Federal Policies
What does NFPA stand for?
National Fire Protection Association.
What is a Reportable Quantity (RQ)?
The quantity of a hazardous substance that triggers notification requirements upon release
Define "hazardous materials."
Any matter that when released can create harm to people, the environment, and property.
What is an awareness-level competency?
Skills and knowledge necessary for personnel to recognize and respond to hazardous materials incidents.
How do hazmat incidents differ from other emergencies?
They are more complex and require specialized training and procedures.
What is the primary federal law impacting chemical emergency response?
Emergency Planning and Community Right to Know Act (EPCRA)
Describe the emergency notification process for hazardous substances
Notify the LEPC, SERC, and NRC immediately upon release.
What is a Weapon of Mass Destruction (WMD)?
Any explosive, incendiary, or poison gas, or any weapon involving chemical or biological agents.
Describe one role of awareness-level personnel.
Identify the presence of hazardous materials or weapons of mass destruction.
What is the first step in responding to a hazardous materials incident?
Analyzing the incident and recognizing hazards
Name one agency responsible for hazardous materials regulations.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), or Department of Transportation (DOT)
What should be done if a hazardous substance is released?
Initiate the notification process and follow emergency response protocols.
Explain the term "Extremely Hazardous Substance."
Chemicals determined by the EPA to be extremely hazardous to a community during a spill or release.
What is the purpose of NFPA 470-2022?
To provide standards for responders to hazardous materials and WMD incidents
Give an example of a hazardous material that can be a WMD.
Any weaponized explosive device, chemical, biological, or radiological device.
What are the four provisions of the EPCRA?
Emergency Planning, Emergency release notification, Hazardous Chemical storage reporting requirements, and Toxic Chemical release inventory.
Define what an LEPC does
Local Emergency Planning Committee develops local emergency response plans for hazardous substances.
What does HAZWOPER stand for?
Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response.
What is the significance of the Emergency Response Guidebook?
It provides guidance for first responders to identify and manage hazardous materials incidents.
What types of incidents require specialized training?
Incidents involving hazardous materials or weapons of mass destruction.
What is the role of SERCs?
State Emergency Response Commissions coordinate emergency planning and response efforts at the state level.
Who must be notified during a hazardous materials release?
LEPC, SERC, NRC, and local emergency services.
Define "hazardous waste."
Any hazardous material that is unwanted or discarded and poses a risk to public health or safety.
Name one requirement for emergency response planning
Developing a chain of command or training personnel on emergency response procedures.
What is the importance of community right-to-know?
It ensures that the community is informed about hazardous substances in their area for safety and planning purposes