It is important to be mindful of the emergencies that can occur in your home or at the facility in which you work. September is recognized as Emergency Preparedness Month, and is the perfect time to evaluate your emergency preparedness procedures.
Shelter in Place for Chemical Emergencies
In 2021, the Chemical Safety Board investigated three large chemical emergency events in the United States. These included a 100,000 pound acetic acid spill, an explosion, and a liquid nitrogen release. These are extreme cases, but even minor spills can be hazardous if not handled correctly.
From large to small, knowing what to do in the case of a spill or release can help you, your family or others in your work facility. STEP coordinates the Wally Shelter-in-Place program for schools located near chemical plants. This helps students and families know what to do in the event of a chemical release in the area.
What Do Local Industries Need for Emergency Preparedness?
The requirements set forth by OSHA can be found in 49 CFR 1910 for General Industry. Companies must follow Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response 1910.120 and Hazardous Communications 1910.1200 which outline specific requirements for training and notifications.
We're Here to Help!
In addition to our Shelter=in-Place program, STEP offers HazMat preparedness for emergency responders, hazard communications, and incident commander training which complies with OSHA's requirements set forth by the 1910 standard.
Let STEP help you prepare for chemical emergencies by attending one of our upcoming Open 24hr Hazmat courses or by setting up site-specific training at your facility. Contact us at (270) 753-6529 to assist in your needs.
Source: https://www.csb.gov/investigations/
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