i.e.-tape, rope,

barricades) Transmit warnings over PA systems Broadcast alert via media Stage responders adequate distance away

Decon evacuees if necessary Record evacuees' identities Perform triage/treatment

NOTE: performing triage/treatment of evacuees can reduce false claims of injury later.

The protective action zone is the area immediately adjacent to and downwind from the initial isolation zone.

Options for protective actions include: evacuation, protection-in-place, or combination of both.

Decision-Making Factors of Protective ActionsMaterial ConsiderationsToxicity, Quantity, Rate of Release, Possibility of Control, Direction of Spread

Environmental Conditions Wind Direction/Velocity, Temperature, Humidity, Precipitation, Topography

Population at Risk Population Density, Proximity, Warning/Notification Systems, Methods of Transport, Ability to Control, Special Needs

Evacuate means to move all people from a threatened area to a safer place. Protection-in-place means to direct people to go quickly inside a building and to remain inside until

the danger passes. Factors affecting protection-in-place include: material spreading to rapidly, material too toxic,

vapors heavier than air (people in high-rise), and unable to initiate evacuation (i.e.-health care, detention facility).

Vehicles are NOT as effective as protection-in-place as buildings. IFSTAs Acronym for Establishing Scene Control

Identify material name/ID numberFind corresponding name/ID number in green ERG pagesSize the spill (by container/amount)Take the distance from Table of Initial Isolation and Protective Distance in ERGApply appropriate protective actionseek additional information in ERG

Alternative names for "Hot" zones include: Restricted Zone, Exclusion Zone, and Red Zone. Alternative names for "Warm" zones include: Contamination Reduction Zone, Limited Access

Zone, and Yellow Zone. Alternative names for "Cold" zones include: Support Zone and Green Zone.

Scene Control Zones

Hot Zone

Area surrounding incident that is contaminated Area exposed to gases, vapors, mists, dusts, and runoff of material Extends far enough to prevent people outside the zone from suffering ill efects Work inside this zone is generally limited to HazMat Technicians (Intervention

Team)Warm Zone Area abutting the hot zone and extending to cold zone



Considered safe to enter without "special" protective clothing Zone is used to support workers in hot zone Decon takes place in this zone (decon corridor) Forward access point and safe haven located in this zone HazMat Control Officer is located in this zone

Cold Zone Encompasses the warm zone and is used to carry out all other support functions Command post, staging area, and triage/treatment is in this zone Safety officer, timekeeper, backup team, and equipment cache in this zone

A command post can be a predetermined location, a conveniently located building, or a radio-equipped vehicle in the cold zone.

It is NOT absolutely necessary that the command post be able to observe the scene, however, it is ideal.

A common identifier of a command post is a green flashing light. The staging area should be located in the cold zone where occupants cannot interfere with

operations.



HazMat for First Responders (2nd Edition)Chapter 7 - Tactical Priorities & Defensive Control Strategies

Test ReviewSteps on pages 170-171 have been omitted from notes

Tactical priorities place the greatest emphasis on life safety. The officer in charge of each assigned work group should develop tactical objectives to complete the

strategic objectives set forth by the IC. Tactical objectives are determined by the identity of the material, the material's potential harm, and

how much has escaped, including the container's condition. Categories of material identities include: known/poses a threat, known/poses no threat, and

unknown. Worst case scenario actions should include: controlling all ignition sources, protecting material from

heat, shock, or contamination, confining runoff, and avoiding contact. Stress on a container may cause no apparent damage, damage with NO material release, damage with

material release, and damage with material release and fire. The order in which tactical priorities must be carried out are 1) Rescue, 2) Exposure Protection, 3)

Fire Extinguishment, 4) Confinement, 5) Containment, and 6) Recovery. Rescue is ALWAYS the first tactical priority. If rescue is too time-consuming or dangerous, protection-in-place should be considered. Factors affecting rescue efforts include: nature of HazMat, incident severity, availability of proper

PPE, number of victims and their condition, time to complete rescue, and equipment needed. The IC must establish an escape plan and signal to initiate the plan prior to a rescue. Tactics for exposure protection include protecting people, the environment, and property not yet

directly involved. In terms of protecting the environment, the air, surface water, wildlife, water table, and land surface

should be considered. Lives or the environment must not be unduly compromised to save property. The third tactical priority at a HazMat incident may be fire extinguishment (if fire is present). Letting a HazMat burn is appropriate if personnel or environmental risks are too great (i.e.-

pesticides, flammable liquids). Burning spills should only be extinguished completely when flow of materials has been or can be

immediately controlled. When "shut-offs" cannot be completed immediately, hoselines/portable equipement can be used to

decrease the intensity of fire, permitting controlled burning at leak site. Pressurized gas fires should not be extinguished until the flow of gas can be stopped. Confinement is the process of controlling the flow of a HazMat spill and capturing it at a specified

location (primarily a defensive action). HazMat can be confined by building dams/dikes, catching it in another container, or redirecting it to

a remote location for collection (diverting). Some necessary tools for containment include: shovels (dams), salvage covers (catch basins), and

charged hoselines (diversion channels). Large or rapidly-spreading spills may require heavy construction equipment, floating booms, or

special sewer/storm drain plugs.


Hazardous Materials for First Responders (2nd Edition) Study Notes Confinement can be used for control of no only liquids, but dusts, vapors, and gases by covering

with a fine spray, earth, plastic sheets, or salvage covers. Some gases can be confined by absorption in a container of water. Confinement is dictated by material type, rate of release, speed of spread, personnel available,

tools/equipment available, weather, and topography. Containment is the act of stopping the further release of a material from its container. Containment is an offensive action performed at the HazMat technician level.

Containment Factors

Condition of Container Can container withstand operation? Will changes in material behavior affect container?

Material Properties Is containment proper if release happens? Will released material contact responders, if so what are risks? Is material changing states?

Rate of Release Can material be controlled before container is empty? Sufficient resources present for size of breach?

Incident Assessment Will leaking materials explode or react violently? Will containment devices hold until recovery operations end?

Recovery is the final priority at an incident and includes hazard removal and cleanup. First responders may be needed during cleanup to provide cooling streams, maintaining scene

control, or assisting with salvage. Defensive control measures are those which are used to contain and/or confine a material.

Defensive Control Actions

Absorption

Physical and/or chemical event occurring during contact between materials that have an attraction for each other

The bulk of material being absorbed enters the structure of the absorbing medium Diatomaceous earth, sawdust, and ground corn cobs are common absorbents

Confinement

Consists of diking, daming, diverting, and retaining Action taken to control flow of liquid HazMat away from point of discharge Dams may be used to permit surface water or runoff ro pass over the dam and hold

HazMat back Diverting away from gutters, drains, storm sewers, flood control channels, and outfalls

are common.

Dilution The application of water to a water-soluble material to reduce the hazard Effective dilution increases the overall volume and creates a runoff problem

Vapor Dispersion

Action taken to direct or influence the course of airborne HazMat Runoff must be confined and analyzed

Vapor Suppression

Action taken to reduce the emission of vapors at a HazMat spill by applying foam Water miscible materials such as alcohols, esters, and ketones, require alcohol-

resistant foam for suppression Foam drainage time is the time required for one-fourth of the total liquid solution to drain from the

foam. Foam expansion ratio is the volume of finished foam that results from a unit volume of foam

solution. The greater the expansion ratio of foam, the thicker the foam blanket. All foams, except fluoroprotein foams, should NOT be plunged directly into a spill. All Class B foams, except special foams made for acids and alkaline spills (no longer produced or

sold), may be used for both firefighting and vapor suppression.Copyright FireNotes, Inc® 2005 Unauthorized Duplication Prohibited Page 33 of 41

Hazardous Materials for First Responders (2nd Edition) Study Notes Water streams should not be used in conjunction with foam application. Foam can NOT seal vapors of boiling liquids (material must be below boiling point). If the film that precedes the foam blanket cannot be seen, as with AFFF, continue to re-apply until

spill is covered. Hydrocarbon fuels, such as crude oil, fuel oil, gasoline, benzene, naptha, jet fuel, and kerosene, are

petroleum based and float on water. Standard fire fighting foam can float on the surface of hydrocarbon fuels. Polar solvent fuels, such as alcohol, acetone, lacquer thinner, ketones, and esters, are flammable

liquids that are miscible in water. Polar solvents require special alcohol-resistant (polymeric) foams. Foam extinguishes and/or prevents fire by smothering (prevents air/flammable vapors from

combining), separating (intervenes between fuel and fire), cooling (lowers temperature of fuel and adjacent surfaces), and suppressing (prevents release of flammable vapors).

Foam expansion is the ratio of final foam volume to original foam solution volume. Foam concentrate is the raw foam liquid before introduction of water and air. Foam proportioners are devices that introduce the correct amount of foam concentrate into the water

stream to make the foam solution. Finished foam is the completed product after the foam solution reaches the nozzle and air is

introduced into the solution (aeration). Line proportioners and foam nozzles (also called foam makers) are designed to work together. Foams designed solely for hydrocarbon fires will NOT extinguish polar solvent fires at any

concentration. Low-expansion foams are also used for vapor suppression on unignited spills. Medium- and high-expansion foams are especially useful for basement, mine shaft, and subterranean

fires. Unignited spills require lower application rates because radiant heat, open flame, and thermal drafts

are not present to break down the foam. Fire fighting foam concentrate is manufactured with either a synthetic or protein base. Synthetic-based foams are made from a mixture of detergents, while protein foams are derived from

plant or animal matter. Subsurface injection is the process of injecting a fluoroprotein foam at the base of a storage tank and

allowing it to surface and extinguish the fire. Water from AFFF actually drains from the foam and rests on the surface of the fuel. Alcohol-resistant AFFF creates a membrane, rather than film, over the fuel, that acts as a

barrier to prevent attack of the solvent on the foam blanket.Foam Characteristics

Type Characteristics

Protein Chemically hydrolyzed (broken down) protein (animal) solids For hydrocarbon fires ONLY Must NOT be plunged into the fuel

Fluoroprotein

Essentially protein foams that have been fortified with fluorinated surfactants

CAN be plunged into the fuel Can be used with fresh or salt water Good water retention and excellent resistance to heat Not affected by freeze/thaw Can be stored premixed (short period of time) Maintains low viscosity at low storage/use temperatures Compatible with simultaneous use of dry chemical Can be made alcohol-resistant by adding ammonia salts suspended in

organic solvents (alcohol-resistive for about 15 minutes)FFFP Not affected by freeze/thaw

Can be stored premixed



Compatible with simultaneous use of dry chemical Available in alcohol-resistive form with same regular FFFP capabilities

AFFF

Premixable in portable fire extinguishers and apparatus water tanks Can be freeze-protected with non-flammable anti-freeze solution Good low-temperature viscosity Air-excluding film floats ahead of foam blanket, resulting in knockdown,

and foam blanket follows providing further insulation Alcohol-resistant formulas can be used on hydrocarbon and polar solvent

fires Alcohol-resistant AFFF can NOT be premixed

HazMat Vapor Mitigating

Designed solely for unignited spills of hazardous liquids No longer commercially available

Medium/High Expansion

Used to extinguish pesticide and concealed space fires, suppress fuming acid vapors, and fixed-extinguishing systems (industrial).

Not affected by freeze/thaw Attacks galvanized/raw steel on prolonged contact Use outdoors, generally not recommended due to wind

The two basic pieces of equipment needed to produce foam are foam proportioner and foam nozzle. Foam proportioners and foam nozzles must match to produce usable foam. Balanced-Pressure and Around-the-Pump proportioners are apparatus mounted units.

Foam Proportioners

Line Eductors

Simplest to use and least expensive No moving parts in the waterway Types: In-line eductor and Self-educting master stream nozzle Use Venturi principle to draft foam concentrate

Balanced-Pressure Foam concentrate line is connected to each discharge outlet Concentrate supplied by pump separate from main fire pump

Around-the-Pump Consists of small return line from the discharge side of pump back to the

intake side of the pump Rated for a specific flow

Nozzles designed to add air to the foam solution are called foam nozzles. The most effective appliance for the generation of low-expansion foam is the air-aspirating foam

nozzle. Standard fixed-flow fog nozzles are used to produce low-expansion, short-lasting foam, and can

NOT be used with protein and fluoroprotein foams or alcohol-resistant FFFP and AFFF foams. Automatic foam nozzles operate like fixed-flow nozzles, providing that the eductor is operated at the

inlet pressure for which it was designed (also requires nozzle to be fully open). High-expansion foam generators produce a high-air-content, semi-stable foam. The two basic types of high-expansion foam generators are the mechanical blower and water-

aspirating nozzle. Water-aspirating high-expansion foam nozzles are larger and longer than other foam nozzles. High expansion foam nozzles produce a medium expansion foam inside the nozzle before passing it

through a screen or series of screens at the end of the nozzle to produce high-expansion foam. The back of high-expansion foam nozzles is an open-design to draw in air. Mechanical blower foam generators resemble smoke ejectors and are typically associated with total-

flooding applications. The most common reasons for failure to produce quality foam include:

Failure to match eductor with nozzle flow (results in no pickup of concentrate Air leaks at fittings (loss of suction) Improper cleaning (clogged foam passages) Partially closed nozzles (higher nozzle pressure, hence, unmatched pressure) To long a hose lay on discharge side of eductor (excessive backpressure)


Hazardous Materials for First Responders (2nd Edition) Study Notes Kinked hose Nozzle too far above eductor (excessive elevation pressure) Mixing different types of foam concentrate in same tank (incompatibility)

HazMat for First Responders (2nd Edition)Chapter 8 - Incident Control Strategies & Tactics

Test Review Explosive materials are used in military applications and in mining, logging, construction, and

demolition operations. Explosives must be protected from open flame, excessive heat, friction, impact, electrical shock, and

chemical contamination. Decomposition of explosives is indicated by crystallized residue or internal contents leaking through

the exterior. A "cartridge" is a case that contains an explosive charge for blasting. Types of detonators include: fuse blasting caps and electric blasting caps. A number of explosives, principally blasting agents such as ammonium nitrate, fuel oil, certain

emulsions, slurries, and water gels, are shipped in bulk in special cargo trucks. Dynamite is packed in various paper or fiberboard cartridges.

Explosives PackagingCartridge Fiberboard boxLarge Cartridge Heavy-walled, spiral-wound fiberboard tubesEmulsions, Slurries, Water Gels Plastic tubes or paper cartridges

Detonators Fiberboard case (similar to dynamite box)

Black/Smokeless Powder

1-pound metal cans inside fiberboard cases (usually holds 50 cans)Larger shipments of Black Powder may be shipped in large metal kegs or in plastic bags within a fiberboard case.

Blasting Agents(i.e.-ammonium nitrate)

Multi-walled paper sack (similar to cement sacks)

Sacks used to ship explosives have a plastic liner to keep moisture out. For explosives incidents with NO fire, protect cargo, reroute bystanders, control ignition sources,

review shipping papers, visually inspect the load, and consult technical specialists. For explosives incidents involving fire, isolate the area, deny entry, and evacuate. DOT recommends that explosives fires NOT be attacked. The destructive power of an explosives blast is radiated equally in ALL directions. If explosives detonate, first responders should gain control of scene, isolate area, initiate rescue,

perform triage/treatment, and control fires that threaten remaining exposures. Copyright FireNotes, Inc® 2005 Unauthorized Duplication Prohibited Page 36 of 41

Hazardous Materials for First Responders (2nd Edition) Study Notes Runoff from explosives can cause long-term environmental threats. Generically, containers that hold compressed gases are called "pressure vessels". Chlorine is commonly found in one-ton cylinders at water treatment plants. The three basic containers for gases are pressure cylinders, pressure tanks, and pipelines. Pressure cylinders are manufactured in accordance to US DOT requirements. Pressure tanks are manufactured in accordance to API or ASME. Pressure tanks are most commonly found in fixed installations, but may be seen on motor vehicles

and railcars. All pressure cylinders and pressure tanks are made of steel except those for disposable and lift-truck

types which can be made of aluminum. All pressure cylinders/tanks, except those containing poison gases (i.e.-methyl bormide, hydrogen

cyanide) or some disposable types, must have some type of pressure-relieving device. The most common type of compressed-gas-carrying pipeline is those which carry municipal natural

gas. Industrial gases such as oxygen, anhydrous ammonia, and hydrogen, may be transported through

pipelines. Questions to ask for emergencies involving gases include: What gas is involved?, Type/size of

container?, Mechanical damage?, Leak?, Fire?, Flame impingement?, Availability of water?, Can supply valve be shut off?

Gas emergency procedures include: Executing rescues, Use ERG for evacuation distances, Evacuate downwind, Set up unmanned portable master streams, Deny access until specialists arrive.

The primary objective for all gas leaks to shut off the flow of gas. The immediate concern when fire is involved in a non-flammable gas leak is to protect exposed

tanks by cooling. The immediate concern with flammable gas leaks involving fire is to prevent ignition With toxic gases, such as chlorine or methyl bromide, a larger isolation area should be established. With LPG leaks, ignition sources up to 1/2 mile away should be considered because vapors are

heavier-than-air and can flash back great distances. For gas leaks with fire/flame impingement it is ideal to direct large quantities of water onto the sides

of the tank. Flame impinging on a vapor space of a tank is especially dangerous and should be cooled with large

quantities of water. If a sheen of water is NOT seen rolling down the side of the tank, it is being converted to steam too

quickly and is ineffective. Streams on tanks must be directed at each side to maximize total coverage of tank shell. Never extinguish flames exiting a pressure-relief device. The sharper the pitch of sound from a pressure-relief device, the greater the pressure. Pinging, popping, or snapping are indicators of tank metal being softened by heat (stretching). If dry spots are present on a tank during water application, cooling is insufficient. Bulges or bubbles on tank surfaces indicate localized heating in the vapor space. For poisonous gas leaks without fire, the immediate concern is protect life safety and exposures. Poisonous gas leaks should not be plugged by first responders. Flammable/combustible liquid tanks such as large-capacity highway tanks trucks, rail tank cars,

industrial storage facilities/processes or pipelines, are NOT prone to BLEVE. The most common containers for flammable/combustible liquids are metal cans. Metal cans carrying flammable/combustible liquids are usually packaged in cardboard boxes. Pails (about 5 gallons) of flammable/combustible liquids are normally delivered on wood pallets. Drums for flammable/combustible liquids, such as bulk oils, thinners, and cleaning solvents, are

usually made of metal, but some are plastic. DOT strictly forbids flammable/combustible liquids from being shipped in glass containers. DOT refers to tank trailers, tank trucks, and rail tank cars as bulk containers. Construction of highway containers may be steel, stainless steel, or aluminum (most used). On- and Off-loading of flammable/combustible liquid tanks is generally performed at the bottom of

the tank, while railcars are usually top-loaded and bottom un-loaded. Most new highway tankers have vapor recovery lines. Copyright FireNotes, Inc® 2005 Unauthorized Duplication Prohibited Page 37 of 41

Hazardous Materials for First Responders (2nd Edition) Study Notes DOT regulates all US pipelines except those on the consumer's property. The primary objective for all flammable/combustible liquid spills is to stop the flow of fuel. The immediate concern for spilled flammable/combustible liquids without fire is preventing ignition

of the fuel (with fire, cool tank and exposures). Flammable/combustible liquid fire tactics include: lay initial hoselines, establish continuous water

supply, protect exposures, notify additional resources, evacuate, isolate, control area, establish ICS system, and control flowing liquid material.

Accidents involving Class 4 materials are relatively rare. Tubes, pails, steel/fiberboard drums, cardboard boxes, and bags are used for non-bulk packaging of

Class 4 materials (flammable solids, spontaneously combustible, dangerous when wet). Class 4 containers may be sealed with an inert medium that excludes air from the material. White phosphorus and sodium (class 4) are shipped in railroad tank cars. Actions for emergencies involving class 4 materials include: securing scene, establishing zones,

evacuation, and calling for technical help. Metal powders are flammable solids that ignite by friction. Explosives that are wetted to suppress explosive properties are Division 4.1 flammable solids. The immediate concern of flammable solid spills without fire is preventing ignition (with fire, cool

exposures). The primary objective of flammable solids without fire is to isolate/confine the material (with fire,

extinguishment or controlled burning). Class D dry powders are special extinguishing powders used on small metal fires and are applied by

hand, scoop, shovel, or extinguisher (should NOT be used on reactive metals). Spontaneously combustible materials are also called pyrophoric materials (ignite in contact with air)

and can be liquids or solids. The immediate concern for spontaneously combustible (pyrophoric) materials without fire is keeping

them wet (with fire, protect exposures). Magnesium phosphide becomes spontaneously flammable when contacting water. The best attack for Dangerous when Wet materials involved in fire is NO attack. Most Division 5.1 oxidizers, such as perchloric acid, is non-combustible but will accelerate the

burning of combustible materials. Some organic peroxides are shock sensitive, heat sensitive, and/or light sensitive (explosion hazard). Common packaging for oxidizers and organic peroxides is plastic-lined, multi-ply paper bags. Oxidizers may also be packaged in metal tins within fiberboard, plastic, and metal drums. Small organic peroxide containers are vented. Hydrogen peroxide tank cars are made of aluminum. Oxidizing materials can react violently with no warning, to friction and heat. The immediate concern for spilled oxidizers without fire is isolating them from combustibles (with

fire, protect exposures). Organic peroxides are especially prone to ignition. Some organic peroxides are kept refrigerated because of their low self-accelerating decomposition

temperatures (SADT). Division 6.1 poisons include agricultural pesticides, cyanides, and some exotic rocket fuels. Division 6.2 etiological agents include AIDS, rabies, and botulism. Infectious substances are packaged in vials that are measured in ounces (grams) and overpacked in

strong containers. The greatest danger with poisonous substances is the health threat. Poisons can cause harm through physical contact, inhalation (vapors or products of combustion), or

by contact with runoff/contaminated clothing. The immediate concern of spilled poisons with/without fire is confining the spread of poison. Solid poisonous materials can be confined by covering with salvage cover or plastic sheet. Poisonous substance fires must be fought from upwind. Most infectious substances will be found in and around hospitals, laboratories, and research centers. Regulated medical wastes (biomedical symbol on bag) are included with the infectious substances

under DOT regulations. Bleach will kill an infectious substance, as will heat from flame. Copyright FireNotes, Inc® 2005 Unauthorized Duplication Prohibited Page 38 of 41

Hazardous Materials for First Responders (2nd Edition) Study Notes The immediate concern of spilled infectious substances with/without fire is to protect life safety and

confine spread of material. The primary objective of spilled infectious substances with/without fire is to isolate the area, deny

entry, and let it burn (with fire). Centers for Disease Control (CDC), in addition to CHEMTREC/CANUTEC, can serve as resources

for infectious substance incidents. Radioactive materials are those which spontaneously emit ionizing radiation. Alpha radiation is the least penetrating because of its weight. Alpha radiation travels only a few inches in air but can be ingested or inhaled. Clothing or human skin can stop alpha radiation. Beta radiation particles will travel several yards in air and can penetrate skin and clothing. Aluminum foil will provide shielding against beta radiation particles. Gamma radiation (similar to X-rays) is extremely penetrating and travels at the speed of light,

requiring dense materials for shielding. Low-level commercial radioactive shipments are sent in Type A packaging such as cardboard boxes,

wooden crates, metal drums, and cylinders for compressed radiological gases (i.e.-xenon). Measuring devices, such as radiography instruments and soil density meters, contain radioactive

materials and technically may be considered Type A packaging. Radiopharmaceuticals are radioactive material containing medicines that are usually shipped in small

quantities via air due to their short half life (degradation time). Type B packaging is the strongest type of radioactive material packaging and is used for highly

radioactive shipments. Type B radioactive packaging is made of steel-reinforced concrete casks, lead pipe, and heavy-gauge

metal drums. Materials carried in Type B radioactive packaging include: fissionable material, high-grade raw

material, nuclear fuels (new and spent), and highly radioactive metals. Time, distance, and shielding are three ways to protect against radiation exposure. Dose Rate X Exposure Time = Total Dose (Radiation). Corrosives (acids or bases) are materials that corrode, degrade, or destroy human skin, aluminum, or

steel. Bases are also called caustic and alkaline. Fiberboard drums and multi-layered paper bags are used to ship acid materials and caustics in dry

form. Wax bottles are used to store hydrofluoric acid because it also attacks glass. Intermodal portable tanks, tank trucks, railroad tank cars, barges, and pipelines are used to transport

bulk shipments if corrosives. Corrosives can weigh up to twice as much as an equal amount of water. The immediate concern for corrosive spills without fire is to confine the spread and NOT dilute the

material (with fire, confine and protected exposures). Controlling (dense) vapors from corrosive spills is considered part of confinement. The primary objective for corrosive spills with/without fire is to shut off flow, isolate area, and deny

entry. For flammable corrosives, consider ignition sources. Smoke from burning corrosives can permeate fire clothing.



HazMat for First Responders (2nd Edition)Chapter 9 - Decontamination Techniques

Test ReviewSteps on pages 208-209 have been omitted from notes.

The spread of contaminants beyond the hot zone is termed secondary contamination. Contamination is the transfer of a HazMat to persons, equipment, and environment in greater than

acceptable quantities. Exposure is the process by which people, equipment, and the environment are subjected to or come

in contact with a HazMat. The magnitude of an exposure is dependent on the duration of the exposure and the concentration of

the HazMat. Secondary contamination can come from workers' clothing/tools and air currents/runoff. Decontamination is the removal of contaminants from workers' PPE and tools. Decontamination occurs in the warm zone decontamination corridor that runs from the hot zone to

the cold zone. Methods of decontamination include: dilution, absorption, chemical degradation, and

isolation/disposal. Dilution is the decon process of using water to flush the contaminant from the contaminated victim

or object. Dilution is an advantageous option of decon because of its accessibility, speed, and economy of

using water (water may cause reaction with some contaminants). Absorption is the process of picking up a liquid contaminant with an absorbent (inert material). Examples of absorbents include: soil, diatomaceous earth, vermiculite, and sand. An absorbents' disadvantage is that it does not alter the HazMat. Chemical degradation is the process of using another material to change the chemical structure of a

HazMat. Commonly used chemical degradation chemicals include: household bleach (calcium hypochlorite),

isopropyl alcohol, hydrated lime (calcium oxide), household drain cleaner (sodium hydroxide), baking soda (sodium bicarbonate), and liquid detergents.

Using chemical degradation can reduce cleanup costs. A disadvantage of chemical degradation for decon is the time it takes to pick a chemical to match the

HazMat. Chemical degradation decon is NOT used on people. Decontamination sites should be selected according to accessibility, surface material, lighting,

drains/waterways, water, and weather. Crucial time periods that make decon accessibility important are travel time in hot zone, time alotted

in hot zone, travel time back to decon, and decon time. Copyright FireNotes, Inc® 2005 Unauthorized Duplication Prohibited Page 40 of 41

Hazardous Materials for First Responders (2nd Edition) Study Notes Decontamination sites should ideally slope toward the hot zone. A hard, non-porous surface is best for decon (prevents ground contamination). A cover or tarp should be used as a base for decon whether the surface is porous or not. Avoid locating decon sites near storm/sewer drains, creeks, ponds, ditches, and waterways. Weak hydrochloric acid solutions are sometimes used to neutralize caustic materials, while sodium

carbonate solutions may be used to neutralize acids. Decon sites should be set up upwind of the hot zone. The decontamination corridor should be established before any work is done in the hot zone. Wading pools may be used for catch basins in decon sites. A recovery drum/container and plastic bags are needed at the decon area to store contaminated

items/tools. A low-volume, low-pressure hoseline, such as garden hose is ideal for decon. Regardless of PPE worn by decon personnel, chemical gloves must be worn. Emergency decontamination is the physical process of immediately ridding dangerous contaminants

from individuals and is used when special PPE fails, first responders accidentally get contaminated, and for victims with immediate medical needs.

With emergency decon, there is NO regard for environment or property. SCBA and undergloves should always be the last items off during decon (breath air until end). "Gross Decon" and "Emergency Decon" are sometimes used synonymously, however, gross decon

takes place as the first step in a series of decon procedures, while emergency decon usually takes place early in an incident before a basic decon has been set up.

Emergency decon may be needed even after basic decon has been set up (i.e.-responder falls into acid).

A portable shower can be used for emergency decon.


Documents

HazMat for First Responders (2nd Edition) · Web viewHazMat for First Responders (2nd Edition) Chapter 2 - Properties of HazMat Test Review HazMat may be elements, compounds, or mixtures