Resist rushing In
Approach cautiously from upwind, uphill or upstream:
- Stay clear of Vapor, Fumes, Smoke and Spills
- Keep vehicle at a safe distance from the scene
Secure the scene:
- Isolate the area and protect yourself and others
Identify the hazards using any of the following:
- Container labels
- Shipping documents
- Rail Car and Road Trailer Identification Chart
- Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
- Knowledge of persons on scene
- Consult applicable guide page
Assess the situation:
- Is there a fire, a spill or a leak?
- What are the weather conditions?
- What is the terrain like?
- Who/what is at risk: people, property or the environment?
- What actions should be taken – evacuation, shelter in-place or dike?
- What resources (human and equipment) are required?
- What can be done immediately?
- Advise your headquarters to notify responsible agencies and call for assistance from qualified personnel
- Enter only when wearing appropriate protective gear
- Rescue attempts and protecting property must be weighed against you becoming part of the problem
- Establish a command post and lines of communication
- Continually reassess the situation and modify response accordingly
- Consider safety of people in the immediate area first, including your own safety
Above all: Do not assume that gases or vapors are harmless because of lack of a smell — odorless gases or vapors may be harmful. Use CAUTION when handling empty containers because they may still present hazards until they are cleaned and purged of all residues.