&EPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Environmental Monitoring
and Support Laboratory
PO Box 15027
Las Vegas NV 89114
EPA-600/4-79-008a
January 1979
Research and Development
Environmental
Monitoring Series
Hazardous Materials
Spill Monitoring
Safety Handbook
and Chemical
Hazard Guide
Part A
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RESEARCH REPORTING SERIES
Research reports of the Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, have been grouped into nine series. These nine broad categories
were established to facilitate further development and application of environmental
technology. Elimination of traditional grouping was consciously planned to foster
technology transfer and a maximum interface in related fields. The nine series are:
1. Environmental Health Effects Research
2. Environmental Protection Technology
3. Ecological Research
4. Environmental Monitoring
5. Socioeconomic Environmental Studies
6. Scientific and Technical Assessment Reports (STAR)
7. Interagency Energy-Environment Research and Development
8. "Special" Reports
9. Miscellaneous Reports
This report has been assigned to the ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING series.This series
describes research conducted to develop new or improved methods and instrumentation
for the identification and quantification of environmental pollutants at the lowest
conceivably significant concentrations. It also includes studies to determine the ambient
concentrations of pollutants in the environment and/or the variance of pollutants as a
function of time or meteorological factors.
This document is available to the public through the National Technical Information
Service, Springfield. Virginia 22161
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EPA-600/4-79-008a
January 1979
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SPILL MONITORING
Safety Handbook and Chemical Hazard Guide
Part A
by
Llewellyn R. Williams, Eleftheria Calliga, and Robert W. Thomas
Water and Land Quality Branch
Monitoring Operations Division
Environmental Monitoring and Support Laboratory
Las Vegas, Nevada
ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND SUPPORT LABORATORY
OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA 89114
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DISCLAIMER
This report has been reviewed by the Environmental Monitoring and Support
Laboratory-Las Vegas, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and approved for
publication. Mention of trade names or commercial products does not constitute
endorsement or recommendation for use.
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FOREWORD
Protection of the environment requires effective regulatory actions which
are based on sound technical and scientific information. This information
must include the quantitative description and linking of pollutant sources,
transport mechanisms, interactions, and resulting effects on man and his
environment. Because of the complexities involved, assessment of specific
pollutants in the environment requires a total systems approach which tran-
scends the media of air, water, and land. The Environmental Monitoring and
Support Laboratory-Las Vegas contributes to the formation and enhancement of a
sound monitoring data base for exposure assessment through programs designed
to:
develop and optimize systems and strategies for moni-
toring pollutants and their impact on the environment
• demonstrate new monitoring systems and technologies by
applying them to fulfill special monitoring needs of
the Agency's operating programs
This report presents information on the hazards which may be encountered
in spills of specific chemical compounds and appropriate exposure prevention,
protection and first-aid measures to be followed by hazardous material spill
response personnel to minimize personal and public risk. The information
contained is useful to spill monitors and clean-up personnel, to the public
for their personal protection, and to on-site coordinators to provide some
basis for action decisions with respect to public safety. For further
information contact the Water and Land Quality Branch, Monitoring Operations
Division.
George B.. Morgan
Director
Environmental Monitoring and Support Laboratory
Las Vegas, Nevada
iii
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CONTENTS
FOREWORD ill
1. INTRODUCTION 1
2. TOXICITY 3
Types of Toxicity 3
Toxic effects 3
Toxicity ratings 3
Factors Determining Toxic Effects 4
Dosage 5
Routes of exposure 6
3. EXPOSURE PROTECTION 8
Breathing Equipment 8
Skin Contact 10
Eye Protection 11
Ingestion 12
Radiation 12
4. COMPLICATING CONDITIONS AT SPILL SITE 14
General 14
Weather 14
Fire 15
Wreckage Litter 15
Miscellaneous 15
5. FIRST AID 16
General 16
Heavy Bleeding 16
Breathing Stopped 17
Artificial Respiration 18
Shock 21
Poisoning 22
Eyes 23
Burns 24
Environmental Temperature Extremes 26
Moving the Injured 27
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6. HAZARDOUS CHEMICAL DATA 29
7. HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE PRIORITY LISTING 32
REFERENCES 40
PART B - CHEMICAL DATA Under Separate Cover
vi
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SECTION 1. INTRODUCTION
This manual is physically separated into two parts (Parts A and B) de-
signed to be used in concert. Part A is a safety and first aid reference for
personnel responding to spills of hazardous materials, particularly those
materials which may enter surface waters. The suggested procedures are not
intended to replace professional medical attention, but only to provide for
immediate first aid in the event of an injury or acute exposure of field
personnel to a hazardous substance. Part B (under separate cover) is composed
of a listing of the chemicals addressed and individual chemical data sheets
containing information on the nature, hazard, exposure and safety precautions
for 655 specific chemical compounds. This manual is not intended to provide
information on proper clean-up, retention or neutralization procedures, or on
long-term, cumulative effects.
It is strongly recommended that personnel be familiar with the contents
of this manual and have read the introductory chapters prior to responding to
spills of any type.
All personnel responding to a spill of known materials should refer to
this manual for pertinent safety procedures, protective equipment, and appro-
priate first-aid measures before approaching the spill area. If the nature of
the chemical(s) spilled is not known, the spill should be approached as that
of a highly toxic substance and full-protection gear employed.
In those cases in which the nature or potential hazard of a spill is
unknown, but no imminent hazard to a populace is suspected, every effort
should be made to determine the spill nature ana extent prior to exposure of
clean-up personnel. In the long run, time spent in making such a determina-
tion may be more than compensated for by making swift, concerted, and
appropriate action possible when the problem is properly defined.
Although many spilled materials will be in a solid or liquid form, the
greatest danger to personnel is from inhalation or exposure to airborne gases,
dusts, vapors, or fumes. The dangers from vaporization, sublimation, or
secondary reactions which produce toxic airborne materials cannot be over-
emphasized.
Each chemical discussed in this manual exhibits some degree of toxicity.
Those chemicals for which little information is provided should be considered
highly toxic and be treated as such until information to the contrary becomes
available. Response personnel must be cautioned as to the possible presence
of physical hazards due to damage at the spill site. Jagged debris, slippery
footing, disturbed wildlife, open flames, etc., are often present. Downed
power lines present a particular hazard, especially in the presence of strong
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electrolytes. Identification of potential hazards due to explosive substances,
violent secondary reactions, sputtering, high heat output, etc., has been
attempted and is noted, if known. Common sense and alertness will prevent
most accidents; conversely, overconfidence and ignorance are the leading
causes of injury.
Part A of this manual is divided into seven sections. Sections 2-5 pre-
sent general safety considerations, first-aid procedures, and descriptions of
protective equipment. The sixth section contains a description of the hazard
rating system used in Part B (Chemical Data). The final section includes a
priority listing of hazardous materials-based upon their hazard ratings and
reported spill frequency.
Part B contains an index of the 655 chemical compounds addressed by this
manual, followed immediately by alphabetized chemical "data sheets" with
specific precautionary information and first-aid procedures. The data sheets
cross-reference the known common synonyms of the various chemicals as well as
available trade names. Part B is provided in a form for loose-leaf binding to
facilitate addition, revision, and update as new data become available. It is
recommended that Part A be inserted and maintained in the same loose-leaf
binder.
The hazardous materials addressed in this manual include all chemicals
tentatively designated "hazardous" by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
(1972); all chemicals in the "CHRIS" Manual (U.S. Coast Guard, 1974); and
those hazardous materials reported as spilled during the period of 1970 through
1974.
Information on hazards, toxicity, and safety requirements of the chemicals
was compiled from information found in the "CHRIS" Manual, the National Fire
Codes (NFPA, 1972), the Fire Protection Guide on Hazardous Materials (NFPA,
1975), Sax (1963), Hawley (1971), and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
(1972). First-aid information is condensed from American Red Cross Standard
First Aid and Personal Safety (1973) through the courtesy of the American
National Red Cross.
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SECTION 2. TOXICITY
TYPES OF TOXICITY
The toxicity of a chemical refers to its ability to produce injury once
it reaches a susceptible site in or on the body. This includes damage by
irritants, corrosives, or poisons.
Toxicity may be subdivided on the basis of duration of exposure:
1. Acute exposure refers to short-term exposure of seconds, minutes,
or hours.
2. Subacute exposure refers to exposure intermediate between acute
and chronic; the duration is up to about 90 days.
3. Chronic exposure is of long duration. It refers to prolonged or
repeated exposure to materials which are inhaled or absorbed
into the body.
It is important to differentiate between acute or chronic exposure and
acute or chronic effects. Some compounds may produce chronic illness although
the exposure was acute.
Toxic effects
Effects of toxic substances may be subdivided on the basis of the site of
action:
1. Local effect means that the point of action takes place at the point
of contact, whether skin, mucous membrane, or respiratory or gastro-
intestinal linings. It does not necessarily imply absorption.
2. Systemic effect refers to a site of action other than the point of
contact and implies that absorption has taken place.
Toxicity ratings
In this manual, the following terms and definitions are used to indicate
relative hazards:
1. Unknown - This rating has been used when sufficient data for valid
assessment of a chemical could not be obtained.
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2. Non-toxic - This designation was assigned to materials which cause no
harm under conditions of normal use or exposure. These may produce
toxic effects under unusual conditions or upon overwhelming dosage.
3. Slightly toxic - Materials designated as slightly toxic produce
changes in the human body which are readily reversible and which
will disappear after termination of exposure, with or without medi-
cal treatment.
4. Moderately toxic - Moderately toxic substances may produce irre-
versible as well as reversible changes to the human body. These
changes are not of such severity as to threaten life or to produce
serious permanent physical impairment.
5. Highly toxic - Highly toxic materials are those which can cause
physiological damage of such severity as to threaten life or cause
permanent physical impairment and/or disfigurement.
6. Toxic - Chemicals designated as toxic had insufficient data to pro-
vide qualifying adjectives. They should be considered as "highly
toxic" until additional data are obtained.
Each of these categories may be divided into acute, subacute, or chronic,
and local or systemic as earlier defined. All toxicity ratings provided are
based upon acute exposure. The ratings are based on the effect of the material
on an individual in normal good health. Susceptibility varies widely, and
sensitive individuals may react violently to even small amounts of a given
low-toxicity substance.
It should also be noted that some materials designated as nontoxic or
slightly toxic may cause an allergic reaction in susceptible individuals.
These reactions may range from the discomfort of an itch or runny nose to
violent attacks of asthma or swelling of membranes, thereby closing off
breathing passages.
FACTORS DETERMINING TOXIC EFFECTS
The key factors which must be considered in evaluating the specific
hazard to an individual by exposure to a toxic material spill situation are
summarized below:
1. Dosage
a. Threshold limit value (TLV)
b. Subject's physical condition, individual susceptibility
c. Cumulative•effects
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2. Route of exposure
a. Physical state of toxic substance
b. Inhalation
c. Skin contact (see Section 3}
d. Ingestion (see Section 3)
e. Radiation (see Section 3)
3. Complicating conditions at spill site (see Section 4}
Dosage
Threshold limit value
A threshold limit value (TLV) has been assigned to many of the chemicals
discussed in this manual. These values have been established by the American
Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists and the'U.S. Food and Drug
Administration based upon known experiments and best available data. The TLV
represents the maximum concentration to which, it is believed, nearly all
workers could be repeatedly exposed during a 40-hour work week without adverse
affect. As shown, the values are applicable to industrial conditions, i.e.,
low concentrations over a prolonged period of exposure. The values have
little application to the brief exposure, high dosage situations often faced
in spill monitoring or clean-up operations, but are included in this manual to
provide some indication of relative toxicities of the compounds noted.
It should be stressed that the omission of a TLV in this manual does not
imply that the chemical is non-toxic, but rather that information on its
toxicity was not available. When in doubt, it is best to assume a chemical to
be highly toxic and accordingly take all available precautionary measures such
as use of self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), protective clothing, etc.
Individual susceptibility
Under conditions of like exposure to potentially harmful substances,
there is often marked variability in the manner in which individuals respond.
Some may show no evidence of intoxication by a chemical exposure which would
evoke mild, severe, or even fatal responses in other individuals.
Although much of individual response variability is as yet unexplained,
there are certain known predisposing factors likely to modify "expected"
response. These include previous injury to such sites of detoxification as
the liver and kidney, or previous damage to the heart or lung. The liver and
kidney, respectively, function to screen and scavenge many toxic substances
from general circulation and to excrete them from the body. Impairment of
these functions therefore allows potentially dangerous buildups to occur and
may lead to further impairment of these vital organs or other symptoms of
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general systemic poisoning. Similarly, previous lung damage enhances the
likelihood of further damage from inhaled toxic substances and may reduce the
effectiveness of the lungs as a route of excretion.
In determining therapeutic drug dosages, age, sex, weight, general physical
condition, and the intake of other medication are considered. Such factors
should likewise be weighed when evaluating the hazards of spill-site exposure
on an individual basis. Obesity can predispose a worker to inordinate accumu-
lations of organic solvents and other fat-soluble compounds within the fatty
tissues. Care must be taken to avoid dangerous interactions between medication
in use by any spill personnel and active materials at the spill site. Combined
effects can result in altered response of the body to the medication and/or
altered tolerance to the toxic spill material. Often, such combined effects
are not merely additive and the consequences of a particular mixture may be
very serious.
Cumulative effects
Some toxic substances are retained in the body for long periods of time
and are excreted very slowly, if at all. The levels of the chemical in the
body are increased as a function of duration of exposure. Examples include
such heavy metals as mercury and lead. Upon repeated or continuous exposure,
these substances can reach levels resulting in illness or even death. Physi-
ological changes associated with long-term subacute exposure are often irrep-
arable .
The potential hazard of cumulative exposure should be considered in
addressing repetitive incidents or clean-up operations of long duration in-
volving such substances.
Routes of exposure
There are three routes by which toxic materials can enter the biological
system—through inhalation, ingestion, or penetration of the skin or mucous
membranes. In general, the nature of exposure to hazardous substances is a
function of the physical state of the chemical(s) spilled. Acids and alkalis,
at the top of the spill-frequency list, are basically primary contact hazards.
However, if these reactive materials are in powder form or produce toxic fumes
or vapors as a result of decomposition or reaction with other materials at the
spill site, an inhalation hazard is created as well.
Toxic gases, dusts, or aerosols, on the other hand, while basically
inhalation hazards, may exert direct effect upon skin surfaces Ce.g., chlorine
gas) or penetrate to exert systemic toxic effects (e.g., parathion) or both
(e.g., bromine).
Inhalation
The most important route in occupational poisoning and a common route of
exposure in spill situations is through the respiratory system. Often, per-
sonnel underestimate the actual or potential hazards of contaminated air. In
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relatively low concentrations many gases, fumes, dusts, and aerosols can be
inhaled to toxic dosage in short periods of time. Absorption of gaseous
materials within the lungs is generally quite rapid, depending upon partial
pressure and the solubility of the gas in tissues and body fluids.
The physiologic response to inhaled toxic materials may be so dramatic in
onset as to totally incapacitate a worker, rendering him unable to provide for
his own immediate safety needs. Some form of "buddy-system" is strongly
recommended to minimize the hazards of human error in dealing with such toxic
substances.
Materials which are quite innocuous in liquid or consolidated form may
present very serious inhalation hazards as powders. Such materials as powdered
animal derivatives may, in a susceptible individual, elicit an anaphylactic
reaction with sudden onset and grave consequences (Anaphylaxis is an extreme
sensitization to a particular compound, usually a foreign protein, to which
the body has been exposed at some time in the past, e.g., bee venom.).
Similarly, allergens may evoke a broad range of physiological responses. A
good general rule is to treat all powdered materials as potential hazards and
take appropriate measures for eye and lung protection. Adequate breathing
equipment is mandatory for any spill response team.
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SECTION 3. EXPOSURE PROTECTION
BREATHING EQUIPMENT
Inhalation of toxicants is the primary hazard at a spill site. Since
numerous chemicals are extremely toxic when inhaled, breathing equipment
appropriate for the type or class of chemicals used must be readily available,
properly maintained, and precisely fitted, and should be_ worn as long as an
inhalation hazard is suspected.
Respiratory devices are of two types: oxygen or air supply and air-
purifying. The former includes:
1. Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
SCBA provides a pure air mixture from a source carried by the user
and is independent of the surrounding environment. Recirculating
respirators using a pure oxygen atmosphere are not recommended at
a spill site due to the extreme reactivity of oxygen in high con-
centrations. Compressed air respirators are recommended whenever
they are available.
2. The hose-type respirator.
This device provides pure air that is pumped from a source outside
the contaminated environment.
In air-purifying respirators, gaseous contaminants are removed from
otherwise respirable air by absorption, adsorption, and chemical reaction.
Particulates are removed by mechanical filtration. Air purifying respirators
cannot be used in oxygen deficient atmospheres and must not be used where
vapor concentrations are higher than those for which the respirators were
designed. Their usefulness is restricted to the gas (or gases) and/or parti-
culates for which they are designed. They are designed for short-term (1/2-
hour) use and generally afford no protection from vapor concentrations above
2%. Air purifying respirators are of three types:
1. Chemical respirators.
Inspired air is drawn over a chemical or through a cartridge con-
taining suitable chemicals to remove gases or vapors. These res-
pirators and interchangeable cartridges are usually specifically
designed for a particular type or class of gas or vapor.
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2. Mechanical filters.
These are similar to chemical cartridge respirators except that the
purifying chemicals in the cartridge are replaced by filters.
Filter respirators are designed to remove a single particulate
contaminant or class of particulates. Certain substances, such as
mercury, have such high vapor pressures that inspired air passing
over them may introduce toxic vapors into the air being breathed.
Combination chemo-mechanical, air-supplied respirators, or SCBA are
required in these cases.
3. Combination respirators for gases and particulates.
These respirators provide simultaneous protection against gases,
vapors, and particulates. They consist of gas-mask canister or
chemical cartridges with mechanical filters in series.
Maximal protection is obtained by a SCBA with a fitted full-face mask.
At any spill site, an unknown chemical should be regarded as highly hazardous
and SCBA should be employed. Neither self-contained breathing apparatus nor
purifying respirators will provide protection unless they are properly fitted
to the individual user and maintained in proper working order. They need to
be cleaned after each use and chemical cartridges or mechanical filters should
be replaced. In any case, respirators employed should be approved by the
National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health.
The type and degree of hazard to be encountered will govern the kind of
respiratory device to be used. The following classification of atmospheres
may be used to determine the respirator to be used:
o Oxygen Deficient - SCBA
o Gases, Vapors, and Some Fumes - SCBA or Chemical Cartridge
o Particulates - SCBA or mechanical filter
o Combination of Gases and Particulates, Some Fumes - SCBA or
combinations of chemical cartridge and mechanical filter.
1. Oxygen deficiency.
Air normally contains 21% oxygen by volume. This may be reduced by
dilution, displacement, or removal of oxygen by other gases, chemi-
cal reaction, or absorption in certain materials. Atmospheres with
16% or less oxygen may cause serious injury or death, depending on
the actual concentration, length of exposure and physical activity.
In oxygen-deficient atmospheres, a self-contained breathing appa-
ratus is required.
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Gases and vapors.
Gases and vapors may be classified as toxic or inert. Inert gases
are dangerous when they displace oxygen from the air. This would
necessitate the use of self-contained breathing apparatus. Toxic
gases require the use of chemical respirators or SCBA.
Particulates.
Particulates are dispersions of solids (dust, smoke, or fumes) or
liquids (mists or fogs) or combinations of the two. Aerosols are
dispersions of very fine solid or liquid particles in air. With
rare exceptions, such as in the presence of organic phosphorus
pesticides, massive concentrations of highly toxic metals, or
rapidly sublimable fumes, mechanical filtration will provide suf-
ficient protection for short exposure periods.
Combination of particulates and gases.
Special respiratory devices are available for protection against
more than one type of contaminant. These combine chemical canisters
and mechanical filters to eliminate both gases and particulates.
Special respiratory devices should be selected and their limitations
carefully noted to provide protection against the maximum expected
concentrations of each contaminant.
SKIN CONTACT
The skin and its associated film of lipid and sweat is normally an ef-
fective barrier for protection of underlying body tissues. Relatively few
substances are absorbed through this barrier in dangerous amounts. Organic
solvents can remove the lipid film and gain entrance through the skin, hair
follicles, or sebaceous glands. Indeed, such solvents may act as carriers for
other chemicals that would not normally penetrate the skin. This mechanism
can be an important one if solvents are spilled on skin surfaces or clothing
or during the too-frequently routine ritual of washing oily or greasy hands in
organic solvent baths. Several of the chlorinated solvents, e.g., trichloro-
ethane, are handled far too casually considering their own toxicity as well as
their potential as carriers for other substances.
Keep in mind that the effectiveness of the skin as a barrier depends upon
its unit integrity. Breaks in that integrity, in the form of open wounds and
bodily orifices greatly reduce the barrier effectiveness. Absorption through
and/or attack of mucous membranes is quite rapid for many chemicals. Eye
protection therefore serves a two-fold purpose—safeguarding the sensitive
tissues of the eye and removing a potential site for systemic absorption.
In addition to absorption through the skin, direct irritation and sensi-
tization of skin layers per se can occur. Caustics and acids represent the
most common skin contact irritants. Severe burns can result with associated
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disfigurement, disability, and susceptibility to secondary infection. Note
that while acids tend to cause conjugation of skin proteins, reinforcing the
barrier to further penetration, alkalis do not, and can penetrate to cause
deeper tissue destruction, in powdered form, such materials may react with
skin moisture to cause localized irritation or more severe burns. Appropriate
protective clothing, gloves, and eye covering are indicated when contact with
reactive materials is possible.
The reaction of some chemicals with protein in the skin layers causes
sensitization. Subsequent exposure is likely to give rise to a contact der-
matitis, i.e., skin rash, with associated itching, burning, cracking, and the
possibility of secondary infection. Allergic reactions can also result in
increased vascular permeability, with development of "water blisters", or
edema. Such swellings may cause a severe obstruction to swallowing, breathing,
or vision.
There are creams, gels, and greases available which function as a pro-
tective barrier and offer limited protection to skin surfaces. The protection
is generally rather short-lived in a working environment, but where the neces-
sity for dexterous manipulation precludes the use of protective gloves, such
barrier materials may be indicated to provide short-term protection. The
silicone greases appear to be among the most effective of these and are even
resistant to penetration by a range of organic solvents. The worker should
know the limitations of barrier materials including their potential reactivity
with spilled chemicals and the likelihood of maintaining barrier integrity in
a given work situation.
EYE PROTECTION
Eye protection must not be overlooked while on the spill site. As with
inhalation, damage may be irreversible within a matter of seconds. Contact
lenses should not be_ worn on the spill site since they serve to concentrate
materials which enter the eye.
A major problem in providing eye protection comes from corrosive fumes or
vapor which directly attack eye tissues. Many goggles, although safety-
approved, have vents and dust screens to allow for air flow. It is apparent
that if corrosive fumes are present, goggles without such ventilation are
necessary. Under such conditions, a self-contained breathing apparatus of the
type described earlier would normally be necessary and should provide proper
protection.
In discharges where the material is not capable of producing corrosive
vapors or fumes, dust-type goggles are considered satisfactory providing they
are equipped with filters to remove any particles which may enter through the
vented regions.
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INGESTION
Poisoning by ingestion, i.e., absorption from the gastrointestinal tract,
is far less common than inhalation or skin contact in a spill response situa-
tion. This is partly the result of a strong human aversion to swallowing
foreign substances and the voluntary aspects of ingestion. However, poi-
soning by this route can occur without the knowledge of the worker through
contamination of temporary drinking water supplies or foodstuffs, failure to
wash hands before eating, or swallowing inhaled toxic particles entrapped in
sputum. Awareness of the potential toxicity of the materials being dealt with
and common-sense practice will minimize the chances of intoxication by this
route.
RADIATION
This manual includes only a few of the chemicals which represent a radia-
tion hazard when spilled. However, the increasing use of radioisotopes in
medicine, nuclear reactors, and diagnostic equipment is greatly increasing the
probability of spills involving radioactive materials.
Unlike other hazards, radiation does not require physical contact with
the source to result in damage. Mere proximity to strong radiation sources
can result in physiological damage. In the event of possible exposure to
concentrated radioisotopes, seek immediate medical attention; such attention
can allow one to tolerate up to twice the radiation dosage he could tolerate
without treatment.
The short-term symptoms of acute whole-body radiation exposure are
generally vomiting, nausea, and fatigue beginning shortly after the exposure
incident. These last about 1 day and are followed by apparent recovery for a
period of 2 or 3 weeks before the onset of additional symptoms. These delayed
symptoms may include any or all of the following: depilation (.loss of hair),
fever, infection', anemia, hemorrhage, severe diarrhea, extreme lethargy,
disorientation, and cardiovascular collapse.
In the event of such a spill, the best action would be to wait for
qualified personnel to arrive on the scene. If personnel are exposed to
radioisotopes, however, the following actions should be taken:
1. Internal decontamination
Internal contamination may occur through ingestion, inhalation, or
by absorption through the skin or open wounds. The aims of cor-
rective procedures are to try to eliminate the internally introduced
contaminant as quickly as possible and try to prevent its fixation
in the body (increase excretion from the body). Consequently, the
promotion of vomiting and/or expectoration should be undertaken
immediately. In the case of contaminated cuts or other injuries,
the wound should be immediately washed and bleeding encouraged. In
all cases, medical assistance should be sought.
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2. External decontamination
External contamination on a person presents three hazards:
o Local exposure of the skin.
o Absorption through the skin.
o Transference into the body by inhalation or ingestion.
Of the three, the last is the most critical hazard. Affected areas
should be washed immediately. VJater to be used should not be hot,
rather tepid at best. Soap may be used but it should not be of the
abrasive type or strongly alkaline. A soft brush may be used but care
must be taken to avoid abrasion. Throughout the washing, care must be
exercised to avoid damage to the skin. Use of strong detergents, acids,
alkalis, or organic solvents should be avoided. Care should be taken
to avoid spreading the contamination to unexposed parts of the body to
avoid internal contamination through an open wound. Medical attention
should be sought immediately.
In the broad sense, radiation includes light, radiowaves, cosmic rays,
x rays, and other forms. At a spill site, the forms of most concern would be
those radiations emitted from artificial radioisotopes as discussed previously.
In today's technology, however, it is not inconceivable that exposure to
laser, radar, x rays, or other high energy radiation sources could occur. In
these events, injuries are either of a local nature (generally "burns") or of
a more long-term than immediate hazard. If a question exists as to whether
exposure occurred, it is best to seek medical attention.
Sunlight cannot be ignored as a radiation hazard. Although it would seem
as though common sense would dictate the wearing of shirts at a spill site,
severe sunburn is not an uncommon occurrence among clean-up personnel. The
effects of ultraviole.t radiation upon chemicals in contact with the skin can
enhance sensitization and direct reaction. Sunburn, although rarely severe
enough to cause serious damage in itself, can increase the susceptibility of a
person to exposure to spilled materials and contribute to fatigue, and should
be guarded against.
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SECTION 4. COMPLICATING CONDITIONS AT SPILL SITE
GENERAL
The hazards presented by spilled materials may be either intensified or
ameliorated by local conditions at the spill site. Weather conditions, wreck-
age, litter, fire (actual or potential) or other conditions may require modifi-
cation of basic spill monitoring approaches. Such factors may superimpose
additional restrictions on monitoring and clean-up operations by affecting the
nature and rate of movement of materials within and beyond the immediate spill
area, the toxicity and reactivity of spilled substances, and the monitor's
mobility within the working area.
WEATHER
Wind increases the dispersal of toxic gases, powders, and aerosols from
the spill site. Restriction of public access to affected downwind areas
should be considered. If possible, monitors should approach the spill site
from upwind to avoid unnecessary exposure to a hazardous substance; this is
especially important if there is a potential for ignition. Be aware at all
times that winds can shift and that personnel can be subjected to additional
hazard under such conditions. Wind action greatly increases the hazards where
fire complicates a monitoring or clean-up operation, but can be beneficial as
it reduces the possibility of explosive fume buildups. On water, winds
increase wave activity and may require windward approach to a spill site,
e.g., a damaged barge, to avoid possible collision. The special conditions of
such an approach should be carefully evaluated with an eye toward minimizing
personnel safety hazards.
Precipitation is often a mixed blessing at a hazardous materials spill
site. On the positive side, it can dilute toxic material concentrations, cool
potential reactants, and suppress the aerial dispersal of powders and aerosols.
On the other hand, rain increases sheet runoff and waterborne dispersal;
causes spread of many materials, including combustible liquids; causes slippery
working conditions; and may react with alkali metals, anhydrous powders,
concentrated acids, some organics, etc., to yield heat, fire, spattering,
gases, or toxic fumes.
High ambient temperatures increase volatilization and chemical reaction
rates. The likelihood of explosive gas concentrations and toxic reaction
products increases with increasing temperature. High temperatures also in-
crease the personnel fatigue factor and therefore the possibilities of poten-
tially dangerous judgement errors. As judgement and common sense are the
14
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worker's primary safeguards, on-site supervisors and working-level personnel
should recognize the signs of fatigue and remove themselves to rest areas
for recuperation.
FIRE
Fire or high fire potential at a spill site represents a very special
working environment for spill monitors. In general, to cope with these haz-
ards, on-site personnel either should have training in appropriate techniques
for prevention and control of fires, or should leave the job to specialized
units who have the proper training and equipment. Chemical reactivity and the
potential for toxic products is greatly enhanced under fire conditions.
Monitors should coordinate closely with fire safety personnel to identify and
prioritize the potential hazards to spill-site personnel and the public.
The convective air currents formed by fires can carry toxic products far
from the spill site. Restricting access to downwind areas should be considered
as well as monitoring the nature, concentration, and extent of such transport.
WRECKAGE UTTER
Especially where spills result from wrecks of transport vehicles or
explosions at manufacturing, processing, or packaging installations, monitors
may find themselves working around torn and twisted structural materials.
Care should be exercised to avoid cutting or tearing protective clothing or
snagging breathing apparatus on such site debris. When working with toxic
substances a laceration or puncture can be a serious route to systemic poi-
soning. Fume and fire hazard potential should be evaluated prior to any torch
cutting.
MISCELLANEOUS
Other hazards may also exist. Downed power lines present a shock danger
and add to the probability of fire and explosion. Broken steam lines, in
addition to posing a burn hazard, may also reduce visibility and contribute
substantial amounts of uncontrolled water at the scene. Disturbed wildlife
may be present and, due to the stresses imposed, be atypically aggressive.
(If bitten, attempt to kill or capture the animal for rabies tests, identify
snake species for anti-toxin selection, etc.) High speed traffic, extreme
cold, radioactive materials, deep swift water, etc., will present different,
but significant dangers. It is impossible to foresee all possible hazards at
a spill site. Again, alertness, the use of common sense and good judgement
will help to avoid most of these dangers.
15
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SECTION 5. FIRST AID
GENERAL
First aid is generally defined as the immediate and temporary care given
the victim of an accident or sudden illness until the services of a physician
can be obtained. Common sense and a few simple rules are the keys to effective
first aid.
The first objective is to save life by:
o Ensuring an open airway and maintaining breathing.
o Preventing heavy loss of blood.
o Giving first aid for poisoning.
o Preventing or reducing shock.
o Preventing further injury.
o Sending for medical aid.
The first-aider should also:
o Avoid panic.
o Inspire confidence.
o Do no more than necessary until professional help arrives.
HEAVY BLEEDING
A victim who has profuse bleeding may die within one minute or less,
therefore:
O DO NOT WASTE TIME.
o USE PRESSURE DIRECTLY OVER THE WOUND.
o Place a pad, clean handkerchief, clean cloth, etc., directly
over the wound and press firmly with one or both of your hands.
If a pad or bandage is not available, close the wound with your
hand or fingers.
16
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o Hold the pad firmly in place with a strong bandage, necktie,
strips of cloth, etc. Unless bones are broken, raise the bleed-
ing part higher than the rest of the body.
o Keep the victim lying down.
o Keep the victim warm to prevent loss of body heat. Cover with
blankets, coat, or anything available and put something under him
if he is on a cold or damp surface. Do not add heat.
o Give fluids only if victim does not have head or abdominal inju-
ries, probably will not require surgery, and professional help
will be more than one hour arriving. If the victim is conscious
and can swallow, give him plenty of liquids to drink. Give him
sips and do not give stimulants.
o Call a physician.
o Use a tourniquet only if victim is bleeding profusely and other
methods have failed and the victim's life is in danger.
o DO NOT give the victim alcoholic drinks.
o If the victim is UNCONSCIOUS or if abdominal injury is suspected,
DO NOT give him fluids.
BREATHING STOPPED
A person who has stopped breathing will die if breathing is not restored
immediately.
If breathing is restored, victims who had stopped breathing need hos-
pitalization.
The following are major factors in breathing stoppage.
Poisonous gases in the air or lack of oxygen
o Move victim to fresh air.
o Begin mouth-to-mouth breathing.
o Control the source of poisonous gases, if possible.
o Keep others away from area.
o DO NOT enter an enclosed area to rescue an unconscious victim without
first being equipped with a self-contained or air-supplied breathing
apparatus.
17
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Electric shock
o If electrical hazard persists: Indoors, open main electrical breaker
if appropriate individual breaker cannot be immediately identified;
outdoors, contact power company to turn current off.
o DO NOT TOUCH the victim until he is separated from the current.
o Begin mouth-to-mouth resuscitation or cardiopulmonary resuscitation,
if needed and if trained in this technique, as soon as the victim is
free of contact with the current.
o DO NOT try to remove a person from an out-of-doors wire unless you
have had special training for this type of rescue work.
Heart attack
Laryngeal obstruction
Accident or drowning
When breathing movements stop or lips, tongue, and fingernails become
blue, there is need for help with breathing.
When in doubt, begin artificial respiration. No harm can result from
its use. Delay may cost the victim his life.
ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION
General
o Seconds count. Start immediately.
o Remove any obvious obstruction from mouth and throat.
o Place victim in appropriate position and begin artificial respiration.
o Maintain steady rhythm of 12 breaths per minute.
o Maintain an open airway and periodically check the victim. Be ready
to resume artificial respiration if necessary.
o Call a physician.
o DO NOT move the victim unless absolutely necessary to remove from
danger.
o DO NOT wait or look for help.
o DO NOT stop to loosen clothing or warm the victim.
o DO NOT GIVE UP.
18
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Mouth-to-mouth breathing for adults
o Place victim in supine position (on back).
o Tilt victim's head back by pressing on his forehead with your other
hand.
o Place your cheek and ear over the victim's nose and mouth, looking at
his chest. Look, listen and feel for breathing for about 5 seconds.
o Pinch the victim's nose shut with the thumb and forefinger of the
hand on victim's forehead. Take a deep breath and place your mouth
over the victim's mouth or nose making a leak-proof seal.
o Blow your breath into the victim's mouth or nose until you see the
chest rise; repeat these breaths 4 times in rapid succession without
allowing the lungs to fully deflate between breaths.
o Maintain the head tilt and again check the victim for breathing for
approximately 5 seconds.
o Remove your mouth and let the victim exhale while you take another
deep breath.. As soon as you hear the victim breathe out, replace your
mouth over his mouth or nose and repeat the procedure.
o Repeat this procedure of giving one breath, turning to look, listen
and feel for return of air, and blowing again, once every five seconds
(12 times per minute).
Manual method of artificial respiration
o Place victim in a face-up position but allow his head to turn to the
side to avoid aspiration.
o Place something under the victim's shoulders to raise them to allow
the head to drop backward.
o Kneel above victim's head, facing the victim.
o Grasp victim's arm at the wrists, crossing and pressing victim's
wrists against the lower chest.
o Immediately, pull arms upward, outward, and backward as far as
possible.
o Repeat 15 times per minute.
o If a second person is present, he should hold the victim's head so
that it tilts backward and the jaw juts forward.
o This method should be used when mouth-to-mouth resuscitation is ad-
vised against.
19
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Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
Heart-lung resuscitation is an emergency procedure which requires the
ability to recognize a cardiac arrest and special training in its performance.
All training programs should adhere to the standards put forth in JAMA "Sup-
plement on Standards for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Emergency
Cardiac Care (ECC)". 18 February 1974, Volume 227, Number 7. Information
provided here on Cardiopulmonary resuscitation-is not designed to supplant a
complete course of instruction under direction of a qualified instructor.
Such instruction is strongly recommended for all personnel who must respond to
hazardous materials spill sites.
Emergency Cardiopulmonary resuscitation involves the following steps:
o Airway opened.
o Breathing restored.
o Circulation restored.
External cardiac compression should be started after providing four quick
breaths and checking for pulse and breathing. If apnea (breathing stoppage)
persists, and there is unconsciousness, death-like appearance and absence of
carotid pulse, external cardiac compression should be started.
External cardiac compression consists of the application of rhythmic
pressure over the lower half of the sternum. This compresses the heart and
produces artificial circulation because the heart lies almost in the middle of
the chest between the lower sternum and the spine.
External cardiac compression should always be accompanied by artificial
respiration. To be effective it requires sufficient pressure to depress the
victim's lower sternum 1-1/2 to 2 inches (3.8 to 5.1 centimeters) in an
adult; the rate should be once a second. Considerably less effort will be
required to achieve such depression in a child. The victim should be on his
back on a firm surface. The rescuer stations himself at the side of the
patient and places only the heel of one hand over the lower half of the ster-
num. He then places his other hand on top of the first one and rocks forward
so that his shoulders are almost directly above the patient's chest. Keeping
the arms straight and elbows locked, he exerts adequate pressure almost verti-
cally downward. The preferred rate of 60 per minute is usually rapid enough
to maintain blood flow and slow enough to allow cardiac refill. The com-
pressions should be regular, smooth, and uninterrupted, with compression and
relaxation being of equal duration. Under no circumstances should compression
be interrupted for more than 5 seconds.
When there are two rescuers, optimum ventilation and circulation are
achieved by quickly interposing one "inflation after five chest compressions
without any pause in compressions (5:1 ratio). Every interruption in cardiac
compression results in a drop of blood pressure to zero. One rescuer performs
external cardiac compression while the other one keeps the patient's head
tilted back and continues ventilation. When there is only one rescuer he must
20
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perform both artificial respiration and artificial circulation using a 15:2
ratio; two quick lung inflations after every 15 chest compressions. Periodic
palpation of the carotid pulse should be employed to check the effectiveness
of external cardiac compressions or the return of a spontaneous heartbeat.
Complications occurring from the use of cardiopulmonary resuscitation may
include fracture of the ribs and sternum, laceration of the liver, and fat
emboli.
Several rules to follow are:
o Never compress over the xiphoid process, the lower tip of the
sternum. It extends down over the abdomen and pressure on it may
cause a dangerous laceration of the liver.
o Never let the fingers touch the patient's ribs when compressing.
Keep just the heel of the hand in the middle of the victim's
chest over the lower half of his sternum.
o Never use sudden or jerking movements to compress the chest.
o Never compress the chest and abdomen simultaneously. This traps
the liver and may cause it to rupture.
SHOCK
Severe injury or emotional upset is usually followed by shock. It can
also follow infection, pain, disturbance of circulation from bleeding, stroke,
heart attack, heat exhaustion, food or chemical poisoning, extensive burns,
etc. The following information pertains to traumatic, injury-related shock
rather than to emotional shock, per se.
The signs of shock include:
o Cold and clammy skin with beads of perspiration on the forehead and
palms of hands.
o Pale face, weakness, dilated pupils, and weak, rapid pulse.
o Complaint by the victim of feeling cold, or even shaking chills.
o Frequent nausea or vomiting.
o Shallow breathing.
To prevent shock;
o If possible, correct cause of shock (e.g., control bleeding).
o Keep victim lying down.
21
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o Keep the airway open. If victim is vomiting, turn his head to the
side so that the neck is arched.
o Keep victim warm if weather is cold or damp.
o Give fluids only if victim does not have head or abdominal injuries,
probably will not require surgery, and professional help will be more
than one hour arriving. Give him sips and do not give stimulants.
A suggested formula is one pinch baking soda and two pinches salt per
glass (10 oz.) of water.
o Reassure victim.
o NEVER give alcoholic beverages.
o DO NOT give fluids to unconscious or semiconscious persons.
O PREVENTION OF SHOCK SHOULD BE CONSIDERED WITH EVERY INJURY.
POISONING
Be fore medical aid _is_ available, the following should be_ done.
SPEED IS ESSENTIAL;
o Act before the body has time to absorb the poison.
o When medical aid is available, give physician all possible knowledge
available on the poison.
The nature of the poison will determine the first aid measure to use:
Swallowed poisons
o If victim is conscious, give water or milk immediately.
DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING (except on the advice of doctor or Poison Control
Center):
o If the victim is unconscious,
o Is in convulsions,
o Is known to have swallowed a petroleum product (kerosene, gasoline,
lighter fluid), toilet bowl cleaner, rust remover, drain cleaner, lye,
acids for personal or household use, iodine, styptic pencil, washing
soda, ammonia water, or household bleach, or has symptoms of severe
pain, or a burning sensation in mouth or throat.
22
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DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING if "do not induce vomiting" is indicated in the
first aid segment of the chemical data sheets.
o Information on labels may be incorrect; contact physician or Poison
Control Center immediately for proper advice.
o Call for medical aid immediately.
o Begin mouth-to-mouth resuscitation if the victim has difficulty
breathing.
o If safe (see above), induce vomiting.
o Induce vomiting b£ use of 10 grams salt in 200 cc of warm water
(2 teaspoonfuls in a glass of warm water) or use 30 cc's or one ounce
of syrup of ipecac.
o When vomiting begins, place the victim face down with head lower than
hips. This prevents vomitus from entering the airways and causing
further damage.
Inhaled poisons
o Assist or carry victim to fresh air immediately.
o Apply artificial respiration if breathing has stopped or is irregular.
o Call physician.
o Treat for shock.
o Keep victim as quiet as possible.
o DO NOT give alcohol in any form.
o DO NOT become a victim by exposure to the same poison.
o Rescuer should employ appropriate protective clothing and breathing
apparatus until clear of hazard.
EYES
First aid for chemicals in the eyes is the immediate washing of the eyes
with large quantities of water. Hold the eyelids open and roll the eye while
irrigating with water. Emphasis should be placed on the amount of water, the
speed with which it is applied, amd washing the eye "from the inside outward".
Eyes should be washed for at least 10 minutes. A delay o_f_ 3Q_ seconds can mean
the difference between n£ injury t£ the eye and permanent loss of_ vision.
23
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Chemical burns to the eyes can be aggravated by contact lenses. Chemicals
spilled in the eyes tend to accumulate under contact lenses. In addition, for
proper irrigation, contact lenses need to be removed. It is advisable not to
wear contact lenses at a spill site.
In cases of alkaline or acid chemicals in the eyes, irrigation with
neutralizing agents should not be used as first-aid treatment. Acids in
contact with the cornea will react .with protein to form an insoluble barrier.
This barrier prevents penetration of the acid into the eye. An alkaline
solution does not form this barrier and is free to soak deep into the eye. If
this happens with an alkaline solution and an acid neutralizing agent is used,
the alkaline solution will be trapped under the insoluble barrier formed by
the acid-protein reaction. This will prevent the leaching out of the alkaline
solution by irrigation.
Most serious chemical injuries to eyes can be avoided by quickly and
properly washing the eyes with large amounts of water.
BURNS
General
o Burns can result from heat (thermal burns) or from chemicals (chemical
burns).
o Shock can complicate every type of burn.
o A person with "burn shock" may die unless he receives immediate first
aid.
o In "burn shock" the liquid part of the blood is sent by the body into
the burned areas. There may not be enough blood volume left to keep
the brain, heart, and other organs functioning normally.
o All burns should be seen by a physician or nurse.
Objectives of first aid care for burns are to;
o Prevent and treat shock.
o Prevent contamination.
o Control pain.
Extensive thermal burns
o Place the cleanest available cloth material over all burned body areas
to exclude air. Covering for burns should be a clean, thick, dry
dressing. Clean newspaper can be substituted if no clean cloth is
available.
24
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o Have victim lie down.
o Call physician.
o Place victim's head and chest a little lower than the rest of the
body. Elevate the legs slightly if possible.
o If the victim is conscious and can swallow, give him plenty of non-
alcoholic liquids to drink (water, tea, coffee, dilute salt solution).
t
o Move to hospital immediately.
Small thermal burns
o If SKIN IS NOT BROKEN, immerse burned part in clean, cold water to
relieve pain, reduce inflammation. Do not apply ice directly to the
skin.
o Soak a sterile gauze pad or clean cloth in baking soda solution:
2 tablespoonfuls baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) to 1 quart of luke-
warm water.
o Place pad over burn and bandage it loosely.
o DO NOT disturb or open blisters.
Chemical burns
o Immediately flush with water; speed in washing is most important in
reducing the extent of injury.
o Flush affected area with plenty of water.
o Remove all contaminated clothing and shoes.
o Place the cleanest available material over the burned area.
o Treat for shock.
o If the burned area is extensive, have victim lie down.
o Keep him down until medical aid is available.
o Place his chest and head a little lower than the rest of the body
(raise the legs slightly if possible).
o Maintain an open airway.
o If he is conscious and can swallow, give him plenty of non-alcoholic
liquids to drink.
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o DO NOT APPLY OINTMENTS, greases, baking soda, or other substances to
extensive burns.
ENVIRONMENTAL TEMPERATURE EXTREMES
Heat exhaustion
SYMPTOMS:
o Pale and clammy skin.
o Pulse rapid and weak.
o Victim complains of weakness, headache, or nausea.
o Victim may have cramps in abdomen or limbs.
FIRST AID:
o Have victim lie down with his head level with or lower than his body.
o Move victim to a cool place, but protect him from chilling.
o Give the victim salt water (1 teaspoonful salt to 1 quart water) to
drink i.f_ he_ is_ conscious.
o Loosen tight clothing.
o Call for medical aid.
Heat stroke
SYMPTOMS:
o Flushed and hot skin.
o Pulse rapid and strong.
o Victim often is unconscious.
FIRST AID:
o Call for medical aid.
o Cool body by sponging it with cold water or by cold applications.
o If_ the victim is_ fully conscious and can swallow, give him salt water
(1 teaspoonful salt to 1 quart water).
o DO NOT give alcohol in any form.
26
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Frostbite
SYMPTOMS:
o Skin color changes to white or greyish-yellow as frostbite develops.
o Initial pain which quickly subsides.
o Victim feels cold and numb; he usually is not aware of frostbite.
FIRST AID:
o Cover the frostbitten part with a warm hand or woolen material.
o If fingers or hand are frostbitten, have victim hold his hand in his
armpit, next to his body.
o Bring victim inside as soon as possible.
o Place frostbitten part in warm water, about 42 C. (108 F.).
o Gently wrap the part in blankets if warm water is not available or is
impractical to use.
o Let circulation reestablish itself naturally.
o When the part is warmed, encourage the victim to exercise fingers and
toes.
o Give victim a warm, sweet, non-alcoholic drink.
o DO NOT RUB with snow or ice. DO NOT USE HOT WATER, hot water
bottles, or heat lamps over the frostbitten area.
MOVING THE INJURED
General
Do not move an injured person until an experienced crew arrives, unless
there is.real danger of his receiving further injury by remaining at accident
site.
Control bleeding if possible, maintain breathing, and immobilize all
suspected fracture sites before moving.
Treat for shock.
Pulling the victim to safety
Pull the victim head first or feet first, not sideways.
BE SURE HEAD IS PROTECTED.
27
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Lifting the victim to safety
If he must be lifted before a check for injuries can be made, every part
of the body should be supported. The body should be kept in a straight line
and should not be bent. Once victim is lifted, the lifter is responsible for
the victim's safe return to the ground/floor.
Exercise care in the approach of any "downed" co-worker or bystander
victim. Rapid action may be called for, but hasty and careless intervention
may lead to additional injury or loss of life, avoidable if a few moments are
taken to assess the immediacy and severity of the situation. Once again, the
exercise of careful, informed judgement and plain common sense is the most
important safeguard of personnel health.
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SECTION 6. HAZARDOUS CHEMICAL DATA
Information on the nature, hazard, exposure and safety precautions for
655 alphabetically arranged chemical compounds is presented in Part B of this
report (Chemical Data), furnished under separate cover for loose-leaf binding.
Chemical synonyms and Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) Registry Numbers are
included to facilitate cross-referencing with other hazardous materials
literature and computerized data bases. Chemical Abstracts Service Registry
Numbers provide a unique identifier for a chemical substance and serve as the
link between the various names by which a single substance is denoted in the
Abstracts on Health Effects of Environmental Pollutants (KEEP) (BIS, 1975).
It should be noted that the Registry Numbers per se have no chemical signifi-
cance but are assigned as each new substance enters the CAS Registry System.
In CAS publications and in the KEEP Chemical Index Guide, the Registry
Number contains from five to nine digits separated into three groups by hy-
phens. The last group contains a single digit, the middle group two digits,
and the first group all remaining digits, e.g., 504-37-3, 35014-03-8. These
numbers appear in a modified form in the HEEP monthly and annual indexes. In
the former, the hyphens are deleted; in the latter, the hyphens are deleted
and prefix zeros attached where necessary to make up a nine-digit number.
Instructions for use of the Registry Numbers for cross-reference are .included
in the HEEP Chemical Index Guide.
Information on degrees of hazard, where available, is summarized utilizing
the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Hazard Identification System.
The order of severity of each hazard, "health" (toxicity), "flammability" and
"reactivity" (instability and water reactivity), is designated on a scale of
zero (0), indicating no special hazard, to four (4) indicating severe hazard
or extreme danger. In a diamond-shaped diagram (upper right-hand corner on
chemical data .sheets) the toxicity hazard is identified at the left, flamma-
bility at the top and reactivity at the right. The bottom space is used to
denote unusual reactivity with water, using a "crossed-W" character, radiation
hazard, using the symboli& , or strong oxidizers using OXY. The following
example shows how the hazard identification system would apply to the compound
benzoyl chloride.
29
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FLAMMABILITY
\
\
HEALTH
REACTIVITY
Example: BENZOYL CHLORIDE
A detailed description of the hazard identification system used here is
included in "Recommended System for the Identification of the Fire Hazards of
Materials" (NFPA No. 704M) (NFPA, 1975).
The diagram identifies benzoyl chloride as having a health (toxicity)
hazard rating of 3, a flammability hazard rating of 2, and a reactivity hazard
rating of 1. Note, also, the designation of unusual reactivity with water.
Materials with a health hazard rating of 4 can cause death or major
residual injury even with prompt medical attention. A health hazard rating of
3 relates to materials which could cause serious temporary or residual injury
from short exposure even with prompt medical attention. Materials with a
rating of 2 can, upon intense or continuous exposure, cause temporary incapa-
citation or possible residual injury unless prompt medical attention is re-
ceived. At a rating of 1, materials can be expected to cause irritation
and/or minor injury with no treatment. A hazard rating of 0 is applied to
materials which provide, under fire conditions, no hazard beyond that of other
ordinary combustible materials.
Those materials which rapidly or completely vaporize at normal tempera-
tures and atmospheric pressures or which are readily dispersed in air and burn
readily are assigned a flammability rating of 4. Liquids and solids which can
be ignited under almost all temperature conditions are given a rating of 3.
If exposure to relatively high ambient temperatures is necessary for ignition,
flammability ratings of 2 may be assigned. Materials which require consider-
able preheating prior to ignition (including most ordinary combustible mater-
ials) are given a rating of 1. Those materials which will not burn are given
a flammability rating of 0.
The highest reactivity rating of 4 is given to those materials capable of
spontaneous detonation, explosive decomposition or reaction at normal tempera-
tures and pressures. Materials which require heating in confinement, strong
30
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initiating force, or mixing with water to detonate or generate an explosive
reaction are rated 3. Normally unstable materials which readily undergo
violent chemical change short of detonation at elevated temperatures and
pressures or which react violently in or from potentially explosive mixtures
with water are given a rating of 2. Normally stable materials which can
become unstable at elevated temperatures and pressures or which release
moderate energy in reaction with water are rated at 1. A rating of 0 is given
to those materials which are stable, even under fire conditions, and do not
react with water.
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SECTION 7. HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE PRIORITY LISTING
The need for some kind of priority listing of hazardous substances sub-
ject to spills has been expressed in the past. Such a priority system should
provide weighting to both anticipated frequency of occurrence (based upon
historical spill data) and hazard to on-site spill monitoring and clean-up
personnel and the public. The approach followed in this report attempts to
establish a balance between the frequency of occurrence of the spilled material
and the three primary hazards to spill personnel, namely toxicity, combusti-
bility, and reactivity.
The priority system is designed to fulfill several functions. It should:
1. Call attention to those chemicals
a. of high occurrence likelihood
b. providing unusual hazard to on-site personnel
c. requiring special or unusual protective equipment or techniques.
2. Help to identify areas in which spill-personnel preparedness is less
than adequate with respect to equipment and/or training.
3. Provide some guide to the allocation of resources for the monitoring
of hazardous materials.
4. Suggest those areas which warrant precedence in research and develop-
mental activities for detection, identification, and monitoring of hazardous
substances.
The specific hazard designations employed in the priority listing,
(Table 1) are those contained in the CHRIS and NFPA documents (U.S. Coast
Guard, 1974)(NFPA 1972, 1975). The spill frequency data were obtained from
the Oil and Hazardous Materials Spill Information Retrieval System (OHMSIRS)*
and cover the 4-year period from 1970-1974. The following formula was used to
establish the Hazard Priority Numbers (P) presented in Table 1:
P = (T2 + F2 + R2) + f
Where T = Toxicity hazard (0-4)
F = Fire hazard (0-4)
R = Reactivity (explosion) hazard (0-4)
f = Frequency of occurrence (from 1970-1974)
* System run for U.S. EPA by COMNET (Computer Network)
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The power function is used with each hazard category to provide a level
of discrimination commensurate with an increased hazard level, e.g., T = 1
vice T = 2. Asterisks next to certain priority numbers indicate that one or
more of the hazard values were not available. The priority number was as-
signed according to the known values.
TABLE 1. PRIORITY LIST OF CHEMICAL SPILL HAZARDS.
See text for equational components necessary to compute hazard priority
numbers (P). Asterisk denotes one or more hazard values unknown; P computed
with known values.
Sulfuric acid
Sodium hydroxide
Ammonia anhydrous
Phenol
Toluene
Xylenes
Acrylonitrile
Hydrochloric acid
Hydrogen cyanide
Vinyl chloride
Styrene
Ethylene oxide
Dinitro-o-sec butyl phenol
Methyl parathion
Acrylonitrile polymer mixture
Amine nitrate solution
Ammonium nitrate
Ethyl parathion
Oxygen
Phosphorus pyridide
Propane
Chlorine
Isopropyl acetate
Cyanopyridene
Dimethylamine
T
3
3
3
3
2
2
4
3
4
2
2
2
3
4
4
2
2
4
2
2
1
3
1
4
3
F
0
0
1
2
3
3
3
0
4
4
3
4
2
3
3
3
1
3
4
3
4
0
3
1
4
R
2
1
0
0
0
0
2
0
2
1
2
3
4
2
2
4
3
2
3
4
0
1
0
3
0
f
82
67
37
34
32
32
13
33
4
18
16
3
3
3
1
1
16
1
1
1
13
19
18
1
2
P
95
77
47
47
45
45
42
42
40
38
33
32
32
32
30
30
30
30
30
30
30
29
28
27
27
(Continued)
33
-------
TABLE 1. PRIORITY LIST OF CHEMICAL SPILL HAZARDS.
See text for equational components necessary to compute hazard priority
numbers (P). Asterisk denotes one or more hazard values unknown; P computed
with known values (Continued).
Hydrogen sulfide
Liquid natural gas
Nitric acid
Tetraethyl lead
Butadiene
Vinyl acetate
Butadiene nitrile
2-Hydroxy methyl-2-nitro-l,
3 -propane
Methyl ethyl ketone peroxide
Vinylidene chloride
Ethylene
Methanol
Diamine (Hydrazine)
Dichloropropene
Nitrocellulose
Phosphine oxide (Mapo-Metepa)
Potassium
Adiponitrile
Calcium carbide
Epichlorohydrin
Acetic acid
Chlordane
Ethyl methacrylate monomer
Formaldehyde
Mercury
Methyl chloride
Phosphorus white
Ethylene glycol
Methyl methacrylate
Pentane
Toxaphene
Turpentine
Ethanol
Ethyl aery late
LPG (liquefied hydrocarbon gas)
Methyl acrylate
Parathion
Acrylic acid
Benelate
Benzene
Butane
T
3
3
4
3
2
2
2
2
2
2
1
1
3
3
2
3
3
4
1
3
2
4
3
2
4
2
3
1
2
1
4
3
0
2
1
2
4
3
3
2
1
F
4
4
0
2
4
3
4
2
2
4
4
3
3
3
3
3
3
2
4
3
2
0
2
2
2
4
3
2
3
4
0
2
3
3
4
3
1
2
2
3
4
R
0
1
1
3
2
2
2
4
4
2
2
0
2
1
3
2
2
0
2
2
1
0
3
0
0
0
1
0
2
0
0
2
0
2
0
2
0
2
2
0
0
f
2
1
10
5
2
9
1
1
1
1
3
14
1
5
1
1
1
2
1
1
12
5
1
13
1
1
2
18
3
3
4
3
10
2
2
2
2
1
1
5
1
P
27
27
27
27
26
26
25
25
25
25
24
24
23
23
23
23
23
22
22
22
21
21
21
21
21
21
21
20
20
20
20
20
19
19
19
19
19
18
18
18
18
(Continued)
34
-------
TABLE 1. PRIORITY LIST OF CHEMICAL SPILL HAZARDS.
See text for equational components necessary to compute hazard priority
numbers (P). Asterisk denotes one or more hazard values unknown; P computed
with known values (Continued).
Copper cyanide
Hydrofluoric acid
Isobutyl methyl ketone
Lead compounds
Methyl methacrylate resin
Naphtha
Acetone
Ammonium hydroxide
Bromine
Chlorine gas
Chromic acid
Hydrogen fluoride gas
Polystyrene
Sodium
Carbon disulfide
Chlorinated benzenes
Chlorosulfonic acid
Ethyl benzene
Latex
Hexamethylene diamine
PCB
Phenolic waste
Propionaldehyde
Sulfur dichloride
Te trahydrof ur an
Acetonitrile
"Antiknock" mixture
n-Butyl alcohol
Cadmium oxide
Cyclohexane
Isopropanol
Mesityl oxide
Methyl ethyl ketone
Phenyl ethylene
Phosphorus pentasulfide
Phosphorus trichloride
Toluene diisocyanate
Valeraldehyde
Aniline sulfate
Cresol oil
Cresylic acid
Dichloromethane (Methylene
chloride)
T
3
4
2
3
2
3
1
3
4
3
3
4
2
3
2
2
3
2
2
3
2
3
2
3
2
2
3
1
3
1
1
3
1
2
3
3
3
2
3
3
3
2
F
2
0
3
2
3
2
3
1
0
1
1
0
2
1
3
3
0
3
0
1
0
2
3
2
3
3
2
3
2
3
3
2
3
2
1
0
1
3
2
2
2
1
R
2
0
2
2
2
4
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
2
0
0
2
0
2
0
0
0
1
0
1
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
2
2
2
1
1
0
0
0
0
f
2
2
1
1
1
1
7
7
1
7
7
1
5
3
3
3
3
3
8
6
12
3
2
3
2
2
2
5
1
5
5
2
5
3
1
2
4
1
1
1
1
9
P
18
18
18
18
18
18
17
17
17
17
17
17
17
17
16
16
16
16
16
16
16
16
16
16
16
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
14
14
14
14
(Continued)
35
-------
TABLE 1. PRIORITY LIST OF CHEMICAL SPILL HAZARDS.
See text for equational components necessary to compute hazard priority
numbers (P). Asterisk denotes one or more hazard values unknown; P computed
with known values (Continued).
Dichloropropane
Diethyl amine
Diethyl aniline
Ethylene diamine
Ethylene dichloride
n-Ethyl morpholine
Formic acid
Guthion
Hydrogen peroxide
Nitrobenzene
Oil, crude
Propyl alcohol
Sodium sulfate
o-Toluidine
n-Butyl acrylate
Creosote
Nitrogen liquid
Styrene "tar"
Biphenyl
Carbon black
Carbon tetrachloride
Diethyl sulfate
Endrin
Gasoline
Hexane
Octyl alcohol
Zinc chloride
Arsenic acid
Butyl acetate
Calcium oxide
p-Cymene
Ethyl butyraldehyde
Iron ore
Isopropyl acetate
Latex liquid
Methyl propyl benzene
Monoethanolamine
Pentachlorophenol
Phosphoric acid
Potassium hydroxide
Quinoline
Silicone tetrachloride
Sodium chromate
T
2
2
3
3
2
2
3
4
2
3
1
2
3
3
2
2
3
2
3
3
3
3
3
1
1
2
3
3
1
1
2
1
1
2
2
2
3
2
3
3
3
3
F
3
3
2
2
3
3
2
1
0
2
3
3
0
2
2
2
0
2
1
0
0
1
1
3
3
2
0
0
3
0
2
3
2
3
0
2
2
0
0
0
1
0
0
R
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
3
0
0
0
0
0
2
2
0
2
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
0
2
0
2
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
f
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
4
1
5
1
1
1
4
1
2
3
3
1
2
2
2
4
3
2
1
9
2
2
2
1
3
3
3
2
7
1
1
2
2
P
14
14
14
14
14
14
14
14
14
14
14
14
14
14
13
13
13
13
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
11
11
11
11
11*
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
(Continued)
36
-------
TABLE 1. PRIORITY LIST OF CHEMICAL SPILL HAZARDS.
See text for equational components necessary to compute hazard priority
numbers (P). Asterisk denotes one or more hazard values unknown; P computed
with known values (Continued).
Sulfonic acid
Sulfurous acid solution
Titanium tetrachloride
Vinyl toluene
Aldrin
Aluminum sulfate
Ammonium oxalate
Ammonium sulfate
Arsenic tetrachloride
Arsenic trioxide
Benzyl chloride
Berrylium fluoride
Calcium fluoride
Cellosolve solvent
Copper sulfate
Diazinon
Dibromoe thane
Dibromomethane
Fluoboric acid
o-Dichlorobenzene
Iodine
Iron floe
Iron sulfide
MSMA (monosodium methane
ar senate)
Naptha resin
Perchloroethylene
Sevin (Carbaryl)
Sodium cyanide
Sodium oxide
Sulfur dioxide
Zinc chromate
Zinc cyanide
Camphene
Cyprex (Dodene)
DDT
Formaldehyde resin
Furfural
Methyl ethyl pyridine
Potassium br ornate
Propionic acid
Propylene glycol acetate
Sodium chlorate
T
3
3
3
2
3
3
3
3
3
3
2
3
3
2
3
3
3
3
3
2
3
1
1
3
2
2
2
3
3
3
3
3
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
1
F
0
1
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
2
2
0
2
0
2
0
0
0
1
0
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
0
R
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
2
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
f
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
5
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
4
P
11
11
11
11
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
9*
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
(Continued)
37
-------
TABLE 1. PRIORITY LIST OF CHEMICAL SPILL HAZARDS.
See text for equational components necessary to compute hazard priority
numbers (P). Asterisk denotes one or more hazard values unknown; P computed
with known values (Continued).
Sodium hypochlorite
Tetralin
Methyl styrene
Trichloroethylene
Zinc
Chromium
2,4-D
Diisobutyl ketone
Glyoxal
Methyl amyl acetate
Petroleum wax: Paraffin
Sulfur monochloride
Adipic acid
Aluminum oxide
Diesel
Ferric chloride
Kerosene
Magnesium ore
Naphtha (Stoddard solvent)
Nonanol
Paraformaldehyde
Phthalic anhydride
Rotenone
Sodium sulfide
Sodium sulfite
Amine ethyl ethanolamine
Calcium napthanate
Cobaltous napthanate
Glycerine
Heptanol
Hybar
Methylene chloride
Polyethylene glycol
Propanethiol
Rubber (natural latex)
2,4,5-t
Urea formaldehyde
Alum (Potassium aluminum
sulfate)
Ammonium phosphate
Carbon
DMDT (Methoxychlor)
Iron oxide
T
2
2
1
2
1
0
2
1
2
1
1
2
1
2
0
2
0
0
0
1
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
1
0
2
2
1
2
2
2
1
1
0
1
1
1
F
2
2
2
1
2
2
0
2
1
2
2
1
1
0
2
0
2
1
2
2
1
1
1
1
0
2
1
2
0
1
0
0
0
1
0
1
0
0
R
0
0
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
f
1
1
2
3
2
3
3
2
2
2
2
1
4
2
2
2
2
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
3
1
1
1
3
1
1
1
3
3
4
1
3
3
P
9
9
8
8
8
7
7
7
7
7
7
7
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
5*
5*
5*
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
4
4*
4
4
4
(Continued)
38
-------
TABLE 1. PRIORITY LIST OF CHEMICAL SPILL HAZARDS.
See text for equational components necessary to compute hazard priority
numbers (P). Asterisk denotes one or more hazard values unknown; P computed
with known values (Continued).
Sodium dichromate
Tallow
Titanium dioxide
Urea
Aluminum stearate
Cooking oil
Dowtherm
Isooctyl alcohol
Mirex
Oleic acid
Phosphorus red
Propylene glycol
Sodium nitrate
Triethanolamine
Zinc oxide
Borax
Carbonic acid (C0_)
Captan
DMT
Hexamethylamine diamine methyl
ethyl ketone
Iron sulfate
Methyl acetylene propadiene
Nonyl phenol
Potassium chloride
Potassium permanganate
Silver nitrate
Sodium silicate
Zinc ammonium chloride
n-Aminethal piperazine
Amylase
1,2-Benzisco cyazalone
Diethylene benzene
Isopropanal
Polyvinyl chloride
Pyranol
Sodium isthiate
Thimet
T
1
0
1
0
1
0
1
1
1
0
0
0
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
0
1
1
1
1
F
0
1
0
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
R
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
NO
0
0
0
0
0
f
2
3
3
3
1
2
1
1
2
2
1
2
1
1
2
1
1
1
2
2
1
2
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
P
4
4
4
4
3
3
3
3
3*
3
3
3
3
3
3
2
2
2
2*
2*
2
2*
2*
2
2
2
2
2
1*
1*
1*
1*
1*
1*
1*
1*
1*
39
-------
REFERENCES
American National Red Cross. 1973. American Red Cross Standard First Aid
and Personal Safety. Doubleday and Company, Inc., Garden City, New York.
Biosciences Information Service. 1975. Abstracts on Health Effects of
Environmental Pollutants. Chemical Index Guide. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Hawley, G. G. 1971. The Condensed Chemical Dictionary, Eighth Edition. Van
Nostrand Reinhold Co., New York.
National Fire Protection Association, International. 1972. National Fire
Codes, Volume 3: Combustible Solids, Dusts, and Explosives. Boston,
Massachusetts.
National Fire Protection Association, International. 1975. Fire Protection
Guide on Hazardous Materials, Sixth Edition. Boston, Massachusetts.
Sax, N. I. 1963. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials, Second
Edition. Reinhold Press, New York.
U.S. Coast Guard. 1974. CHRIS: Hazardous Chemical Data. CG-446-2.
Washington, D.C.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1972. Field Detection and Damage
Assessment Manual for Oil and Hazardous Materials Spills. Office of Oil and
Hazardous Materials. Washington, D.C.
40
-------
TECHNICAL REPORT DATA
(Please read Instructions on the reverse before completing}
1. REPORT NO.
EPA-600/4-79-008a
2.
3. RECIPIENT'S ACCESSION NO.
4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SPILL MONITORING:
and Chemical Hazard Guide, Part A
Safety Handbook
5. REPORT DATE
January 1979
6. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION CODE
7. AUTHOR(S)
Llewellyn R. Williams, Eleftheria Calliga, Robert Thomas
8. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NO.
9. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME AND ADDRESS
Environmental Monitoring and Support Laboratory
Office of Research and Development
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Las Vegas, NV 89114
10. PROGRAM ELEMENT NO.
1ED613
11. CONTRACT/GRANT NO.
12. SPONSORING AGENCY NAME AND ADDRESS
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-Las Vegas, NV
Office of Research and Development
Environmental Monitoring and Support Laboratory
Las Vegas, NV 89114
13. TYPE OF REPORT AND PERIOD COVERED
Final
14. SPONSORING AGENCY CODE
EPA/600/07
15. SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES
This volume is for use with its companion volume, Part B.
16. ABSTRACT
This two-part document is intended to serve as a guide to the hazards associated
with a broad range of chemical compounds which may be encountered in hazardous
materials spills. The document addresses 655 chemicals identified on the basis
of known toxicity or spill history and designated "hazardous" by the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency.
Part A of this document is a safety and first aid reference for personnel
responding to spills of hazardous materials which may involve any of the chemicals
addressed. It includes safety considerations, first aid procedures, and descrip-
tions of protective equipment; a description of the hazard-rating system used in
Part B; and a priority listing of hazardous materials based on their hazard
ratings and reported spill frequency.
Part B of this document is an index of the 655 chemicals. Part B includes a
data sheet for each chemical showing its CAS number, synonyms, and hazard priority
number, and giving information on hazards, safety measures, and exposure. This part
is provided in a form for loose-leaf binding to facilitate addition, revision, and
update as new data become available.
17.
KEY WORDS AND DOCUMENT ANALYSIS
DESCRIPTORS
b.lDENTIFIERS/OPEN ENDED TERMS C. COSATI Field/Group
hazardous materials
toxicology, toxicity
first aid, safety
chemical properties
flammability
chemical reactivity
hazardous chemical
spills, spill monitors,
spill response
11
06J
06T
13L
18. DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT
RELEASE TO PUBLIC
19. SECURITY CLASS (This Report)
UNCLASSIFIED
21. NO. OF PAGES
48
20. SECU
1(This page)
22. PRICE
A03
EPA Form 2220-1 (Rev. 4-77) PREVIOUS EDITION is OBSOLETE
------- |