Emergency Response

One common deficiency we encounter in our chlorine (Cl2) work is the management of these emergency response kits (e.g. A, B, and C Kits).  We find three common failures regardless of the type of Kit: Kit(s) is not inspected “routinely” Kit contents are not managed per their specific requirements (i.e.. hood gaskets) Personnel lack training…...

One of the audit findings that we believe to be an essential requirement certainly raises many folks’ blood pressure.  We get accused of “piling on” when we write up findings in our OSH and PSM/RMP audits regarding the incorrect testing of a facility’s employee alarm system(s).  And we use OSHA’s requirements, which are actually quite…...

The Chlorine Institute has updated its A, B, and C Kit manuals with some significant revisions.  Unfortunately, these manuals are no longer free to non-members, but if you utilize these kits in your emergency response program, they are a MUST-have.  Luckily they cost only $40.  Here is a peek at the B-Kit Manual revisions:… Membership...

One of my pet peeves in safety is emergency egress lighting.  From not having any to having some serious deficiencies in the setup and functioning of the lighting.  OSHA has failed to establish a minimum lighting intensity for this emergency lighting.  OSHA has established the brightness for EXIT signs, but when it comes to the…...

At 1:30 p.m. on August 7, 2022, an employee worked as a production supervisor in his office when the deluge system alarm was activated. Approximately 30 seconds after the audible alarm was engaged, the foam generators were activated and began to disperse 2.2% high expansion foam.  The employee attempted to exit his office to reach…...

The Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) establishes requirements for federal, state, and local governments, Indian tribes, and industry regarding emergency planning and reporting on hazardous and toxic chemicals. Individual facilities are required to conduct emergency planning with state and local emergency planning committees, report accidental releases to the proper authorities, and report annually…...

Once again, I can not stress how valuable FM Global can be to your safety efforts.  Their Loss Prevention Data Sheets are FREE and some of the best guidance we can find.  Our profession is always complaining about spending money on ANSI, ASME, NFPA, etc. codes and standards. Yet, these Loss Prevention Data Sheets are…...

April 8, 2023 — Quinnesec, Michigan The All Hazards Training Center at The University of Findlay has developed the Rail Car Incident Response for Crude, Ethanol, and Other Flammable Liquids training course for the U.S. Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (DOT PHMSA) to educate emergency responders on freight rail car incidents…...

I can not understand why the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM) is ending WISER. This single ER tool was undoubtedly the best available ER tool! I have been sharing it for at least the past 10 years in all my HAZMAT courses. It is indeed a SAD day; as of February 28th, 2023, NLM…...

The 2021 international Building Code (IBC) has a new requirement that will impact EXIT doors and their exterior landings.  Most states have NOT adopted this edition of the IBC, so this is just a heads up of what’s to come.  The new section (1809.5 .1 Frost protection at required exits) states:… Membership Required You must...