"Tli Cho Landtran Transport Ltd."
EMERGENCY RESPONSE MANUAL
Tli Cho Landtran Transport Ltd. 358 Old Airport Road, PO Box 577 Yellowknife, NWT X1A 2N4
Phone: (867) 873-4044 Fax: (867) 873-2780
Revised November 8, 2007 "TABLE OF CONTENT"
Section Content
1 Table of Content
2 Emergency Preparedness Emergency Evacuation Procedures
3 Emergency Spill Reporting Emergency Response Assistance List Hazardous Material "Contingency Plan" Emergency Response Numbers Yellowknife Edmonton Hay River, Fort Simpson, Fort Smith Inuvik Whitehorse Vancouver Provincial Emergency Authorities
4 Transportation Emergency Response and Fire Section Spill Response Procedures
5 Harmful and Flammable Substances
6 Chemical Response
7 Safety Policy Bomb Threat
8 Definitions
9 Loss Control Report
10 Material Profiles EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS:
Purpose:
Documentation must be prepared to outline responsibilities and required actions of Tli Cho Landtran Transport Ltd. "Tli Cho" in the event of an emergency situation occurring.
An emergency situation is any incident that has the potential to cause immediate harm to workers, property, public and/or the environment. Emergencies do not occur as a planned event. Therefore all workers and sub-contractors are required to know their basic responsibilities, so they will be able to react positively in an emergency situation. There is always a need for the worker to practice or at least be questioned as to their duties in the event of an emergency.
In any emergency situation, time is the most critical factor in prompt implementation of an emergency response plan. The quicker the initiation, the more orderly and effective the operation. The first person that notices an incident must activate the plan immediately, "by contacting the necessary company personnel" as explained with-in the Company's orientation.
No worker or sub-contractor will discuss any incident either on or off the record with the media. Politely decline the request for information and direct them to the company designate. "If there is an immediate need for media response, only the company president or their designate may release the following statement".
"We are currently dealing with the emergency situation to ensure the safety of personnel, property, public and the environment. A more comprehensive statement will be released as soon as more factual information has been determined".
EMERGENCY RESPONSE PROCEDURES:
“Tli Cho’s” Emergency Response Plan is structured for use in conjunction with other existing field and corporate response plans as necessary. When “Tli Cho” is contracting services to mine site, or other clients, it will incorporate clients emergency response plans into our own company plans to ensure the fullest response coverage is maintained.
These plans include:
• De Beers Canada Contingency Plans • Nuna Logistics Emergency Spill Plan • Tibbitt to Contwoyto Winter Road Emergency Response/Spill Contingency Plan
It is the responsibility of all “Tli Cho” workers/sub-contractors to contact the senior Tli Cho on-site supervisor in the event of an emergency. It will be this person’s responsibility to begin the initial emergency response plan. The senior supervisor will be responsible for the following:
1. Instruct workers/sub-contractors to protect themselves from risk.
• Sound the alarm. • Shut down potential ignition sources. • Leave the immediate area. • Report to a pre-determined safe meeting area for a head count. • Assist the injured.
2. Secure the area to prevent further damage or injuries.
• Prevent access by cordoning off the area.
3. Access the situation.
• List potential hazards and possible consequences.
• Determine the appropriate response.
• Do not allow anyone back on site until it has been determined to be safe.
• Assist if adequately trained and protected.
4. Investigate the incident with the assistance of “Tli Cho” Safety and Compliance Department.
5. Restore the worksite. "EMERGENCY EVACUATION PROCEDURES" "Every site could be different: check all new sites"
SHOULD THE ALARM SOUND, ALL EMPLOYEES MUST FOLLOW THESE PROCEDURES:
1 Ensure that you are familiar with the evacuation routes posted in each area.
2 STOP, what you are doing and leave the building immediately by the nearest exit.
3 DO NOT STOP OR DETOUR TO PICK UP PERSONAL BELONGINGS.
4 DO NOT GO TO YOUR CAR
5 Once outside, keep roadways clear for emergency crews and remain at least 15 metres away from any fire hydrants.
6 REPORT TO YOUR MEETING AREA SO THAT YOU CAN BE ACCOUNTED FOR AND DO NOT LEAVE THE MEETING AREA OR REENTER THE BUILDING UNTIL YOU HAVE BEEN AUTHORIZED TO DO BY YOUR SUPERVISOR
7 Any injuries or toxic exposures to yourself or any other personnel must be reported to your supervisor immediately.
8 Follow all instructions given by your supervisor and emergency personnel.
9 DO NOT LEAVE THE AREA TO GO HOME OR ELSEWHERE UNTIL AUTHORIZED TO DO SO.
YOUR MEETING AREA WILL BE DESIGNATED BY THE SITE, CHECK ALL NEW SITES AS TO YOUR LOCATIONS. EMERGENCY SPILL REPORTING
(24 HOURS)
DANGEROUS GOODS
COMPLIANCE CENTRE
ALBERTA 1-800-272-9600 YELLOWKNIFE (867) 920-8130
Tli Cho Landtran Transport Ltd.
(867) 873-4044 EMERGENCY RESPONSE ASSISTANCE LIST
SITE LOCATION: Yellowknife, NT Area Code 867 COMPANY DESIGNATE: Neil McDougall PHONE # Office: 873-4044, Cell: 445-7384
Ambulance YK Fire Dept. 873-2222
Police RCMP 669-1111
Fire YK Dept. 873-2222
Doctor Medical Clinic 669-4122
Hospital Stanton Regional 669-4111
Poison Centre Stanton Regional 669-4100
OH&S WCB 920-3888
WCB (Claims) Account #25526 920-3888
NWT Environmental Yellowknife 920-8130
DIAND Yellowknife 669-2794 444-2382
"If the company finds that they have work, which takes them to a new or different area, local emergency numbers are to be obtained for that new or different area prior to work commencing". TLI CHO LANDTRAN TRANSPORT LTD.
"HAZARDOUS MATERIALS CONTINGENCY PLAN"
COMPANY POLICY
It is the policy of Tli Cho Landtran Transport Ltd. to prevent spills
• Through the use of safe road design, where possible
• Strict operating procedures and
• Through employee training and orientations
In the event of a spill, every effort will be made to contain and clean up the spill. All employees involved with handling, preparing for transportation, or transporting hazardous goods must be familiar with this plan. This plan will be reviewed annually and changed if and when required. INTRODUCTION
"Tli Cho Landtran Transport Ltd.'' handles and transports different types of dangerous goods during the different phases of its operation. To a lesser degree some of the materials are transported at a lower rate at different times of the year.
Incidents happen and occasionally hazardous materials are involved. In order to lessen any adverse environmental impact the company has initiated an Emergency Spill recovery Program. The Program consists of training personnel. both management and workers, who have specific duties and areas of responsibility. A combination of expertise and equipment is utilized to ensure rapid spill recovery clean-up in order to minimize environmental impact caused by spilled materials.
Due to "Tli Cho" experience and expertise in the Dangerous occurrence field, the company has in the past, and can expect in the future to be called upon to recover spills and equipment at various locations within its operating areas.
This contingency plan is designed specifically to satisfy the requirements of "Tli Cho" and to comply With Federal Dangerous Goods legislation passed in March 1985. The plan has the potential of wide application as its design allows for different commodities and conditions.
Should it be required, there is. nation-Aide, a large resource of equipment and personnel: for example, vacuum trucks, large cranes, etc. as well as chemical and petroleum industry Emergency Response Teams.
Because of logistical times involved, "Tli Cho" decided not to include any of the above resources in this contingency plan. Instead. "Tli Cho" has chosen to base the plan on resources that are directly available to it and can be mobilized within a short time period, say, not in excess of six hours.
Core and supervisory personnel receive training in prevention, control and recovery through in service programs. Advanced and additional training is available to company and staff through a variety of agencies nation wide and is continuous.
As is required by the new legislation, all of our drivers receive basic dangerous good training when or shortly after they are hired. "Tli Cho” as a matter of principle, does not accept training provided to employees by former employers, but prefers to initiate its own training programs.
“Tli Cho" takes pride in presenting this contingency plan. The company feels the plan directly reflects our emergency response capabilities and provides the reader with an indication of our commitment towards an environmentally safe operation.
SPILL RESPONSE TEAM ORGANIZATION AND DUTIES
MANAGEMENT
ON SCENE COMMANDER
RESPONSE TEAM
SPILL CONTAINMENT SPILL RECOVERY CREW CREW
EQUIPMENT RECOVERY CREW
Responsibilities as Members of Spill Response Team:
The “Tli Cho” Spill Response Team consists of:
• Management Representative • On-Scene Commander (Senior Supervisor) • Response Team • Equipment Operators • Outside Assistance Agencies
The “Tli Cho” on-site Supervisor will initiate the Spill Response Plan. The name of the on-site Supervisor will vary from project to project. All on-site Supervisors are in possession of satellite telephones and have been directed to immediately contact the Tli Cho Landtran Safety and Compliance Supervisor in the event of any spill.
The Tli Cho Landtran Safety and Compliance Supervisor has been identified as the Environmental Officer for all operations relating to spills or suspected spills. The Safety and Compliance Supervisor will act as the senior manager representing the company.
Described in this section are the various areas of responsibility relating to the different components of the Spill Response Team.
Management: (Responsible Person – Neil McDougall – Safety and Compliance Supervisor – 867-873-4044 or 867-445-7384)
• Ensure that transport equipment is in working order. • Ensure that where possible use roads are is good condition • Ensure that the On Scene Commander has been properly trained. • Ensure that all involved employee and sub-contractors are trained • Ensure that the spill response equipment is available and maintained. • Ensure that all spills are reported to the NT/NU 24-hour Spill Report Line at 867-920- 3180 • Deals with the media. . Ensure that all spills on the Winter Road are reported to DIAND Land Use Inspector at 867-669-2794 or 444-2382
On-Scene Commander: (Senior on-site “Tli Cho” Supervisor)
• Receives the following training; On Scene Spill Commander Training Spill Containment and Recovery Transportation and Spill Response for Dangerous Goods Becomes familiar with Company library material related to Spill Response. • Trains employees and sub-contractors on spill prevention and initial response. • Trains response crews • Maintains spill response equipment. • Acts as On Scene Commander in the event of a spill: • mobilizes Response Crews • manages and directs all operations related to containment, clean up and disposal • liaison with government agencies • monitors site as required to ensure all spilled material is removed
Response Crew:
• Must become familiar with techniques, materials and equipment used for spill response • Must be familiar with Company policy on spill prevention and response
Equipment Operators:
• Must be familiar with the hazardous properties and characteristics of cargo hauled • Must be familiar with Company procedures for spill containment • Must ensure that basic spill response equipment is on the vehicle and initial response action card is in the vehicle Must radio or phone the Company immediately in the event of a spill from their unit • Must assist other operators in attempting to contain spill until Spill Response Team arrives • Must keep a diary of their actions during spill • Refers all media enquires to management.
Prevention, Training and Practice Drills:
"Tli Cho" wants to prevent spills of hazardous materials. This helps to eliminate environmental damage and saves money in time, equipment etc. lost, clean up costs and fines levied under various environmental protection acts.
The key to prevention is training and awareness. People are trained to do certain jobs in ways that make them safer and must be aware of things that can go wrong and what to do about them.
This section describes the ways the Company prevents spills and the training that various personnel have to prevent spills.
Operator Requirements:
Equipment Operators:
• must have the proper operating licenses for the equipment to be used • must be familiar with the Company's policy on hazardous material spills • must be familiar with the hazards and characteristics of the cargo that is being hauled or handled • must be familiar with the Company's initial Response Procedures • must inspect the equipment prior to his trip and ensure that it is in proper operating condition • must ensure that the vehicle is equipped with a copy of the initial Response Procedures and the fact sheet on hazardous material, polyethylene, shovel, chains, flagging material, etc. (clean up materials) • must not use drugs or alcohol while operating and be aware that use of these substances is cause for dismissal
Management:
• management will ensure that all equipment is in proper operating condition • will ensure that personnel are properly trained • will provide relevant educational material to their employees
Record of Training:
Training for On Scene Commander
Training for Response Crews
Practice Drills The Company will undertake yearly, to carry out a spill exercise simulating various situations that might be encountered. A film of an exercise can also be used.
Spill Reporting:
Equipment Operators:
All equipment operators will report immediately to the Company by phone or radio any spills of hazardous materials. This will include all spills, even through they may be by other user of the road. The spill will be flagged by that employee or operator. This report will include
• anyone injured • name of person reporting the spill • time of spill or time spill noticed • material spilled (type and quantity if possible) • where the spill occurred • weather conditions • cause of spill • initial action taken
Management:
All spills will be reported to the NT/NU 24-hour Spill Line at 867-920-3180. DIAND will be the lead agency on all Spills that take place on the Winter Road
Action Plans and their Purpose:
• Action plans serve the following purpose • they provide product data • they describe the initial response action to be taken by the first person on the scene • they warn the person of the dangers of the product • they indicate to the Response Team the best response for different types of spills • they warn the Response Team of product hazards • they warn the Response Team against inappropriate counter measures EMERGENCY RESPONSE PROGRAM
YELLOWKNIFE NWT ICE ROADS
1. R.C.M.P. 867- 669-1111 R.C.M.P. 867- 920-3630 City by-law
2. FIRE DEPARTMENT 867- 873-2222
3. AMBULANCE 867- 873-2222
4. HOSPITAL 867- 669-4111 Stanton Hospital
5. DANGEROUS GOODS 867- 920-8130 (24 Hr. spill line) REPRESENTATIVE will accept collect calls
6. VACUUM TRUCK 867- 873-2811 Kavanaugh Brothers John 0ilfield
7. REGIONAL MANAGER 867- 873-4044 Shawn Talbot 867- 444-0123 Cell
8. 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SUPPLIES FOR TLI CHO 867- 873-3559 Pioneer Safety
9. 24 HOUR RECOVERY 867- 445-6764 Tli Cho Landtran - SERVICE NUMBER 867- 444-0123 Tli Cho Landtran - Shawn Talbot 867-445-7384 Tli Cho Landtran Neil McDougall
10. 24 HOUR SMALL VEHICLE RECOVERY NUMBER 867-444-4418 DJ’S Towing
11. DIAND 867-669-2794 or Land Use Inspector 867-444-2382 South MacKenzie District
EMERGENCY RESPONSE PROGRAM
EDMONTON
1 R.C.M.P. 780-423 – 4567 or 911
2 FIRE 780-496 – 3900 OR 911 DEPARTMENT
3 AMBULANCE 780-426 – 3232 or 911
4 HOSPITAL Royal Alexandra 780-477 - 4 111 University of Alberta 780-492 - 8822 Grey Nuns Community 780-450 - 7000 Misericordia Community 780-930 - 5611
5 DANGEROUS GOODS REPRESENTATIVE 780-427 - 2772
6 24 HOUR TOWING SERVICE Cliff's Towing 780-451 - 5555
7 24 HOUR RECOVERY SERVICE Cliff's Towing 780-451 - 5555 EMERGENCY RESPONSE PROGRAM
HAY RIVER - FORT SIMPSON - FORT SMITH
1. R.C.M.P. 867-874-1111 Hay River 867-695-1111 Ft. Simpson 867-872-1111 Ft. Smith
2. FIRE 867-874-2222 Hay River DEPARTMENT 867-695-2222 Ft. Simpson 867-872-6222 Ft. Smith
3. AMBULANCE 867-874-9333 Hay River 867-695-3232 Ft. Simpson 867-872-3111 Ft. Smith
4. HOSPITAL 867-874-7100 Hay River 867-695-3232 Ft. Simpson 867-872-6200 Ft. Smith
5. DANGEROUS 867-920-8130 Hay River GOODS 867-920-8130 Ft. Simpson REPRESENTATIVE 867-920-8130 Ft. Smith
6. 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SUPPLY # 867-874-7634
7. 24 HOUR TOWING 867-874-6864 - Robert Dean, Stan Dean & Sons SERVICE # 867-874-6574 - Gary Carter, Carter Industries
8. 24 HOUR RECOVERY EQUIPMENT # Service not provided EMERGENCY PESONSE PROGRAM
INUVIK
1. R.C.M.P 867-777-1111
2. FIRE 867-777-2222 DEPARTMENT
3. AMBULANCE 867-777-4444
4. HOSPITAL 867-777-8000
5. DANGEROUS GOODS 867-920-8130 REPRESENTATIVE
6. 24 HOUR 867-920-8130 ENERGENCY SUPPLY #
7. 24 HOUR 867-979-4149 Artic Tire TOWING SERVICE #
8. 24 HOUR 867-979-2309 Marine Air Cargo EMERGENCY RESPONSE PROGRAM
WHITEHORSE
1. R.C.M.P. 911 Front Desk 867-667-5569 Telecommunications Section
2. FIRE 911 Emergency Hotline DEPARTMENT 867-668-8699 Fire Chief- Brian Monahan
3. AMBULANCE 911
4. HOSPITAL 867-393-8700 Peter Snell - 8 am - 4 pm Nursing Supervisor - 4 pm- 8am
5. DANGEROUS 867-667-7244 Bob Allan GOODS 867-633-6600 Dispatch REPRESENTATIVE 867-633-5400 Dave Avoleddo (Main Office)
6. 24 HOUR 1-403-667-6431 - Petro Canada 1-403-667-4056 - Petro Canada 867-667-4758 White Pass & Yukon Route - Reg Mitchell 867-668-2094 Erik Mamen
7. 24 HOUR 867-668-6060 Arc-Tec Towing TOWING 867-668-2257 Northland Services SERVICE # 867-633-2078 Wenden Investments
8. 24 HOUR 867-667-4758 White Pass & Yukon Route RECOVERY 867-668-4338 McInroy Disposal Ltd. EQUIPMENT # 867-667-7854 Northwest Vacuum Services EMERGENCY RESPONSE PROGRAM
VANCOUVER
1 R.C.M.P. 911
2 FIRE DEPARTMENT 604-942-4404 OR 911
3 AMBULANCE 604-872-5151 OR 911
4 HOSPITAL 604-461-2022
5 DANGEROUS GOODS REPRESENTATIVE 604-515-9422
6 24 HOUR TOWING SERVICE 604-939-6474 Coquitlam Towing
7 24 HOUR RECOVERY EQUIPMENT 604-939- 6474 PROVINCIAL EMERGENCY AUTHORITIES
The first observer of any occurrence that is or has potential to be an emergency, is required under the Regulations to immediately contact an emergency authority as well as Dispatch. Further reporting-requirements will be met by the Director of Safety and Loss Prevention or designate.
Provincial emergency authorities for those areas are:
Alberta: Closest R.C.M.P. detachment or local police
British Columbia: Closest R.C.M.P. detachment, local police or 604-387-5956
Northwest Territories: Closest R.C.M.P. detachment or NT/NU 24-hour Spill Line 867-920-8130
Yukon Territory: Closest R.C.M.P. detachment or 867-667-7244 TRANSPORTATION
EMERGENCY RESPONSE AND FIRE SECTION
Fire Prevention:
Three factors must be present before a fire can occur and sustain itself.
FUEL (something to burn)
AIR (to supply oxygen)
HEAT (to cause ignition)
Many of the classes of dangerous goods that we transport contain one or more of these factors as part of their chemical makeup. For this reason it is essential that Dangerous Goods be properly segregated from each other. As a rule, unless a fire can be immediately extinguished, the situation will quickly escalate until effective control is beyond your limited abilities. In these types of circumstances you must exercise your best possible judgment in salvaging the situation. It is always preferable to lose one piece of equipment versus the entire unit. Always remain calm and in control and continuously reassess your situation.
Preventative rules: Do not use gasoline or other fuels for cleaning purposes. • Keep cab, sleeper compartment, and storage compartment, clean and free of combustible materials. • Replace burnt fuses, do not "jury rig" burnt fuses and place them back in service. • Keep starting fluid in a safe place. • Smoking while refueling, when inside the cargo section, while loading or unloading, or around explosive or flammable cargo is prohibited. • Do not smoke in the sleeper compartment. • Make certain that all smoking materials are completely out before disposing of them. (Throwing lighted material out of a window is contrary to the law). • Do not drive with emergency brake set. • Do not smoke at or near the unit's batteries. Batteries produce highly flammable gas.
Tire Fire Prevention:
• At every stop, check for soft or flat tires. Change any tire that has a loose tread section. • Do not use service brake excessively. • Do not leave a vehicle unattended when a tire is unusually hot, until it is positively determined that the tire will not start burning. • Do not place an unusually hot tire on the spare rack until it is positively determined the tire will not start burning.
Fire Control:
Fire can be controlled by eliminating any one of three factors - fuel, air, or heat. Liquid fires can often be controlled or eliminated by closing off their source. Air can be removed by smothering with fire extinguisher agents, blankets or earth. Water or snow can remove heat.
Ordinary fires:
1. Effective use of a fire extinguisher can control an oil or electrical fire if it is not too large. 2. Blankets, tarps, or similar material can often be used to smother a fire if it is not too large. 3. When a fire cannot be controlled with equipment on hand, the driver should: • Call the nearest fire department or R.C.M.P. detachment, if possible. • Drive the vehicle to an adequate source of water if possible. • If possible, separate the unit that is involved in a fire from the unit that is not. • Drivers must not take excessive chances when attempting to control a fire that could endanger their personal safety.
Any fire, large or small, must be reported immediately to the appropriate supervisor.
Tire Fires: • If possible remove the offending tires. • Get to a water supply or snow, if possible. • Smother the fire with earth or other material. • Get to, or call, a fire department or R.C.M.P. detachment, if possible. • After any tire fire, the offending tire must be removed before proceeding as very often it will burst into flames when moved again. • Be positive that the fire is completely out before ceasing fire control activity, as tire fires have been known to restart after apparently being extinguished. Cargo Fires:
• If discovered in a closed van, do not open the doors until the vehicle is moved to a safe location where help and a water supply is available, or a fire department is present.
• When equipment and help are at hand, remove the cargo until the burning position is located, before pouring water onto cargo unnecessarily, damaging that which is not burning.
• Fires involving Dangerous Goods require special equipment and skills. Do not attempt to put out a fire involving chemicals, as many types of chemicals react violently with water. Instead calmly unhook your unit from the trailer and remove yourself to a safe distance. Ensure that the appropriate authorities have been called.
Petroleum Fires:
• Shut off the source of supply if possible.
• Smothering with blanket or similar material will control a fire around a fill spout or tank dome.
• The fire extinguisher carried on the vehicle will control a small petroleum fire. When using the extinguisher, direct the extinguishing stream to the base of the fire.
• Call the fire department even if the fire can be controlled with the equipment on hand. SPILL RESPONSE PROCEDURES:
"Tli Cho " is committed to operating in an environmentally responsive manner. Accomplishing this goal requires considerable effort and planning on the part of our workers. Our commitment to preserving the environment requires advance planning and direction to ensure that nothing goes wrong, but it also requires planning to deal with what happens when something does go wrong despite our best efforts. This procedure provides basic information about responding to spills that may have a negative effect on air, water, land, property, or human health and safety. Many new laws now require that such spills not only be dealt with quickly and effectively, but also that such spills be reported to government officials immediately.
EMERGENCY RESPONSE RESOURCE EQUIPMENT:
• Vehicles and equipment on all “Tli Cho” worksites will have a 5 gallon soft sided spill kit, spill pads, first aid kits and a fire extinguisher
• Each “Tli Cho” worksite will have a 45 gallon drum spill kit containing
1. 25 universal low hazard pads 2. ½ roll low hazard 3. 6 low hazard socks 4. 1 pair of nitrile gloves 5. 1 tyvek suit with feet 6. 1 pair of splash goggles 7. 1 drain cover 8. 3 disposable bags 9. 1 45-gallon drum steel and lined for protection
• “Tli Cho” owns a wide variety of vehicles and heavy equipment to assist in any emergency situation. Equipment includes haul trucks, dozers, back hoes, winch trucks, loaders and snow cats. “Tli Cho” has the ability to obtain other required equipment on short notice. Company equipment can be forwarded to the scene of an emergency incident immediately. All “Tli Cho” pick-up trucks have a 45 gallon drum spill kit mounted in the box of the vehicle.
• When operating on a clients property (e.g. mine sites etc.) “Tli Cho” will have access to the clients Emergency Response equipment and resources if required
BEFORE OPERATIONS START:
The Safety and Compliance Supervisor is the Environmental Officer for all operations of "Tli Cho " and is constantly available at any time of the day. The Environmental Officer must be informed of all spills or suspected spills as soon as possible.
WHAT TO DO IMMEDIATELY AFTER A SPILL OCCURS:
Unless a license or permit has been issued, it is against the law to spill or allow a spill of a substance into air, water or onto land when it could cause harm to the environment or human health. If a spill does take place the following procedure will be followed:
WORKERS PRESENT WHEN THE SPILL TAKES PLACE:
• Take all reasonable steps to stop the spill; • Contact your supervisor for the shift who is responsible for responding to spills on the site; • Take all reasonable steps to contain the spread of the substances already spilled; • Ensure that yourself and other workers leave the area immediately if you believe the spill poses a threat to your health or safety; and • As soon as possible after the spill make notes recording the following information:
• The place and time of the spill;
• What circumstances led up to the spill;
• Who was involved and how were they involved;
• What was spilled and how much;
• If anyone was injured; and
• What actions were taken to deal with the spill. SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITIES:
Find out the nature of the substance and decide whether a particular emergency response plan must be followed;
• If the substance has been identified, but you are unsure what emergency response measures should be taken, attempt to contain the substance, and contact the manufacturer OR call the Canadian Transport Emergency Center (CANUTEC) (613) 996-6666 for advice regarding the hazards posed by particular chemicals, and the appropriate emergency response;
• If it is safe to do so, commence operations to repair, remedy or confine the effects of the spill;
• As soon as you have ensured that all reasonable actions are being taken to prevent the spill from causing greater harm, and no workers are in danger, YOU MUST: report the spill by telephoning the appropriate authority:
In Alberta: 1-800-222-6514 (Pollution Control Line)
In British Columbia: 1-800-663-3456 (Provincial Emergency) (604) 387-5956
In Northwest Territories: (867) 920-8130 (NT/NU 24-hour Spill Line)
Ensure that all spills on the Winter Road are also reported to DIAND Land Use Inspector At 867-669-2794 or 867-444-2382
In Yukon Territories: (867) 667-7244 (Environment Canada)
• Keep a record of the name of the person you spoke to, their title, the time and the duration of the telephone call;
• Keep a record of any requests or orders made by the authority contacted and implement any steps that the authority requires; • Contact "Tli Cho" Environmental Officer # 867 445-7384
• If "Tli Cho" was not the owner of the substance spilled, contact the owner
• If another person or company usually was responsible for dealing with the substance spilled, contact that person as well
• Contact anyone else who is likely to be directly affected by the spill and/or able to assist in the spill operation
Environment Officers Responsibilities:
• Record the time of the incident, sources of information and details on location, magnitude, type of medical emergencies and/or spill and any other information relevant for follow-up reporting including the spill report form
• Ensure that any spill has been reported to the NT/NU 24-hour Spill Line
• Establish and maintain contact with the on-site Supervisor to ensure effective response to medical emergencies and spill incidents and eventual sign-off
• Contact the Emergency Response Team if the situation requires
• Oversee the clean-up operation until it is satisfactorily completed
• Together with the on-site Supervisor decides if additional equipment is required to contain and clean up spills
• Notify clients and key external contacts (e.g. RCMP, WCB, internal company departments, etc.) as appropriate
• Oversee completion and distribution of Spill Report
• Provide direction to emergency response and/or spill response team supervisors as necessary
• Assist with preparation of press release
• Ensure that there are follow-up reports prepared on the emergency and/or spill incident, clean up and any environmental impacts
• Ensure that post-incident reports are completed and take action, as necessary, to prevent recurrence
• Liaise with government agencies
SPILL RESPONSE STRATEGIES
The potential always exists for spills of both petroleum products and/or various chemicals being transported for use at our client’s sites. Spills may occur on land, snow, ice or in the water or to a combination of one or more depending on the conditions at the time of the spill. Various methods of containment and recovery are well documented for use in northern climates and are summarized in the following documentation.
The initial action is to prevent any direct health risk to personnel. Persons not involved in the clean-up operation will be told to leave the area immediately. The area should be isolated and limited to traffic as directed by the response team.
“Tli Cho” works as contractors on a number of work-sites throughout the Northwest Territories. In many situations our clients (e.g. mine sites) have in place an extensive Emergency Response Program. “Tli Cho” would normally have access to the resources attached to that program.
SPILL CONTAINMENT:
The type and size of the containment method chosen will depend on the following factors:
• Size of Spill • Terrain • Soil Types • Proximity to Water • Weather • Location • Daylight • Temperature
SPILLS ON LAND:
Spills on land should be contained as close to the source as possible with every effort being taken to ensure that a spill does not reach a water source. Petroleum products spilling onto frozen snow covered ground may be contained by the construction of snow dykes. For fast initial containment of smaller spills the dykes can be built manually with shovels. Larger spills may require the use of our heavy equipment such as graders and bulldozers.
Lining with a polyethylene plastic liner, plastic tarpaulin or similar synthetic material may ensure the impermeability of dykes. Alternatively, water may be sprayed or poured over dykes and allowed to freeze to further enhance the barrier to the spilled material. This method assumes that water is available or may be accessed from the spill site.
Containment dykes may also be constructed from sand or gravel from available quarry sites if and where available. For smaller spills the dykes can be built manually with shovels where trucks and other heavy equipment may be required to contain a larger spill.
Trenching or ditching is also an effective way to contain the flow of liquid spills on land.
The spillage of solid materials on land is self-contained due to its nature. Winds may disperse lighter materials. In these cases, a layer of snow should be placed on top of the spilled material until arrangements have been taken for its removal.
SPILLS ON SNOW:
Containment on snow is effective due to its absorbent quality. Liquid spills (petroleum) will become immobile within the snow pack and easily removed for transport and recovery or disposal. The snow can be used to its advantage in the construction of snow dykes. Whenever possible, the snow pack should be left in place to avoid contamination the underlying substrate.
SPILLS ON ICE:
Spills that occur on ice, from either direct spillage or migration to the ice, are greatly affected by the strength of the ice. If the spill does not penetrate the ice, and the ice is safe to work on, the methods of containment are similar to that on land. Where the spill has penetrated the ice, the situation should be handled similar to that on open water. If, as in petroleum spills, the material floats, then every effort should focus on the recovery of the material using pumping/suction methods, and absorbents.
RECOVERY:
Spilled liquid petroleum products contained within a dyked or trenched area should be recovered by pumping into a standby tanker, portable storage tank or drums. Pump and suction hoses should be screened to prevent snow, ice and debris from clogging the line or pump.
Any remaining material may be absorbed by use of a variety of natural and commercially available products. Synthetic products such as 3M Brand, Conweb and others are easier to use and more efficient than natural products.
The availability of shovels, rakes and pitchforks are invaluable in any spill clean up and recovery operation. The use of heavy equipment for larger spill situations such as front-end loaders and haul trucks, make the removal of material easier. It also ensures that all materials, including absorbent sand, snow etc. have been removed from the site.
Burning of petroleum products may be used as a final means of disposal after every effort has been made to remove the spilled fuel/oil etc. Approval for burning of petroleum products must be obtained from DIAND inspector before combustion. Burning should never be carried out on land where combustible organics are present and the oil had migrated into the soil. Removal is the method of choice in this case.
The most efficient means of igniting diesel oil is with a large size portable propane torch. Other highly flammable products such as gasoline, or combustible products such as wood may also be used to promote ignition of the spilled product. Spilled oil should be ignited where it has pooled naturally or been contained by dykes or trenches. Oil, which has collected in slots in ice, may slso be disposed of by burning if sufficient holes are drilled in the ice. Once holes are drilled, the oil, which collects in the holes, may be ignited.
DISPOSAL:
Recovered products, contaminated materials (snow and surface soils), and waste absorbents must be disposed of appropriately. Removal and disposal will be done after consulting with the appropriate government agencies.
Petroleum Products:
Petroleum products such as oil and fuels that have been recovered by pumping into portable tanks, drums or a standby tanker may be relocated to the nearest disposal site after cleaning up the spill. In most situations, “Tli Cho” will have access to our clients (mine sites) waste disposal facilities. If this is the situation, the recovered products are prepared for off-site recycling/disposal by camp personnel through transfer to proper containers that are labeled for transport. Waste material are transported off-site to registered waste handling facilities towards the end of each operating season.
If this option is not available “Tli Cho” will remove all contaminated materials from the spill site and transport them to their facility in Yellowknife. Appropriate arrangements will be made to dispose of all contaminated materials through a registered waste handling facility.
Contaminated Snow:
Relatively large volumes of contaminated snow are commonly associated with a spill. Dedicated snow dump locations are located at each of our clients worksites (mine sites).
If this option is not available “Tli Cho” will remove all contaminated material from the spill site and transport them to their facility in Yellowknife. Appropriate arrangements will be made to dispose of the contaminated materials through a registered waste handling facility.
Contaminated Soils:
In cases where spilled materials have impacted underlying soils, clean up may require the removal of contaminated surface soils. The decision to remove surface soil is made on a site and spill specific basis. Often soil removal can, in some locations, pose more risk and environmental damage than allowing small residual amounts of contaminated material to remain. Decisions of this nature will be made in consultation with the appropriate government agencies. Removal of contaminated soils is handled the same as contaminated snow.
TRAINING:
The majority of “Tli Cho” employees are working on Client work sites (e.g. mine sites). Upon arrival each new employee is required to attend the clients own Site Orientation. Clients Site Orientation includes their company Safe Work Plans.
In addition to our clients Site Orientation training “Tli Cho” employees will receive the following Emergency Response Training before beginning work at any work site.
• Emergency Response Notification Training • Emergency Incident and Medical Evacuation Plan • Emergency Incident Response Plan • Responder Course of Action Training • Emergency Response Equipment Plan • Emergency Response 1. General Safety 2. Medical 3. Fire 4. Ice Rescue • Spill Incident Response Plan (Spill Response Strategies) 1. Spills on Land 2. Spills on Snow 3. Spills on Ice 4. Spill Recovery 5. Spill Disposal • Internal and External Contact Lists • Spill Reporting training
WHAT TO DO AFTER THE IMMEDIATE RESPONSE:
PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR DEALING WITH SPILLS ON SITE:
• Implement required actions as requested by the authorities contacted; • Respond promptly to any requests for information by the authorities; • If practicable, take steps to remove or otherwise dispose of the spilled substance to ensure maximum protection of the environment and human health; • Within 7 days of the first report, you must file a written report. The written report is more detailed than the telephoned report, and should include the following: • the date and time of the spill; • the location point of the spill; • the time span of the spill; • the rate of release during the spill; • the composition of the spill, shown for each substance spilled (to include the substances' concentration, and total amount spilled); • a more detailed description of the circumstances leading up to the spill; • the steps taken to minimize, control, or stop the spill; • the steps that will be taken to prevent a similar spill in future; and • any other information requested by the authorities contacted. • Take steps to restore the environment and eliminate health risks caused by the spill.
INVESTIGATION PROCEDURES:
Response Statement:
"Tli Cho" is committed to conducting their business in an environmentally responsible manner. we must, however, be aware that tougher new environmental laws give government officials extensive new investigative powers. Realistically, all businesses involved in operations that have the potential to affect the environment must be prepared to respond to an inspection of their operations. Advance planning is the key to making sure that inspections are carried out in a fair and reasonable manner that preserves the integrity of the environment and the rights of "Tli Cho” and our employees. IN THE EVENT OF AN INVESTIGATION:
The Safety and Compliance Supervisor is the Environmental Officer for all operations of "Tli Cho" and is constantly available at any time of the day. The Environmental Officer must be informed of all inspections or proposed inspections as soon as possible.
On-Site investigations can only be conducted by authorized government personnel. It is the responsibility of the General Manager to accompany the investigator at all times while on the premises. In the event that legal advice is required, the Environmental Officer, or his designate, will issue instructions as to who to contact as our legal counsel.
"Tli Cho" WILL NOT allow warrant-less searches to be conducted on our sites.
Any investigator requesting access to our sites for the purposes of conducting a search relating to a possible violation of the Environmental Enhancement Protection Act must produce a valid warrant permitting such search. The supervisor must accompany the investigator to ensure strict compliance to the warrant and to provide access only to the documents provided for in the warrant.
WHAT TO DO BEFORE THE INVESTIGATOR ARRIVES:
Occasionally investigators will provide advance notice of their intention to conduct an inspection. It is important to make efficient use of the notice given to respond appropriately to the inspection. The following checklist identifies the most important elements in preparing adequately.
• Refer ALL inquiries from investigators to the Environmental Officer (if time permits) or to the person who is identified for that operation and that shift to speak with investigators. • Find out the following from the investigator: • The objective and the scope of the scheduled inspection; • The reason for the inspection; • By what authority the inspection is being conducted; • Whether the inspection will be conducted by a lone investigator or a team; • If a team will be inspecting, find out the members of the team and their roles; and the expected date and time of the Inspection.
WHAT TO DO DURING THE INSPECTION:
If the time for the inspection has arrived, or if an investigator appears at the site WITHOUT advance warning, workers and supervisors must be able to react quickly and appropriately. ALL WORKERS AT THE OPERATION:
A. When the investigators arrive, they should be requested to wait for the arrival of the designated supervisor to accompany the investigators on their inspection.
B. Find out if the inspection is to be limited to a particular area, process or purpose.
• If the inspection is to be limited, make sure that the investigators do not extend their inspection outside what has been identified; • Do not volunteer information to the investigators; • If the investigators request information, do not lie or mislead the investigators; and • Never answer questions that are unclear, incomplete, or that you do not understand without having the investigator explain what was meant.
THE PERSON DESIGNATED TO DEAL WITH THE INVESTIGATOR:
1. There Was No Warning And There Is A Warrant: • If the investigator has provided no advance warning, and presents a search warrant, request that the investigator wait while a lawyer is contacted and attends at the site; • If the investigator refuses to wait, document that the request for a lawyer was made, and the circumstances of the request, but do not attempt to interfere with the investigator, and if the investigator proceeds, follow the steps below, and have someone contact the lawyer while you accompany the investigator. 2. There Was No Warning And There Is No Warrant: • Advise the investigator about "Tli Cho" policy regarding warrantless searches; • If the investigator indicates they will not wait for you to contact a lawyer, and indicates they will proceed with the inspection, do not interfere with the inspection, but note the timing and circumstances in which the investigator was informed about the policy; • Accompany the investigator and follow the steps discussed below; • Arrange for a lawyer to be contacted immediately if the investigator refuses to honor the policy of "Tli Cho".
3. The Inspection Proceeds Without A Lawyer: • Verify the identity of the investigators, and make a record of their names, positions, office addresses, and telephone numbers; • At the time the investigators arrive, hold an initial conference to confirm the purpose and the scope of the inspection; • Accompany the investigators AT ALL TIMES; • Take detailed notes during the inspection (pay particular attention to questions asked by the investigators, and the operations reviewed); • Make it clear to investigators that workers have limited authority to disclose information, or to make commitments that the Company must honor; • Should the investigator request information that is considered confidential, identify this fact to the investigator and; • Request that the investigators issue a receipt identifying and acknowledging that the information supplied is confidential. A written letter stating that the content of the supplied material is confidential, and should be attached to the information, and "confidential" should be stamped on all documents given to the investigators. • Where possible, take independent readings, photographs and samples at the same time as the investigators; • Make copies of any documents or records given to the investigators; and • Request a copy of any report prepared by an investigator.
WHAT TO DO AFTER THE INSPECTION:
A. If it has not been done already, ensure that the Environmental Officer is notified about the nature, extent and likely result of the inspection;
B. A report must the prepared immediately for the Environmental Officer, the Board and/or lawyer, containing at least the following:
• The name and title of each person present at the inspection; • A summary of any communication with the investigators that took place before the inspection (including the initial conference with the investigators when they arrived on the site); • A description of the areas of the operations examined and any information requested by the investigators; • The duration of the inspection; • A description of any testing or sampling done; • Copies of any documents given to the Investigators (includes photos, plans, diagrams, reports, etc.); • A list of any permits examined; • A statement of any follow-up action requested by the investigators, or recommended or taken affecting the operations inspected; • A list of any violations, potential violations, or other problems noted during the inspection, together with any actions recommended to correct these problems. HARMFUL and FLAMMABLE SUBSTANCES:
Workers will be required to wear eye, skin and respiratory protective equipment as necessary. Personal Protective Equipment is the last line of defense; therefore, the P.P.E. that is needed has to be properly inspected and maintained.
• Identification and Safe Handling;
Where adhesives, paints, coatings, thinners, solvents and similar substances contain flammable ingredients or components which are likely to cause a health hazard to workers, the company will verify that the harmful nature of the materials is known and that safe means of handling and using materials are followed.
• Ventilation;
Airborne contaminates will be maintained or controlled below, Occupational Exposure Limits by means of effective ventilation.
• Control of Ignition Sources;
No open source of ignition will be permitted in or near any area where flammable materials are being used: Hazard signs must be posted.
• Use of Personal Protective Equipment;
Workers will be required to wear eye, skin and respiratory protective equipment as necessary.
• Personal Hygiene;
Workers exposed to harmful substances are instructed to thoroughly clean themselves, their clothing and footwear immediately. CHEMICAL RESPONSE:
In the event that any hazardous material is accidentally spilled or is found leaking from pipes, drums or bags the following steps must be taken by immediately:
1 GET AWAY from the hazardous material and keep a safe distance.
2 IDENTIFY WHAT YOU SAW to your supervisor or maintenance personnel immediately.
3 GET HELP right away to contain and clean-up the spill or leak.
4 SEAL OFF & ALERT OTHERS that may be in the immediate area or in danger of coming in contact with hazardous materials.
5 LOOK FOR INJURIES and provide first aid if you can; however, DO NOT put yourself at risk - get help.
6 IDENTIFY HAZARDS that you know exists or could exist in the area of the spill or leak and report these to the Emergency Response Team.
7 PLAN OF ACTION will be necessary before clean-up begins.
8 PROPER EQUIPMENT & MATERIALS should be available and ready for use before an emergency occurs.
9 CONTAIN SPILL OR LEAK using the appropriate sorbents and/or containment materials and devices.
10 CLEAN-UP SPILL only after making sure the proper P.P.E. is worn. Dispose of hazardous materials in special containers clearly marked for containment of hazardous waste. SAFETY POLICY BOMB THREAT
BOMB THREAT:
In the event of a bomb threat, there are four steps to be taken;
• control procedure; • search procedure; • action to be taken; and • evacuation;
It is essential that the Plant Manager, Maintenance Manager, Safety coordinator, Emergency Response team and Security be thoroughly conversant with this procedure.
Preliminary Action:
As a preventive measure a review of these procedures should be done annually prior to any evacuation drill.
Threat Received:
Bomb threats usually fall into two categories; those which threaten the entire building or those which threaten one particular area. The procedure for dealing with both is basically the same. However, the number of people involved will vary depending on the area affected.
Bomb threats are normally transmitted by phone and the person receiving the call should obtain precise information, including:
• the time the call was received and on what telephone number; • the exact words of the person making the call, including, location of bomb, description and time factor involved; • male or female and approximate age; • any voice accent- of the caller; • does the caller sound intoxicated? Or unbalanced?; • are there any background noise, such as traffic, music, other voice, etc...; • is the voice familiar? Who?; and • time call terminated.
The person receiving the call should be prepared to ask the caller certain questions if the information has not been volunteered:
• when is the bomb going to explode? • where is the bomb right now? • what does it look like? • what kind of bomb is it?; and • why did you place a bomb?
The caller may not answer any of the questions but the attempt to have any questions answered, may be helpful.
To assist in this function a form or check list as per Appendix "A" should be kept on hand at any location able to receive any incoming calls, i.e. receptionist, security, etc...
Immediately after receiving the threat the following persons are to be notified:
• Plant Manager • Maintenance Manager • Emergency Response Team coordinator • Safety coordinator
An emergency control center can be established in the supervisors office where all information will be centralized and where a person in authority can direct the operation. This would normally be the Plant Manager, Maintenance, Emergency Response Team coordinator.
Search Procedure:
Members of the emergency response team and department supervisor who normally work in the area, will. be detailed for search -procedure. These people will- know better than anyone else what is a suspicious object and what is not. Persons who are not familiar with the premises-will have more difficulty in conducting a thorough search. Each member of the search team is to be assigned an area. These areas should not be large as to take more than 15 to 20 minutes to cover.
Maintain a Disciplined Approach - Do Not Alarm Employees:
The search should be carried out as unobtrusively as possible so as not to alarm other employees in the area.
During the search, notice should be given to items of an unusual nature, in an unusual place, or something that is not normally in the area. Explosive devices can be concealed in almost any type of container, i.e. paper bag, cardboard box, thermos bottles, brief cases, etc. Members of the Emergency Response Team and other Supervisory personnel should obtain training in this regard.
During the search priority should be given to areas of easy access, i.e. lobbies, stairways, washroom, etc... The outside of the building and parking lot should also be included in the search plan.
No evacuation should take place until something of a suspicious nature is found or a very specific threat is made. Action to be taken if a Suspicious Article is Found:
If a suspicious package or object is found "DO NOT TOUCH IT" the finder should make no attempt whatsoever to move or handle it. Do not assume the bomber's time schedule is accurate; Immediately contact the Emergency Control Centre, giving the following information:
• where the object is • why is it suspicious • description of the object • details about who placed it there, if possible.
The control centre will immediately notify the Police Emergency Squad who have access to the facilities of Bomb Disposal Units. While awaiting the arrival of the Explosive Disposal Unit, the centre should:
• Evacuate to a minimum distance of 300 feet in all directions, including the floor above and the floor below, giving regard to the type of construction, i.e. thin walls, glass, etc... endeavor to establish ownership of the suspicious object. It may have been left behind by mistake by one of the employees. • establish the most direct route to the object • detail someone to meet and take the Emergency Squad to the area where the object is.
Evacuation procedure:
Avoid panic. Never tell anyone that there is a bomb in the building. Employ a ruse such as: the sprinkler system is liable to malfunction, or there is a water leak on the floor above, etc...
Before and evacuation is conducted it is imperative that all access routes have been searched and that persons are detailed to direct personnel along these access/exit routes.
Under no circumstances should elevators be used. A power failure may leave persons trapped. Special provision will have to be made for the transportation of infirm or handicapped persons.
The essential task in evacuation procedures is to direct people to quietly leave the premises, using tact, power of suggestion and avoiding anyone which might create panic or alarm.
Each foreman or department supervisor of the evacuated area should conduct a head count to ensure all persons have exited.
Once evacuation is completed, the control centre must be notified. REMEMBER... NEVER DISTURB a suspicious package. Let the Police Explosive Personnel check it, it's better to be embarrassed and be around to tell about it.
When the Explosive Unit arrives, have them met by your detailed personnel.
No re-entry to the evacuated areas should be allowed until the control centre has given the "ALL CLEAR". Appendix "A" TELEPHONE BOMB THREAT CHECK LIST
KEEP CALM: Do not get excited or excite others
TIME: call received ______terminated ______on what telephone # ______
EXACT WORDS of caller ______
Questions to be asked:
• when is the bomb to explode? ______• where is the bomb right now? ______Area ______• What does the bomb look like? ______• what kind of bomb is it? ______• why did you place the bomb? ______• why hurt innocent people? ______
DESCRIPTION OF VOICE: Male ___ Female ___ Calm ___ Nervous ___ Young ___ Old ___ Middle-age ___ Rough _____ Refined _____ Accent ____ Speech Impediment _____ Describe ______Unusual Phrases ______Recognize voice? If so, who do you think it was? ______Familiar with area: ______Does person sound intoxicated? ______
BACKGROUND NOISE: Music ___ Running Motor ___Traffic____ Whistles ___ Bells ___ Horns ___ Aircraft ______Machinery ___ Other ______
THE TELEPHONE CALL: Local __ Long Distance __Phone Booth __ Good Connection __ Bad Connection __ Operator __ Assistance ___ Party Line ___ Other ______
NOTIFICATION: Plant Manager ______Maintenance Manager ______Safety Co-ordinator ______City Police ______Fire ______Ambulance ______DEFINITIONS:
Autoignition Temperature:
The minimum temperature required for a substance to initiate combustion in the absence of a spark or flame.
CAS Number:
The chemical abstracts Registry number, if applicable.
Flammable Limits:
The range of gas or vapor concentration (% by volume in air) which will ignite or explode if an ignition source is present. Lower refers to the lower concentration and upper, the upper concentration given in percent.
Flash Point:
The temperature at which a liquid will give off enough flammable vapor to ignite in the presence of a source of ignition.
Hazardous Polymerization:
Refers to that reaction which takes place at a rate of which releases large amounts of energy. Indicates whether or not it may occur and under what conditions.
Irritation Index:
An empirical score for eye and skin irritation when tested by methods described in 16 CFR 1500.40-.42 of the Federal Hazardous Substances Act.
Median Lethal Concentration (LC 50):
The concentration of a material in air expressed as parts per million (ppm) or as mg/liter which produces death in 50 percent of the test animals for a given exposure time.
Median Lethal Dose (LD 50):
The oral or dermal single dose of a material which produce death in 50 percent of the test animals. The value is usually expressed as weight of the test material per unit weight of test animal (e.g., mg/kg).
PH:
A measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a liquid or a scale ranging from 0 to 14. (Water is neutral with a pH of 7: acids have lower values, alkali's higher values.)
Permissible Exposure Concentration:
Indicates the threshold limit value-time weighted average (TLV-TWA) established by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), any limit established by a governmental regulatory agency, or an estimate if no limits have been established. Units are ppm (part per million) or mg/m3 (milligrams per cubic meter). Sensitizer:
A substance which will cause an allergic response or hypersensitivity which becomes evident on reapplication of, or re-exposure to a substance.
Solubility in Water:
The solubility of a material by weight in water at room temperature. Negligible is less than 0.1 percent; slight is 0.1 to 1 percent; moderate is 1 to 10 percent; appreciable is 10 percent or greater.
Specific Gravity:
The ratio of the weight of a volume of the material to the weight of an equal volume of water.
Vapor Density:
The relative density of weight of a vapor or gas (with no air percent) compared with an equal volume of air at ambient temperature.
Vapor pressure:
The pressure of saturated vapor above the liquid expressed in mm Hg at 20 C.
Viscosity:
The measure of the internal friction resistance of a liquid to flow (e.g., molasses is more viscous than water). values are usually expressed as the time (in seconds) for a certain volume of liquid to pass through a standard opening under specified conditions. Material Profiles
INTRODUCTION:
On the following pages are profiles of some of the more common dangerous goods we handle.
Each profile outlines the characteristic properties of the material, its potential hazards, emergency response actions and first aid measures.
As well, each profile provides, for quick reference purposes, the TDG classification, division, packing group and PIN number (which are in all cases the UN number). Where applicable, a reference is made to Schedule XII special provisions. Where dangerous goods are assigned a Special Provision under this schedule of S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, attention must be paid to the quantities being shipped. For quantities specified, emergency response plan information and emergency telephone numbers must appear on the shipping document.
The specifications are:
S1 Any quantity
S2 Quantities exceeding 15 grams (.53 ounces) net
S3 Quantities exceeding 25 kilograms (55 pounds or 5.5 gallons) net, per consignment
S4 Quantities exceeding 1,000 kilograms (2,200 pounds or 220 gallons) net per consignment
S5 Quantities exceeding 3,000 kilograms or liters (6,610 pounds or 660 gallons) net per container
It is important that all individuals involved in the handling and /or transport of these goods be familiar with these aspects and you are urged to give the profiles periodic review to help maintain your preparedness for an emergency.
It is important to note that where reference is made in the profile to the removal of a victim's contaminated clothing, this should include all articles of clothing, including footwear that has come into contact with the material. Similarly, where a recommendation is made to dike a spill to prevent entry into waterways and /or confined spaces, note that this includes sewers, storm drains, basements, etc.
At the back of the section is a glossary that defines many of the technical terms used throughout the profiles as well as a compatibility chart that illustrates what protective equipment is appropriate for the type of substance in questions.
For more detailed, or product specific information, consult the Material Safety Date Sheet, or contact CANUTEC. AMMONIA (Anhydrous)
Class: 2.2 Div: 4 Packing Group: X PIN #1005 Sch. XII: S5 Reportable NWT Quantity Any Amount
Subsidiary Classification: 8
Anhydrous ammonia is a colorless gas with the sharp, irritating and easily recognized odor of ammonia. It is shipped as a compressed gas that will boil at -33 C.
It is a relatively stable material that mixes with, but does not react with, water. It will, however, react with many other materials, forming explosive compounds and contamination of anhydrous ammonia must be avoided. As well, it is corrosive to may cause frostbite. Inhalation of vapors is also toxic and may cause asphyxiation.
Potential Hazards:
Fire or Explosion: May burn but does not readily ignite: Vapors from liquefied gas are heavier than air and will collect at ground level and in depressions. Containing vessels may explode if heated. Ruptured cylinders may rocket.
Health: It is heavier than air and will spread along ground. Poisonous and corrosive. May be fatal if inhaled. Contact with gas or liquefied gas may cause severe injury or death. Run off may pollute water ways. Emergency Actions:
General: Isolate hazard area and keep upwind. Keep all non-response personnel away. Keep out of low areas.
Protective Clothing: Wear SCBA and SPECIAL protective clothing.
Fire:
Use an extinguishing agent appropriate for type of surrounding fire. If safe to do so, move containing vessels away from fire area. Cool containing vessels with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. Handle damaged cylinders with extreme care. Spill and Leak:
ELIMINATE all ignition sources. Do not touch spilled material. If safe to do so, attempt to stop leak or, if possible, turn leaking container so that leak is uppermost so that gas escaped rather than liquid. Use a water spray curtain to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud but do not direct water at source of leak. Dike spill to prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or other confined areas.
First Aid:
Remove victim to fresh air and administer artificial respiration if not breathing. Use caution not to inhale from the victim's lungs. Remove all contaminated clothing and flush any exposed areas with running water for at least fifteen minutes. In case of frostbite, thaw area with lukewarm water before attempting to remove clothing in case it is frozen to the body. Keep victim warm and quiet and obtain immediate medical care, ensuring medical personnel know the identity of the material(s) involved. Note the effects of inhalation or contact may be delayed. AMMONIUM NITRATE (Fertilizer Grade)
TDG Class: 5.1 Div: 1 Packing Group: II PIN #2072 Reportable NWT Quantity 50 Kg.
Ammonium Nitrate is a common fertilizer. Some of its properties are:
• It is classified as an oxidizer. When it is heated, nitrous oxide is produced which will readily support combustion.
• It is hygroscopic in that it absorbs moisture readily, even from air or surroundings.
• It is deliquescent in that as it absorbs moisture, some of it will liquefy and contaminate its surroundings.
Ammonium nitrate fertilizers are manufactured and marketed as prills or granules and coated with an inert material such as clay or fullers earth as well as a dust reducing agent to minimize hazard.
Potential Hazards:
Fire or Explosion: May ignite combustibles (wood, paper, oil, clothing, etc.) May decompose violently at ambient temperatures. Containing vessels may explode when heated. In a fire, ammonium nitrate may explode EN MASSE.
Health: Contact can cause severe burns. Vapor or dust may be irritating or poisonous. Fire may produce irritating, poisonous and /or corrosive gases. Runoff may pollute waterways.
Emergency Action:
General: Isolate hazard area and keep upwind. Keep unnecessary people away and stay out of low areas.
Protective Clothing: Wear full protective clothing and SCBA.
Evacuation: Consider initial evacuation for 1000 meters in all directions. Fire:
Use flooding quantities of water to reduce temperatures as quickly as possible, but do not use a water jet. Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor jets. Move containing vessels away from fire, but only if safe to do so. Cool containing vessels with flooding quantities of water until well after the fire is out.
Spill or Leak:
ELIMINATE all ignition sources and avoid contact with combustibles. Avoid touching spilled material. Stop any leak if without risk. Use water spray to reduce vapors and keep material damp. Dike to prevent entry into any waterways or confined areas. Call for assistance on disposal.
First Aid:
Remove victim to fresh air and apply artificial respiration if not breathing. Remove contaminated clothing and shoes and keep victim warm and quiet. In case of contact with materials, flush eyes or skin for at least fifteen minutes. Obtain immediate medical care, ensuring all health care attendants know the identity of the product(s) involved. Note the effects of contact or inhalation may be delayed. BATTERIES (Wet, Filled with Acid*)
Class: 8 Div: Packing Group: II PIN #2794 Reportable NWT Amount 5* or 5 Kg.
• Batteries, wet, filled with alkali - PIN #2795
Electric storage batteries are classified as dangerous goods when being transported.
Batteries use a strong acid or alkali to generate electricity. The most common acid used is sulfuric acid (see product profile for sulfuric acid) at strength of 24% in water. Battery fluids, whether acid or alkali, are highly corrosive.
Potential Hazards:
Fire or Explosion: May burn but will not ignite readily. Containing vessels may explode when heated.
Health: Corrosive substance - may cause sever injury or death if inhaled or contacted with skin. Runoff may pollute waterways. Emergency Action:
General: Isolate hazard area and keep upwind and out of low areas to avoid vapors. Keep unnecessary people away.
Protective Clothing: Use self-contained breathing apparatus and protective clothing that will protect against acids, e.g. Rubber.
Evacuation: Consider downwind evacuation and, in case of spill or fire, 800 meters in all directions.
Fire:
Small fires can be extinguished with dry chemical, C02, water spray or foam.
Large fires require water spray (but not a jet), fog or foam but DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINING VESSELS. Move containing vessels away from fire if it is safe to do so. Cool containing vessels with flooding quantities of water until well after the fire is out.
Spill or Leak:
ELINMATE all ignition sources. Do not touch spilled material or inhale vapors without protective equipment. Dike to prevent entry into waterways or confined areas. Spilled material can be neutralized with soda ash or line and then flushed with generous amounts of water. Call for disposal assistance.
First Aid:
Remove victim to fresh air and apply artificial respiration if victim is not breathing. Remove any contaminated clothing. In case of contact with material, flush skin or eyes with running water for at least fifteen minutes. Keep victim warm and quiet and obtain immediate medical care, ensuring medical personnel are aware of the identity of the product(s) involved. Note the effects of contact or inhalation may be delayed. CALCIUM CARBIDE
Class: 4.3 Div: 3 Packing Group: II PIN #1402 Sch. XII: S4 Reportable NWT Quantity 25 Kg.
Calcium Carbide (CaC2) is a grey solid with a garlic-like odor. It is also called acetylenogen, calcium acetylene, calcium dicarbide and ethyne.
Calcium carbide is not flammable, but it is highly reactive with water and will, when contacted with water, in a vigorous reaction, produce acetylene, which is highly flammable, as well as calcium hydroxide, which is corrosive. Acetylene is easily ignited and burns intensely at a very high temperature. The gas may be present in shipping containers and care must be taken if they are opened.
Calcium carbide and acetylene will react with and form explosive compounds with acids, halogens and some non-ferrous metals. Take care not to contaminate this material.
Contact by calcium carbide with the skin will cause it to react with perspiration moisture, creating calcium hydroxide, which will corrode skin and eyes. As well, though calcium carbide is not particularly toxic, if ingested, the resulting calcium hydroxide can injure the mouth and throat.
The greatest risk of calcium carbide is the evolution of acetylene in the presence of any moisture. It is extremely flammable, and in the correct concentration in air it is explosive. It is also an asphyxiate.
Potential Hazards:
Fire or Explosive: May ignite on contact with moist air or water and may re-ignite after fire is extinguished.
Health: Corrosive gases also form on contact with moisture. Inhalation of vapors can cause severe injury or death. Runoff may pollute waterways.
Emergency Action:
General: Isolate hazard area and keep upwind. Keep out of low areas. Keep unnecessary people away. Protective Clothing: Wear SCBA and gas-proof, flameproof protective clothing.
Evacuation: Consider downwind evacuation. In case of spill of fire, consider initial evacuation for 1500 meters in all directions.
Fire:
DO NOT USE WATER OR FOAM! In a small fire, extinguish with dry chemical, soda ash or lime. In a large fire, use DRY sand, soda ash or lime or withdraw well away from area and let fire burn. If possible to do so without risk, move containing vessels away from fire. If the fire involves tank or trailer load, withdraw immediately in the event of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank. ALWAYS stay from tank ends.
Spill or Leak:
ELIMINATE all ignition sources. Do not touch spilled material. Stop leak if it is safe to do so. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAING VESSELS. Dike to prevent entry into waterways or confined areas. Cover spilled material with DRY sand, earth or other Non-combustible material and call immediately for disposal assistance.
First Aid:
Remove victim to fresh air and apply artificial respiration if not breathing. Remove contaminated clothing. Remove any material from skin immediately and, in case of contact with skin or eyes, flush with running water for at least fifteen minutes. Keep victim warm and quiet and obtain immediate medical care and ensure medical personnel are aware of the identity of the products) involved. CHLORINE
Class: 2.3 Div.: 4 Packing Group: X PIN #1017 Sch. XII: S4 Reportable NWT Quantity Any Amount
Subsidiary Classification: 8
Chlorine, widely used in the production of materials such as plastics, is an extremely reactive gas or liquid.
Elemental chlorine is usually transported as a refrigerated liquid, which is a clear amber color and about 1 '/2, times as heavy as water. Gaseous chlorine has a characteristic odor, is greenish yellow and is heavier than air and so any emission will collect at ground level and pool in depressions.
One volume of chlorine liquid will yield about 460 volumes of chlorine gas if it escapes.
Chlorine gas is both a respiratory and eye irritant. Exposure is fatal in concentrations of about 1,000 parts per million (PPM). Exposure at 40 PPM for one hour is considered dangerous.
Chlorine is an oxidizer and supports the combustion of many flammable materials.
Chlorine is highly corrosive in the presence of moisture and will react with perspiration to burn the skin.
Potential Hazards:
Fire or explosion: Will not burn but will support combustion of flammable materials. Containing vessels may explode when heated. Ruptured cylinders may rocket.
Health: Will corrode skin or respiratory tract if contacted or inhaled. Is poisonous and may be fatal if inhaled. Runoff may pollute waterways.
Emergency Action:
General: Isolate hazard area and stay upwind. Keep unnecessary people away. Move to an elevated area and STAY OUT OF LOW AREAS. Protective Clothing: Wear SCBA and full gas proof protective clothing, which encapsulates the body before entering a contaminated area.
Evacuation: If involved in a spill or fire, consider initial evacuation 800 meters in all directions.
Fire or Explosion:
Use an extinguishing agent suitable for type of surrounding fire. Move containing vessels away from fire if it is safe to do so. Cool containing vessels with flooding quantities of water until well after the fire is out and handle any damaged cylinders with extreme care. gloves, boots and an appropriate mask.
Spill or Leak:
If a container containing liquid chlorine has ruptured, attempt to turn the container, using all appropriate personal protective equipment, so that the rupture is uppermost to prevent any further spill. Liquefied chlorine evaporates into gas, which is more hazardous. Evacuate all people in the vicinity upwind and to an elevated spot. Eliminate all sources of ignition. Obtain emergency assistance.
First Aid:
Remove victim from contaminated area (remember that no one should enter contaminated area without proper protective equipment) and administer artificial respiration if not breathing. Remove all contaminated clothing. If eyes have been exposed, flush with lukewarm water for at least fifteen minutes. If skin is exposed, wash with large amounts of water and soap. Do not attempt to neutralize chlorine with chemicals. Obtain immediate medical assistance, and ensure medical personnel know the identity of the material involved. Keep victim warm and quiet. If throat becomes irritated due to short-term exposure to chlorine gas, drink milk. DICHLORODIFLUOROMETHANE
Class: 2.2 Div.: 2 Packing Group: X PIN #1028 Reportable NWT Quantity Any amount of gas from containers with a capacity greater than 100*
Dichlorodifluoromethane is more commonly referred to simply as R12 although it is often also called Freon, for the family of gases of which it is a member.
This is a colorless and usually odourless gas that is usually shipped as a liquid under pressure.
It has a very low boiling point, -29.2 C. to -29.8 C., so that it boils under most ambient temperature conditions, evolving large amounts of vapour or gas that are heavier than air. Therefore, any spilled material will evolve gas that will collect in depressions, hollows and similar low areas. Dichlorodifluoromethane is relatively stable and does not react with water. It will, however, react with organic solvents, alcohol and ether. It will also react with hot aluminium, mineral acids, strong oxidizing or reducing agents, peroxides, caustics, mercaptans and hydrazines.
Potential Hazards:
Fire or Explosion: Dichlorodifluoromethane is not flammable and will not support combustion but if it is involved in a fire it may decompose into toxic substances. Containing vessels may explode when heated and ruptured cylinders may rocket.
Health: Contact with liquid or concentrated vapours may cause severe frostbite. Contact with high concentrations of vapour may cause asphyxiation. Contact with vapours may also act as a narcotic and cause dizziness, difficulty in breathing, disorientation, nausea and possible cardiac arrest.
Emergency Actions:
General: Isolate hazard area and keep unnecessary people away. Keep upwind and out of low areas.
Protective Clothing: Wear self-contained breathing apparatus and special protective equipment impervious to cryogenic gas. Evacuation: If involved in a spill or fire, consider initial evacuation of 800 meters in all directions.
Fire:
Use an extinguishing agent suitable for type of surrounding fire. Move containing vessels away from fire if it is safe to do so. Cool containing vessels with flooding quantities of water until well after the fire is out and handle any damaged cylinders with extreme care.
Spill or Leak:
A small spill outdoors will not likely generate hazardous concentrations of gas and would only require monitoring to ensure the product has evaporated and dissipated. In the event of a larger release, eliminate all sources of ignition. Attempt, if without risk, and using proper protective equipment, to turn container so that leak is uppermost to release gas rather than liquid. Do not touch spilled material. Use a water spray curtain to divert vapour cloud drift but do not direct water spray at spill or source of leak. Dike to prevent entry into waterways and confined areas. Allow spilled material to evaporate.
First Aid:
Frostbite can result from direct contact with material and in this event, immediate medical attention must be sought. Exposed flesh or eyes should be flushed with large amounts of lukewarm water. Remove victim to fresh air and administer artificial respiration if not breathing, using caution with mouth to mouth resuscitation as it may expose the responder to chemical from the victim's lungs. Remove any contaminated clothing and keep victim warm and resting. Seek immediate medical attention and ensure medical personnel know the identity of the material (s) involved. DIESEL
Class: 3 Div: 2 Packing Group: II PIN #1202 Reportable NWT Amount 100*
Diesel is a regulated product when shipped in bulk in containers of more that 454 litres (100 gallons). Diesel's higher paraffin content allows it to burn slower than gasoline. As well, it has a significantly higher flashpoint than gasoline which is -18 C whereas diesel has a flashpoint of about 50 C. Diesel is a stable material but the risk of fire increases greatly as temperature rises.
Potential Hazards:
Fire or Explosion: May be ignited by heat, sparks or flame. Vapours may be heavier than air and liquid is lighter than water. Vapours may form explosive mixtures with air. Vapours may travel to a source of ignition and flash back. Containing vessels may explode when heated.
Health: Vapours can cause dizziness, nausea, vomiting and loss of co- ordination. Fire may produce poisonous and/or corrosive gases. Runoff may pollute waterways. Emergency Actions:
General: Isolate hazard area and keep upwind. Keep unnecessary peoples away and avoid low areas.
Protective Clothing: Wear SCBA and full protective clothing.
Evacuation: If involved in a large spill or fire, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters in all directions.
Fires:
In the case of a small fire, use a dry chemical, such as C02; or foam DO NOT USE WATER - since diesel does not mix with water, a water stream will only scatter the fire and will not extinguish it. In the case of a large fire, use fog or foam. Move containing vessels if without risk and cool using flooding quantities of water until well after the fire is out. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINING VESSELS. Fight the fire from the maximum distance or use unmanned hose holder or monitor nozzles. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank. ALWAYS stay away from tank ends.
Spill or Leak:
ELIMINATE all ignition sources. Do not touch spilled material with appropriate protective equipment. Stop leak if safe to do so. Use water spray to divert vapour cloud drift. Dike to prevent entry into waterways and confined areas. Small spills can be absorbed with earth, sand or other non-combustible material. Trained individuals using vacuum equipment should recover large spills. Call for assistance on disposal.
First Aid:
Remove victim to fresh air and administer artificial respiration if not breathing. Remove contaminated clothing. In case of contact, flush skin or eyes with running water for at least fifteen minutes. Keep victim warm and quiet and obtain immediate medical help. Ensure medical staff know the identity of the material (s) involved. ETHANOL (Ethyl Alcohol)
Class: 3 Div: 2 Packing Group: 11 PIN #1170 Reportable NWT Amount 100*
(May also be classified 3.2. Packing Group III and 3.3. Packing Group III)
Ethanol may also be referred to, in addition to ethyl alcohol, simply as alcohol, grain alcohol, denatured alcohol, ethyl hydrate, absolute ethanol, spirits or alcohol, dehydrated. It is a clear, colourless liquid with a typical alcohol odour.
It is a highly flammable liquid that is moderately toxic at shipping strengths. It is miscible at all strengths and non-reactive with water. It will, however, react vigorously with oxidizing materials and violently with acetyl chloride, chromate, hydrogen peroxide, nitric acid, perchlorates, and silver nitrate.
Ingestion of this material will cause symptoms including visual impairment, muscular incoordination and slowing of reaction time, slurring of speech, nausea and vomiting. Bizarre symptoms (other than typical intoxication) can result from the denaturants often present in industrial strengths. Contact with skin may produce drying and dermatitis and contact with eyes may cause irritation and watering. Inhalation may result in irritation of the nose and eyes.
Potential Hazards:
Fire or Explosion: May be ignited by heat, sparks or flame. Containing vessels may explode when heated. Vapours may travel to source of ignition and flash back.
Health: Relatively low toxicity through inhalation and contact. Ingestion should be avoided.
Emergency Action:
General: Isolate hazard area and keep non-response personnel away. Keep out of low areas.
Protective Clothing: Wear SCBA and full protective clothing. Fire:
Use C02, dry chemical, fog or alcohol foam. Water can be used as well but may be ineffective as an extinguisher. It will, however, cool fire-exposed containers. Move containing vessels away from fire area if safe to do so and cool with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out.
Spill or Leak:
ELIMINATE all ignition sources. Stop leak if it is safe to do so and use water spray to reduce vapours. Dike to prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements, etc. Absorb material with earth, sand or other non-combustible material. Call for disposal assistance.
First Aid:
Remove victim to fresh air and apply artificial respiration if not breathing. In case of contact with skin or eyes, wash with water and remove contaminated clothing. If ingested, give water to drink and induce vomiting only if victim is conscious. Obtain immediate medical evaluation and ensure responding medical personnel know the identity of the material (s) involved. ETHYLENNE DICHLORIDE
Class: 3 Div.: 2 Packing Group: 11 PIN #1184 Reportable NWT Amount 100*
Subsidiary Classification: 6.1
Ethylene dichloride is a highly flammable liquid that is clear and colourless with a sweet, chloroform-like odour. The liquid is heavier than water and the vapours are heavier than air.
This material reacts violently with aluminium, ammonia and dimethylaminopropylamine, yet is otherwise stable.
Direct contact with ethylene dichloride through skin contact, inhalation or ingestion is hazardous to human health. Symptoms of inhalation include irritation of eyes, nose and throat, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea and/or coma. Exposure can result in damage to liver, lungs and the nervous system. Symptoms of absorption through the skin are similar and it should be noted that this material is readily absorbed, causing a burning sensation. Contact with eyes will cause irritation and clouding of the cornea. Ethylene dichloride is a suspected carginogen.
Potential Hazards:
Fire or Explosion: May be ignited by heat, sparks or flame. Vapours are heavier than air and will collect at ground level and in depressions. Vapours may travel to a source of ignition and flash back. Containing vessels may explode when heated.
Health: This material is moderately too highly toxic by inhalation, ingestion or absorption. Fire produces highly toxic fumes of phosgene, vinyl chloride and hydrochloric acid. Runoff may pollute waterways.
Emergency Action:
General: Isolate hazard area and keep upwind. Keep all non-response personnel away. Keep out of low areas.
Protective Clothing: Wear SCBA and full protective clothing. Fire:
If fire is small, use dry chemical, C02 water spray or foam. Water may be ineffective as an extinguisher but will cool fire-exposed containers and knock down vapours. If fire is large, use water spray, fog or foam but do not use a water jet. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINING VESSELS. If safe to do so, move containing vessels away from fire area and cool with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out.
Spill or Leak:
ELIMINATE all ignition sources! Do not touch spilled material. If safe to do so, attempt to stop leak. Use water spray to reduce vapours or divert vapour cloud drift but do not get water inside containing vessels. Dike to prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined spaces. Absorb with sand, earth or other non-combustible material. Call for disposal assistance.
First Aid:
Remove victim to fresh air and administer artificial respiration if not breathing. Remove all contaminated clothing and flush any exposed areas with running water for at least fifteen minutes. Keep victim warm and quiet and obtain immediate medical care. Ensure medical personnel know the identity of the material (s) involved. If material has been ingested, give water or milk to dilute only if victim is conscious. Do not induce vomiting. GASOLINE
Class: 3 Div: I Packing Group: II PIN # 1203 Reportable NWT Amount 100*
Gasoline is a fuel for spark ignited engines. Gasoline contains benzene. Human health studies (epidemology) indicate that prolonged and/or repeated overexposure to benzene may cause damage to the blood producing system and serious blood disorders, including leukemia.
Animal tests suggest that prolonged and/or repeated overexposures to benzene may damage the embryo/fetus. The relationship of these animal studies to humans has not been filly established.
Contains n-hexane. Prolonged and/or repeated exposures to benzene may cause damage to the peripheral nervous system (e.g. fingers, feet, arms etc.). Studies indicate that this material is an animal carcinogen. The relationship of these results to humans has not been fully established.
Potential Hazards:
Inhalation: High vapour concentrations are irritating to the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs; may cause headaches and dizziness; may be anaesthetic and may cause other central nervous system effects. Causes suffocation if allowed to accumulate to concentrations that reduce oxygen below safe breathing levels. May cause nervous system, liver and kidney effects. Benzene may cause blood and/or the blood producing system disorder and/or damage; n-hexane may cause peripheral (e.g. fingers, feet, arms etc.) nerve damage. In high concentrations gasoline components may cause central nervous system disorders.
General Hazards: Extremely flammable; materials will readily ignite at normal temperatures. Flammable liquid; May release vapours that form flammable mixtures at or above the flash point. Decomposes; flammable/toxic gases will form at elevated temperatures (thermal decomposition). Toxic gases will form upon combustion. Static discharge; material may accumulate static charges, which may cause an electrical fire.
Empty product containers may contain residue. Do not pressurize, cut, heat, weld, or expose containers to flame or other source of ignition. Emergency Action:
General: Isolate hazard area and keep upwind. Keep out of low areas. Keep unnecessary people away.
Personal Protection: Where prolonged and/or repeated skin and eye contact is likely to occur, wear safety glasses with side shields, long sleeves and chemical resistant gloves.
Evacuation: Consider downwind evacuation. In case of spill or fire, consider initial evacuation for 1500 meters in all directions. Fire:
Use water spray to cool fire exposed surfaces and to protect personnel. Shut off fuel to fire if possible. If a leak or spill has not ignited use water spray to disperse the vapours. Allow fire to burn out under supervision or extinguish with foam or dry chemical. Cover liquid spills with foam. Avoid spraying water directly into storage containers due to danger of boil over.
Spill or leak:
Eliminate all ignition sources. Keep public away. Prevent additional discharge of material if possible. Vapour or dust may be harmful or fatal. Warn occupants of downwind areas. Prevent spill from entering sewers, watercourses or low areas. Contain spill liquid with sand or earth or other non-combustible material. Recover by pumping (use an explosive proof motor or hand pump), or suitable absorbent. Call immediately for disposal assistance.
Water Spill:
Eliminate all sources of ignition. Warn occupants and shipping in downwind areas. Call immediately for disposal assistance.
First Aid:
Use proper respiratory protection to immediately remove the affected victim from exposure. Administer artificial respiration if breathing has stopped. Call for prompt medical attention. Flush eyes with large amount of water until irritation subsides. Get medical attention. Flush skin contact with large amount of water. Use soap, if available. Remove contaminated clothing. Seek medical help. If swallowed, do not induce vomiting. Seek Medical help. Hydrochloric Acid
Class: 8 Div: Packing Group: II PIN #1789 Sch. X11: S5 Reportable NWT Amount 5* or 5 Kg.
Hydrochloric acid is a solution of hydrogen chlorine gas and water. It is a liquid that is colourless to light yellow and has a pH value of less than 1, making it highly corrosive. The liquid gives off hydrogen chloride gas, which has a pungent, irritable odour that is noticeable at even very low concentrations. Because it is highly corrosive, is it usually shipped in rubber lined steel tanks. Should it be contaminated by other materials such as sulphuric acid or come into contact with many metals, hydrogen gas may evolve which presents a high fire and explosion risk.
Potential Hazards:
Fire or Explosion: Hydrochloric acid is not flammable but can react with other materials to create hydrogen gas which is highly flammable and explosive. Avoid contaminating this material. If involved in a fire, increasing quantities of hydrogen chloride gas will be released which is both toxic and highly corrosive.
Health: Inhalation of the vapour produces burning of the throat, coughing and choking. Extreme exposure can result in respiratory problems and death. Contact with the acid causes severe irritation of the eyes and lids and can lead to severe damage and blindness. Skin contact can cause severe burns.
Emergency Action:
General: Isolate hazard area and keep upwind. Keep unnecessary people away and keep out of low areas. Protective Clothing: Wear SCBA and SPECIAL protective clothing impervious to corrosive materials.
Evacuation: If involved in a spill or fire, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters in all directions. Fire:
If fire is small, extinguish with C02, water spray or foam. If it is a large fire, use -water spray, fog or foam but do not use water jet. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINING VESSELS. If safe to do so, move containing vessels away from fire area and cool with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. If a tank is involved, fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles. Withdraw if there is rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank. ALWAYS stay away from tank ends.
Spill or Leak:
Full protective clothing must be worn. Dike to prevent any spilled material from entering waterways or confined areas. Small spills can be covered with large amounts of soda ash and slaked lime to neutralize material. Large spills should be removed by vacuum truck and the residue neutralized. Call for disposal assistance.
First Aids:
Inhalation of vapours:
Remove victim too fresh air and administer artificial respiration if not breathing. Obtain immediate medical help.
Skin or Eye Contact:
Flush affected area with copious amounts of water for at least fifteen minutes. Remove all contaminated clothing, under a safety shower if possible. Get immediate medical help.
Ingestion:
Should any material be swallowed give victim two or three glasses of water followed by milk of magnesia or lime water. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. Get immediate medical attention. Ensure all medical personnel know the identity of the materials) involved. HYDROGEN PEROXIDE
Classification Information for Hydrogen Peroxide Solutions:
8% to 20% Class 5.1 Packing Group III Pin #2984 20% to 40% Class 5.1* Packing Group 11 Pin #2014 *Subsidiary Class 8 40% to 60% Class 5.1* Packing Group I Pin #2014 *Subsidiary Class 8 60 % or more Class 5.1* Packing Group I Pin #2015 *Subsidiary Class 8 Reportable NWT Amount 50* or 50 Kg.
Sch. XII S5(40% to 60% solutions only)
As shown above, hydrogen peroxide has four listings in Schedule II of the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations relating to a different concentration range. Different Special Provisions apply with each listing.
Strengths above 60% must be stabilized and cannot be transported in bulk.
Additives to hydrogen peroxide solutions make it a stable compound. Its uses are based on its ability to give up the extra oxygen atom in its formula in a reaction, leaving water. This makes hydrogen peroxide a powerful oxidizer.
Thus, the main hazard associated with this product is that, in a fire, it supports the combustion process. The extent of this support increases with the strength of the solution - pure hydrogen peroxide is explosive and can be detonated by heat or mechanical impact. At high concentrations, hydrogen peroxide can react violently with other chemicals such as acidified organic chemicals, anemone, hydrazine, acetone, ethanol, formaldehyde and many others. These reactions can easily produce fires, which will then be supported by any remaining hydrogen peroxide.
Potential Hazards:
Fire or Explosion: May ignite combustibles. At higher concentrations, especially, may explode on heating or impact. Containing vessels may explode if heated.
Health: Solutions of 50% or more can damage skin or eye tissue when contacted by liquid, vapours or mist. Weaker solutions are irritants to both skin and eyes.
Emergency Actions:
General: Isolate hazard area and keep upwind. Keep unnecessary people away and keep out of low areas. Protective Clothing: Wear SCBA and full protective clothing. Avoid contact with organic clothing material such as leather, wool cotton and rayon since this can present a fire hazard if contaminated.
Evacuation: Consider initial down wind evacuation
Fire:
Use flooding quantities of water but do not use a water jet. Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles. Move containing vessels from fire area if safe to do so and cool containing vessels with flooding quantities of water until well after the fire is out.
Spin or Leak:
ELIMINATE all ignition sources and avoid contact with combustibles. Do not touch spilled material. If safe to do so, attempt to stop leak. Use a water spray to reduce vapours and to keep substance damp. Dike to prevent entry into waterways or confined spaces and call for assistance on disposal. If possible, flush spilled material into a holding area and dilute with plenty of water.
First Aid:
In case of skin or eye contact, immediately flush with copious amounts of water for at least fifteen minutes. Remove all contaminated clothing. In case of vapour inhalation, remove victim to fresh air and administer artificial respiration if not breathing. Keep victim warm and quiet. Note the effects of contact or inhalation may be delayed. Obtain medical care and ensure medical personnel know the identity of the product (s) involved. LITHIUM
Class: 4.3 Div: 3 Packing Group: II PIN #1415 Reportable NWT Amount 25 Kg.
Lithium is an elemental (cannot be broken down into any other components) alkali metal that is highly reactive with water, including moisture in the air. When exposed to water and air, it produces hydrogen gas, which burns because of the energy in the reaction, and sometimes explodes. Because of this property, lithium must be stored under fluids that exclude water and oxygen, such as kerosene or mineral oil, or in a vacuum. Bulk shipments of this product are prohibited.
Potential Hazards:
Fire or Explosion: Reacts vigorously with water to produce hydrogen gas which will ignite or explode. May be transported in highly flammable liquids (e.g. kerosene). Containing vessels may explode when heated.
Health: Inhalation or contact with vapour, substance or decomposition products may cause irritation or severe injury.
Emergency Actions:
General: Isolate hazard area and keep upwind. Keep unnecessary people away and keep out of low areas.
Protective Clothing: Wear SCBA and SPECIAL protective clothing including impervious gloves, safety goggles and flame-resistant boots and suit.
Evacuation: Consider downwind evacuation
Fire:
DO NOT USE WATER OR FOAM: For a small fire, use dry chemical, soda ash or lime. In a large fire, use DRY sand, dry chemical, soda ash or lime or withdraw from area and let fire burn. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINING VESSELS. Move containing vessels from fire area if safe to do so and cool with flooding quantities of water until well after the fire is out. Spill or Leak:
ELIMINATE all ignition sources. Dike to prevent entry into waterways. Do not touch spilled material. Stop leak if safe to do so. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINING VESSELS. Cover with DRY earth, sand, dry chemical, soda ash, lime or graphite or other non-combustible material. If this material is exposed to air, it will provide both a source of fuel and ignition so there will be a fire.
First Aid:
Remove victim to fresh air and administer artificial respiration if not breathing. Remove all contaminated clothing and flush any exposed skin or eyes with copious amounts of water for at least fifteen minutes. Keep victim warm and quiet and obtain immediate medical assistance, ensuring medical personnel know the identity of the material (s) involved. METHANOL (Methyl Alcohol)
Class: 3 Div: 2 Packing Group: II PIN #1230 Reportable NWT Amount 100*
Subsidiary Class: 6.1
Also sometimes called -wood alcohol, methanol is an organic compound that is both poisonous and flammable. Although generally material, it can react vigorously with oxidizing water-soluble. an organic compound that is considered to be a stable agents. It is completely water-soluble.
Methanol is a clear, colourless liquid that is volatile at room temperature and has a low flashpoint of -16 C.
Potential Hazards:
Fire or Explosion: Methanol may be ignited by heat, sparks or flames. Vapours may travel to a source of ignition and flash back. Vapours may be heavier than air and will collect in depressions or low areas. Containing vessels may explode when heated.
Health: Methanol is considered to be highly toxic, particularly if ingested; however, entrance into body systems can occur through inhalation of the vapours or skin absorption. Symptoms of absorption can include headache, eye irritation and fatigue. Prolonged exposure of skin and/or eyes can cause severe tissue damage. Ingestion can cause blindness and death. Runoff may pollute waterways.
Emergency Action:
General: Isolate hazard area and keep upwind. Keep unnecessary people away and keep out of low areas.
Protective Clothing: Wear SCBA and full protective clothing
Evacuation: Consider downwind evacuation Fires:
If fire is small, smother flames by blanketing area with carbon dioxide or dry chemical, foam or water pray. If the fire is large, use alcohol foam, fog or water spray. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINING VESSELS. Move containing vessels away from fire area if it is safe to do so and cool with flooding quantities of water until well after the fire is out.
Spill or Leak:
If spill is small, absorb spilled material with vermiculite, paper or other suitable material. Attempt to stop any leak if without risk. If the spill is large, dike to prevent entry into any waterway and dilute with large quantities of water. Call for recovery and disposal assistance.
First Aid:
Remove victim to fresh air and administer artificial respiration if not breathing. Use caution not to inhale victim's breath if giving mouth to mouth resuscitation. Remove all contaminated clothing and flush exposed skin or eyes with running water for at least fifteen minutes. If victim has swallowed any material, induce vaulting only if victim is conscious. Effects of methanol poisoning may be delayed. Obtain immediate medical attention and ensure medical personnel know the identity of the material (s) involved. METHYLCYCLOPENTADIENYL MANGANESE TRICABONYL (MMT)
Class: 6 Div: I Packing Group: I PIN#1649 Schedule XII: S4 Reportable NWT Amount 5* or 5 Kg.
Subsidiary Classification: 3
MMT is an anti-knock agent found in unleaded gasoline. Pure MMT is an orange liquid with a pleasant, herbal odour. Its shipping name is "Motor Fuel Anti-Knock Mixtures".
Pure MMT has a flashpoint of 60 C but is often shipped as a mixture with a hydrocarbon solvent -which lowers the flashpoint and thus, increases its flammability.
MMT is also highly toxic by inhalation or ingestion. It is moderately toxic by contact and is readily absorbed through the skin.
Potential Hazards:
Fire or Explosion: May be ignited by heat, sparks or flame. Vapours are heavier than air. Vapours may travel to a source of ignition and flash back. Containing vessels may explode when heated.
Health: Inhalation, ingestion or contact with vapour or substance may cause severe injury or death. Fire may produce irritating or poisonous gases. Runoff may pollute waterways. Symptoms of exposure to MMT include difficulty in breathing, headache, metallic taste, nausea and eye irritation.
Emergency Actions:
General: Isolate hazard area and keep upwind. Keep all non-response people away and keep out of low areas.
Protective Clothing: Wear SCBA and SPECIAL protective clothing
Evacuation: Consider downwind evacuation Fire:
For a small fire, use dry chemical, carbon dioxide, water spray or foam. For a large fire, use water spray, fog or foam. Do not use water jet. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINING VESSELS. Move containing vessels away from fire area if safe to do so and cool with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out.
Spilt or Leaks:
ELIMINATE all ignition sources. Do not touch spilled material. Stop leak if safe to do so. Use a water spray to reduce vapours or divert vapour cloud drift but DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINING VESSELS. Dike to prevent entry into waterways and other confined areas. Call for recovery and disposal assistance.
First Aid:
Remove inhalation victim to fresh air and administer artificial respiration if not breathing. In case of contact with eyes, flush with cool water for at least fifteen minutes. In case of skin contact, remove all contaminated clothing and wash contaminated skin with soap and plenty of water. Discard any contaminated leather articles such as shoes, belts or gloves. In case of ingestion, give victim two glasses of water and induce vomiting ONLY IF VICTIM IS CONSCIOUS. Obtain immediate medical assistance and ensure all medical personnel know the identity of the material (s) involved. Note the effects of MMT exposure may be delayed. NITROGEN
Class: 2.2 Div: 2 Backing Group: X PIN #1066* Reportable NWT Amount Any amount of gas from containers with a capacity greater then 100*
*Above PIN number refers to compressed nitrogen. If transporting liquid nitrogen, the appropriate PIN number is 1977. Class, division and packing group remain the same.
Nitrogen forms about 78% of the atmosphere with an estimated total volume of some 4,000 billion tonnes. It is an almost totally inert, colourless gas that is odourless, tasteless and non-toxic. It has a boiling point of -196 C.
Pure nitrogen is asphyxiating and will not support life. An escape of nitrogen, especially in an enclosed space, will reduce oxygen levels in that area. This increases the chance of asphyxiation for someone entering the area. Breathing a pure nitrogen atmosphere will produce an immediate loss of consciousness and death will soon follow unless air/oxygen breathing is quickly restored. Exposure to less concentrated nitrogen levels will produce, depending on the degree and duration of oxygen deficiency, symptoms including increased frequency and volume of breathing, increased pulse rate, lack of co-ordination, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and/or collapse.
Nitrogen is non-flammable and will not support combustion and it is non-reactive.
Potential Hazards:
Contact with liquid, or cryogenic, nitrogen can produce severe frostbite and/or freeze burns. Both liquid nitrogen and nitrogen gas are shipped at high pressure and containers may rupture violently.
Fire or Explosion: Will not burn but containing vessels may explode if heated. Ruptured cylinders may rocket.
Health: High concentrations of gas may cause asphyxiation without warning. Contact with liquid nitrogen may cause severe frostbite.
Emergency Actions:
General: Isolate hazard area and keep upwind. Avoid confined spaces without proper equipment is leak is suspected. Keep upwind and keep all non-response personnel away. Protective Clothing: Wear SCBA when handling gas. Wear SCBA and SPECIAL protective clothing when handling cryogenic nitrogen.
Evacuation: If spill is large, consider evacuation for 800 meters in all directions.
Fire:
Use an extinguishing agent suitable for type of surrounding fire. Move containing vessels away from fire area if it is safe to do so and cool with flooding quantities of water until well after the fire is out. Handle any damaged cylinders with extreme care.
Spill or leak:
Do not touch spilled material. In the case of a liquid nitrogen leak, prevent it from contacting steel structures or tires as it can weaken them, if it is safe to do so. If possible, turn leaking container so that gas rather than liquid escapes. Pools of liquefied gas can be allowed to evaporate, taking the necessary precautions to ensure safety of personnel. Minor leaks can be detected by applying a soap solution to the suspected area.
First Aid:
Remove an inhalation victim immediately to fresh air and administer artificial respiration of not breathing. Get medical help. In case of contact with liquid nitrogen, promptly flush the exposed area with lukewarm water to reduce freezing. Do not attempt to remove contaminated clothing as it may be frozen to the skin. Do not apply direct heat to the affected areas. Loosely apply a dry, sterile dressing to protect area from infection. Get immediate medical assistance and ensure medical personnel know the identity of the material (s) involved. POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (PCB's)
Class: 9 Div: I Packing Group: II PIN #2315 Reportable NWT Amount 1* or 1 Kg.
PCB's are a group of manmade chemicals that are transparent to pale yellow. They have an oily texture and a bitter odour and are 1.5 times heavier than water. Therefore, they will not easily mix with water but can act as a powerful solvent on some synthetic materials. Since they have an extremely low vapour pressure, they will not readily evaporate.
These chemicals are stable, non-corroding and relatively non-flammable. Because they are a good conductor and an excellent insulator, they were widely used during the 1960's and 1970's as a coolant in electrical equipment. The usual source of PCB spills are from leaking transformers and capacitors and those opened for salvage.
PCB's are extremely fat-soluble and tend to concentrate in the fat part of the food chain of which humans are a part. Ingestion of these materials can lead to a build-up in fatty tissues which is resistant to breakdown.
Potential Hazards:
Fire or Explosion: May burn but do not ignite readily.
Health: Inhalation or contact with substance may be harmful. Fire will produce irritating, poisonous and corrosive gases. Runoff may pollute waterways. Liquid or vapour may be absorbed into the body through the skin, lungs or mouth. Symptoms of short-term acute exposure include a serious skin disorder called chloracne, nausea, fatigue and local irritation. The effects of chronic, longterm exposure can be delayed and may consist of abnormal skin pigmentation, liver damage and cancer.
Emergency Action:
General: Isolate hazard area and keep upwind. Keep all non-response personnel away. Protective Clothing: Wear SCBA and SPECIAL protective clothing.
Fire:
In a small fire, use dry chemical, C02, water spray or foam. A large fire will require water spray, fog or foam. Do not use a water jet. If safe to do so, move containing vessels away from fire and cool with flooding quantities of water until well after the fire is out.
Spill or Leak:
ELIMINATE all ignition sources. Do not touch spilled material. If safe to do so, stop leak. Dike area well to prevent entry into any waterway. Call for assistance on disposal. DO NOT CLEAN UP OR DISPOSE OF THIS MATERIAL OR MATERIALS CONTAMINATED BY IT EXCEPT UNDER THE UPERVISION OF A SPECIALIST.
First Aid:
Move victim to fresh air and apply artificial respiration if not breathing. Remove all contaminated clothing with appropriate safety equipment (ie.gloves). Flush any exposed areas with copious amounts of water and soap. If ingestion has occurred and the victim is conscious, give salt water and induce vomiting. Keep victim warm and quiet and obtain immediate medical care. Ensure medical personnel know the identity of the material (s) involved. The effects of PCB contamination may be delayed and long term monitoring of the victim may be required. PROPANE
Class: 2.1 Div: 1 Packing Group: X PIN #1075 (when using "Liquefied Petroleum Gas" as shipping name) #1978 (when using "Propane" as shipping name) Sch. XII: S5 Reportable NWT Amount Any amount of gas from containers with a capacity greater then 100*
Propane is a light hydrocarbon and is an ingredient in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). At room temperature and normal pressure it is a gas. In its pure state it is colourless and odourless but mercaptan is added for safety purposes to give it a distinctive odour.
Liquid propane is lighter than water and will float on its surface whereas propane gas is heavier than air and will collect in low lying areas and depressions until dispersed by winds.
Propane gas is non-toxic but may act as an asphyxiant in confined spaces. Contact with liquid propane will produce a burning sensation on skin due to rapid evaporation of the liquid. Prolonged exposure can damage the affected area, especially the eyes.
Potential Hazards:
Fire or Explosion: May be ignited by heat, sparks or flame. Extreme heat can cause containers to explode in a BLEVE. Vapours are heavier than air. They can travel to a source of ignition and flash back. Containing vessels may exploded when heated and/or ruptured cylinders may rocket.
Health: High concentration of gas may cause asphyxiation without warning.
Emergency Actions:
General: Isolate hazard area and keep upwind. Keep all non-response personnel away. Keep out of low areas.
Protective Clothing: Wear SCBA and full protective clothing when handling.
Evacuation: Consider downwind evacuation in large spill. Fire:
If fire is small, use dry chemical, C02, water spray or foam. If fire is large, use water spray, fog or foam but do not use water jet. Move containing vessels away from fire area if safe to do so. Cool containing vessels with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. Do not extinguish a leaking gas flame unless leak can be stopped. Extinguish secondary fire. Handle damaged cylinders with extreme care. Fight any fire from maximum possible distance or, if necessary, let fire burn, ensuring safety of personnel around site. Any resulting BLEVE could have impact over a wide area.
Spill or Leak:
ELIMINATE all ignition sources. Do not touch spilled material. Stop leak if it is safe to do so. Use water spray curtain to divert vapour cloud drift but do not direct water at spill or source of leak. If possible, turn leaking container (s) so that leak is uppermost in order that gas, rather than liquid, escapes. Dike to prevent entry into sewers, basements or confined areas. Allow spilled material to evaporate.
First Aid:
Remove victim to fresh air and apply artificial respiration if not breathing. Remove all contaminated clothing. In case of contact with liquefied gas, thaw frosted parts with lukewarm water (and releases any clothing frozen to the body in this manner before removing). Keep victim warm and quiet and obtain immediate medical care. Ensure medical personnel know the identity of the product (s) involved. RADIOACTIVE MATERIALS (N.O.S.)
Class.: 7 Packing Group: X PIN #2982 Reportable NWT Amount Any amount
Radioactive materials are classified as such by the Atomic Energy Board of Canada who have sole authority to make this determination. They will be classified as Category I to Category III with Category I being the least dangerous and Category III most dangerous. Radioactive materials can be solid, gas or liquid. All are made up of atoms that have an unstable nucleus that decays by emitting particles (alpha or beta) or electromagnetic radiation (gamma rays). The rate of decay and accompanying hazard depends on the material and the quantity and type of emission.
Alpha particles are usually emitted by heavy elements and do not travel very far in the air and will not penetrate the skin. They therefore do not present any great external health hazard if contacted with the skin. If ingested, however, they could lead to considerable tissue damage. Beta particles can have either a positive or negative electric charge and are omitted by lighter isotopes used mainly in medical research. The sources generally used are not very dangerous since a thin layer of glass or metal will absorb most of the particles. Accidental skin contamination will result only in superficial damage though, again, ingestion would present a greater risk.
Gamma rays re electromagnetic radiation (like x-rays) with a very high energy level that can penetrate most barriers including thin sheets of lead. These are the most dangerous radioactive material and must be handled with care and heavily shielded at all times. Any external or internal exposure must receive immediate medical care.
The three factors that reduce external exposure to radiation are:
• increased distance from the source; • increased shielding around the source; and • reduced length of exposure to the source.
Potential Hazards:
Fire or Explosion: Some may burn or ignite combustibles (wood, paper, oil, clothing, etc.) Some vapours may form explosive mixtures with air. Containing vessels may explode when heated. Thorium Nitrate and Uranyl Nitrate may ignite combustibles and may explode when mixed with fuels. Health: The degree of radioactivity will vary with the type, quantity and form of material. Inhalation of gases or airborne particles or contact with material will result in contamination. Prolonged exposure may cause severe injury or death. Fire may produce irritation, poisonous and/or corrosive gases. Runoff may pollute waterways.
Emergency Action:
General: Isolate hazard area and keep upwind. Keep all non-response personnel away. Limit entry to shortest possible time. Put as much distance as possible between material and personnel and maximize shielding between people and material (use building, earth banks, etc.). Wherever possible, alternate persons for entry.
Protective Clothing: Wear SCBA and fill protective clothing.
Fire:
In a small fire, use dry chemical, C02, water spray or foam. In a large fire, use water spray, fog or foam. Do no move damaged containing vessels or packages. If it is safe to do so, move undamaged containing vessels or packages out of fire zone. Cool containing vessels or packages with flooding quantities of water until well after the fire is out.
Spill or Leak:
ELIMINATE all ignition sources. Avoid contact with combustibles (wood, paper, oil, clothing, etc.). Do not touch damaged containing vessels or packages or spilled material. Do not attempt recovery actions except for rescue purposes. Dike to prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements, confined areas, etc. DO NOT CLEAN UP OR DISPOSE EXCEPT UNDER SUPERVISION OF A SPECIALIST.
First Aid:
Remove victim to fresh air and remove all contaminated clothing, Immediately flush eyes with running water for at least 15 minutes in case of contact with material. Shower and wash with soap and water. Obtain immediate medical care and ensure medical personnel know the identity of the product (s) involved. SODIUM DICHROMATE
Class: 5.1 Div: I Packing Groups II PIN #1479 Reportable NWT Amount 50* or 50 Kg.
Subsidiary Classification: 9.2
Pure sodium dichromate is a red, crystalline solid that is used as a corrosion inhibitor in pipes and heat exchangers, among other things. It is very soluble in water and is often shipped as a solution. Sodium dichromate is a strong oxidiser and is corrosive as well as toxic. Chromate salts have been identified with skin; liver and kidney damage and are a suspected carcinogen. Protective clothing must be worn when handling this material. It is not a strong enough toxin to be regulated as a poison by the TDG Regulations; nonetheless, poisoning is a real possibility if contact is made with this material through inhalation, absorption or ingestion.
Sodium dichromate itself is non-flammable but in a fire situation will release oxygen to support combustion further.
It is considered to be harmful to the environment and must be carefully contained in a spill situation and any contaminated soil treated as a hazardous waste. being transported, the shipping name "Oxidizing Substance, solid, n.o.s. (Sodium Dichromate)" is used when shipping this material in its solid form. If a solution is being transported, the shipping name "Oxidizing substance, liquid, n.o.s. (Sodium Dichromate)" or "Environmentally hazardous substance (Sodium Dichromate)" if the quantity under transport is greater that 50 kg.
Potential Hazards:
Fire or Explosion: May ignite combustibles including wood, paper, oil, clothing, etc. May decompose violently at ambient temperature. Contact with fuels or some metals may be explosive. Containing vessels may explode when heated.
Health: Contact may cause severe burns. Vapour or dust may be irritating or poisonous. Fire may produce irritating, poisonous and/or corrosive gases. Runoff may pollute waterways.
Emergency Action:
General: Isolate hazard area and keep upwind. Keep all non-response personnel away. Keep out of low areas. Protective Clothing: Wear SCBA and full protective clothing.
Fire:
Use flooding quantities of water but do not use a water jet. Fight fire from maximum possible distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles. Move containing vessels from fire area if it is safe to do so. Cool containing vessels with flooding quantities of water until well after the fire is out.
Spill or Leak:
ELIMINATE all ignition sources. Avoid contact with combustibles. Do not touch spilled material. Attempt to stop any leak if it is safe to do so. Use water spray to reduce vapours and keep substance damp. Dike to prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements and confined areas. Call for assistance or disposal.
First Aid:
Remove victim to fresh air. Apply artificial respiration if victim is not breathing. Remove all contaminated clothing and flush contaminated skin or eyes with running water for at least fifteen minutes. Keep victim warm and quiet and obtain immediate medical care. Ensure medical personnel know the identity of the material (s) involved. Note the effects of contact or inhalation may be delayed. SODIUM HYDROXIDE (Caustic Soda)
Class: 8 Packing Groups II PIN #1823 (solid or flake) #1824 (solution) Reportable NWT Amount 5* to 5 Kg.
Commonly referred to as caustic soda or lye, sodium hydroxide is produced in high volume and used in many industrial processes. As a liquid solution, it is generally produced in concentrations of from 50 to 73 percent sodium hydroxide dissolved in water.
It is a strong alkali and is thus extremely corrosive in its concentrated forms. Solid sodium hydroxide is white or off-white in colour, odourless and usually manufactured in pellets or beads. It readily absorbs moisture from the atmosphere (hygroscopic). It is water-soluble and reacts violently with water, giving off considerable heat. It will also react slowly with carbon dioxide in the air and in time, transforms into sodium carbonate.
Liquid sodium hydroxide is colourless and odourless. A 50 percent solution freezes at 5 C. A 73 percent solution freezes at 62 C. To prevent solidification, containers are usually transported hot and in insulated containers.
Sodium hydroxide is also reactive with metals such as aluminium, zinc, tin and their alloys, evolving potentially explosive hydrogen. It also reacts violently with acid and organic chemicals such as nitrocarbons and chlorocarbons. It will eat through wool and leather. Sodium hydroxide has a soapy feel to it and will react severely on contact with hair and skin but may not produce immediate pain.
Potential Hazards:
Fire or Explosion: Does not ignite readily. May form explosive mixture air. Reacts violently with water. May ignite combustibles such as wood, paper, oil, clothing, etc. Containing vessels may explode when heated.
Health: Inhalation of contact with material or vapours may cause severe burns or death. May produce poisonous and/or corrosive gases on contact with water. Fire may produce irritating, poisonous and/or corrosive gases. Runoff may pollute waterways. Emergency Actions:
General: Isolate hazard area and keep all non-response personnel away. Keep upwind and out of low areas.
Protective Clothing: Wear SCBA and SPECIAL protective clothing.
Fire:
In a small fire, use dry chemical, C02 water spray or foam. In a large fire, use water spray, fog or foam but do not use a water jet. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINING VESSELS. Move containing vessels away from fire are if it is safe to do so. Cool containing vessels with flooding quantities of water until well after the fire is out.
Spill or Leak:
ELIMINATE all ignition sources. Do not touch spilled material. Attempt to stop leak if it is safe to do so. Use a water spray to reduce vapours or divert vapour cloud drift; BUT DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINING VESSELS. Dike to prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. Call for disposal assistance.
First Aid:
Remove victim to fresh air and apply artificial respiration if not breathing. Remove all contaminated clothing. If skin or eyes are contaminated, flush with running water for at least fifteen minutes. Keep victim warm and quiet and obtain immediate medical care, ensuring medical personnel know the identity of the material (s) involved. Note the effects of contact or inhalation may be delayed. SULPHURIC ACID (More than 51% acid by volume)
Class.: 8 Packing Group: II PIN *1830 Sch. XII: S5 Reportable NWT Amount 5* to 5 Kg.
Sulphuric acid is one of the world's most commonly used chemicals. Commercially produced sulphuric acid generally comes in a solution of 93 to 98 percent acid in water making this a highly corrosive substance.
It is sometimes referred to as oil of vitriol and is a colourless, odourless oily liquid. While a 98% concentration will freeze at 10 C., 93% concentrations will freeze at -29 C. and is most often diluted to this concentration for transportation purposes. Acid strengths that are under 93°% concentration are actually more difficult to handle because they are most corrosive to metals such as steel. Weaker acids are extremely reactive with most metals and this reaction can evolve hydrogen gas, which is highly ex-plosive.
Sulphuric acid is hygroscopic and higher concentrations have the most affinity for water. Standing, it will absorb moisture from the air and on contact with hydrated conpounds, will dehydrate them. Contact with water causes an exothermic (heat is given out) reaction. In the case of concentrated acid, this reaction may be extremely violent with an extreme amount of heat generated, along with boiling, steaming and spitting. Concentrated acid may also react with other chemicals as a strong oxidizer, and evolve sulphur dioxide gas, which is toxic, in the reaction.
Sulphuric acid, in strengths of just 1% or more will immediately attack skin, eyes and mucous tissues. The stronger the solution, the more serious the resulting burns on contact with tissue, which, when extremely severe, can result in death.
Potential Hazards:
Fire or Explosion: Will not readily ignite but may form explosive mixtures with air. May act as an oxidizer and ignite combustibles such wood, paper, oil or clothing. Reacts violently with water. Containing vessels may explode when heated.
Health: Inhalation or contact with vapour or material may cause severe injury or death. May produce poisonous and/or corrosive gases on contact with water or some chemicals. Fire may produce irritating, poisonous and/or corrosive gases. Runoff may pollute waterways. Emergency Action:
General: Isolate hazard area and keep upwind. Keep all non-response personnel away and keep out of low areas.
Protective Clothing: Wear SCBA and SPECIAL protective clothing (i.e. rubberised materials)
Fire:
For a small fire, use dry chemical, C02 water spray or foam. In a large fire, use water spray, fog or foam but do not use a water jet. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINING VESSELS. If safe to do so, move containing vessels away from fire area. Cool containing vessels with flooding quantities of water until well after the fire is out.
Spill or Leak:
ELIMINATE all ignition sources. Do not touch spilled material. Attempt to stop leak if it is safe to do so. A small spill can be neutralized by slowly adding a solution of slaked lime and soda ash. Use water spray to reduce vapours or divert vapour cloud drift; BUT, DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINING VESSELS. Dike to prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. Call for disposal assistance.
First Aid:
Remove victim to fresh air and apply artificial respiration if not breathing. Remove all contaminated clothing. Flush contaminated skin or eyes with running water for at least fifteen minutes. Keep victim warm and quiet and obtain immediate medical care, ensuring medical personnel know the identity of the product (s) involved. Note the effects of contact or inhalation may be delayed. GLOSSARY
Aerosol Liquid/gaseous contents normally discharged through a -valve system from pressurized dispensers.
"Alcohol" foam Alcohol resistant foam; this foam is also resistant to other chemicals such as ketones and esters which may break down other types of foam.
Ambient Surrounding.
BLEVE Boiling liquid. Expanding Vapour Explosion Refers to either a chemical or thermal burn, the former may be caused by corrosive substances and the latter by liquefied or cryogenic gases or hot molten substances.
Burn Carbon dioxide gas.
Compatibility Group Identifies the kinds of explosive substances and articles that are deemed to be compatible.
Containing Vessel Receptacle enclosing dangerous goods including aerosol dispensers, bottles, drums, tanks, etc.
Cryogenic gas Extremely low temperature liquefied gas.
Decomposition The products of a chemical or thermal breakdown of a substance.
En masse A mass explosion which affects almost the entire load virtually instantaneously.
Hygroscopic Readily absorbs moisture, i.e. water, and will do so from surrounding air.
Immiscible In the context of this manual, means will not mix with water. Ignition source Includes heat, sparks, flames, static electricity and friction.
Lime Calcium oxide (also known as quicklime) usually used for neutralization of acid spills or as an extinquishant.
m meter(s)
Medical care Examination and/or treatment of victims by a medical practitioner or other qualified person such as a paramedic.
Miscible In the context of this manual, means mixes with water.
n.o.s. Not otherwise specified.
Oxidizer A chemical which supplies its own oxygen and which helps other combustible material to burn more readily.
PIN Product Identification Number
Protective Clothing Includes goggles or face shield, coveralls, gloves, boots and an appropriate mask.
Protective Clothing - Full Clothing designed to prevent gases/vapours, liquids and solids from coming into direct contact with the skin and may include a helmet, coat and pants customarily worn by fire-fighters (turn out or bunker gear), gloves, rubber boots, bands around waist, arms and legs, as well as coverings for other parts of the head not protected by the face mask or helmet.
Protective Clothing - SPECIAL Clothing specially designed to protect against a specific product hazard; for example, strong acids, radioactive materials, cryogenic gases or poisonous substances. Protective medium A medium which protects the substance in question from reaction with air aid/or moisture; for example, flammable solvent, oil, inert gas, etc.
Radioactivity The property of some substances to emit invisible and potentially harmful radiation.
SCBA Self Contained Breathing Apparatus which includes fill face piece, air tank, connecting hose and other fittings. Shipping documents Refers to bill of lading, cargo manifest, train consist, shipping order, waybill, etc. which normally contains the proper shipping name, PIN number and class of a product and may be accompanied by other useful documents such as an emergency response form or waste manifest.
Soda ash Powdered sodium carbonate usually used for neutralization of acid spills or as an extinguishant PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT COMPATIBILITY CHART
Protective Clothing Materials ______
Product Group Butyl Natural Neoprene Nitrite Poly- Poly- Poly Rubber Rubber Rubber Rubber Ethylene Vinyl Vinyl Alcohol Chloride ______Acids G G G G - P G Alcohols G G G G P P P Alkalis/Bases G G G G - P G Halogenated Hydrocarbons P P P P P G P Hydrocarbons P P P P P G P Ketones/Esters G - - P P - P Oxidizers P P P P P P G Salt solution - G G G - - G ______
G: Good P: Poor -- : Data unavailable or conflicting
* Excluding those acids and salt solutions which are strong oxidizers and are treated as "Oxidizers".
Caution:
There is not single protective clothing material that is compatible with all chemicals. Full protective clothing may not provide protection from all gases, liquids or solids that may be encountered in emergencies involving dangerous goods. The table provided above is of a very general nature and is intended to serve only as a guideline. Ratings are subject to variation depending on formulation, thickness of the material and other factors. The manufacturer of the protective clothing or the manufacturer of the chemical(s) should be consulted on compatibility of the protective clothing in question with a specific chemical.