Emergency and Disaster Response To Chemical Releases: Technician Level Training

Emergency
and Disaster Response to
Chemical Releases
Technician Level Training
29 CFR 1910.120(q)
Spill Response
Module 10
Emergency and Disaster Response to Chemical Releases
This page left blank intentionally.
ÓHMTRI Spill Response
January 06 Page 102
Table of Contents
Acronyms Used in This Module................................................................5
Overview ..................................................................................................7
Terminal Learning Objective ....................................................................7
Enabling Objectives .................................................................................7
Introduction ..............................................................................................9
Levels of Response .................................................................................9
Response Guidance .............................................................................9
Prepare a Plan of Action........................................................................10
Handling Of Drums or Containers ..........................................................11
Handling Drums or Containers That Are Pressurized or Bulging.....12
Handling Open and Deteriorated Drums .........................................12
Transferring Flammable or Combustible Liquids .............................12
Using Overpack or Salvage Drums .................................................12
Drum and Tank Repair Plug and Patch Operations.............................14
Absorption Methods ...............................................................................16
Floor Dry .............................................................................................16
Sand ...................................................................................................17
Diatomaceous Earth (SolidASorb)....................................................17
Polypropylene.....................................................................................17
Hazorb ................................................................................................17
Vermiculite ..........................................................................................17
Activated Carbon ................................................................................17
Spill Pillows.........................................................................................18
Neutralization .........................................................................................18
Neutralization Agents..........................................................................19
GelForming Agents...............................................................................19
Vapor Suppression ................................................................................20
Foam Blanketing Methods ..................................................................20
Vapor Barrier Sorbent (VBS) Blankets................................................20
Activated Carbon ................................................................................21
Water Spray or Fog ............................................................................21
Safety Considerations for Response and Spill Cleanup ........................21
Corrosives...........................................................................................21
Sodium Hydroxide ...........................................................................22
Anhydrous Ammonia .......................................................................22
Sulfuric Acid ....................................................................................22
Hydrochloric Acid.............................................................................22
Nitric Acid ........................................................................................23
Any Acid ..........................................................................................23
Flammable Liquids..............................................................................23
RCRA (Hazardous Wastes) ...................................................................24
Toxins and Pesticides.........................................................................24
Compressed Gases and Cryogenic Liquids........................................24
Summary................................................................................................25
Review Questions ..................................................................................28
January 06 Page 103
January 06 Page 104
Acronyms Used in This Module
AFFF Aqueous FilmForming Foam
EPA Environmental Protection Agency
ICS Incident Command System
MEK Methyl Ethyl Ketone
NIOSH National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
PPE Personal Protective Equipment
PVC PolyVinyl Chloride
psi pounds per square inch
RCRA Resource Conservation Recovery Act
SCBA SelfContained Breathing Apparatus
SOP Standard Operating Procedures
January 06 Page 105
January 06 Page 106
Overview
Spill containment and remediation activities shall be directed in such a
way that the protection of human life, health, and safety is paramount.
The other priorities to be considered are the prevention of environmental
harm and the protection of property. Some of the general guidelines in
handling an emergency response include use of the Incident Command
System, using proper PPE, incorporation of the buddy system,
designation of a Safety Officer, following the ten steps to a safe
response, and use of appropriate decontamination procedures.
Terminal Learning Objective
Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to implement
procedures used in disaster response to releases and spills of
hazardous materials.
Enabling Objectives
Based on the information presented in the classroom and in the
participant guide, the participant will be able to:
1. List the factors that affect the behavior of a released hazardous

material.
2. Describe the dangers of working with pressurized drums.
3. Describe the purpose and procedures for using an overpack
drum.
4. List common absorbents available and their advantages and
disadvantages.
5. Describe methods used to reduce the amount of toxic and
flammable vapors at a spill.
6. List and discuss the hazards of several corrosives commonly
used in industry.
January 06 Page 107
January 06 Page 108
Introduction
Because of the potential risks of fire,
explosion, chemical reactions, and
release of gases and vapors, it is
imperative that proper methods and
procedures are used to handle spills
from containers of hazardous materials.
This section includes conditions to be
alert for and to be considered in
approaching and handling containers, as
well as information on containing and
controlling spills of hazardous materials.
Spill containment and remediation activities shall, by necessity, be

determined and directed by the Incident Commander at the scene of the
incident. The coordinator will base activities on the circumstances
current to the incident. However, these activities will be directed
according to the following priorities:
1. The protection of human life, health, and safety.
2. The mitigation of environmental harm.
3. The protection of property.
Levels of Response
A response to a hazardous materials spill should be limited when
possible to defensive actions. Defensive actions are actions that do not
allow the responder or the responder's PPE to come into direct contact
with the released material.
Response Guidance
Teams should observe the following general guidelines when handling
an emergency response to a spill of a hazardous substance:
· Use the Incident Command system (ICS).
· Identify, to the extent possible, all hazards.
· Get help from specialist employees who can give technical advice
or assistance.
· Use proper personal protective equipment.
· If possible, do not come into direct contact with the hazardous
substance.
· Use SCBA unless air monitoring shows a decreased level of
protection is acceptable.
January 06 Page 109
· Work in teams of two or more: the buddy system.
· Have backup personnel with equipment on standby.
· Designate a safety official.
· Maintain communications with other members of the team
through eye contact, hand signals, or voice.
· Maintain contact with the Incident Commander or Site Safety
Officer.
· Use appropriate decontamination procedures.
There are four factors that affect the behavior of the released hazardous
material:
1. The quantity of the hazardous material.
2. Inherent properties of the material and of the container.
3. Natural laws of physics and chemistry.
4. The environment, including the physical surroundings and the

conditions (ventilation, sources of ignition, etc.).
Consider each of these factors as the hazards are identified and as a
plan of action is prepared in response to spills.
Prepare a Plan of Action
In preparing a plan of action, the consequences of
additional spills, leakage, and other incidents that
can aggravate the situation need to be considered.
If a drum has failed, it is likely that other drums and
containers in the area may have failed or are about
to fail. Each step in the response needs to be
planned carefully. Accidents are most likely to occur
when drums and containers are being handled for
the first time in an emergency.
From data obtained during an initial inspection, determine:
· The immediate hazards and the response required based on the
inherent properties of the spilled material and of the container.
· The potential for additional hazards and the response required.
· The number and size of drums, tanks, or containers that have
leaked or are broken (total quantity of material released).
· The number of drums or containers that need to be moved to
complete the cleanup.
January 06 Page 1010
· The environment that the drums, tanks, or containers are in,
including the physical surroundings and the conditions
(ventilation, sources of ignition, etc.).
· Develop a plan based on the results of the above to:
o Procedures based on hazards likely to be encountered.
o Equipment and supplies required.
o Number of drums or containers to be moved.
o Methods for moving drums or containers.
o Number of responders required.
o Number and type of support personnel required.
o Levels of protection required by responders and support
personnel.
o Rescue plan in event of failure.
Handling Of Drums or Containers
In responding to an emergency, move drums or containers for only these
reasons:
· To gain access to other drums or containers that are leaking or
failing.
· To prevent injury to responders and support personnel because
of the way the drums or containers are stored or located.
· To prevent reaction with spilled or leaking materials.
Before handling drums or containers,
consider the consequences of
additional spills, leakage, or an
accident occurring. Salvage or
overpack drums and absorbent
material should be available and if
additional spillage is likely, a dike
should be built around the drum or
container to contain the liquid.
Carefully plan and consider all
information available before moving drums or containers. Consider
proper lifting and moving techniques. Moving drums or containers
manually in emergency situations is unfortunately a common practice. It
puts the worker in close contact with heavy drums or containers that are
often contaminated with spilled or leaking chemicals.
Extra precautionary measures need to be taken when drums or
containers are not sealed or are damaged. Leaks in drums or containers
should be stopped by moving and rotating the drum until the leak is
above the level of the liquid. The spilled material can be cleaned up,
then the damaged drum can be patched and/or placed into an overpack.
Handling Drums or Containers That Are Pressurized or Bulging
If handling is necessary, exercise extreme caution and use a grappler
unit designed for explosive containment. As a minimum a worker must
use EPA Level B protection with properly taped seams. These drums or
containers are extremely dangerous. If pressure is to be vented, use
remote equipment if possible. If not, use the maximum level of
protection and loosen the smallest bung above the liquid level with a
nonsparking tool.
Handling Open and Deteriorated Drums
If the drum cannot be moved without

danger of it breaking open,
immediately transfer contents to a
good drum using a transfer pump.
Most pumps, designed for moving
flammable liquids, will move a
minimum of 55 gallons of any type of
liquid. If possible, use pumps
designed for the class of liquid to be
moved. If the liquid is unknown or
highly contaminated, choose a simple pump that can be easily
decontaminated or disposed of inexpensively.
Transferring Flammable or Combustible Liquids
Bond the drums together and then ground the drums when transferring

flammable or combustible liquids. This is to prevent development of a
static charge. An uncontrolled discharge could produce a static spark of
sufficient energy to ignite vapors. Always start the bonding/grounding
process at the full drum, then to the receiving drum, and then to ground.
Remove the bonding/grounding lines in the same order as installing
them.
Using Overpack or Salvage Drums
Overpack or salvage drums are heavyduty, openended drums with a

capacity of approximately 85 gallons. The purpose of these drums is to
contain a damaged or a repaired drum and its contents. There are
several types of overpack drums designed to contain different materials.
The most common is an epoxy coated 85gallon steel drum. It has a
removable head that contains a bung that can be used to vent a closed
drum. The head is secured to the body of the drum with a band and bolt
assembly. A leakproof seal is provided by a gasket. The next most
common overpack drum is made of plastic and not harmed by most
corrosive materials. This type of drum has a screwon head that
contains a venting bung and gasket to ensure a seal.
There are several methods for putting a 55gallon drum into an overpack
without lifting it. One method is to insert the damaged drum into the
overpack turned on its side. This method requires the work of two
people. Pieces of lumber and
cardboard are helpful in sliding the
punctured drum on its side into the
overpack. Another method is to
lower the overpack over the
damaged drum and then invert the
two drums together. The picture at
the right shows yet another method.
Place the damaged barrel and the
overpack at a slight angle to each
other, rolling both drums so that the
damaged barrel rolls into the overpack. With the damaged drum
secured inside, the lid is placed on the overpack and sealed. It is
important that the damaged drum be wedged or immobilized inside the
overpack with wood, cardboard, or other packing material.
Movement of the damaged drum within the overpack can cause
additional ruptures to occur during handling and transport. Absorbent
also should be added to soak up spills and leakage that may occur
during transport.
Before placing a drum in an overpack, observe the following:
· Record all label information from the damaged drum and other
information that could be useful, such as where the drum was
located and what its contents are.
· Make certain that the overpack drum is compatible with the
contents of the damaged drum.
· Prepare a label for the overpack drum.
Reduce splashes and spills and stop leaking material using one of the
following methods:
· Use temporary plugs or patches.
· Place the damaged drum in a heavyduty plastic bag.
Consider the following methods for getting the damaged drum inside the
overpack drum:
· Slide it into an overpack on a heavy duty plastic bag.
· Roll it into the overpack using a three to fourinch diameter wood
dowel or PVC pipe 2 to 3 feet long.
· Maneuver it into the overpack by rolling the drum onto a wood 2 x
4 and then balancing it on the piece of wood as the overpack is
moved over the damaged drum.
· Damaged upright drums can be picked up using a drum sling or
other lifting device that grabs onto the chime. This permits
removal of the lifting device after insertion into the overpack.
Ensure that the chime is not damaged and observe extreme
caution if it is.
Be aware that pressure from the lifting

device may cause further damage or
total failure of the drum.
When raising a drum with a lift, place the overpack under it and then
lower the damaged drum into the overpack. Don't swing or rotate the
drum into the overpack. Secure the damaged drum inside the overpack
and attach a copy of information obtained from the damaged drum to the
outside of the overpack.
Drum and Tank Repair Plug and Patch Operations
Before proceeding with drum repair, make
sure that proper protective clothing and
equipment are used and that the leak in the
drum has stopped. If the leak has not
stopped, position the drum so that the leak
is above the liquid line. Lock the drum in
this position with wood blocks. Use a
temporary plug or patch to contain the
leaking material.
With the drum secured and the leak

stopped, clean the immediate work area of
the material that has leaked. Use
absorbents and place the material in drums
for disposal at a later time. This will allow
the repair to proceed safely and the contamination to be contained.
The most common leaks come from loose connections, the absence or

deterioration of gaskets, damaged threads on fasteners, and the
corrosion of fittings. Tightening a nut or bolt can stop many of these
leaks. Other leaks are a result of mishandling and improper use of
equipment. Punctures in the sides of the drum and leaks in the chime,
where the body and head of the drum are joined, are two common areas
for leaks to develop because of improper handling.
Plugs and patches and combinations of the two make effective repairs.

Plugs can be wooden wedges, screws with washers, tubeless tire plugs,
toggle bolts with washers, and expandable plugs. Patches include metal
tapes, epoxy sealers, and mastic materials. Patching can be done by
wrapping the drum in a banding material such as rubber or neoprene
and holding it in place with a metal plate.
Rectangular or round wedges of soft

wood are effective for patching large
and irregular holes. Wood shingles,
door shims, and tapered wood dowels
all work well. Irregular holes should be
lined with lead wool before the wedge
is driven into the hole. The lead wool,
available from plumbing supply stores,
will compress and fill the irregular
edges when the wedge is inserted.
After the wedge is firmly seated, it is trimmed so that the repair can be
sealed or the drum placed inside an overpack. Before sealing, clean the
area around the hole of paint and contaminated material. If the material
in the drum is flammable, do not use anything that might create a spark.
After cleaning, seal the repair with lead, steel, aluminum body tape, or
with a selfhardening metalline plastic such as liquid steel or epoxy
compound.
Lead wool and an epoxy compound are useful for patching small holes.
The procedure for doing this is similar to that used for installing a wedge.
The area around the hole is cleaned; the wool is packed into the hole
with a plastic or rubber mallet, and the repair coated with epoxy.
Sheet metal screws that are large enough to bite into the metal
surrounding the hole can be used with neoprene washers to plug small
holes. The flexibility of the neoprene washer allows this type of plug to
fit a variety of contours. If the hole is too large for a sheet metal screw, a
toggle bolt can be used with a neoprene washer or ball. The metal
washer provides the strength to bridge the hole and the tightening of the
nut forces the neoprene to close the hole. Even larger holes may be
plugged with a similar toggle bolt assembly and a tapered plug
substituted for the neoprene washer.
Several commercially available mastictype products are very sticky and
contain clay, starch, or synthetic polymers. This material is inert and can
be molded to plug and patch holes in drums, tanks, or containers. The
material will adhere very well to the drum. Disposable gloves should be
used when working with this material, as it is difficult to remove. After
the patch is made, it should be covered with duct tape. The drum can
then be placed in an overpack. This type of patch is temporary but will
stop leaks as long as the drum is not pressurized. This type of patch
also works well on the seams between the drum and the drumhead.
Banding is another type of patch that is very effective and strong. A
piece of sheet rubber or neoprene is placed over the hole and backed
with a metal plate. The assembly is clamped or held in place by a fabric
band or chain that is tightened around the drum.
A variation to this method places an air bag between the neoprene and
the banding material. The air bag is then slowly inflated forcing the
neoprene against an irregularly shaped hole. This is often done when
the hole is near or on a rib of the drum or tank.
Air bags must be used with caution as the pressure exerted by the air
bag can crush a drum or tank. Air bags must not be pressurized to more
then 22 psi of pressure. A safety control with a 22psi safety relief valve
should be used in series with the bag. Input pressure to air bags should
be limited to 20 to 40 psi. An air bag cannot be placed directly against
sharp or jagged surfaces. Sealing pads or plates can be used to protect
the bag; the same pads may be used to protect the bag from chemical
attack. Air bags should be put in place and banded to the leak before
they are pressurized. Once banded or belted in place, the air bag can
contour to 90° square corners.
Absorption Methods
Dry absorbents commonly used at spill sites
include vermiculite, expanded clay,
diatomaceous earth, sand, ground
corncobs, polypropylene fibers, Hazorb
sawdust, and granular activated carbon.
There are many other specialized
absorbents and variations of these
materials. All of these materials absorb
liquids. Granular activated carbon absorbs
gas vapors as well. Absorption is the
process in which materials hold liquids
through the process of wetting. Absorption
is accompanied by an increase in the
volume to sorbate/sorbent system through
the process of swelling.
Floor Dry
The most common and economical among dry absorbent is a
commercial product known as Floor Dry, commonly used in automotive
repair centers. Floor Dry is clay made up of hydrous aluminum and iron
magnesium silicates. The absorbent will soak up to 50 percent of its
weight in liquids and oils. It has a density of 40 pounds per cubic foot.
Although economical to use, it is very heavy and generally cannot be
incinerated. This product can be very dusty. It is most commonly
packaged in 50pound bags that will absorb about 5.5 gallons of fluid.
Sand
Sand is a common and economical dry absorbent. The absorbent will
soak up to 10% percent of its weight in liquids and oils. It has a density
of 50 pounds per cubic foot. Although economical to use, it is very
heavy and cannot be incinerated. It is not commonly packaged in bags
but delivered by the cubic yard via dump trucks. Sand is best used to
control large spills of oil and other viscous materials.
Diatomaceous Earth (SolidASorb)
Diatomaceous earth is made of a fine, granular, calciumbased material.
It is much lighter than the claybased materials but can be used in much
the same way. It has a density of 25 pounds per cubic foot.
It is available in 25pound bags that will absorb about five gallons of
liquid. A disadvantage of this material is that liquid will tend to drain from
the material after one to four hours.
Polypropylene
Polypropylene fibers are a lightweight material that can be used on most
liquids. It can be incinerated. It consists of shredded polypropylene
fibers and comes in two forms, universal sorbent for water and organic
based chemicals and hydrophobic sorbent for hydrocarbons. The
hydrophobic sorbent repels water and will float on water. The density of
both sorbents is five pounds per cubic foot. A fivepound bag will absorb
about four gallons of water or organicbased liquid or six to ten gallons of
a hydrocarbonbased liquid.
Hazorb
Hazorb is a proprietary product made of highly expanded silicates. The
material is very lightweight and can be used on most liquids except for
hydrofluoric acid. Density is 2.2 pounds per cubic foot. One cubic foot
will absorb two to three gallons of liquid. A tenpound bag will absorb 10
to 15 gallons of liquid.
Vermiculite
Vermiculite is a common lightweight granular material often used in
shipping containers and as insulation. It can be used on most chemicals
and noncombustible liquids. Density is 4.5 pounds per cubic foot. An
18pound bag will absorb four to five gallons of liquid.
Activated Carbon
Activated carbon is a granular substance that absorbs vapors and
liquids. It is very effective on flammable solvents and suppresses the
formation of dangerous vapors. Density is 16 pounds per cubic foot. A
fivegallon pail of activated carbon will absorb 1.5 gallons of liquid and
suppress the vapors associated with that amount of liquid. Activated
carbon can be used over other absorbents to absorb vapors but not
liquids.
Spill Pillows
Spill pillows are absorbent products that
most commonly contain amorphous silicate
particles or polypropylene. Pillows may
contain any of the dry absorbents. The
pillows can be used for acids, caustics, and
organic solvents. They should not be used
for solutions containing hydrofluoric acid
unless specifically labeled as acceptable for
this use. The pillows are also effective for
absorption of hazardous biological spills that
cannot be chemically inactivated in place.
The pillows generally are packaged in four different sizes with a capacity
for absorbing a pint, quart, gallon or two gallons of liquid. There is no
limit on shelf life.
Control pillows are also known as control pigs, dikes, and socks. A
different control pillow should be used for each spill as chemicals from
different spills may react violently with each other. No attempt should be
made to dry out and reuse pillows because chemical residues may
remain. It is difficult but possible to use pillows on heavy oils and
viscous materials. The material may need to be diluted to facilitate
absorption.
Special hydrophobic spill control pillows, socks, booms and rugs are
available that will absorb oil and other petroleumbased solvents but not
water. Most are filled with polypropylene or treated cellulose. They are
most suitable for use in wet areas or on water. Most of the products can
be wrung out and reused on the same spill. They should not be used for
other spills because chemicals from the different spills may react
violently with each other. Be careful when working with flammable spills,
as the hydrophobic materials will burn.
Neutralization
Most corrosives can be neutralized by applying another material to the
spilled corrosive acid or base, which will react chemically with it to form a
less harmful substance. Neutralization reactions generally give off heat
and are subject to splattering. Full Level B protection is needed by
personnel attempting to neutralize a corrosive material. Spills should be
covered by shoveling from the outermost edge inward. Avoid walking
through nonneutralized material.
Neutralization Agents
Soda ash in 50pound bags is the most common neutralizing agent for
strong acids. Other common agents include sodium bicarbonate and
lime. All are used in a dry form and generally applied in excess. Some
spill guns are available that dispense neutralizing agents just like a dry
powder fire extinguisher.
Neutralization agents for bases tend to be liquids like citric acid or dilute
hydrochloric. After the base is neutralized, the liquid is absorbed with
floor dry, SolidASorb, or another available dry absorbent.
GelForming Agents
Gels forming agents or bonding agents are
dry granular materials specifically designed
to gel or coagulate aqueous or petroleum
based liquids. Unlike absorbents that soak
up the liquid through physical actions, gel
forming agents chemically bond to the
liquid. The chemical bond keeps the liquid
from separating from the absorbent.
Gelling agents for petroleum based liquids can be used to separate the
petroleum from water, as the gelforming product reacts only with the
petroleum product. Thus, a floating liquid can be changed to a floating
solid much easier for containment and removal. On landbased spills,
the gelforming agents immobilize the spilled material to reduce ground
contamination. The gelforming agents also reduce but do not eliminate
volatility of the spill material.
Gelling agents for petroleumbased liquids do not work well on oil/water
emulsions. Gelling agents designed for water are effective when used in
moderation. The gelling agent must be applied to the floating emulsion.
Allowing the gelling agent to reach water uncontaminated by the
emulsion will only compound the cleanup problem.
On water spills, gelling agents have been used to increase the
effectiveness of booms, underflow dams, and filter fences. As gel
forming agents do not have EPA approval, permission to apply them to
surface waters must be obtained from state and federal authorities at the
time of response. Solidified material must be evaluated as a possible
hazardous waste and disposed of accordingly.
Vapor
Suppression
Foam Blanketing
Methods
Vapor from hazardous
spills is suppressed by
applying a foam
blanket over a spill in
a contained area. It is
less effective if the liquid is not contained and is not effective if the liquid
is flowing.
Vapor suppressing foams vary in effectiveness. The type of chemicals

in the spill, size of spill, topography of the spill area, type of foam, and
the rate and density of application all affect the successfulness of this
technique. Foams presently being used are mechanical agents
produced by mixing diluted foam concentrate with air and water. Foams
can be broken down into categories by chemical composition and by
expansion ratio. They break down chemically into fluoroprotein foams
and synthetic aqueous filmforming foams (AFFF). Both the protein
based and AFFF type foams have good vapor suppressing
characteristics. The AFFF types flow and cover hydrocarbon fuels better
than the proteinbased foams. The proteinbased foams are more fire
resistant.
Both types of foam are available in forms that act on water soluble or
polar solvents such as alcohols, ketones, and ethers. Common
examples are acetone, ethanol, MEK, and diethyl ether. (Unless
specially formulated with polysaccharides, traditional foams cannot be
used on water soluble or polar solvents.) These multipurpose foams are
the most commonly used as they can be used on all types of flammable
chemicals. The normal dilution rate for foams used on water soluble
fuels is six percent and for nonwater soluble fuels, three percent. Some
foams specify a uniform three percent dilution rate.
Vapor Barrier Sorbent (VBS) Blankets
These fabric blankets made of polypropylene microfibers provide high
absorbency for liquids and suppress or trap vapors under a polyethylene
film attached to the top of the fabric blanket.
Activated Carbon
Activated carbon, a granular absorbent, will absorb vapors and liquids. It
is very effective on flammable solvents and suppresses the formation of
dangerous vapors. Activated carbon also can be used over other
absorbents to absorb vapors. Granular activated carbon must not be
confused with powdered activated carbon. The powdered material will
not absorb liquids and is dusty. The dust can be a fire hazard.
Water Spray or Fog
The use of water as spray or fog patterns to control
hazardous vapors is effective in controlling some
gases. Various techniques involving the use of water
spray have proven successful in actual incidents. For
example, air entrained in water spray has been shown
to dilute, ventilate, and move hazardous vapors. Water
droplets in spray will absorb soluble vapors under
certain conditions.
Use of water or fog on flammable gases to prevent
ignition is seldom successful and may result in a more
severe fire or explosion than would have occurred otherwise (NIOSH
July 1985 Request for Assistance in Preventing or Controlling Ignition of
Flammable Atmospheres).
Water used for vapor dispersion or absorption will be contaminated and
must be contained for later treatment or disposal. The effects of the
water and gas on the leaking container also must be considered. For
example, both chlorine and sulfur dioxide will form strong acids that will
react with the leaking container and increase the rate of discharge. If
water is used near leaking chlorine or sulfur dioxide containers, the leak
on the container must be kept dry.
Safety Considerations for Response and Spill Cleanup
Corrosives
Corrosive agents present special problems for response personnel.
These types of materials can damage metals, gasket materials and, of
course, human tissue. Many corrosives will react with metals to give off
hydrogen gas, creating a flammable gas hazard. The hazards to
response personnel from splashes and incidental contact with the
substance can be extreme. Response personnel must pay particular
attention to selection of the proper level of protection (EPA Level B) and
the correct assembly of the clothing and equipment.
Danger comes from splashes, mists, and fumes. Splashes of acid to an
SCBA can cause malfunction. None of the PPE in use is designed to
protect from immersion into an acid or caustic. Decontamination of
personnel should be thorough. Decontamination of tools and
equipment, if possible, must be thorough to prevent further corrosion.
Sodium Hydroxide
Sodium hydroxide liquid is the water solution of sodium hydroxide. The
concentrated solutions will dissolve in additional water with the evolution
of heat. It is corrosive to metals and tissue. Keep material out of water
sources and sewers. Build dikes to contain flow as necessary. Recover
spilled material whenever possible. Neutralize unrecoverable material
with citric acid, vinegar, or other dilute acid. Land spill: Dig a pit, pond,
lagoon, or holding area to contain liquid or solid material. Dike the
surface flow using soil or sandbags. Absorb bulk liquid with fly ash or
cement powder. Neutralize with citric acid, vinegar, or other dilute acid.
Water spill: Neutralize with dilute acid or removable strong acid. Air spill:
Apply water spray or mist to knock down vapors.
Anhydrous Ammonia
Anhydrous ammonia is a clear colorless gas with a characteristic odor.

Although it is classed as a nonflammable gas, it will burn within certain
vapor concentration limits, and the fire hazard will increase in the
presence of oil or other combustible materials. Its "combustibility" should
be considered but is not a common problem in the event of leakage.
It is shipped as a liquid under pressure. Contact with the liquid can
cause frostbite. It is soluble in water forming a corrosive liquid. Although
ammonia is lighter than air, the vapors from a leak initially hug the
ground. Keep material out of water sources and sewers. Attempt to stop
the leak if exposure can be prevented. Use water spray to knock down
vapors. Vapor knockdown water is corrosive, toxic, and should be diked
for containment.
Sulfuric Acid
Sulfuric acid is a colorless oily liquid. It is soluble in water with release of
heat. It is corrosive to metals and tissue. It will char wood and most
other organic matter on contact but is unlikely to cause a fire.
Hydrochloric Acid
Hydrochloric acid is a colorless to yellow liquid with a pungent odor. Its
fumes are irritating to the eyes and mucous membranes. It is soluble in
water with release of heat. It is corrosive to metals and tissue.
Nitric Acid
Nitric acid is a colorless to yellow or red liquid sometimes fuming reddish
brown vapors with a suffocating odor. It is soluble in water with release
of heat. It is corrosive to metals and tissue. It will accelerate the burning
of combustible materials and it may even cause ignition of combustible
materials by contact.
Any Acid
For any acid that is fuming, isolate the area 150 feet in all directions.
Keep concentrated material out of water sources and sewers. Build
dikes to contain flow, as necessary. Recover spilled material whenever
possible. Neutralize unrecoverable spilled material with crushed
limestone, soda ash, or lime.
Flammable Liquids
Where flammable liquid spills have occurred, vapor concentrations
should be monitored before and while workers are in the area. Priority
should be given to providing increased ventilation and absorbing vapors
from the liquid. Activated carbon is a granular substance that absorbs
vapors and liquids. It is very effective on flammable solvents and
suppresses the formation of dangerous vapors. Density is 16 pounds
per cubic foot. A fivegallon pail of activated carbon will absorb 1.5
gallons of liquid and suppress the vapors associated with that amount of
liquid.
Hexane is a clear colorless liquid with a petroleumlike odor. It has a
flash point of 9°F. It is lighter than water and insoluble in water. Its
vapors are heavier than air. Keep sparks, flames, and other sources of
ignition away. Keep material out of water sources and sewers. Build
dikes to contain flow as necessary. Cover diked material with foam and
pump to recovery tank or truck. Thin layers of spilled material may be
absorbed with mixtures of granular activated carbon and dry absorbents.
Alternatively, gelforming products may be used. Attempt to stop the
leak if exposure can be prevented. Use water spray to knock down
vapors.
Response teams should limit actions to

absorbing spills and removing absorbed material
from the building. Call for fire department
assistance in all but the smallest spills. Do not
enter atmospheres having greater than 10
percent of Lower Explosive Limit (LEL). Monitor
LEL throughout the response. Slight changes in
outdoor wind can greatly change indoor
concentrations of gas or vapor.
RCRA (Hazardous Wastes)
Regulations under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
(RCRA) require specific control over the disposal of certain materials
covered by the regulations. These would include, for example, spilled or
discarded acids, caustics, gasoline, paints, perchloroethylene, solvents,
and thinners.
With the exception of oils and organic materials disposed of through the
sewer system, the assumption should be made that cleanup material
and residue from all liquid products used are RCRA hazardous materials
and require special handling, labeling, and disposal. In the event of a
spill of a covered material, the material and residue (contaminated soils,
clothing, etc.) should be cleaned up using the appropriate procedures.
The cleanedup product is to be put into approved containers, labeled,
and sent to the hazardous waste storage area for login and proper
disposal. For large cleanups, bulk trucks or tankers of approved design
and from EPA permitted transporters should be used. All RCRA
hazardous wastes must be disposed of in a permitted RCRA hazardous
waste disposal facility.
Toxins and Pesticides
Toxic substances, pesticides and corrosives, present special problems
for responders. This class of compounds includes substances that are
serious dermal, respiratory, and ingestion hazards. The selection of the
proper level of protection is critical, as is the selection of the proper suit
and glove materials (check permeation references).
Often multiple layers of different suit and glove materials is prudent,
depending on the toxicity and characteristics of the substances. Upon
exit from the spill area, thorough decontamination of the outer layer of
clothing should be followed by thorough decontamination or disposal of
the inner suit and subsequent showering by personnel.
Compressed Gases and Cryogenic Liquids
Over 100 different gases and gas mixtures are shipped and stored in
compressed gas cylinders. Industrial gases such as nitrogen, acetylene,
hydrogen, and methane are very common as are breathing air and
refrigerants. Most cylinders contain gases under high pressure. Some
contain liquefied gases under their vapor pressure.
The principal hazards to personnel are:
· Innate characteristics of the particular gas involved.
· Contents being under extreme pressure.
Leaks from cylinders are from attachments or cylinder wall breaches.
Leaks from attachments are generally the result of attachment failure,
loose connections, or open valves and can be corrected by tightening
connections and closing valves. If the cylinder contains a liquefied gas
such as carbon dioxide, the cylinder should be uprighted first so that
gas is escaping, not liquid. Leaks from cylinder walls require the use of
specialized equipment not normally available to response teams. For
leaks of this type, contact a local industrial or medical gas supplier for
expert assistance.
Summary
Proper methods and procedures must be used to handle spills from
containers of hazardous materials. Spill containment and remediation
activities will be determined and directed by the Incident Commander at
the scene of the incident. Response activities will be directed according
to the following priorities:
1. The protection of human life, health, and safety.
2. The mitigation of environmental harm.
3. The protection of property.
A response to a hazardous materials spill should be limited when
possible to defensive actions. Teams should observe the following
general guidelines when handling a response to chemical releases:
· Implement ICS.
· Identify the hazards.
· Use proper PPE.
· Use the buddy system.
· Have backup personnel with equipment on standby.
· Designate a safety official.
· Maintain communications.
· Maintain contact with the Incident Commander or Site Safety
Officer.
· Use appropriate decontamination procedures.
· Consider each of these factors as the hazards are identified and
as a plan of action is prepared in response to spills.
Review Questions
1. What factors affect the behavior of a released hazardous
material?
2. What is the purpose of overpacking a drum?
3. If an open or deteriorated drum containing liquid cannot be
moved without danger of breaking open, what should be done?
4. When are accidents most likely to occur when handling a drum
during a spill response?
5. When should the immediate work area around a drum be
cleaned?
6. What type of material may require expert assistance when
responding to a leak?
7. Identify three methods or materials used to suppress vapors
during a spill.
8. Suggest several types of absorbents that could be used in the
cleanup of 30 gallons of lightweight oil.

Emergency and Disaster Response To Chemical Releases: Technician Level Training

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Emergency and Disaster Response To Chemical Releases: Technician Level Training

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Emergency and Disaster Response To Chemical Releases: Technician Level Training

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Emergency

1. List the factors that affect the behavior of a released hazardous

Spill containment and remediation activities shall, by necessity, be

4. The environment, including the physical surroundings and the

If the drum cannot be moved without

Bond the drums together and then ground the drums when transferring

Overpack or salvage drums are heavyduty, openended drums with a

Be aware that pressure from the lifting

With the drum secured and the leak

The most common leaks come from loose connections, the absence or

Plugs and patches and combinations of the two make effective repairs.

Rectangular or round wedges of soft

Vapor suppressing foams vary in effectiveness. The type of chemicals

Anhydrous ammonia is a clear colorless gas with a characteristic odor.

Response teams should limit actions to

You might also like

Emergency and Disaster Response To Chemical Releases: Technician Level Training

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Emergency and Disaster Response To Chemical Releases: Technician Level Training

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Emergency and Disaster Response To Chemical Releases: Technician Level Training

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Emergency

1. List the factors that affect the behavior of a released hazardous

Spill containment and remediation activities shall, by necessity, be

4. The environment, including the physical surroundings and the

If the drum cannot be moved without

Bond the drums together and then ground the drums when transferring

Overpack or salvage drums are heavy­duty, open­ended drums with a

Be aware that pressure from the lifting

With the drum secured and the leak

The most common leaks come from loose connections, the absence or

Plugs and patches and combinations of the two make effective repairs.

Rectangular or round wedges of soft

Vapor suppressing foams vary in effectiveness. The type of chemicals

Anhydrous ammonia is a clear colorless gas with a characteristic odor.

Response teams should limit actions to

You might also like

Overpack or salvage drums are heavyduty, openended drums with a