NCFLEPC - Florida SERC Guidelines for hazmat training

NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA
LOCAL EMERGENCY PLANNING COMMITTEE
2009 NW 67th Place, Gainesville FL 32653-1603 -- (352) 955-2200 x108 -- fax 955-2209

FLORIDA STATE EMERGENCY RESPONSE COMMISSION

Guidelines for Public Sector Hazardous Materials Training

July 7, 1994
Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION
GUIDELINES FOR EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE RESPONDERS HAZARDOUS MATERIALS TRAINING
Emergency Medical Services Responder Level 1
First Responder Awareness
EMS Level 1
Summary: EMS Level 1 Responder
Emergency Medical Service Responder Level 2
First Responder Operational
EMS Level 2
Summary EMS Level 2 Responder
GUIDELINES FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS HAZARDOUS MATERIALS TRAINING
Law Enforcement Level 1
Summary: Law Enforcement Officer Awareness Level
GUIDELINES FOR FIRE FIGHTERS HAZARDOUS MATERIALS TRAINING
First Responder Awareness
Operational level competencies:
Summary: Fire Fighter Operations Level
GUIDELINES FOR PUBLIC WORKS, UTILITIES, TRANSPORTATION, PUBLIC HEALTH AND OTHER PUBLIC SECTOR EMPLOYEES HAZARDOUS MATERIALS TRAINING
First Responder Awareness Level
Summary: First Responder Awareness Level
First Responder Operational Level
Summary: Public Sector Employees Operations Level

Table of Contents (Continued)
GUIDELINES FOR HAZARDOUS MATERIALS TECHNICIANS HAZARDOUS MATERIALS TRAINING
Hazardous Materials Technician
Summary: Hazardous Materials Technician Level
GUIDELINES FOR INCIDENT COMMANDER HAZARDOUS MATERIALS TRAINING
First Responder Awareness
Operational level competencies:
Incident Commander competencies
Summary: Incident Commander
GUIDELINES FOR INSTRUCTOR QUALIFICATIONS OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS TRAINERS
Instructor Qualifications
Introduction

The Florida State Emergency Response Commission (SERC) has been challenged by the need for consistent guidance in the training of public sector responders State-wide and delegated the SERC Training Task Force with developing training guidelines compliant with the Superfund Amendment and Reauthorization Act of 1986 (Title I, Section 126). This federal law required the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to promulgate regulations (29 CFR 1910.120 and 40 CFR 311) to protect workers from the effects of exposure to hazardous materials.

Along with the federal hazardous materials emergency response training mandate, the nationally recognized consensus standards established by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) must be considered. NFPA 472, "Standard for Professional Competence of Responders to Hazardous Materials Incidents," provides explicit detailed objectives for training responders to hazardous materials incidents. NFPA 472 is cited in 29 CFR 1910.120 as an "excellent resource" to aid emergency response organizations in developing training programs. NFPA 473, "Competencies for Emergency Medical Service (EMS) Personnel Responding to Hazardous Materials Incidents" provides similar guidance for emergency medical services training programs.

The previously described laws, regulations, and consensus standards provide the reasonable, prudent, and appropriate guidance which will likely result in the "Standard of Care" to which emergency responders may be held accountable. In the event an incident that results in responders taking action contrary to the "Guidance," liability for personal injury or property damage could fall on the emergency response organization. In addition, if the responder is harmed as a result of the employer's failure to properly train the emergency responder, then the responder may initiate litigation for compensation.

The goal of an emergency response organization should be to provide competent, reasonable, prudent, and appropriate actions, consistent with the applicable guidance at hazardous materials emergencies and therefore, avoid liabilities associated with a failure to comply. Emergency Service Organizations can only provide for, and effectively and efficiently protect the public and the environment, if properly trained. Emergency responders must have the competency to properly mitigate a hazardous materials incident within their level of training, consistent with local emergency response plan and standard operating procedures. The competencies specified in the SERC, Guidelines for Public Sector Hazardous Materials Response Training meet the need for guidance in developing responders who will meet the demanding challenges of hazardous materials response.

Included within these guidelines are:

1. Guidelines for Emergency Medical Service Responders Hazardous Materials Training.

2. Guidelines for Law Enforcement Hazardous Materials Training.

3. Guidelines for Fire Fighter Hazardous Materials Training.

4. Guidelines for Public Works, Utilities, Transportation, Public Health, and Other Public Sector Employes Hazardous Materials Training.

5. Guidelines for Hazardous Materials Technician Hazardous Materials Training.

6. Guidelines for Incident Commander Hazardous Materials Training

7. Guidelines for Instructor Qualifications of Hazardous Materials Trainers.

SARA Title III, Section 303 states: ...Each emergency plan shall include training programs, including schedules for training of local emergency response and medical personnel. Each plan should also describe training requirements for LEPC members and all hazmat emergency response personnel. Each plan should list and describe the training programs to support these requirements...

REFERENCES

OSHA, 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response.
EPA, 40 CFR 311, Worker Protection Standards for Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response.
NETC, Guidelines for Public Sector Hazardous Materials Training.
NFPA 472, Standard for Professional Competence of Responders to Hazardous Materials Incidents.
NFPA 473, Standard for Competencies for EMS Personnel Responding to Hazardous Materials Incidents.

FLORIDA STATE EMERGENCY RESPONSE COMMISSION

Guidelines for Emergency Medical Responders
Hazardous Materials Training

Guidelines for Emergency Medical Service Responders Hazardous Materials Training

Emergency Medical Services Responder Level 1

Introduction

Emergency Medical Service Responders Level 1 shall be trained to meet the requirements of the first responder at the awareness level, as defined in OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120(q), and meet the competencies included in this section. In addition, EMS responders level 1 shall meet the training requirements of Florida Department of Labor and Employment Security, Florida Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as appropriate for their jurisdictions.

In addition to being trained to the first responder awareness level and EMS Level 1, emergency service personnel responding to hazardous material incidents will be trained and receive regular continuing education to maintain competence in three areas: emergency medical technology, hazardous materials, and specialized topics such as hazardous materials toxicology, as approved by the Florida Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services.

Definition

Emergency Medical Service Responder Level 1 are those persons who in the normal course of their duties may be called upon to perform patient care activities in the cold zone (i.e. clean, or support zone) at a hazardous materials incident. EMS responders Level 1 shall provide prehospital care only to those individuals who no longer pose a significant risk of secondary contamination.

Audience

All emergency medical technicians, paramedics, and other health professionals who in the course of their normal duties, may respond to hazardous materials emergencies either as first responders or as on-site cold zone support to the incident command structure at an incident.

Related Health, Safety, and Performance Standards

OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120 Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response
EPA 40 CFR 311 Worker Protection
NFPA 473 Standard for Competencies for EMS Personnel Responding to Hazardous Materials Incidents
Guidelines for Public Sector Hazardous Materials Training, NETC

Appropriate Methodologies

EMS Level 1 training should include a combination of traditional classroom lecture with small group activities, table top and field exercises involving working with the incident command structure in simulated emergencies, and hands-on psychomotor skill training. Content instruction should focus on contamination hazards, treatment procedures, and incident scene roles and responsibilities.

Student activities should focus on assessment, analysis of hazards and determination of appropriate procedures. Skill training should focus on implementing procedures. Written and practical examinations are highly recommended to measure achievement in initial training and refresher programs and to support the employer's responsibility that all EMS personnel are trained to competency before being called on to perform at actual emergencies. Table top and field exercises should focus on acting out incident scene roles and on implementing procedures in a field environment. Refresher training should be conducted on an annual basis and focus on technical updates to changes in response protocols, SOPs, and renewal of individual response skills.

The SERC estimates that the initial entry level training can be accomplished in approximately 8 contact hours, including the first responder awareness training, with competent instructors knowledgeable in hazardous materials response. Annual refresher training should be accomplishable with approximately 4 contact hours. However 8 hours would be preferred.

The Florida Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services, Emergency Medical Services requires the individual to re-certify regularly. It is recommended that the individual be required to demonstrate proof of refresher training consistent with existing standards and that all EMS employers and educational institutions be required to issue certificates of training for compliance with refresher hazardous materials training.

The following resources are recommended to supplement the training process:

LEPC Emergency Response Plan
Standard Operating Procedures
Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary, 11th Edition
Hazardous Chemical Data (U.S. Government)
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120
NIOSH Pocket Guide (U.S. Government)
Emergency Action Guides (Association of American Railroads)
NFPA 471, 472, 473
Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemicals and Carcinogens
Toxic Gases: First Aid and Medical Treatment.
Haz/Mat Injuries (Bradford/Stutz)
Emergency Care for Haz/Mat Exposures (Mosby/Bronstien and Currance)

Training

All EMS Level 1 personnel will be trained to the awareness level utilizing the National Fire Academy Program - Initial Response to Hazardous Materials Incidents: Basic Concepts or similar curricula complying with the First Responder Awareness Level as defined in 29 CFR 1910.120 and NFPA 472. Additionally, all EMS Level 1 responders will be trained to perform the EMS Level 1 competencies.

The following awareness level competencies are included for completeness.

First Responder Awareness

AWARE-1 Given a hazardous materials incident scenario, demonstrate an understanding of the role of the Public Sector Employee at the awareness level.

AWARE-1.1 Describe the responsibility to analyze the incident to determine the hazardous materials present and the basic hazard and response information for each type of hazardous material, and demonstrate the ability to do the following:

AWARE-1.1.1 Identify the responsibility to detect the presence of hazardous materials.

AWARE-1.1.2 Identify the responsibilities to survey a hazardous materials incident, from a safe location, to identify the name, UN/NA identification number, or type placard applied for any hazardous material.

AWARE-1.2 Describe the responsibilities to collect hazard information from the current edition of the DOT Emergency Response Guidebook.

AWARE-1.3 Describe the responsibility to implement actions consistent with the local emergency response plan, the organization's SOP's and the current edition of the DOT Emergency Response Guidebook, and demonstrate the ability to do the following:

AWARE-1.3.1 Identify the responsibility to initiate protective actions consistent with the local emergency response plan, the organization's SOP's, and the current edition of the DOT Emergency Response Guidebook.

AWARE-1.3.2 Identify the responsibility to initiate the notification process specified in the local emergency response plan and the organization's SOP's.

AWARE-2 Given incident scenarios involving facility and/or transportation situations with and without hazardous materials present, identify those situations where hazardous materials are present.

AWARE-2.1 Identify the definition of hazardous materials.

AWARE-2.2 Identify the DOT hazard classes and divisions of hazardous materials and identify common examples of each hazard class or division.

AWARE-2.3 Identify the primary hazards associated with each of the DOT hazard classes and divisions of hazardous materials by hazard class or division.

AWARE-2.4 Identify the difference between hazardous materials emergencies and other emergencies.

AWARE-2.5 Identify typical occupancies and locations in the community where hazardous materials are manufactured, stored, transported, used, or disposed of.

AWARE-2.6 Identify typical container shapes that may indicate hazardous materials.

AWARE-2.7 Identify facility and transportation markings and colors that indicate hazardous materials, including: (a) UN/NA identification number; (b) NFPA 704 markings; (c) military hazardous materials markings; (d) special hazard communication markings; (e) pipeline marker; (f) container markings.

AWARE-2.7.1 Given an NFPA 704 marking, identify the significance of the colors, numbers, and special symbols.

AWARE-2.8 Identify US. and Canadian placards and labels that indicate hazardous materials.

AWARE-2.9 Identify the basic information on material safety data sheets (MSDS) and shipping papers that indicate hazardous materials, and identify how to locate the documents.

AWARE-2.10 Identify examples of clues (other then occupancy/location, container shape, markings/ color, placards/labels, and shipping papers) that use the senses of sight, sound, and odor to indicate the presence of hazardous materials.

AWARE-2.11 Describe the limitations of using the senses in determining the presence or absence of hazardous materials.

AWARE-3 Given simulated facility and transportation incidents involving hazardous materials, identify the hazardous material(s) in each situation by name, UN/NA identification number, and/or type placard applied.

AWARE-3.1 Identify difficulties encountered in determining the specific names of hazardous materials in both facilities and transportation.

AWARE-3.2 Identify the significance of the terms "Type A", "Type B", and "Special Form" as they relate to radioactive materials packaging.

AWARE-3.3 Identify additional information concerning radionuclide identity and activity provided on radioactive material labels and shipping papers.

AWARE-3.4 Identify additional information concerning physical and chemical form and packaging type provided on radioactive materials shipping papers.

AWARE-3.5 Identify sources for obtaining the names of, UN/NA identification numbers for, or type of placards associated with hazardous materials in transportation.

AWARE-3.6 Identify sources for obtaining the names of hazardous materials in a facility.

AWARE-4 Given the identity of various hazardous materials (name, UN/NA number, or type placard), identify the fire, explosion, and health hazard information for each material using the current edition of the DOT Emergency Response Guidebook.

AWARE-4.1 Identify the way hazardous materials are harmful to people, the environment, and property at hazardous materials incidents.

AWARE-4.2 Identify the general routes of entry for human exposure to hazardous materials.

AWARE-4.3 Given the current edition of the DOT Emergency Response Guidebook, identify the three methods for determining the appropriate guide page for a specific hazardous material.

AWARE-4.4 Given the current edition of the DOT Emergency Response Guidebook, identify the two general types of hazards found on each guide page.

AWARE-4.5 Identify the difficulties encountered in using the senses to recognize radioactive material releases and radiation exposure.

AWARE-5 Given simulated facility and transportation hazardous materials incidents, identify the actions to be taken to protect themselves and others and to control access to the scene using the local emergency response plan, the organization's SOP's, or the current edition of the DOT Emergency Response Guidebook.

AWARE-5.1 Identify the location of both the local emergency response plan and the organization's SOP's.

AWARE-5.2 Given a copy of the current edition of the DOT Emergency Response Guidebook, describe the difference between the protective action distances in the orange-bordered guide pages and the green-bordered pages in the document.

AWARE-5.3 Given the local emergency response plan or the organization's SOP's, identify the role of the Public Sector Employee at the awareness level during a hazardous material incident.

AWARE-5.4 Given the local emergency response plan or the organization's SOP's, identify the basic precautions to be taken to protect herself/himself and others in a hazardous materials incident.

AWARE-5.4.1 Identify circumstances involving radioactive material in transportation where actions should be initiated to protect the lives of accident victims through carrying out rescue and providing emergency medical care.

AWARE-5.4.2 Identify the precautions necessary when providing emergency medical care to victims of hazardous materials incidents.

AWARE-5.4.3 Identify typical ignition sources found at scenes of hazardous materials incidents.

AWARE-5.5 Given the identity of various hazardous materials (name, UN/NA identification number, or type placard), identify the following response information using the current edition of the DOT Emergency Response Guidebook:

(a) Emergency Action (fire, spill, leak and first aid)
(b) Personal protective equipment necessary
(c) Initial isolation and protective action distances

AWARE-5.6 Identify the techniques used to isolate the hazard area and deny entry to unauthorized persons at hazardous materials incidents.

AWARE-6 Given either a facility or transportation scenario of hazardous materials incidents, identify the appropriate notifications to be made and how to make them, consistent with the local emergency response plan or the organization's SOP's.

AWARE-6.1 Identify the initial notification procedures for hazardous materials incidents in the local emergency response plan or the organization's SOP's.

In addition to the hazardous materials first responder awareness level training, all EMS Level 1 responders will be trained in the following competencies:

EMS Level 1

EMS(1)-1 Given an emergency involving hazardous materials, determine the hazards to the responder.

EMS(1)-1.1 Given an emergency involving hazardous materials, assess the nature, severity, and potential for expansion of the incident as it pertains to EMS responsibilities at a hazardous materials incident with evaluation of available resources and a request for any needed assistance.

EMS(1)-1.2 Given an emergency involving hazardous materials, evaluate the environmental factor as they affect the patient.

EMS(1)-1.3 Identify the information resources available and how to access the following:

1. Poison Control Center
2. Medical Control
3. Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
4. Reference guidebooks
5. Hazardous materials databases
6. Technical information centers (CHEMTREC, NRC, etc.).
7. Technical specialist
8. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR).
9. Other applicable reference materials.

EMS(1)-1.4 Given a pesticide label, hazardous materials placard, and MSDS research, identify, and explain the significance of the following.

a) Name of pesticide
b) Signal word
c) EPA registration number
d) Precautionary statement
e) Hazard statement
f) Active ingredient

EMS(1)-2 Given a hazardous materials incident, assess the patient to determine the risk of secondary contamination.

EMS(1)-2.1 Explain the basic toxicological principles relative to the assessment and treatment of victims exposed to hazardous materials.

EMS(1)-2.2 Describe how the chemical contamination of patients alters the principles of triage in hazardous materials incidents.

EMS(1)-2.3 Explain the need for patient decontamination procedures at hazardous materials incidents.

EMS(1)-2.4 Describe how the potential for secondary contamination determines the extent of patient decontamination required.

EMS(1)-2.5 Describe the way personal protective clothing, breathing apparatus, tools, and equipment become contaminated and the importance and limitations of decontamination procedures.

EMS(1)-2.6 Explain the decontamination procedures as defined by the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) for patients, personnel, personal protective equipment, and apparatus at hazardous materials incidents.

EMS(1)-3 Advise the evaluator of the names of hospital facilities in the local area capable of handling patients contaminated at a hazardous materials incident and the importance of this information.

EMS(1)-4 Given a plan of action by the incident commander, describe the EMS Level 1 responder's role in a hazardous materials incident as identified in the Local Emergency Response Plan or the organization's SOPs, and determine if the personal protective equipment provided is appropriate and if the equipment and supplies are adequate for implementing the planned response.

EMS(1)-4.1 Given specific scenarios, describe the emergency medical component of the hazardous materials response plan as developed by the authority having jurisdiction.

EMS(1)-4.2 State the Level 1 responder's role within the hazardous materials response plan as developed by the authority having jurisdiction.

EMS(1)-4.3 State the Level 1 responder's role within the Incident Management System (IMS).

EMS(1)-5 Given the name of the hazardous material and the type, duration, and extent of exposure and decontamination process, determine if available personal protective clothing and equipment are appropriate to implement the planned response.

EMS(1)-5.1 Describe the application, use, and limitations of the following:

a) Street clothing and work uniforms.
b) Structural fire fighter protective clothing.
c) Chemical protective clothing.
d) Respiratory protective equipment.

EMS(1)-6 Describe the equipment and supplies available to the Level 1 responder for the care and transportation of the hazardous materials incident patient.

EMS(1)-7 Given a plan for providing patient care at a hazardous materials incident, perform the preparations necessary to receive the patient for treatment and transport and treat the patient.

EMS(1)-7.1 Given a plan for providing patient care, the Level 1 responder shall be able to list the information that should be communicated to the medical control/receiving facility regarding the hazardous materials incident, including:

a) Type and nature of the incident.
b) Chemical involved and its physical state.
c) Number of potential patients.
d) Manifestation in patient condition.
e) Extent of decontamination the patient has received.

EMS(1)-7.2 Describe the procedure for preparing the vehicle and equipment for the patient.

EMS(1)-7.3 Demonstrate the proper donning, doffing, use, and limitations of all personal protective clothing.

EMS(1)-7.4 Describe the concept of patient transfer from the incident site to the decontamination area and then to the treatment area.

EMS(1)-8 Given a plan for providing patient care at a hazardous materials incident, demonstrate providing proper care and treatment.

EMS(1)-8.1 Describe how chemical contamination alters the assessment and care of the hazardous materials patient.

EMS(1)-8.2 List the common signs and symptoms and describe the EMS treatment protocols for the following: corrosives, pulmonary irritants, pesticides, chemical asphyxiants, and hydrocarbon solvents.

EMS(1)-8.3 Explain the potential risk with invasive procedures for hazardous materials patients.

EMS(1)-8.4 Demonstrate the ability to perform the following EMS functions within the IMS: EMS control, triage, treatment, disposition, and transportation.

EMS(1)-9.1 Identify the capabilities of the medical facilities available in the local area to receive hazardous materials patients.

EMS(1)-9.2 Identify acceptable vehicles available to transport hazardous materials patients from the treatment area to a receiving facility.

EMS(1)-9.3 List the pertinent patient information that should be communicated to the receiving facility, i.e. estimated time of arrival, age/sex, patient condition, associated injuries, routes, extent and duration of chemical exposure, pertinent medical history, signs and symptoms, vital signs, and treatment (including decontamination and patient response).

EMS(1)-9.4 Describe the actions necessary for the coordinated delivery of hazardous materials affected patients to a receiving facility.

EMS(1)-9.5 Explain the special hazards associated with the air transportation of patients exposed to hazardous materials.

EMS(1)-10 Describe the patient decontamination process.

EMS(1)-11 Perform the reporting, documentation, and follow-up required of the EMS component of the hazardous materials incident according to the local emergency response plan or the organization's SOPs.

EMS(1)-11.1 Given scenarios, list the information to be gathered regarding the exposure of the patient and the EMS provider and describe the proper reporting procedures.

EMS(1)-11.2 Given scenarios, identify situations that may necessitate critical incident stress debriefing intervention.

EMS(1)-11.3 Describe the EMS provider's role in the post-incident critique.

Summary: EMS Level 1 Responder

Audience

Large training audience. All paramedics and emergency medical technicians who respond to emergncies, including all transportation accidents, that may involve hazardous materials.

Prerequisites

None

Training

ú Classroom, physical skills lab and simulator/field instruction, with emphasis on decision making and treatment skills.

ú Competencies:
" Assessing incident scene hazards and risk of secondary contamination.
" Incident scene planning, including determining personal protective equipment needs and defining roles and responsibilities of the EMS Level 1 responder.
" Ability to perform EMS Level 1 patient preparation, care, and preparation for transport.
" Ability to perform post-incident EMS reporting, documentation, and follow-up.

Refresher Training

1. Technical Updates
2. Changes in response protocols, SOPs, and incident command procedures.
3. Renewal and resetting of incident scene decision making and cold zone treatment skills.

Emergency Medical Service Responder Level 2

Introduction

Emergency medical service (EMS) responders level 2 shall be trained to the first responder operations level as defined in OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120 (q)(ii) and NFPA 472 chapters 2 & 3, and to the competencies of EMS Level 1, as defined in these guidelines and NFPA 473, and to the competencies included in this section EMS Level 2. In addition, EMS Responders Level 2 shall meet all the training requirements of the Florida Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services Emergency Medical Services emergency medical technician and paramedic certification, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Florida Department of Labor and Employment Security, U.S. Occupational Health and Safety Administration, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), as appropriate for their jurisdiction.

Decontamination of patients or rescue personnel is a critical task. These individuals have come in contact with a foreign agent that will manifest itself either in long-term (chronic) or short-term (acute) medical conditions. Whether the ramifications of contact with the foreign agent is chronic or acute, the need to have medically trained personnel, emergency medical technicians and paramedics conducting these procedures is imperative and self-explanatory. The utilization of certified EMTs and Paramedics trained in hazardous materials to conduct the decontamination operation will result in a higher level of patient care. Properly trained EMTs & Paramedics will have the ability to provide effective and efficient patient assessment and prehospital care benefiting all who are involved in these types of operations.

Level 2 responders are expected to be able to analyze hazardous materials incidents to determine the magnitude of problem areas in terms of outcomes based on their own assessment. They also are expected to plan a response and provide the appropriate level of emergency medical care and decontamination to persons involved in hazardous materials incidents, to provide medical support to hazardous materials response personnel, and to implement and terminate the response.

Definition

Emergency medical services responders Level 2 are those persons who, in the normal course of their activities may be called upon to perform patient care and decontamination activities in the warm zone (contamination reduction zone) at hazardous materials incidents. Level 2 responders are called on to provide care to those individuals that still pose a significant risk of secondary contamination. In addition, personnel at this level shall be able to coordinate EMS activities at a hazardous materials incident and to provide medical support and decontamination of hazardous materials response personnel.

Audience

EMS responders Level 2 may be public and private-sector individuals charged with the responsibility of providing and coordinating EMS services at a hazardous materials scene. This includes selected emergency medical technicians and paramedics, and may include members of industrial fire brigades who are assigned to patient care responsibility at a hazardous materials incident onsite or offsite.

Related Health, Safety, and Performance Standards

OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120
EPA 40 CFR 311
NFPA 473, 1992 edition
NETC, Guidelines for Public Sector Hazardous Materials Training
USFA, Emergency Incident Rehabilitation Guide, FA-114

Florida Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services, Emergency Medical Services' Emergency medical technician and paramedic curricula constitutes the entry level EMS preparation for continuing hazardous materials training. At a hazardous materials incident, it is desirable that all EMS personnel be trained to the entry level as well as the hazardous materials competencies included in this document.

Appropriate Methodologies

EMS Level 2 training should include a combination of traditional classroom lecture and small group activities, table top and field exercises involving working with the incident command structure in simulated emergencies, and hands on psychomotor skill training. Content instruction should focus on contamination hazards, decontamination procedures, health monitoring treatment procedures, and incident scene roles and responsibilities. Student activities should focus on assessment and analysis of hazards and determination of appropriate procedures. Skill training should focus on implementing decontamination and patient care procedures and use of appropriate personal protective equipment. Written and practical examinations are highly recommended to measure achievement in initial training and refresher programs, and to support the employer's responsibility that all EMS Level 2 personnel are trained to competency before being called on to perform Level 2 functions at an actual emergency. Table top and field exercises should focus on acting out incident scene roles and on implementing procedures in the field environment. Refresher training should focus on technical updates, updates on changes in response protocols and SOPs, and renewal of individual skill in decontamination, patient treatment, and use of personal protective equipment.

The SERC estimates that the initial entry level training can be accomplished in approximately 24 contact hours, anticipating completion of first responder awareness training and EMS Level 1, with competent instructors knowledgeable in hazardous materials response. Annual refresher training should be accomplishable with approximately 4 contact hours. However 8 hours would be preferred.

The Florida Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services, Emergency Medical Services requires the individual to recertify regularly. It is recommended that the individual be required to demonstrate proof of refresher training consistent with existing standards and that all EMS employers and educational institutions be required to issue certificates of training for compliance with hazardous materials refresher training.

EMS Level 2 Responder Training

All EMS Level 2 personnel will be trained to the operational level utilizing the National Fire Academy Program - Initial Response to Hazardous Materials Incidents: Basic Concepts and Concept Implementation or similar curricula complying with the First Responder Operational Level as defined in 29 CFR 1910.120 and NFPA 472.

The First Responder Operational competencies included here for reference.

First Responder Operational

OPS-1 Given a hazardous materials incident scenario, demonstrate an understanding of the Public Sector Employees at the operations level.

OPS-1.1 Describe the responsibility to analyze the hazardous materials incident and determine the magnitude of the problem in terms of outcomes, and demonstrate the ability to do the following:

OPS-1.1.1 Identify the responsibility to survey the hazardous materials incident to determine the containers and materials involved, whether hazardous materials have been released, and the surrounding conditions.

OPS-1.1.2 Identify the responsibility to collect hazard and response information from MSDS, CHEMTREC, and shipper / manufacturer contacts.

OPS-1.1.3 Identify the responsibility to predict likely behavior of a material and its container.

OPS-1.1.4 Identify the responsibility to estimate the potential harm at a hazardous materials incident.

OPS-1.2 Describe the responsibility to plan an initial response within the capabilities and competencies of available personnel, personal protective equipment, and control equipment, and demonstrate the ability to do the following:

OPS-1.2.1 Identify the responsibility to describe the response objectives available for hazardous materials incidents.

OPS-1.2.2 Identify the responsibility to describe the defensive options available for a given response objective.

OPS-1.2.3 Identify the responsibility to determine whether the personal protective equipment provided is appropriate for implementing each defensive option.

OPS-1.2.4 Identify the responsibility to identify the emergency decontamination procedures.

OPS-1.3 Describe the responsibility to implement the planned response to favorably change the outcomes consistent with the local emergency response plan and the organization's SOP's, and demonstrate the ability to do the following:

OPS-1.3.1 Identify the responsibility to establish and enforce scene control procedures including control zones, emergency decontamination, and communications.

OPS-1.3.2 Identify the responsibility to initiate the incident management system (IMS) for hazardous materials incidents.

OPS-1.3.3 Identify the responsibility to don, work in, and doff personal protective equipment provided by the authority having jurisdiction.

OPS-1.3.4 Identify the responsibility to perform defensive control functions identified in the action plan.

OPS-1.4 Describe the responsibility to evaluate the progress of the actions taken to ensure that the response objectives are being met safely, effectively, and efficiently, and demonstrate the ability to do the following:

OPS-1.4.1 Identify the responsibility to evaluate the status of the defensive actions taken in accomplishing the response objectives.

OPS-1.4.2 Identify the responsibility to communicate the status of the planned response.

OPS-2 Given examples of both facility and transportation situations involving hazardous materials, survey the hazardous materials incident to determine the container and materials involved, whether hazardous materials have been released, and the surrounding conditions.

OPS-2.1 Given examples of various hazardous materials containers, identify the general shapes of containers for liquids, gases, and solids.

OPS-2.2 Given examples of various hazardous materials containers, identify the markings that differentiate one container from another.

OPS-2.3 Given examples of facility and transportation containers, identify the names of the hazardous materials in each.

OPS-2.4 Identify and list surrounding conditions that should be noted when surveying hazardous materials incidents.

OPS-2.5 Give examples of ways to verify information obtained from the surveying of a hazardous materials incident.

OPS-3 Given known hazardous materials, collect hazard and response information from MSDS, CHEMTREC/CANUTEC, and contacts with the shipper / manufacturer.

OPS-3.1 Match the definitions associated with the DOT hazard classes and divisions of hazardous materials, including refrigerated gases, and cryogenic liquids, with the class or division.

OPS-3.2 Identify two ways to obtain a MSDS in an emergency.

OPS-3.3 Using a MSDS for a specified material, identify the following hazard and response information:

(a) Physical and chemical characteristics.

(b) Physical hazards of the material.

(d) Signs and symptoms of exposure.

(e) Routes of entry.

(f) Permissible exposure limits.

(g) Responsible party contact

(h) Precautions for safe handling (including hygiene practices, protective measures, procedures for clean up of spills and leaks.

(i) Applicable control measures including personal protective equipment.

(j) Emergency and first aid procedures.

OPS-3.4 Identify the following:

(a) The type of assistance provided by CHEMTREC/CANUTEC.

(b) How to contact CHEMTREC/CANUTEC.

OPS-3.5 Identify two methods of contacting the manufacturer or shipper to obtain hazard and response information.

OPS-4 Given examples of facility and transportation hazardous materials incidents, predict the likely behavior of a material and its container in each incident.

OPS-4.1 Given situations involving known hazardous materials, interpret the hazard response information obtained from the current edition of the DOT Emergency Response Guidebook, MSDS, CHEMTREC/CANUTEC, and shipper/manufacturer contacts.

OPS-4.1.1 Match the following chemical and physical properties with their significance and impact on the behavior of the container and/or its contents:

(a) Corrosivity (pH).

(b) Flammable (explosive) range.

(d) Form (solid, liquid, gas).

(e) Ignition (autoignition) temperature.

(f) Reactivity.

(g) Specific gravity.

(h) Toxic products.

(i) Vapor density.

(j) Water solubility

OPS-4.1.2 Identify the differences among the following terms:

(a) Exposure and hazard.

(b) Exposure and contamination.

OPS-4.2 Identify three types of stress that could cause a container system to release its contents.

OPS-4.3 Identify five ways in which containers can breach.

OPS-4.4 Identify four ways in which containers can release their contents.

OPS-4.5 Identify the general testing requirements for "Type A," "Type B," and "Special Form" packaging used for radioactive materials transportations.

OPS-4.6 Identify common "industrial radiography" sources and any specialized large quantity radioactive materials packages commonly transported through the local jurisdiction by their shapes and characteristics.

OPS-4.7 Identify at least four dispersion patterns that can be created upon release of a hazardous material.

OPS-4.8 Identify the three general time frames for predicting the length of time that exposures may be in contact with the hazardous material in an endangered area.

OPS-4.9 Identify the health and physical hazards that could cause harm.

OPS-4.9.1 Identify the health hazards associated with the following terms:

(a) Acute toxicity

(b) Asphyxiant - pulmonary.

(b) Corrosive.

(e) Irritants.

(f) Sensitizer/allergen

(g) Convulsant.

(h) Chronic health hazard.

(i) Carcinogens.

(j) Infectious Agents.

(k) Systemic toxins.

(l) Mutagens.

(m) Teratogens.

OPS-5 Given simulated incidents involving hazardous materials, estimate the potential harm within the endangered area.

OPS-5.1 Identify a resource for determining the size of an endangered area surrounding conditions at a hazardous materials incident.

OPS-5.2 Given the dimensions of the endangered area and the surrounding conditions at a hazardous materials incident, estimate the number and type of exposures within that endangered area.

OPS-5.3 Identify resources available for determining the concentrations of a released hazardous material within an endangered area.

OPS-5.4 Identify the factors for determining the extent of physical, health, and safety hazards within the endangered area of a hazardous materials incident given the concentration of the released hazardous material.

OPS-6 Given simulated facility and transportation hazardous materials problems, describe the Public Sector Employee's response objectives for each problem.

OPS-6.1 Identify the steps for determining the number of exposures that could be saved by the Public Sector Employees with the resources provided by the authority having jurisdiction and operating in a defensive fashion, given an analysis of the hazardous materials problem, and the exposures already lost.

OPS-6.2 Describe the steps for determining defensive response objective given an analysis of the hazardous materials incident.

OPS-7 Given simulated facility and transportation hazardous materials problems, identify the defensive options for each response objective.

OPS-7.1 Identify the defensive options to accomplish a given response objective.

OPS-7.2 Identify the purpose for, and the procedures, equipment, and safety precautions used with each of the following control techniques:

(a) Absorption.

(b) Dike, dam, diversion, retention.

(d) Vapor dispersion.

(e) Vapor suppression.

OPS-8 Given the name of a hazardous material involved and the anticipated type of exposure, determine whether available personal protective equipment is appropriate for implementing a defensive option.

OPS-8.1 Identify the appropriate respiratory protection required for a given defensive option.

OPS-8.1.1 Identify the three type of respiratory protection and the advantages and limitations presented by the use of each at hazardous materials incidents.

OPS-8.1.2 Identify the required physical capabilities and limitations of personnel working in positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus.

OPS-8.2 Identify the appropriate personal protective equipment required for a given defensive option.

OPS-8.2.1 Identify skin contact hazards encountered at hazardous materials incidents.

OPS-8.2.2 Identify the purpose, advantages, and limitations of the following protective clothing at hazardous materials incidents:

(a) Structural fire fighting clothing.

(b) High temperature protective clothing.

1. Liquid splash protective clothing.
2. Vapor protective clothing

OPS-9 Given a plan of action for a hazardous materials incident, identify emergency decontamination procedures.

OPS-9.1 Identify ways that personnel, personal protective equipment, apparatus, and tools and equipment become contaminated.

OPS-9.2 Describe how the potential for secondary contamination determines the need for emergency contamination procedures.

OPS-9.3 Identify the purpose of emergency decontamination at hazardous materials incidents.

OPS-9.4 Identify the advantages and limitations of emergency decontamination procedures.

OPS-9.5 Identify appropriate, simple procedures for dealing with accident victims with life- threatening injuries who are know or suspected to be contaminated with radioactive material.

OPS-10 Given scenarios for facility and/or transportation hazardous materials incidents, identify how to establish and enforce scene control including control zones, emergency decontamination, and communications.

OPS-10.1 Identify the procedures for establishing scene control through control zones.

OPS-10.1.1 Identify the criteria for determining the locations of the control zones at hazardous materials incidents.

OPS-10.2 Identify the basic techniques for the following protective actions at hazardous materials incidents.

(a) Evacuation

(b) In-place protection

OPS-10.3 Identify the considerations associated with locating emergency decontamination.

OPS-10.4 Demonstrate the ability to perform emergency decontamination.

OPS-10.5 Identify the items to be considered in a safety briefing prior to allowing personnel to work on a hazardous materials incident.

OPS-11 Given a simulated facility and/or transportation hazardous materials incidents, initiate the incident management system (IMS) specified in the local emergency response plan and the organizations SOP's.

OPS-11.1 Identify the role of the Public Sector Employees at the operational level during hazardous materials incidents as specified in the local emergency response plan and the organizations SOP's.

OPS-11.2 Identify the levels of hazardous materials incidents as defined in the local emergency response plan.

OPS-11.3 Identify the purpose, need, benefits, and elements of an IMS at hazardous materials incidents.

OPS-11.4 Identify the considerations for determining the location of the command post for a hazardous materials incident.

OPS-11.5 Identify the procedures for requesting additional resources at a hazardous materials incident.

OPS-11.6 Identify the responsibilities of the safety officer.

OPS-12 Demonstrate the ability to don, work in, and doff the personal protective equipment provided by the authority having jurisdiction.

OPS-12.1 Identify the importance of the buddy system in implementing the planned defensive options.

OPS-12.2 Identify the importance of the backup personnel in implementing the planned defensive actions.

OPS-12.3 Identify the safety precautions to be observed when approaching and working at hazardous materials incidents.

OPS-12.4 Identify the signs and symptoms of heat and cold stress.

OPS-12.5 Identify the physical capabilities required for and the limitations of personnel working in the personal protective equipment as provided by the authority having jurisdiction.

OPS-12.6 Match the function of the operational components of the positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus provided the Public Sector Employees to the name of the component.

OPS-12.7 Identify the procedures for cleaning, sanitizing, and inspecting respiratory protective equipment.

OPS-12.8 Identify the procedures for donning, working in, and doffing positive pressure self- contained breathing apparatus.

OPS-12.9 Demonstrate donning, working in, and doffing positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus. (Note: This competency is for familiarization purposes only and additional, specific training in the safe use of positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus is required.)

OPS-13 Given a plan of action for a hazardous materials incident within his/her capabilities, demonstrate the ability to perform the defensive control actions set out in the plan.

OPS-13.1 Understand the types of fire fighting foam(s) or vapor suppressing agent(s) and foam equipment furnished by the authority having jurisdiction, understand the proper application of the fire fighting foam(s) or vapor suppressing agents on a spill or fire involving hazardous materials.

OPS-13.1.1 Identify the characteristics and applicability of the following types of foams:

(a) Protein.

(b) Fluoroprotein.

1. Polar solvent alcohol-resistant concentrates.
2. Hazardous materials concentrates

(d) Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF).

(e) High expansion

OPS-13.2 Given the appropriate tools and equipment, describe how to perform the following defensive control activities:

(a) Absorption

(b) Dike, dam, diversion, and retention.

(d) Vapor dispersion.

(e) Vapor suppression.

OPS-13.3 Understand the location and use of the mechanical, hydraulic, and air emergency remote shut-off devices.

OPS-13.4 Describe the objectives and dangers of search and rescue missions at hazardous materials incidents.

OPS-14 Given simulated facility and/or transportation hazardous materials incidents, evaluate the status of the defensive actions taken in accomplishing the response objectives.

OPS-14.1 Identify the considerations for evaluating whether defensive options are effective in accomplishing the objectives.

OPS-14.2 Describe the circumstances under which it would be prudent to pull back from a hazardous materials incident.

OPS-15 Given simulated facility and/or transportation hazardous materials incidents, demonstrate communicating the status of the planned response to the incident commander through the normal chain of command.

OPS-15.1 Identify the methods for communicating the status of the planned response to the incident commander through the normal chain of command.

OPS-15.2 Identify the methods for immediate notification of the incident commander and other response personnel about critical emergency conditions at the incident.

In addition to the hazardous materials first responder operational level training, all EMS Level 2 responders will be trained in the following competencies.

EMS Level 2

EMS(2)-1 Determine the hazards present to both the responder and the patient in a hazardous materials incident.

EMS(2)-1.1 Define the following chemical and physical properties and describe their importance in the risk assessment process:

a. Boiling point.
b. Flammable (explosive) limits (LEL/UEL, LFL/UFL)
c. Flash point
d. Ignition temperature
e. Vapor density
f. Water solubility

EMS(2)-1.2 Define alpha, beta, and gamma radiation

EMS(2)-1.3 Define the following toxicological terms and explain their use in the risk assessment process:

a. Threshold limit value (TLV-TWA)
b. Lethal concentration and doses
c. Parts per million/billion (ppm/ppb)
d. Permissible exposure limit (PEL)
e. Short term exposure limit (STEL)
f. Ceiling level (TLV-C)

EMS(2)-1.4 Given a specific hazardous material and using the information available to the level 2 responder, demonstrate extracting appropriate information about the physical characteristics, chemical properties, hazards, and suggested medical response considerations.

EMS(2)-1.5 Assess the patient and conditions to determine the risk of secondary contamination.

EMS(2)-1.6 Identify sources of technical information for performance of patient decontamination.

EMS(2)-1.7 Identify the factors that influence the decision of when and where to treat the patient and the extent of patient care, i.e., hazardous material toxicity, patient condition, and availability of decontamination.

EMS(2)-2 Given a plan of action by the incident commanded, describe the role of the EMS Level 2 responder at a hazardous materials incident as identified in the local emergency response plan or SOPs.

EMS(2)-2.1 Given a plan of action, the Level 2 responder shall be able to describe the importance of coordination between various agencies at the hazardous materials incident.

EMS(2)-2.2 Given a hazardous materials incident, plan a response to provide the appropriate level of emergency care to persons involved in hazardous materials incidents and to provide support to hazardous materials support personnel.

EMS(2)-2.3 Given a hazardous materials incident scenario, assess the problem and formulate and implement a plan that includes EMS control activities, the EMS component of the IMS, medical monitoring of personnel using personal protective clothing, triage, and medical treatment of chemically contaminated individuals including proper decontamination, and documentation of exposure information.

EMS(2)-2.4 Describe the importance of pre-incident planning relating to specific areas.

EMS(2)-2.5 Describe the considerations associated with the placement, location, and setup of the patient decontamination site.

EMS(2)-2.6 Explain the advantages and limitations of techniques of various decontamination procedures.

EMS(2)-2.7 Describe when it may be prudent to pull back from a hazardous materials incident.

EMS(2)-2.8 Determine if the personal protective equipment provided is adequate and/or appropriate by type, application, use, and limitations.

EMS(2)-2.9 Demonstrate how to interpret a chemical compatibility chart for chemical protective clothing.

EMS(2)-3 Given a plan for providing patient care at a hazardous materials incident, perform the preparations necessary to receive the patient for decontamination, treatment, and transport; coordinate and manage the EMS component of the incident and perform medical support of hazardous materials response personnel.

EMS(2)-3.1 Given a plan for providing patient care, demonstrate the proper donning, doffing, and use of personal protective equipment.

EMS(2)-3.2 Perform the necessary decontamination and treatment of a hazardous materials patient according to the level of training.

EMS(2)-3.3 Given a simulated hazardous materials incident and using locally available resources, demonstrate the implementation and execution of patient decontamination procedures.

EMS(2)-3.4 Explain the principles of emergency decontamination and its application to critically ill patients.

EMS(2)-3.5 Demonstrate the ability to coordinate patient care activities including treatment, disposition, and transport of patients.

EMS(2)-3.6 Given a simulated hazardous materials incident, demonstrate the ability to establish and manage the EMS component of an incident management system (IMS).

EMS(2)-3.7 Explain the components of pre-entry and post-entry assessment to include vital signs, body weight, general health, neurological status, and electrocardiograph rhythm strip.

EMS(2)-3.8 Explain hydration, physical fitness, environmental factors, activity level, level of PPE, and duration of entry and how they influence heat stress for hazardous materials response personnel.

EMS(2)-3.9 Explain the medical monitoring protocols and demonstrate medical monitoring procedures for personnel at the scene of a hazardous materials incident.

EMS(2)-3.10 Describe the criteria for site selection of a medical monitoring station.

EMS(2)-3.11 Demonstrate the ability to interpret and analyze data obtained from medical monitoring of hazardous material response personnel.

EMS(2)-3.12 Given a simulated hazardous materials incident, demonstrate proper documentation of medical monitoring.

EMS(2)-3.13 Describe how a rehabilitation sector is established and what activities need to take place.

EMS(2)-4 The Level 2 responder, upon the termination of a hazardous materials incident, shall complete the reporting, documentation, and EMS termination activities as required by the local emergency response plan or the organization's SOPs.

EMS(2)-4.1 Given plans and SOPs, describe the information regarding incident EMS activities that should be relayed through the chain of command to the incident commander.

EMS(2)-4.2 Describe the activities required in terminating the EMS component of a hazardous materials incident.

EMS(2)-4.3 Describe the process and demonstrate the ability to conduct the EMS portion of an incident critique.

EMS(2)-4.4 Describe the process of making revisions to EMS operating procedures and response capabilities as a result of information learned.

EMS(2)-4.5 Describe the necessary procedures required to decontaminate all equipment to render it back in service and the proper disposal of equipment that requires the same.

Summary EMS Level 2 Responder

Audience

Moderate size training audience. Paramedics and EMTs who may be called upon to conduct decontamination and patient care in the warm zone of a hazardous materials incident.

Prerequisites

First Responder Awareness training (29CFR1910.120, NFPA 472)
First Responder Operational training (29CFR1910.120, NFPA 472)
EMS Level 1 Responder training

Training

ú Classroom, physical skill lab and simulator / field instruction, with emphasize on decision making and treatment skills.

ú Competencies:
" Assessing incident scene hazards and risk of patient secondary contamination.
" Incident scene response planning including determining personal protective equipment needs and defining roles and responsibilities of EMS Level 2 responders.
" Ability to perform EMS Level 2 patient decontamination and treatment in the warm zone (contamination reduction zone) of an incident scene.
" Ability to perform post-incident EMS reporting, documentation and follow-up.

Refresher Programs

1. Technical updates
2. Change in response protocols and incident command system SOPs.
3. Renewal and retesting of incident scene decision making and warm zone decontamination and treatment skills.

_____________________________________
This document prepared by the South Tech Fire Academy, 1300 SW 30 Avenue, Boynton Beach, Florida, for the SERC Hazardous Materials Training Task Force.

FLORIDA STATE EMERGENCY RESPONSE COMMISSION

Guideline for Law Enforcement Officers
Hazardous Materials Training

Guidelines for Law Enforcement Officers Hazardous Materials Training

Introduction

Law Enforcement Officers at the awareness level shall be trained to meet the competencies of the awareness level. In addition, Law Enforcement Officers at the awareness level shall receive training to meet requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Florida Department of Labor and Employment Security, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and the US. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as appropriate for their jurisdictions. Law Enforcement Officers that respond or can be expected to respond to a hazardous materials incident must be knowledgeable of 29 CFR 1910.120 and 40 CFR 311 training and emergency response requirements.

Definition

Law Enforcement Officers at the awareness level are personnel who are likely to discover or witness a hazardous materials emergency, or in the normal course of their duties may be the first on the scene of an emergency involving hazardous materials. Law Enforcement Officers at the awareness level are expected to recognize hazardous materials are present, protect themselves, call for trained personnel, and secure the area. The most important duty of these personnel is to make proper notification in order to begin the emergency response sequence. This level of training anticipates a response role which involves no potential for exposure to the hazards related to the hazardous materials involved in an incident.

Audience

All Law Enforcement Officers who normally patrol, or who may be called upon to respond to the scene of an incident to perform duties associated with cold zone activities in support of an incident command system. Cold zone activities may include the security of perimeters, security of evacuated areas, participation within the incident command system, traffic control, etc., and must be consistent with the local emergency response plan or organization's standard operating procedures.

Related Health and Safety Standards

OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120 Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response
EPA 40 CFR 311 Worker Protection
Guidelines for Public Sector Hazardous Materials Training, NETC

Appropriate Methodologies

Law Enforcement Officer Awareness training should be conducted using a mix of lecture and media presentations with individual and small group exercises. The exercises should consist of activities practicing identification and recognition of hazardous materials from scenario descriptions and using information sources such as the DOT Emergency Response Guidebook to establish the presence of hazardous materials in the scenarios. Competency should be measured by written examination.

Refresher training occurring annually, should focus on skill renewal in using information sources to recognize and identify hazardous materials.

The SERC estimates that the initial training outlined can be accomplished in approximately 8 contact hours with competent instructors knowledgable in hazardous materials response. Annual refresher should be accomplishable with approximately 4 contact hours of training.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement requires the individual to recertify regularly. It is recommended that the individual be required to demonstrate proof of refresher training consistent with the standards and that all Law Enforcement Agencies and Law Enforcement training institutions be required to issue certificates of training for compliance with initial and refresher hazardous materials training.

Training

All Law Enforcement Officers will be trained to meet the following competencies as a minimum:

Law Enforcement Level 1

LAW(1)-1 Given a hazardous materials incident scenario, demonstrate an understanding of the role of the Law Enforcement Officer at the awareness level.

LAW(1)-1.1 Describe the responsibility to analyze the incident to determine the hazardous materials present and the basic hazard and response information for each type of hazardous material, and demonstrate the ability to do the following:

LAW(1)-1.1.1 Identify the responsibility to detect the presence of hazardous materials.

LAW(1)-1.1.2 Identify the responsibilities to survey a hazardous materials incident, from a safe location, to identify the name, UN/NA identification number, or type placard applied for any hazardous material.

LAW(1)-1.2 Describe the responsibilities to collect hazard information from the current edition of the DOT Emergency Response Guidebook.

LAW(1)-1.3 Describe the responsibility to implement actions consistent with the local emergency response plan, the organization's SOP's and the current edition of the DOT Emergency Response Guidebook, and demonstrate the ability to do the following:

LAW(1)-1.3.1 Identify the responsibility to initiate protective actions consistent with the local emergency response plan, the organization's SOP's, and the current edition of the DOT Emergency Response Guidebook.

LAW(1)-1.3.2 Identify the responsibility to initiate the notification process specified in the local emergency response plan and the organization's SOP's.

LAW(1)-2 Given incident scenarios involving facility and/or transportation situations with and without hazardous materials present, identify those situations where hazardous materials are present.

LAW(1)-2.1 Identify the definition of hazardous materials.

LAW(1)-2.2 Identify the DOT hazard classes and divisions of hazardous materials and identify common examples of each hazard class or division.

LAW(1)-2.3 Identify the primary hazards associated with each of the DOT hazard classes and divisions of hazardous materials by hazard class or division.

LAW(1)-2.4 Identify the difference between hazardous materials emergencies and other emergencies.

LAW(1)-2.5 Identify typical occupancies and locations in the community where hazardous materials are manufactured, stored, transported, used, or disposed of.

LAW(1)-2.6 Identify typical container shapes that may indicate hazardous materials.

LAW(1)-2.7 Identify facility and transportation markings and colors that indicate hazardous materials, including: (a) UN/NA identification number; (b) NFPA 704 markings; (c) military hazardous materials markings; (d) special hazard communication markings; (e) pipeline marker; (f) container markings.

LAW(1)-2.7.1 Given an NFPA 704 marking, identify the significance of the colors, numbers, and special symbols.

LAW(1)-2.8 Identify UN and U.S. DOT placards and labels that indicate hazardous materials.

LAW(1)-2.9 Identify the basic information on material safety data sheets (MSDS) and shipping papers that indicate hazardous materials, and identify how to locate the documents.

LAW(1)-2.10 Identify examples of clues (other then occupancy/location, container shape, markings/color, placards/labels, and shipping papers) that use the senses of sight, sound, and odor to indicate the presence of hazardous materials.

LAW(1)-2.11 Describe the limitations of using the senses in determining the presence or absence of hazardous materials.

LAW(1)-3 Given simulated facility and transportation incidents involving hazardous materials, identify the hazardous material(s) in each situation by name, UN/NA identification number, and/or type placard applied.

LAW(1)-3.1 Identify difficulties encountered in determining the specific names of hazardous materials in both facilities and transportation.

LAW(1)-3.2 Identify the significance of the terms "Type A," "Type B," and "Special Form" as they relate to radioactive materials packaging.

LAW(1)-3.3 Identify additional information concerning radionuclide identity and activity provided on radioactive material labels and shipping papers.

LAW(1)-3.4 Identify additional information concerning physical and chemical form and packaging type provided on radioactive materials shipping papers.

LAW(1)-3.5 Identify sources for obtaining the names of, UN/NA identification numbers for, or type of placards associated with hazardous materials in transportation.

LAW(1)-3.6 Identify sources for obtaining the names of hazardous materials in a facility.

LAW(1)-4 Given the identity of various hazardous materials (name, UN/NA number, or type placard), identify the fire, explosion, and health hazard information for each material using the current edition of the DOT Emergency Response Guidebook.

LAW(1)-4.1 Identify the way hazardous materials are harmful to people, the environment, and property at hazardous materials incidents.

LAW(1)-4.2 Identify the general routes of entry for human exposure to hazardous materials.

LAW(1)-4.3 Given the current edition of the DOT Emergency Response Guidebook, identify the three methods for determining the appropriate guide page for a specific hazardous material.

LAW(1)-4.4 Given the current edition of the DOT Emergency Response Guidebook, identify the two general types of hazards found on each guide page.

LAW(1)-4.5 Identify the difficulties encountered in using the senses to recognize radioactive material releases and radiation exposure.

LAW(1)-5 Given simulated facility and transportation hazardous materials incidents, identify the actions to be taken to protect themselves and others and to control access to the scene using the local emergency response plan, the organization's SOP's, or the current edition of the DOT Emergency Response Guidebook.

LAW(1)-5.1 Identify the location of both the local emergency response plan and the organization's SOP's.

LAW(1)-5.2.1 Given a simulated facility and/or transportation hazardous materials incidents, initiate the incident management system (IMS) specified in the local emergency response plan and the organizations SOP's.

LAW(1)-5.2 Given a copy of the current edition of the DOT Emergency Response Guidebook, describe the difference between the protective action distances in the orange-bordered guide pages and the green-bordered pages in the document.

LAW(1)-5.2.1 Identify the basic techniques for the following protective actions at hazardous materials incidents.

(a) Evacuation

(b) In-place protection

LAW(1)-5.3 Given the local emergency response plan or the organization's SOP's, identify the role of the Law Enforcement Officer at the awareness level during a hazardous material incident.

LAW(1)-5.4 Given the local emergency response plan or the organization's SOP's, identify the basic precautions to be taken to protect herself/himself and others in a hazardous materials incident.

LAW(1)-5.4.1 Identify circumstances involving radioactive material in transportation where actions should be initiated to protect the lives of accident victims through carrying out rescue and providing emergency medical care.

LAW(1)-5.4.2 Identify the precautions necessary when providing emergency medical care to victims of hazardous materials incidents.

LAW(1)-5.4.3 Identify typical ignition sources found at scenes of hazardous materials incidents.

LAW(1)-5.5 Given the identity of various hazardous materials (name, UN/NA identification number, or type placard), identify the following response information using the current edition of the DOT Emergency Response Guidebook:

(a) Emergency Action (fire, spill, leak and first aid)
(b) Personal protective equipment necessary
(c) Initial isolation and protective action distances

LAW(1)-5.6 Identify the techniques used to isolate the hazard area and deny entry to unauthorized persons at hazardous materials incidents.

LAW(1)-6 Given either a facility or transportation scenario of hazardous materials incidents, identify the appropriate notifications to be made and how to make them, consistent with the local emergency response plan or the organization's SOP's.

LAW(1)-6.1 Identify the initial notification procedures for hazardous materials incidents in the local emergency response plan or the organization's SOP's.

Summary: Law Enforcement Officer Awareness Level

Audience

Large training audience. All current officers and recruit candidates who respond to, or may encounter in the normal course of their duties, incidents involving hazardous materials.

Prerequisites

None

Training

Classroom, utilizing lecture with discussion and media presentations. Individual and small group exercises with instructor guidance. Competency testing by written examination.

Refresher Training

To occur annually;
1. Technical updates
2. Response plan and SOP review
3. Ability to perform Awareness level competencies

_________________________________

This document prepared by the South Tech Fire Academy, 1300 SW 30 Avenue, Boynton Beach, Florida, for the SERC Hazardous Materials Training Task Force.

FLORIDA STATE EMERGENCY RESPONSE COMMISSION

Guidelines for Fire Fighters
Hazardous Materials Training

Guidelines for Fire Fighters Hazardous Materials Training

Introduction

Fire Fighters shall be trained to meet all the competencies of the awareness and operational levels. In addition, Fire Fighters at the operational level shall receive training to meet requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Florida Department of Labor and Employment Security, Florida Department of Insurance, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and the US. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as appropriate for their jurisdictions. Fire Fighters that respond or can be expected to respond to a hazardous materials incident must be knowledgeable of 29 CFR 1910.120 and 40 CFR 311 training and emergency response requirements.

Definition

Fire Fighters at the operational level are personnel who respond to releases or potential releases, as part of the initial response to protect people, property, and the environment from the effects of a hazardous materials emergency. Operational level Fire Fighters are trained to take defensive actions rather then stop the release. Their function is to confine the release from a safe distance, keep it from spreading, and prevent exposures. Fire Fighters at the operational level must have knowledge of the awareness level. The awareness level competencies are included in this document for reference, it must be understood that the operational level builds upon the knowledge obtained during awareness level training.

Audience

All Fire Fighters who may be called upon to respond to a hazardous materials incident. Fire Fighters at the operational level are typically those persons who are first to arrive at the scene of a hazardous materials incident. Generally, they are not members of a hazardous materials response team.

Related Health and Safety Standards

OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120 Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response
EPA 40 CFR 311 Worker Protection
Guidelines for Public Sector Hazardous Materials Training, NETC
NFPA 472 Standard for Competencies for Hazardous Materials Responders
NFPA 1561 Standard on Fire Department Incident Management System

Appropriate Methodologies

Fire Fighter operational level training is best conducted in a classroom environment, with opportunities for small and large group exercises either in classroom or field exercise in conjunction with the training. Training awareness level in conjunction with operational level is acceptable. Lectures with small group activities are appropriate instructional delivery of much of the material. However, incident scene organization and command drill and practice will require large group simulated incidents which are best conducted in a simulator or as a field exercise.

Refresher training occurring annually, should include: (1) competency retesting of all response skills, (2) technical information updates, and (3) critique of incident scene decision-making using simulated emergencies.

The SERC estimates that the training outlined above can be accomplished in a minimum of 16 hours with competent instructors knowledgable in hazardous materials response when personnel are trained to the awareness level . The minimum of 24 hours for new/recruit and previously untrained fire fighters is recommended. Annual refresher should be accomplished with a minimum of 8 hours training.
The Florida Department of Insurance, Florida State Fire Marshal's Office, currently requires a minimum of 24 hours for recruit fire fighters seeking a Fire Fighter Certificate of Compliance. All career fire fighters are required to maintain a certificate of compliance. With the adoption of this document we hope to encourage the volunteer fire service agencies of Florida to seek the same level of training in order to ensure personal safety during a hazardous materials incident in compliance with 29 CFR 1910.120 and 40 CFR 311. There is currently no requirement for the certification or recertification of volunteer fire fighters. Fire Service agencies and Fire Service training institutions should be required to issue certificates of training for compliance with both initial and refresher hazardous materials training.

Training

Employers, including volunteer agency responsible parties, are required to ensure that Fire Fighters demonstrate competency in the skills required. All Fire Fighters will be trained to the operational level utilizing the National Fire Academy Program - Initial Response to Hazardous Materials Incidents: Basic Concepts and Concept Implementation or similar curricula complying with the First Responder Awareness and Operational Level as defined in 29 CFR 1910.120 and NFPA 472.

Fire Fighters will be trained to meet all the following competencies as a minimum:

For the purpose of clarification, the prerequisite awareness competencies are included below.

First Responder Awareness

AWARE-1 Given a hazardous materials incident scenario, demonstrate an understanding of the role of the Fire Fighter at the awareness level.