HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (HAZ MAT)
Note: For more extensive technical guidance see Department SOPs in section 2100. The following actions shall occur on all HAZ MAT incidents.
Always be aware of wind direction, remain uphill and upwind, and pay close attention to the nature of the call
- DECIDE
- Determine presence of hazardous material(s): see it, dead vegetation, placarding, type of container, markings, symbols, and/or victims/patients
- Estimate potential for harm without intervention: EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDE, HAZ MAT training, and on-scene technical support
- Choose response options: do nothing, call HAZ MAT Team, set up emergency decontamination and initial hot, warm, and cold zones
- Identify best option: done by analyzing all information gained throughout the incident; at a minimum a hot, warm, and cold zone shall be established, as well as emergency decontamination if patients are present or personnel are required to enter the hazardous environment
- Do best option: this is the tactic that requires the least involvement, while mitigating the hazard or preparing the scene for additional response apparatus due to the magnitude of the incident
- Evaluate: if plan is working continue, but if not, revisit response options and correct them
- Members shall operate at their level of knowledge, skills, and abilities as provided for in awareness, operations, technician, or specialist training.
RESPONSE TO UNKNOWN CHEMICAL AGENTS WITH PATIENTS
- Upon arrival at an unknown substance with victims, the following actions must take place:
- Assure all personnel are in proper PPE and respiratory protection
- Establish water supply
- Establish minimum of one 1-¾” line for emergency decontamination
- Determine number and signs exhibited in victims
- Request additional assistance as needed
Note: For more extensive technical guidance see Department SOPs in section 2100. The following actions shall occur on all HAZ MAT incidents.
Always be aware of wind direction, remain uphill and upwind, and pay close attention to the nature of the call
- DECIDE
- Determine presence of hazardous material(s): see it, dead vegetation, placarding, type of container, markings, symbols, and/or victims/patients
- Estimate potential for harm without intervention: EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDE, HAZ MAT training, and on-scene technical support
- Choose response options: do nothing, call HAZ MAT Team, set up emergency decontamination and initial hot, warm, and cold zones
- Identify best option: done by analyzing all information gained throughout the incident; at a minimum a hot, warm, and cold zone shall be established, as well as emergency decontamination if patients are present or personnel are required to enter the hazardous environment
- Do best option: this is the tactic that requires the least involvement, while mitigating the hazard or preparing the scene for additional response apparatus due to the magnitude of the incident
- Evaluate: if plan is working continue, but if not, revisit response options and correct them
- Members shall operate at their level of knowledge, skills, and abilities as provided for in awareness, operations, technician, or specialist training.
RESPONSE TO UNKNOWN CHEMICAL AGENTS WITH PATIENTS
- Upon arrival at an unknown substance with victims, the following actions must take place:
- Assure all personnel are in proper PPE and respiratory protection
- Establish water supply
- Establish minimum of one 1-¾” line for emergency decontamination
- Determine number and signs exhibited in victims
- Request additional assistance as needed
