Occupational Safety and HealthGuidance Manual forHazardous Waste Site Activities

Prepared by:National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSHIOccupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)U.S. Coast Guard (USCG)U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

U.S. Department of Health and Human ServicesPublic Health ServiceCenters for Disease ControlNational Institute for Occupational Safety and Health

October 1985

For .... 117 the u.s.~t Printinc Off'ioe8uperia.teadeot fIlDxamenta, Uail Stop: SSOP.W'~ IX: ZDW2-9328

ContentsAcknowledgments iiNotice ii

Chapters1. introduction 1-12. Hazards 2-13. PI8nnlng ..d Organization 3-14."hIning 4-16. Med1c81 P,,,g"I1'" 6-18. SIte a...eterIzation 6-17. AIr Monitoring 7-18. Personal p,,,l&<:1Ive Equipment 8-19. SIte Control 9-1

10. DecontlImInatIo 10-111. Handling Drums Md a-Contain... 11-112. SIte Emergenciee 12-1

AppendicesA. Ust of Abbreviations 8I'ld Acronyms A-lB. Generic SIte Safety PIa... B-1C. Sample Hazardous Substance

Infonnation Form C-lD. Sample Decontamination Procedures for

Thnle 1YPica1 lBYals of Protection 0-1E. NIOSH. OSHA, Md EPA Regional Offices

8I'ld USCG District Offices E-l

AcknowledgmentsThe Occupational Safety and Health Guidance Manual frxHszarrJous~ Site Actittfties is a result of the collabora­tive efforts of individuals representing the NationaIInsti­tute for Occupational Safety and Health lNIOSHI. the leadagency. and the Occupational Safety and Health Adminis­tration (OSHA). the us. Coast Guard lUSCG•• and the us.EnvitOiloMltotal Protection I>Qency !EPA1.1>Qency represen­tatives on the steel. 'II committee for this project were:

Gatl Kleiner (OSHA)Sheldon Rabinovitz lNlOSHIDavid Weitzman !EPA)Glenn Wiltshire lUSCGl

Jan Connery of Eastern Research Group. Arfongton, Massa­chusetts, e<frted and coordinated production of the manualOver 100 incfJViduals and organizations also contn"butedsubstantially to the _lOll' 0oent of this manual by pr0vid­ing technical information and review. Although they are toonunerous to name ind"rviduarty. the steetiltg CCNi •• litteegretefully acknowledges their valuable contn"butions.

NoticeNo warranty, guarantee. or repleseiitatior ... 8Xpi is is E~ orimplied. is made by or on behalf of the us. Gowi '" 0MIt It asto the absolute conectJ lllSS or sufficiency of rr( represen­tation contained in this document:. The u.s. Govenvnet itassumes no _lSIboTIty in COl I iIlCtion thet ewith. nor canit be BSSLmed that alt lICCejJtabie safety measures are c0n­tained in this or associated documents. or that _ oradditional measures may not be required under particularor exceptional con<fotions or circumstances.

The met .tiOI. of a bnInd name product or company doesnot constitute endofsement by the National Institute forOccupational Safety and Health, the Occupational Safetyand Health Administration. the us. Coast Guard. or theu.s. EnVdOl mel rtal Ptota..'1:ion 1>Qency.

DHHS lNlOSHI Pub/"1CBtion No. 86-116

1. Introduction

In the past decade. industry. govemment. and the generalpublic have become increasingly aware of the need torespond to the hazardous waste problem, which hasgrown steadily over the past 40 years. In t980. Congresspassed the Comprehensive Environmental Response,Compensation. and Uability Act (CERCLA)-the Super­fund law-to provide for "Iiability, compensation,cleanup. and emergency response for hazardous sub­stances released into the environment and the cleanup ofinactive waste disposal sites."

This manual is a guidance document for managersresponsible for occupational safety and health programsat inactive hazardous waste sites. It assumes a basicknowledge of science and experience in occupationalsafety and health. lt is the product of a four-agency com­mittee (the National Institute for Occupational Safety andHealth [NIOSHI. the Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration [OSHAI. the U.S. Coast Guard [USCG).and the U.s. Environmental Protection Agency [EPA))mandated by CERCLA section 30t lfI to study the prob­lem of protecting the safety and health of workers at haz­ardous waste sites. and by CERCLA section 111(c1l6l todevelop a program to protect the health and safety ofemployees involved in response to hazardous substancereleases. removals. or remedial actions.

This manual is intended for federal. state, and local offi­cials and their contractors. It may be used:

• As a planning tool by govemment or privateindividuals.

• As 8 management tool by upper level or fieldmanagers.

• As an educational tool to provide a comprehensiveoverview of all aspects of safety and health protec­tion at hazardous waste sites.

• As a reference document for site personnel who needto review important aspects of health and safety.

This document is nor a detailed industrial hygiene text­book or a comprehensive source book on occupationalsafety and health. lt provides general guidance andshould be used as a preliminary basis for developing aspecific health and safety program. The appropriatenessof the information presented should always be evaluatedin light of site-specific conditions. Other sources andexperienced individuals should be consulted as necessaryfor the detail needed to design and implement occupa­tional safety and heatth programs at specific hazardouswaste sites.

Although this manual cites federal regulations, it is not adefinitive legal document and should not be taken 8S

such. While it represents a cooperative effort of the fouragencies to develop a document that blends their widelydiffering mandates. policies. and procedures in specificareas. the manual may not include elements of eachagency's policies that should be considered whendeveloping occupational safety and health programs forhazardous waste sites. Individuals who are responsiblefor the health and safety of workers at hazardous wastesites should obtain and comply with the most recent fed­eral. state. and local regulations relevant to these sites.and are urged to consult with OSHA. EPA. and otherappropriate federal. state. and local agencies.

This manual will be updated regularly. Please oend c0m­ments and suggested revisions to any of these fourorganizations:

NIOSHHazardous Waste Program IC-1714676 Columbia ParkwayCincinnati, OH 45226

OSHADirectorate of Technical Support200 Constitution Avenue. NWWashington, DC 20210

USCGEnvironmental Response Division IG-wER-2l2100 Second Street, SWWashington. DC 20593

EPAOccupational Health and Safety Staff IPM-273l401 M Street. SWWashington. DC 20460

A separate manual that specifically addresses response tohazardous substances emergencies will be published at alater date. In the meantime. much of the information inthis manual can be used in planning for response to _­gencies involving hazardous substances.

2. Hazards

General categories of hazards that may be present at asite are described in this chapter. In approaching a site, itis prudent to assume that all these hazards are presentuntil site characterization has shown otherwise. A siteheelth and safety program. as described in the subse­quent chapters of this manual. must provide comprehen­sive protection agsinst all potential hazards and specificprotection against individual known hazards. It should becontinuously adapted to new information and changingsite conditions.

The combination of all these condItions results in a work­ing environment that is characterized by numerous andvaried hazards which:

• May pose an immediate danger to life or health.

• May not be immediately obvious or identifiable.

• May vary according to the location on site and thetask being performed.

• May change as site activities progress.

2-1

2-2

2-2

2-2

2-3

2-3

2-3

Introduction 2-1

Chemical Exposure

Explosion and Fire

Oxygen Deficiency

Ionizing Radiation

Biologic Hazards

Safety Hazards

Electrical Hazards

Heat Stress 2-3

Cold Exposure 2-3

Noise 2-3

Contents

IntroductionHazardous waste sites pose a multitude of health andsafety concerns. any one of which could result in seriousinjury or death- These hazards are a function of thenature of the site as wen as a consequence of the workbeing performed. They include:

• Chemical exposure.

• Fire and explosion.

• Oxygen deficiency.

• Ionizing radiation.

• Biologic hazards.

• Safety hazards.

• Electrical hazards.

• Heat stress.

• Cold exposure.

• Noise.

Several factors distinguish the hazardous waste siteenvironment from other occupational situations involvinghazardous substances. One important factor is the uncon­trolled condition of the site. Even extremely hazardoussubstances do not endanger human health or safety ifthey are properly handled. However. improper control ofthese substances can result in a severe threat to siteworkers and to the general public.

Another factor is the large variety and number of sub­stances that may be present at a site. Arty individuallocation may contain hundreds or even thousands ofchemicals. Frequently. an accurate assessment of allchemical hazards is impossible due to the large number ofsubstances and the potential interactions among the sub­stances. In addition. the identity of the substances on siteis frequently unknown. particularly in the initial stages ofan investigation. The Project Team LBader (see Chapter 3.Planning lind Organization) will often be forced to selectprotective measures based on little or no information.Finally. workers are subject not only to the hazards ofdirect exposur'l, but also to dangers posad by the disor­derly physical environment of hazardous waste sites andthe stress of working in protective clothing_

Chemical ExposurePreventing exposure to toxic chemicals is 8 primary con·cern at hazardous waste sites. Most sites contain a vari­ety of chemical substances in gaseous. liquid. or solidform. These substances can enter the unprotected bodyby inhalation. skin absorption. ingestion. or through apuncture wound linjection). A contaminant can causedamage at the point of contact or can act systemically.causing a toxic effect at a part of the body distant fromthe point of initial contact.

Chemical exposures are generally divided into two cate­gories: acute and chronic. Symptoms resulting from acuteexposures usually occur during or shonly after exposureto a sufficiently high concentratiOfl of 8 contaminant. Theconcentration required to produce such effects varieswidely from chemical to chemical. The term "chronicexposure" generally refers to exposures to "low" concen­trations of a contaminant over a long period of time. The"low" concentrations required to produce symptoms ofchronic exposure depend upon the chemical. the durationof each exposure. and the number of exposures. For 8given contaminant. the symptoms of an acute exposuremay be completely different from those resutting fromchronic exposure.

For either chronic or acute exposure. the toxic effect maybe tempOrary and reversible. or may be permanent Idisa­bility or death). Some chemicals may cause obvioussymptoms such as burning. coughing, nausea. tearingeyes, or rashes. Other chemicals may cause health dam·age without any such warning signs Ithis is a particularconcern for chronic exposures to low concentrations).Health effects such as cancer or respiratory disease maynot become manifest for several years or decades afterexposure. In addition. some toxic chemicals may be color­less and/or odorless, may dull the sense of smell. or maynot produce any immediate or obvious physiological sen·sations. Thus. a worker's senses or feelings cannot berelied upOn in all cases to warn of potential tollticexposure.

The effects of exposure not only depend on the chemical,its concentration. route of entry. and duration of expo·

2-2 Hazards

SUnl. but may also be influenced by personal factors suchas the individual's smoking habits. alcohol consumption.medication use. nutrition. age, and sex (see Chapter 5.Medical Progf8m).

An important exposure route of concem at a hazardouswasta site is inhalation. The lungs are extremely vulner­able to chemical agents. Even substances that do notdirectly affect the lungs may pass through lung tissueinto the bloodstream, where they are transported to othervulnerable areas of the body. Some toxic chemicals pres­ent in the atmosphere may not be detected by humansenses. i.e., they may be colorless, odorless, and theirtoxic affects may not produce arrv immediate symptoms.Respiratory protection is therefore extremely important ifthere is a possibility that the _-site atmosphere maycontain such hazardous substances. Chemicals can alsoentar the respiratory tract through punctured aardrums.Where this is a hazard. individuals with puncturedaardrums should be medically avaluated specifICally todatermine if such a condition would place them at unac­ceptable risk and precluda their working at the task inquestion.

Direct contact of the skin and eves by hazardous sub­stances is another important route of exposure. Somechemicals directly injure the skin. Some pass through theskin into the bloodstream where they are transported tovulnerable organs. Skin absorption is enhanced by abra­sions. cuts, heat. and moisture. The eye is particularly vul­nerable because airborne chemicals can dissolve in itsmoist surface and be carried to the rest of the bodythrough the bloodstream (capillaries are very close to thesurface of the eye). Wearing protective equipment. notusing contact kmses in contaminated atmospheres (sincethey may trap chemicals against the eye surface). keepinghands away from the face, and minimizing contact withliquid and solid chemicals can help protect against skinand eye contact.

Although ingestion should be the least significant route ofexposure at a site, it is important to be aware of how thistype of exposure can occur. Deliberate ingestion of chem­icals is unlikely. however, personal habits such as chewinggum or tobacCO, drinking. eating. smoking cigarettes. andapplying cosmetics on site may provide a route of entryfor chemicals.

The last primary route of chemical exposure is injection.whereby chemicals are introduced into the body throughpuncture wounds (for example, by stepping or trippingand falling onto contaminated sharp objects). Wearingsafety shoes. avoiding physical hazards. and taking c0m­

mon sense precautions are imponant protective measuresagainst injection.

Explosion and FireThere are many potential causes of explosions and firesat hazardous waste sites:

• Chemical reactions that produce explosion. fire. orheat.

• Ignition of explosive or flammable chemicals.

• Ignition of materials due to oxygen enrichment.

• Agitation of shock- or friction-sensitive compounds.

• Sudden release of materials under pressure.

Explosions and fires may arise spontaneously. However,more commonly, they result from site ectivities. such asmoving drums, accidentally mixing incompatible chemi­cals. or introducing an ignition SOUrce (such as a sparkfrom equipment) into an explosive or flammable environ­ment. At hazardous waste sites. explosions and fires notonly pose the obvious hazards of intense heat. openflame, smoke inhalation, and flying objects. but may 8Isocause the release of toxic chemicals into the environ­ment. Such releases can threaten both personnel on siteand members of the general public living or workingnearby. To protect against the hazard: have quarlfied per­sonnel field monitor for explosive atmospheres and flam­mable vapors; keep all potential ignition sources awayfrom an explosive or flammable environment; use non­sparking. explosion-proof equipment; and follow safePtBctices when performing any task that might result inthe agrtation or release of chemicals.

Oxygen DeficiencyThe oxygen content of normal air at sea level is approxi­mately 21 percent. Physiological effects of oxygen defi­ciency in humans are readily apparent when the oxygenconcentration in the air decreases to 16 percent. Theseeffects include impaired attention, judgment and coordi­nation. and increased breathing and haart rate. Oxygenconcentrations kJwer than 16 percent can resutt in nauseaand vomiting. brain damage, heart damage, unconscious­ness. and death. To take into account individual physi0­logical responses and errors in measurement. concentra­tions of 19.5 percent oxygen or lower are considered tobe indicative of oxygen def"tCiency.

Oxygen deficiency may result from the displacement ofoxygen by another gas. or the consumption of oxygen bya chemical reaction. Confined spaces or Iow-lying areasare particularly vulnerable to oxygen deficiency andshould always be monitored prior to entry. Ouarofied fieldpersonnel should always monitor oxygen levels andshould use atmosphere-supplying respiratory equipment(see Chapter 8, Plersonal Protective Equipmentl when oxy­gen concentrations drop below 19.5 percent by volume.

Ionizing RadiationRadioactive materials emit one or more of three types ofharmful radiation: alpha. beta. and gamma. Alpha radia­tion has limited penetration ability and is usually stoppedby clothing and the outer layers of the skin. Alpha radia­tion poses little threat outside the body. but can be haz­ardous if materials that emit alpha radiation are inhaled oringested. Beta radiation can cause harmful "beta burns"to the skin and damage the subsurface blood system.Beta radiation is also hazardous if materials that emit betaradiation are inhaled or ingested. Use of protective cloth­ing. coupled with scrupulous personal hygiene and dacon­tamination, affords good protection against alpha andbeta radiation.

Gamma radiation easily passes through clothing andhuman tissue and can also cause serious permanent dam­age to the body. Chemical-protective clothing affords noprotection against gamma radiation itself; however.. use ofrespiratory and other protective equipment can help keep

Illdiation.....itting materials from entering the body byinhalation, ingestion, injection. or skin absorption.

If Iewls of Illdiation above natural blIckground ara discov­ered Ieee Table 8-2 in Chapter 61, consult a health physi­cist. At Iewls graater tIw1 2 mremlhr. all site activitiesshould cease until the site has been asaessed by healthphysicists.

Biologic HllZard.Wastes from hospitals and research faCIlities may containcliseas<H:8USing organisms that could infect site person­nel. Lib chemical hazards. etiologic agents may be dis­persed in the envirorvnent vie water end wind. Otherbiologic hazards that may be present at e hazardous_ site include poisonous plents. insects. animals, andindigenous pathogens. P, Ole\.tNe clothing end respiratoryequipment can help reduce the chances of exposu....Thorough washing of any exposed body parts and equip­ment will help protect ageinst infection.

Safety HllZard.Hazardous _ sites may contain numerous safetyhazards euch as:

o Holes or cfrtehes.

o Precarious/y positioned objects. euch as drums orboards that may fall.

o Sharp objects, such as nens, metal shards. andbI'okengl....

o Slippery surfaces.

o Steep grades.

o u-n terrain.

o Unstable surfecas, euch as wells that may cave in orflooring that may giYe wrry.

Some safety hazards ara a function of the wort< itself. Forexample, heavy equipment creates en additional hazardfor worI<enI in the vicinity of the operating equipment.P,oteetive equipment can impair a worker's agnity. hear­ing. end vision. which can result in en increased risk of aneccident.

Accidenta inwIving physical hazards can diract1y injureworI<enI end can create additional hazards. for example,increased chemical exposura due to damaged protectiveequipment. or danger of explosion caused by the mixingof chemicals. Site parsonnel should constantly look outfor potential safety hazards, end should immediatelyinform their eupervisonI of any new hazards so thatmitiaetiYe action can be taken.

EleetrlC81 HaurdsOvemeed power Rnes. downed electrical wiras, andburied cablas all pose a danger of shock or electrocutionif worI<enI c:ont8ct or sever them during site operations.Electric:el equipment used on site may also pose a hazardto workera. To help minimize this hazard, Iow-wltegeequipment with ground-fault interrupters and water-tight.

Hazards 2-3

conosion~sistant connecting cables should be used onsite. In addition, lightning is a hazard during outdoor oper­ations. particularly for workers handling metal containersor equipment. To eliminate this hazard, weather condi­tions should be monitored and wort< should be suspendedduring electrical stonns. An additional alectrical hazardinwlves capacitors that may retain a charge. All suchitems should be property grounded before handling.OSHA's standard 29 CFR Part 1910.137 describes cloth­ing end equipment for protection against electricalhazards.

HeatStres.Heat stress is a major hazard, especially for workerswearing protective clothing. The same protectivematerials that shield the body from chemical exposurealso limit the dissipation of body haat and moistu.... Par­sonal protective clothing can therefore create a hazardouscondition. Depending on the ambient conditions and thework being performed. heat stress can occur very rapidly-within as little es 15 minutes. It can pose es great adanger to worker health as chemical exposu.... In its eartystages. heat stress can cause rashes. cramps, discomfortand drowsiness. resulting in impaired functional abilitythat threatens the safety of both the individual andcoworkers. Continued heat stress can lead to heat strokeend daath. Avoiding overprotection. careful training andfrequent monitoring of personnel who wear protectiveclothing. judicious scheduling of work and rest periods,and frequent replacement of fluids can protect againstthis hazard. For further information on heat stress. seeChapter 8. Personal Proractive Equipment.

Cold ExposureCold injury (frostbite and hypothermia) and impaired abil­ity to work are dangers at low temperatures and whenthe wind-chill factor is low. To guard against them: wearappropriate clothing; have warm shelter readily available;carefully schedule work end rest periods. and monitorworkers' physical conditions.

NoiseWork around large equipment often creates excessivenoise. The effects of noise can include:

• Workers being startled. annoyed. or distracted.

• Physical damage to the ear. pain. and temporary andlor permanent hearing loss.

• Communication interference that may increasepotential hazards due to the inability to warn of dan­ger and the proper safety precautions to be taken.

If employees are subjected to noise exceeding an 8-hour.time-weighted average sound level of 90 dBA (decibels onthe A-weighted scale), feasible administrative or engineeringcontrols must be utilized. In addition. whenever employeenoise exposures equal or exceed an 8-hour. time~weightedaverage sound level of 85 dBA. employers must adminis­ter a continuing, effective hearing conservation programas described in OSHA regulation 29 CFR Part 1910.95.

3. Planning and Organization

3-1

Contents

Introduction 3-1

Organizational Structure

Work Plan 3-3

Site Safety Plan 3-5

Safety Meetings and Inspections 3-6

References 3-7

IntroductionAdequate planning is the first and the most critical ele­ment of hazardous waste site activities. By anticipatingand taking steps to prevent potential hazards to healthand safety, work at a waste site can proceed with mini­mum risk to workers and the public.

Three aspects of planning are discussed in this chapter:developing an """rail organizational structure for siteoperations; establishing a comprehensive Work Plan thatconsiders each specific phase of the operation; anddeveloping and implementing a Site Safety and HealthPlan (hereinafter referred to as Site Safety Plan in accor­dance with common usage). The organizational structureshould identify the personnel needed for the """rail oper­ation, establish the chain-of-<:ommand, and specify the"""rail responsibilities of each employee. The Work Planshould establish the objectives of site operations and thelogistics and resources required to achieve the goals. TheSite Safety Plan should determine the health and safetyconcems for each phase of the operation and define therequirements and procedures for worker and public pro­tection.

A fourth important aspect of planning is coordinatingwith the existing response community. A nationalresponse organization was established by a Congression­ally mandated National Contingency Plsn to implementprocedures for coordinating response to releases of haz­ardous substances into the environment. This NationalContingency Plan establishes response teams composedof representatives of federal agencies and state and localg"""mments 111. A particularly important contact for haz­ardous waste site activities is the EPA-designsted officialresponsible for coordinating federal activities related tosite cleanup.

Planning should be viewed as an ongoing process: thecleanup activities and Site Safety Plan must be continu­ously adapted to new site conditions and new infonna­tion. Thus, this chapter is intended to serve as a startingpoint for planning the response activities at hazardouswaste sites.

Organizational StructureAn organizational structure that supports the """railobjectives of the project should be developed in the firststage of planning. This structure should:

• Identify a leader who has the authority to direct allactivities.

• Identify the other personnel needed for the project,and assign their general functions and responsi­bilities.

• Show lines of authority, responsibility, and communi­cation.

• Identify the interface with the response community.

As the project progresses, it may be necessary to modifysome organizational aspects of the project, such as per­sonnel responsibilities and authorities, so that individualtasks can be perfonned as efficiently and safely as pos­sible. Any changes to the """rail organizational atructuremust be recorded in the appropriate parts of the Work orSite Safety Plans that are developed for individual phasesor tasks and must be communicated to all partiesinvolved.

Figure 3-1 presents one example of an organizationalframework for a hazardous waste site response team. Itshows the lines of authority for 24 categories of offsiteand onsite personnel. The responsibilities and functionsof each category are described in Tables 3-1 through 3-4.The onsite categories are divided into personnel that areessential for a safe and efficient response, and optionalpersonnel that may be desirable in a large operationwhere responsibilities can be detegated to a greater num­ber of people. As-needed personnel are specialists thatare called upon for specific tasks, either off-site or on site.

This example is intended to illustrate the scope of respon·sibilities and functions that must be covered. The person­nel categories described can be used as a starting pointfor designing an organizational structure appropriate to aparticular situation. For smaller investigative and responseefforts. single individuals may perform several of thefunctions described.

Regardless of the size of the effort, all response teamsshould include a Site Safety and Health Officer (here­inafter referred to as Site Safety Officer in accordancewith cornmon usage) responsible for implementing healthand safety requirements. The Site Safety Officer shouldhave ready access to other occupational health andsafety professionals, particularly an industrial hygienist.Once an organizational system has been developed, allindividuals responsible for establishing and enforcinghealth and safety requirements should be identified andtheir respective authorities clearly explained to all mem­bers of the response team.

One of the most critical elements in worker safety is theattitude of all levels of project management. A strong andvisible commitment to worker safety must be presentfrom the beginning of a project. This initial attitude setsthe tone for the entire operation. The Site Safety Officerand the Project leam lJ!ader must have the clear supportof senior-level management for establishing, implement­ing, and enforcing safety programs from the outset of theproject. The importance of management's attitude towardsafety throughout the project cannot be """remphasized;site personnel are more likely to cooperate with safetyprograms if they sense a genuine concem on the part ofmanagement.

Several organizational factors are indicators of successfulworker safety programs. These factors include:

3-2 Planning and Organization

Govemment Agency OFFSITEOversight

I

Lead OrganizationSenior-lBve1

Multidisciplinary Management Medical SupponAdvisors

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -I Project ONSITE

Team Leader

r I

..... r I I I~

!Z •w Field Team Command Post Decontamination Site Safety and<II Rescue Team<II Leader Supervisor Station Officers Health Officerw

IWork Party

..... • Scientific • Financial • Security • Record-«z Advisor Officer Officer keeperat • Logistics • Photographer • Public Informationa Officer Officer

- - - - - - - - - - -- - - - I-- - - -OFFSITEANDONSITE • Bomb Squad Experts • Firefighters • Meteorologists

AS NEEDED• Communication • Hazardous • Public Safety

PIlrsonnel Chemical Officer

• EnvironmentalExpens

• ToxicologistsScientists • Health Physicists

• EvacuationPIlrsonnel • Industrial

Hygienists

Rgure 3-1. Generalized Approach to Personnel Organization for Site Investigation and Response.

• Strong management commitment to safety. asdefined by various actions reflecting management'ssupport and involvement in safety activities.

• Close contact and interaction among worl<ers, super­visors. and management enabling open communica­tion on safety as well as other job-related matters.

• A high level of housekeeping, orderly wor1<place c0n­

ditions. and effective environmental quality control.

• Well-<leveloped selection. job placement, andadvancement procedures plus other employee sup­port services.

• Training practices emphasizing early indoctrinationand followup instruction in job safety procedures.

• Added features or variations in conventional safetypractices that enhance the effectiveness of thosepractices.

• Effective disciplinary plan to encourage employees toadhere to safety practices.

Overall, the most effective industrial safety programs aresuccessful in dealing with "people" variables. Open com­munication among workers, supervisors. and manage­ment concerning worksite safety is essential.

The effective management of response actions at hazard­ous waste sites requires a commitment to the health andsafety of the general public as well as to the onsite per­sonnel. Prevention and containment of contaminantrelease into the surrounding community should beaddressed in the planning stages of a project. Not onlymust the public be protected, they must also be madeaware of the health and safety program and have confi­dence in it. To accomplish these goals. the Project Team

lllble 3-1. Offsite Personnel

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Planning and Organization 3-3

Leader. or Public Information Officer under the IUpervi­aion of the Project Team Leader. should establish commu­nity liaison well before any response action is begun. andshould be in continuous contact with community leaders.

Work PlanTo ensure a safe response. a Work Plan describing antici­pated cleanup activities must be developed before begin­ning onsite response actions. The Work Plan should beperiodically reexamined and updated as new informationabout site conditions is obtained.

The following steps should be taken in formulating. c0m­prehensive Worl< Plan:

• Review available information. including:

Site records.Waste inventories.Generator and transporter manifests.Previous sampling and monitoring data.Site photos.State and local environmental and health agencyrecords.

• Define work objectives.

• Determine methods for accomplishing the objecmles,e.g.• sampling plan. inventory, disposal techniques.

• Determine personnel requirements.

• Determine the need for additional training of person­nel. Evaluate their current knowledge/skililevelagainst the tasks they will perform and situationsthey may encounter (see Chepter 4, Training).

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBIUTIES

Mutti­DIscIpfineryAdvioo<o

MedicalSupport

Responsible lor defining project objectives,allocating resources. determining the chain­of-command, and evaluating programoute<>rn<l

Includes representatives from upper4eve1management and onsite management" a fieldteam member. and experts in such fietds as:

Chemistry LawEngineering MedicineIndustrial hygiene PharmacologyInformation/public; Physiology

relations Radiation heatthphysics

lOxicoIogy

Consulting physicians.

Medical personnel at local hospitals andclinics.

Ambulance personnel.

• Provide the necessary facilities. equipment, ond money.• PrcMde adequate personnel and time resoun::es to conduct

llCtivities safely.• Support the efforts of onsite management.• Provide appropriate disciplinary action when unsafe acts or

practices occur.

• Provide advice on the _ign of the Work Plan ond the Site SafetyPlan.

• Become familiar with the types of materials on site. the potentialfor worker exposures. and recommend the medical program for thesite.

• Provide emergency treatment and decontamination procedures forthe specific type of exposures that may occur at the site. Obtainspecial drugs. equipment. or supplies necessary to treat suchexposures.

• Provide emergency treatment procedures appropriate to thehazards on site.

3-4 Planning and Organization

1llbIe 3-2. Onsite Essential Personnel

TITLE

Site SlrIety _

_0fIIcer

-~_10 asSite SafetyOffice< inllCCOIdance withCOii_llOn usage)

Decoo.ta......lion StationOfIIc:erIsl

Rescue Taam

GENERAL DESCRIPTIONRepo<tslO__management. Has

arthority 10 direct respoose~Assumes total control owr site K1ivities.

Advises the Project 1ilam IBader on 011aspects of health _ safety on site. Rec-OIl i • i tel KIs stopping work if al'f operationthreatens wort<er or pubfoc health or safety.

May be the same person as the Project 1ilamIJ!ader end may be • member of the _party. Responsible lor field team -.monsand safety.

May be the same person as the ReId 1ilam1J!ader. Responsible lor c:ommunications and__assislan<:e.

Responsible fa< decontamination pr0ce­

dures. equipment. .-ld supplies.

Used primarily on large sites with multiplewort parties in the contaminated area.

Depending on the size of the field ...... anyor all of the field team may be in the _P8rty. but tho _ Party should consist ofot least two people.

SPECIfIC RESPONSlBlUTIES

o Prep8res _ organizes the bockground __ of the oituation.the _ Plan. the Site SlrIety Plan. _the field ......

• Obtains permission for site eccess .-.d coordinates ectivitieswith~ officials.

o Ensures that the _ Plan io completed _ on _

• Briefs the field tINWnS on their apecific essigJ" ••tLo Uses the Site Safety _ Health 0fIIcer lD __ that safety

..cr health requileoiMW1ts ... met.o Prep8res the _ -'_1Upport files on the _1M-o _ as tho liaison with pubfoc officials.

o Selects__dothing _ equipment.o _cally inspects __ dothing _ equipment.o Ensures that__dothing _ equi__properly__maintained.

o Controls entry _ exit ot the Access Control _o CoonfIfl8blS safety _ health program 0CIivities with the

Scientific Advisor.o Confirms each team momber's _Trty lor _ based on s

physician". recom. tel KIation.o Moo.'to<s tho _ parties lor signs '" ....... such .. cold__ heat ....... _ fatigue.

o MonitonI onsite hazards _ c:oncrrtions.o Participates in the ..-ation of _ irnplem...1S the Site SlrIety

Plan.o Conducta~oc i..specoo"s lD cle'em li... If tho Site SlrIety

Plan io being~o Enforces the ''buddy'' system.o ICMws__procedures, the

leIephone no.mbers of the~ local hospital. poisoncontrol center. fire department. _ poroce cIepartment.

• Notifies. when necessary. local pubf"te __get ICy officials.• Coordinates .....getM:y medical ca-a.

• Manages field op8I8tiof IS.o _the _ Plan end_Ie.o Enforces safety procedures.o CoonI_ with the Site SlrIety Office< in del.",li"ing

PIoteetion level.• Enforces site control.• Oocunents field ectNities -.cI sample coIIec:tion.o _ as • liaison with public officials.

• Notifies emeI'gellCy response personnel by 1eJephoIMt or gd"tO inthe event of M1 emeI gel ICY-

o Assists the Site Safety Office< in • 0lSCUIl. if .-..y.• Maintains 8 log of communication ald site ectiYities.• Assists other field team membefs in the dean -.s. • needed.• Maintains line-of-sight end communication contact with the

_ parties via waIIUe-taIkies. signal horns, or _ means.

• Sets up decOIlt&itilltation lines end the decoolla'Waationsolutions appropriate fa< the type of c:hemicaI contamination onsite.

o Controls the _ Ira I oil oation of .. equipment. personnel. andsamples !Tom the contaminated ......

o Assists in the disposal of _ dothing _ materials.

o Ensures that all JeqUired equipment io _labIe.o Advises mecrocal personnel of potential axposuras and

c:onsaquences.

o Stands by. partially dressed in PiOleCti.. gear..... hazardous_araas.o Rescues any wort<er whose health or safety io andangered.

o Safely COl lipletes the onsite _ks required lD !ullin the _Plan.

o Complies with Site Safety Plan.o Notifies Site SlrIety Office< or """"' visot of unsafe c:ond1tions.

Table 3-3. Onsite Optionel Pef$Ol1nel

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Planning and Organization 3-5

SPEOFlC RESPONSIBIlITIES

S c1m ,tlfic Advisor Guides the Project learn~ inscientific matters.

• Provides _ lor.Field monitoringSample coIle<:tionSample onalysis

Scientific otudieoData illtetptetationRemedial plans

• Determine equipment requirements. Evaluate theneed for special equipment or_. such as dnll­ing equipment or heavy equipment end operators.

Preparation of the Wor1< Plan requires a multidisciplinaryapproach. and may therefore require input born an levelsof onsite and offsite management. Consultants may alsobe useful in developing sections of the Wor1< Plan; forexample. chemists. occupational health end safety profes­sionals. and statisticians may be needed to develop thesampling plan.

Site Safety PlanA Site Safety Plan. which establishes policies and proce­dures to protect workers and the public born the potentialhazards posed by a hazardous waste site. must be devel·oped before site activities proceed. The Site Safety Planmust provide measures to minimize accidents and injuriesthat may occur during normal daily activities or duringadverse conditions such as hot or cold weather. This see­tion describes the planning process for health and safetyduring normal site operations. i.e.. non~rgeI K;)' situa­tions. Chapter 12 describes planning and response to siteemergencies.

Oevelopment of a written Site Safety Plan helps ensurethat all safety aspects of site operations are thoroughlyexamined prior to commencing f",ld work. The SiteSafety Plan should be modified as needed for every stageof site activity.

Because planning requires information. planning and sitecharacterization should be coordinated. An initial SiteSafety Plan should be developed SO that the preliminarysite assessment can proceed in 8 safe manner. The infor­mation born this assessment can then be used to refinethe Site Safety Plan SO that further site activities can pr0­ceed safely. Plans should be revised whenever new infor­mation about site hazards is obtained.

Oevelopment of a Site Safety Plan should involve both theoffsite and onsite management and be reviewed byoccupational and industrial health and safety experts.physicians. chemists. or other appropriate personnel.

• Plans 8nd motMlizes the facilities. materials. .-leipe<sonneI required 10< the response.

• Photogia...."lS site conditions.

• - photographs.• Provides ficwlciaI.-ld COIib8Ctual support.

• Reteases infonna'tion to the news media .-xi the publicCAN iiC8fi .nlg site lICtivities.

• Manages site security.

• Maintains the official records of site ectivities.

At a minimum. the plan should:

• Name I<ey personnel and alternates responsible forsite safety !see Tables 3-1 through 3-4).

• Describe the risks associated with each operationconducted !see ChaPter 6. Sits ChsraeteriZJltion).

• Confirm that personnel are adequately trained toperform their job responsibilities and to handle thespecifIC hazardous situations they may encounterlsee Chapter 4, Training).

• Describe the protective clothing and equipment tobe worn by personnel during various site opera­tions (see Chapter 8. Personal ProtectiveEquipment).

• Describe any site-speciflC medical surveillancerequirements !see ChaPter 5. Medical ProgramJ.

• Describe the program for periodic air monitoring.personnel monitoring. and environmental sam­pling. if needed lsee Chapter 6, Sits Chsractariztf­lion. and Chapter 11. Handling Drums _ 0th6rContainersl.

• Describe the actions to be taken to mitigate exist­ing hazards lag.• containment of contaminatedmaterialsl to make the work environment less haz­ardous.

• Define sita control measures and include a sitemap !see Chapter 9. Sits Control).

• Establish decontamination procedures for pef$Ol1neland equipment lsee Chapter 10. Decontamination).

• Sat forth the site's Standard Operating Procedures!SOPsJ. SOPS are those activities that can be stan­dardized (such as decontamination end respirator fittasting), and where a checklist can be used. Theseprocedures should be:

Prepared in advance.Based on the best available information, opera­tionsl principles. and technical guidance.Fl8ld-tested by qualified health and safety profes·sionals, and revised as appropriate.Appropriate to the types of riak at that site.Formulated to be easy to understand and practice.

3-6 Planning and Organization

1iIbIe 3-4. As-Needed Personnel

GENERAl DESCRIPTION

80mb Squad E_pft 110ftExpono

Comrnunlcdon .._.... CivIl Defense "'llanizations; local radioand television lIlations.l.DcaI emerget K:Y service networks._01.........._ Consultants from industry, g<MOrT1fl'M!nt.

ooiversities. or other groups..

Ewcuo1Ion .._.... Federal, state. and local pubfoc safetyorganizations.

SPECIAC RESPONSIBIUTIES

• Advise on methods of handling explosive materials.• Assist in safery detonating or disposing of explosive

materials.

• Provide communication to the public in the 8Yeflt of anemergency.

• Provide communication links for mutual aid.

• Predict the movement of released hazardous materialsthrough the atmospheric. geologic. and hydrologicenvironment.

• Assess the effect of this movement on air, groundwater,and surface water quality.

• Predict the exposure of people and the ecosystem to thematerials.

• Help plan for public evacuation.• Mobilize transit equipment.• Assist in public evacuation.

• Respond to fires that OCC\Jr on site.• Stand by for response to potential fires..• Perform rescue.

Consultants from industry, gowmment.universities. or other groups.

• Advise on the properties of the materials on site.• Advise on contaminant control methods.• Advise on the dangers of chemical mixtures that may

resurt from site activities.• Provide immediate actv;ce to those at the scene of a

chemical-related emergency.

HMfth Ph,sidsb

Industrial II,ykhlists

The County Sheriff, industrial securityforces, National Gua«l. police, etc.

Provided in writing to all site personnel, whoshould be briefed on their use.Included in training programs for site personnel.

• set fonh a Contingency Plan for safe and effectiveresponse to emergencies.

Appendix B provides a generic Site Safety Plan that canbe adapted for hazardous waste site cleanup operations.The generic plan should be used as a guide, not a stan­dard, for designing a Site Safety Plan.

Safety Meetings and Inspections10 ensure that tha Site Safety Plan is being followed, theSite safety Offocer should conduct a safety meeting priorto initiating any site activity and before lind after eechwork day. The purpose of these safety meetings is to:

• Describe the assigned tasks and their potentialhazards.

• Evaluate radiation health hazards and reaM I orne. K:Iappropriate action.

• Conduct hearth hazard assessments.• Advise on adequate health protection.• Conduct monitoring tests to determine worker exposures

to hazardous substances.

• Provide meteorological in1ormatton.

• Controi access to the site.

• Advise on toxicological properties and heatth effects ofsubstances on site.

• Provide recommendations on protection of worbr heatth.

• Coordinate activities.

• Identify methods and precautions to prevent injuries.

• Plan for emergencies.

• Describe any changes in the Site Safety Plan.

• Get worker feedback on conditions affecting safetyand health.

• Get worker feedback on how well the Site SafetyPlan is working.

The Site safety Officer should also conduct frequentinspections of site conditions. facilities. equipment. andactivities to determine whether the Site Safety Plsn isadequate and being fonowed.

At a hazardous waste site,. risks to workers can changequickly and dramatically when there are changes in:

• Work and other site activities.

• State of degradat10n of containers snd containmentstructures.

• State of equipment maintenenee.

• Weather concfrtions.

In order to make aafety inspections effective. the follow­ing guidelines should be obseMld:

• Develop a checklist for aach site. listing the Itemsthat should be inspected.

• Review the results of these inspections with supervi­aonI and workenL

• Reinspect env identified problems to ensure that theyhaw been COlTllCted.

• Documant an inspections and subsequent foIlowupactions. Retain these I1lCOfds unbl IIita ae:tivitias ...completed and as as long as required by regulatoryagencies.

The minimum ftaquency at which inspections shouldoccur varies with the characteristics of the IIita and theequipment used on site. Factors that need to be consid­Brad ara:

• The I8II8rity of risk on site.

• Regulatory requirements.

• Operation end maintenance requiremet Its.

• The -.:ted affactiva lifetime of dothing, equip­ment.~, and other items.

• Recommendations basad on professional judgment.laboratory test results. and field experience.

References1. National 011 and Hazardous Substances Pollution C0n­

tingency Plan, 40 CFR Part 300.

Planning and Organization 3-7

4. Training

Training ProgramsEmployees should not engage in field activities until theyhave been trained to a level commensurate with their jobfunction and responsibilities and with the degree of antic­ipated hazards. Specific recommendations for the areasto be covered in training sessions are given in Table 4-1.

The level of training provided should be consistent withthe worker"s job function and responsibilities. The trainingprogram should involve both elassroom instruction in awide range of health and safety topics and "hands-on"practice. Hands-on instruction should consist of drills inthe field that simulate site activities and conditions. Anytraining program for work. around hazardous substancesshould also incorporate onsite experience under the directsupervision of trained, experienced personnel.

All training information should be presented in clear. con­cise language. Particularly imponant information, such asthe Standard Operating Procedures, should be provided inwriting. A variety of teaching aids (i.e., films. tapes, slides,etc.) should be used, and lecture sessions should be inter­spersed with class participation and hands-on training. Allemployees should also complete refresher training, atleast annually, to reemphasize the initial training and toupdate workers on any new policies or procedures.

The training program should involve field drifls that simu­late emergency situations. Here workers wearing Level Apersonal protective equipment repair a leaking pipe aspart of a training exercise.

General site workers, such as equipment operators,general laborers. technicians, and other supervised per­sonnel. should attend training sessions that apply to theirindividual jobs and responsibilities, as well as training ses­sions that provide an overview of the site hazards and themeans of controlling those hazards. Their training shouldinclude classroom instruction in the following subjectareas, depending on their individual jobs:

• Site Safety Plan.

• Safe work. practices.

• Nature of anticipated hazards.

• Handling emergencies and self-rescue.

• Rules and regulations for vehicle use.

• Safe use of field equipment.

• Handling, storage. and transportation of hazardousmaterials.

• Employee rights and responsibilities.

• Use. care, and limitations of personal protective cloth­ing and equipment (see lkIining section of Chapter 81.

• Safe sampling techniques.

~'_.,. '.

4-1

4-3

Contents

Introduction

Introduction 4-1

Training Programs

Record of Training

Anyone who enters a hazardous waste site must recog­nize and understand the potential hazards to health andsafety associated with the cleanup of that site. Personnelactively involved in cleanup must be thoroughly familiarwith programs and procedures contained in the SiteSafety Plan (see Chapter 3. Planning and Organization)and must be trained to work safely in contaminated areas.Visitors to a site must receive adequate training on hazardrecognition and on the site's Standard Operating Pr0ce­dures to enable them to conduct their visit safely.

The objectives of training programs for employeesinvolved in hazardous waste site activities are:

• To make workers aware of the potential hazardsthey may encounter.

• To provide the knowledge and skills necessary toperform the work with minimal risk to workerhealth and safety.

• To make workers aware of the purpose and limita­tions of safety equipment.

• To ensure that workers can safely avoid or escapefrom emergencies.

4-2 Training

'r.bIe 4-1. Recommended Training by .bb Category"

ONSITE HEAInfGENERAl MANAGE- ANDSITE MENTAND SAFETY

TRAINING TOPIC EMPHASIS OF TRAINING WORKER SUPERVISORS STAFF VJSmlRS

BIology. Cheo,_,. _ Chomic8I one! phroicaI~; chemK:aI R R R

PhroIco"'--

reactions; chemieaI c:ompatibiTIties.-....kDiolih' Dosage. --'" 8lqlOMJ" --= -... R R Rimmediately dangerous to Ife 0< _ "DUllVIII.-, pormissible _1miD lPEUl. rec0m-

mended _1rni1s (REul._1imit_IT\.VsI.

-1frIJIene Selection one! rnonilDring '" ....- poolBCtiw R Rclothing one! equipment.

QIIcuIation 01 doles one! _ -.; evalua- R Rlion 01 hazards; selection 01__ one!

-tv poolBCtiw .............

1IIghto-~ AppI"ocabIe provisions 01 Title 2901 the Code 01 R R R'" Worbn~ OSHA -... Regulations lIhe OSH Actl.

MooJ'uilnll fquI- Functiuna. capabl1ities. oolectiun. ..... Iimi1atiuno. R R Rone!~-- Techniques of AMPIing.ncl MSB'lTi81It.. R REYlIIualion 01 field one! lab _Its. R RRisk ..-sment. a R

-......, ...... 5afe practices. ufety briefings one! IN8tings. R R R R5_Operating Procedures, sits ufety map.

StancWd Opa.tiI .. _-on pnIC1ic<> R R R1ft c. II ..... (SOPaJ Dewlopment 80d compraance. R R

EngII-">g ContruIo The use 01 barriers. _. one! distance to R R R.....mize hazards.

f'tor-..I ...u ....tIw Qulh- Assignment. sizing. liI-lBSting. moi..-- ...... R R R R1ng_~1PPE1 fimitations. one! honds-on tJaining.

Selection 01 PPE. a R&gunumics. R

-",-- Medicaf IllOItitoiiltg. first aid. stress recognition.. R R RAdvanced finlt lIid. carcflUPU1munerv__ a R R(CPR); _ driI1s.

Design. planning. one! irnpIemoi.laOOL R-- _-on IJaining using """'st8d field R R Rconditions.

Design one! msint8llallC& R R R

IagoI -1Ieg<Uturr Applicable ufety one! health "'lIuIstiuns (OSHA, a R R~ EPJII. etc.1

Ell. ifWI cdel EJiMttgelteV help"" setf-teSCU8: emegeoq R R Rdrills.

Response to omerg",lCies; fuIIow-up irMostigslion R Rone! ducumentation.

oR - Recoi,."..lded.a - OptionaL

In eddition to classroom instruction, general sits workersshould engaga in actual field aetivitias under the directsupervision of a trained, experiencad supervisor.

Some general site workers who may be exposed tounique hazards or who may occasionaDy supervise othersshould raceiw edditional training in the following subjectareas:

• Site surveillance.

• Sits Safety Plan daYelopment.

• Usa and decontamination of fully encapsulatingpersonal protective clothing and equipment.

• Usa of instruments to measure explosivity, radio­activity, etc.

• Safa usa of specialiled equipment.

• Topics specific to identified site activities.

Onsite msnagemerrt and supervisors, such as PIOjectTeam Leaders, who are responsible for directing others,should raceiw the same training as the general siteworkers for whom they are responsible, as _II as eddi­tional training to enhance their ability to pnlYide guidanceand make infonned decisions. This edditional trainingshould include:

• Management of hazardous waste site cleanupoperations.

• Management of the site work moes esse ChaPter9, Site Controll.

• How to communicate with the press and localcommunity.

Health and safety Ittaff with specific responsibtlities forhealth and safety guidance on site should be fammsr withthe training pnlYided to general site workers and theirsupervisors. and should raceiw advanced training inhealth and safety issuas, policies, and teehniques.

VisitDrs to the site fincluding elected and appointed offi­cials, reponers, senior-lewl management. and otherinterested partiesl must also receive a briefing on safety.These visitors should not be permitted in the ExclllSionZone Csee Chapter 9, Site ControII unless they haYs beentrained, fit-tasted, and medically appmved for respirator..... All _ visitors should not enter the ExclusionZone; rather, they should observe site conditions from theclean area, e.g., using binoculars.

Record of TrainingA record of training should be maintained in eachemployee's personnel file to confirm thet fNery personassigned to a task has had adequate training for thettask, and thet fNery employee'a training ia up-to-date.

Training 4-3

•

5. Medical Program

Contents

Introduction 5-1

Developing a Program 5-1

Pre-Employment Screening 5-5Determination of Fitness for DutyBaseline Data for Future ExposuresSample Pre-Employrnent Examination

Periodic Medical Examinations 5-7Periodic Screening 5-7Sample Periodic Medical Examination

Termination Examination 5-8

Emergency Treatment 5-8

Non-Emergency Treatment 5-9

Medical Records 5-9

Program Review 5-10

References 5-10

5-55-6

5-7

5-8

Developing e ProgremA medical program should be developed for each sitebased on the specific needs, location, end potentialexposures of employees at the site. The program shouldbe designed by an experienced occupational health physi­cian or other qualified occupational health consultant inconjunction with the Site Safety Officar. The director of asite medical program should be a physician who is board­certified in occupational medicine or a medical doctorwho has had extensive experience managing occupa­tional health services. A director end/or examining physi­cian with such quarlfications may be difficult to find, clueto the shortage of doctors treined in occupational medi­cine in remote geographic areas where many hazardousweste sites are located. If an occupational health physi­cian is not available, the site medical program may bemanaged, and relevant examinations performed, by alocal physician with assistance from an occupationalmedicine consultant. These functions may also be per­formed by a qualified Registered Nurse, preferably enOccupational Health Nurse, under the direction of a suit­ably qualifKld physician who has responsibility for theprogram.'

IntroductionWorkers handling hazardous wastes can experience highlevels of stress. Their daily tasks may expose them totoxic chemicals. safety hazards. biologic hazards, endradiation. They may develop heat stress while wearingprotective equipment or working under temperatureextremes. or face life-threatening emergencies such asexplosions and fires. Therefore. a medical program isessential to assess and monitor workers' health and fit·ness both prior to employment and during the course ofwork; to provide emergency and other treatment asneeded; and to keep accurate records for future reference.In addition. OSHA recommends a medical 8Y8luation foremployees required to wear a respirator 129 CFR Part1910.134[b][10n, and certain OSHA standards includespecific medical requirements le.g.. 29 CFR Part 1910.95and 29 CFR Parts 1910.1001 through 1910.1045). Informa­tion from a site medical program may also be used toconduct future epidemiological studies; to adjudicateclaims; to provide evidence in litigation; and to reportworkers' medical conditions to federal, state, and localagencies. as required by law.

This chapter presents general guidelines for designing amedical program for personnel at hazardous waste sites.It includes information and sample protocols for pre­employment screening and periodic medical examina­tions. guidelines for emergency end non_rgency treat­ment, and recommendations for program recordkeeplngand review. In addition. it supplies a table of some cam­mon chemical toxicants found at hazardous waste siteswith recommended medical monitoring procedures.

The recommendations in this chapter assume thatworkers will have adequate protection from exposuresthrough administrative end engineering controls. endeppropriate personal protective equipment and dec0n­tamination procedures, es described elsewhere in thismanual. Medical surveillance should be used to comple­ment other controls.

All medical test analyses should be performed by alaboratory that has demollshated satisfactory perfor­mance in en establishad interlaboratory testing program(1). The clinical or diagnostic laboratory to which samplesare sent should meet either (1) minimum requirementsunder the Oinical Laboratories Improvement Act of 1967(42 CFR Part 74 Subpart M Section 263[all, or 121 theconditions for coverage under Medicare. These programsare administerad by the Health Care Financing Adminis­tration (HCFA), U.s. Department of Health and HumanServices IDHHSI.

A site medical program should provide the followingcomponents;

• Surveil1ance:Pre-employment screening.Periodic medical examinations (and foI1owup exami­nations when appropriate).Termination examination.

• TreatmentEmergencyNon-ernergency Ion a cese-by-<:ese basis)

• Recordkeeping.

• Program review.

Table 5-1 outlines a recommended medical program;screening end examination jMotoeols are described in thefollowing sections. These recommendationa are basad onknown health risks for hazardous waste workers, a reviewof available data on their exposures, end en 8SS8SSrnentof several established medical programs. Because condi­tions and hazards vary considerably at each site, onlygeneral guidelines are given.

The effectiveness of a medical program depends onactive worker involvement. In addition, managementshould have a firm commitment to worker health and

1 Certified.~ (where required) Pbysici.....ssisr...tsmay also perlonn__nations If • physician is _lobleon the pnlIOises.

5-2 Medical Program

Table 5-1. Recommended Medical Program

COMPONENT

Pre-EmploynNH1t

_Medical--EmergellC'f'I..buent

'I..b •...,t

RECOMMENDED

• Medical histo<y.

• Occupational history.

• Physical examination.• Determination of fitness to work. we.-ing

protectjw equipment.

• Baseline monitoring for specific IlXpOSUr'8:S.

• 'll>arly update 01 medical _ occupationoI history;yearly physical examination; 1llSting based on(1) examination resutts. 121 exposures. _ (3) jobdoss_task.

• More frequent testing based on opecific__

• Provide emergency first aid on lite.• Develop liaison with local hoopitaI _ medical

specialists.

• Arrange for decontamination 01 victims.

• Arrange in advance for trw"""", 01 victims.• liansfor medical records; giw _,. 01-.

_ medical histo<y 10 next care provider.

• 0eYet0p mechanism for non-ernet!ger lC'f' heatthcare.

• Maintain.-.d provide eccess to med"1CaI records inacconlance with OSHA _ state J8gUIations.

• Report _ record occupational injuries _

illnesses.• _ Site Safety Plan regulerIy III delllmlille if

additional testing is needed.

• Rev;ew program periodically. Focus on o.wrent sitehazards. exposures. _ industrial hygienestandards.

OPTIONAL

• freezing pnHNr'IpIormer.t aerum 8peCi,. i for later-.ing _ III opecific IiluationI,_-..

Oem frN Future Expo$uTes in this choptarl.

• -.., _ng with __ medicaI_

safety. and is encouraged to express this commitment notonly by medical surveillance and trell1ment. but alsothrough mensgement directives and informal encourage­ment of employees to meintain good health through exer­cise. proper cfl8t. and 8\IOidance of tobacco. alcohol abuseand drug abuse. In particular. mensgement should;

• Urge prospective employees to provide a completeand detailed occupational and medical history.

• Assure employees of confidentiality.

• Require workers to report any suspected exposures,ragardless of degree.

• Require workers to bring any unusual physical or psy­chological concfrtions to the physician's~Employee training should emphasize that vague dis­turbances or apparently minor complaints (such asskin irritation or headaches) may be important.

When developing an individual progrsm. site conditionsmust be considered and the monitoring needs of eachworker should be determined based on the worker's med­ical and occupational history, as well as cunent andpotential exposures on site. The routine job tasks of eachworker should be considered. For instance, a heavy equip­ment operator exposed to significant noise levels wouldrequire a cflfferent monitoring protocol from a field samplecollector with minimal noise exposure. Likewise, anadministrator may only need a pre-employment screening

for abtTIty to wear personal protac1iw equiPment-if thisis an occasional requirement-rather than a man c0mpre­hensive program.

The potential exposures that may occur at a site mustalso be considered. WhIle it is often impossible to identifyewry toxic substance that exists at each hazatdouawaste site, certain types of hazatdoua substances orchemicals are man likely to be present than others. Someof these are;

• Aromatic hydrocarbons.

• Asbestos lor asbestiform perticIes).

• Dioxin.• Halogenated aliphatic hydrocarbons.

• Heavy metals.

• Herbicides.

• Organochlorine inaecticides.

• Organophoaphata and carbamete Inaecticides.

• FbIychIorinated biphenyla (PCBs).

Table 5-2 lists these groups, with representative c0m­pounds. uses. health lIffecta. and avansble med"1C81monitoring procedures.

Medical Program 5-3

Table 5-2. Convnon Chemicallilxicants Found at Hazardous Waste Sites. Their Health Effects and Medical Monitoring

HAZARDOUSSUBSTANCEOR CHEMICALGROUP COMPOUNDS USES TARGET ORGANS POTENTIAL HEAI:rH EFFECTS MEDICAL MONITORING

Aromatic Benzene Commercial Blood All cause: Occupational/general..,..ocarbo"a Elhyf benzene solvents and Bone marrow eNS· depression: decreased medical history

intermediates forCNS' alertness. headache. sleepi· emphasizing prior

lOluena synthesis in the ness. loss of consctousness. exposure to these orXylene chemical and Eyes

Defatting dermatitis.other toxic agents.

pharmaceutical Raspirstory Medical examinationindustries. systam Benzene suppreues bone- with focus on liver. kid-

SlUnmarrow fuoction. causing ney. nllfVOUS systam.b(ood changes. Otronic end skin.

Liver expOSure can cause leukemia.

Kidney Note: Because other aromaticLaborstory tasting:

hydrocarbons may be contami- CBC'>

osted wrth benzene during dis- Platelet counttil1stion. benzene-re18ted heatth Measurement of kidneyeffects should be consideredwhen exposure to any of these

and liver function.

agents is suspected.

Asbestos lor A variety of Lungs Chronic effects: History and physical~dforili industrial uses. Gastrointestinal lung cancer eMmination should....-, including: systam Mesothelioma

focus on the lungs and

Building gastrointestinal system.Asbestosis Laboratory tasts shouldConstructionGastrointestinal malignancies include a stool test lor

ComentworkAsbestos exposure coupled oc::cult ~ood evaluation

Insulation wrth cigarette smoking has 8$ a check for possible

Fireproofing been shown to have a hidden gastrointestinel

Pipes and synergistic effect in the mafignancy.

duets for development of kJng cancer. A high quality chest

water. air, and X-ray and pulmonary

chemicals function test may help

Automobileto ident;fy long-termchanges associated

brake pads with asbestos diseases;and linings however...rty identifi-

cation of Iow-doseexposure is unlikely.

DIoxin !seeHerbicides)

Halogenated Carbon Commercial CNS' All cause: Occupational/generalAlphatic tetrachk1ride _tsand Kidney eNS· depression: decreased medical historyHydrocarbons Chloroform intennediates in

u.er alertness, headaches, emphasizing prior

Ethyl bromideorganic sleepiness. k>ss of exposure to these orsynthesis. Skin consdousness. other toxk: agents.

Ethyl chlorideKidney changes: decreased Medical examination

Ethylene dibromide urine flow. swelling with focus on liver.

Ethylene dichloride (especially around eyesl. kidney, nervoos systam,

anemia. and skin.Methyl chloride

Methy1 ctlloroform Liver changes: fatigue. laboratory testing for

malaise. darit urine. liver liver end kidneyMethykme chlortde enlargement. jaundice. function; carboxyhemo-

lOtraehloroethane Vinyl chloride as a knownglobin where relevant.

Tetrachloroethylene carcinogen; severlll others inlperchknoethylene) this group lire potential

Trichloroethylene carcinogens.

Vinyl chlortde

Medical Program

'IobIe 5-2. (cont.l

NAZAllDOUSSUIlSTAHCEOR CHEMICALGROUP COMPOUNDS

AI-.ic8o<yIIium

Cedmium

Chromium

Lead

Mercury

USES ll'IIGET ORGANS POTENT1AL HEAIl'H EFFECTS

Multiple _ AD ..mxic lO 11>0 tklneyo.

- - bch hNvy mellI/ ha iaI ownincluding: c:hlnc1eristic "'ii1plDm cIuoter.Blood For~ __

c.diopuImonary cIecl,osod _ oboTIty... wu_~_I.GasbDin_Ill... hoadacIMo. lIbclominoi __ICidney -mea. _ ..-. Lead .,.,u- ...., _lhe bloocHunning

mochenism. tklneyo. _11>0lung lIedphe... """""'" __CNS" 1Dng-term _...., vory.SItin Lead lDXicity .,., __ perma­

nent Iddnoy _ brain~:,*,mium .,., __ kidney orlung cr_ Chromium. beryl­lium. .....,ic, _ l*lmium

hove boon impIicotod os human-anogons.

MEDICAL MONITORING

History-taking ­physical eum: """'"for .." i i"'toli i i clusters_with~

"""'" exposure. ag.. for_ look for -.oIogi­cal cIoIicit. _. _

gutroin-srii Iptoms.

Ubomory lIOSting:

Moosuromon1s ofrnetaUic content inblood. urine, _ tis--- leG. blood _1eYeI; wine screen for..-.ic, mercury,chromium. _

codmiurnl.CllC"Moasuremont ofkidney function, __ function whore

lOIev8nt.

ChostX..." ...pulmonary function_ng whore roIovant.

-. Chlorophot IOlCy Vegetationcornpou_: control.

2.4-<lich1oro-phenoxyacoticocid 12.4-01

2.4.5-trichloro­phenox,aceticocid 12.4.!Hl

Dioxin (tetrachJoro-.dibenzo-p-dioxin.TCOD},wtUchoca.n as 8 tracecontaminant in1heso~,

poses the mostserious hearth rtsk..

Orv- ChIoriMted Post control,Inoocdc:ides ethones:

DDTCydodiones:

AldrinChIonlonoDieklrinEndrin

ChSorophenoxV compounds cancause cNorac:ne. weakness ornum_ of 11>0 onns _logs, _ moy .....It Inlong-term _ damogaDioxin __ chlorac:no _

moy egg- pro.existing ­8nd kidney diseases..

All ceuse .cute _J''' ...toms ofIIPPIeheI kSion. irritability, dizzi­...... disturbed lIqUIlibrium........... _ convulsions.

C>;clodiones moy-­convulsions without...,_initiaI.,mplOiil$..

~.,.,-­..-. CycIodiot ... _

cNorocycIohexanes cause liverlOldcity _ .,., __

ponnonont kidney damoga

~1Story - physicalexam should focus on11>0 sIUn _ """""'"--Uboi.tot If 1eStSincIudo:

Measurement 01__ kidney function.

whorelOlev8nt.

Urino/ysis.

History - physicoI"'""" should focus on11>0 """""'" __

Ubomory­include:

Moasuremont 01kidney __

function.CllC" lor exposure lO~

Medical Program 5-5

....bIe &-2. lcont.l

HAZARDOUSSIJBS1l\NCEOR CHEMiCAlGROUP COMPOUNDS

Otg~:

DiazinonDich_Dimothoete_.Malathion

Methyl pemhion_ionCIrbemat8:

A1dicerb

IIeygon

Zectron

USES

P8st_.

_variety ofindustrial .......

TARGET ORGANS

u-CNS"(speculative,

Raspirato<y_ (specuIatiwl

Skin

POTENTIAl HEAIIH EFFECTS

All cause 8 chain of internalreaetions leading to neuro­muscular blockage. Dependingon the extent of poisoning.8CU18 symptoms range fromheadaches. fatigue, dizziness.incre8sed sarMltion end crying.profuse sweeting. nausea.vomiting. aemps. .-ld diarrheato tightness in the chest.muscle twitching, and slowingof the heartbeat. Sewre casesmay result in rapid onset ofunc::onsciouane end seizures.A delayed ofhlct may be _ok­ness end numbness in the feetend hands. lDng-tenn. perma­nent nerve damage is possible.

Various skin ailments. includingchloracne; may ceuSG livertoxicity; carcinogenic to.-.imals.

MEDICAL MDNllORING

Physical exam shouktfocus on the nervousaystem.

Laboratory 18sta ahouldinclude:

RBed cholinesteraselevel. for recentexposure (Plasmachofinesterase foracute exposures I.

Measurement ofdelayed neurotoxicityand other effects.

Physical exam shouldfocus on the skin andliver.Laboratory testsinclude:

Sorum PCB level•.Triglycerido. and.cholesterol.

Measurement of liverfunction.

-eNS - Centr8I --.. aystem."C8C - Complete blood count.Clong-bIml olfecto _11y manifest in 10 to 30 yell'"

"RBC - Rod blood count.

In compiling. testing ,,"otocol. belIr in mind th8t stlIndardoccupational medical t8S1B _ .. developed in factoriesand other enclosed industrial environmen1S. and -.­based on the presenca 01~ identifiable toxicchemical. and the possibilily of • signifocam degree ofexposure. Some 01 these t8S1B may not be totally eppro­priate for hazardous __ sites. sinca evailable data aug­gest th8t aile workers have 1ow4eYe1 exposures to manychemical. concurrently, plus brief high-lewl exposu.. toaome chemical. 121. In addition. most testing recommen­dations. even those for apecffic toxic IUbstances. havenot been cri1ica1ly evalueted for efficacy.

Another Important factor 10 consider ill th8t risk can vary,not only with the type, amount and duration of exposu"but also with individual factors IUCh as age, aex. weight.mess. diet. IUSCOPtibolily 10 allergic-type reactions. mecfi­cations taken. and offsi1e exposures IllQ.• in hobbies auchas furniture refinI.hing and automotive body world.

Pre-Employment ScreeningPre-employrnent acreening has two major functions:(1) determination of .. incflYidual·. fitness for duty.Inclucfing the abllily 10 work whole _ring protectiw

equipmen1. end 121 provi.ion of ba.eline d.ta for compo'i­son with Mu.. medical dala. The.e function••re di.·cussed below. In addition, • sample p.....mploymentexamination is described.

Detennl_ of FItness for Duty

Workers al hazardous waste .ite••re often required toperform strenuous ta.ks le.g.. moving 5511allon drum.'and wear personal protective equipment, such 8S respire·tors .nd protective clothing. that may cau.e heat st....end other problems (see Chapter 8 for detail.l. To en.ureth8t prospective employees are able to meet work require-moms. the pre ployrnent screening .hould focus onthe following :

Occupational and Medical HIstory• M.ke su" the worker fill. 0U1 .n occupation.1 .nd

medical history questionnaire. Review the question­nai.. before seeing the worker. In the exeminingroom. discuss the questionnaire with the worker.paying speci.1 attention to prior occupalionelexposures to chemical .nd physical hazard•.

• Review pest illnesse. end chronic disa..... pertic­ularly atopie di.ease. auch as eczema andasthma. lung diseaaes. and cardiovascul.r di.......

Medical Program

• Review "'''ijllui'....peciaDy shortness of breathor labored breathing on~~ cnher chronicrespiratory sympllll'", cMst pein. high blood pres­.... 8nd heat 1ntale1'8llC8.

• Identify Incfrviduals who ere vuInerlIbie 10 particu­lar ...bstaI ICeS (e.;.• *"'MIOI18~ • history of__ 8Sthmlltic III8Ction 10 • -atic c:hernlclIll.

• ReconI ntIevant IfestyIe habits I"G~ cigaretteamokIng. alc0hoi 8nd drug ....., 8nd hobbies.

Phy*-I ExMlNtIan• Conduct. "'COi"""iijli-et"l8I......,u·.. physical tIlCIIl1lination of

... body organs. focussing on the pulmonary,canflCMl8CUlar. 8nd muscuIosk8letal ayl'e",..

• Note condiIionI thai cauId i1creaIa _cep,iblTlty10 heat 8IrObI. 8Uch • obesity 8nd lack of physi­cal eerciIe.

• Note concfrtionl thai could lIffecI respirator ......8Uch • missing or .1Iliitic fingers, facial ace...dentures. pear~ht or pe.-fclilted ear drums.

AbIIIy 10 Wort< WIlle Weamg PiolliCllw Equlpnwrt 131• Disqualify Incfrvicluals who ere clearly _blelO

perfomt based on the medical hillory 8nd physicalIIlCIIm I"G~ 1hose with __ lung disease. heartclsease. or back or orthopedic problems).

• Note ImiIaIions cOllcemillllthe worker's ability 10..... PlolllCti.. equipment I"G., individuals whomust wear conIaCIlenses cannot _ar tun­facepiece ntSPirators).

• Provide adcfrtionll ..,;ng (e.;., cMst X-<ay. pu1mo­nary function~ llIectrocardiogram) for abil­Ity 10 wear PlolllCti.. equipnwrt where.-sary.

• Base the clelermination on the Incfrviclual worker'aproIiIe I"G~ medical history 8nd physicallllCllm,8ll' p<evklus 8llpOllUrIlS 8nd "';ngl.

• Meka a written assessment of the worker'l capec­IIy 10 perlonn while weamg a ntSPinrtor, if wear-

ing a respinrtor is • job requirement. Note thai theOccupational Safety 8nd Health AdrpinistralionlOSHAI respinrtor standard 129 CFR Part 1910.134)_ thai no employee should be assigned 10 a_ thai requires the ..... of a respinrtor unless ithas been clelermined thai the person is physicaDyable 10 perform under 8Uch conditions.

--...D_ ..... FuIun '_ur..Pre-.mployment sc:nleI1ing can be used 10 atablish base­line dele lO ...bsequentIy verify the efficacy of Pl0le<."1ivemeasures 8nd 10 Iatar clelermiM if exposures havelIdwrseIy effec1ed the wor1<er. Baseline ..,;ng mayinclude both medical screening IesIs 8nd biologic moni­toring IIlIts. The latter I"G., blood lead level) may be use­ful for acerteining pnHXpOSUre levels of -atic...bsIances 10 which the wor1<er may be exposed 8nd forwhich reliable IesIs are evailable. Given the problem inpredicting 8ignificant exposures for these worters. thereere no clear guideliMS for p,escribing -atic IIlIts. Thefollowing approach identifies the types of IesIs thai maybe indicated:

• A betIery of IesIs based on the worker's pestoccupaIional 8nd medical history 8nd en assessmentof 8ignificant poIllntialllXPUS\ftS. See Table 5-3 forexamples of IesIs frequently pe<fonned by occupe­tional physicians.

• Standard atablished "';ng for -atic toxicants insituations where wor1<ers may receive 8ignificantexposures 10 these agents. For exam~ Iong-lllmlaxpusure during cleanup of a po/ychIorinaIedbiphenyls IPCB) WIISIll factlily can be moniIored withpnHImployment 8nd periodic serum PCB "';ng 141.Standard procedures are evailable for delermininglevels of other ...bstances, "G., lead. cadmium.arsenic. end organophcsphale pesticides.

• Where eppIicable, pnHImployment blood specimens8nd serum frozen for later "';ng. lPC8s end somepesticides ere examples of agents amenable 10 8Uch1IIOI."toIiI tg.)

RlNCTION

IIIuIdPe I,a_.•-CIopno

_11IOI8

Enzyme­Enzyme 11IOI8

_11IOI8

_11IOI8

EXAMPl.£

1bbII protein" ....... gIobur.... _ bilirubin ldirect bilirubin if _ is _I.

Alcaline~

Gemma gIuIBmyt "IrW__DeDtidase lGGTPI. _ deI¥lrolIenase (llltfl. __ glutamic­__lSGOTJ, __ gIu1amic-pynMc _nase lSGPTJ.

_ .....~ lBUNl, c:rwetinine, uric: ocid.

Inc:Iuding color. : opecific gravity; pH; quarrtatiw glucoslo. pro1ein" bI'" _ oce-_ occult blood; miaoocopic _ of cen1rifuged sodirnent.

Complete blood count lC8CIwiIh clillei.,tiaI-.I platole1eveluation" incIucf'"ll_ eencount lWBCI, Nd blood count IRBCI. hemoglobin lHGBl. homatocrit .. packed een volumeCHCTJ. -.I _Nd • j1hrocyIlI indices. IleticuIocyre count INIY be --""" if 1here is •likelihood cf MpOMn 10 heI.'OI'(tic chemicals.

Sample Pre-Employment ExamlrNltlon

Occupatlonlll ....t MecIcaI HIstory• Do a complete medical history emphasizing these

systems: nervous. skin. lung. blood-forming. cardi­OIIBSCUlar. gastrointestinal. genitourinary. reproduc­tive, ear. nose. and throat.

PhysIcal ExaminationInclude et least the following:

• Height. weight. temperature, pulse. respiration. andblood pressure.

• HIlad. nose. and thmat.

• Eyes. Include vision tests that measure refraction.depth perception. and color vision. These testsshould be administered by a qualified technician orphysician. VISion quality is essential to safety. theaccurate reading of instruments and labels. the avoid­ance of physical hazards. and for appropriateresponse to coIor-<:oded labels and signals.

• Ears. Include audiometric tests. performed at 500.1.000. 2.000, 3,000, 4.000, and 6,000 hertz (Hzlpure tone in an approved booth lsee requirementslisted in 29 CFR Pa" 1910.95, Appendix 0). Testsshould be administered by a qualified technician. andresults read by a cenified audiologist 01" a physicianfemmar with audiometric evaluation. The integrity ofthe eardrum should be established since perforatedeardrums can provide a route of entry for chemicalsinto the body. The physician evaluating employeeswith perfO!"8ted eardrums should COI"ISider theenvironmental conditiorlS of the job and discuss pos­sible specific safety controls with the Site SafetyOfficer, industrial hygienist, and/or other healthprofessionals before deciding whether suchincfrviduals can safely work on site.

• Chest (hea" and lungs).

• Peripherel vascular system.

• Abdomen and rectum fincluding hemia exam).

• Spine and other components of the musculoskeletalsystem.

• Genitourinary system.

• Skin.

• Nervous system.

Tests• Blood.

• Urine.• A 14 x 17-inch posterior/anteriOl" view chest X-<ay,

with lateral or oblique views only if indicated or ifmandated by state regulations. The X-<ay should betaken by a certified rediology technician and inter­preted by a board-certified or board-eligible radiol­ogist. Chest X-<ayS taken in the last 12-monrth period,as well as the oldest chest X-<ay available, should beobtained and used for comparison. Chest X-<aySshould not be repeated more than once a year, unlessotherwise determined by the examining physician.

AbllIty to Perform WhBe WearIng PlOlaCtNa EquIpment10 determine a worker'a capacity to perfOI"m whne wear-

Medical Program 5-7

ing protective equipment. additional tests may be neces­sary. for example:

• Pulmonary function testing. Measurement shouldinclude forced expiratory volume in 1 second lFEV,I,fOl"Ced vital capacity (FVC), and FEV, -to-FVC ratio,with interpretation and comparison to normalpredicted values corrected for age, height, race, andsex. Other factors such as FEF, MEFR. MW, FRc, AV.and TlC' may be included for additional information.A permanent record of flow curves should be placedin the worker's medical records. The tests should beconducted by a certified technician and the resultsinterpreted by a physician.

• Electrocardiogram (EKGI. At least one standard,12-1ead resting EKG should be performed at the dis­cretion of the physician. A "stress tast" (grededexerciseI may be administered at the discration of theexamining physician, particularly where heat stressmay occur.

_fine Monitoringtf there is likelihood of potential oosite exposure to 8 par­ticular toxicant, specific baseline monitoring should beperformed to establish data relating to that toxicant.

Periodic Medical Examinations

PwtocIIc Screening

Periodic medical examinations should be developed andused in conjunction with pre-employment screeningexaminations. Comparison of sequential medical reportswith baseline data is essential to determine biologictrends that may mark early signs of adverse healtheffects. and thereby facilitate appropriate protectivemeasures.

The frequency and content of examinations will vary,depending on the nature of the work and exposures.Generally, medical examinations have been recommendedat least yearly. More frequent examinations may benecessary. depending on the extent of potential or actualexposure. the type of chemicals involved. the duration ofthe work assignment,. and the individual worker's profile.For example, workers participating in the cleanup of aPCB-eontaminated building were initially examinedmonthly for serum PCB levels. Review of the data fromthe first few months revealed no appreciable evidence ofPCB exposure. The frequency of PCB testing was thenreduced [41. Periodic screening exams can include:

• Interval medical history, focusing on changes inhealth status. illnesses. and possible work-relatedsymptoms. The examining physician should haveinformation about the worker's interval exposure his­tory, including exposure monitoring at the job site.supplemented by worker-rep«ted exposure historyand general information on possible exposures atpreviously worked sites.

• Physical examination.

, FEF _ forced expiratory flow; MEFR = maximal expiratory flowrate; MW = maximal voluntary ventilation; FRC = functionalresidual capacity; RV = residual volume; TLC = total tungcapacity.

Medical Program

.. Additional medicalleSting. depending on lMI~able

~ information. medical ....stOfY. end examina­tion f8SU1ts. 18sting should be specific for the pos­sible medical effects of the __ exposure.Multiple leSting for a large range of potential8XpOSUf1lS is not a1WllYS useful; it may imIoIYe inva­siw pn>ceduras (e.g.• tissue biopsy). be lIlq>ef1Siw,_ may produce false-positive f8SU1ts.

Pulmonary function tests should be administenld ifthe individual uses a respirator. has been or may beexposed to irritating or toxic substances. or if theindividual has breathing difficulties. especiallywhen wearing a respirator.Audiometric tests. Annual retests are requirad forpersonnel subject to high noise exposures (anlHlour. time-weighted average of 85 dBA' or morel.those requirad to wear hearing prntection. or esotherwise indicated.Vision tests. Annual retests are recommended tocheck for vision degradation.Blood and urine tests when indicated.

.....pIe~M..nc.I Eumlnatlon

The basic periocfoc medical examination is the same asthe pre-employment screening (see prevIous section.Sample Prrt-Emplayment Examination). rnocflfied accord­ing to cunent conditions, such as changes In the _,,_symptoms. site hazards. or exposures.

Termination ExaminationAt the _ of employment at a hazardous waste~ allpersonnel should have a medical examination asdescribed in the prevIous sections (see Sample Ptrt­Employment Examination). This examination may belimited to obtaining an interval medical hIstOfY of theperiod since the last full examination (consisting of medi­cal hIstOfY. physical examination. _ IaboratOfY tests) ifaIIlhree following concfrtions are met

.. The last full medical examination was within the last6rnonths.

.. No exposure occurred since the last examination.

.. No symptoms associated with exposure occurredsince the last examination.

" any of these criteria are not met. a fun examination ismecfocany necessary at the termination of employment.

Emergency TreatmentProvisions for emergency treatment _ acute non­em&rgeIlCY treatment should be made at each site.Prep!aming is vital.

When developing plans, procedures. _ equipment lists.the renge of actual and potential hazards specif"oc to thesite should be considerad. including chemical. physical(such as heat _lor cold stress, falls _ trips). _ bi0­logic hazards (animal bites _ plant poisoning as well ashazardous biological wastes). Not only site _rs. but

• elBA - decibels on A-weighted _ 129 CFR Part 1910.951.

also contractors. visitors, and other personnel (particu­larly firefightersl may require emergency treatment.

Emergency medical treatment should be integrated withthe overall site emergency response program (see Chap­ter 12). The following are recommended guidelines forestablishing an emergency treatment program.

.. Trein a team of site personnel in emergency first aid.ThIs should include a Red Cross or equivalent certi­fied course in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR),_ first-eid 1reining that emphasizes treatment forexplosion and bum injuries. heat stress, and acutechemical toxicity. In addition. this team shouldinclude an emergency medical technician (EMT) ifpossible. Table 5-4 fIstS signs and symptoms ofexposure _ heat stress that indicate potential medi­cal emergencies.

.. Train personnel in emergency decontamination pr0ce­

dures in coordination with the Emergency ResponsePlan (see Chapter 12 for deta~sl.

.. Predesignate roles and responsib~itiesto be assumedby personnel in an emergency.

.. Establish an emergency/first-eid station on~ cap­able of providing 111 stabilization for patients requiringoffsite treatment. _ (2) general first aid (e.g. minorcuts. sprains, abrasionsl.

IDeate the station in the clean area adjacent to thedecontamination area to facilitate emergencydecontamination.Provide a standard first-aid kit or equivalent sup­plies, plus additional items such as emergencyldel­uge showers. stretchers. portable water. ice.emergency eyewash. decontamination solutions.and fire-utinguishing blankets.Restock supplies and equipment immediately aftereach use and check them regularly.

.. Arrange for a physician who can be paged on a24-hour basis.

.. Set up an on..,." team of medical specialists foremergency consuJtations. e.g.• a toxicologist. derma­tologist. hematologist. allergist. opthalmologist.cardiologist. and neurologist.

.. Establish a protocol for monitoring heat stress (seeMonitoring section of Chapter 81•

.. Make plans in advance for emergency 1rensportationto, treatment at. _ contamination control pr0ce­

dures for a nearby medical facility.Educate local emergency transport and hospitalpersonnel about possible medical problems on site;types of hazards and their consequeroces; potentialfor exposure; scope and function of the site medi­cal program.Assist the hospital in developing procedures forsite-related emergencies. This will help to protecthospital personnel and patients. and to minimizedelays due to concems about hospital safety orcontamination.For specific nJnesses or injuries. provide deta~s ofthe incident and the worker's past medical histOfYto the appropriate hospitel staff. This is especiallycrucial when specific medical treatment is requirad.e.g. for exposure to cyanide or organophosphatepesticides.

liIbIe &-4. Signs and Symptoms of Chemical Exposure andHeat Stress that Indicata PI:ltentialMedical Emergencies

TYPE OF HAZARD

Heat StrolteCmay be fatall

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

BehlMonlIchangesBroathing _

Changes in complexion '" skin colorCoordination difficulties

Coughing

Dizziness

DroolingDiarrheaFatigue endlo<__

Irritability

Irritation of eyes, nose. nlSPiratorv tract. akin,"'-HeadacheLight-headedness

Nausea

SMezing

S_ating

......ringTlQhtness in the chest

Clammy skin

Confusion

Dizziness

Fainting

Fatigue

Heat rash

Light-headedness

Nausea

Profuse sweating

S1ulT8d-'>Weak pulse

Contusion

Convulsions

Hot skin. high _ature {yet may feelchilled)Incoherent speech

Convulsions

Staggering gaitS_ng _ {yet residual sweat may beIJ<8S8f1tIUnconsciousness

Medical Program 5-9

Depending on the aite'slocation end potentialhazarda, Itmay be important to identify additional medical facllltiaacapable of aophi8ticated response to chemical or otherexposures.

• PI:lat conspicuously (with dupficatea near the tele­phoMs) the names, phone numbers. add........and procedures for contacting:

~n physicians.Medical specialists.Ambulance aenrices.Medical facilltyr_).Emergency, firtl. and police aenrices.Poison controIltotIine.

• Provide maps and directions.

• Make sure at least an managers and an individualsil1llOlved in medical response know the wtlY to thenearest emergency medical faCIlity.

• Establish a radiocommunication ayatem for emer-gency use. .

• Review emergency procedures daily with an sitepe<sonnel at safety meetings before beginning thework shift.

Non-Emergency TreatmentAnangernents should be made for llClIHf1l8fllency medi­cal care for hazardous waste site worksrs who ..experiencing health effects resulting from an exposure tohazardous substances. In conjunction with the medicalsu"""llance program, offaIte me<f1C81 care aItould -.,rethat any potential job-re!atad symptoms or iIIneaaes areevaluatad in the context of the workar's exposurtl. Offsitemedical personnel should also investigate and tJ8at non­job-relatad U1nesses that may put the worker at riskbecause of task requirements C"".. a bad cold or flu thatmight interfere with respirator use). A copy of 1Iteworksr's medical recorda should be kept at the site Cwithprovisions for security and confidentiality) and, whenappropriate, at a nearby hospital. lieating physiciansshould have access to these recortIs.

Medical RecordsProper recordkeeping is essential at hazardous wastesites because of the nature of the work and risks:employees may work at a large number of geogrephicallyseparate sites during their careers. end advarae effects oflong-term exposure may not become apparent for manyyears. Records enable subsequent medical care providersto be informed about worksrs' previous and currentexposures.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration COSHA)regulations mandata that, unless a specific occupationalsafety and heelth stendard provides a different timeperiod, the employer must:

• Msintain and preserve medical recorda on exposedworksrs for 30 years after they leave employment(29 CFR Part 1910.201.

5-10 Medical Program

• Make available to workers. their authorized represen­tatives. lind authorized OSHA representatives theresults of medical testing and full medical recordslind analyses 129 CFR Part 1910.201.

• Maintain records of occupational injuries and ill­nesses and post a yearly aummary report 129 CFRPart 19041.

Program ReviewRegular avaluation of the medical program is important toensure its effectiveness. Maintanance and review of medi­cal records and test results aid medical personnel, siteofficers. and the parant company and/or agency managersin assessing the effectiveness of the health and safetyprogram. The Site Safety Officer, mecflClll consultant.lind/or management representative should. at leastannually:

• Ascertain that each accident or n1ness wasprornplly irMlstigated to determine the cause lindmake necessary changes in health and safetyprocedures.

• Evaluate the efficacy of specific medical testing inthe context of potential site exposures.

• Add or delate medical tests as suggested by cur­rant industrial ~iene and environmantal cIe1a.

• Review potential exposures and Site Safety Plansat an sites to determine if additional testing isrequired.

• Review emergency treatment procedures andupdate lists of emergency contae1S.

References1. Proficiency Testing Programs

Division of lilchnoIogy Evaluation and AssistanceLaboratory Program OfficeCenter for Disease ControlAtlanta. GA 30333

College of American Pathologists7400 N. Skokie B1-.d.Skokie, II. 60077

American Association for Bioanalysts205 W. Levee StreetBrownsvnle, TX 78520

2. Costello. R.J. 1983. u.s. Environmental ProtectionAgency Triangle Chemical Site, Bridge City, Texas.NIOSH Health Hazard Evaluations DeterminationReport. HETA 83-417-1357.

3. ANSI. 1984. American National Standard for Respira­tory Protection. ANSI Z88.6-1984. American NationalStandards 1nsti1ute, 1430 Broadway. New lbrk. NY10018. .

4. Gleit. A.; Cohen. A.G.; Chase, K.H.; .,d J. lOth. 1985.Summary Report of the Medical Survenlanc& Programfor the Binghamton State Office Building Decontami­nation Project. Prepared for Versar New lbrk. Inc.

6. Site Characterization

Contents

Offsite information can be obtained by two methods:interview/records research and perimeter reconnaissance.

Off.lte CharacterizationAs much information as possible should be obtainedbefonl site entry so that the hazards can be evaluated andpreliminary controls instituted to protect initial entry per­sonnel. Initial information-gethering missions shouldfocus on identifying an potantiel or suspected conditionsthat may pose inhalation hazards that ara invnediatelydangerous to life or health lIDLH)' or other concfotionsthat may cause death or serious herm (see Table 6-1).

1he sections below deteil the three phases of site charac­lIIrization and provide a general guide which should beadapted to meet the specific situation. Within each phaseof information gathering. the most appropriate sequenceof S1IIps should be determined. psrticularly if thera eratime or budget considerations that Amit the scope of thework. Wherever possible, en information sources shouldbe pursued.

6-6

6-7

6-16-2

6-2

6-4

Introduction 6-1

Offsite Characterizatiofl 6-1InterviewlRecords ResearchPerimeter ReconnaissanceProtection of Entry I'Ilrsonnel

Onsite Surwy 6-2

Information Documentation

Hazard Assessment 6-5Threshold limit Value mV) 6-5Parmissible Exposure Limit (PEl) 6-5Recommended Exposure Limit (REL) 6-6IDLH Concentrations 6-6Potential Skin Absorption and IrritationPotential Eye Irritation 6-6Explosion and Aammability Ranges

Hazardous Substance Information Form

Monitoring 6-6

References 6-8

InboduetlonSite characterization provides the information needed toidentify site hazards and to select worker protectionmethods. 1he more eccunrte. dete~ed. end compt ellen­_ the information eva~able about a aile. the more theprotectiw measures can be lII~ored to the actual hazardsthat workers may encounter.

1he person with primary responsibility for site characteri­zation end assessment is the Project Teem Leader. In .addition. outside experts. such as chemists. health physi­cists. industrial hygienists, end toxicologists. may beneedad to eccurateIy end fully interpret an the eva~able

information on site conditions.

TebIe 6-1. Visible Indicators of PotentiallDLH and OtherDangerous Conditions

• IJlrge contain<lf$ or tanks _ must be ...-.

• Enclosed spaces such as buildings or tretd'tes that must be...-.• _rly 8lCp!osiw or tIllmmabie -.,.,. roncfteated by bulging

drums, -.....sconce, gas generation. or instrument readings).

• Extreme/y hazardous materials (such as cyanide, phosgene, ornldiation sources).

• VISib4e vapor clouds.. • Areas where biological indicators lauch as dead .,imals Of

vagatstionl .... located.

Site charactetization generally proceeds in three phases:

• Prior to site entry. conduct offsite charllC1llt ization:gather information -av from the site and conductreconnaissance from the site perimeter.

• Next, conduct onsite surwys. During this phase,restrict site entry to reconnaissance personnel.

• Once the site has been determined safe for com­rnenc:ernet ot of other activities, perform ongoingmonitoring to provide a continuous source of infor­mation about site conditions.

It is important to recognize that site characterization is acontinuous pi ocess. At each phase of site characteriza­tion. information should be obtained and evaluated todefine the hazards that the site may pose. This assess­ment can then be used to cIewlop a safety end healthplan for the next phase of work. In edcfotion to the formalinformation gathering that lIIkes place during the phasesof site characterization clescribed he" en site personnelshould be constantly alen for new information about siteconditions.

Ilita wlewfRecorda R....rch

As much data as possible should be collected before anypersonnel go on site. Where possible, the fonowing infor­mation should be obtained:

• Exact location of the site.

• Deta~ad clescription of the activity that occurred 8tthe site.

• Duration of the activity.

• Meteorologic date. eg.• currant _ether end forecast.prevailing wind direction. precipitation IeYels. temper­ature profiles.

• Terrain. eg.• historical end currant site maps. site ph0­tographs. aerial photographs. U.s. Geological Surwytopographic quadrangle maps. land use maps. andland COlIer maps.

"out condItions ""'" to Inha1I1tion hazards C_ section on IDl.HCoo_It1atioM _ in Ihia chopter).

6-2 Site Characterization

• Geologic and hydrologic data.

• Habitation-population centers. population at risk.

• Accessibility by air and roads.

• Pathways of dispersion.

• Present status of response and who has responded.

• Hazardous substances involved and their chemicaland physical properties. Information sources include:

COmpany records. receipts. logbooks. or ledgers.Records from state and federal pollution controlregulatory and enforcement agencies. state Attor­ney General's office, state occupational safety andhealth agencies. state Fire Marshal's ofTJCe.Waste storage inventories and manifests or ship­ping papers.Interviews with personnel and their families lallinterview information should be verified).Generator and transporter records.Water department and sewage district records.Interviews with nearby residents (note possiblesite-related medical problems and verity all infor­mation from interviews).

IDeal fire and police department records.Coun records.Utility company records.Media repons (verity all information from themedia).

• Previous surveying foncluding soil. ground-penetratingradar. and magnetometer surveys). sampling. andmonitoring data.

.....:meter R8COIlft8iasance

At a site in which the hazards are largely unknown orthere is no need to go on site immediately. visual observa­tions should be made. atmospheric concentrations of air­borne pollutants at the site perimeter should be monitored(see Chapter 7. Air Monitoringl. and samples should becollected near the site. While these data are not definitiveindicators of onsite conditions. they can assist in thepreliminary evaluation. Perimeter reconnaissance of a siteshould involve the following actions:

• Develop a preliminary site map, with the locations ofbuildings. containers. impoundments. pits. ponds.and tanks.

• Review historical and current aerial photographs.Note:

Disappearance of natural depressions. quarries. orpits.

Variation in reforestation of disturbed areas.Mounding or uplift in disturbed areas or paved sur­faces. or modifications in grade.Changes in vegetation around buildings.Changes in traffic pattems at the site.

• Note any labels. markings. or placards on containersor vehicles.

• Note the amount of deterioration or damage of con­tainers or vehicles.

• Note any biologic indicators. such as dead animals orplants.

• Note any unusual conditions. such as clouds. dis­colored liquids. oil slicks. vapors. or other suspicioussubstances.

• Monitor the ambient air at the site perimeter (seeChapter 7. Air Monitoring) for:

Toxic substances.

COmbustible and flammable gases or vapors.Oxygen deficiency.Ionizing radiation.

Specific materials. if known.

• Note any unusual odors.

• Collect and analyze offsite samples. including (seereference (1) for methods):

Soil.Drinking water.

Ground water.Site run-off.Surface water.

P'Ohh."1ion of Entry .........ne1

The information from interview/records research andperimeter reconnaissance is used as the basis for select­ing the protective equipment for the initial site survey. Inaddition. the proposed work to be accomplished must beconsidered. For example. if the purpose of the survey is toinspect onsite condittons.. count containers. measure theambient air for "hot spots" !i.e.. areas with high concen­trations of toxic chemicalsl. and generally become famil­iar with the site. the level of protection may be lessstringent than if containers are to be opened and samplestaken. (Chapter 8. Personal Protective Equipment. pr0­vides more detail on the selection of protective iterns.)

The ensemble of clothing and equipment referred to aslevel B protection is generally the minimum level recom­mended for an initial entry until the site hazards havebeen funher identif",d and the most appropriate protec­tive clothing and equipment chosen. level B equipment isdescribed in Table 8-7. Chapter 8.

Onsite SurveyThe purpose of an onsite survey is to verity and supple­rnent information from the offsite characterization. Priorto going on site. the offsite characterization should beused to develop a Site Safety Plan for site entry thataddresses the work to be eccomplished and prescribesthe procedures to protect the heelth and safety of theentry team. Priorities should be established for hazardassessment and site activities after careful 8Y8luation ofprobable conditions. Because team members may beentering a largely unknown environment. caution andconservative actions are appropriate. The composition ofthe entry team depends on the site characteristics butshould always consist of at least four persons: twoworkers who will enter the site and two outside supportpersons. suited in personal protective equipment and pre.pared to enter the site in case of emergency. Upon enter­ing the site. entry personnel should:

• Monitor the air for fDLH and other conditions thatmay cause death or serious harm (combustible or

As part of site charaeteriztJtion, workers suited in l.tNe1 Aprotective ensambles work in pairs when investigatingconfined spaces.

explosive atmospheres, oxygen deficiency, toxic sub­stances). Chapter 7 provides detailed infonnation onair monitoring.

o Monitor for ionizing radiation. Survey for gamma andbeta radiation with a Gaiger-Mueller detection tube ora gamma scil'tillation tube; if alpha radiation isexpected, use a proportional counter.

o Visually observe for signs of actual or potential IDLHor other dangerous conditions (see Table 6-1).

Any indication of IDLH hazards or other dangerous condi­tions should be ragarded as a sign to pn>ceed with careand deliberation. Extreme caution should be exercised incontinuing the site survey when such hazards are indi­cated. Table 6-2 provides some basic guidelines fordecisiorHNlking. If IDLH or other dangerous conditionsera no1 present. or if proper precautions can be taken,continue the survey:

o Conduct further air monitoring as necessary (seeChapter 7).

o Nota the types of containers, impoundmenlS. or otherSlorage systems:

Paper or wood packages.Metal or plaSlic barrals or drums.Underground tanks.Aboveground tanks.Comprassed gas cylinders.Pits, ponds, or lagoons.Other.

o Nota the condition of waste containers and Sloragesystems:

Sound (undamagedI.VISibly rusted or corroded.lBaking.Bulging.Types and quantities of malerial in containers.labels on containers indicating corrosive. explosive,flammable, radioactive. or toxic materials.

Site Characterization 6-3

o Note the physical condition of the materials:

Gas, liquid, or solid.Color and turbidity.Behavior. ag.• corroding. foaming, or vaporizing.Conditions conduciw to splash or contact.

o Identify natural wind barriers:

Buildings.Hills.Tanks.

o Determine the potential pa1hways of dispersion:

Air.Biologic routes, such as animals and food chains.Ground water.land surface.Surface water.

o If necessary. use one or mora of the followingremote sansing or subsurface inwstigaliwmethods to locate buried waS1es or contaminantplumes:

Electromagnetic resistivity.Seismic refraction.Magnetometry.Metal detection.Ground-penetrating radar.

o Note any indicators of potential exposure to haz·ardous substances:

Dead fish. animals or vegetation.Dust or spray in the air.Fissures or cracks in solid surfaces that exposedeep waste layers.Pools of liquid.Foams or OIls on liquid surfaces.Gas generation or effervescence.Deteriorating containers.Cleared land areas or possible Iandfilled areas.

o Note any safety hazards. Consider:

Conditions of site Slructures.Obstacles to entry and exit.Terrain homogeneity.Terrain stability.Stability of stacked malerial.

o Identify any reactive. incompatible, flammable, orhighly corrosiw wastes.

o Note land features.

o Note the prasance of any potential naturally occur­ring skin initants or dermatitis-inducing agents. forexample:

Poison ivy.Poison oak.Poison sumac.

o Note any tags. labels. markings. or other identify­ing indicators.

6-4 Site Characterization

1WlIe 8-2. Guidefines for Some Atmospheric Hazard"

MONITORING EQUIPM~ MEASURED LEVEl ACTION

Combustible goo incfocetor <10... LELd10...·25... LEL

>25"'LEL

Continuo irMlstigstion.

Continuo onsite monitoring with extreme caution eo high«-. .... oncountered.Explosion __ Withdnrw from ..... Immedistely.

Rodiation __ equipment "2 mromJhr-l--Oxygen COIK:6i ibationmeter

<19.5'"

19.5...·25...

>25...

>2mromlhr

Monitor wearing self_ned breathing _NOTE: Combustible goo reedings .... not .....'" in -.ospheteowith <19.5'" oxygen.Continuo irMlstigation with caution. Deviation from nonnaI_ mey bs clue 10 !he presence at _ subs.. ICeS.

Fire _ potential. Discontinuo irMlstigetion. Consutt • fireosIety speciafist.

Rodiation _ background-. Inorme/1y O.01.Q.02mromllvlS signifies !he possible p<esence at rocf_oources. Continuo irMlstigstion with caution. I'I1rlormthorough monitoring. Consult with • health physicist.

_oJ radiation hazard. Evocuote lite. Continuo irMlstigs­lion only upon !he _ at • health physicist.

~ _ arpnIc CoIotimobic tubas Oopends on_ - _ ChomicoHpecffic nttu- chomicaI

moms. IncIucfmg her","meter, hydrogen sulfide~.corbon_

monitor. _ mercury meter

Consult standard refereI K:e manuals for eir concentra­IionI1Dxicity data. Action _ depends on PELJRELfTlY.•

0rg0nIc:-­- PonIIbIe photoicM lizer

Org.,;c --.Iyzor11 Opomod in """ c:hn>-matog,"""" (GCI ..­210p0m0d in __..-

Oopendsonchemical

Consult standard refet e11Cd manuals for air concentra­IionI1Dxicity data. Action _ depends on PELJRELfTlY.•

_ on_~ Guides. US EPA. Docembor. 1984.on-. .... at hazards. Not l1li COi '_101 110 at 1hese _ can bs moesunld.

ee-.tt menufocturenI' Itonrturo for UOO _ IS essoci_ with !he specific equipment _ for !he specific ...bst81lCOS !heequipment can dot8Ct. See 18b1es 7·1 one! 7·2 for more compIeto description..

"La. - -.~ limit.emnmnv - milliroentgen equivalent in INWl per how.'Soun:o: us. Nuclear lleguIatory Commission Rules _ Reg"_ 10 CFR Cheptor 1. Port 20.105.ISoun:e: Sex. lH. 1979. Dongerous "'-ties at IndustrieI Materiel.. Fifth Ed"rtion. .. 167. VOn Nostnond Reinhold Compeny. New 'lbrlt.

"PEl - OSHA ponnissible _limit.REl - NIOSH 1'ICOi'W'dded exposure limit.TLlI - thieohold limit voIus.See 18bIe 6-4.

- Collect ..mples (1):

Air ...... Chap1llr 7. Air Monitoringl.Drainege di1I:hes.Soil (aurfece end subsurface'.Stsnding pools of liquids.S1Or8ge containers.Streams end ponds.Ground W8t8r (upgradient. beneeth~ down­grad"1Ol1t).

- Sample for or otherwise identify:

BIologic or pathologic hazerds.Rediologic hazerds.

Information DocumentationProper cIocumente1ion end document control ere impor·tant for ensuring eccurete communicetion; ensuring thequality of the det8 collected; providing the rationale forsefety clecisions; and substantiating possible legalections. Documentation can be eccomplished by record·ing information pertinent to field activities. sample enaly­sis, end _ conditions in one of several ways. including:

- Logbooks.

- Reid det8 records.

-Graphs.

- Photographs.

- Sample lebels.

• Chain-ot-custody forms.

• Analytical records.

These documents should be controlled to ensure thatthey ere en 8CCOUnted for when the project is completed.The task of document control should be essigned to oneindividuel on the project teem end should include thefollowing responsib~ities:

• Numbering each document fincluding sample labels)with a unique number.

• Usting eech document in e document inventory.

• Recording the whereabouts of eech document in aseparate document register so that eny documentcen be readily Ioceted. In particular. the name endlocation of site personnel that have documents intheir possession should be recorded.

• Collecting ell documents et the end of each workperiod.

• Making sure that all document entries ere made inwaterPrOof ink.

• Filing an documents in a central file et the completionof the site response.

Field personnel should record ell onsite ectivities endobservations in e field logbook-a bound book with con­secutiw/y numbered pages. Entries should be made dur­ing or just efter completing a tesk to ensure thoroughnessend accurecy. Table 6-3 shows the level of deta~ thatshould be recorded during sampling.

Photographs een be an accurate. objective addition to afield worker's written observations. For each photographtaken. the following information should be recorded in thefield logbook:

• Dete. time. end name of site.

• Name of the photographer.

• Location of the subject within the site.

• General compess direction of the orientation of thephotograph.

• General description of the subject.

• Sequential number of the photograph end the film rollnumber.

• Camera, lens. end film type used for photography.

Serially numbered sample labels or tags should beessigned to sampling team personnel end recorded in thefield logbook. Lost. wided, or damaged labels should benoted in the logbook. labels should be firmly effixed tothe sample containers using either gummed labels or tagsettached by string or wire. Information should be recordedon the tag in waterproof ink and should include itemssuch sa:

• The unique sample log number.

• Dete end time that the sample wes collected.

• Source of the sample. e.g.. name. location, and typeof sample.

• PYeservetive used.

• Analysis required.

Site Characterization 6-5

0J>J. /

~-_... _- ':

Sample jars are labelled prior to sampling as part ofsitedocumentation proceduIPtIt..

• Name of collector.

• Pertinent field data.

In addition to supporting litigation. written records ofsample collection. transfer, storage. enalysis, end destruc­tion help ensure the proper interpretation of enalytieeltest results. Information describing the chain of custodyshould be recorded on a form that accompanies the sam­ple from collection to destruction.

Hazard AssassmentOnce the presence and concentrations of specific chemi·eels or classes of chemieels have been established, thehazards sasociated with these chemieels must be deter­mined. This is done by referring to standard referencesources for data and guidelines on permissible levels ofexposure. flammability. etc. Some key guidelines are listedin Table 6-4 and are described below.

Threshold L1mh ¥Slue lTLVle

TLVs een be used as a guideline for determining theappropriate level of worker protection. These values havebeen derived for many substances and een be fotJnd inThreshold Umit Values for Chemical Substances endPhysical Agents. which is published annually by theAmerieen Conference of Govemmental IndustrialHygienists IACGIHI [21. The ACGIH defines three eetagor­ies of TLVs: time-weighted average llWA); short-termexposure limit (STEL); and ceiling ICI. All three eetagoriesmay be useful in selecting levels of protection et a hazard­ous waste site. Refer to the Threshold Umit Values forChemical Substances and Physical Agents [21 for eddi­tional deta~s.

.......lssIbI. Exposure L1mh IPEU

Permissible exposure limits are enforceable standardspromulgated by OSHA. In many ceses they ere derivedfrom TLVs published in 1968. The PEL for e substance isthe lHlour time-weighted average or ceiling concentration

6-6 Site Characterization

liIb1e 8-3. Example of Field Logbook Entriesto Oescribe Sampling

• Date end time of entJy.

• PIIrpose of sampling.

• Nlme, oddress, end lIfIiUation of personnel perfomUng sampling.• Name end oddress of the material's producer. if known.

• 1YPe of material. ago oIudge or wastewater.

• Description of material container.

• Description of sample.• 0temicaI CtN 14JOI let Its .-t COilCeiibalions,. if known.

• Number end size of samples bII<en.

• Description end location of the sampling point.

• Date end time of s.npIe collection.

• Difficulties expel iet ""'" in _ning sample lag. is it__of the bulk materia/7l.

• Visual referelK:eS. such as maps or photographs of thesampling site.

• Field observations. such os _ conditions duringsampling periods.

• Field measurements of the materials. ag. explosiwness.flammability. or pH.

• Whether chain-ol-custody forms have been fined outfor the samples.

above which workers may not be exposed. Although per­son8l pooteetive 8quipment may not be raquired forexposures below tha PEL. no use may be 8dvislIbie wherethare is a potential for Ull'erexposure. See tha tables andSUbstanca-specif1C standards in 29 CFR Part 1910. Sub­part Z. for additional detail..

Recommended E_.... Umlt CREW

A NIOSH recommended exposure Umit (REW is tha work­place axpusure COt lClli;b ation recommended by NIOSHfor promulgation by OSHA as a PEL. but is not enforce­able as is tha OSHA PEL In some cases. NIOSH hasdescribed time-weighted average conC&ilbaLions in tennsof 10-h0ur. reth8r than 8-hour. averages.

IDLH Concentretlons

IDLH axpusure concentrations have been established bytha NIOSH/OSHA Standards Completion Progrem (SCP)as a guideline for selecting respirators for some chemi­cal.. The definition of IDLH varies depending on thesource. For example, tha Mine Safety and Health Adminis­tration Standard 130 CFR Part 11.3[tll defines IDLH condi­tions as those that pose an immediate threat to fife orhealth or that pose an immediate threat of severeexposure to contaminants such as radioactive materialsthat are likely to have adverse cumulative or delayedeffects on health. The NIOSH Pocket Guide to ChemicalHazards (31 defines IDLH concentration as the" ••• maximum level from which one could escape within30 minutes without any escape-il'npairing symptoms orany irreversible health effects ...." The AmericanNational Standards Institute, Inc. (ANSI) defines IDLH as" •••any atmosphere that poses an immediate hazard tolife or produces immediate irreversible debilitating effectson health •• :' [41. Regardless of thair exact definition, allIDLH values indicate those corICantrations of toxic sub­stances from which escape is possible without irre­versible harm should a worker's respiratory protective

equipment fail. At hazardous waste sites.. IDLH COI'ICeilba­tions should be assumed to represent concentrationsabCMO which only workers wearing respirators that pr0­

vide the maximum protection (i.e.. a positive-pressure,.full-facepiece, self-<:ontainecl breathing apparatus [SCBAIor a combination positive-pressure,. full-facepiece.supplied-air respirator with positive-pressure SCBA (seeChapter 81l are permitted. Specific IDLH values for manysubstances can be found in tha NIOSH Pocket Guide toChemical HazarrJs [31.

PotantIaI Skin Absorption and Irritation

Information on skin absorption is providecI in tha ACGIHpublication. Threshold limit ~/ues for Chemical Sub­stances and PhysicalAgents [21 and in OSHA standard29 CFR Part 1910.1000 and oth8r standard references.These cIocuments identify substances that can be readilyabsorbed through tha skin. mucous membranes. andloreyes by either airborne exposure or direct contact with arIQuid. This information, like most available information onskin absorption is qualitative. It indicates whether. but notto what extent. a substance may pose a dermal hazard.Thus decisions made concerning skin hazards are neces­sarily judgmental.

In addition. many chemicals. although not absorbedthrough tha skin. may cause skin irritation at the point ofcontact. Signs of skin irritation range from redness. swen­ing. or itching to bums that destroy skin tissue. Standardreferences can be used to determine whether a chemicalmay act as an irritant.

PotantIaI Eye Irritation

Quantitative data on eye irritation are not always availa­ble. Where a review of tha literature indicates that a sub­stance causes eye irritation. but no threshold is specified.have a competent health professional evaluate tha data todetermine tha level of personal protection needed foronsite workers.

ExplosIon and F1am....b111ty Ra_The lower explosive limit (LEU or lower flammable 6mitlLFU of a substance is tha minimum concentration of gasor vapor in air below which the substance will not bumwhen exposed to a source of ignition. This concentrationis usually expressed in percent by volume. Below this c0n­

centration. tha mixture is too "lean" to bum or explode.

The upper explosive limit IUEL) or upper flammable limitlUFlI of a substance is the maximum concentration ofgas or vapor abCMO which the substance will not bumwhen exposed to a source of ignition. AbUII'e this c0ncen­

tration. the mixture is too "rich" to bum or explode.

The flammable range is the range of concentrationsbetween the LFL and UFL where the gas-air mixture willsupport combustion.

The flashpoint of a substance is the minimum tempera­ture at which it gives off sufficient vapor to form anignitable mixture with tha air just abCMO the surface of thasubstance. Ignition of 8 substance at the flashpoint is notcontinuous.

Site Characterization 6-7

Table 64. Guidelines for Assessing Chemical and Physical Hazards

HAZARD

Inhalation 01---GUIDELINE

TtV

TtV'lWA

TtV-sTEL

TtV-e

PEL

REL

IDLH

Threshold Umit Value

Threshotd limit Value­Ttme-Weighted Average

Threshold Umit Value­Short-1erm ExposureLimit

Threshold Umit Value­Ceiling

Permissible Exposurelimit

RecommendedExposure Limit

Immediately Dangerousto ute or Health

EXPlANATION

One of three categories of chemical exposure levels. defined asfollows:

The time-weighted average concentration for a normal 8-hourworkday and a 4lHlour _ week. to which nearly all wort<eramay be repeatedly exposed without adverse effect. Should beused as ., exposure guide rather than an absolute threshokl.

A 15-minute time-weighted average exposure that should not beexceeded at 8ITV time during the work day.

The concentration that shookJ not be exceeded BYen

instantaneously.

Time-weighted average and ceiling concentrations similar to (endin many cases derived from) the threshold limit values published in1968.Time-weighted averages and ceiling concentrations based onNIOSH evaluations.

The maximum level from which • WOf1cer could escape withoutany escape-impairing symptoms or -rv irreversible heatth effects.b

SOURCESFORVAWESO

ACGIH

ACGIH

ACGIH

OSHA

NIOSH

NIOSH

DwmeI -.orp- Designation Hsk.in'·don 01 c:hemI-_through_'"_contactDermal Irritation

The designation "skin" in the ACGIH. OSHA. and NIOSHreferenceS" indicates that a substance may be readily absorbedthrough the intact skin; however. it is not a threshold lor aafeexposure. Direct contact with 8 substance designated "skin"should be lIIIOided.Many!RJbstances irritate the skin. ConSult standard .efeterlC8S.

ACGIHIOSHAINIOSH

C.cinogens Ttv

PEL

REL

TtV

PEL

REL

Threshold Limit Value

Permissible ExposureLimit

RecommendedExposure Limit

Threshold Umit Value

Permissible ExposureUmit

ReconvnendedExposure Umit

Some carcinogens have an assigned nv.OSHA has individual standards for some specific carcinogens.

NIOSH makes recommendations regarding exposures tocarcinogens.

Sound pressure ~Is and durations of exposure that representconditions to which it is believed that nearly all workers may berepeatedly exposed without an adverse effect on their ability tohear ald understand normal speech.

Umits for acceptable noise exposure.

Limits for acceptable noise exposure.

ACGIHOSHA

NIOSH

ACGIH

OSHA

NIOSH

IonizingRadiation

Maximum permissible body burden and maximum permissible concentrations of radionuclides in air end in NCRPwater.

PEL Permissible ExposureUmit

Dose in rems per calendar quarter. OSHA

The ignition temperature or autoignition temperature isthe minimum temperature required to initiate or causeself-sustained combustion without an ignition source.

When evaluating the fire or explosion potential at 8 haz­ardous waste site.. all eqUipment used should be intrinsi­cally safe or explosion-proof. Where flammable orexplosive atmospheres are detected. ventilation maydilute the mixture to below the LEULFL However. ventila­tion is generally not recommended if concentrationsexceed the UFUUEL.. since the mixture will pass throughthe flammable/explosive renge 8$ it is diluted. Note thatcombustible gas indicator readings may not be accuratewhen oxygen concentrations are less then 19.5 percent.

Hazardous Substance InformationFormInformation on the chemical. physical. and toxicologicproperties of each compound known or expected to occuron site should be recorded on a Hazardous SubstanceInformation Form (see Appendix CI. Response personnelwill then have the necessary health and safety informa­tion in one place. and new personnel can be quicklybriefed. As many reference sources 8$ possible ahould beused to fill out the sheets because the information mayvary from one source to another. Materiel Safety DateSheets provided by chemical menufacture", ere onesource for this infonnation.

6-8 Site Characterization

Table 8-4. (cont.l

HAZARD

&p!Mion

GUIDEUNE

UEL Upper Explosive Limit

The minirntm COIMblbation of vapor in., below which propaga­tion of • tWne will not occur in the preset tee of WI ignition eource.The maximum COIlC&llbation of. wspor in air ebcMe which prop.&­II"tion oIa ftame will _ ClCQJr in "'" ..._ ... 01 .. ignition-.....

SOURCESFORVAWESO--

FIlIsh point The lowest _ature .. which "'" _ 01 a combustible liquid Nfl'll.can be made to ignite nlOiili8l,taily in air.

0S0urces:ACGIH. 1984-85. Threshold Urnit Val.... for 0>emicaI SUbsl8l .... snd Physical Agents in the Workplace _.nen. snd Biologic"Exposure Indices with Intended Changes for 1985-86. _ Co"'....... 01 Gc.oe".,..."Ita/ IndustriaIll';gie"ists. Cindrw>ali. Ohio.NIOSH. Centers for Disease Control. 1983. NIOSH Recommendations for Occupatione/ Heelths_Mo<bidity snd Morterrtyweekly Repott Supplement. IA:>I. 32. No. 15. 0Ctcber 7. 1983.

NIOSH. 1985. _ Guide te Chemical Hazards. Nstionallnstitute for Occupational Ssfety snd HeeIth. Cindrw>ali. Ohio.NCRP. Basic Rediotion Protection Criteria. NCRP Repo<t No. 39. Notional Counal on Rediotion Protection snd~__ingten. D.C.NCRP. Maximum _ssillle Body IIunlens snd Maximum l'8tmissillle COO.... ,•• tioo'" of RecflCll1UClidea in Ai< snd _ for Occupatione/Expoau.... NCRP Repo<t No. 22. Nations! Counal on Recflstion Protection snd Measurements. Wahingten. D.C.NFPA. 1985. Fire Protection Guide on Hazanloua Materials. Eighth Edition. Notional Fire P1ot&<:tioo1 Aaaocistion. Boaten, _

OSHA. 29 CFR Part 1910. (OSHA stand.rds .. 1eg.1Iy binding.l

"Other sources "'"'" &lightly cfilferent definitions of IDLH laee IOLH C"nce"••tkMa in this chaPter).

MonhoringBecause site activities 8t1d weather conditions change, enongoing air monitoring program should be implementedafter characterization has detennined that the site is safefor the commencement of operations.

The ongoing monitoring of 81mOSpheric chemical hazardsshould be conducted using a combination of stationarysampling equipment. personnel monitoring devices, 8t1dperiodic area monitoring with direc1-feading instruments(see Chapter 7, Air Monitoring). Data obtained during off­site 8t1d onsite surveys can be used to develop a plan thatdetails the pmcedures to be used for monitoring ambientconcrrtiona during cleanup operations. Where necessary,routes of exposure other than inhalation should be moni·tored. For example, skin swipe 1IlStS may be used todetennine the effectiveness of personal proteetive cloth­ing (see Chapter 10. DectmtaminatkJnl. Depending on thephysical properties 8t1d toxicity of the onaite materials.community exposures resulting from hazardous wastesite operations may need to be assessed [51.

Monitoring also includes continual evaluation of anychanges in site conditions or work activities that couldaffect WO<1<er safety. When a significant change occurs,the hazards should be reassessed. Some indicators of theneed for reassessment are:

• Commencement of a new work pha.... such as thestart of drum sampling.

• Change in job tasks during a work phaS&

• Change of season.

• Change in weather.

• Change in ambient levels of contaminants.

References1. u.s. EPA. 1984. Characterization of Hazardous Wasta

Sites-A Methods Manual: Volume II. Awilable Sam­pling Methods. Second edition. EPA 6OO/~76.

2. ACGIH. 1984-85. Tlveshokllinit Values for ChemicalSubstances and Physical Agents in the WorkplaceEnvironment and Biological Exposure IncfIC8S withIntended Changes for 1985-86. American CooIlf,Iei_""lC8:eof Gowrnmental Industrial Hygienists. Cincinnati, OH.

3. NIOSH. 1985. Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards.National Institute for Oc:cupational Safety and Health.Cincinnati. OH.

4. ANSI. 1980. Practices for Respiratory FI ol8Ction. ANSIZ88.2-1980. American National Standards InstituIe.1430 Broadway, New'tbrk. NY 10018.

5. u.s. Department of Health and Human Services. 1984.A System for Prewntion. Assessment and Control ofExposures 8t1d Health Effecls from Hazardous Sites(5.P.A.C.E. for Health). u.s. Department of Health 8IldHuman Services. Public Health Service. Center forDisease Control. Atlanta. GA.

7. Air Monitoring

D1.-t-RMdlng 1..-.......,.

Direct....ading instruments were dlMlloped as aarly wam­ing devicas for use in industrial settings, where a leak oran accident could release a high concentration of aknown chemical into the ambient atmosphere. lilday,

Measuring InstrumentsThe purpose of air monitoring is to identify and quantifyairborne contaminants in order to determine the level of_er protection needed. Initial screening for identifica·tion is often qualitative, i.e., the contaminant. or the classto which it belongs, is demonstrated to be present butthe determination of its concentration (quantification)must await subsequent testing. Two principal approachesare ava~able for identifying and/or quantifying airbornecontaminants:

• The onsite use of direct....ading instruments.

• Laboratory analysis of air samples obtained by gassampling bag, filter. sorbent. or wet-contaminant col­lection methods.

Airborne contaminants can present a significant threat toworker health and safety. Thus, identification and quan­tification of these contaminants through air monitoring isan essential com_t of a health and safety program ata hazardous waste site. Reliable measurements of air­borne contaminants are useful for:

• Selecting personal protective equipment.

• Delineating areas where protection is needed.

• Assessing the potential health effects of exposure.

• Determining the need for specific medical monitoring.

This chapter delineates the factors to consider when con­ducting air monitoring at a hazardous waste site. Itpresents strategies for assessing airborne contaminationat hazardous waste sites and describes instruments andmethods for measuring exposures.

Contents

Introduction 7-1

Measuring Instr'ments 7-1Direct-Reading Instruments 7-1Laboratory Analysis 7-3

Site Monitoring 7-4Monitoring for IDLH and OtherDangerous Conditions 7-5General Onsite Monitoring 7-5Perimetsr Monitoring 7-6Periodic Monitoring 7-6

Pltrsonal Monitoring 7-6

variables of Hazardous Waste Site Exposure

References 7-7

Introduction

7-6

some direct....ading instruments can detect contaminantsin concentrationS down to one part contaminant per mil­lion parts of air (ppm), although quantitative data are diffi­cult to obtain when multiple contaminants are present.Unlike air sampling devi<:as, which are used to collectsamples for subsequent analysis in a laboratory, direct­reading instruments provide information at the time ofsampling. enabling rapid decision-making.

Direct....ading instruments may be used to rapidly detectflammable or explosive atmospheres. oxygen deficiency.certain gases and vapors, and ionizing radiation. They arethe primary tools of initial site characterization. The infor­mation providad by direct....ading instruments can beused to institute appropriate protective measures (ag.,personal protective equipment. evacuation!. to determinethe most appropriate equipment for further monitoring,and to develop optimum sampling and analytical pro­toc;ols.

All direct....ading instruments have inherent constraints intheir ability to detect hazards:

• They usually detect and/or measure only specificclasses of chemicals.

• Generally. they are not designed to measure and/ordetect airborne concentrations below 1 ppm.

• Many of the direct....ading instruments that havebeen designed to detect one particular substancealso detect other substances (interference) and. con­sequently. may give false readings.

lt is imperative that direct....ading instruments be oper­ated. and their data interpreted. by qualified individualswho are thoroughly familiar with the particular device'soperating principles and limitations and who haveobtained the devica's latest operating instructions andcalibration curves. At hazardous waste sites, where...known and multiple contaminants are the rule ratharthan the exception. instrument readings should be inter­p<eted conservatively. The following guidelines may facili­tate accurate recording and interpretation:

• Calibrate instruments according to the manufac­turer's instructions before and after lMlry use.

• Develop chemical response curves if these are notprovidad by the instrument manufacturer.

• Remember that the instrument's readings havelimited value where contaminants are unknown.When recording readings of unknown contaminants,report them as "needle deflection" or "positiveinstrument responseu rather then specific concentra­tions ro..... ppm). Conduct additional monitoring at anylocation where a positive response occurs.

• A reading of zero should be reportad as "no instru­ment response" rather than •'clean" because quanti­ties of chemicals may be present that are notdetectable by the instrument.

• The survey should be repeatad with several detectionsystems to maximize the number of chemicalsdetectad.

Tables 7-1 and 7-2 list several direct....ading instrumantsand the conditions and/or substances they measure. Theflame ionization detector IFID) and tha photoionization

7-2 Air Monitoring

1iIbIe 7-1. Some Direct-Reading Instruments to< General Surwy

HAZARD DETECOON EASE OF GENERA1. CARE TYPICAlINSTRUMENT MONIlOREO APPlICATION METHOD UMnJl.TIONS OPEfl,O;I1()N AND MAINTENANCE OPERATING TIMES

Combuo1IbIe Combustible Measures the A 1iJament. Accuracy de- Effectiw lle<:harge '" replece Cen be used for as-- gases_ COfteeiibation usually pends. in part. use Ie- bette<y. long as the bette<yICGlI - of a com- medeof on the lfrfference qui"", that Calibrate immedi- ...... "'forthe

bustible gas platinum. is benll'8en the operator etely before use. f8COI 'Wi.Kted in-or Yapor. heated by cam>retion _ unde<stand _between

bumingthe sampling the-.<· calibrations.combust· temperatures- ing princi· _isJess.ibl'e g3S or SensitMty is a

pies _

vapor. The function of the procedures-b:rease in cfffferences inheat is the chemK:almeasured. _ physical

propertiesbetween the cal·ibration gas _

the gas beingsampled.

The filament canbe damaged bycertain c0m-

pounds such asSIlicones.hafKles.tetraethyl lead._ oxygen.

enrichedatrnosp/leres.

Does not provKle• valid readingunder oxygen.deficM!nt conditions.

FIama ionization Many 1n ..,,""V Gases_ Does not detect Requires lle<:harge '" replaca 8 houB; 3 houBDetector IFIDI organic mode. de- vaporsare inorganic gases experience bette<y. with strip chart__

gases _teets the ionized in. end vapors. Of to interpret Monitor fuel _10< recorde<.

Chromatography vapors. total concen- Ilame. "- """",synthetics. data COf'- combustion .rOption trations of current is SensitMty rectIy. aspe- supply gauges.

many O<ganic produced in depends on the ciaI1y in thePerform routinegases_ propoc Dot I compound. GCmode.

_In to the num- Specificmaintenance ..

Should not be described in thegas chroma- bar of car· usedat-.· identifica· manual.tography bon atOmS tures ktss than tion Ie-lGCI mode. present. 40"1' 14"C1. quires cali- Check for leeks.identif... _

Difficu~ to abso- brationmeasures

Iute/y identify with theepaciflC specifK:compounds. compounds.

analyta ofIn survey High concan,,", interest.mode. all the !ions of .contam-

organic com- inants or

pounds are oxygen_ldentionized _ atmospheres

detected at require system

tIleeame modification._In GC In eurvey mode.mode" volatile readings can bespecies are only reportedseparated. relatiw to the

calibrationetandard used.

Gamma IIedIa- Gamma Environmen- Scintillation Does not Extremely Ml,ISt be calibrated Cen be used for astionSu<wy radiation. tBl nldiation detecto<. maasurealpha aasytoop- ennualty at • lpecial- long as the bettary-, monitor. or beta radiation. arata, but ized facility. lasts. '" for the

requires recornrrMM ided in-experience --to int8f'P1'8t calibrations.data. lIug- _is lase.gad. goodin field use.

Air Monitoring 7-3

1ilbIe 7-1. (COl1t.l

HAZARD OETECTlON EASE OF GENERAL CARE TYPICALINSTRUMENT MONI1OREO API'I.JCATION METHOD UMITATIONS OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OPERATING TIMES- Many- Me_ Possesdif- In _ field, must Requires ~ specified by_llRl ond_ conc. i b • ti<:w1 _Ire- ...-repeate<t personnel manufacturer.Ipletro- of many quencies of _to with exten--.oton-. _ond IR through achieve reliable siw experi-

veponineir. _-..pIe. - ence in IR

Designed to The Ire- Requires spectropho-

quentify one- quencies 11s-.ott AC tometry.

or two- odsorbed _.component ore specific

Not IIpl>«MlCI !ofmixtures. !ofeoch

compound. we in • poten-tiaDy flammableor uplosiveatmosphefe.

II,terfelltllC8 bywater vapor and_dioxide.

Certain vaporsond high mois-ture may 8ttllCkthe instrument'soptics. whichmust then bereplaced.

lIb....ttuVl Many 1letec1s_ Ionims Does not detect Effectiw Recharge or replace 10 hours; 5 hours""'tel: IbadUh _nicond cone.f1b. molecules methane. use re- battery. with strip chartae-lPlDI eome inor- tiona of mony using UV Does not detect quires that Regularly clean lamp recorder.

genic- _leond rBCflation; • compound if_ opera-

window.ond_ 801M inor- produces • _ probe used tor undef-

Regularly clean andganic- ....-ltthat """.- stand _

ond VIIpOrL is propor~ operating maintain the..-gy Iawl tl\an instrument andSoma idan!i. tional to _ _ compound', principles_on of

numberol and proce- aceassories.ionization

compounds ions. potential. dures. andis posaible if becompe-more then Rasponse may tent inone probe is change when calibrating.ueed. gases are mixed. reading,

Other wttege and inter-sources may prating theinterfere with instrument.measu_Readings canonly be reportedrelatiwtothecalibrationstandard used.Rasponse iseffected by highhumidity.

det8C1or /PIC) /Me Tabla 7-11 "'" commonly ueed e1 haz·wdous _ 8ites.~• ..,.,.., of U-a device. maynot detect ..,.,.., particularly mxic egen1S. including hydro­gen cyenide end hydrogen euffide. Thus. 1Mse cIevicesmust be IUJlI)Iemented with other methods of detection.

Lrh.WM, AnlI/y8la

Direct-f8llding P8fSOI\8I monitors are _noble for only ef8w epecific MIbetance8 end ere rrrely MIlSitiw enough10 me-... the minute /i.e., per1ll of contaminant per bil­lion par1ll of elr) quantities of contaminantr which may,..... lheIeas,~ heelth chenges. Thus 10 detect rele-

tively Iow-level concentrlltions of contrminents. long-termor "full-shift" personal air semples must be enelyzed in aIabore1ory. Full-shift air semples for some chemicals maybe collected with passive dosimeters, or by meens of epump which draws air through a filter or sorbent. Teble7-3 lists some sempling end enelylical techniquas used athazardous waste sites.

Selection of the appropr;a1e sempling medie largelydepends on the physical e1e1e of the contaminents. Forexample, chemicals ruch as PCBs /polychlorinatedbiphenyls) end PNAs (polynuclear arome1ic hydrocarbons'occur as both vapors and particule1a-bound contemi­nantr. A duel-media rystem is needed to meesure both

7-4 Air Monitoring

1lIbIe 7-2. Some Direct-Reading InstNments for Specific SuM!'(

INSTRUMENTHAZARD DETECTION EASE OF GENERAL CARE TYPICAlMONITORED APPLICATION METHOD UMITATIONS OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OPEfUmNG TIMES

DIrect RII ~laSli

CuIor.'Nb1e_1IIbe Specificgasesond- Measures

COUCEtlib..tions ofopecificgasesond-

The~The_

reacts with COl M::8i Ib Btionthe ind"1C8tOr of the _chemical in ~the lube. pro- ""'Y vwycIucing • stain omong differ­whose Iongth em 1IllW1Ufoc-or color turers' tubes.

c:honge is Mony oimllorproponio,," III chemicalsthecom- ..-..pound'.COl teeli lba tion. Greatest

sources ofenor ....0) how the

--""judges stain'.ond-point. ond121 the tube'.Iimitlld0CCllr8CY­-byhigh lunid"ny.

Minimal

--""_ngondexpertisenlqUirecl.

Do not use • preyi­ousIy~tube

ewen if the incflC8tOrchemical is notstai_.Check pump lorINks beloro ond_......ReIriget ste prior IIIuse to maintain sheffito of obout 2 years.

Check oxpirotiondate of tubes.CoIibrote pump-.meotloostquorte<ty._ rough hondIingwhich ""'Y __

c:honneling.

Oxygen (0,). Measures the Uses .. oIec­pel'ctNltage of troehemieBIOs in llir. sensor to

moasurethe

poniaI -­...... ofO'in1he.rMdCOIMIrtlIthotreading to 01:COhC6i i b aticJi L

Must be EffectMtcalibrated prior use ......10 use to com- 4Jires thatpensote lor the ___

oItitude ond lD< under-barometric stand thepressure. -.mngCenoin gases. principlesespeciaRy oxi- onddon1s such .. pn>cedures._con_read-ings. eart>ondioxide lCO,)poisons thedolec1or con.

Reploce dolec1orcon occordmg lDmonuIacture<'.~

Rechorge or repIocebotleriespriorlDoxpirotion 01 theopecifiod inteMlI.

If the 8mbient llir ismore ..... 0.5'"CO. replace orrejuwnote !he 0,dolec1or confrequently.

8 lD 12 hours.

forms of these oubstances. The voIlltJle component is coI­Iec:tlld on a eorld edsorbent end the nonvoIlltJle compo­nent is collected on a filter. More then two dozenduel-fl'llldia eampling techniques hove been 8IIlIIueted byNIOSHIUI.

A major disadvantage of 1ong-18nn air monitoring is thetime required to obtain data. The time leg between eam­piing end obtaining the ...lysis results may be a matterof hours. if .. onsi1Il Iaboro1ory is 8IIlI~abl.. or days._Ics, -. months, if a remote Ieboro1ory is 1rMlIwd.Thia can be a significant problem if the aituation requiresImmecfI81ll decisions COIlC8ming worker safety. Also, bythe time oamplea .. returned from a remote Iaboro1ory,the hazardous waste site cleanup may hove progressed to• clifferent atage or to a location a1 which cflfferent con­taminants or cflfferent concentrations may exist. CarefulplaMing end/or the use of a mobile Iaboro1ory on ailemay alleviate these problems.

Mobile Iabotaw.ies may be brought on site to classifyhazardous W88l8a for cfos_l. A mob~e labot atell '( isgeneraOy a traner truck the1 houeea ...lytical instrumentsc:apable of rapidly classifying conl8minants by a variety of

techniques. 1YPica1 instruments include gas chr0mato­graphs. 8peCbof!uooorneters. and infrared 8peCtIOphotom­alers. When not in use in the mobile Iabora1ory, thesedevices c.on be noIocated to fixed-base fllalities. OnsiteIaboro1ory fllalitiea arid prectices should meet starldardsof good Iabora1ory safety.

Usually. a few of the field eamples collected era analyzedon site to provide rapid astima1ea of the COIlCeilbation ofairborne CUIl1aminants. These data can be used to deter·mine the Initial level of worker personal protection necas­ear'( to mocflfy field eampling pn>cadurea end to guide thefixed-base Iaboro1ory ...lysis. If necessary. oampleaIICf8tlned In the mobtle Ieboro1ory can be subsequentlyreanalyzed in lIOPhistieated fixed-base laboratories. Themobile Iabora1ory also provides storage space, countertopataging oreea for industrial hygiene equipment. arid facili·ties for recharging ..If-contained breathing _ratus.Site MonitoringPriorities for air monitoring should be based on the infor­mation gathered during initial site characterization (see

Air Monitoring 7-5

1lobIe 7-3. Some Sample Collection and Analytical Methods

SU8STANCE

AnIons:BromideChloride­N_

-~IklIIoteAIphatIc­

• '1lltos_.0I1IsnIcsHltlw........-..I'C8sPMdcldel

COUECTlON DEV1CE"

Prewashed silica gel tube

Silica gel

MCEFMCEF

~Itube

ThennosorbIN

MCEFGF filte< end ftorisil tube

13-rnm GF fiIte< ondChromosorb 102 1iJbe

ANAlYTICAL METHO()b

Ion Chromatography

GC/NPDPCM

ICf'.AESGCIMS

GCITEAGrr.nmetric

GC-ECD

GCIMS

TYPICAL DETECTION UMITOF ANALYTICINSTRUMENT f,og)

1055

10201010

l00c

0.510

0.01

0.001

0.05

• MCEF • mixed ceI1ulose ester filter.GF • glass fiber fiIte<.

• GCINPD • gao Chromatography end nitrogen/phosphorull detector. PCM = phase contrast microscopy; ICp·AES = inductivelycoupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry: GM/MS - gas chromatography and mass spectrometry; GCITEA = gas chroma­IOgraphy using a thennel anergy ....Iyzer; GC-ECD - gos Chrometography using en electrical conduetMty detector.

c: Units in fibers per mma of filter (Method No. 7400 from the N10SH Manual of Analytical Methods. 3n:I edition).

Chapter 61. This information serves as the basis forselecting the appropriate monitoring equipment and per­sonal ptol8Ctive equipment IPPEI to use when conductingsite monitoring. Depending on sits conditions and projectgoals, four C8t8gOries of site monitoring may be neces­88ry: monitoring for IDLH and other dangerous condi­tions, general onsite monitoring, perimeter monitoring,and periodic monitoring.

MOllltew-lI11 for IDLH .... au- DaI_.... CondltIona

As a first step. air monitoring should be conducted toidentify any IDLH and other dangerous conditions, suchas flammabla or explosive atmospheres, OXVl/elHleficiemenvironments, and highly toxic levels of airborne c0n­

taminants. Dirsct-f8eding monitoring instruments will 1>0<­

rnslly include combustible gas indicators. oxygen meters.colorimetric indicator tubes, and organic vapor monitors.Other monitoring instruments may be necessary based onthe initial site characterization. When time permits. air88mples should be collected for laboratory analysis.Extreme caution should be exercised in continuing a sitesurvey when atmospheric hazards ara indicated. Monitor­ing personnel should be aware that conditions can sud·denly change from nonhazardous to hazardous.

Acutely hazardous concentrations of chemicals may per­sist in confined and Iow-lying spaces for long periods oftime. Look for sny natural or artificial barriers. such ashills, tall buildings. or tanka, behind which air might bestill, allowing concentrations to build up. Examine anyconfined spaces such as cargo holds. mine shafts, atlas.storage tanks, box cars. buildings, bulk tanks. and sumpsWhere chamical exposures capable of causing acute

health effects are likely to accumulate. Low-lying areas,such as hollows and trenches. are also suspect. Monitorthese spaces for IDLH and other dangerous conditions.Also consider whether the suspected contaminants arelighter or heavier than air. Then, based on the type ofcontaminants present. consider sampling on hilltops,under any cover or canopy where workers might work orcongregate. and in trenches and low-lying areas.

In open spaces. toxic materials tend to be emitted intothe atmosphere, trsnsponed away !tom the source, anddispersed. Thus acutely hazardous conditions are notlikely to persist in open spaces for extended periods oftime unless there is a very large (and hence. readily iden­tifiable) source. such as an overturned tankcar. Openspaces are therefore generally given a lower monitoringpriority.

0_1 Onalte Monitoring

Air sampling should be conducted using a variety ofmedia to identify the major classes of airborne con·taminants and their concentrations. The following sam­pling pattern can be used as a guideline. First. aftervisually identifying the sources of possible generation,collect air samples downwind from the designated sourcealong the axis of the wind direction. Work upwind, untilreaching or getting as close as possible to the source.Level B protection (see Table 8-6 in Chapter 8) should beworn during this initial sampling. Levels of protection forsubsequent 88mpling should be based upon the resultsobtained and the potential for an unexpected release ofchemicals.

7-6 Air Monitoring

After reaching _ source, or finding _ highest concen­tration, sample cross-axis of _ wind direction to deter­mine _ degree of dispersion. Smoke plumes. or plumesof instrument-detectable eirborne substances. may bereleesed as an aid in this assessment. 10 ensure that-.. is no background interference and that _ detectedsubstance!s) ere originating at _ identified source. alsocollect air samples upwind of _ source.

I'wImem Monitoring

Rxed-loc8tion monitoring at _ "fenceline" or perimeter,where personal protective equipment is no longerlllqUired, measures contaminant migration ew"'! from _site end enables _ Site Safety Officer to evaluate _integrity of _ site's clean areas. Since _ fixed-loc8tionsamples may reflect exposures either upwind or down­wind from _ site. wind speed end direction d8t8 areneeded to interpret _ sample results.

'-rlcNIIc Monitoring

Site concfrtions end thus etmospheric chemical conditionsmay change following _ initial charaeteriz8tion. For thisreason. monitoring should be repeated periodically. espa­cillily when:

• Work begins on a different portion of _ site.

• Different contaminants are being handled.

• A markedly different type of operation is initiatedle.g.• barrel opening as opposed to exploratory welldrilling).

• Workers are handling leaking drums or working inareas with obvious liquid contamination (e.g.• a spillor lagoon).

Personal MonitoringThe selective monitoring of high-risk workers. i.e.. thosewho ere closest to _ source of contaminant generation.is highly recommended. This approach is based on _r8tionale that _ probabtlity of significant exposurevaries directly with distance from _ source. If workersclosest to _ source are not significantly exposed. _nall other workers ere. presumably, also not significantlyexposed and probably do not need to be monitored.

Since occupational exposures are linked closely withactive meterial handling. personal air sampling should notbe necessary until sita mitigation has begun. f'ersonalmonitoring samples should be collected in _ breathingzone and. if workers are wearing respiratory protectiveequipment, outside _ fecepiece. These samples repre­sent _ actual inhaletion exposure of workers who arenot wearing respiratory protection and _ potentialexposure of workers who are wearing respirators. It isbest to use pumps that automatically maintain a constantflow rete to collect samples. since it is difficult to observeand adjust pumps while wearing gloves. respirators. andother personal protective equipment. Pumps should beprotected with disposable coverings. such as small plasticbags. to make decontamination procedures easier.

f'ersonal monitoring may require _ use of a variety ofsampling media. Unfortunately, single workers cannot

carry multiple sampling media because of _ addedstrain and because it is not usually possible to draw airthrough different sampling media using a single portable.battery-operated pump. Consequently. several d"'fs maybe required to measure the exposure of a specificindividual using each of the media [3.4). Alternatively. ifworkers are in teams. 8 different monitoring device can beassigned to each team member. Another method is toplace multiple sampling devices on pieces of heavy equip­ment. While these are not personal samples. they can becollected very close to the breathing zone of the heavyequipment operator and thus would be reasonablyrepresentative of personal exposure. These multimediasamples can yield as much information as several per­sonal samples IS).

When considering employee monitoring. procedures andprotocols found in OSHA's Industrial Hygiene TechnicalManual m"'! be useful (6).

Variables of HazardOUS Waste SheExposureComplex. multisubstance environments such as thoseassociated with hazardous waste sites pose significantchallenges to accurately and safely assessing airbornecontaminants. Several independent and uncontrollablevariables. most notably temperature and weather condi­tions. can affect airborne concentrations. These factorsmust be considered when developing an air monitoringprogram and when analyzing data. Some demonstratedvariables include:

• Temperature. An increase in temperature increases_ vapor pressure of most chemicals.

• Windspeed. An increase in wind speed can affectvapor concentrations near a free-standing rlqUid sur­face. Dusts and particulate-bound contaminants arealso affected.

• Rainfall. Water from rainfall can essentially cap orplug vapor emission routes from open or closed c0n­

tainers. saturated soil. or lagoons. thereby reducingairborne emissions of cenain substances.

• Moisture. Dusts. including finely divided hazardoussolids. are highly sensitive to moisture content.This moisture content can vary significantly withrespect to location and time and can also affectthe accuracy of many sampling results.

• Vapor emissions. The physical displacement ofsaturated vapors can produce short-term. rela­tively high vapor concentrations. Continuingevaporation andlor diffusion may produce Iong­term low vapor concentrations and may involvelarge areas.

• Work activities. Work activities often require themechanical disturbance of contaminatedmaterials, which m"'! change the concentrationand composition of airborne contaminants.

References1. Hill, RH. and J.E. Arnold. 1979. A personal air sampler

for pesticides. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 8:621-28.

2. NIOSH. 1984. Manual of Analytical Methods, 41h ed.National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.Cincinnati, OH.

3. Costello. RJ. 1983. us. Environmental ProtectionAgency Triangle Chemical Site. Bridge City, lilxas.NIOSH Health Hazard Evaluations DeterminationReport HETA 83-417·1357. pp. 6-7.

4. Costello. RJ. and J. Melius. 1981. lechnicalAssistance Determination Report. Chemical Control,Elizabeth, New Jersey, TA 80-77. National Institute forOccupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH.pp. 20-22.

5. Costello. RJ.; B. Froenberg; and J. Melius. 1981.Health Hazard Evaluation Determination Report. RollinsEnvironmental Services, Baton Rouge. lDuisiana, HE81-37. National Institute for Occupational Safety andHealth, Cincinnati, OH.

6. OSHA. March 30, 1984. Industrial Hygiene lechnicalManual. OSHA Instruction Cpl 2-2.20A.

Air Monitoring 7-7

8. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Introduction 8-1

Contents

'Tho "'"" PPE is used ... this manual to refer to both personalJlfQtBCtive dothing ond oquipment.

Heat Stress and Other Physiological Factors 8-20Monitoring 8-20PTevention 8-21Other Factors 8-21

References 8-23

Program R_ and E..luatIon

The PPE program should be reviewed at least annually.Elements which should be considered in the reviewincfude:

• A survey of each site to ensure compliance withregulations applicable to the specific site inYoIvad.

• The number of person-hours that workers wearvarious protective ensembles.

• Accident and illness experience.

• Levels of exposure.

• Adequacy of equipment selection.

• Adequacy of the operational guidelines.

Developing a PPE ProgramA written PPE program should be established for work atall hazardous waste sites. (OSHA requires a written pr0­

gram for selection and use of respirators (29 CFR Part1910.1341.) Some of the relevant regulations, listed inTable 8-1, are cited throughout the text. The word "shall"is used only when the procedure is mandated by law.

The two basic objectives of any PPE program should beto protect the wearer from safety and health hazards. andto prevent injury to the wearer from incorrect use and/ormaHunction of the PPE. 10 accomplish thesa goals. acomprehensive PPE progrem should include hazard iden­tifieation; medical monitoring; environmental suMlillance;selection, use, maintenance. and decontamination of PPE;and training. These subjects are discussed in this chaptarand in Chepters 2, 4, 5, 6, 7. and 10.

The written PPE program should include policy state­ments, procedures, and guidelines. Copies should bemade available to all employees, and a reference copyshould be available at each work site. Technical data onequipment. maintenance manuals, relevant regulations,and other essential information should also be madeavailable.

Use of PPE is reqUired by Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration (OSHA) regulations in 29 CFR Part 1910(see Table 8-1) and reinforced by u.s. Environmental Pr0­tection Agency (EPA) regulations in 40 CFR Part 300which include requiraments for all private contractorsworking on Superfund sites to conform to applicableOSHA provisions and any other faderal or state safetyrequirements deemed necessary by the lead agency over­seeing the activities.

No single combination of protective equipment and cloth­ing is capable of protecting against all hazards. Thus PPEshould be used in conjunction with other protectivemethods. The use of PPE can itse" create significantworker hazards, such as heat stress, physical and psycho­logical stress. and impaired vision. mobility, and commu­nieation. In general, the greater the level of PPEprotection, the greater are the associated risks. For anygiven situation, equipment and clothing should beselected that provide an adequate level of protection.Over-protection as well as under-protection can be haz­ardous and should be avoided.

8-5

8-1

8-2

8-168-168-17

8-188-18

8-18

Developing a PPE Program 8-1Program Review and Evaluation

Selection of Respiratory EquipmentProtection Factor 8-4Se"-eontained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)Supplied-Air Respirators lSARsl 8-6Combination SCBAISAR 8-6Air-Purifying Respirators 8-7

Selection of Protective Clothing and Accessories 8-8Selection of Chemical-Protective Clothing lCPCI 8-8Permeation and Degradation 8-8Heat Transfer Characteristics 8-13Other Considerations 8-13Special Conditions 8-13

Selection of Ensembles 8-13Level of Protection 8-13

PPE Use 8-14Training 8-15Work Mission DurationPersonal Use FactorsDonning an EnsembleRespirator Fit Testing

.In-Use MonitoringDoffing an EnsembleClothing Reuse 8-18Inspection 8-19Storage 8-19Maintenance 8-20

IntroductionAnyone entering a hazardous waste site must be pr0­tected against potential hazards. The purpose of persona'protective clothing and equipment (PPEI' is to shield orisolate individuals from the chemical, physical, and bio­logic hazards that may be encountered at a hazardouswaste site. Careful selection and use of adequate PPEshould protect the respiratory system, skin, eyes, face.hands, feet. head, body, and hearing. This chapterdescribes the various types of PPE that are appropriatefor use at hazardous waste sites, and provides guidancein their selection and use. The final section discussesheat stress and other key physiological factors that mustbe considered in connection with PPE use.

8-2 Personal Protective Equipment

Table 8-1. OSHA Standards for Use of PPE

TYPE OF PROTECTlON REGULATION SOURCE

29 CFR P8rt 1910.132

29 CFR P8rt 1910.1000

29 CFR Port 1910.1001-104529 CFR P8rt 1910.133la'29 CFR Port 1910.9529 CFR P8rt 1910.13429 CFR P8rt 1910.135

41 CFR P8rt 5G-204.7 General Requirements for I'lIrsonaIProtective Equipment.

41 CFR Port 5G-204.50. except for 1lJble 2-2. the -.n:e ofwhk:h is American National Standards Institute, 237_.OSHA Rulemaking.

ANSI 287.1-1968' Eye .,., Face Protection.

41 CFR Port 5G-204.10"" OSHA Rulemaking.

ANSI 288.2-1969' S",_rd .....ctice for RespiratorY Protection.ANSI 289.1-1969' safety Requirements for Industrial HeadProtection.

Foot 29 CFR P8rt 1910.136 ANSI 241.1·1961' Men', 5afety be Footwear.aectrlc8l ........._ 29 CFR Part 1910.137 ANSI 29.4-1968. Ventilation .,., safe Practices of Abrasiw_ Blasting Operations.

'American National Slllndards Institute CANSI), 1430 Broadway, New 'Ibrt. NY 10018. ANSI regularly updates its atandards. The ANSIamndards in this table ... those that OSHA odop1Bd in 1971. Since the ANSI _rds whk:h -.. then adopted had been set in1967-1969. those amndards, now required under OSHA. II\lI'f be leas atringent then the most nK:ent ANSI standards.

• Adequacy of decontamination. cleaning. inspection,maintenance. lind storage programs.

• Adequacy lind effectiveness of training lind fittingprograms.

• Coonlination with CMlr811 safety lind health programelements.

• The degree of fulfillment of program objectives.

• The adequacy of program records.

• Recommendations for program improvement lindmodification.

• Program costs.

The results of the program evaluation should be madeevailable to employees -..I presented to top managementso that program edaptations may be implemented.

Selection of Respiratory EquipmentRespiratory proteCtion is of primary importance sinceinhalation is one of the major routes of exposure to chem­ical toxicants. Respiratory po Oltn."ti"" devices lrespirators)consist of a facepiece connected to either en air source oran air-purifying device. Respirators with an air source arecalled atmosphere-supplying respirators lFogure 8-11 lindconsist of two typeS:

• Seff-containedIxeBthing apparatus fSCBAs} whichsupply air from a source carried by the user.

• Suppfied-air teSPirators tSARs} which supply airfrom a source located some distance IIW8V -..Iconnected to the user by an air-line hose.Supproedllir respirators are sometimes referred toas air-line respirators.

Air-purifying respirators (Figure 8-21, on the other hand.do not h.... a separate air source. Insteed. they utilizeambient air which is "purified" through a filteringelement prior to inhalation.

SCBAs. SARs. and air-purifying respirators are furtherdifferentiated by the type of air flow supproed to thefacepiece:

• Positive-pleSSUre respirstofS maintain a positive pres­sure in the facepiece during both itlhalation and exha·la1ion. The two main typeS of positive-pressure

respirators are pressure.-demand .-ld continuous flow.In pressul'lHlemand respirators. a pressure regulatorand a" exhalation valve on the mask maintain themask', positive pressure except during high breath­ing rates. " a leak develops in a pressure-demandrespirator. the regulator sends a continuous flow ofclean air into the facepiece. preventing per.ebation bycontaminated ambient air. Continuous-ftow respira·tors 6nc1uding some SARs and all powered air­purifying respirators [PAPRsIl send a continuousstream of air into the facepiece at all times. WithSARs. the continuous flow of air prevents infiltrationby ambient air, but uses the air supply much morerapidly than with pressure-demand respirators.flOwered air-purifying respirators (PAPRsI are oper­ated in a positive--pressure continuous-flow modeutilizing filtered ambient air. IHowever. at maximalbreathing rates. a negative pressure may be createdin the facepieee of a PAPRI

• Negative-pressure respiratolS draw air lI"Ito thefacepiece via the negative pressure created by userinhalation. The main dis.edvantage of negative­pressure respirators Is that if any leaks develop in thesystem 6.e.. a crack in the hose or an iII-fitting maskor facepiece). the user draws contaminated air intothe facepieee during inhalation.

When atmosphere-supplying respirators are used. onlythose operated itl the positi",,-pressure mode are recom·mended for work at hazardous _ste sites. Table 8-2 foststhe relati"" advantages and disadvantages of SCBAs.SARs. lind air-purifying respirators.

Different types of facepieces are available for use withthe various types of respirators. The types generally usedat hazardous weste sites are full facepieces lind ha"maslc.s.

• Full-facepiece masks cover the face from the heirlineto below the chin. They provide eye protection.

• Hsff masks cover the face from below the chin toover the nose and do not provide eye protection.

Federal regulations require the use of respirators that havebeen tested and approved by the Mine Safety and HealthAdministration IMSHA) and NIOSH. ltosting proceduresare described in 30 CFR Part 11. Approval numbers are

Personal Protective Equipment 8-3

1 I,

Emergency escape SCBA.hood type

Self-containedbreathing apparatus

(SCBAI,full facepiece

Supplied-air respirator, full facepiece

figure 8-1. 1YPeS of Atmosphere-Supplying ResPIrators.

//

Half-mask, facepiece­mounted cartridge. L~~-.r.

Full-facepiece,dual cartridge

Powered air-purifying respirator.half-mask

FUIl-facepiece.chin-mounted canister

Full-facepiece.hamess-mounted canister

figure 8-2. 1YPeS of Air-Purifying Respirators..

8-4 Personal Protective Equipment

'lillie 1-2. Reletiw AdvlIntllgeS ..cI Disadvllntages 01 Respiratofy ProtectiYll Equipment

TYPE OF RESPIRATOR

lmIOSPHERE.-uPPIYlNQ

~

...lhllll Ail olUll8ClIAl

PaeIth'Pa ...,ppl"ltt Me RNpImorIlIAIlI IoIoc CII1ed....... "Ip' llUil

~(J

AIr~"pIs.bINIinclucfIOQ pOn.eeI_-purifying ' .....i.toi.IPlU'RaIl

·_tho hitlMot _loblo _ 01poobiCtion -oain8t Iirbome cont8minIintsondllXYllO" dofic:iellc,.·_tho hitlMot _lobIo _ 01 pm­_____concrrtions.

• _longer _ periods Ihon In SCSA.

• &.0 -,. ond heavy lhon • SC8A.SAR equipment woigha _ Ihon 5 poundslor -..I 15 pounds if__ SCSA pm­_10__1.

• PIotocu Illeinst__--

• _ moboTrtr;

• Ughtor in woight Ihon In SC8A. GonoranywoighIs 2 pound. " kg) or _ loxcopt for-I.

DISADVANTAGES

• Bulky. heavy (up te 35 pounds).

• Frite air suppJy limits work duration.

• May impair rnowment in confined apaces.

• Not epproved for use in atmospheresimmediately dange«>us te ife or healthIIDLHI or in CIXYIlen-defic:ient atmospheresunless equipped with ., emergei tc, egressunit such as In oscape-<>n/y SCSA lhot '""provide irrmediate ernerget ICY respiratoryprotection in case of eir1nei failure.

• Impairs mobility.

• MSHAINIOSH certification Iimi1lI hoselength te 300 loot {90 meters!.

• Aa tho length 01 tho hose is incnlased. thominim....., epprt)'lteCl air flow may not bedol_ ot tho tocop;ece.

• Air line is vulnerable to damage. d1emicaIcontamination. ond degradation. Decon­taminotion 01 hoses moy be dilficuIL

• Worker must retrace steps to leave wortt....a.

• Requires supervisionlmonitoring of the eir supply line.

• Cannot be used in IOLH or oxygen-deficienatmospheres IIoss than 19.5 pon:ontoxygen at sea level).

• Limited duration 01 protection. May be herdte gauge safe operating time in fieldconditions.

• Only protects against specific chemicals.-ld up to specit"1C concentrations.

• Use requires monitoring of contaminantond OXygen levels.

• can only be used (1) against gas .00 vaporcontaminants with adequate warningpropert;es. or 121 for opec:ific gases orvapors prov;ded lhot tho _ is knownond a safety flIctor is applied or i1tho unithas In ESU lend-of-service-lile indK:otorI.

cleerly written on .n epproved NSpiratofy equipment;~, nat ell respimory equipment tllllt io marketed ioepproved. ~ocaRy, NIOSH publishes a liot. entitledNIOSH c.nHied EquiP""lnt LiIIt 01 all appruved respinltOnl..cI NSpimory compot .."ts I1L

P.-aonhctMThe level of jNol8Ction that can be pruyided by a NSpi18­1Dr II incflClltlld by the ..p/rItOr'a jNOl8\,'tion factor. Thisnumbet', wItIcIt io clelaill~nedecper'....... ,tsRy by me......­Ing~ ..I ancIlIlIhalatiun ¥8Iw leakage, incfiC8t81the Nletiw d1lleiltlC8 n COIlCItlbalicMa 01 MIbolaioc:ea_Ide ..cI1noIde tIla f8capleca that can be maintainedby the ..p/I8tur, For~ the jNolllCtlun factor furfuII-facepI_ a1r-purtfylng IWIpinltOnl II 10. This --.tIwcM ItlcaRy, that wurkani _ring tIlaoe ..p/11ItUI8Ihould be jNOl8>.'tad n _phi... _inlng chemicalsat COI_lbltJu.'11 that _ up 10 10 tIrnIa higher than the

appropriate limits. One source of protection factors forvarious types of atmosphere-supplying (SCBA and SAR)and air1lUrifying respirators can be found in AmericanNational Standards Institute (ANSI) standard ANSIZ88.2-1980.

At sites where the identity and concentration of chemi­cals in air are known. a respirator should be selected witha protection factor that is sufficiently high to ensure thatthe wearer will not be exposed to the chemicals abovethe applicable limits. These limits include the AmericanConference of Govemmental Industrial Hygienists·Threshold Umit Values (TLVsl. OSHA's PermissibleExposure Limits (PELsl, and the NIOSH RecommendedExposure Limits lRELsI (see Table 6-4 in Chapter 61.These fimits are designed te protect most workers whomay be exposed to chemicals day after day throughouttIleir working life. The OSHA PEls are legally enforceableexposure limits. end are the minimum limits of protectionthat must be met.

It should be remembered that the protection provided bya respirator can be compromised in several situations.most notably, (1) if a worker has a high breathing rate,(21 if the ambient temperature is high or low, or (31 if theworker has a poor facepiece-to-face seal. At high breath­ing rates, positive-pressure SCBAs and SARa may notmaintain positive pressure for brief periods during peakinhalation. Also, at high work rates, exhalation valves mayleak. Consequently, positive-pressure respirators workingat high flow rates may offer less protection than whenworking at normal rates.

A similar reduction in protection may resutt from high orlow ambient temperatures. For example, at high tempera­tures 8l<cessive sweat may cause a break in the face-to­facepiece seal. At very low temperatures, the 8l<halationvalve and regulator may become ~oggeddue to mois­tura in the breath and air. likewise. a poor facepiece seal-due to such factors as facial hair, missing teeth, scars,lack of or improper fit testing, ate. -can result in thepenetration of air contaminants.

Personal Protective Equipment 8-5

SeIf-contllined Breathing Apparetua (SCBAI

A self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBAI usually con­sists of a facepiece connected by a hose and a regulatorto an air source (compressed air, compressed oxygen, oran oxygen-generating chemicall carried by the wearerlsee Figura 8-11. Only positive-pressure SCBAs are recom­mended for entry into atmospheres that are immediatelydangerous to life and health lIDLHI. SCBAs offer protec­tion against most types and levels of airborne con­taminants. However, the duration of the air supply is animportant planning factor in SCBA use (see PPE Use laterin this chapter). This is limited by the amount of air car­ried and its rata of consumption. Also, SCBAs are bulkyand heavy, thus they increase the likelihood of heat stressand may impair movement in confined spaces. Generally.only workers handling hazardous materials or operating incontaminated zones require SCBAs. Under MSHA regula­tions in 30 CFR Part 11.70Ial, SCBAs may be approved(1) for escape only, or 12) for both entry into and escapefrom a hazardous atmosphere. The types of SCBAs andtheir relative advantages and disadvantages are describedin Table 8-3.

Table 8-3. Types of Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus ISCBAI

TYPE DESCRIPTION ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES COMMENTS

ENTRY..vID-ESCAPE SC8A

Dpon-Clrcult SC8A Supplies clean air to Operated in a posrove- Shorter operating time The 30- to 6O-minutethe wearer from a presslJre mode, open- (30 to 60 minutes) and operating time maycytinder. Wearer circuit SCBAs provide heavier wetght (up to 35 vary depending on theexhales air directly to the highest respiratory Ibs (13.6 kgll than a size of the air tank andthe atmosphere. protection currently cIosed-circuit SCBA. the work rate of the

available. A warning individual.alarm signals when only20 10 25 percent of theair suppty remains.

~cultSCBA These devices recycle Longer operating time At very cold tempera- Positive-pressure-..-1 exhaled gases tCOL (up to 4 hours). and tures. scrubber effi- closed.-eircun SCBAs

0" and nitrogen) by lighter weight 121 to clency may be reduced offer substantiallyremoving C02 with an 30 Ibs 19.510 13.6 kgll -.d CO2breakthrough more protection thanalkaline scrubber .-let than open~rcuit may occur. negative-pressurereplenishing the con- apparatus. Units retain the heat units. whiCh are notsumad OXygen with A warning alarm signals normalty exchanged in recommended on haz-

ardous waste sites.oxygen from a liquid or wilen only 20 10 25 exhalation and generateWhile these devicesgaseous sou_

percent of the oxygen heat in the CO2 scrub-may be certified assupply remains. bing operations. addingclosed.-eircuit SCBAs.

Oxygen supply is to the danger of heatNIOSH cannot certify

depleted before the CO2 stress. Auxiliary coolingclosed.-eircuit SCBAs

sorbent scrubber SUpply, devices may beas positive-pressure

thereby protecting the required.devices due to limita-

wearer from CO2 When worn 'lUtSide an tions in certificationbreakthrough. encapsulatinl:i ~n. the procedures currently

breathing bag may be de1ined in 30 CFRpermeated by chemi- Part 11.eels. contaminating thebreathing apparatus andthe respirable air.Decontamination of thebreathing bag may bedifficult.

ESCAPE-oNLY SCBA Supplies clean air to Llghtweight 110 pOunds Cannot be used for Provides only 5 to 15the wearer from either (4.5 kg] or Iessl. low entry. minutes of respiratoryan air cyUnder or from bulk. easy 10 carry. protection. dependingan oxygen-generating Availabte in pressure- on the model andchemical. AppnNed lor demand .-ld contin- wearer breathing rate.escape purposes only. uous-flow modes.

8-6 Personal Protective Equipment

EscaptH>nly SCBAs are frequently continuous-flowdavices with hoods that can be donned to provideimmediate emergency protection. Employers should pr0­

vide and ensure that employees carry an escape SCBAwhere such emergency protection may be necessary.

Entry-and-.:ape SCBA respirators gNe workersuntethered access to nearly all portions of the worksita,but decrease worker mobility. particularly in confinedareas. due to both the bulk and weight of the units. Theiruse is particularly advisable when dealing with unidenti­fied and unquantified airborne contaminants. There aretwo types of entry...nd.....cape SCBAs: 111 open-circuitand 121 cIosed-circuit. In an open-circuit SCBA. air isexhaled directly into the ambient atmosphere. In a c1osed­circuit SCBA. exhaled air is recycled by removing the car­bon dioxide with an alkaline scrubber and by replenishingthe consumed oxygen with oxygen from a solid. liquid. orgaseous source.

As required by MSHA/NIOSH 30 CFR Part 11.80. all com­pressed breathing gas cylinders must meet minimum U.s.Department of Transportation requirements for interstateshipment. lFor further irrlormation, see 49 CFR Parts 173and 178.) All compressed air. compressed oxygen, liquidair. and rlQuid oxygen used for respiration shall be of highpurity and must meet all requirements of OSHA 29 CFRPart 1910.134ld). In addition, breathing air must meet orexceed the requirements of Grade 0 breathing air asspecified in the Compressed Gas Association pamphletG-7.1 and ANSI Z86.1-1973.

Key questions to ask when considering whether an SCBAis appropriate are:

• Is the atmosphere IOLH or is it likely to becomeIOLH? If yes, a positNe-pressure SCBA should beused. A positNe-pressure SAR with an escape SCBAcan also be used.

• Is the duration of air supply sufficient for accomplish­ing the necessary tasks? If no. a larger cylindershould be used, a different respirator should bechosen. and/or the Work Plan should be modified.

• Will the bulk and weight of the SCBA interfere withtask performance or cause unnecessary stress? Ifyes, use of an SAR may be more appropriate if condi­tions permit.

• Will temperature effects compromise respirator effec­tiveness or cause added stress in the worker? If yes.the work period should be shortened or the missionpostponed until the temperature changes.

Supplled-Alr R..p/rat.... CSARsISupplied...ir respirators (also known as air-line respirators)supply air. I18\I8r oxygen, 10 a facepiece via a supply linefrom a stationary source (see Figure 8-1). SARs are availa­ble in positive-pressure and negatNe-pressure modes.PressurlHfemand SARs with escape provisions providethe highest level of protection (among SARsI and are theonly SARs recommended for use at hazardous wastesites. SARs are not recommended for entry into IOLHatmospheres (MSHA/NIOSH 30 CFR Part 11) unless theapparatus is equipped with an escape SCBA.

The air source for supplied...ir respirators may be com­pressed air cylinders or a compressor that purifies and

delNers ambient air 10 the facepiece. SARs suitable foruse with compressed air are classified as ''1YPe C"supplied-air respirators as defined in MSHNNIOSH 30CFR Part 11. All SAR coupfings must be incompatible withthe outlets of other gas systems used on site to prevent aworker from connecting 10 an inappropriate compressedgas source (OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134[d)).

SARs enable longer work periods than do SCBAs and areless bulky. However, the air fine impairs worker mobtlityand requires workers 10 retrace their steps when leavingthe area. AIsQ. the air fine is vulnerable to puncture fromrough or sharp surfaces, chemical permeation, damagefrom contact with heavy equipment. and obstructionfrom falling drums. etc. 10 the extent possible, all suchhazards should be removed prior to use. When in use. airfines should be kept as short as possible (300 feet [91meters! is the longest apptOlled hose length for SARsI,and other workers and ""hieles should be kept away fromthe air line.

The use of air compressors as the air source for an SARat a hazardous waste site is """"",Iy 6mited by the sameconcern that requires workers 10 wear respirators: that is.the questionable quality of the ambient air. Onsite c0m­pressor use is fimited by OSHA standards 129 CFR Part1910.134ldll.

Key questions to ask when considering SAR use are:

• Is the atmosphere IOLH or blcely to become IOLH? Ifyes. an SARlSCBA combination or SCBA should beused.

• Will the hose significantly impair worker mobtlity?1fyes, tha work task should be modified or otherrespiratory protection should be used.

• Is there a danger of the air line being damaged orobstructed (eQ., by heavy equipment. falling drums.rough terrain. or sharp objectsl or permeated and/ordegraded by chemicals leQ.. by pools of chemicals)?If yes. either the hazard should be removed oranother form of respiratory protection should beused.

• If a compressor is the air source,. is it possible for air­borne contaminants 10 enter the air system? If yes,have the contaminants been identified and are effi­cient filters and/or sorbents available that are capableof removing those contaminants? If no. eithercylinders should be used as the air source or anotherform of respiratory protection should be used.

• can other workers and ""hicles that might interferewith the air line be kept away from the area? If no.another form of respiratory protection should beused.

Combination SCBAlSAR

A relatiwly new type of respiratory protection is availablethat uses a regulator to combine the features of an SCBAwith an SAR. The user can operate the respirator in theSCBA or SAR mode. through either the manual or aulo­matie switching of air sources. This type of respiratorallows entry into and exit from an area using the self­contained air supply, as well as extended work periodswithin a contaminated area wh~e connected to the air

line. It is particularly appropriate for sites where worI<ersmust travel an extended distance to a wort< area within ahot zone and remain within that area for relative1y longwort< pariods 111(/., drum sampling). In such situations.worI<ers would enter the site using the SCBA mode. c0n­nect to the air line during the wort< period, and shift backto the SCBA mode to leave the site.

The combination SCBAlSAR should not be confused withan SAR with escape provisions. The primary difference isthe length of air time provided by the SCBA; the combina­tion system provides up to 60 minutes of self-containedair. whereas the escape SCBA contains much less air.generally enough for only 5 minutes. NIOSH certificationof the combination unit allows up to 20 percent of theavailable air time to be used during entry, while the SARwith escape provision is certified for escape only.

AJr..Purlfying R_i_ora

Air-purifying respirators consist of a facepiece and en air­purifying device. which is either a removable componentof the facepiece or an air-purifying apparatus worn on abody harness and attached to the facepiece by a cor­rugated breathing hose (see Figure 8-2). Air-purifyingrespirators selectively remove specific airborne con·taminants (particulates, gases, vapors, fumes) fromambient air by filtration, absorption, edsorption. or chemi­cal reactions. They are approved for use in atmospherescontaining specific chemicals up to designated concentra­tions, and not for IDLH atmospheres. Air-purifying res­pirators have limited use at haurdous waste sites andcan be used only when the ambient atmosphere containssufficient oxygen (19.5 percent) 130 CFR Part 11.90[a)).Table 8-4 lists conditions that may exclude the use of air­purifying respirators.

Table 8-4. Conditions That Exclude or May Exclude Use ofAir-I'Urifying Respirators

• Oxygen deficiency.

• IDLH COIiC8ilbations of specific substances.

• Entry into en unwntilated 0< confined ...... where the expo$Uf8conditions h8Ye nat been characterized.

• Presence 0< potential pnlS8flC8 of unidentified contaminants.

• Contaminant concem:rations 8re unknown or exceed designatedmaximum use CXMliC8ii'bation{s).

• Identified gases 0< VIlpors h8Ye inadequate warning plopet__

the sorbent service life is not known INJd the unit has noend-of-.eMce-fife IESUI indicator.

• High relative humidity (may reduce the P'Oteetion offered by thesorbentl.

Air-purifying respirators usually operate only in thenagati_ressure mode except for powered air-purifyingrespirators (PAPRs) which maintain a positive faeepiecepressure (except at maximal breathing rates). There arethree typeS of air-purifying devices: (1) particulate filters;(2) cartridges and canisters, which contain sorbents forspecific gases and vapors; and 131 combination devices.Their efficiencies vary considerably even for closelyrelated materials 121.

Cartridges usually attach directly to the respiratorfacepiece. The larger-wlume canisters attach to the chin

Personal Protective Equipment 8-7

of the facepiece or are carried with a hamess endattached to the fa<:epiece by a breathing tube. Combina­tion canisters and cartridges contain layers of differentsorbent materials and remove multiple chemicals ormultiple classes of chemicals from the ambient air.1llough approved against more than one substance, thesecanisters and cartridges are tasted independently againstsingle substances. Thus, the effectiveness of thesecanisters against two or more substances has not beendemonstrated. Filters may also be combined with car­tridges to provide additional protection against particu­lates. A number of standard cartridges and canisters arecommercially available. They are coIor~oded to indicatethe general chemicals or classes of chemicals againstwhich they are effective 129 CFR Part 1910.134[g1l.

MSHA and NIOSH have granted approvals for manufac­turers' specific assemblies of air-purifying respiratonl for alimited number of specific chemicals. Respiratonl shouldbe used only for those substances for which they havebeen approved. Use -of a sorbent shan not be el10wedwhen there is reason to _pact that it does not provideadequate sorption efficiency against a specific c0n­taminant. In IICkfltion, it should be noted that appfOYIIltesting is performed at e given 1emper8tUre and CMIr anarrow range of flow rates end relative humicfrties (31;thus protection may be compromised in nonstandard c0n­ditions. The essembly that has been approved by MSHAand NIOSH to protect against organic vapors is testedagainst only a single challenge substance, carbon tetrach­loride; its effectiveness for protecting against othervapors has not been demonstrated.

Most chemical sorbent canistars are imprinted with anexpiration date. They may be used up to that data as longas they were not opened previously. Once opened, theybegin to sorb humidity and air contaminants whether ornot they are in use. Their efficiency and servies lifedecreases end therefore they should be used invnediately.Cartridges should be discarded after use but should notbe used for longer than one shift or when b<eakthroughoccurs, whichever cornea first.

Where a canister or cartridge is being used against gasesor vapors. the appropriate device shall be used only if 1hlIchemical lsI have ..1Idequate warning properties" 130 CFRPart 11.1501. NIOSH considers a substance to have ade­quate warning properties when its odor, taste. or irritanteffects are detectable and peraistent at coo lC8i.beli<>nabelow the recommended exposure limit lREll (see Chap­ter 6). A substance is considered to have poor warningproperties when its odor or irritation threshold is abovethe applicable exposure Omit. Warning properties ereessential to safe use of air-purifying respirators since theyallow detection of contaminant b<eakthrough, should itoccur. While waming properties ere not foolproof,because they rely on human senses which vary widelyamong individuals and in the same individual under vary­ing concfrtions 111(/., olfactory fatigue), they do providesome indication of possible sorbent exhauation. poorfacepiece fit. or other malfunctions. OSHA permits theuse of air-purifying respirators for protection againstspecific chemicals with poor warning properties providedthat (1) 1hlI sarvies life of 1hlI sorbent is known and asafety factor has been applied or (2) the n.spirator has anapproved end-of-servic...nfe indicator.

8-8 Personal Protective Equipment

Selection of Protective Clothingend AccessoriesIn this manual, personal protectiw clothing is considaredto be any article offering skin -.d/or body protection. Itincludes:

• FuIly-<lf1C8psulating suits.

• NorHlIlC8psulating suits.

• Aprons, leggings, and sleeve protectors.

• Gloves.• Firef'llhters' protective clothing.

• Proximity. or approach. garments.

• Blast and fragmentation suits.

• Cooling garments.

• Radiation-protective suits.

Each type of protectiw clothing has a specific purpose;many. but not an. are designed to protect against chemi­cal exposure. Examples of protectiw clothing are shownin Figure 8-3. Table 8-5 describes various types of protec­tive clothing available. details the type of protection theyoffer. and tists the factors to consider in their selectionand use. This table also describes a number of lICC8SSo­ries that might be used in conjUnction with a PPE ensem­ble. namely:

• Knife.• Aashlight or lantern.

• Personal locator beacon.

• Personal dosimeters.

• 1Wo-way radio.

• Safety belts and lines.

Selection of Chemiclll-"'oteetl.. Clothing (CPCI

Chemical-proteetive clothing (ePe. is available in a vari­ety of materials that offer a range of protection againstdifferent chemicals. The most appropriate cJothing mate­rial will depend on the chemicals present and the task tobe accomplished. Ideally. the chosen material resistspermeation, degradation. and penetration. Permeation isthe process by which a chemical dissolves in -.d/ormoves through a protective clothing material on amolecular level. Degradation is the loss of or change inthe fabric's chemical resistance or physical properties dueto exposure to chemicals. use. or ambient conditione (e.g..sunlight•. Penetration is the movement of chemicalsthrough zippers, stitched seams or imperfections (e.g••pinholes) in a protective clothing material.

Selection of chemical-protective cJothing is a complextask and should be performed by personnel with trainingand experience. Under an conditione. clothing is selactedby avaluating the performance characteristics of theclothing against the requirements -.d 6mitations of thesite- -.d task.-pacific conditionS. If possible. "'PIesenta­tive garments should be inspected before purchaae andtheir usa and performance diS<:USSed with someone whohas experience with the clothing under consideration. Inall cases. the employer is responsible for ensuring thatthe personal protectiw clothing (and all PPEI necessary to

/,

-Fully-encapsulating suit

Apron, g10ll95. hardhat,face5hield. boot COIIers

figure 8-3. Examples of Protective Clothing.

protect employees from injury or illness that may resultfrom exposure to hazards lit the work site is adequata andof safe design -.d construction for the work to be per.formed Ieee OSHA standard 29 CFR PlIrt 1910.132­1910.1371.

...liNdon 8nd hgrecIatIon

The selection of chemical-protective clothing dependsgreatly upon the type -.d physical state of the c0n­

taminants. This information is detarmined during sitecharac:tei izalioi I (Chapter 61. Once the chemicals havebeen identified. available information sources should beconsulted to identify materials that are resistant topermeation and degradation by the known chemicals.One """"nent reference. Guidelines for the S81ec:rion of

Personal Protective Equipment 8-9

Table 8-5. Protective Clothing and AcC8S$Ories

BODY PART TYPE OF CLDrHINGPROTEcrED OR ACCESSORY DESCRIPTlON TYPE OF PROTECTION USE CONSIDERATIONS

.... Body FuIty-encapsuIBting ~ garment. IIoo1s Protecto against spIasheo. Does not allow body heat 110suit and g!oYes may be integral.

dust. _. and __ __ May contributa 10_ and nopIacaabla, or heat stress in wearer. par-separate. ticularty if worn "' conjunc·

tion with a c:IosecHin:uitSCIIA; a tooling garmentmay be .-ed. Impairs_ mobility. vision. andoornmunication.

Non-ilncap$ulating Jacket. hood. pants. or bib Protects against splashes. Do not use where _-tightsuit """",ns. and one-pieca dust. and other materials or petVllSiw splashing

coveralls. but not against gases .-'KI ~teetion is required."1>0"'- Does not _

May contributa 10 heatpartS of haad or ned<. stress in wearer.

liIpa-seal connactionaba'-" pant cuffs andboots and ba'-" g!oYesand _

Apron$, leggings. Fully _ and g_ Provides additional splash __possibla, ohouIdand_ apron. proteCtion of chest. fore- be used ewer • non«lC8P-proteetors Saparate coverings lor arms arms. and logs. ouIating .suit fonstaad of

and legs. using a fully-encepsulating

Commonly worn ""'" n0n-suit) to minimize potentielIorheat-..

encapsulating suit.Useful lor sampling. Iebal-Olg. and analysis opera-tions. SlloukI be used onlywhen thera is a low pr0ba-bility of total body contaetwith contaminants.

Fifefigh...... G!oYes. helmet. running or Protecto against heat. hot OecoIltail aination is difficutt.protectM! clothing bunker coat. .....,,;ng or _. and -... paniclas.

Should not be worn in ....bunker pants lNFPA No. Does not protect egainst

where ""'_ aga;nst1971. 1972. 19731. and _and-.or__chemicel

boots. chemicaf permeation Of splashes. or _ation isdegradation. NFPA S_· raquitad.dard No. 1971 opocifiesthat • garment consist of., outer sheD. WI innerliner. and a wpor _with • minimum water_tion of 25ibsrm'n.8 kg/em'llD _tthe __ of hot_.

Proximfty garment One-- or two-piece Protects against brief Auxiliary cooling Met ..lappn>ach suit) overgarment with boot expo$Ure to radiant heat. SC8A ohouId be used if the

-.g!oYes. and hood of Does not protect against wee"", .....-y be exposed 10 •eluminized nylon or cotton chemical _ation or toXic etmosphere or needsfabric. degradation. mora then 2 or 3 rninutao 01

Normany worn ""'" 0""" Can be custom- protection._ clothing. ouch as manufaeturad 10 "",tactchemicaI-proteetive cIoth- Ilgainst IIOm8 chemicalOlg. firaf'lllhtars' bunk.. c:ontllminants.gear. or ftame-retardantcoverells..

818st and Blast end fragmentation Provides some proteC'tton Does not ....,.,;d.fragmentation suit _ .. and clothing. bomb egainst very small detona~ hnring protection.

blankets. end bomb carriers. tions. Bomb blanka.. andbaskets c:en help redirect• blast.

8-10 Personal Protective Equipment

T8bIe 8-&. Ccont.l

BODY PART TYPE OF ClOTHINGPROTECTED OR ACCESSORY DESCRIPTION TYPE OF PROTECTION USE CONSiDERIUlONS

FulIIody Radiati~ various types of pootecti.. Protects ogainst oIpha Designed ID prwent oI<in(cont.) con1lImination pro- clothing designed ID _ beta partiCles. Does contllmination. If llIdiation

teetive ....jt prwent contamination of NaTptOteCt_inst is detected on __ consuft

the body by rlIdioactiYe lJIIf1JIIJlI rtldi6tkJn. .... expel iel K:ed IlIdiationpoIticl<ls. expert_ IIVICUal8 pers0n-

nel until the r8lfUJlion haz-en! hes -. _luaIBd.

Flamelfire retardant Normally worn as ., PnMdes proteetion from Add. bulk _ rrvty ___-

coveralls undergarment. flash liras. bats heat ...- poobIema_ ~r mobolity.

Rotation gear Life jacl<e1s or _ wens. Adds 15.5ID 251bs 17 ID Adds bulk _ restricts

(Commonly worn under· 11.3 kg) of buoyancy ID moboTrty.

neath c:hemical prot8Cti1Ie parsonneI woriting in or Must _ USCG otandards

clothing ID prwent_ around_. /46 em PIlrt 1601.gear degradation bychamK:a1s.1

Cooling garment One of """" methods: Ramoves-. heat

III A pump circulates cool II"'-by- (11 Pumps circulating cooldry air throughout the suit activity. the equipment. or air 11Ml\M" 10 ID 20 flO (0.3or portions of it via en air the etlVironment. ID 0.8 ....) of respi..bIe airIina. Cooling rrvty be per minute. ao 1hey ..enhanced by usa of a ""'- often LBleCOIlOInicaI tor uselex cooIar, refrigaration at • waste lite.coils. or • heat exchanger.

(2) A jackat or WISt having (2) Jackats or wsts posapockats into which packats

ica__..charge

of ice are inserted. poobIems.

131 A pump circulates (3) Pumps circulatingchilled water from • ~'Ied water pose ice ator-waterrtee reservoir..:l _ pooblems. The pump

through circulating tubes,_ batta<y _ bulk_

whK:h """'" part of the weight.body IgenaralIy the upperlD<$O only).

Safety helmet (hard For example, a hard plastic Protects the head from Helmet shan ..-. OSHAhat) or robber helmet. blows. otandard 29 em Part

1910.135.

Helmet liner Insulates against cold.Does not protect againstchemical splashes.

Hood Commonly worn with • Protects against chemicalhelmet. aplashes, particulatas.

Met rain.

Protective hair Protects against chemical Particularly important forCCMlring contamination of hair. -.with long h....

Prevents the .,tangle-ment of hair in machineryor equipment.

Prevents hair from inter-fering with vision endwith the functioning ofrespiratory protective~

Eyea_ Face shield Fun-face coverage. Protects egainst chemiC81 Faca shield. _ aplaah- eight-inch minimum. splashes. hood. must be suitably sup-

Does not protect ede--"'<lID_, them from

quetely -aainstshifting _ exposing par-

projectiles. tiona of the fac. or obscur-ing vision. Providas _..,., protaetion.

SAil ..,., _ face protaetion must INOt OSHA otanderd 29 em PIlrt 1910.133.

Personal Protective Equipment 8-11

1lIbIe 8-6. lcont.l

BODY PlI'.RT TYPE OF ClOTHINGPIlOTECTED OR ACCESSORY DESCRIPTION TYPE OF PflOTECTlON USE CONSIDERATIONS

EYM- Splahhood Protects against chemical_tcont.l splashes.

Does not protected_1y egai"'"projectiles.

Safetygl- Protect eyes against large tf lasers are used to surveyparticles and projectiles. a site. workers should wear

special protective lenses.

Goggles Depending on their con-atNetion. goggles canproteCt against vaporizedchemicals. splashes. largeparticlas. and projectilesrot construeted _

impact-f8Sistantlensasl.5__

_ sweaHnducedeye irritation .-.d visionimpairment.

Eer plugs _ muffs Protaet egai"'" physiolog- Must comply _ OSHAleal damaga _ psycho- roguilltion 29 em I'lIrtlogical disturbance. 1910.95. Can intartefe with

communication.

Use of ear plugs should becarefully raviawed by •health and safety profes·sional because chemicalcontaminants coukl beintroduced into the ••r.

_plio".. RacfIO headset with throat Provtde some hearing Highly desirable, particul.ofymiClophcM-e. protection while enabling if ame.gency condmons

communication. srisa-- GICMIlI__May be inlIlgral._. Protect hands and arms W.ar jacka, cuffs _ glove

AnN or _1Tom other from chemical contact. cuffs to p<aven' liquK:t fromprotaetiw clothing. entering the glove.

T.pe.......1glows to sleevesto provide additionalprotection.

o-v- Provida supplamental pro.tection to the wearer andprotect more expensiveunderg• ...-.. ITom .bra·sions. tears. 8ndcontamination.

Dispoubla g\oYes. Should be used whet l8Yef

possibkt to reduce decon-wnination needs.- Safety boo'" Boots construeted of Protact feet from con"'et

chemical-resistant material. with chemicals.

Boots construeted with Protact feet from com- All boots must 8t least meetlOme "'"' matarials 1811.. pression. crushing. or the apecificetions required-._ks. insoIesl. punctura by falling. !nOV- undar OSHA 29 CFR Part

iog, or sharp objecta. 1910.136 and should pro-vide good traction.

Boots construeted from Protect the wearernonc:oncluctive opark- eglinst electrical hazards_stant materials Of _ p<aven' ignmon ofcoatings. con"Ibustible gases or

V1Ip0r8.

8-12 Personal Protective Equipment

1WlIe 8-&. lcont.)

BODVMRT TYPE OF aonnNGPROI'ECTED OR ACCESSORY DESCRIPTION TYPE OF PROTECTlON USE CONSIDERATIONS

Foot (contI Diopoo.bIe ohoe or M_ 01. vwiety 01 PlotBct oefety boots from Cowere mey be6_01

boot """'"'meterieIs. Slip _the contamination. _ ..... feClTnatingohoe or boot. PlotBct feet from c:onteet -..nteminetion.

withchemicels.

Knife _ • penon in • fully- ShoukI be carried __

~lIlingouit lD cut with c:eution lD IWlidhis or her _ out 01 the puncturing the ....iLIUit ... the event of ..• ill8iQ81 tcy' or equipmentfellure.

_oghtor_ Enhances vi,ibtTIty in Must be intrinsiceOy sole orbuildings. endosed ~foruseinspaces. _ the clerk. combustible etmospheres.

Seafing the lleshlight in •p1sstic beg fecir_-..nteminetion.Only eIectriceI equipmentepprtMlCI _ intrinsiceOy

ssfe. or epprtMlCI for the___ 01 _

_ defined in AnicIe 500 01the NetionaI EIectriceI~meybeused.-_........ --expo- 10 estimate ectua1~

sure lD ioo-.g rediation exposu,", the dosimeter8nd II) cenain chemicals. should be placed inside the

~lIlingsuiL-- Opereted br sound. red.. Enables em8Igetq per-beecon or light.

_ lD _ victim.

lWo-wey_oo Eneb'es field workers 01_with per-_inthe~

ZOne.

Sefety ....... her- Eneble~lD_ Must be c:onstrueted ofneaes. Met lfefiry in elevated .-.as or enter ~-freehen!wore _

confined ereas _ I"- chemicaI-ftSiSWlt materials.,.,. fells- 8eIts mey be lD provide proper protee-_lDc:enylDOls_ lion. Must meet OSHAequipment. stendards in 29 em Pert

1926_104.

~ Clothing 14L provides. matrix ofcIolhing material recommendations for epproxilTl8tllly 300cherniceIs based on .... evaJuetion of permeation enddeg~data from incIependent 1Bsts. wndor Iitere­~ end row _rial euppliers. Charts incfocating thereslstance of various clothing 1IIlIt8ria1, 10 permeation enddegredetion .. oIso _lable from manufacturer1I endother -.rces. It Ie Important 10 note. however. Ihat nomaterial ..ul8Clli egainst all chemical, end combinationsof chemicals. end Ihat no cunentIy ...nable IIIlIt8riaI is ....effective barrier 10 .., prolonged c:hemicaIlIlq)lllIUI8.

In nlViewio III wndor~ it Ie irnpot 1OI1t 10 be ewareIhat the data provided .. of limited value. for lDC8I1lpIe.the quaflty of wndor _ method, is inconsistent; wn­den often rely on the row lIIlIt8riai manufacturers for datamher Ihan cunclucting their own 1e8tS; end the data maynot be updated. In edcfltion. wndor data cannot addresathe wkIe VBriety of IlMS end cha/lengea 10 which CPC

may be subjected. Most vendors strongly empl\asize thispoint in the descriptive text Ihat accompanies their data.

Another factor 10 bear in mind when selecti"ll CPC is thatthe rete of permeation is a function of several factors.including clothing _rial type and thickness. manufac­turing method. the concentretionls) of the hazardous sub­stancels). temperature. pressure. humidity. the soIubtlityof the chemical in the clothing material. and the cflffusion-"icient of the permeating chemical in the cIothi"ll_rial. Thus permeetion retes and breakthrough time(the time from initial exposure until hazardous material isdetectable on the inside of the CPC) may vary dependi"llon these concfrtions.

Most hazardous wastes .. mixtures. for which -.:ificdata with which 10 make a good CPC selection lll8 not...nable. Due 10 a lack of-"lI. only fimited permeationdata for multicomponent roquids are currently lIIIIIilable.

Mixtures of chemicals can be significantly more aggres­sive towards CPC materials than can any single compo­nent alone. Even small amounts of a rapidly permeatingchemical may provide a pathway that accelerates thepermeation of other chemicals (4). Formal research isbeing conducted on these effects. NIOSH is currentlydeveloping methods for evaluating CPC materials againstmixtures of chemicals and unknowns in the field. For haz­ardous waste site operations. CPC should be selectedthat offers the widest range of protection against thechemicals expected on site. vendors are now providingCPC material-composed of two or even three differentmaterials laminated togethar-that is capable of providingthe best features of each material.

Heat 1I'anster CharllCtllrbtlca

The heat transfer characteristics of CPC may be an impor­tant factor in selection. Since most chemical-protectiveclothing is virtually impermeable to moisture, evaporativecooling is IImited_ The "clo" value !thermal insulationvalue) of chemical-protective clothing is a measure of thecapacity of CPC to dissipate heat loss through meansother than evaporation. The larger the clo value, thegreater the insulating properties of the garment and. c0n­

sequently. the lower the heat transfer [5). Given otherequivalent protective properties. clothing with the lowestclo value should be selected in hot environments or forhigh work rates. Unfortunately. clo values for clothing arerarely available at present.

Other Conalcler~a

In addition to permeation. degradation. penetration. andheat transfer, several other factors must be consideradduring clothing selection. These affect not only chemicalresistance, but also the worker's ability to perform therequired task. The following checklist summarizes theseconsiderations.

• Durability:

Does the material have sufficient strength to with­stand the physical stress of the taskIs) at hand?Will the material resist tears, punctures. andabrasions?Will the material withstand repeated use after con­tamination/decontamination7

• Rexibility:

Will the CPC interfere with the workers' ability toperform their assigned tasks (this is particularlyimportant to consider for gloves)?

• Temperature effects:

Will the material maintain its protective integrityand flexibility under hot and cold extremes?

• Ease of decontamination:

Are decontamination procedures available on site?Will the material pose any decontaminationproblems?Should disposable clothing be used?

• Compatibility with other equipment

Does the clothing preclude the use of enother.necessary piece of protective equipment (e.g~ suitsthat preclude hardhat use in hardhat area)?

Personal Protective Equipment 8-13

• Duration of use:

Can the required task be accomplished before con­taminant breakthrough occurs, or degradation ofthe CPC becomes significant?

Spec'" CondltionaFire, explosion. heat, and radiation are considered specialconditions that require spec;al-protective equipmam.Unique problems are associated with radiation and it isbeyond the scope of this manual to discuss themproperly. A qualified health physicist should be consultedif a radiation hazard exists. Special-protective equipmentis described in Table 8-5 (see Full Body section of thetablel. When using special-protective equipment. it isimportam to also provide protection against chemicals.since the specialized equipment may provide little or noprotection against chemicals which may also be present.

Selection of EnsemblesL.-I of Protection

The individual components of clothing and equipmentmust be assembled into a full protective ensemble thatboth protects the worker from the site-specific hazardsand minimizes the hazards and drawbacks of the PPEensemble itself.

Table 8-6 lists ensemble components based on the widelyused EPA Levels of Protection: Levels A. B, C. and D.These lists can be used as a starting point for ensemblecreation; however, each ensemble must be tailored to thespecific situation in order to provide the most appropriatelevel of protection. For example, if work is being con­ducted at a highly contaminated site or if the potential forcontamination is high. it may be advisable to wear 8 dis­posable covering, such as 1'(vek coveralls or PVC splashsuits. over the protective ensemble. It may be necessaryto slit the back of these disposable suits to frt around thebulge of an encapsulating suit and SCM [61.

The type of equipment used and the overall level of pro­tection should be reevaluated periodically as the amountof infonnation about the site increases. and as workersare required to perform different tasks. Personnel shouldbe able to upgrade or downgrade their level of protectionwith concurrence of the Site Safety Officer and approvalof the Foeld leam lJlader.

Reasons to upgrade:

• Known or suspected presence of dermal hazards.

• Occurrence or likely occurrence of gas or vaporemission.

• Change in work task that will increase contact orpotential contact with hazardous materials.

• Request of the individual performing the task.

Reasons to downgrade:

• New information indicating that the situation is lesshazardous than was originally thought.

• Change in site conditions that decreases the hazard.

• Change in work task that will reduce contact withhazardous materials.

8-14 Personal Protective Equipment

Table 8-6. Sample Protective Ensembles'

LEVEL OFPROTECTlON EQUIPMENT PROTECTION PROVIDED SHOULD BE USED WHEN: UMmNG CRITERIA

A RECOMMENDED:o .............mand. fuII-facep;eee

SCII4 0< pnlSSUnHlemond sup­plied"'r respirator with escapeSCBA.

• FuDy-encapsulating. chemicol­resistant suit.

• Inner chemic81"";st8nt gJoYes.o Chemical-fllSistant sofety boots/

shoes.elWo-way rac:f1O communications

OPTIONAI.=• Cooling unit.o Cove<aI1s.o IDng cotton underwear.o Hard hot.o Disposable gloves end boot

covers.

The highest ...ilable level01 respiroto<y. skin. endeye protection.

• The chemical substance hasbeen identified and requires thehighest level 01 proteCtion lorskin. eyes. end the respiroto<ysystem based on either.

- measured 10< potentiallorlhigh concentration 01 etmos­pheric vepors. gases. 0<particulates

0<

- site opemklns end wort<functions inwlving 8 highpotential for splash. immer­sion. or exposure to unex­pec:ted vepors. gases. 0<

particulates of materials thatere harmful to skin or capable01 being abSO<bed throughlhe intact skin.

• Substances w;th a high degree01 hazard 10 the skin ere known0< _pec:ted 10 be present. endskin contact is possible.

o Operations must be conductedin confined. poorly ventilated.-eas untJl the absence of con­cfrtions requiring l.eYeI Aprotection is determined.

• FuIIy-encapsulBtingsuit material mustbe companble _the substances_.

B RECOMMENDED:o PressunHlemand. fuII-tacep;eee

SCII4 0< pnlSSUnHlemond sup­pfaed-air respirator with escapeSCBA.

o Chemic8l_stant clothingl_s end Iong_jacket; hooded. one- 0< two­piece chemical opIash suit;disposable c:hemi<:aI-nlsi~eceouitl.

o Inner end outer_­_stant gloves.

o ChemicaI-AlSistant safetyboots/shoes.

• Hard hat• Two-way radio corrmunications.

OPTIONAI.=• CcweraIIs.• Disposable boot covers.o Face ahield.

• lDng cotton underwear.

-Baed on EPA piOteeti4 ensembles.

The same level 01 ....pir·atory proteCtion but lessskin proteCtion than1fteI A.Il is the mininun levelrec:omrne Ided for initialsite entries until thehazards have been furthe<icIentified.

• The type .-ld atmospheric con­centration of substances havebeen identified and reQUire ahigh level 01 respiratory pr0­

tection. but less skin protection.Th;s involves atmospheres:- _ IDLH concentrations 01

apecific substances that donot represent a severe skinhazard;

0<

- that'do not meet the criteriafor use 01 air-purity;ngrespirators.

• Atmosphere contains less than19.5 percent oxygen.

• Presence of incompletery identi­fied vapOrs or gases is indicatedby' direct-reading organic vapordetection instrument. but vaporsend gases are not suspec:ted 01cont:aining high levels ofchemicals harmful to skin orcapable of being absorbedthrough the intact skin.

• Use only when thevapor or gasespresent are notsuspected 01 c0n­

taining high c0n­

centrations ofchemicals that ereharmful to skin orcapable 01 beingabSO<bed throughthe intact skin.

• Use onry when it ishighly unmrely thatthe wort< beingdone Will get tel ate

""""' high c0ncen­trations 01 vapors.gases. or particu­lates 0< spiashes01 material thatwill sffect exposedskin.

PPE UsePPE can offer a high degree of protection only if it is usedproperly. This section covers the fonowing aspects of PPEuse:

• Training.

• Work mission duration.

• Personal use factors.

• Fit testing.

• Donning.

• In-use monitoring.

• Doffing.

• Inspection.

• Storage.

• Maintenance.Decontamination is covered in Chapter 10. Inadequateattention to any of these areas could compromise the pr0­

tection provided by the PPE.

Table U. (cont.)

Personal Protective Equipment 8-15

LEVEL OFPROTECTION EaUIPMENT PROTECT1ON PROVIDED SHOULD BE USED WHEN: UMmNG CRITERIA

c RECOMMENDED:• FuII-fa<:epiece. air-pu,.;ty;ng.

canister-equipped respirator.

• Chemical-ntsistant clothing(O\/8f1IlIs and Iong-sleewdjacket; hooded. on&- 0< two­piece chemical splash suit;disposable chemical-f8Sistantone-piece suit).

• Inner and outer chemi·caI-resistant gloves.

• Chemical-<esistant Safety bootslshoes.

• Hard hat.• 1Wo-way radio communications.

OPTIONAL:• Coveralls.• Disposable boot COYefS.,

• Face shield.

• Escape mask.• l.Dng cotton underwear.

The same _ of skin

protgetion .. LlMlI a. buta__ of

I1lSPiratort protection.

• TheatmosP'-ic_Hquid splashas. or _ directcontact ...11 not -.ely aflact...., toq>OOed oltin.

• The typeS of lir contaminantshave been identified. COl K:6i'b a­tions measured• .-ld • cenister isavailable that can I"8mOV8 thecontaminant.

• An criteria for the use of .r­pUrifying I1lSPiratonl .... met.

• Am-P'-icCOl iJC8Ilb ation ofchemical_mustnot_IDUi_..

• 1lte IItmOSpheremust contain atleast 19.5 pa<-.t--

D RECOMMENDED:• Coveralls.

• Safety boots/shoes.

• Safety glasses or chemicalsplash goggles.

• Hard hat.

OPTIONAL:·G_• Escape mask.• Face shield •

No respiratory protection. • The atmosphere contains noMinimal skin proteetion. known hazard.

• Wort< functions lJf'lCIudasplashas. immersion. 0< thapotentiallo< unexpectadinhalation of or contact withhazardous __ of ....,

chemicals.

• This _ ohouldnot be worn in thaE><cIuaion lone.

• The 8tmOSPheremust contain 8tleast 19.5 pa<-.t--

....inlng

Training in PPE use is recommended and. for respirators.required by federal regulation in the OSHA standards in29 CFR Part 1910 Subparts I and Z. This training:

• Allows the user to become femmar with the equip­men1 in a nonhazardous situation.

• Ins1Jlls confidence of the user in hislher equipment.

• Makes the user aware of the limitations and capabili­ties of the equipment.

• Increases the efficiency of operations performed byworkers wearing PPE.

• May increase lhe protective efficiency of PPE use.

• Reduces the expense of PPE maintenance.

Training should be completed prior to actual PPE use in ahazardous environment and should be repeated at leastannually. At a minimum. the training portion of the PPEprogram should delineate the user's responsibilities andexplain the following. util~ing bolh classroom and fieldtraining when necessary:

• OSHA requirements as delineated in 29 CFR Part1910 Subparts I and Z.

• The proper use and maintenance of the selected PPE.including capabilities and limitations.

• The nature of the hazards and the consequences ofnot using the PPE.

• The human factors influencing PPE performance.

• Instruction in inspecting, donning, checking, fitting.and using PPE.

• Individualized respirator fit testing to ensure properfit.

• Use of PPE in normal air for a long familiarity periodand. finally. wearing PPE in a test atmosphere toevaluate its effectiveness.

• The user's responsibtlity Of any) for decontamination.cleaning. maintenance. and repair of PPE.

• Emergency procedures and self-<escue in the event ofPPE failure.

• The buddy system (see Chapter 9. Site Controfl.

• The Site Safety Plan and the individual's responsibili-ties and duties in an emergency.

The discomfort and inconvenience of wearing PPE cancreate a resistance to the conscientious use of PPE. Oneessential aspect of training is to make the user aware ofthe need for PPE and to instill motivation for the properuse and maintenance of PPE.

8-16 Personal Protective Equipment

Work Mission Duration

Before the workers actually begin work in their PPEensembles, the anticipated duration of the work missionshould be established. Several factors fimit missionlength. These include:

• Air supply consumption.

• Suit/ensemble penneation and penetration bychemical contaminants.

• Ambient temperature.

• Coolant supply.

AIr Supply ConsumptionThe duration of the air supply must be considered beforeplanning any SCBA-assisted work activity. The antici­pated operating time of an SCBA is clearly indicated onthe breathing apparatus. This designated operating timeis based on a moderate work rate, e.g., some lifting, carry­ing, and/or heavy equipment operation. In actual opera­tion, however, several factors can reduce the ratedoperating time. When planning an SCBA-assisted workmission, the following variables should be considered andwork actions and operating time adjusted accordingly:

• Work rate. The actual in-use duration of SCBAsmay be reduced by one-third to one41alf duringstrenuous work. e.g., drum handling, major rotting,or any task requiring repetitive speed of motion[71.

• Fitness. WeIH:onditioned individuals generallyutilize oxygen more efficiently and can extractmore oxygen from a given volume of air lparticu­larly when perfonning strenuous tasks) than unfitindividuals, thereby slightly increasing the SCBAoperating time [81.

• Body size. Larger individuals generally consume airat a higher rate than smaller individuals [81,thereby decreasing the SCBA operating time.

• Breathing pattems. Quick, shallow or irregularbreaths use air more rapidly than deep. regularlyspaced breaths. Heat~nducedanxiety and lack ofacclimatization lsee Heat Stress and Other Pfrysio­logical Factors in this chapter) may induce hyper­ventilation, resulting in decreased SCBA operatingtime [81.

SuitlEnsemble """'"'ation and "'netrationThe possibility of chemical penneation or penetration ofCPC ensembles during the work mission is always a mat­ter of concem and may limit mission duration. Possiblecauses of ensemble penetration are:

• Suit valve leakage, particularly under excessivelyhot or cold temperatures.

• Suit fastener leakage if the suit is not properlymaintained or if the fasteners become brittle atcold temperatures.

• Exhalation valve leakage at excessively hot or coldtemperatures.

AJso. when considering mission duration, it should beremembered that no single clothing material is an effec­tive barrier to all c:/lemicals or all combinations of chemi-

cals, and no material is an effective barrier to prolongedchemical exposure.

Ambient 'litmperatweThe ambient temperature has a major influence on workmission duration as it effects both the worker and theprotective integrity of the ensemble. Heat stress, whichcan occur even in relatively moderate temperatures, is thegreatest immediate danger to an ensemble-ill'lCllpsulatedworker. Methods to monitor for and prevent heat stressare discussed in the final section of this chapter, HeatStress and Other Physiological Factors. Hot and coldambient temperatures also effect

• Valve operation on suits andlor respirators.

• The durability and flexibility of suit materials.

• The integrity of suit fasteners.

• The breakthrough time and penneation rates ofchemicals.

• The concentration of airborne contaminants.

All these factors may decrease the duration of protectionprovided by a given piece of clothing or respiratoryequipment.

Coolant SupplyUnder wann or strenuous work conditions, adequatecoolant rICe or chtlled air, see Table 8-5) should beprovided to keep the wearer's body at a comfortable tem­perature and to reduce the potentia' for heat stress lseeHeat Stress and Other Physiological Factors at the end ofthis chapter). If coolant is necessary, the duration of thecoolant supply wJ1l directly effect mission duration-

..........,u... _ .....As described below. certain personal features of workersmay jeopardize safety during equipment use. Prohibitiveor precautionary measures should be taken as necessary.

Facial hair and long hair interfere with respirator fit andwearer vision. Any facial hair that passes between theface and the sealing surface of the respirator should beprohibited. Even a few days' growth of facial hair wJ1lallow excessive contaminant penetration. Long hair mustbe effectively contained within protective hair coverings.

Eyeglasses with conventional temple pieces «earpiecebarsl will interfere with the respirator-to-face seal of a fullfacepiece. A spectacle kit should be installed in the facemasks of workers requiring vision correction.

When a worker must wear corrective lenses as part ofthe facepiece, the lenses shall be fitted by qualifiedindividuals to provide good vision, comfort. and a gas­tight seal. Contact lenses may trap contaminants and/orparticulates between the lens and the eye. causing irrita­tion, damage. absorption, and an urge to remove therespirator. Wearing contact lenses with a respirator in acontaminated atmosphere is prohibited (29 CFR Part1910.134(e)[5][iiJ).

Gum and tobacco chewing should be prohibited duringrespirator use since they may cause ingestion of con­taminants and may compromise the respirator frt.

Donning ... Ensemble

A routine should be established and practiced periodicallyfor donning a fully-encapsulating suitlSCBA ensemble.Assistance should be provided for donning and doffingsince these operations are difficutt to perform alone. andsolo efforts may increase the possibility of suit damage.

Table 8-7 lists sample procedures for donning a fully­encapsulating suit/SCBA ensemble. These proceduresshould be modified depending on the particular type 01suit and lor when extra gloves and lor boots are used.These procedures assume that the wearer has prevtouStraining in SCBA use and decontamination procedures.

Once the equipment has been donned, its fot should beevaluated. " the clothing is too small, it will restrict move­ment.. thereby increasing the likelihood of tearing the suitmaterial and accelerating worker fatigue. If the clothingis too large. the possibility of snagging the material isincreased. and the dexterity and coordination of theworker may be compromised. In either case. the workershould be recalled and better fitting clothing provided.

As part of donning operations, an assistant tape sealsboots to protective clothing to eliminate routes of entryfo, chemicals.

Personal Protective Equipment 8-17

liIb1e 8-7. Sample Donning Proceduresa.b.c

1. Inspect the clothing end respiratory equipment before donning(see Inspection).

2. Adjust hard hat or headpiece if worn, to fit user's head.

3. Open back closure used to change air tank rrf suit has one)before donning suit.

4. Standing or sitting, 0blP into the legs 01 the suit; ensure properplacement 01 the feet within the suit; then g_ the suitaround the waist.

5. Put on chemical-resistant safety boots ""'" the feet 01 the suit.Tape the leg cuff ""'" the topS 01 the boots.

-" additional chemical-resistant boots are required. put theseon now.

- Some one-piece suits ....... heavy-soled proteeti"" feet. Withthese suits. wear short. chemicaI-f'8Sistant safety boots insidethe suit.

6. Put on air tanks end harness assembly 01 the SC&A.. Don thelacapiece end adjust it to be secure, blot comIortable. Do notconnect the breathing hose. Open vaNe on air tank.

7. Perform negative .-M:t po$itive respirator facepiece seal testprocedures.

- To conduct • negatiw pessure test. close the inlet pan withthe palm 01 the hand or sq.-ze the breathing tube so it doesnot pass air, end gently inhale for about 10 seconds. Arryinward rushing of _.f indicates 8 poor fit. Note that • leakinglacepiece may be drawn tightly to the Ioce to form • goodseal, giving. false ind~of edequate fit.

- To conduct a pOS~re test. gentty exhale whilecovering the exhalation valve to ensure that • pOSitive pres.sure can be built up. FaikJre to build 8 pOSitive pressure indi­cates • poor fit.

8. Depending on type 01 suit

- Put on Iong-sleeved toner gloves lsimilar 10 surgical gloves).

- Secure g10Yes to ......... for suits with detachable g10Yesrrf not done prior to entering the suitl.

- Additional overgloYes. worn over II'ttaChed suit gloves. may bedonned later.

9. Put sleeves of suit over arms _ essistant pufts suit up WId overthe SC8A. Have assistant adjust suit around SC8A endshoukiefs to ensure unrestricted motion.

10. Put on hard hat. if needed.

11. Raise hood CMtf head carefully so as not 10 disrupt face seal ofSCBA mask. Adjust hood to give satisfactory comIon.

12. Begin to secure the suit by dosing en fasteners on oP8"ing untilthere is only acklquata room to connect the br88thing hose.Secure all belts endlor adjustable leg. head. end ..ai.tbands.

13. Connect the breathing hose while opening the main valve.

14. Have assistant first ensure that wearer is breathing property endthen make final closure of the suit.

15. Have assistant check ell closures.

16. Have assistant observe the wearer for a period of time to ensurethat the wearer is comfortable. pSyChologically stable. end thatthe equipment is tunctioning proper1y.

-SOUrce: Based on reference 191."Perform the procedures in the order indicated.

ewhen donning. suit. use • moderate amount of • powder to pre­wnt chafing .-ld to increase comfort. Powder will also reducerubber binding.

8-18 Personal Protective Equipment

Resplrlltor fit TestIng

The ..fit.. or integrity of the facepieee-to-face seal of arespirator affects its performance. A secure fit is impor­tant withpos~reequipment. and is essentialto the safe functioning of negati_ure equipment.such as most air-purifying respirators. Most facepieces fitonly a certain percentage of the population; thus eachfacepiece must be tested on the potential wearer in orderto ensure a tight seal. Facial features such as scars.hollow temples. very prominent cheekbones. deep skincreases. dentures or missing teeth. and the chewing ofgum and tobacco may interfere with the respirator-to-faceseal. A respirator shall not be worn when such conditionsprevent a good seal. The workers' diligence in observingthese factors shall be evaluated by periodic checks.

For a qualitative respirator fit testing protocol. seeAppendix 0 of the OSHA lead standard 129 CFR Pa"1910.10251. For quantitative fit testing. see the NIOSHpublication A Guide to Industria' Respiratory Protection1101. For specific quantitative testing protocols. rrteraturesupplied by manufacturers of quantitative fit test equip­ment should be consulted. Note that certain OSHA stlln­dards require quantitative fit testing under specificcircumstances le.g.• 29 CFR Pans 1910.1018[h)[3IOiiL1910.1025[f)[311iil. and 1910.1045[h)[3IOii)[B]I.

In-Use Monhorlng

The wearer must understand all aspects of the clothingoperation and its timitations; this is especially importantfor fully--encapsulating ensembles where misuse couldpotentially result in suffocation.

During equipment use. workers should be encouraged to<epa" any perceived problems or diffICUlties to theirsupervisor(s}. These matfunetions include. but are notlimited to:

• Degradation of the protective ensemble.

• Perception of odors.

• Skin irritation.

• Unusual residues on PPE.

• Discomfort.

• Resistance to breathing.

• Fatigue due to respirator use.

• Interference with vision or communication.

• Restriction of movement.

• Personal responses such as rapid pulse,. nausea. andchest pain.

If a supplied-air respirator is being used. all hazards thatmight endanger the integrity of the air line should beremoved from the working area prior to use. During use.air lines should be kept as short as possible and otherworkers and vehicles should be excluded from the area.

DoffIng _ Ensembla

Exact procedures for removing fullY-<lncapsulating suit!SCBA ensembles must be established and followed inorder to prevent contaminant migration from the workarea and transfer of contaminants to the wearer's body.the doffing assistant, and others.

Table 8-8. Sample Doffing Procedures'

"_oIr oupplylo _bIe lIlolow~_Ita'.--_:1. Remove eny ttlc:bbileOUS or If"tSposabie clothing. boot COYerS.

outer glows. and tape.

2.Haw assistant loosen end rernoYe the wearer·s safety shoes orboots.

3. Haw assistant open tile suit completely and lift tile hood .....tile head of tile _rer and rest it on lOp of tile SCBA tank.

4.1lemoYe erms. one ot • time. !Tom aWL Once arms .. '""" .......assistant tilt the suit UP and IrNBY !Tom tile SCBA "-packlIIIOiding any c:ontaet between tile outside surfece of tile suitand the we.""', ~-and lay tile suit out ftat behind tilewearer. Iaave internal glCMlS on,. if any.

5. Sitting. if possible. rem<Ml both legs !Tom tile aWL

6. Follow procedure for doffing SCBA.7.AIte< suit is removed. rem<Ml internal gloYes by romng them off

tile _. inside out.

8.1lemoYe internal clothing and thoroughly cleanse tIIe~."tile Iow__.._ -..Ing -... ...._. lignifying _epproxJmoteIy 51T11nuws of oIr _n:

1. Remove disposable clothing.

2.QuickJy scrub and hose off. especiany eround tile .'b....texitzipper.

3. Open tile Zippe< enough 10 ,,"ow access 10 tile regulotor andbreathing hose

4.lmrnediately ettach an lIPP<Opriate canister 10 tile breathinghose Cthe type and fittings should be predeterrhnedl. Althoughthis prov;des some protection egainst any _ solipresent. it wids tile c:ertificotion of tile unit.

5.Follow Steps 1 through 8 of tile regular doffing procedure_ Take _ cere 10 lIIIOid c:omam;noting tile essistant and_rer.

"Source Based on relet.... [91.

Sample doffing procedures are provided in Table 8-8.These procedures should be performed only after decon­tamination of the suited worker Isee Chapter 10. Decon­I1Iminationl. They require a suitably attired assistant.Throughout the procedures. both worker and assistantshould avoid any direct contact with the outside surfaceof the suit.

Clothing Rau88

Chemieels that have begun to permeate clothing duringuse may not be removed during decontamination and maycontinua to diffuse through the material towards theinside surfactl. presenting the hazard of direct skin con­tact to the next person who usas the clothing.

Where such potential hazards may develop, clothingshould be checked inside and out for discoloration orother evidence of contamination Isse next section.Inspectionl. This is particularly important for fully­encapsulatintl suits. which ere generally subject to reusedue to their cost. Note. however. that negative ro.... nochemieel found) test results do not necessarily precludethe possibility thet some absorbed chemical will reachthe suit'. interior.

At present tittle documentation exists regarding clothingreuse. Reuse decisions must consider the known factors

Personal Protective Equipment 8-19

of permeation rates as well 8S the toxicity of the con­taminant(s). In fact. unless extreme care is taken toensure that clothing is property decontaminated and thatthe decontamination does not degrade the material, thereuse of chemical protective clothing that has beencontaminated' with toxic chemicals is not advisable 14].

Inspection

An effective PPE inspection program will probably featurefive different inspections:

• Inspection and operational testing of equipmentreceived from the factory or distributor.

• Inspection of equipment as it is issued to workers.

• Inspection after use or training and prior to main­tenance.

• Periodic inspection of stored equipment.

• Periodic inspection when a question arises concem­ing the appropriateness of the selected equipment. Orwhen problems with similar equipment arise.

Each inspection will cover somewhat different areas inwrying degrees of depth. Detailed inspection procedures,where 8PDropriate.. are usually available from the manu­facturer. The inspection checklists provided in Table 8-9may also be an aid.

Records must be kept of all inspection procedures.Individual identification numbers should be assigned to allreusable pieces of equipment (respirators may alreadyhave 10 numbers) and records should be maintained bythat number. At 8 minimum, each inspection should rec­ord the 10 number. date. inspector, and any unusual con­ditions or findings. Periodic review of these records mayindicate an item or type of item with excessive main­tenance costs or 8 particularly high level of "down-time."

8__

Clothing and respirators must be stored property to pre­vent damage or malfunction due to exposure to dust.moisture. sunlight. damaging chemicals, extreme temper­atures, and impact. Procedures must be specified for bothpre-.issuance warehousing and. more impOrtantly, post­issuance (jn-use) storage. Many equipment failures can bedirectly attributed to improper storage.

Clothing:

• Potentially contaminated clothing should be stored inan area separate from street clothing.

• Potentially contaminated clothing should be stored in8 well-ventilated area, with good air flow around eachitem, if possible.

• Different types and materials of clothing and glovesshould be stored separately to prevent issuing thewrong material by mistake.

• Protective clothing should be folded or hung in accor­dance with manufacturers' recommendations.

Re.p/raton:

• SCBAs, supplied-air respirators, and air-purifyingrespirators should be dismantled, washed, and disin­fected after each use.

Table 8-9. Sample PPE Inspection Checklists

Ct.OTHINGBefore use:• Determine that the clothing material is correct for the specified

task at hand.

• Visually inspect for:

- imperfect seams- non-uniforrn coatings-tears- mattunetioning closures

• Hold up to light and check for pinholes.

• Rex product

- observe for cracks- observe for other signs of shelf deterioration

• If the product has been used previously, inspect inside and outfor signs of chemical attack:

- discoloration-swelling-stiffness

During the _ ...... periodically Inspect for:

• Evidence of chemical attack such as discoloration. swelling,stiffening, and softening. Keep in mind, however, that chemicalpermeation can occur without any visible effect$.

• Closure failure.

• Tears.• Punctures.• Seam discontinuities.

GLOVES

• BEFORE USE. pressurize glove to check for pinholes. Eitherblow into glove. then roll gauntlet towards fingers or inflateglove and hold under water. In either case. no air should escape.

FUUY-lENCAPSULATING SUITS

Before use:

• Check the operation of pressure relief valves.

• Inspect the fining of wrists, ankles, and neck.

• Check faceshield, if so equipped, for.

-e<a<:ks-crazing-fogginess

RESPIRATORS

SCBA

• Inspect SC8As:

- before and after each use- at 'east monthly when in storage- every time they are cleaned

• Check all connections for tightness.

• Cleck material conditions for:

-signs of pliability- signs of deterioration- signs of distortion

• Check for proper setting and operation of regulators and valves(according to manufacturers' reconvnendations).

• Check operation of alarmIs).

• Check faceshields and lenses for:

-cracks-crazing-fogginess

8-20 Personal Protective Equipment

liIb1e 8-9. (cont.l

Supplled-Alr Resplrot....

• Inspect SARs:-daily when in use- at least monthly when in _e-every time they are cleaned

• Inspect air lines prio< to each use fa< cracks. kinks. cuts. frays.Md weak .-eas.

• Cleek fa< proper setting and operation of regulat.... and valves(according to manufacturers' f8COITV1leltdations).

• Cleek all connections fa< tightness.

• Check material conditions for.-signs of pliability- signs of deterioration- signs of distortion

• Check laceshields and lenses for.-cracks-crazjng-fogginess

A1r-Purlfylng Respirators

• Inspect air~rifying respirators:

-bel"'" each use to be sure they have been lIdequatelycleaned

-_each use- during cleaning- monthly if in _e fa< emergency use

• Check materiaf conditions for:- signs of pliability- signs of deterioration-signs of cflSlortion

• Examine cartridges or canisters to ensure that:

-they are the proper type fa< the intended use- the expiration date has not been passed-they have not been opened or used previously

• Cleek faceshields and lenses for:-cracks-crazing-fogginess

• SCIlAs should be stored in storage chests supplied bythe manufacturer. Air-purifying respirators should bestored individually in their original cartons or carryingcases, or in heat-sealed or resealable plastic bags.

Maintenance

The technical depth of maintenance procedures vary.Manufacturers frequently restrict the sale of certain PPEparts to individuals or groups who are specially trained,equipped, and "authorized" by the manufacturer to pur­chase them. Explicit procedures should be adopted toensure that the appropriate level of maintenance is per­formed only by individuals having this specialized trainingand equipment. The following classification scheme isoften used to divide maintenance into three levels:

• Levell: User or wearer maintenance, requiring a fewcommon tools or no tools at all. .

• Level 2: Shop maintenance that can be performed bythe employer's maintenance shop.

• Level 3: Specialized maintenance that can be per­formed only by the factory or an authorized repairperson.

Heat Stress and Other PhysiologicalFactorsWearing PPE puts a hazardous waste worker at consid­erable risk of developing heat stress. This can result inhealth effects ranging from transient heat fatigue to seri­ous Ulness or death_ Heat stress is caused by a number ofinteracting factors, including environmental conditions,clothing, workload, and the individual characteristics ofthe worker. Because heat stress is probably one of themost common (and potentially serious) mnesses at haz·ardous waste sites, regular monitoring and other preven­tive precautions are vital.

Individuals vary in their susceptibility to heat stress. fac­tors that may predispose someone to heat stress include:

• Lack of physical fitness.

• Lack of acclimatization.

• Age.

• Dehydration_

• Obesity.

• Alcohol and drug use.

• Infection.

• Sunburn.

• Diarrhea.

• Chronic disease.

Reduced work tolerance and the increased risk of exces·sive heat stress is direetly influenced by the amount andtype of PPE worn. PPE adds weight and bulk. severelyreduces the body's access to normal heat exchangemechanisms (evaporation. convection. and radiation). andincreases energy expencfrture. Therefore. when selectingPPE. each item's benefit should be carefully evaluated inrelation to its potential fo< increasing the risk of heatstress. Once PPE is selected. the safe duration of work!rest periods should be determined based on the:

• Anticipated work rate.

• Ambient temperature and other environmentalfactors.

• lYPe of protective ensemble.

• Individual worker characteristics and fitness.

Monitoring

Because the incidence of heat stress depends on a vari­ety of factors. an workers, even those not wearing protec­tive equipment. should be monitored.

• For workers wearing permeable clothing (eg.. stan­dard cotton or synthetic work clothes), followrecommendations for monitoring requirements andsuggested workIrest schedules in the currentAmerican Conference of Govemmental IndustrialHygienists' (ACGIH) Tlveshold Limit Values forHeat Stress 1111. If the actual clothing worn differsfrom the ACGIH standard ensemble in insulationvalue and/or wind and vapor permeability, changetha monitoring requirements and work/rest sched­ules accordingly [121.

• For workers wearing semipermeable or imper­meable' encapsulating ensembles. the ACGIHstandard cannot be used. For these situations,worlters should be monitored when the tempera­ture in the work area is above 70 OF (21°C) [6].

To monitor the worker. measure:

• Heart rate. Count the radial pulse during a3O-second period as early as possible in the restperiod.

If the heart rate exceeds 110 beats per minute atthe beginning of the rest period. shorten the nextwork cycle by one-third and keep the rest periodthe seme.If the heart rate still exceeds 110 beats per minuteat the next rest period, shorten the following workcycle by one-third [12].

• Oral temperature. Use a clinical thermometer13 minutes under the tongue) or similar device tomeasure the oral temperature at the end of thework period (before drinking).

If oral temperature exceeds 99.6°F 137.6°C),shorten the next work cycle by one-third withoutchanging the rest period.If oral temperature still exceeds 99.6°F (37.6°C) atthe beginning of the next rest period. shorten thefollowing work cycle by one-third [12].Do not permit a worker to wear a semipermeable orimpermeable garment when hislher oral tempera­ture exceeds 100.6 OF 136.1°CIl12).

• Body water loss. if possible. Measure weight on ascale accurate to ±0.25 Ib at the beginning andend of each work day to see if enough fluids arebeing taken to prevent dehydration. Weightsshould be taken while the employee wears similarclothing or. ideally. is nude. The body wate, lossshould not exceed 1.5 percent total body weightloss in a _ric day [12].

Initially. the frequency of physiological monitoringdepends on the air temperature adjusted for solar radia­tion and the level of physical work (see Table 8-10). Thelength of the work cycle will be gOliemed by the fre­quency of the required physiological monitoring.

P,a,entlon

Proper training and preventive measures will help avertserious illness and loss of work productivity. Preventingheat stress is particularly important because once soma­one suffers from heat stroke or heat exhaustion. that par­son may be predisposed to additional heat injUries. TolIIIOid heat stress. management should take the followingsteps:

• Adjust work schedules:

Moalfy workJrest schedules according to monitor­ing requirements.Mendate work slowdowns as needed.

'Although no protectiye ensemble is ucompIeteIy'" impermeable.for practical _ on outfit may be _ impermeable

when celculating heat stress risk.

Personal Protective Equipment 8-21

Rotate personnel: alternate job functions to mini­mize overstress or overexertion at one task.Add additional personnel to work teams.Perform work during cooler hours of the day if pos­sible or at night if adequate lighting can beprovided.

• Provide shelter lair-conditioned, if possible) orshaded areas to protect personnel during restperiods.

• Maintain workers' body fluids at normal levels.This is necessary to ensure that the cardiovascularsystem functions adequately. Daily fluid intakemust approximately equal the amount of waterlost in sweat, i.e.. 8 fluid ounces (0.23 litersI ofwater must be ingested for approximately every8 ounces 10.23 kg) of weight lost. The normalthirst mechanism is not sensitive enough toensure that enough water will be drunk to replacelost sweat (14). When heavy sweating occurs.encourage the worker to drink more. The followingstrategies may be useful:

Maintain water temperature at 50 0 to 60 OF

110° to 15.6°C}.Provide small disposable cups that hold about4 ounces (0.1 liter).Have workers drink 16 ounces (0.5 roters) of fluid(preferably water or dilute drinks) before beginningwork.

Urge workers to drink a cup or two every 15 to 20minutes, or at each monitoring break. A total of1 to 1.6 gallons 14 to 6 rotersl of fluid per day arerecommended, but more may be necessary tomaintain body weight.

Weigh workers before and after work to determineif fluid replacement is adequate.

• Encourage workers to maintain an optimal level ofphysical fotness:

Where indicated. acclimatize workers to site workconditions: temperature. protective clothing, andworkload (see Level of Acclimatization at the end ofthis chapter).

Urge workers to maintain normal weight levels.

• Provide cooling devices to aid natural body heatexchange during prolonged work or severe heatexposure. Cooling devices include:

Field showers or hose-down areas to reduce bodytemperature andlor to cool off protective clothing.Cooling jackets, vests. or suits (see Table 8-5 fordetails).

• Train workers to recognize and treat heat stress.As part of training. identify the signs and symp­toms of heat stress (see Table 8-11).

Other Factors

PPE decreases worker performance as compared to anunequipped individual. The magnitude of this effect variesconsiderably, depending on both the individual and thePPE ensemble used. This section discusses the demon­strated physiological responses to PPE, the individualhuman characteristics that play a factor in these

8-22 Personal Protective Equipment

Table 8-10. Suggested Frequency of Physiological Monitoring for FIt and Acclimatized Workers'

ADJUSTED TEMPERAllJREb

90"1' (32.2"C1 or_

87.5°-90"1' C30.8°-32.2°CI

82.5°-87.5"1' (28.1°-30.8"C)

n.5°-82.5"F (25.3°-28.1"C1

72.5°- n.5"FC22.5°-25.3"C1

NORMAL WORK ENSEMBLE'

After each 45 minutes of work

After each 60 minutes of work

After each 90 minutes of work

Alter each 120 minutes of work

After each 150..,;nutes of work

IMPERMEABLE ENSEMBLE

After each 15 "';nutes of work

After each 30 mnutes of work

After each 60 "';nutes of work

After each 90 minutes of work

Alter each 12O..,;nutes of work

Soun:e: RefeIence 113~

'for work-. of 250 Iulocalorieslhour.oc.Iculate the ecfjUSted oir lemperature Ite edj) II'( using lhis equotion: ta lIdj "I' = ta OF + (13 x .. sunshine). Measure oir temperatureIta) with • standard mercu~-glassthermometer. with the bulb shielded from radiant heat. Estimate pereent sunshine by judging whatpercent time the .... is not COYered by douds that ere thick enough to produce 8 shadow. (100 percent sunshine = no cloud cover .-lda sharp, distinct shadow; 0 percent sunshine = no shlldows.)

cA normal work ensemble consists of cotton COYer8l1s or other cotton clothing with long sleeves .-ld pants.

Table 8-11. Signs and Symptoms of Heat Stress"

• HMt rash may result from continuous exposwe to heat orhur'rbd llir.

° lINt """po ore caused II'( heavy sweating with inadequateelectrolyte replacement. Signs end symptoms Include:- musde spasms- pain in the hands. feet. ond obdomen

• Heat uheusdon occurs from increased stress on various bodyorgans including inadequate blood circulation due to cardio­vascular Insufficiency or dehydration. Signs ond symptomsinclude:- pale. cool, moist skin-heavysweating- cflZZiness- nausea- fainting

• Heat ....... is the most serious form of heat stress. Temperatureregulation fails end the body tei,tpEHature rises 10 critical levels.Immediate action must be taken 10 cool the body before seriousinjury ond death occur. Competent medical help must beobtained. Signs Mel SYii..,toillS are:- red, hot. -.ally dry skin- lack of or reduced perspiration- nausea- dizziness and confusion- strong. rapid pulse-coma

0S0un:e: Reference [6~

responses, and some of the precautionary and trainingmeasures that need to be taken to avoid PPE-inducedinjury.

The physiological f8C1ors may affect worker ability tofunction using PPE include:

• Physical condition.

• level of acclimatization.

° Age.

• Gender.

• Weight.

Physical ConcfrtionPhysical fitness is a major factor influencing a person·sability to perform work under heat stress. The more fitsomeone is, the more work they can safely perform. At agiven level of work, a fit person, relative to an unfitperson. will have 15,8,15,161:

• Less physiological strain.

• A lower heart rate.

• A lower body temperature. which indicates lessretained body heat Ca rise in internal temperatureprecipitates heat injury).

• A more efficient sweating mechanism.

• Slightly lower oxygen consumption.

• Slightly lower carbon dioxide production.

Level of AcclimatizationThe degree to which a worker's body has physiologicallyadjusted or acclimatized to working under hot conditionsaffects his or her abmty to do work. Acclimatized indi­viduals generally have lower heart rates and body temper­atures than unacclimatized individuals 1171, and sweatsooner and more profusely. This enabtes them to maintainlower skin and body temperatures at a given level ofenvironmental heat and work toads than unacclimatizedworkers (181. Sweat composition also becomes moredilute with acclimatization. which reduces saft loss (8).

Personal Protective Equipment 8-23

Acclimatization can occur after just 8 few days ofexposure to a hot environment (15.161. NIOSH recom­mends a progressive &-day acclimatization period for theunacclimatized worker before allowing himlher to do fullwork on a hot job 1161. Under this regimen. the first dayof work on site is begun using only 50 percent of theanticipated workload and exposure time, and 10 percentis added each day through day 6 1161. With fit or trainedindividuals. the acclimatization period may be shortened2 or 3 days. However. workers can lose acclimitization ina matter of days. and work regimens should be adjustedto account for this.

When enclosed in an impermeable suit, fit acclimatizedindividuals sweat more profusely than unfit or unacclima­tized individuals and may therefore actually face a greaterdanger of heat exhaustion due to rapid dehydration. Thiscan be prevented by consuming adequate quantities ofwater. See previous section on Prevention for additionalinformation.

AgeGenerally, maximum work capacity declines with increas­ing age, but this is not always the case. Active. well­conditioned seniors often have performance capabilitiesequal to or greater than young sedentary individuals.However. there is some evidence, indicated by lowersweat rates and higher body core temperatures, that olderindividuals are less effective in compensating for a givenlevel of environmental heat and work loads 1191. Atmoderate thermal loads. however, the physiologicalresponses of "young" and "old" are similar and perfor­mance is not affected [191.

Age should not be the sole criterion for judging whetheror not an individual should be subjected to moderate heatstress. Frtness level is a more imponant factor.

GenderThe literature indicates that females tolerate heat stressat least as well as their male counterparts [201. Generally.a female's work capacity averages 10 to 30 percent lessthan that of a male [81. The primary reasons for this arethe greater oxygen~rryingcapacity and the strongerheart in the male [151. However. a similar situation existsas with aging: not all males have greater work. capacitiesthan all females.

References1. NIOSH. 1985. Certified Equipment List as of

October 1. 1984. DHHS (NIOSH) No. 86-101.National Institute for Occupational Safety andHealth. Cincinnati. OH. Updated annually.

2. Moyer. E.5. 1983. Review of influential factOfSaffecting the perfonnance of organic vapor air­purifying respirator cartridges. J. Am. Ind. Hyg.Assoc. 44:46-51.

3. MSHAINIOSH. Canister bench tests; minimumrequirements. 30 CFR Part 11.102-5.

4. Schwope, A.D.; Costas, P.P.; Jackson. J'o.; and D.J.Weitzman. 1985. Guidelines for the Selection ofChemical-Protective Clothing. Second Edition.American Conference of Governmental IndustrialHygienists, Inc. 6500 Lynnway Avenue, Building0-7, Cincinnati. OH 45211.

5. Goldman, R.F. 1970. Tactical Implications of thePhysiological Stress Imposed by Chemical Protec­tive Clothing Systems. Arrrrv Science Conference,Natick, MA.

6. U.s. EPA. 1984. Standard Operating Safety Guides.Office of Emergency and Remedial Response, Haz­ardous Response Support Division, Edison, NJ.November. 1984.

7. Home Office. 1974. Breathing Apparatus andResuscitation. Book IV of Manual of Firemanship.London. England.

8. McArdle, W.O.; Ketch. F.I.; and V.L Ketch. 1981.Exercise Physiology: Energy, Nutrition. and HumanPerformance. Lea and Febiger. Philadelphia, PA.

9. U.s. EPA, Office of Emergency and RemedialResponse, Hazardous Response Support Oivision.1985. Field Standard Operating Procedures for SiteEntry, FSOP 14.

10. NIOSH. 1976. A Guide to Industrial Respiratory Pro­tection. NIOSH (DHEW) 76-189. Cincinnati, OH.

WeightThe ability of a body to dissipate heat depends on theratio of its surface area to its mass (surface area/weight).Heat loss (dissipation) is a function of surface area andheat production is dependent on mass. Therefore, heatbalance is described by the ratio of the two.

Since overweight individuals (those with a Jaw ratio) pro­duce more heat per unit of surface area than thin individ­uals (those with a high ratio), overweight individualsshould be given special consideration in heat stress situa­tions. However. when wearing impermeable clothing. theweight of an individual is not a critical factor in deter­mining the ability to dissipate excess heat.

11.

12.

13.

14.

American Conference of Govermental IndustrialHygie~ists. 1985. Threshold Umit Values for Chemi·cal Substances and Physical Agents in the Work­place Environment and Biological Exposure Indiceswith Intended Changes for 1986-86. Cincinnati. OH.

NIOSH. 1981. Chemical Control Corporation,Elizabeth New Jersey. Hazard Evaluation Report.TA-8Q-77-853.

Henschel, A. 1985. Memorandum to SheldonRabinovitz from Austin Henschel. NIOSH. Cincin­nati, OH. June 20, 1985.

Goldman. R.F. 1983. Heat Stress in Industrial Pro­tective Encapsulating Garments. Contract delivera­ble to U.s. Department of Health and HumanServices. Order No. 83-211.

8-24 Personal Protective Equipment

15. Oukes-Dubos. F.N. and A. Henschel, eds. 1980.Proceedings of a NIOSH Workshop on Recom­mended Heat Stress Standards. U.s. Department ofHealth and Human Services. Cincinnati, OH. Po 153.

16. Ramsey. J.D. 1976. NIOSH. Standards AdvisoryCommittee on Heat Stress-Recommanded Stan­dard for Wort. in Hot Environments. Appendix C inStandards for Occupational Exposure to HotEnvironments. proceedings of symposium, Cincin­nati,OH.

17. Astrand. I.; Axelson. 0.; Eriksson. u.; and L Olander.1975. Heat stress in occupational work. Ambio4:37-42.

18. Bchna. LW.; Pari<. c.R.; Nelson, N.; Horvath. S.M.;and E.D. Palmes. 1950. Thermal regulation duringacclimatization in a hot, dry (desert type) environ­ment. Am. J. Physiol. 163:585-597.

19. Und, A.R.; Humphreys, P!'N.; Collins. IW.; Foster. K.;and K.F. Sweetland. 1970. Influence of age anddaily duration of exposure on responses of men towork in heat. J. Appl. Physiol. 28:50-56.

20. Shapiro, Y.; Pandolf. K.1l; Avellini. B.A.; Pimental,NA; and R.F. Goldman. 1981. Heat balance andheat transfer in men and women exercising in hot­dry and hot-wet conditions. Ergonomics24:375-386.

9. Site Control

IntroductionThe purpose of site control is to minimize potential con­tamination of workers, protect the public from the site'shazards, and prevent vandalism. Site control is especiallyimportant in emergency situations. This chapter describesthe basic components of a program to control the activi­ties and movements of people and equipment at a hazard­ous waste site.

The degree of site control necessary depends on sitecharacteristics, site size. and the surrounding community.The site control program should be established in theplanning stages of a project and modified based on newinformation and site assessments (see Chapter 6. SiteCharacterization). The appropriate sequence for imple­menting these measures should be determined on a site­specific basis. In many cases, it will be necessary toimplement several measures simultaneously.

Several site control procedures can be implemented toreduce worker and public exposure to chemical, physical,biologic. and safety hazards:

• Compile a site map.

• Prepare the site for subsequent activities.

• Establish work zones.

• Use the buddy system when necessary.

• Establish and strictly enforce decontaminationprocedures for both personnel and equipment (seeChapter 10. Decontamination).

• Establish site security measures.

• Set up communication networks.

• Enforce safe work. practices.

This chapter, based on EPA's Standard Operating SafetyGuides [11. discusses general aspects of these eight con­trol measures.

Contents

Introduction 9-1

Site Map 9-1

Site Preparation 9-1

Site Work Zones 9-1Exclusion Zone 9-2Contamination Reduction ZoneSupport Zone 9-4

The Buddy System 9-4

Site Security 9-4

Communication Systems 9-6

Safe Work Practices 9-6

References 9-7

9-2

Site MapA site map showing topographic features. prevailing winddirection. drainage. and the location of buildings. con­tainers. impoundments, pits. ponds, and tanks is helpfulin:

• Planning activities.

• Assigning personnel.

• Identifying access routes, evacuation routes, andproblem areas.

• Identifying areas of the site that require use ofpersonal protective equipment.

• Supplementing the daily safety and health brief-ings of the field teams.

The map should be prepared prior to site entry andupdated throughout the course of site operations toreflect:

• Accidents.

• Changes in site activities.

• Emergencies.

• Hazards not previously identified.

• New materials introduced on site.

• Vandalism.

• Weather conditions.

Overlays can be used to help portray information withoutcluttering the map.

Site PreparationTime and effon must be spent in preparing a site for thecleanup activity to ensure that response operations gosmoothly and that worker safety is protected. Sitepreparation can be as hazardous as site cleanup. There­fore. safety measures should be afforded the same levalof care at this stage as during actual cleanup. Table 9-1presents the major steps in site preparation prior to anycleanup activities.

Site Work ZonesTo reduce the accidental spread of hazardous substancesby workers from the contaminated area to the clean area,zones should be delineated on the site where differenttypes of operations will occur, and the flow of personnelamong the zones should be controlled. The establishmentof work zones will help ensure that: personnel areproperly protectEid against the hazards present wherethey are working. work activities and contamination areconfined to the appropriate areas, and personnel can belocated and evacuated in an emergency.

Hazardous waste sites should be divided into 85 manydifferent zones 8S needed to meet operational and safe't\'objectives. For illustration. this manual describes threefrequently used zones:

• Exclusion Zone. the contaminated area.

9-2 Site Control

Table 9-1. Site Preparation

• Construct roadways to provide ease of access .-xl a soundroadbed for heavy equipment end _icles.

• Anaoge traffic flow patterns to ensure safe and efficientoperatiot l$.

• Eliminate physical hazards from the work area as much aspossibl.. including:- ignition sources in ftanvnable hazard areas.- exposed or ungrounded efectrical wiring. end low overhead

wiring that may entangle equipment.- sharp or protrUding edges. such as glass. nails. end tom metal.

which C3'I puncture proteCtive clothing and equipment andinflict puncture WCMmds.

- debris. holes. loose steps Of flooring, protruding objects.slippery surfaces. or unsecured railings. which can cause fans.sliPs. and trips.

- unsecured objects. such as bricks .-ld gas cylinders.. near theedges of elevated surfaces. such as catwalks, roof tops. endscaffok:Iing. whidl may dislodge and tan on workers.

- debris end weeds that obstruct visibility.

• Install sIOd-resistant strips end other anti.-skid devices on slipperysurfaces.

• Construct operation pads for mobile facilities and temporarystructures.

• Construct loading docks. processing and' staging areas, anddecontamination pads.

• Provide adequate illumination for work. ectivmes. Equip temporarylights with guards to prevent accidental contact.

• Install all wiring .-ld electrical equipment in accordance with theNational Electric Code.

• ContllminBtion Reduction Zone (CRZI. me ereawhere decontamination takes place.

• Support Zone. the Wlcontaminated area whereworkers should not be exposed to hazardousconditions.

Delineation of these three zones should be based on sam­pling and monitoring results and on an evaluation ofootential routes and amount of contaminant dispersion inthe event of a release. Movement of personnel and equip­ment among these zones should be minimized and res­tricted to specific Access Control Points to preventcross..contamination from contaminated areas to cleanareas. A schematic representation of the layout of workzones is given in Ftgure 9-1.

Exclusion Zone

The Exclusion Zone is the area where contamination doesor could occur. The primary activities perfonned in theExclusion Zone are:

• Site characterization. such as mapping.photOgraphing. and sampling.

• Installation of wells fOf groundwater monitoring.

• Cleanup work. such as drum movement. drumstaging. and materials bulking.

The outer boundary of the Exclusion Zone. called the Hot­line, should be established according to the criteria listedin Table 9-2. It should be clearly marked by lines. plac­ards. hazard tape and/or signs; or enclosed by physicalbarriers. such as chains. fences. or ropes. Access ControlPoints should be established at the periphery of the Exclu­sion ZOne to regulate the flow of personnel and equip-

ment into and out of the zone and to help verify thatproper procedures for entering and exiting are followed. Iffeasible, separate entrances and exits should be estab­lished to separate personnel and equipment movementinto and out of the Exclusion Zone.

The Exclusion Zone can be subdivided into different areasof contamination based on the known or expected typeand degree of hazard or on the incompatibility of wastestreams. This allows more flexibility in safety require­ments. operations. decontamination procedures. and useof resources.

The personnel working in the Exclusion Zone may includethe Fleld Team Leader. the work parties. and specializedpersonnel such as heavy equipment operators. All person­nel within the Exclusion Zone should wear the level ofprotection required by the Site Safety Plan- Within thezone, different levels of protection may be justified basedon the degree of hazard presented. The level of personalprotection required in each subarea (see Chapter 8.Pe=na/ Protective Equipment) should be specified andmarked.

The required level of protection in the Exclusion Zonevaries according to job assignment For example., a workerwho collects samples from open containers might requirelevel 8 protection. wh~e one that performs walk-throughambient air monitoring might only need level C protec­tion. When appropriat.. different levels of protectionwithin the Exclusion Zone should be assigned to promotea more flexible, effective, and less costly operation. whilestill maintaining a high degree of safety.

Contamination Reduction Zone

The Contamination Reduction Zone (CRZI is the transitionarea between the contaminated area and the clean area.This zone is designed to reduce the probability that theclean Support ZOne will become contaminated or affectedby other site hazards. The distance between the Exclusionand Support ZOnes provided by the CRZ. tOgether withdecontamination of workers and equipment. rrmits thephysical transfer of hazardous substances into cleanareas. The boundary between the CRZ and the ExclusionZOne is called the Hotline. The degree of contamination inthe CRZ decreases as one moves from the Hotline to theSupport Zone, due both to the distance and the decon­tamination procedures.

Decontamination procedures take place in a designatedarea within the CRZ caned the Contamination ReductionCorridor (CRC). They begin at the Hotline. At least twolines of decontamination stations should be set up withinthe CRe: one for personnel and one for heavy equipment.A large operation may require more than two lines.Access into and out of the CRZ from the Exclusion ZOneis through Access Control Points: one each for personneland equipment entrance. one each for personnel andequipment exit. if feasible.

The boundary between the Support Zone and the CAl.called the Contamination Control line, separates the pos­sibly low contamination area from the clean SupportZone. Access to the CRZ from the Support Zone isthrough two Access Control Points if feasible: one Bachfor personnel and equipment. Personnel entering the CRZ

Site Control 9-3

oCommand Post,

Prevailing wind direction

. .;,.,.,'

..... Efj"',~''. . .. . :... .;,

. ;';,"

----

ContaminationControl Une

. \ . \ .

\" \. \. .\ ..>"...... - .,'

I'l'l'

\ . I' ,.,'I' I' I'

. . -------------------------Support Zone

o Access Control Points.

[J Contamination Reduction Corridor.

OJ Contamination Reduction Zone (CAl),

IT] Exclusion Zone.

Note: Area dimensions not to scale. Distances between points may vary.

figura 9-'. Site Work Zones. (Note that decontamination facilities are located in the Contamination Reduction Zone.)

should be required to wear the personal protective cloth­ing and equipment prescribed for working in the CRZ. Toreenter the Support Zone, workers should remove anyprotective clothing and equipment wom in the CRZ, andleave through the personnel exit Access Control Point.

The personnel stationed in the CRZ are usually the SiteSafety Officer, 8 Personnel Decontamination Station(POSI Operator, and the emergency resp<Y.lSe personnel.Additional personnel may assist the POS Operator by con­ducting abbreviated decontamination procedures for sam­ple containers.

The CRZ must be well designed to facilitate:

• Decontamination of equipment, POS operators.personnel, and samples.

• Emergency response: transport for injured person­nel lsafety harness, stretcher), first-aid equipmentlsuch as bandages, blankets, eye wash, splints,and water), containment equipment (absorbent,fire extinguisher).

• Equipment resupply: air tank changes. personalprotective clothing and equipment lsuch as boo­ties and gloves}. sampling equipment (such as bot­tles and glass rods), and tools.

• Sample packaging and preparation for onsite oroffsite laboratories.

• Worker temporary rest area: toilet facilities, bench,chair, liquids, and shade. Water and other potableliquids should be clearly marked and storedproperly to ensure thet all glasses and cups are

9-4 Site Control

1iIble 9-2. Establishing the Hotline

• Vasuarty survey the irrmediate site WlVirons.

• Detennine the locations 01:-hazardous ..._ .....

-drainag.. Ioachate. one! spilled material-visibkt discoIonrtiona

• Evaluate data from the initial site 8I.JI'WlY ind"cating thepresence 01:-combustible ........-organic 80d inorganic gases. perticulates. or vapors-Ionizing l1ldiation

• Evoluate the reouIto 01_1 one! _ sampling.

• Consider the distances needed to prevent en explosion or firefrom _ng peroonneI outside the Exduoion Zone.

• Conoid., the diotanceo that _ne1 must _ 10 one! fromthe Exduoion Zone.

• Conoide< the physical ... nacessary for lite operations.

• Conoide< ""lBOfological concfrtions one! the potential for con­18minan1llO be blown from the ....

• Secure or mark the Hotfine.• Mocftfy its location. if necessary. as more informatK)n becoI."'5

evailable.

clean. Wash facilities should be located near drink­ing facilities to aOow emplarees to wash beforedrinking. Drinking. washing. IIIld toilet facolitiesshould be located in e oafe eras where protectiveclothing can be removed. Fecilities should becleaned IIIld inspected regularly. Appropriate pr0­

tective measures should be taken b'( maintenenceworkers.

• Drainage of water and other liquids thet are usedduring decontamination.

Personnel within the CRZ should be required to maintainintemal convnunieations. line-of-.ight contact with workparties. work party monitoring le.g.• for air time left.fatigue, heat stress. hypothermia). IIIld site security.

Support Zone

The Support Zone is the Iocetion of the administrativeIIIld other support functions needed to keep the opera­tions in the Exclusion IIIld Contamination ReductionZones running smoothly. AIry function thet need not orcannot be performed in e hazardous or potentially hazard­ous area is performed here. The Command Pbst Supervi­sor should be present in the Support Zone. Otherpersonnel pesent will depend on the functions being per­formed. end may include the Project lioam laader endfield team members who are preparing to enter or whohave returned from the Exclusion Zone.

Personnel may wear normal work clothes within this zone.AIry potentially contaminated clothing. equipment. endsamples must remain in the CRZ until decontaminated.

Support Zone personnel are responsible for alerting theproper agency in the event of en emergency. An emer­gency telephone numbers, change for the telephone lifnecessary). lMIcuation nJUt8 maps. IIIld vehicle keys-"<>uld be kept in the Support Zone.

Support facoTlties. listed in Table 9-3. ere located in theSupport Zone. 10 place these facilities. consider factorssuch as:

• Accessibtlity. lOpography. open spaca """ilable,locations of highways end railroad tracks. easa ofaccess for emergency vehicles.

• Resources. Adequate roads. power rones. tele­phones, shelter. end water.

• VISibility. l.inlHlf-sight to all activities in the Exclu­sion Zone.

• Wind direction. Upwind of the Exclusion Zone, ifpossible.

• Distance. As far from the Exclusion Zone as prac­ticable.

The Buddy SystemMost activities in contaminated or otherwise hazardousareas should be conducted with a buddy who is able to:

• Provide his or her partner with assistance.

• Observe his or her partner for signs of chemical orheet exposure.

• Periodically check the integrity of his or her part­ner's protective clothing.

• Notify the Command Post Supervisor or others ifemergency help is needed.

The Access Control Point for personnel entrance to theExclusion Zone is a convenient Iocetion for enforcing thebuddy system for two reasons: enforcement is theresponsibility of the Project Team lBader. who is stationedin the CRZ,. IIIld all persomel who enter the contaminatedarea must pass through the control point.

The buddy system alone may not be sufficient to ensurethet help will be provided in an emergency. At all times.workers in the Exclusion Zone should be in 6ne-of-sightcontact or communications contact with the CommandPbst Supervisor or backup person in the Support Zone.

Site SecuritySite security is necessary to:

• Prevent the exposure of unauthorized. unpmteetedpeople to site hazards.

• Avoid the increased hazards from vandals or per­soros seeking to abandon other wastes on the site.

• Prevent theft.

• Avoid interference with oafe working procedures.

10 maintain site security during working hours:

• Maintain security in the Support Zone IIIld atAccess Control Points.

• Establish an identification system to identifylIUthorized persoros IIIld 6mitations to theirapproved activities.

• Assign responsibility for enforcing authority forentry and exit requirements.

Site Control 9-5

Table 9-3. Support Zone Activities

o Erect a fance or other physical barrier around thesite.

o If the site is not fenced, post signs around theperimeter and use guards to patrol the perimeter.Guards must be fully apprised of the hazardsinwlved and trained in emergency procedures.

o Have the Project Team Leader approve all visitorsto the site. Maka sure they have a valid purposefor entering the site. Have trained site personnelaccompany visitors at all times and provide themwith the appropriate protective equipment.

To maintain site security during off-<luty hours:

• t( possible. assign trained, in-house technicians forsite surveillance. They will be familiar with the site,the nature of the work. the site's hazards, andrespiratory protection techniques.

o If necessary, use security guards to patrol the siteboundary. Such personnel may be less expensivethan trained technicians, but will be more difficultto train in safety procedures and will be less confi­dent in reacting to problems around' hazardoussubstances.

• Enlist public enforcement agencies, such as thelocal police department, if the site presents a sig­nificant risk to local health and safety.

• Secure the equipment.

Warning signs and fences help to prevent exposure ofunauthorized and unprotected people to site hazards.

FACIUTY

CommandPl>ot

MO<f_ Station

Equipment andSupply Cent...

Administration

Field uboratort

FUNCTION

Supervision of all field operations andfield teams.Maintenance of communications. includ­ing emergency lines of communication.

Recordkeeping, including:

-acctdent reports- chain~f-eustody records-daily logbooks-manifest directories and orders- medical records- personnel training records- site inventories- site safety map- up-to-date Site Safety Plans

Providing access to up-to-date safety andhealth manuals and other referencematerials.

Interfacing with the public: governmentagencies. local politicians, medical per­sonnel, the media, and other interestedparties.

Monitoring work schedules and weatherchanges.

Maintaining site security.

Sanitary facilities.

First-aid administration.

Medical emergency response.

Medical monitoring activities.

Sanitary facilities.

Suppty. maintenance, and repair of com­munications, respiratory, and samplingequipment.

Maintenance and repair of vehicles.

Replacement of expendable supplies.

Storage of monitoring equipment andsupplies. Storage may be here or in anonsite field laboratory.

Sample shipment.

Interface with home office.

Maintenance of emergency telephonenumbers, evacuation route maps. andvehicle keys.

Coordination with transporters. disposalsites. and appropriate federal, state, andlocal regulatory agencies.

Coordination and processing of environ­mental and hazardous waste samples.Copies of the sampling plans and pro­cedures should be available for quickreference in the laboratory.

Packaging of materials for analysis fol­lowing the decontamination of the out­sides of the sample containers whichshould be done in the CRZ. This packag­ing can also be done in a designatedlocation in the CRZ. Shipping papers andchain-of-eustody files should be kept inthe Command Post.

Maintenance and storage of laboratorynotebooks in designated locations in thelaboratory while in use,. and in the Com­mand Post when not in use.

9-6 Site Control

Communication SystemsTwo sets of communication systems should be estab­lished: internal communication among personnel on site.and external communication between onsite and offsitepersonnel.

Internal communication is used to:

• Alert team members to emergencies.

• Pass along safety information. such as the amountof air time left before the next rest period, airchange. heat stress check. etc.

• Communicate changes in the work to be accom­plished.

• Maintain site control.

Verbal communication at a site can be impeded by onsitebackground noise and the use of personal protectiveequipment. For example. speech transmission through 8respirator can be poor, and hearing can be impaired byprotective hoods and respirator air flow. For effectivecommunication. commands must be pre-arranged. Inaddition, audio or visual cues can help convey the mes­sage. The most important thing is that signals are agreedto in advance.

Table 9-4 lists common internal communication devices.Both a primary and backup system are necessary. A setof signals should be established for use only during emer­gencies (see Table 12-4 in Chapter 12 for examples).

Effective internal communication also requires the iden­tification of individual workers so that commands can beaddressed to the right worker. The worker's name shouldbe marked on the suit and, for long-distance identifica­tion, color coding, numbers, or symbols can be added.Rags may be used to help locate personnel in areaswhere visibility is poor due to obstructions such asaccumulated drums. equipment. and waste piles.

All communication devices used in a potentially explosiveatmosphere must be intrinsically safe (see footnote inTable 9-4) and not capable of sparking, and should bechecked daily to ensure that they are operating.

An external communication system between onsite andoffsite personnel is necessary to:

• Coordinate emergency response.

• Report to management.

• Maintain contact with essential offsite personnel.

The primary means of external communication are tele­phone and radio. H telephone lines are not installed at asite. all team members should know the location of thenearest telephone, and the conect change and necessarytelephone numbers should be readily available in theSupport Zone.

Safe Work PracticesTo maintain a strong safety awareness and enforce safeprocedures at a site. a list of standing orders should bedeveloped which state the practices that must always befollowed and those that must never occur in the cont8mi-

Table 9-4. Internal Communication Devices

Radio­-Citizen's band-FMNoisemakers. including:-Bell- Compressed air hom-Megaphone-Siren-Whistle

Visual signals. including:-Rag- Aares or smokeb-Hand signals-Lights- Signal board- Whole body movements

-All radios used in the Exclustorl and Contamination ReductionZones must be certified as intrinsically safe for the situation ofmtended use 12.31.

"Only from the Support Zone.

Table 9-5. Sample Standing Orders

For I'e<sonneI Entering the Contamination Reduction Zone:No smoking, eating. drink.ing. or application of cosmetics in thiszone.No matches or lighters in this zone.O1eck in at the entrance Access Control Point before you enterthis zone.Check out at the exn Access Control Point before you leave thiszone.

Few Pwsonnel Entering the Exclusion Zone:No smoking, eating. drinking, or application of cosmetics in thisZ<>fl'"

No matches or lighters in this zone.Cleek in at the entrance Access Control Point before you enterthis zone.Oleck out at the exit Access Control Point before you~ thiszone.Always have your buddy with you in this zone.Wear an SCBA in this zone.If you discover any signs of radioactivity, expk)sivity. or unusualconditions such as dead animals at the site. exit immediately andreport this finding to your supervisor_

nated areas on site. Separate standing orders should bedeveloped for the Contamination Reduction Zone and theExclusion Zone if the hazards are sufficiently different.Sample standing orders are given in Table 9-5. To ensurethat everyone who enters the site is aware of these ordersand that a high degree of familiarity with their content ismaintained, the list should be:

• Distributed to everyone who enters the site.

• Posted conspicuously at the Command Post.

• Posted conspicuously at the entrance Access Con­trol Points into the Contamination Reduction Zoneand/or the Exclusion Zone.

• Reviewed by the Reid Team leader or ProjectTeam leader with the field crew at the beginningof each work day. In this way, personnel areimmediately informed of any new standing orders

resulting from a change in site conditions or workactivities.

In addition to the standing orders, a hazardous substanceinfonnation form that fists the names and properties ofchemicals present on site should be prepared and postedconspicuously. Employees should be briefed on the chem­ical infonnation at the beginning of the project or when­ever they first join the wor1< team. Daily safety meetingsshould be held for all employees.

Working with tools and heavy equipment is a major haz­ard at sites. Injuries can result from equipment hitting orrunning over personnel, impacts from flying objects,bums from hot objects, and damage to protective equip­ment such as supplied-air respirator systems (see Chap­ter 8). The following precautions will help precludeinjuries due to such hazards:

• Train personnel in proper operating procedures.

• Install adequate onsite roads. signs. lights. anddevices.

• Install appropriate equipment guards and engineeringcontrols on tools and equipment. These include roll­over protective structures, seat belts, emergencyshutoff in case of rollover. and backup warning lightsand signals.

• Provide equipment such as cranes, derricks, andpower shovels with signs saying "Unlawful to oper­ate this equipment within 10 feet of all power lines."

• Use equipment and tools that are intrinsically safe(see footnote in Table 9-4) and not capable of spark­ing. and pneumatically and hydraulically drivenequipment.

• Where portable electric tools and appliances can beused, (i.e... where there is no potential for flammableor explosive conditionsI. use three-wire groundedextension cords to prevent electric shocks.

• In hydraulic power tools. use fire-resistant fluid that iscapabfe of retaining its operating characteristics atthe most extreme temperatures.

• At the start of each work day, inspect brakes. hydrau­lic lines, light signals, fire extinguishers. fluid lewis,steering. and splash protection.

• Keep all non-essential people out of the work area.

• Prohibit loose-fitting clothing or loose long hairaround moving machinery.

• Keep cabs free of all non-essential items andsecure all loose items.

• Do not exceed the rated load capacity of a vehicle.

• Instruct equipment operators to report to theirsupervisor(sl any abnonnalities such as equipmentfailure. oozing liquids, unusual odors. etc.

• When an equipment operator must negotiate intight quarters, provide a second person to ensureadequate clearance.

• Have a signalman direct backing as necessary.

• All onsite internal combustion engines should havespark arrestors that meet requirements for hazard­ous atmospheres. Refuel in safe areas. Do not fuel

Site Control 9-7

engines while vehicle is running. Prohibit ignitionsources near a fuel area.

• lDwer an blades and buckets to the ground and setparking brakas before shutting off the ""hicl..

• Implement an ongoing maintenance program forall tools end equipment. Inspect an tools and mov­ing equipment regularly to ensure that parts aresecured and intact with no evidence of cracks orareas of _akness. that the equipment turnssmoothly with no evidence of wobble. and that itis operating according to manufacturer's specifica­tions. Promptly repair or replace arry defectiveitems. Keep maintenance and repair logs.

• Store tools in clean, secure areas 80 that they willnot be damaged. lost. or stolen.

• Keep en heavy equipment that is used in theExclusion Zone in that zone until the job is done.Completely decontaminate such equipment beforemoving it into the clean zone.

References1. u.s. EPA. 1984. Standard Operating Safety Guides.

EPA OffICe of Emergency and Remedial Response,Hazardous Response Support Division, Edison. NJ.

2. National Fire Protection Association. National ElectrlcalCode, Chapter 5, Articles 500-503. National FireCodes, NFPA 70.

3. National Fire Protection Association. Manual for Clas­sification of Gases. Vapors. and Dusts for ElectricalEquipment in Hazardous Classified Locations. NationalFire Codes. NFPA 497M.

10. Decontamination

Contents

Introduction 10-1

Decontamination Plan 10-1

Prevention of Contamination 10-1

l\(pes of Contamination 10-2

Decontamination Methods 10-2Physical Removal 10-2

Chemical Removal 10-3

Testing for the Effectiveness of Decontamination 10-4Visual Observation 10-4

Wipe Sampling 10-4Cleaning Solution Analysis 10-4Testing for Permeation 10-4

Health and Safety Hazards 10-4

Decontamination Facility Design 10-4

Decontamination Equipment Selection 10-6

Disposal Methods 10-6

Personal Protection 10-6

Emergency Decontamination 10-7

References 10-7

IntroductionDecontamination-the process of removing or neutraliz­ing contaminants that have accumulated on personneland equipment-is critical to health and safety at hazard­ous waste sites. Decontamination protects workers fromhazardous substances that may contaminate and eventu­ally permeate the protective clothing, respiratory equip­ment. tools. vehicles. and other equipment used on site; itprotects all site personnel by minimizing the transfer ofharmful materials into clean areas; it helps prevent mixingof incompatible chemicals; and it protects the communityby preventing uncontrolled transportation of contami­nants from the site.

This chapter describes the types of contamination thatworkers may encounter at a waste site, the factors thatinfluence the extent of contamination. and methods forpreventing or reducing contamination. In addition. thischapter provides general guidelines for designing andselecting decontamination procedures at a site, and itpresents a decision aid for evaluating the hearth andsafety aspects of decontamination methods. The chapterdoes not cover decontamination of radioactively contami­nated personnel or eqUipment. A hearth physicist shouldbe consulted if this situation arises.

Decontamination PlanA decontamination plan should be developed (as part ofthe Site 5afety Plan) and set up before any personnel orequipment may enter areas where the potential forexposure to hazardous substances exists. The decontami­nation plan should:

• Determine the number and layout of decontaminationstations.

• Determine the decontamination equipment needed.

• Determine appropriate decontamination methods.

• Establish procedures to prevent contamination ofclean areas.

• Establish methods and procedures to minimizeworker contact with contaminants during removal ofpersonal protective clothing and equipment (PPE).

• Establish methods for disposing of clothing andequipment that are not completely decontaminated.

The plan should be revised whenever the type of personalprotective clothing or equipment changes, the site condi­tions change. or the site hazards are reassessed based onnew information.

Prevention of ContaminationThe first step in decontamination is to establish StandardOperating Procedures that minimize contact with wasteand thus the potential for contamination. For example:

• Stress work. practices that minimize contact withhazardous substances le.g., do not walk throughareas of obvious contamination, do not directly touchpotentially hazardous substances).

• Use remote sampling. handling. and container­opening techniques (e.g., drum grapplers, pneumaticimpact wrenches).

• Protect monitoring and sampling instruments by bag­ging. Make openings in the bags for sample ports andsensors that must contact site materials.

• Wear disposable outer garments and use disposableequipment where appropriate.

• Cover equipment and tools with a strippable coatingwhich can be removed during decontamination.

• Encase the source of contaminants, e.g., with plasticsheeting or overpacks.

In addition, Standard Operating Procedures should beestablished that maximize worker protection. For example,proper procedures for dressing prior to entering the Exclu­sion Zone will minimize the potential for contaminants tobypass the protective clothing and escape decontamina­tion. In general, all fasteners should be used (i.e., zippersfully closed. all buttons used, all snaps closed, etc.).Gloves and boots should be tucked under the sleeves endlegs of outer clothing, and hoods (if not attached) shouldbe wom outside the collar. Another pair of tough outergloves is often worn over the sleeves. All junctures shouldbe taped to prevent contaminants from running inside thegloves, boots. and jackets (or suits, if one-piececonstruction).

Prior to each use, the personal protective eqUipment (PPE)should be checked to ensure that it contains no cuts orpunctures that could expose workers to wastes. Similarly,any injuries to the skin surface, such 8S cuts andscratches. may enhance the potential for chemicals orinfectious agents that directly contact the worker's skinto penetrate into the body. Particular care should be takento protect these areas. Workers with large areas of

10-2 Decontamination

damaged skin should be kept from worlting on site untilthe skin heals.

All personnel should be trained in the Standard OperatingProcedures for minimizing contact and maximizing workerprotection, and these procedures should be enforcedthroughout site operations.

Types of ContaminationContaminants can be located either on the surface of per·sonal protective equipment or permeated into the PPEmaterial. Surface contaminants may be easy to detectand rel1lO\'8; however, contaminants that have permeateda material are difficult or impossible to detect and remove." contaminants that have permeated a material are notremoved by decontamination, they may continue topermeate to either surface of the material where they cancawreanuM~d~u~

Five major factors affect the extent of permeation:

• Contact time. The longer a contaminant is in contactwith an object. the greater the probability and extentof permeation. For this reason. minimizing contacttima is one of the most important objectives of adecontamination program.

• Concentration. Molecules flow from areas of highconcentration to areas of low concentration. As con­centrations of wastes increase, the potential forpermeation of personal protective clothing increases.

• Temperature. An increase in temperature generallyincreases the permeation rate of contaminants.

• Size of contaminant molecules and pore space.Permeation increases as the contaminant moleculebecomes smaller. and as the pore space of the mate­rial to be permeated increases.

• Physical state of wastes. As a rule, gases. vapors.and Iow-viscosity liquids tend to permeate more read­ily than high-viscosity liquids or solids.

Decontamination MethodsAll personMl, clothing. equipment. and samples leavingthe contaminated area of a site IgeMrally refened to asthe Exclusion Zone) must be decontaminated to reI1l<Ml

any harmful chemicals or infectious organisms that mayhave adhered to them. Decontamination mathods eitherIII physically rel1lO\'8 contaminants. 121 inactivate con·taminants by chemical detoxifICation or disinfectionlsterilization. or (3) remove contaminants by a combinationof both physical and chemical means. Various decontami­nation methods are listed in Table 10-1.

Physical Removal

In many cases. gross contamination can be removed byphysical means involving dislodging/displacement.. rins­ing. wiping off. and evaporation. Physical methods involv­ing high pressure and/or heat should be used only asnecessary and with caution since they can spread con­tamination and cause bums. Contaminants that can beremoved by physical means can be categorized asfollows:

• lDose contaminants. Dusts and vapors that cling toequipmant and workers or become trapped in smallopenings. such as the we""" of the clothing fabrics.can be removed with water or a liquid rinse (see pho­tograph). Removal of electrostatically attachedmaterials can be enhanced by coating the clothing orequipment with anti-static solutions. These are ....il­able commercially as wash addrtives or anti-staticsprays.

• Adhering contaminants. Some contaminants adhereby forces other than electrostatic attraction. Adhe·sive qualities vary greatly with the specific c0n­

taminants and the temperature. For example.contaminants such as glues. cements. resins. andmuds have much greater adhesive properties thanelemental marcury and. consequently, are difficult toremove by physical maans. Physical removal rMthodsfor gross contaminants include scraping. brushing.and wiping. Removal of adhesive contaminants canbe enhanced through certain mathods such as solidi­fying. freeZing (e.g•• using dry ice or ice waterl.adsorption or absorption (e.g.• with powdered roma orkitty litterl. or melting.

• Volatile roquids. Volatile liquid contaminants can beremoved from protective clothing or equipment byevaporation followed by a water rinsa Evaporation ofvolatile roquids can be enhanced by using steam jets.With any evaporation or vaporization JlfOC8SS. caremust be taken to prevent worker inhalation of thevaporized chemicals.

liIb1e 10.1. SorM Decontamination Methods

REMOVAl

• Contwninent Remow8IWater rinse. using pressurized or gravity flow.

Chemical leaching Mel extraction.

Evaporation/vaporization.

Pressurized air jets.

Scrubbing/scraping. Commonty done using brushes. scrapers.Of sponges Bnd WIIter-compatibie soIwnt cleaning solutions..

Steam jets.• __ 01 Contaminatod_

Disposal of deeply permeated materials. ag.• dothing. floormats. Bnd seats.Disposal of proteetiYe coveringsfcoatings.

INACTIVATION

• Chemical DetoxificationHalogen stripping.

Neutralization.

Oxidation/reduction.

Thermal degradatton.

• DIsinfoc:tion/StoriliZ8tlonDtemicaI disinfection.

Dry heat sterilization.

Gas/vapor sterilization.

Irradiation.

Steam sterilization.

Decontamination 10-3

-WARNING: Some organic solvents can permeate andlor degradethe protective clothing.

Many factors, such as cost. availability, and ease ofimplementation. influence the selection of a decontamina-

Tilble 10-2. General Guide to Solubility of Contaminants inFour Solvent Types

SOWBLE CONTAMINANTS

Low--ehain hydrocarbons.Inorganic compounds.Salts.Some organic acids and other polar

compounds.

Basic (caustic) compounds.Amines.Hydrazines.

Acidic compOUnds.Phenols.Thiols.Some nitro and sulfonic compounds.

Nonpolar compounds fe.g., someorganic compounds).

• Rinsing. Rinsing removes contaminants throughdilution. physical attraction. and solubilization.Multiple rinses with clean solutions remove morecontaminants than a single rinse with the samevolume of solution. Continuous rinsing "With largevolumes will remove even more contaminants thanmultiple rinsings with a lesser total volume.

• Disinfection/Sterilization. Chemical disinfectantsare a practical means of inactivating infectiousagents. Unfortunately, standard sterilization tech­niques are generally impractical for large equip­ment and for personal protective clothing andequipment. for this reason, disposable PPE isrecommended for USe with infectious agents.

Dlute BasesFor example:-detergent-soap

Ora-nic Solvents·For example:-alcohols-ethers-ketones-aromatics-straight-ehain

alkanes fe.g., hexane)- common petroleum

products (ag., fueloil, kerosene)

D1ute Acids

• Surfaetants. Surfactants augment physical cleaningmethods by reducing adhesion forces between con~

taminants and the surface being cleaned, and bypreventing redeposit of the contaminants. Householddetergents are among the most common surfactants.Some detergents can be used with organic solventsto improve the dissolving and dispersal of con­taminants into the solvent [1J.

• Solidification. Solidity;ng liquid or gel contaminantscan enhance their physical removal. The mechanismsof solidification are: (1) moisture removal through theuse of absorbents such as grounded clay or pow­dered lime; (2) chemical reactions via polymerizationcatalysts and chemical reagents; and (3) freezingusing ice water.

Water

SOLVENT

Gross contaminants can be removed with water or IIliquid rinse. Here, II member of the decontamination teamrinses lind scrubs the boots of II worker wfth II soft­bristled brush. Both individuilis liTe wearing Level C per­sonal protective Bquipment.

Chemical Removal

Phy$ical removal of gross contamination should be fol­lowed by 8 wash/rinse process using cleaning solutions.These cleaning solutions normally utilize one or more ofthe following methods:

• Dissolving contaminants. Chemical removal of sur­face contaminants can be accomplished by dis­solving them in II solvent. The solvent must bechemically compatible with the equipment beingcleaned. This is particularly important when decon­taminating personal protective clothing constructedof organic materials that could be damaged or dis­solved by organic solvents. In IIddition, care must betaken in selecting, using. and disposing of anyorganic solvents that may be flammable or potentiallytoxic. Organic solvents include alcohols, ethers.ketones, aromatics, straight-chain alkanes. and com­mon petroleum products.

Halogenated solvents generally are incompatible withpersonal protective equipment and are toxic. Theyshoukl only be used for decontamination in elrtremecases where other cleaning agents will not removethe contaminant.

Table 10-2 provides a general guide to the solubilityof several contaminant categories in four types ofsolvents: water. dilute acids. dilute bases. andorganic solvents. Because of the potential hazards,decontamination using chemicals should be doneonly if recommended by an industrial hygienist orother qualified health professiona"

1G-4 Decontamination

tion method. From .....Ith end wety stIlndpoim. twokey questions must be lIddlllSS8d:

• Is the decontamiNltion method effective for thespecifIC substances present?

• Does the method itself pose any ....Ith or IIlIfetyhazards?

Testing for the Effeetivene.sof DecontaminationDecontlImiNltion methods wry in their sffectiwnsss forremoving dIff.rent subsla IC&il. The flffectiveness of anydecontamiNltion method should be assessed lit thebeginning of • program end periodically throughout theDfetime of the program. If contaminllted materi.ls .ra notbeing removed or .re penetreting protective clothing. thedecontamiNltion program must be revised. The followingmethods may be useful in assessing the sffectiwnsss ofdecontamiNltion.

VIsual Ob_tIon

There is no reliable test to immediately determine howeffective decontamination is. In some cases~ effective­ness can be estimated by visual observation.

• Natural tight. Discolorations. stIlins. corrosiveeffects. visible dirt. or .lterations in clothing fabricmay indicate that contaminants have not beenremoved. However. not all contaminants leave visi­ble traces; many contaminants can permeateclothing and are not easily observed.

• Ultraviolet light. Certain contaminants. such aspolycyclic arometic hydrocarbons. which are corn­mon in many refined oils end solvent wastes,fluoresce .nd can be visually detected whenexposed to ultraviolet light. Ultraviolet roght can beused to observe contamination of skin. clothing,and equipment; however. certain areas of the skinmay fluoresce naturally. thereby introducing anuncertainty into the test (2,3.4). In addition. use ofultreviolet tight can increase the risk" of skin cancerand eye damage; therefore. a qualified healthprofessional should .ssess the benefrts and risksessociated with ultreviolet light prior to its use lit •waste site.

Wipe Sampling

Wipe testing provides after-the-faet information on theflffectiveness of decontamination. In this procedure. • dryor _t cloth. glass fiber filter peper. or swab is wipedO\I8r the surface of the potentially contaminated object.nd then .nalyzed in • laboratory. Both the inner endouter surfaces of protective clothing should be tested.Skin may .Iso be tested using wipe samples.

Cleaning Solution Analysis

Another way to test the effectiveness of decontaminetionprocedures is to .nalyze for contaminants left in thecleaning solutions. Elevated levels of contaminants.in thefin.1 rinse solution may suggest that addItional cleaningend rinsing .re needed.

TMtIng far .... iii_on

1iIsting for the presence of permeated chemical con­18minants requires that pieces of the PI oteetive garmentsbe sent to • laboratory for analysis.

Health and Safety HazardsWIlIle decontamination is performed to protect health endwety. it can pose hazards under certain circumstances.Decontamination methods may:

• Be incompatible with the hazardous substllncssbeing removed Ii..... decontamiNltion method mayreact with contaminants to produce an explosion.heat. or toxic products).

• Be incompatibla with the clothing or equipment beingdecontaminated leg.• some organic solvents canpermelIte and/or degrade Ploteetive clothing).

• Fbse • direct "'alth hazard to workers leg., wporsfrom chemical decontamiNltion solutions may behazardous if inhaled. or they may be flammable).

The chemical and physical cornpatib~ityof the decon­tamination solutions or other decontamiNltion materialsmust be determined before they .re used. Any decon­18mination method that permeates. degrades. damages,or otherwise impairs the we functioning of the PPE isincompatible with such PPE and should not be used. If adecontamination method does pose a direct "'alth haz­ard, measures must be taken to protect both decontami­nation personnel .nd the workers being decontaminated.Figure 1()'1 presents. decision aid for 8Vlllueting thehealth and wety aspects of decontamination methods.

Decontamination Facility DesignAt • hazardous waste site. decontamination facilitiesshould be located in the Contamination Reduction ZoneICRZI. i.e.. the .rea between the Exclusion Zone !the c0n­

taminated Breal end the Support Zone !the clean area) asshown in Figure 9-1 in Chapter 9.

The level end types of decontamination proceduresrequirad depend on ......ral aite-specific factors including:

• The chemical. physical. and toxicological propertiesof the wastes.

• The pathogenicity of infectious wastes.

• The amount. location. end containment of con­taminants.

• The potential for. end Iocetion of. exposure based onassigned worker duties. eetMties. and functions.

• The potential for wastes to permeate, degrade, orpet IIbale materials used for personal protectiveclothing and equipment. vehicles. tools. buildings..nd stJuetures.

• The proximity of incompatible wastes.

• The movement of personnel and/or equipment amongdifferent zones.

• Emergencies.

• The methods 8Vll~able for protecting workers duringdecontamination.

Decontamination 10-5

NO Is the method effective forremoving contaminants?

YES

NO Are the decontaminationmaterials compatible with the

hazardous substances present?

YES

NO Are the decontaminationmaterials compatible with the

materials to be decontaminated?

YES

Do the decontamination materials NOor process pose health or safety

hazards?

YES

Take additional measures toprevent contamination or find NO Can appropriate protective

another decontamination measures be instituted?method.

Consult specialists if necessary. YES

Method OK to use.

Figure 10-1. Decision Aid for Evaluating Health and Safety Aspects of Decontamination MethodS.

• The impact of the decontamination process and com­pounds on worker safety and health.

Decontamination procedures must provide an organizedprocess by which levels of contamination are reduced.The decontamination process should consist of a seriesof procedures performed in a specific sequence. Forexample, outer, more heavily contaminated items I'"'J.,outer boots and glovesl should be decontaminated andremoved first, followed by decontamination and removalof inner, less contaminated items ('"'J., jackets and pants).Each procedure should be performed at a separate stationin order to prevent cross contamination. The sequence ofstations is called the decontamination line.

Stations should be separated physically to prevent crosscontamination and should be ananged in order of

decreasing contamination, preferably in a straight line.Separate flow patterns and stations should be provided toisolate workers from different contamination zones con~

taining incompatible wastes. Entry and exit poina shouldbe conspicuously marked, and the entry to the Contami­nation Reduction Zone (CRZI from the Exclusion Zoneshould be separate from the entry to the Exclusion Zonefrom the CRZ. Dressing stations for entry to the CRZshould be separate from redressing areas for exit from theCRZ. Personnel who wish to enter clean areas of thedecontamination facility. such as locker rooms. should becompletely decontaminated.

Examples of decontamination lines and procedures forpersonnel wearing \f8rious levels of protection areprovided in Appendix D.

10-6 Decontamination

A member of the decontamination team suited in Level Bpersona/ protective equipment stands by 10 scrub down aworker after an initial rinse down in the decontaminationshower.

Decontamination Equipment SelectionTable 10-3 lists recommended equipment for decontami­nation of personnel. personal protective clothing, andequipment. In selecting decontamination equipment.. con­sider whether the equipment itsell can be decontami­nated for reuse or can be easily disposed 01. Table 10-4lists recommended equipment for decontamination oflarge equipment and vehicles. Note that other types 01equipment not listed in Tables 10-3 and 10-4 may beappropriate in certain situations.

Disposal MethodsAll equipment used for decontamination must be decon­taminated and/or disposed of properly. Buckets, brushes,clothing, tools, and other contaminated equipment shouldbe collected, placed in containers. and labeled. Also. allspent solutions and wash water should be collected anddisposed of properly. Clothing that is not completelydecontaminated should be placed in plastic bags. pendingfurther decontamination and/or disposal.

Table 10-3. Some Recommended Equipment forDecontamination of Personnel and PersonalProtective Clothing and Equipment

• Drop cloths of plastic or other sWtabie rnateriaIs on which heaYiIyc:ontarninated equipment and outer proteetiw clothing may bedeposited.

• Conection containers. such as drwns or suitably lined trash cans.lor storing disposable clothing and heavily _ peBOnllIprotective clothing or equipment that must be disc-.:led.

• Lined box with absorbents for wiping or rinsing off gross c0n­taminants .-ld liquid contaminants.

• urge gatvanized tubs. stock tanks, or duldren's wading pools 10hold wash and rinse solutions. lOOse should be at least largeenough lor a _ to place • booted loot in. and should haveeither no drain or • drain connected to • collection lank or8P~ treatment system.

• Wash solutions selected to wash off and reduce the hazardsassociated with the contaminants.

• Rinse solutions selected 10 remove contaminants end contami­nated wash solutions.

• lDng-handled. soft-bristled brushes to help wash and rinse offcontaminants.

• Paper or cloth towels for drying proteetiYe clothing .-ldequipment.

• lDckers and catMnets lor storage of -""taminated cIotNng andequipment.

• Metal or plastic cans or drums for contaminated wash Bnd rinsesolutions.

• Plastic sheeting. sealed pads with drains. or other 8PP'QPriatemethods lor containing and collecting contaminated wash andrinse solutions spolled during decontamination.

• Shower facilrties for full body wash or. at • minimum. personalwash sinks (with drains connected to • collection tank or~ treatment systeml.

• Soap or wash solution. wash cloths. and towels lor pe<sonneI.

• lDckers or closets lor clean clothing and peBOnaI item storage.

Personal ProtectionDecontamination workers who initially come in contactwith personnel and equipment leaving the Exclusion ZonewiD require more protection from contaminants thandecontamination workers who are assigned to the laststation in the decontamination rone. In some cases. dec0n­tamination personnel should wear the same levels of PPEas workers in the Exclusion Zone. In other cases. decon­tamination personnel may be suffICiently protected bywearing one level lower protection le.g., wearing Level Cprotection while decontaminating workers who are wear­ing level BI.

The level of protection required will vary with the type ofdecontamination equipment used. For example, workersusing a steam jet may need a different type of respiratoryprotection than other decontamination personnel becauseof the high moisture levels produced by steam jets. Insome situations. the cleaning solutions used and wastesremoved during decontamination may generate hannfulvapors. Appropriate equipment and clothing for protectingdecontamination personnel should be selected by a quafi­fied health and safety expert.

Table 1~. Some Recommended Equipment forHeavy Equipment end Vehicle Decontemination

• Storage tanks of appropriate treatment systems for tempot 81 ,

storage .-M:tlor treatment of contaminated wash .-.d rinsesolutions.

• Drains or pumps for collection of contaminated wash .-.d rinsesolutions.

• Loog~ brushes for general exterior cleaning.

• Wash solutions setected to rernoYe .-ld reduce the hazardsassociated with the contamination.

• Rinse solutions seJected to remove contaminants .-ld con­taminated wash solutions.

• Pressurized sprayers for washing and rinsing, particulartyhard-to-reach areas.

• Curtains. enclosures. or spray booths to contain splashes frompressurized sprays.

• Long-handled brushes. rods. and shovels for dislodging con­ta'ninants .-ld contaminanted soil caught in tires and the Wlder­sides of vehicles and equipment.

• Containers to hold contaminants and contaminated SOIll'81'T1OYeC1from tires .-.d the undersides of vehicles and equipment.

• Wash and rinse buckets for use in the decontamination 01 0pera­

tor areas inside vehicles and equipment.

• Brooms and brushes for cleaning operator areas inside vehiclesand equipment.

• Containers for storage and disposal of contaminated wash endrinse solutions. damaged or heavity contaminated parts. andequipment to be discarded.

All decontamination workers are in a contaminated areaend must themselves be decontamineted before enteringthe c1een Support Zone. The extent of their decontamina­tion should be determined by the types of contaminentsthey mey have contacted and the type of work they per­formed.

Emergency DecontaminationIn addition to routine decontamination procedures. emer­gency decontamination procedures must be established.In an emergency. the primary concern is to prevent theloss of life or severe injury to site personnel. If immediatemedical treatment is required to save a life, deco"tamina­tion should be deleyed until the victim is stabtlized. Ifdecontamination can be performed without interferingwith essential life-seving techniques or first aid, or if aworker has been contaminated with 8n exbemety toxic orcorrosive material that could cause severe injury or loss oflife, decontamination must be performed immediately. Ifan emergency due to a heat-<elated illness develops, pr0­tective clothing should be removed from the victim assoon as possible to reduce the heat stress. During anemergency. provisions must also be made for protectingmedical personnel and disposing of contaminated clothingend equipment. See Chapter 12 for further information ondecontamination during emergencies.

Decontamination 10-7

References1. Rosen. M.J. 1978. Surfaetants and Interfacial

Phenomena. Wiley-lnterscience Publication. NY.304 pp.

2. Vo-Oinh. T. 1983. Surface detection of contamination:Principles. applications. end recent ~'opments.J.Environ. Sci. January/February 1983. pp. 40-43.

3. Vo-Dinh. T. and RoB. Gammage. 1981. The Use of aFiberoptics Skin Contamination Monitor in the Work­place. Chemical Hazards in the Workplace, AmericanChemical Society. pp 269-281.

4. Vo-Dinh. T. and RoB. Gammage. 1981. The lightpipeIuminoscope for monitoring occupational skin contami·nation. J. Am. Ind. Hyg. Assoc. 42:112-120.

11. Handling Drums and Other Containers

Contents

Introduction 11·1

Inspection 11-1

Planning 11-3

Handling 11-3Drums Containing Radioactive Waste 11-4Drums that May Contain Explosive or Shock-Sensitive Wastes 11-4Bulging Drums 11-4Drums Containing Packaged Laboratory Wastes(Lab Packs) 11-4Leaking, Open, and Deteriorated Drums 11-4Buried Drums 11-5

Opening 11-5

Sampli"ll 11-6

Characterization "-7

Staging 11-8

Bulking 11-9

Shipment 11-9

Special Case Problems 11-11Tanks and Vaults 11-11Vacuum Trucks 11-12Elevated Tanks 11-12Compressed Gas Cylinders 11-12Ponds and Lagoons 11-12

References 11-12

IntroductionAccidents may occur during handling of drums and otherhazardous waste containers. Hazards include detonations.fires. explosions. vapor generation, and physical injuryresulting from moving heavy containers by hand andworking around stacked drums. heavy equipment. anddeteriorated drums. While these hazards are always pres­ent. proper work practices-such as minimizing handlingand using equipment and procedures that isofate workersfrom hazardous substances -can minimize the risks tosite personnel.

This chapter defines practices and procedures for safehandling of drums and other hazardous waste containers.It is intended to aid the Project Team Leader in setting upa waste container handling program. In addition to read­ing this chapter. the Project Team Leader shoukt also beaware of all pertinent regulations. OSHA regulations (29CFR Parts 1910 and 1926) include general requirementsand standards for storing, containing, and handling chem­icals and containers. and for maintaining equipment usedfor handling materials. EPA regulations (40 CFR Part 265)stipulate requirements for types of containers, main­tenance of containers and containment structures. anddesign and maintenance of storage areas. DOT regula­tions (49 CFR Parts 171 through 1781 also stipulaterequirements for containers and procedures for shipmentof hazardous wastes.

Containers are handled during characterization andremoval of their contents and during other operations. Aflow chart showing one set of possible procedures fordrum handling is given in Figure 11-1. Guidance for safelvperforming the procedures shown in Figure 11-1 isprovided in the following sections of this chapter. Thefinal section. Special Case Problems. describes thehandling of tanks. vaults. vacuum trucks. elevated tanks.and compressed gas Cylinders.

InspectionThe appropriate procedures for handling drums depend onthe drum contents. Thus, prior to any handling, drumsshould be visually inspected to gain as much informationas possible about their contents. The inspection crewshould look for:

o Symbols, words, or other marks on the drum indicat­ing that its contents are hazardous. e.g., radioactive.explosive. corrosive. toxic. flammable.

o Symbols, words, or other marks on a drum indicatingthat it contains discarded laboratory chemicals, rea­gents, or other potentially dangerous materials insmall-volume individual containers (see Table 11-11.

• Signs of deterioration such as corrosion. rust. andleaks-

o Signs that the drum is under pressure such as swell­ing and bulging.

o Drum type (see Table 11-1).

o Configuration of the drumhead (see Table 11-2).

Conditions in the immediate vicinity of the drums mayprovide information about drum contents and theirassociated hazards. Monitoring should be conductedaround the drums using instruments such as a gammaradiation survey instrument, organic vapor monrtors. 8nd• combustible gas meter.

The results of this survey can be used to classify thedrums into preliminary hazard categories, for example:

• Radioactive.

o Leaking/deteriorated.

o Bulging.

• Explosive/shock-sensitive.

• Contains small-volume individual containers oflaboratory wastes or other dangerous materials.

As a precautionary measure. personnel should assumathat unlabelled drums contain hazardous materials untiltheir contents are characterized. Also. they should bear inmind that drums are frequently mislabelled-particularlydrums that are reused. Thus, a drum'$ label may notaccurately describe its contents.

If buried drums ara suspected. ground-penetrating sys.tems. such as electromagnetic wave. electrical resistivity.ground-penetrating radar. magnetometry. and metaldetection. can be used to estimate the location and depthof the drums.

11-2 Handling Drums and Other Containers

INSPECTION

Inspect drums

OPENING

Open drums

SAMPUNGDevelop sampling

plan. Sampledrum contents

CHARACTERIZATION

Characterize wastes

BULKINGTransfer drumcontents into

bulk containers

PLANNING

Develop ahandling plan

HANDUNGOrient drumsfor opening

and sampling

YES PLANNING

Develop astaging plan

r -- --,I STAGING II Move drums to II first staging area IL (if a~~ri~1....I

r- J__ .,I Move drums to II opening/sampling

area

LI (if appropriate) I__• __ ....1

i M-;" dru-;s-; lI second stagingI area IL (if appropriat~..J

r- J--,I Move drums to II final staging areaI lif appropriate) IL ....I

BULKINGTransfer drumcontents into

bulk containers

OPENING

Open drums

SAMPUNG

Sample drum contents

CHARACTERIZATION

Characterize wastes

SHIPMENTShip bulked wastes and/ordrums to offsite treatment.storage. or disposal facility

Figure 11-1. Row Chart for Drum Handling. (Dashed boxes indicate optional steps.Number of staging areas necessary is site specific.)

Teble 11-1. Special Drum 1YPes andTheir Associated Hazards

Teble 11-2. Infonnation Provided byDrumhead Confllluration

PoIy.thy'.". or~Drum.

EmtIcM....Drums (e.g., Ilumi­run, nickel. atain­...... oteel.0<_unuouaI metal)

Slolglo_Drumo~_.--

CONFIGURATION

Whole lid removlble.

Hao • bung.

Contains I liner.

Often contain strong acids or bases. If theDning 10 punctured. the oubstance usuallyquickly corrodes the steel, resulting in •significant leak or spill.

Very expensive drums that usually con­tain an extremely dangerous material.

These drums have fittings for bothproduct filling _ placement of on inengas,. such as nitrogen. May contain reac­tive. flanvnable. 0< oxpIosiw oubstances.

Uoed for disposal of expired chemicalsand process -.nples from universitylaboratories. hospitals. end similar institu­tions. Individual containers within the labpacl< .... often not packed in absorbentmaterial. They may contain incompatiblematerials. radioisotopes.. shock-sensmve,highly volatile, highly cormsi...... 0< verytoxic exotic chemicals. Laboratory packscan be WI ignition source for fires athazardous waste sites.

INFORMATION

Designed to contain solidmaterial.

Designed to contain a liquid.

May contain. highly corrosiveor otherwise hazardous material.

Handling Drums and Other Containers 11-3

to facilitate characterization and remedial action (seeStaging in this chapter). Handling may Or may not benecessary. depending on how the drums are positioned at8 site.

Since accidents occur frequently during handling, particu­larly initial handling. drums should only be handled ifnecessary. Prior to handling. all personnel should bewarned about the hazards of handling. and instructed tominimize handling as much as possible and to avoidunnecessary handling. In all phases of handling, person­nel should be alert for new infonnation about potentialhazards. These hazards should be responded to beforecontinuing with more routine handling operations. Over­pack drums (larger drums in which leaking or damageddrums are placed for storage or shipment [see 49 CFRPart 173.31clJl and an edequate volume of absorbentshould be kept near areas where minor spills may occur.Where major spills may occur, a containment berm ade­quate to contain the entire volume of liquid in the drumsshould be constructed before any handling takes place. Ifthe drum contents spill, personnel trained in spill responseshould be used to isolate and contain the spill.

Severer types of equipment can be used to move drums:(1) A drum grappler attached to a hydraulic excavator;12) a small front-end loader. which can be either loadedmanually or equipped with a bucket sling; 13) a rough ter­rain forklift; (4) a roller conveyor equipped with solidrollers; and (5) drum carts designed specifically for drumhandling. Drums are also sometimes mowd manually. Thedrum grappler is the preferred piece of equipment fordrum handling. It keeps the operator removed from thedrums so that there is less likelihood of injury if the drumsdetonate or rupture. tf a drum is leaking, the operator canstop the leak by rotating the drum and immediately plac­ing it into an overpack. In case of an explosion, grapplerclaws help protect the operator by partially deflecting theforce of the explosion.

PlanningSince drum hanclling is fraught with danger, fNery step ofthe oparation should be carefully planned, based on allthe Information lMIi1abla at the time. The results of thepreliminary inspection can be used to datannine (1) if anyhazards are present and the appropriate response, and121 which drums need to be I110IIed in order to be openedand sampled. A preliminary plan should be dfNelopedwhich specifies the extent of handling necessary, the per·sonnel selected for the job, and the most appropriateprocedures based on the hazards essociated with theprobable drum contents as datennined by visual inspec­tion. This plan should be revised as new infonnstion isobtained during drum hanclling.

HandlingThe purpose of handling is to (1) respond to any obviousproblems that might impair worker safety, such .. radio­ectivlty, leakage, or the presence of explosive substances,121 unstack and orient drums for sampling. and 131 ifnecessary, to organize drums into different areas on site

Backhoe with drum grappler.

The following procedures can be used to maximizeworker safety during drum handling and movement:

• Train personnel in proper lifting and moving tech­niques to prevent back injuries.

• Make sure the vehicle selected has sufficient ratedload capacity to handle the anticipated loads, and

11-4 Handling Drums and Other Containers

make sure the vehicle can operate srnoothIy on the8Y8~able road surface.

• Air concfrtion the cabs of vehicles to increase opera­tor efficiency; protect the operator with heavy splashshields.

• Supply operators with appropriate respiratory proteC­tive equipment when needed. Normally either a c0m­

bination SCIlAISAR with the air tank fastened to thevehicle, or en airline respirator end en escapa SCBAare used 1JecaU$8 of the high potantial hezerds ofdrum handling. This impruwes operator efficiency endpnMdas protection in case the operator must aban­don the equipment.

• Have overpacks reedy before any attempt is made to_drums.

• Before..-ing anything, detennine the most appro­prieta sequence in which the various drums endother containers should be moved. For example, smallcontainers may have to be removed first to permitheavy equipment to enter end _ the drums.

• Exercise extreme caution in handling drums thet arenot intact end tightly sealed.

• Ensure thet operators have a clear view of the road­wwv when carrying drums. WIIera necessary, haveground workers 8Y8~able to guide the operator'smotion.

Drum. Containing RadloactIvlI We..e

• If the drum exhibits radiation levels .bove beck­ground (see Tabla 6-21, immediately contact • healthphysicist. Do not handle any drums thet are~­mined to be radioactive until persons with expertisein this area have been consulted.

Drums th8t May e:-tIIln bpIoaIve «8hoc1<-e-JthM We_

• If. drum is suspected to contein explosive or shock­sensitive waste .. detennined by visual inspection.seek apeciarlZed assistance before any handling.

• If handling is necessary, handle these drums withextremtl CIIution.

• Prior to handling these drums. meke sure all n0n­essential parsonnel heve moved • safe distance _.

• Use • grappler unit constructed for explosive contain- .mont for initiel handling of such drums.

• Pelletize the drums prior to transport. SecuTe drumsto pallets.

• Use en audible siren signal system. sim~ar to thetemployed in conventional blasting operations. tosignal the commencement end completion of explo­sive wasta handling 8etivities.

• Maintain continuous communication with the SiteSafetY Officer and/or the command post until drumhandling operations lIfll complete.

Bulging Drum.

• Pressurized drums .ra extremely hezerdous. WIIer­....r possible, do not move drums thet may be

under internal pressure, as evidenced by bulging orswelling.

• If. pressurized drum has to be moved. wlle""""rpossible handle the drum with a grappler unit con­structed for explosive containment. Either movethe bulged drum only as far as necessary to allowseating on firm ground, or carefully overpack thedrum. Exercise extreme caution when workingwith or adjacent to potantially pressurized drums.

Drum. e:-tIIlnlng Packaged a..t>or.tOl' We....a..b ........,

laboratory packs fiJI.. drums containing individual c0n­tainers of laboratory materials normally surrounded bycushioning absorbent material) can be an ignition sourcefor fires at hezerdous wasta sites. They sometimes c0n­tain shock-sensitive materials. Such containers should beconsidered to hold explosive or shock-sensitive wastesuntil otherwise characterized. If handling is required. thefollowing precautions are among those thet should betaken:

• Prior to handling or transporting lab packs, make surean non........ntial parsonnel have moved a safe dis­tance_.

• WheIl8IIer possible, use a grappler unit constructedfor explosive containment for initial handling of suchdrums.

• Maintain continuous communication with the SiteSafety Officer end/or the command post until han­dling operations are complete.

• Once a lab pack has been opened. have a chemistinspect. classify. end segregate the bottles within it.without opening them, eccording to the hazards ofthe wastes. An example of a system for classifyinglab pack wastes is provided in Table 11-3. The objec­tive of a classification system is to ensure safe segre­gation of the lab packs' contents. Pack these bottleswith sufficient cushioning and absorption materialsto prevent excessive movement of the bottles and toabsorb all free liquids, and ship them to an approveddisposal facility.

• If crystalline material is noted at the neck of anybottle, handle it as a shock-sensitive waste, due tothe potential presence of picric acid or other similarmaterial, and get expert advice before attempting tohandla it.

• Pelletize the repacked drums prior to transport.Secure the drums to pallets.

leaking. Open. -'" Deterlorlltecl Drum.• If a drum containing a liquid cannot be moved with­

out ruptUre, immediately transfer its contents to asound drum using a pump designed for transferingthet liquid.

• Using a drum grappler, place immediately in overpackcontainers:

laaking drums thet contain sludges or semi-solids.Opan drums that contain ijquid or solid waste.Deteriorated drums that can be moved withoutrupture.

Handling Drums and Other Containers 11-5

Table 11-3. Example of Lab Pack Content ClassificationSystem for Disposal

Burled Orlan.

• Prior to initiating subsurface excavation, use ground­penetrating systems to estimate the location anddepth of the drums (see Inspection in this chapter).

• Remove soil with great caution to minimize thepotential for drum rupture.

• H""" a dry chemical fire extinguisher on hand to c0n­

trol small fires.

OpeningDrums are usually opened and sampled in place duringsite investigations. However, remedial and emergencyoperations may require a separate drum opening area CseeStaging in this chapter). Procedures for opening drumsare the same, regardless of where the drums are opened.10 enhance the efficiency and safety of drum-openingpersonnel, the following procedures should be instituted.

• " a supplied..ir respiratory protection system is used,place a bank of air cylinders outside the work ""'aand supply air to the operators via airlines andescape SCBAs. This enables workers to operate inrelative comfort for extended periods of time.

• Protect personnel by keeping them at a safe distancefrom the drums being opened. If personnel must beJocated near the drums. place explosion-resistantplastic shields between them and the drums to pro­tect them in case of detonation. locate controls fordrum opening equipment. monitoring equipment.. andfire suppression equipment behind the explosion­resistant plastic shield.

• " possible, monitor continuously during opening.Place sensors of monitoring equipment, such ascolorimetric tubes. dosimeters. radiation surveyinstruments. explosion meters, organic vaporanalyzers.. and oxygen meters. as close 85 possibleto the source of contaminants. i.e., at the drumopening.

• Use the following remote-<:ontrolled devices foropening drums:

Pneumatically operated impact wrench to removedrum bungs.Hydraulically or pneumatically operated drumpiercers Csee Rgure 11-2).Backhoes equipped with bronze spikes forpenetrating drum tops in large-scale operations(see FIQure 11-3).

• Do not use picks. chisels and firearms to opendrums.

• Hang or balance the drum opening equipment tominimize worker exertion.

• " the drum shows signs of swelling or bulging,perform all steps slowly. Relieve excess pressureprior to opening and, if possible, from a remotelocation using such devices as a pneumatic impactwrench or hydraulic penetration device. If pressuremust be relieved manually, place a barrier such asexplosion-resistant plastic sheeting between theworker and bung to deflect any gas, liquid, orsolids which may be expelled as the bung isloosened.

7Wo drums with rusted bungs were opened by backhoeswith bronze spikes and now await sampling. Drum in fore­ground has been labelled "150" for sample documenta­tion purposes.

EXAMPLES

HydrochloricSulfuric

Sodium hydroxidePotassium ~roxide

Ammonium nitrateBarium nitrateSodiumch_Sodium peroxide

Sodium thiosulfateOxalic ocidSodium sulphiteTetnle!hyl _

Phenylmercuric chloride_hydrideSodium hydrideSodium metalPotassium

PCBsInsecticides

Hexaneli>lueneAcetone

Sodium carbonatePotassium chk)ride

l'o1assiumcyonideSodium cyanideCopper evanideCyanoacetarnide

Arseniceac:tmiumlJladMercury

Inorganic cyanides

Inorganics

Rammable organics

Strong oxidizing agonta

Anhydrous organica andorganornetaUics

Anhydrous inorganica endmetal hydrides

Strong I8ducing agents

ClASSIACATlON

1Oxicorganics

Ino<ganic bases

Ino<ganic_

Organic cyanides

lOxic metals

1HI Handling Drums and Other Containers

AIRIHYDRAUUC CYUNDER

55 GAL DRUM

DRAIN TO VACUUM TRUCK.~WASTE RECOVERY SYSTEMOR TANK

" 3JNAY VALVE

APPROX. 50 FT. OF HOSE

SPlASH PlATE

REPlACEABlE 316 STAINLESSSTEEL CONiCAl PlUNGER

13 IN. DIA. X 4 IN. LG.)

DOORS 12 SIDES)

BEIJ" CONVEYOR

SPill CONTAINMENT PAN &SUPPORT FRAME /75-GAL CAPACITY)

Figure 11-2. Air!Hydraulic-Operated Single-Orum Puncture Device.Source: Reference 11I.

o Open exotic metal drums and polyethylene orpolyvinyl chloride-lined IPVC-lined) drums throughthe bung by removal or drilling_ Exercise extremecaution when manipulating these containers.

• Do not open or sample individual containers withinlaboratory packs.

o Reseal open bungs and drill openings as soon aspossible with new bungs or plugs to avoid explo­sions and/or vapor generation. If an open drumcannot be resealed. place the drum into an OYer­pack. Plug any openings in pressurized drums withpressure-venting caps set to a 5-psi\POimds persquare inch) release to allow ""ming of vaporpressure.

• Decontaminate equipment after each use to avoidmixing incompatible wastes.

SamplingDrum sampling can be one of the most hazardous activi­ties to worker safety and health because it often invoI""sdirect contact with unidentified wastes. Prior to collectingany sample, develop a sampling plan:

o Research background information about the waste.

o Determine which drums should be sampled.

o Select the appropriate sampling device!s) andcontainer!sl.

Handling Drums and Other Containers 11-7

HYDRAUUC CYLWITH 6-IN. STROKE

HYDRAULK UNES

REPL.ACEABLE 316 STAINLESSSTEEl CONiCAl PWNGER

13 IN. DIA. X 4 IN. LG.I

ADAPTER BRACKET

SPIll. CONTAINMENT PAN(PORTABLE) 75-GAL CAPACITY

SPlASH PlATE

STANDARD SINGLEDRUM GRABBER

DRAIN TO VACUUM TRUCK. WASTE i I

RECOVERY SYSTEM OR TANK -----~..JNf'=r-~~-;;;::====:==-41.J•SlOPE

figure 11-3. Backhoe-Mounted Drum Puncture Device.Source: Reference (1).

• Develop a sampling plan which includes the number.volume. and locations of samples to be taken.

• Develop Standard Operating Procedures for openingdrums. sampling. and sample packaging and trans­portation. Some guidance in designing propersampling procedures can be found in References (2)and (3).

• Have a trained health and safety professional deter­mine. based on available information about thewastes and site conditions. the appropriate personalprotection to be used during sampling. decontamina­tion. and packaging of the sample.

When manually sampling from a drum. use the followingtechniques:

• Keep sampling persomel at a safe distance whiledrums are being opened. Sample only after openingoperations are complete.

• Do IIOt lean CMlr other drums to reach the drum beingsampled. unless absolutely necessary.

• CoVer drum tops with plaStic sheeting or other suit­able noncontaminated materials to avoid excessivecontact with the drum tops.

• Never stand on drums. This is extremely dangerous.Use mobile steps or another platform to achieve theheight necessary to safely sample from the drums.

• Obtain samples with either glass rods or vacUumpumps. Do not use contaminated items such as dis­carded rags to sample. The contaminants may con­taminate the sample and may not be compatible withthe waste in the drum. Glass rods should be remCMldprior to pumping to minimize damage to pumps.

CharacterizationThe goal of characterization is to obtain the data neces­sary to determine how to safely and efficiently packageand transpon the wastes for treatment and/or disposal.If wastes are bulked. they must be suffIciently character-

11-8 Handling Drums and Other Containers

sIn:DIllJIl '''S'''IZE='-­

D unknown155 aal.­2 3D aal.­lother ­specify

DIllJIl 110••="..,...__DRlJK OPEHlIlC:o unknown1 ring top2 closed top­) open top ­4 otherspeclf,

SAMPL& 110.OIllJll TYPE:o unknownI ..tal2 plastic:3 fiber4 ala..5 otberspecify

saEElIlIlG 8ESllLTS (.uEA):o unIcDo""1 rad.1oactlve2 acid!oncl1ser] caustic/reducer/cyanide ---­4 fJ.aaaable or••Die ­5 DOofl....b1e orsade:6 peroxide7 atr or vater react1ft8 iDen:

DIllJIl COLOR, PRl SEC DIlllK COtIDITIOH:D unknown -- o UDItDovn saEElIlIlG D.lTA:1 c:reaa -- I aood YES .02 clear -- 2 fair RADIOACTIVE ~ I • oYer becqround3 bIaclt 3 poor ACIDIC -- pi! ~ 34 vh1te -- --CAUSTIC pi! > 125 reel -- DIllJIl IlARIWIC DYVORIl I AIR UACTIYE -- Reactloa of > l(f'P6 sreen -- ----- te.p.. cbanae---7 blue -- DIllJIl IlARIUNC DlI/ORO 2 WATER UACTIVE Reactioo of > 10-,.8 brOlllD -- teap. c:hanae---9 pial< -- DIllJIl IlARIWIG DlI/ORD 3 1IATEi. SOLDIlL& Dlaaolye. 1D ..ter10 oranae VATER um fRio -- hading -11 yellow -- DRlJK COHTEIITS STATE: PU SEC -- ~ 10 w- -"'YeO12 ara,. -- o aaltnovn Cl»lBUSTIBIZ Catche. fire when---- --13 purple 1 aolld ----- torched 1D ..ter "tb-- --14 _ber 2 liquid HALIDE Creen f~ vbeo15 &reeD-blue- = , sludge -- -- Ileaced- with copper--4 aaa -- lIIORGAlIIC VATER um fRio aDdDIlIJll CORnIlTS COLOR: S trasb -- CXJKIUSTULE • a:»o aaltnovn • dirt -- OI.GAlIIC DIORG&lfiC • 1101 cre.. -- 7 ael -- ALCOHOL/ALDEIIYDE ---- VAtII. IA"tB a'iA.2 clear -- -- IlAtER SOLlJBL& aad--3 black -- DlWll CORnJrr .uromrr: COKBUSTDLIl: - 'Ie.4 tfb.1te -- o aaItnovn CIAIlIDE Draea:er £ube CRer5recl 1 full -- water 'Drath ~ 2 PS---6 CreeD -- 2 part ftAM«'IT' -- cmoustx.u - 'fiN. --.d.7 blue -- 3 eapty SETA flaahpoiDt ~ I4O"r8 brown -- OXIDIZER Starch lodl_ paper9 plot CllEKICAL AHALYSIS: YES .0 ---- .bova poeltl.e reaetloa--10 oraqe -- radiation lIIUr OR otIIER B.,erythiaa: "0· escept11 ,ellow 1&nitable -- -- DORGAlIIC or ORGAIIIC12 eray -- tllIlter reac:tlYe ---- --13 purple -- cyanide --14 _bet ozldlaer15 ereen-blue = oraaDie .,apor --

pII

__ w-

figure 11-4. Sample Drum Characterization Sheet.Source: EPA Region VII Emergency Planning and Response Branch.[This figure is provided only lIS an example. Values were selectedby EPA Region VII and should be modified lIS appropr;ate.1

ized 10 determine which of them can be safely combined!see Bulking later in this chapter). As a first S1ep inobtaining these dlltll, standard tests should be used 10classify the wastes "to general eategories. includingauto.-reaetives. water reaetives, inorganic acids. organicacids. heavy metals, pesticides. cyanides. inorganicoxidizers, and organic oxidizers. In some cases. furtheranalysis should be conducted 10 more precisely identifythe waS1e materials. See Figure 11-4 for an example of acharacterization sheet for drums.

When possible, materials should be characterized usingan onsite laboratory. This provides dlltll lIS rapidly lIS pos­sible, and minimizes the lime lag before appropriate actioncan be taken 10 handle any hazardous materials. AIsQ. it

precludes any potential problems associated with trans­porting samples 10 an offsite laboratory (e.g•• samplepackaging, waste incompatibility. fume generation).

If samples must be analyzed off site, samples should bepackaged on site in accordance with DOT regulations(49 CFR) and shipped 10 the laboratory for analysis.

StagingAlthough fNery 8ttempt should be made 10 minimize drumhandling, drums must sometimes be staged 0..... mlMKl inan organized manner 10 predesignated areasllO facilitatecharacterization and remedial action. and 10 protect

drums from potentially hazardous site conditions (e.g.,movement of heavy equipment and high temperaturesthat might cause explosion, ignition, or pressure bundup).Staging inwlves a trade-off between the increased haz­ards associated with drum movement and the decreasedhazards associated with the enhanced organization andaccessibility of the waste materials.

The number of staging areas necessary depends on site­specific circumstances such as the scope of the opera­tion, the accessibility of drums in their original positions,and the perceived hazards. Investigation usually involveslittle. if any, staging; remedial and emergency operetionscan inwlve extensive drum staging. The extent of stagingmust be determined individually for each site. and shouldalways be kept to 8 minimum. Up to five separate areashave been used (see Figure II-51:

• An initial staging area where drums can be(1) organized according to type. size. and sus­pected contents, and (21 stored prior to sampling.

• An opening area where drums are openedk

sampled, and resealed. locate this area a safe dis­tance from the original waste disposal or storagesite and from all staging areas to prevent a chainreaction in case of fire or explosion.

• During large-scale remedial or emergency tasks. aseparate sampling area may be set up at some dis­tance from the opening area to reduce the numberof people present in the opening area, and to limitpotential casualties in case of an explosion.

• A second st1Jging area, also known as a holdingarea, where drums are temporarily stored aftersampling pending characterization of their con­tents. Do not place unsealed drums with unknowncontents in the second staging area in case theycontain incompatible materials. (Either remove thecontents or overpack the drum.)

• A final staging area, also known as 8 bulking area,where substances that have been characterizedare bulked for transport to treatment or disposalfacilities.

locate the final staging area as close 8S possibte tothe site's exit.Grade the area and cover it with plastic sheeting.

Construct approximately l-foot-high (0.3-m-high)dikes around the entire area.

Segregate drums according to their basic chemicalcategories (acids, heavy metals, pesticides, etc.) asdetermined by characterization. Construct separateareas for each type of waste present to precludethe possibility of intermingling incompatible chemi­cals when bulking.

In all staging areas, stage the drums two wide in tworows per area (see Figure 11-6), and space these rows7 to 8 feet (2 to 2.5 m) apart to enable movement of thedrum handling equipment.

BulkingWastes that have been characterized are often mixedtogether and placed in bulk containers such as tanks orvacuum trucks for shipment to treatment or disposal

Handling Drums and Other Containers 11-9

Crushed drums awaiting landfill. Note the st1Jging ofdrums on the left in a lOW two drums wide.

facilities. This increases the efficiency of transportation.Sulking should be performed only after thorough wastecharacterization by trained and experienced personnel.The preliminary tests described earlier under Characteriza­tion provide only a general indication of the nature of theindividual wastes. In most cases, additional sampling andanalysis to funher characterize the wastes, and compati­bility tests (in which sma" quantities of different wastesare mixed together under controlled conditions andobserved for signs of incompatibility such 8S vapor gener­ation and heat of reaction) should be conducted. 8ulkingis performed at the final staging area using the followingprocedures:

• Inspect each tank trailer and remove any residualmaterials from the trailer prior to transferring anybulked materials. This will prevent reactions betweenincompatible chemicals.

• To move hazardous liquids, use pumps that areproperly rated (see National Fire Protection Associa­tion [NFPAl 70 Articles 500-503 and NFPA 497MIand that have a safety relief valve with a splashshield. Make sure the pump hoses, casings, fittings,and gaskets are compatible wrth the material beingpumped.

• Inspect hose lines before beginning work to ensurethat all lines. fittings, and valves are intact with noweak spots.

• Take special precautions when handling hoses asthey often contain residual material that can splashor spill on the personnel operating the hoses. Protect

. personnel against accidental splashing. Protect linesfrom vehicular and pedestrian traffic.

• Store flammable liquids in approved containers.

ShipmentShipment of materials to offsrte treatment, storage, ordisposcol facilities involves the entry of waste haulingvehicles into the srte. U.s. Department of Transponation(OOTI regulations (49 CFR Parts 171-178) and EPA regUla­tions (40 CFR Part 263) for shipment of hazardous

11-10 Handling Drums and Other Containers

DRUM OPENINGAND SAMPLING

AREA

....

r - - - - -.1

00 00 00I00 00 00

00 00 00

1 00 00 00 I00 00 00

I00 00 0000 00 00 100 00 00

1 SECOND STAGING 1AREA

- - - - ...J

\

\

"

- -- -,/ .......

/ "I \I \I () ,

I/

/./

----..,

r1_000 FINAL STAGING 1'---.r"""000 (BULKING) AREAL- ~

SITE EXIT

- -r- - ---, ,----.I I 00000 000000

00 O~~O 1 00000 000000 I1 000 0000 I 00000000

0000 00000000 IO?;OO O~ 1

1 00 -------.....1 0000 000 000000 .. 0000 000 0000

000 I I1 O~~ 1 gggggggggggggLOR~N~ D~M ~TE_I LFI~T S~GING A~A~

Figure 11-5. Possible Staging Areas at a Hazardous Waste Site.

Handling Drums and Other Containers 11-11

00 III 0000 .. 0000 • 0000 c 00

ROADWAY

00 III 0000 .. 00•00 c 0000 00

ROADWAY

00 III 0000 .. 00•00 c 0000 00

FIgure 11-8. Sample Drum Staging lAyout.Source: Reference Ill.

Single-stacked ewerpack drums awaiting trBnsport offsite. \\biker suited in Level C personal protective equip­ment wIll spread a tarp ewer the drums to protect themduring trBnsport.

wastes must be complied with. The following guidelinescan enhance the safety of these operations:

• Locate the final staging (bulking) area as close aspossible to the site exit.

• Prepare 8 circulation plan that minimizes conflictbetween cleanup teams and waste haulers. Installtraffic signs, lights, and other control devices asnecessary.

• Provide adequate area for onsite and hauling vehiclesto tum around. Where necessary, build or improveonsite mads.

• Stage hauling vehicles in a safe area until ready forloading with drivers remaining in cab. Minimize thetime that drivers spend in hazardous areas.

• Outfit the driver with appropriate protectiveequipment.

• If drums are shipped, tightly seal the drums prior toloading. Overpack leaking or deteriorated drums priorto shipment. (Under most circumstances, ewerpackdrums used for hazardous wastes may not be reused[49 eFR Part 173.3Iclll. Make sure that truck bedand walls are clean and smooth to prevent damage todrums. Do not double stack drums. Secure drums toprevent shifting during transport.

• Keep bulk solids several inches below the top of thetruck container. Caver loads with a layer of clean soil,foam, andlor tarp. Secure the load to prevent shiftingor release during transpon.

• Weigh vehicles periodically to ensure that vehicle androad weight limits are not exceeded.

• Decontaminate vehicle tires prior to leaving the siteto ensure that contamination is not carried onto pub­lic roads.

• Check periodically to ensure that vehicles are notreleasing dust or vapor emissions off site.

• Develop procedures for responding quickly to offsitevehicle breakdown and accidents to ensure minimalpublic impact.

Special Case Problems

Tanka 8nd Vaults

For tanks end vaults, which are often found on hazardOUSwaste sites, the following procedures are recommended:

• In general. when opening a tank or vault follow thesame procedures 8S for a sealed drum. If necessary,vent excess pressure if wlatile substances arestored. Place deflecting shields between workers andthe opening to prevent direct contamination of work­ers by materials forced out by pressure when thetank is opened.

• Guard manholes or access portals to prevent person­nel from falling into the tank.

• Identify the contents through sampling and analysis.If characterization indicates that the contents can besafely moved with the available equipment. vacuumthem into a trailer for transportation to a disposal orrecycling facility.

• Empty and decontaminate the tank or vault beforedisposal.

• tf it is necessary to enter a tank or vault (i.e., confinedspaces) for any reason (e.g., to clean off solidmaterials or sludges on the bottom or sides of thetank or vault), the follOWing precautions should betaken [4]:

Ventilate thoroughly prior to entry.Disconnect connecting pipelines.Prior to entry, take air samples to prove theabsence of flammable or other hazardous vaporsand to demonstrate that edequate levels of oxygenexist.

11-12 Handling Drums and Other Containers

Equip the entry team with appropriate respiratoryprotection. protective clothing, sefety harMSSeS.end ropes.Equip a sefety obseMlr with appropriate respira­1Dry protection, j1iOleCtiw clothing. a sefety har­ness. end rope.Establish lifeline signals prior to entry so that theworI<er end sefety obseMlr can communicete bytugs on the rope.Hew en edditional person lI\/8i1able in the immedi­ate vicinity to assist lhe sefety obseMlr if needed.Instruct the sefety obserwr not to enter lhe IIP8C8until edditional personnel ara on scene.

YIIcuum 1tucks

• Wear appropriate protective clothing end equipmentwhen opening lhe hatch.

• If possible. use mobile steps or suitable scaffoldingconsistent with 29 CFR Part 1910, Subpart D. Avoidclimbing up lhe ladder end walking across the tankcetwalk-

• If lhe truck must be climbed. raise end lower equip­ment end samples in carriers to enable worI<ers touse two hands while climbing.

• If possible. sample from lhe top of lhe ....hicle. If it isnecessary to sample from the drain spigot. take stepsto Pf8""nt spraying of excessive substances. Hew allpersonnel stend off to lhe side. H..... sorbentmaterials on hand in lhe lMlnt of a spill.

~tecI"'nks

In general, obseMl the sefety Pf8C8utions described forYllCWm trucks. In eddition:

• Use a sefety fine and harness.

• Maintain ladders and railings in accordance withOSHA requirements 129 CFR Part 1910. Subpart 01.

Camp.....ad G.. CyIIncIera

• Obtein expert assistance in moving end disposing ofcomPf8SSed gas cylinders.

• Handle compressed gas cylinders with extreme cau­tion. The ruptura of a cylinder may result in en expIo­.ion, and lhe cylinder may become a dangerousprojectile.

• Record the identificetion numbers on the cylinders toaid in characterizing their contents.

Ponds 8nd I.8gOOll8

• Drowning is • very real danger for personnel suited inprotective equipment beceuse lhe weight of protec­tiw equiPfn8nt increases en individual'. overall den­sity end severely impairs lheir swimming ability.Where there is danger of drowning, provide neces­sary safety geer such as lifeboats. tag fines, railings,nets. safety hamesses. end flotation gear.

• Wherever possible. stay on shore. Avoid going outover lhe water.

• Be ewere that some solid wastes may float end givelhe _arenee of sofKl crecked mud. Caution shouldbe exercised when working along shorelines.

References1. Mayhew. Joe J.; G.M. Sodear; end D.W. Carroll 1982­

A Hazardous Waste Site Management Plan. ChemicalManufacturers Association. Inc.. Washington DC.

2- deVera. E.R.; B.P. Simmons; R.D. Stephens; end D.LStorm. 1980. Samplers end Sampfing Procedures forHazardous Waste Streams. EPA~/2-8O-018. u.s.Environmental Protection Agency, CinciMati. OH.

3. u.s. EPA. 1984. Charecterization of Hazardous WasteSites-A Methods Manual: Volume Il AvailableSampling Methods. SecorKl edition. EPA 60014-84-{)76.

4. NIOSH. 1979. Criteria for a Recommended Standard:Working in Confined Spaces. NIOSH No. 80-106. AlsolI\/8i1able from u.s. Government Printing Office11017-()33-003~1end National1ilchnicallnforma­tion Service lPB-8O-1830151.

12. Site Emergencies

Contents

Introduction 12-1

Planning 12-1

Personnal 12-2Onsite Personnel 12-3Offsite Personnal 12-3Federal Response Organizations 12-3

Training 12-4

Emergency Recognition and Prevention 12-4

Communications 12-4Internal Communications 12-5Extemal Communications 12-5

Site Mapping 12-5

Safe Distances and Refuges 12-6Safe Distances 12-6Public Evacuation 12-6Refuges (Safety Stationsl 12-6

Site Security and Control 12-6Personal Locator Systems 12-7

Evacuation Routes and Procedures 12-7

Decontamination 12-6

Equipment 12-9

Medical TreatmentlFirst Aid 12-11

Emergency Response Procedures 12-11Notification 12-11Size-Up 12-11RescuelResponse Action 12-11Follow-Up 12-12

Ooeumentation 12-12

References 12-12

IntroductionThe nature of work at hazardous waste sites makesemergencies a continual possibility, no maner howinfrequently they may actually occur. Emergencieshappen quickly and unexpectedly and require immediateresponse. At a hazardous waste site. an emergency maybe as limited as a worker experiencing heat stress. or asvast as an explosion that spreads toxic fumes throughouta community. Any hazard on site can precipitate an emer­gency: chemicals. biologic agents. radiation or physicalhazards may act alone or in concen to create explosions.fires, spills. toxic atmospheres. or other dangerous andharmful situations. Table 12-1 lists common causes of siteemergencies.

Site emergencies are characterized by their potential forcomplexity: uncontrolled toxic chemicals may be numer­ous and unidentified; their effects may be synergistic.Hazards may potentiate one another-for example. aflammable spill feeding a fire. Rescue personnel attempt­ing to remove injured workers may themselves become

victims. This variability means that advance planning,including anticipation of different emergency scenariosand thorough preparation for contingencies, is essentialto protect worker and community health and safety.

This chapter outlines important factors to be consideredwhen planning for and responding to emergencies. Itdefines the nature of site emergencies, lists the types ofemergencies that may occur, and outlines a ContingencyPlan and its components, which include personnal roles.lines of authority. training.. communication systems. sitemapping, site security and control. refuges. evacuationroutes, decontamination. a medical program. step-by-stepemergency response procedures. documentation. andreporting to outside agencies. Backup information isdetailed in other chapters of the manual.

PlanningWhen an emergency occurs. decisive action is required.Rapidly made choices may have far-reaching, long-termconsequences. Delays of minutes can create life­threatening situations. Personnel must be ready toimmediately rescue or respond; equipment must be onhand and in good working order. In order to handle emer­gencies effectively. planning is essential. For this purpose.a Contingency Plan should be developed.

A Contingency Plan is a written document that sets forthpolicies and procedures for responding to site emergen­cies. It should incorporate the following:

• Personnel:Roles.Unes of authority.Training.

Communication.

• Site:Mapping.Security and control.Refuges.Evacuation routes.Decontamination stations.

• Medical/first aid.

• Equipment.

• Emergency procedures.

• Documentation.

• Reporting.

Overall, a Contingency Plan should:

• Be designed as a discrete section of the SiteSafety Plan.

o Be compatible and integrated with the pollutionresponse. disaster, fire. and emergency plans oflocal, state. and federal agencies.

• Be rehearsed regularly using drills and mock situ­ations.

• Be reviewed periodically in response to new orchanging site conditions or information.

12-2 Site Emergencies

Table 12-1. Causes of Emergencies at Hazardous Waste Sites--o Mi__nts (oIips.lrips. _I.

• 0MtmicaI ixposura.o Mod"ocaI p<obIemo !hUt-.. heat of

....-;sting concfrtionsl.o _ pn>tectiw equipment failure l*r -=a "lure. toaring eM'

permeation of pn>tectiw dothing. facepiece fogging).o PhyoicaI injury linjuries hom hot eM' flying objecto. _ clothing

-..angrong in machinery. Mrious taros. whicle_I.o Electrical Ibums.-. electrocution).

Wate RelatedoR...

• Explosion.o laek.

o Release of 1XlXic: vapors.o Reaction of incompatible chemicals.

o Collapse of_nora.o Diacovery of radioac:tive __Is.

Table 12-2. Personnel Involved in Emergericy Response

ProIact _1Mdero Oiracts emergency __

o Serws eo bison with~ government officials.

SIte a.twty 0ffIc:.,o IIecomo IIaMS that _ be stOPPed if .., __lion threatens

_ eM' public health eM' safety.

o KMws emergency 1J'OC8dures. _ routes. _1he~_ telephor1e numbers including: 1he ambulance. mod"ocaIfaCfTrty, poison control _. fire department. _ pur"",clepartrnent.

o Nolifios local publ"1C emergency officials.

• Provides for Mlergency mec:f1C8l care on site.Command Poet SupervtsM

o Nolifios emergency 1UPPCM't personnel by telephor1e or rod"lO incase rescue operations ... .-orad.

o Assists1he Site Safety Officer in a _ if necessary.----• An .met gene, rescue 1e8I'n stands by. parti.any dressed in protec-_ gear. near tha Elu:Iusion Zone nl8dy '" rescue ..,-.whose health eM' safety is _angered.

o State emergetICY__ parsonneIlvaries among _I.

~ Station 0ffIc:.,s

• PIIrform • 'MNgee K:f deeoo.tamination.Z4-IbIrM__

• 'I_asportation.-xl treatment of victims by embWance parsonneI,parsonneIlIllocal ermico eM' hospitals. _ physicians.

Communicadon ""SOI_.o IDcaI emergerocy aeMce netwo<1<s pnMde CCM'n_ links

.... mutual aid.o Civil Defense organizations _ local rod"lO _ ""_atetions

pnMde _ '" 1he public during ., emergency.

PersonnelThis component of the plan includes not only onsite andoffsite personnel with specific emergency response roles,but also others who may be on site, such es contractors.other agency representative., and visitors. Emergencypersonnel and their responsibilities are CO\/ered in detail inChapter 3 as part of the OYerall organizational structure.Thi. information is summarized in Table 12·2.

Emergency personnel may be deployed in a variety ofways. Depending on the nature and scope of the emer­gency. the size of the site, and the number of personnel.the emergency response cadre can include individual••small 0< large team., 0< several interacting teams.Although deployment is determined on a site-by-sitebasi•• pertinent general guidelines and recommendationsare listed below. In all case. the organizational structureshould show a clear chain-of-eommand, every individualshould know hi. 0< her position and authority, and thechain-of-eommand must be flexible enough to handlemultiple emergencies, such as a rescue and a spillresponse 0< two rescue. with a fire and spill response.

EnvirOlIlln8llUi Scleiltistao Pre<f1Ct the immediate _ future movement of released hazardous

IUbstances through the geologic _ hydrologic environment _air.

o Assess 1he affect of this II'lO\IefTl<Iflt on groundwater quality, ....face water quality. _ air quality.

• Determine the probable movement of released toxic gases.

• Estimate the expected COIK::eolbation of gases in the cornmulity_ the expected duration of exposure.

• Predict the exposure levels of people .-ld the ecosystem to thematerials.

ttaz.dous Chemicals Ea_• Provide immediate advice to those at the scene of • chemical~

related emergency.

Flrafighters

• Respond to fires that occur at a site; rescue victims.

MeteCM'oIoglsts

• Provide meteorological information needed by environmentalscientiS1S.

Public a.twty ....-o The county sheriff. induslriaI security to"",". the National Guard•

.-.cI the police control site access. CI'O'Nds. and traffic.Public Evacuation ...........

• CivIl Defense organizations plan evacuations.

• n.e National Guard .-lei other military, the Red Cross. the Sarva­!ion Army. and municipal transportation systems mobilize trarl$itequipment and assist in evacuations.

On-Scene Coordinator

• Coordinates federal response ectiVities.

Site Emergencies 12-3

liIbIe 12-3. Examples of Agencies end Groups Involved inEmergencies

Oflescue - extricating endlo< pooyiding on rgencytreatment to victims.__ - c0ntr0iiing end otlIbilizing _ conditions.<Support = providing technical sssi_ equipment. sndlorresources.~is ogency may provide on On-Scene C_inator losel,depending on the jurisdiction.

lOCAl.Ambulance and rescue

services •••Cleanup contractor • • •Disposal companies • •Fire department •••Hospital 0

Police • •Red Cross 0

Salvation Army •Transpor1en 0

Utility compamas (oIectric.Uas.-,!!h<>nel 0

RESCUE' RESPONSE" SUPPOflTC

o

oooo

o

oo

••

•

•o

••

o

o

••

•

AGENCY OR GROUP

FEOERAL

"""" Corps of EngineltfSCoast Gu<lrd"Oepartment of Defense<'Oepartment of "hnoportationEnvironmental Protection

Agency (EPA"Federal Aviation Administra­

tion IFAAIFederoI Emergency Manage­

ment Agency (FEMAI_ Institute for

OCcupational SsIety endHeolth INIOSHI

OCcupational SsIety endHeatth AdministnltiOliIOSHA)

STATECMI DeIenseOepartment of HNIthOepartment of Lebo<Envirot.mental AgencyOffice of tile Attorney

Gener8IState Police

LeaderIn an emergency situation. one person must be able toassume total control and decisiO<H118king on site. Thisleader must

o Be identified in the emergency response plan. Thisperson may be. for example, the Project Team Leader,Site Safety Officer, or Field Team leader.

o Be backed up by a specified altemate(s).

o Have the authority to resolve all disputes abouthealth and safety requirements and precautions.

o Be authorized to seek and purchase supplies asnecessary.

o Have control over activities of ewrvone entering thesite, for example, contractors, fire departments, andpolice.

o Have the clear support of management.

Onslte .............

The Contingency Plan should identify all individuals andteams who will participate in emergency response anddafine their roles. All personnel, whether directly imIoIvedin emergency response or not. should know their ownresponsibilities in an emergency. They must also knowthe names of those in authority, and the extent of thatauthority.

TeamsAlthough individuals (ag., the Site Safety Officer) mayperform cenain tasks in emergencies. in most casesteams provide greater efficiency and safety. Teams com­posed of onsite personnel may be created for specificemergency purposes. such 8S decontamination, rescue.and entry. Rescue teams can be used during a particularlydangerous operation, or at large sites with multiple workparties in the Exclusion Zone. Their sole function is toremain near hazardous work areas, partially dressed inprotective gear, ready for full suiting and immediate res­cue of any endangered worker. These teams should becapable of administering cardiopulmonary resuscitation(CPR) and emergency first aid. Other teams can beformed for responding to containment emergencies andfire-fighting until offsite assistance arrives.

Offslt..............

These may include individual experts such as meteorolo­gists or toxicologists (see Table 12-2), and representativesor groups from local, state, and Iaderal organizationsoffering rescue, response, or support Csee Table 12-3 for alisting of typical organizations). As part of advance plan­ning, site personnel should:

o Make arrangements with individual experts to provideguidance as needed.

o Make arrangements with the appropriate agencieslag.. local fire department. state environmentalagency. EPA regional office) for support.

o Alert these authorities to the types of .mergenciesthat may arise.

• Determine their estimated response time andresources.

o Identify backup facilities.

o Provide training end informetion about hazards onsite and specis' procedures for handling them.

o Establish a contact person end means of notificationat each agency.

Feclera' R_ponee Otvanlutl_

Site emergencies involving significant chamical releasesshould be coordinatad with Iaderal response organiza­tions. The Iaderal government has established a NationalContingency Plan CHCP) to promote the coordination enddirection of Iaderal end state response systems, end toencourage the development of Iocsl govenment end pri­vate capabilitias to handle chemical emergencies inv0lv­ing chamlcal releases.

12-4 Site Emergencies

To implement the NCP, a national organization was estab­lished. including a National Response Team (NRT). a net­work of Regional Response Teams (RRTs). a cadre ofOn-Scene Coordinators (OSCS). and a National ResponseCenter (NRC). The NRC is the national terminal point forreceipt of notification of significant chemical releases.and the OSCS are the interface between the onsite per­sonnel and the federal response organizations. The OSCis the federal official responsible for ensuring that neces­sary response actions are taken to protect the public andthe environment from the effects at 8 chemical release.Many federal agencies have specific technical expertisewhich is available to assist the OSc.

tf a significant chemical release occurs at a hazardouswaste site. the National Response Center in Washington.D.c.. should be contacted (Telephone: S<lO-424-8S02).The NRC will activate federal response under the NationalContingency Plan.

TrainingSince immediate, informed response is essential in anemergency. all site personnel and others entering the site(visitors. contractors. offsite emergency response groups.other agency representatives) must have some level ofemergency training. Any training program should:

• Relate directly to site-specific, anticipated sffiJations.

• Be brief and repeated often.

• Be realistic and practical.

• Provide an opportunity for special skills to bepracticed regularly.

• Feature drills frequently (e.g.• site-specific mockrescue operations).

• Ensure that training records are maintained in a train­ing logbook.

Everyone entering the site must be made aware of thehazards and of hazardous actions which are forbidden orshould be avoided (e.g•• smoking). They must also knowwhat to do in case of an emergency.

Visitors should be briefed on basic emergency proceduressuch as decontamination, emergency signals, and evacua­tion routes.

Personnel without defined emergency response roles (e.g.,contractors. federal agency representatives) must stillreceive 8 level of training that includes at a minimum:

• Hazard recognition.

• Standard Operating Procedures.

• Signaling an emergency: the alarm used. how tosummon help. what information to give and who togive it to.

• Evacuation routes and refuges.

• The person or station to report to when an alarmsounds.

Onsite emergency personnel, who have emergency rolesin addition to their ordinary duties. must have a thorough'"lderstanding of emergency response. Training should be

directly related to their specific roles and should includesubjects such as:

• Emergency chailHlf-<:ommand.

• Convnunication methods and signals.

• How to call for help.

• Emergency equipment and its use.

• Emergency evacuation while wearing protectiveequipment.

• Removing injured personnel from enclosed lIIl8C8S-

• Offsite suppon and how to use it.

These personnel should obtain certification in first aid andCPR. and practice treatment techniques regularly. with ..emphasis on:

• Recognizing and treating chemical and physicalinjuries.

• Recognizing and treating heat and cold stress.

Offsite emergency personnel such as local firefighters andambulance crews often are first responders and nm e riskof acute hazard exposure equal to that of any onsiteworker. These personnel should be informed of ways torecognize and deal effectively with onsite hazards. Lackof information may inadvertently worsen .. emergencyby improper actions (e.g•• spraying water on e water­reactive chemical and causing .. explosion). Inadequateknowledge of the onsite emergency chailHlf-<:ommandmay cause confusion and delays. Site managementshould. at a minimum. pmvide offsite emergency per­sonnel with information about

• Site-specific hazards.

• Appropriate response techniques.

• Site emergency procedures.

• Decontamination procedures.

Emergency Recognition and PreventionOn a day-tlHlay basis. individual personnel should beconstantly alert for indicators of potentially hazardoussituations and for signs and symptoms in themselves andothers that wam of hazardous conditions and exposures.Rapid recognition of dangerous situations can evert ...emergency. Before daily work assignments, regular meet­ings should be held. Discussion should include:

• Tasks to be performed.

• Time constraints (e.g.• rest breaks. air tank changes).

• Hazards that may be encountered. including theireffects. how to recognize symptoms or monitorthem. concentration limits, or other danger signals.

• Emergency procedures.

After daily work assignments, a debriefing session shouldbe held to review work accomplished end problemsobserved.

CommunicationsIn an emergency. crucial messages must be COfMIY8dquickly and eccurately. Site staff must be eble to commu-

Site Emergencies 12-5

Table 12-4. Sample Internal Emergency CommunicationSignals

-All devices and equipment used in the Exclusion and Contamina­tion Reduction Zones must be intrinsically safe and not capableof sparking.

• All personnel must be familiar with the protocol(phone number or emergency code. contact per­son) for contacting public emergency aid teamssuch as fire depamnents, ambulance units, andhospitals.

• "there is no site telephone system, all personnelmust know the location of the nearest public tele­phone. A supply of telephone change and thenecessary phone numbers must be readilyavailable.

Site MappingDetailed information about the site is essential for ad­vance planning. For this purpose. a site map is 8 valuabletool. It serves as a graphic record of the locations andtypes of hazards, a reference source, and a method ofdocumentation. This map can be a duplicate of the onedeveloped for the Site Safety Plan (see Chapter 3), but itshould focus on potential areas where emergencies maydevelop. Pins and colored flags can be used to marlechanges in personnel deployment, hazard areas, andequipment locations. The map should highlight:

• Hazard areas, especially potential IDLH conditions.

• Site terrain: topography, buildings, barriers.

• Evacuation routes.

• Site accessibility by land, sea, and air.

• Work crew locations.

• Changes (e.g., work activities, vandalism, accidents).

• Offsrte populations or environments at potential risk.

The map can be used for planning and training. It canserve as a basis for developing potential emergencyscenarios and alternative response strategies.

Established code words.

One long blast Evacuate area bynearest emergency exit.

Two short blasts: lDcalized problem(not dangerous to workersl.

Two long blasts: all clear.

Hand clutching throat Out of airlcan't breathe.

Hands on top of head: Needassistance.

Thumbs up: OK/I'm alright/I understand.

Thumbs down: No/negative.

Grip partner's wrist or both handsaround partner's waist LBavearea immediately.

EXAMPlE

Radio (citizen's band or FM)

Noisemakers, including:BellCompressed air homMegaphoneSirenWhistle

Visual signal. including:Hand signalsWhole body movements

DEVICES' ANDSiGNALS

A special set of emergency signals should be set up.These should be:

• Different from ordinary signals.

• Brief and exact.

• Umited in number so that they are easilyremembered.

Examples include: stop. evacuate, help. all clear. Any setof signals may be used to convey these messages as longas all personnel understand their meaning. See Table 12-4for examples.

When designing and practicing communication systems.remember that:

• Background noise on site will interfere with talkingand listening.

• Wearing personal protective equipment will impedehearing and limit vision (eg., the ability to recog­nize hand and body signalsl.

• Inexperienced radio users may need practice inspeaking clearly.

E_I Communications

Offsite sources must be contacted to get assistance or toinform officials about hazardous conditions that mayaffect public or environmental safety. The telephone is themost common mode of offsite communication; phonehook-ups are considered a necessity at all but the mostremote sites.

• The National Response Center INRC) (Telephone:800-424-88021 should be contacted in the eventof a significant chemical release. The NRC willcontact the appropriate federal On-Scene Coor­dinator.

Internal Communications

Internal emergency commlJnication systems are used toalert worleers to danger, convey safety information, andmaintain site control. Any effective system or combina­tion may be employed. Radios or field telephones areoften used when worle tearns are far from the CommandPost. Alarms or short clear messages can be conveyed byaudible signals, eg., bullhorns, megaphones, sirens, bells,whistles. or visual signals such 85 colored flags.. flares.lights, and hand or whole-body movements. The primarysystem must have a backup. For example, hand signalsmay be used as a backup if radio communications fail.All internal systems should be:

• Clearly understood by all personnel.

• Checked and practiced daily.

• Intrinsically safe (sparle-freel.

nicate information such as the location of injured person­nel, orders to evacuate the site, and notice of blockedevacuation routes. even through noise and contusion.Outside suppon sources must be reached, help obtained,and measures for public notification ensured, if neces­sary. To do this. a separate set of internal emergency sig­nals should be developed and rehearsed daily. Extemalcommunication systems and procedures should be clearand accessible to all workers.

12-6 Site Emergencies

When an emergency occurs, the problem areas should bepinpointed on the map. Pertinent infonnation- such asweather and wi!,,! concfltions, temperature, and forecast-should be added. The map can then be used to designthe emergency plan. llQ., to define zones; determineevacuation routes; and identify emergency first-aid.decontamination. and Command Post stations. Whenusing the map for such purposes. the accuracy of thedata obtained and the potential for OIIer- or underestimat­ing a hazard should be considered.

Ewn if the emergency develops so fast that the map can­not be used for on-the-spot planning, prior familiarity withit wl1l aid in making informed decisions.

Safe Distances and Refuges

Safe DIstances

No single recommendation can be given for evacuation orsafe distances because of the wide variety of hazardoussubstances and releases found at sites. For example, a"small" chlorine leak may call for an isolation distance ofonly 140 feet (43 metersI. wh~e a "large" leak mayrequire an evacuation distance of 1 mile 11.6 lulometers)or more. depending on the wind direction [1].

Safe distances can only be detennined at the time of anemergency, based on a combination of site- and incident­specific factors. However. planning and outlining potentialemergency scenarios will help familiarize personnel withpoints to consider. Factors that influence safe distancesinclude:

• The toxicological properties of the substance.

• The physical state of the substance.

• The quantity released.

• The rate of release.

• The method of release.

• The vapor pressure of the substance.

• Vspor density relative to air.

• Wind speed and direction.

• Atmospheric stability.

• The height of release.

• Air temperature and temperature change withaltitude.

• Local topography (llQ., barriers may enhance orretard a cloud or plume, and attentuate a blast).

PublIc Encuatlon

If an incident may threaten the health or safety of the sur­rounding community. the public will need to be informedand possibly evacuated from the area. Site managementshould plan for this in coordination with the appropriatelocal. state and federal groups. such as the Federal Emer­gency Management Agency, the Civil Defense, countysheriff. local redio and television stations, municipal trans­portation systems, National Guard. and police.

Refuges (Saffty lItational

Onsite refuges (safety stations) can be set up for local­ized emergencies that do not require lite evacuation.These refuges should only be used for essential needs,such as short rest breaks, emergency response stnrtegymeetings, or temporary relief during m~d cases of musclestrain and heat stress. The refuge should be located in arelatiwly safe, but not necessarily "clean" are.a. llQ~along the upwind fence line in specially cleared places oron the periphery of the Exclusion Zone.' The refugeshould never be used for activities such as eating. drink·ing. or air changes. l\tpical items located in a refuge areainclude:

• A sitting/resting area that should be shaded ifpossible.

• Water for decontamination.

• Wind indicator.

• Communication system with the Command Post.

• Rrst-aid supplies. llQ., eyewash. stretcher. blanket.

• Special monitoring devices IllQ.• extra detector tubesand personal monitorsI.

• Bolt cutters.

• Rre extinguishers.

• Hand tools.

Other refuges can be set up in the Support Zone, or in thecase of site-wide evacuations. offsite at the safe exit des­tination. These will provide for emergency needs such asfirst aid for injured personnel, clean dry clothing and washwater for chemical exposure victims. and communica­tions with the Command Post. In a _ide evacuation.they can be used to house evacuation exit equipment.thereby reducing security problems. These refuges shouldbe stocked with such items as:

• Decontamination supplies.

• Oxygen and/or air.

• Water.

• Special testing equipment IllQ.. pH paper, cyanidepaperl.

• First-aid supplies.

• Communication system.

Site Security .nd ControlIn an emergency. the Project Team .....der (or designatedrepresentatiwl must know who is on lite and must beable to control the entry of personnel into the hazardousareas to prevent additional injury and exposure. Onlynecessary rescue and response personnel should beallowed into the Exclusion Zone.

One control technique is a checkpoint or ""ries of check­points through which an personnel entering or exiting the

'In en .. i .. g&I tC't. 85 in daily work. ectivities, the IIite is dividedinto three areas: Exclusion lcontaminatedl Zone. ContominationReduction Zone. and Support Icleanl ZOne (aea Chapter 9. Sir.Conrro/l.

lite must pass, eg., a Suppon Zone c:h8ckpoint end anElcclusion Zone checkpoint. ldentificetion or euthorimtionmust be pl8Sented to a Checkpoint Control Maneger, whonICOfda lI8Ch person's:

• Name land effilietion if offsite per$ON>8l1.

• Stetus Pn or out).

• TIme of entry.

• Anticipated exit time.

• Zones or ereas to be entered.

• Team or "buddy:'

• Tesk being performed.

• Locetion of task.

• Ploteetiwt equipment worn; air time left.

• Rescue end response equipment used.

The lIrtl8flI8ncy area Checkpoint Control Meneger shouldinform the Project leam Inder if a person remains in theemergency area beyond his or her anticipated exit time.

...-.on.I Loc.tor .,atWi.taIn en amergency, it is vital for the Project leam Inder lordesignee) end rescue personnel to IlIpidly determinewhere workers alll located end who may be injured. Apessive locator system Pa, a written record of the loca­tion of all personnel on site et any time) could be used tohelp find personnel in an emergency. Any such systemshould be:

• GllIphic lauch as a drawing with a written kay).

• Roughly drawn to seele, with the seele end visiblelandmarks included.

• Kept eunent.

• Easy to locate.

• Stored outside the Elcclusion Zone.A good passive locator system is a lite map with flags orcoIor-headed pins identifying each worker.

Active locator systems can also be used. These ere wornor carried bv ind"lVidual personnel. end ere activated bvactions such es flipping a switch. a decreese in air supply,or a fall. They have the advantage of Ilf8CiseIy locatingind"lViduals.

EY8cuadon Routes and ProceduresA _Ill amergency, such es a filll or explosion. may cutworkers off from the normel exit near the Command Post.Therefore. altemet8 routes for avecueting victims endendangered personnel should be established in advance.marked, end kept clear. Routes should be directedI') from the Elcclusion Zone through en upwind Contami­n8tion Reduction Zone to the Support Zone. end (2) fromthe Suppon Zone to an offsite location in case conditionsnecassitete a general site avecuetion. The followingguidelines wJ1l help in establishing seta 8V8CUetion routes.

• PIaca the 8V8CUetion routes in the predominantlyupwind direction of the Exclusion Zone. !At a wrylarge site, or one with many obstacles. some exits

Site Emergencies 12-7

may be placed in the downwind fanceline, nor­mally an undesilllble location. If this is done,workers must know that they are not "out" untilthey reech the designeted safety area.)

• Run the avecuetion routes through the Contamine­tion Reduction Zone. Even if there is not enoughtime to process the aveCU88S through decontami­nation procedures. there should be a mechanismfor accounting for ell personnel.

• Consider the eccessibility of potential routes. liIkeinto account obstructions such as locked getes.trenches. pits. tanks. drums. or other barriers, andthe extra time or equipment needed to meneuveraround or through them.

• Develop two or more routes that Ieed to safe ereasend that are separate or remota from each other.Multiple routes are necessary in cese one isblocked bv e fire, spill, or vapor cloud. Theseroutes must not overlap because if a commonpoint _re obstructed bv a fire or other amer­gency, all intersecting routes would be blocked.

• Mark routes usafe" or Unot safe" on 8 daily basiseccording to wind direction and other factors.

• Marte. evacuation routes with materials such asbarricede tape, flagging, or treffic cones. Equallyimportant. mark areas that do not offer safeescape or that should not be used in an emer­gency. such as low ground, which can fill withgases or vapors, or routes blocked bv natural bar­riers, such as cliffs or streams.

• Consider the mobility constraints of personnel_aring protective clothing and equipment. Theywill have difficulty crossing even small streamsand going up and down banks.

Place ladders ecross any cut or excavation that ismore then 3 feet (' meter) deep. For long cuts,place ladders et least every 25 feet (7.5 meters).end for deep cuts, place plywood or planks on topof ledders.

Provide ladders for rapid descent from areas orstructures elevated more than 3 feet (1 meter).Use only ledders capable of supporting a 25O-lb1114-kg)load.Secura ladders to prewnt slipping.Place standard cleated ramps ("chickenboerd")across ditches and other similar obstacles. Add arailing and toe boerds if the boerd is narrow orsteeply sloped.

Check the toe and body clearance of ladders tomake sure thet personnel _aring protective cloth­ing and SCBA can use them.Check the clearance of access ports. such ascrawlspaces. hatches. manholes, and tunnels tomake sure that personnel _aring a protectiveensemble can get through. In any case, eccessports should be et least 3 feet (1 meter) in diameterwhere possible. (Standard tank manways aresmaller.)

• Make escape routes known to all who go on site.

12-8 Site Emergencies

AccidentJlnjury Event

YES NO Perform Life-SavingProcedures

NO YES

Grossly DecontaminateIIIld/or Cover or WrapContaminated Areas

YES

Report to Superiors forInstructions

NO

Decontaminate as Much as 14 N:..:...:O:.......~Possible

YES 14----------------------1

Transport to MedicalFeCllity

figure 12-1. Decision Aiel for Emergency Decontamination.

DecontaminationWhen planning for decontamination in medical emergen­cies. procedures 8hou1d be developed for.

• Decontaminating the victim.

• Protecting medical personnel.

• Disposing of contIIminated protective equipment endwash 8OIutions.

These ectivities IfQlId be coordinated. The decision

whether or not to decontaminate a victim is based on thetype end severity of the illness or injury and the nature ofthe contIIminant. For some emergency victims. immediatedecontamination may be en essential part of life..savingfirst aid. For others. decontamination may aggravate theinjury or delay life..saving treatment. If decontaminationdoes not Interfere with essential treatment. it 8hou1d beperformed. Figure 12·1 is a decision aid for emergencydecontamination.

• If decontamination can be clone:

Site Emergencies 12-9

Wash, rinse and/or cut off protective clothing andequipment.

• "decontamination cannot be done:

Wrap the victim in blankets, plastic, or rubber toreduce contamination of other personnel.Alert emergency and offsite medical personnel topotential contamination: instruct them aboutspecific decontamination procedures if necessary.Send along site personnel familiar with theincident.

See Chapter 9, Decontamination, for details on decon­tamination techniques and procedures.

EquipmentIn an emergency, equipment will be necessary to rescueand treat victims, to protect response personnel, and tomitigate hazardous conditions on site (e.g., to containchemicals or fight fires). Some regular equipment candouble for emergency use. Because of its high cost. mostheavy equipment I"".. bulldozers, drum movers, pumpsIemployed in emergencies will also be used for regularwork assignments. All equipment should be in workingorder, fueled, and available when an emergency occurs.Provide sefe and unobstructed access for all firefightingand emergency equipment at all times. Consider adoptingthe following work procedures:

• Refuel all heavy equipment when there is still one­half to DnlHIUarter of a tank of fuel left.

• Require all equipment repairs to take place at thetime the problem is discOllered.

• Separate two similar pieces of equipment I"".. twofront-loaders or a bulldozer and a front-loader); parkeach at a different spot on site and do not use them

at the same time in 8 hazardous area unless abso­lutely necessary. (This will minimize the possibility ofboth pieces of equipment being damaged in the sameexplosion or fire.1

For personal protective equipment:

• Refill all empty self-contained breathing apparatus(SCBA) tanks and prepare them for emergenciesimmediately after normal use.

• Stock higher levels of protective equipment thanrequired for anticipated hazards (e.g.• a site wherelevel C equipment is normally used [see Table 8-61should have level A and B equipment available foremergencies).

Basic equipment that should be available at any site islisted in Table 12-5. Special equipment should be obtaineddepending on the specific types of emergencies that mayoccur at a particular site and the capabilities -of backupoffsite personnel. For example, if the nearest fire depan­ment is small and only carries one bucket of foamingsolution because of its high cost and short shelf-life. asite may need to stock a large quantity of foam. Whendetermining the type and Quantity of special equipment.the following factors should be considered:

• The types of emergencies that may arise. For eachemergency, consider a probable and a worst-casescenario.

• The types of hazards that site personnel may beexposed to and the appropriate containment.mitigative. and protective measures.

• The capabilities and estimated response times ofoffsite emergency personnel.

• The number of site personnel who could be vic­tims during an emergency.

• The probable number of personnel available forresponse.

liIb1e 12-5. Onsite Equipment and Supplies for Emergency Response

PERSONAL PROTECTION MEDiCAl HAZARD MITIGATION

• Escape SCBA or SCBA. which canbe brought to the victim toreplace or supplement his or herSCllA

• Personal protective equipmentand clothing specialized forknown aita hazards

• Air splints

• Antiseptics

• Blankets• Decontamination sotutions appropriate

for ons;m chemical hazards

• Emergency eye wash

• Emergency showers or wash stations

-Ice• Reference books containing basic

first-aid procedures .-.d information ontreatment of specific chemical injuries

• Resuscitator

• Safety harness• Stretchers

• water. in portable containers

• Wire basket litter (Stokes Utter) whichcan be used to carry 8 victim in badweather end on • difficult terrain. allowseasy decontamination of the victim. andis itself easy 11) decontaminate

• Fire-fighting equipment and supplies

• Spill-eontainment equipment. suchas absorbents and oil booms

• Special hazardous-use tools such asremote pneumatic impact wrenches.nonsparking wrenches and picks

• Containers to hold contaminatedmaterials

12-10 Site Emergencies

Notify onsite personnelabout the incident

•Size up the situation based

on available information

•Z Request aid from0 outside sources-~ •II:

if Allocate personnel

III and equipmentII: resources for responseL , t

Survey and assessSurvey and assess

existing and potential I--casualtieshazards,

III

G!~fI)

z victims0L

~ri~te Dec~t~minatefI)III Victims Victims

~Evacuate Evacuate

)lII: site nearby Contain ExtingUiSh)personnel public hazard hazard

TransPDn andtreat victims

• tReplace or rejuvenate damaged

L or exhausted equipment~ •~ Document the... incident0...

~Review and revise Site Safety

and Contingency Plans

figure 12-2. Emergency Response Operations.

Site Emergencies 12-11

Medical Treatment/First AidIn emergencies, IOxic exposures and hazardous situationsthat cause injuries and illnesses will vary from site 10 site.Medical treatment may range from bandaging of minorcuts and abrasions 10 rofe-savlng techniques. In manycases. essential medical help may not be immediatelyavailable. For this reason. it is vitellO lnIin onsite _­gency personnel in on-the-spot tJeatment techniques. toestablish and maintain telephone contact with medicalexperts (llQ., IOxicologists), and 10 establish liaisons withlocal hospitels and ambulance services. Guidelines forestablishing an emergency medical program are deteiledin Chapter 5. When designing this program. these essen­tial points should be included:

• Train a cadre of personnel in emergency treatmentsuch as first aid and CPR. Training should bethorough, frequently repeated, and geared tosite-specific hazards.

• Establish liaison with local medical personnel, forexample: 24-hour on-<:all physician, medicalspecialists, local hospitals. ambulance service. andpoison control center. lrlfonn and educate thesepersonnel about sitlHpecifiC hazards so that theycan be optimally helpful if an emergency occurs.Develop procedures for contacting them; familia­rize all onsite emergency personnel with theseprocedures.

• Set up onsite emergency first-aid stations; seethat they are well supplied and restocked immedi­ately after each emergency.

Emergency Response ProceduresResponse operations usually follow a sequence thatstarts with the notification of trouble and continuesthrough the preparation of equipment and personnel forthe next emergency. This process is illustrated inFigure 12-2.

NotIfIcdon

Alert personnel 10 the emergency. Sound a site alarm 10:

• Notify personnel.

• Stop work activities if necessary.

• lDwer background noise in order to speed communi­cation.

• Begin emergency procedures.

Notify onsite emergency response personnel about theemergency and include essential irlfonnation:

• What happened.

• Where it happened.

• Whom it happened to.

• When it happened.

• How it happened.

• The extent of damage.

• What aid is needed.

saz.upAvailable information about the incident and emergencyresponse capabilities should be evaluated. The followinginformation should be determined, to the lIXt8nt possible:

• What happened:

1YPe of incident.Cause of incident.Extant of chemical releasa and lnInapon.Extent of damage to structures, equipment. andterrain.

• Casualties:

Victims lnumber, location, and conditionl.Treatment required.Missing personnel.

• What could happen. Consider:

Types Of chemicals on site.Potential for fire, explosion. and release of hazard­ous substances.location of all personnel on site relative to hazard­ous areas.Potential for danger to offsite population orenvironment.

• What can be done. Consider:

Equipment and personnel resources needed for vic­tim rescue and hazard mitigation.Number of uninjured personnel evanable forresponse.Resources available on site.Resources available from outside groupa andagencies.Time for outside resources to reach the site.Hazards involved in rescue and response.

R........R_ActIon

Based on the evanable information, the type of actionrequired should be decided and the necessary stapaimplemented. Some actions may be done concurrently.No one should attempt emergency response or rescueuntil backup personnel and evacuation routes have beenidentified. Rescue/response actions may include:

• Erlforce the buddy ayatem: Allow no one to enter an.Exclusion Zone or hazardous area without a partner.At all times, personnel in the Exclusion Zone shouldbe in lin<H>f-sight or communications contact withthe Command Post Supervisor or designee.

• SurYB'f casualties:

lDcate all victims and assess their condition.Determine resources needed for stabilization andtranspon.

• Assess existing and potential hazards 10 site person-nel and to the offsita population. Determine:

Whether and how 10 respond.The need for evacuation of site personnel and off­aite population.The resources needed for evacuation and response.

12-12 Site Emergencies

•

o Allocate resources. Allocate onsite personnel andequipment to rescue and incident response oper­ations.

o Request aid. Contact the required offsite personnel orfacilities, such as the ambulance. fire department.and police.

o Control. Bring the hazardous situation under c0m­

plete or temporary control; use measures to preventthe spread of the emergency.

• Extricate. Remove or assist victims from the area.

o Decontaminate. Use established p<ocedures todecontaminate uninjured personnel in the Contamina­tion Reduction Zone. If the emergency makes thisarea unsafe. establish a new decontamination area atan appropriate distance. Decontaminate victimsbefore or after stabilization as their medical conditionindicates lsee Figure 12-1 for decision aid).

o Stabilize. Administer any medical procedures that arenecessary before the victims can be moved. Stabilizeor permanently fix the hazardous condition leg.,repack; empty filled runoff dikes). Anend to whatcaused the emergency and anything leg., drums,tanks) damaged or endangered by the emergency.

•• Transport. Take measures to minimize chemical

contamination of the transport vehicle andambulance end hospital personnel. Adequatelyprotected rescuars should decontaminate the vic­tims before transport. If this is not possible. coverthe victims with adequate sheeting. Before trans­portation, determine the level of protection neces­sary for transport personnel. Provide them withdisposable coverells. disposable gloves, end sup­plied air. as necessary, for their protection. Ifappropriate. have response personnel accompanyvictims to the medical facility to advise on decon­tamination.

• Evacuate:

Move site personnel to a safe distance upwind ofthe incident.Monitor the incident for significant changes. Thehazards may diminish, permitting personnel toreenter the site. or increase end require publicevacuation.Inform public safety personnel when there is apotential or actual need to evacuate the offsitepopulation. Do not attempt Iarge-scale publicevacuation. This is the responsibility of govemmentauthorities lsee Table 12-3).

Follow-Up

Before normal site activities are resumed. personnel mustbe fully prepared and equipped to handle anotheremergency.

o Notify appropriate govemment agencies asrequired. For example. OSHA must be notified ifthere have been any fatalities or five or morehospitalizations.

o Restock all equipment and supplies. Replace orrepair damaged equipment. Clean and refuelequipment for future use.

o Review and revise all aspects of the ContingencyPlan according to new site conditions and lessonsIeamed from the emergency response. Whenreviewing the information, consider typical ques­tions such as:

Cause: What caused the emergency?Prevention: Was it preventable? If so. how?Procedures: Were inadequate or incorTect ordersgiven or actions taken? Were these the result ofbad judgment. wrong or Insufficient information. orpoor p<ocedures? Can procedures or training beimproved?Sita profile: How does the incident affect the siteprofile? How are other site cleanup activitiesaffected?Community: How is community safety affected?Uability: Who is rl8b1e for damage payments?

•DocumentationThe Project Team lBader should initiate the investigationand documentation of the incident. This is important in allcases, but especially so when the incident has resulted inpersonal injury. onsite property damage. or damage to thesurrounding environment. Documentation may be used tohelp avert racurrances. as evidence in future legal action.for assessment of Iiab~ityby insurance companies, andfor review by govemment agencies. Methode of docu­menting can include a written transcript taken from taperecordings made during the emergency or a bound fieldbook (not a looseleaf book) with notes. The documentmust be:

o Accurate: All information must be recorded objec­tively.

o Authentic: A chain-of-eustody procedure shouldbe used. Each person making an entry must dateend sign the document. Keep the number ofdocumentors to a minimum Ito IMlid confusionand because they may have to give testimony athearings or in court). Nothing should be erased. Ifdetails change or revisions are needed. the personmaking the notation should mark a horizontal linethrough the old material and initial the change.

o Complete: At a minimum. the following should beincluded:

Chronological history of the incident.Facts about the incident end when they becameavailable.Title and names of personnel; composition ofteams.Actions: decisions made and by whom; ordersgiven: to whom, by whom. and when; and actionstaken: who did what. when. where. and how.1YPes of samples and test results; air monitoringresults.I'bssible exposures of site personnel.History of all injuries or illnesses during or as aresult of the emergency.

References1. u.s. Department of ltansportation. 1984. DOT 1984

Emergency Response Guidebook. DOT P5800.3. us.Department of lransportation, Washington, DC.

Appendix A. Ust of Abbreviations and Acronyms

em'co.dBAftgg-molehrIIb

cubic centimeter

carbon dioxidedecibels on A-weighted scalefootgramgram-mole

hourliter

pound

m'mgmlmremO.psi

ppbppmtata adj

cubic meter

milligrammillilitermilliroentgen equivalent in manoxygenpounds per square inchparts per billionparts per millionambient air temperature

adjusted ambient air tamperature

lJst of Acroe"IIlS NFPA National Fire Protection Association

ACGIH American Conference of Govemmental NIOSH National Institute for Occupational Safety

Industrial Hygienists and Health

ANSI American National Standards InstituteOSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administratiol"

CAA Clean Air Act OVA organic vapor analyzerCBC Complete blood countCERCLA Comprehensive Environmental Response. PAPR powered air1lUrifving respirator

Compensation, and Liability Act PCB polychlorinated biphenyl(also called Superfund) POS personnel decontamination station

CFR Code of Federal Regulations PEL permissible exposure limitCGI combustible gas indicator PlO photoionization detectorCNS central nervous system P1'E personal protective clothing and equipmentCPR cardiopulmonary resuscitation PVC polyvinyl chlorideCRC Contamination Reduction CorridorCRZ Contamination Reduction Zone RBC red blood count

REl recommended exposure limitEPA U.s. Environmental Protection Agency RV residual w1umeESU end~-service-life indicator

SAR supplied-air respiratorFEF forced expiratory flow SCBA self-contained breathing apparatusFlO flame ionization detector SOP Standard Operating ProcedureFRC functional residual capacity

TLC total lung capacityGC gas chromatography TlV threshold limit value

TlV-e threshold limit value-ceilingIOLH immediately dangeroUs to life or health TlV-STEl threshold limit value-IR infrared shon·term exposure limit

TWA time-weighted averageLEl lower explosive limitLFl lower flammable limit UEl upper explosive limit

UFl upper flammable limitMEFR maximal expiratory flow rate USCG U.S. Coast GuardMSHA Mine Safety and Health Administration UV ultravioletMW maximal voluntary ventilation

Location _

Appendix B. Generic Site Safety Plan

This appendix provides a generic plan based on a plan developed by theU.S. COast Guard for responding to bazardous chemical releases. l Thisgeneric plan can be adapted for designing a Site Safety Plan for hazardouswaste site cleanup operations. It is not all inclusive and should only beused as a gUide, not a standard.

A. SITE DESCRIPTIONDate _

HazardsArea af:-:::f,...e-ct~ed-:-------------------------------

Surrounding population __

TopographyWeather co~n-:d7i:-t7io=ns-------------------------------

Additional information, ___

B. ENTRY OBJECTIVES - The objective of the initial entry to the contaminatedarea is to (describes actions, tasks to be accomplished; i.e., identifycontaminated soil; monitor conditions, etc.)

C. ONSITE ORGANIZATION AND COORDINATION - The folloWing personnel aredesignated to carry out the stated job functions on site. (Note: Oneperson may carry out more than one job function.)

PROJECT TEAll LEADERSCIENTIFIC ADVISlR ----------------------------

SITE SAFETY OPPICERPUBLIC INPORMATION ":O~P~P~I'=C=ER::-------------------------SECURITY OPPICER _RECORDKEEPERPINANCIAL Op::P::I:::C=ER~--------------------------

PIELD TEAM LEADER'=- . _PIELD TEAll MEMBERS, _

lU,S. Coast Guard. Policy Guidance for Response to HazardOUS ChemicalReleases. USCG Pollution Response COMDTINST-Ml6465.30.

8-2 Append..,c 8

PBDBRAL AGBNCY UPS (i.e., BPA, RIOSH)

STATE AGENCY UPS

LOCAL AGBNCY UPS

CONTRACTOR( S)

All personnelRecordkeeper.Leader.

arriving or departing the site should log in and out with theAll activities on site aust be cleared through the Project Teaa

D. OtlSITB COtlTROL

(Rame of individual or agency has heen designated to coordinateaccess control and security on site. A safe periaeter has heen establishedat (distance or description of controlled area)

So unauthorized person should be within this area.

The onsite Command Post and staging area have heen established at _

'fhe prevailing wind conditions are 'from tbe Bzc1usion Sone.

This location is upwind

Control boundaries have heen established, and the Bzc1usion Sone (thecontaainated area), hotline, Contaaination Reduction Sone, and Support Sone(clean area) have heen identified and designated as follows: (describeboundaries and/or attach aap of controlled area)

'rhese boundaries are identified by: (urking of zones, i.e .. red boundarytape - hotline, traffic cones - Support sone; etc.)

Appendix B B-3

B. HAZARD EVALUATION

The following substance(s) are known or suspected to be on site. The primaryhazards of each are identified.

Substances Involved

(chemical name)

Concentrations (If Known) primary Hazards

(e.g., toxic oninhalation)

The follOWing addi tional haza rds are expected on site: _..!.(,:;i.:..;:.e,:..L'...:s"'l"'i:,lpp=e.:.r....y _ground, uneven terrain, etc.)

Hazardous substance information fora(s) for the involved substance(s) havebeen completed and are attached.

r. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE IlQUIPMENT

Based on evaluation of potential hazards, the followingprotection have been designated for the applicable work

Location

bclusion zone

ContaminationReduction Zone

Job Function

levels of personalareas or tasks:

Level of Protection

A B C D OtherA B C D otherA B C D OtherA B C D other

A B C D otherA B C D otherA B C D OtherA B C D Other

SpeCific protective equipment for each level of protection is as follows:

Level A Fully-encapsulating suitSCBA

(diSposable coveralls)

Level C Splash gear (tyPe)Full-face canister resp.

Level B SplaSh gear (type)SCRA

Level D

other _

<

8-4 Appendix 8

The following protective clothing aaterials are required for the involvedsubstances:

Substance

(chellical nalle)

Material

(material nalle, e.g., Viton)

If air-purifying respirators are authorized,appropriate canister for use with the involvedA competent individual has determined that allrespiratory protection have been met.

(filtering medium) is thesubstances and concentrations.criteria for using this type of

RO CHARGBS '1'0 TIIB SPBCIPIED LEVELS OP PROTBCTIOti SHALL BB IlADE WITHOOT THBAPPROVAL OP THE SITE SAFBTY OPPICER AND THE PROJECT TEAM LEADER.

G. OtISITB WORIt PLANS

Work party(s) consisting of persons will perform the following tasks:

Project Teall Leader __.J.(,::n:::am=e....) _

Work Party n

Work Party t2

Rescue Team(required forentries to IDLl!environments)

DecontaminationTeam

(function)

The work party(s) were briefed on the contents of this plan at '

OUt of air, can't breatheLeave area iamediately

Appendix 8 8-6

H. COMMUNICATION PROCEDURES

Channel has been designated as the radio frequency for personnel in theExclusion Zone. All other onsite cOIllIDunications will use channel _.

Personnel in the Exclusion zone should remain in constant radio CORmunicationor within sight of the Project Team Leader. Any failure of radiocommunication requires an evaluation of whether personnel should leave theExclusion Zone.

(Horn blast, siren, etc.) is the emergency signal to indicate that allpersonnel should leave the Exclusion Zone. In addition, a loud hailer isavailable if required.

The following standard hand signals will be used in case of failure of radiocommunications:

Hand gripping throat ----------­Grip partner's wrist or ------------

both hands around vaistHands on top of head ------------- Need assistanceThumbs up --------------- ,------- OK, I am all right, I understandThumbs down ---------------------- No, negative

Telephone communication to the COmmand Post should be established as soon aspracticable. The phone number is •

I. DECONTAMINATION PROCEDURES

Personnel and equipment leaving the Exclusion zone shall be thoroughlydecontaminated. The standard level decontamination protocol shall beused with the following decontamination stations: (1)(2) (3) (4) (5) _

(6) (7) (8) (9)(10) Other _

Emergency decontamination will inclUde the following stations: _

The fOllowing decontamination equipment is required:

__-=(.::N~0~rma=.:1.:.1...y-d:::.e::.t::.e=r9:1;e::;n:.:.t::...:a=:n.::d~va=t:::e~r'")~ will be used as the decontaminationsolution.

J. SITE SAFETY AND HEALTH PLAN

1.directlysite.

(DalIle) is the designated Site safety Officer and isresponsible to the Project Team Leader for safety recommendations on

B-6 Appendix B

2. Emergency Medical care

(names of qualified personnel) are tbe qualified BKTs on site.(medical facility names) , at (address) ,

phone is located minutes from tbis location.(name of person) was contacted at (time) and briefed on

tbe situation, tbe potential hazards, and tbe substances involved. A aapof alternative routes to tbis facility is available at (noraally commandPost) •

Local 8lllbulance service is available frOlll atphone • 'fbeir response time is minutes.Mbenever possible, arrangements sbould be ..de for onsite standbY.

First-aid equipment is available on site at tbe following locations:

First-aid kitEmergency eye wasbEmergency sbover

(otber)

Emergency medical information for substances present:

substance Bxposure meto.s First-Aid Instructions

List of e.ergency phone numbers:

contactPbone tAgency/FacilityPoliceFireBospital _

AirportPublic Bealtb Advisor __

3. Environmental Monitoring

Tbe following environmental monitoring iostrwaents sball be used on site(cross out if not applicable) at tbe specified intervals.

CombUstible Gas Indicator02 MonitorColorimetric TUbes

(type)

- continuous!bourly/daily/otber _- continuous!bourly/daily/otber _- continuous!bourly/daily/otber _

IINO/OVAOtber _

- continuous!bourly/daily/otber _- continuous!bourly/daily/otber __- continuous!bourly/daily!otber _

Appendix B B-7

4. Emergency Procedures (should be modified as required for incident)

The following standard emergency procedures will be used by onsitepersonnel. The Site Safety Officer shall be notified of any onsiteemergencies and be responsible for ensuring that the appropriateprocedures are followed.

Personnel Injury in the Bxclusion Zone: Upon notification of an injury inthe Bxclusion Zone, the designated emergency signal __~~ __shall be sounded. All site personnel shall assemble at thedecontamination line. The rescue team will enter the Bxclusion Zone (ifrequired) to r~ove the injured person to the hotline. The Site SafetyOfficer and project Team Leader should evaluate the nature of the injury,and the affected person should be decontaminated to the extent possibleprior to movement to the Support Zone. The onsite EXT shall initiate theappropriate first aid, and contact should be made for an ambulance aridwith the designated medical facility (if required). No persons shallreenter the BXclusion zone until the cause of the injury or symptoms isdetermined.

Personnel Injury in the support Zone: Upon notification of an injury inthe Support zone, the Project Team Leader and Site safety Officer willassess the nature of the injury. If the cause of the injury or loss ofthe injured person does not affect the performance of site personnel,operations may continue, with the onsite B"T initiating the appropriatefirst aid and necessary follow-up as stated above. If the injuryincreases the risk to others, the designated emergency signal

shall be sounded and all site personnel shall -ave~t~o~tLh~e~d~ec~o~n~t=am~ina~t~i~o~n~line for further instructions. ActiVities on sitewill stop until the added risk is removed or minimized.

Pire/Bxplosion: Upon notification of a fire or explosion on site, thedesignated emergency signal shall be sounded andall site personnel assembled at the decontamination line. The firedepartment shall be alerted and all personnel moved to a safe distancefrom the involVed area.

Personal Protective EQuiPment Pailure: If any site worker experiences afailure or alteration of protective equipment that affects the protectionfactor, that person and his/her buddy shall immediately leave theBxclusion Zone. Reentry shall not be permitted until the equipment hasbeen repai red or replaced.

Other Bquipment Pailure: If any other equipment on site fails to operateproperly, the Project Team Leader and Site safety Officer shall benotified and then determine the effect of this failure on continuingoperations on site. If the failure affects the safety of personnel orprevents completion of the Work Plan tasks, all personnel shall leave theBxclusion Zone until the situation is evaluated and appropriate actionstaken.

8-8 Appendix 8

The following emergency escape routes are designated for use in thosesituations where egress from the Bxclusion Zone cannot occur throughthe decontamination line: (describe alternate routes to leave area inemergencies)

In all situations, when an onsite emergency results in evacuation of theBxclusion Zone, personnel shall not reenter until:

1. The conditions resulting in the emergency have been corrected.2. The hazards have been reassessed.3. The Site Safety Plan has been reviewed.4. Site personnel have been briefed on any changes in the Site Safety

Plan.

5. Personal Monitoring

The following personal monitoring will be in effect on site:

Personal exposure sampling: (describe any personal sampling proqramsbeing carried out on site personnel. This would include use of samplingpumps, air monitors, etc.)Medical monitoring: The expected air temperature will be (·P) Ifit is determined that heat stress monitoring is required (mandatory ifover 70·p) the following procedures shall be followed:

(describe procedures in effect, i.e., monitoring bodY temperature, bodyweight, pulse rate)

All site personnel have read the above plan and are familiar with itsprovisions.

Site Safety Oficer ..:.("'naJD="'e...) _Project Team Leader.~-------------other Site Personnel. _

(signature)

Appendix C. Sample Hazerdous Substance Information Form

COMMON NAME: C,BEIUCAL NAME: _

I. PBYSICAL/CBUICAL PROPERTIESSOURCE

Natural physical state: Gas Liquid Solid_____(at ambient temps of 20°C-25°c)Molecular weight ~g/g-mole _Density8 g/mlSpecific gravitya @:' oP/oC _Solubility: water @, ,oP/OC _Solubilityb: @,' op/oC _Boiling point 0p/oc --------Melting point 0p/oCVapor pressure __-:lIIll!Ig@, oP/oC----------Vapor density @, oP/oC _Plash point 0p/oC _

(open cup,--__, closed cup,--__)Other: _

II. BAZARDOUS CHARACTERISTICS

A. TOXICOLOGICAL BAZARD BAZARD?

Inhalation Yes NoIngestion Yes NoSkin/eye absorption Yes NoSkin/eye contact Yes Nocarcinogenic Yes NoTeratoqenic Yes NoMutagenic Yes NoAquatic Yes NoOther: Yes No

B. TOXICOLOGICAL BAZARD BAZARD?Combustibility Yes NoTozic byproduct(s): Yes No

CONCENTRATIONS(PEL, TLV, other)

CONCENTRATIONS

SOURCE

SOURCE

PlammabilityLPLUPL

EXplosivityLELUEL

Yes No

Yes No

8Qnly one is necessary.bpor organic compounds, recovery of spilled material by solvent extraction may

require solubility data.

C-2 Appendix C

c. lUlACTIVITY &AZARD

Reactivities:

D. CORROSIVIn &AlARD

pb-...,...---Reutralizing agent:

S. JW)I~CTIVB &AlARDBackgroundAlpha particlesBeta particlesGamma radiation

&AlARD?Yes Ro

&AlARD?Yes Ro

&AlARD?Yes RoYes RoYes RoYes Ro

CONCEIlTRATIOtlS

~CBNTRATIOtlS

BXPOSORB RATS

SOURCE

SOtJRCS

SOURCS

III. DBSCRIPTIOtl OP IRCIDB!IT:Quantity involved _Release inforaation _

Konitoring/saapling recOllllllended _

IV. UCOM!IB!lDBD PROTBCTIOR:Worker _

Public

v. RBa»IXBNDSD SITS ~fIlOL:

Hotline _

Decontuination line _

CoIUland Post location _

VI. RBPBRBRCBS FOR SOURCBS:

Appendix C C-3

SAIlPLB IIAlARIlOOS SOBSTAIlCB I1IFORfIATION P01UI PILLBD OUT FOR VIIlYL CHLORIDB

COMMON 1IAJlE: I/;"yl CJ./or; J~ eBBIIICAL NMlB: CJ.,/cro~fI,~/l~

I. PllYSICAL!CHBXICAL PROPBR'l'IBSSOURCB

Natural physical state: Gas"'/ Liquid Solid CHit"- - -(at ambient temps of 20-C-2S-C)"2. S'"Molecular weight q/g-aole CHIt'£

DensityA q/.lSpecific gravitya t1.9'~1 @ "'1.0 -Ft(§) CHeIIA 1>"Solubility: vater S4ttl~ @ -F/-C CHCIllt p"Solubilityb: t:llcoS,.1 So;',, @ -F/-C CHE"M. C>1L.

Boiling point 'f:'Z. ~-C CH~IS

Melting point -'2Jl'1.~ ·r ·C CItR,sVapor pressure ~I:JQO amIlg @ oz.o -F~ CNC"M 1>,.:.Vapor density 1.."10- @ -P/-C NFP~

Flash point -, 'Q -F-<:V eNRo'S(open cup ............ ; closed cup )

Other: PoIy...~i~S rc~J;7 I .. ~ir fI,.J _fpr t:1HMTADs

II. HAIAllDOOS CBARAC'RRISTICS

A. TOXICOLOGICAL HAZARD

InhalationIngestionSkin/eye absorptionSkin/eye contactcarcinogenicTeratogenicMutagenicAquaticOther: _

HAZARD?

(h;) NoYes No

~e No

Ye NoYes NoYes NoYes NoYes NoYes No

CONCENTRATIONS SOURCE(PEL, TLV, other)

PEl.- T1o'/I 'f!r"/ny,TttIIt 'S1I~1I'\:.....-.....:.O~jf{.:::;"';,ol/:..;.":.;;C:.::G:.;:IJf!-

Sl"rn c:rOH/tIfTAPS

!tatl H I DSHA

B. TOXICOLOGICAL HAZARD HAZARD?Collbustibility ~YeS NoTozic byproduct(s): Ye NoPoyJro?" cS,/or;Je.rltos~~, &;lr'oA.. ,.,.o~o)<;Je

Flammability (!es) NoLFLUFL

Bzplosivity Yes NoLBLOBL

CONCENTRATIONS SOURCE

OH"'TAl:>s

Aonly one is necessary.bFor organic compounds, recovery of spilled material by solvent eztraction aayrequire solubility data.

C-4 Appendix C

C. REACTIVITY HAZARD HAZARD] CONCENTRATIONS SOURCE@NO

Reactivities:Po1'lltt,,;us I" alf, CHIt/$"

""""'fll.+ _r J,'A rD. COIlROSIVI'fi HAZARD HAZARD] CONCENTRATIONS SOURCE

ph Yes(§)Reutralizinq agent:

B. RADI01.CTIVB HAZARDBackgroundAlpha particlesBeta particlesGlIJIllIla radiation

HAZARD]

yes!YesYesYes Ro

BXPOSORE HATE SOURCE

Ill. DBSCRIPTION OF IRCIDBIIT:

Quantity involved /, DOO /J..rRelease inforaation ~"Sf!d<d u.It:l:J

1I0nitoring!samplinq recommended _

IV. RBCOIOIBNDBD PROTBCTIOR:

Worker l.~wl E pnt4!eh·.,.,. j>,.,'kd;'~ree.-M_,,,C/,J. cPE or V.'hA.-

el..t'A,.,., ,"""-kn',,,/r-Public _

V. RBCOi'iIIilRDBD SIft CONTROL:Hotline _

Decontamination line _

Command Post location _

VI.

Appendix D. Sample Decontamination Procedures forThree Typicel Levels of Protectiona

F.S.O.P. No. 7

Process: DECONTAMINATION PROCEDURES

INTRODUCTION

1.1 The objective of these procedures is to minimize the risk ofexposure to hazardous substances. These procedures were derivedfrom the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of&!ergency and Remedial Response's (OERR), -Interill StandardOperating Safety Guides (revised Sep. 82)-. This version of theguides is in a fonnat that is more appropriate for use in thefiel d.

1.2 Protective equipment must be worn by personnel when responseactivities involve known or suspected hazardous substances. Theprocedures for decontanrlnating personnel upon leaving thecontaminated area are addressed for each of the EPA, OERRdesignated levels of protection. The procedures given are forthe IIIxialllll and minimm amount of decontamination used for eachlevel of protection.

1.3 The lIaximum decontamination procedures for all levels ofprotection consist of specific activities at nineteen stations.Each station emphasizes an illportant aspect of decontamination.When establishing a decontamination line, each aspect should beincorporated separately or combined with other aspects into aprocedure with fewer steps (such as the Minimum DecontaminationProcedures) •

1.4 Decontamination lines are site specific since they are dependentupon the types of contamination and the type of work activitieson site. Acooling station is sometillles necessary within thedecontamination line during hot weather. It is usually alocation in a shaded area in which the wind can help to coolpersonnel. In addition, site conditions may permit the use ofcooling devices such as cool water hose, ice packs, cool towels,etc. When the decontamination line is no longer required,contaminated wash and rinse solutions and contaminated articlesmust be contained and disposed of as hazardous wastes incompliance with state and federal regulations.

aSource: Excerpted from Field Standard Operating Procedures for the Decon­tsmination ofResponse Personnel (FSOP 7J. EPA OffICe of Emergencyand Remedial Response, Hazardous Response Support Division,WaShington, DC. January 1985.

0-2 Appendix 0

P.S.O.P. Ro. 7

PROCESS DECON PROCEDURES

IlAXIIlUM DECOIl'l'M1IHA'1'ION LAYOtr'l'

LEVEL A PROTECTION

EXCLUSIONZONE

Fece PieceRemoval

Inner GloveWah

Inner GloveRinse

Inner ClothingRemoval

In_GloveRemoval

Suit/Safety BootWah

Fully Encepsuleting Suitend Hard Het Remove(

SCBA BackpeclcRemoyel

Suitl'Safety BootRi....

Safety BootRemoval

Outer GloveRemoval

SUPPORTZONE

CONTAMINATIONREDUCTION

ZONE

Tenk QUlnge 9}4---fInC! Redress· Boot Cover!

Outer Gloves

Boot CoverTepe lit

Removel GloveWah Segi .... lIOd4 ,"--_r3· 2~~ Equipment

Boot Cover lit Drop______-+- +-_.;.;,;;.;;.;;.;,;; G~lov;;.e;;.;,;R..i....;;;.__HOnlNE _

CONTAMINATION-----------l-----------CONTROL LINE -

Appendix 0 0-3

r.s.o.p. Ro. 7

PROCBSS DBCON PROCEDURES

IlAXIJroM DBCONTAMINATION LAYOtJT

LEVEL B PROTECTION

EXCLUSIONZONE

SegregatedEquipment

Drop

Inner GloveWash

Inner GloveRemoval

Inner ClothingRemoval

Inner GloveRinse

Splash SuitRemoval

Face PieceRemoval

SCBA BackpackRemoval

Safety BootRemoval

SuitlSCBAlBootlGloveRinse

SuitlSafety BootWash

Outer GloveRemoval

CONTAMINATIONREDUCTION

ZONE

Tank O1ange 9}4--{and Redress - Boot CoverI

Outer Gloves

Boot CoverTope 8<

Removal Glove Wash

3 2Boot Cover 8:Glove Rinse_____+ r_.:.::::::::.::.._...::::.:::.::~:::.--HOTLINE -

SUPPORTZONE

0-4 Appendix 0

l.S.O.P. No. 7 ,PROCBSS DBCOIl PROCBDURES

MAXIIIOIl DBCONTAMINATION LAYOllT

LEVEL C PROTECTION

SegregatedEquipment

Drop

EXCLUSIONZONE

TapeRemoval

4,~---.

Face PieceRemoval

Inner GloveRinse

Inner GloveRemoval

Inner GloveWash

Safety BootRemoval

Splash SuitRemoval

Suit/Safety BootRinse

SuitlSafety BootWash

Outer GloveRemoval

FieldWash

CONTAMINATIONREDUCTION

ZONE

C8nister orMask Change 9J-1---{and Redr.... Boot Cover'

Outer Gloves

Inner Clothing

•-i__R.em.ov_a.1 CONTAMINATION

CONTROL LINE -

Boot Covera.

Glove Wash

2~-..

t Boot era.Glove Rinse

------;---~-------------HOTLINE-

SUPPORTZONE

Appendix 0 0-5

P.S.O.P. No. 7

PROCBSS DBCOR PROCBDURBS

IIINIMUM DBCONTAIIINATION LAYOUT

LBVBLS A • B PROTECTION

RemoveBootsIGloves

andOuter

GarmentsIFor Disposal8nd Off SiteDecontamination)

Can(32 gallon)

20

WINO DIRECTION

20°

1Tank

Otange-OverPoint

DeconSolution

@({f}

I Redress: Boot Cove..I 8nd Outer Gloves

w Iz::; Ib I Can~ I 110 gallon)

w I~ Ib I~ I

RemoveBoot Cove..

8nd Outer Gloves

Waterr-------...."

PlasticSheet

EquipmentDrop

REMOVESCBA

Appendix 0

P.S.O.P. Ro. 7

PROCESS DECOR PROCEDORI!S

IlIRlMOM DECORTAIlIRA'l'ION LAYOUT

LEVEL C PROTEC'rIOtl

I Redress: Boot CovenI ond Outer GI.....

Can(32 gallon)

RemoveBootsIGl.....

ondOuter

Garments(For Disposalond Off SiteDecon..... inationl

Icartridge or Canisll!r

0Iange-()verPoint

Water

DeconSolution

@@

III I~ Ib I CanX I (to pllonl

III I~ Ib IX I

PlasticSheet

EquipmentDrop

..

REMOVEMASK

Appendix 0 0-7

EQUIPIoENT NEEDED TO PERFORM MAXIMUM DECONTAMINATION MEASURES FOR LEVELS A. B. AND C

Statfon 1: a. Yarlaus Sfze Containersb. Plastic Linersc. Plastic Drop Cloths

Statfon 2: a. Containers (20-30 Gallons)b. Decon Solutfon o~ Detergent ..aterc. 2-3 Long-Handled, Soft-Brlstled

Scrub lrusllos

Station 3: a. Containers (20-30 Gallons)OR

High-Pressure Spray Unitb. IIaterc. 2-3 Long-llancl1ed, Soft-Irl stled

Scrub lrushes

Station 4: a. Containers (20-30 Gallons)b. Plastic Lfners

Station 5: a. Containers (20-30 Gallons)b. Plastlc.Llnersc. Bench or Stools

Statfon 6: •• Containers 120-30 Gallons)b. Plastfc Liners

Statfon 7: •• Containers (20-30 Gallons)b. Decon Sol uti on or Detergent ..aterc. 2-3 Long-liandled. Soft-Irl stled

Scrub lrushes

Station I: •• Contafners (20-30 Gallons)OR

HI gh-Pressu re Spray Unl tb. IIaterc. 2-3 Long-Handled. Soft-Irl stled

Scrub lrushes

Station 9: •• Af r Tanks or Face !lasts andcartrldge Depending on Level

b. Tapec. loot Coversd. &1oves

Statfon 10: •• Containers (20-30 Gallons)b. Plastic Linersc. Bench or Stool sd. Boot Jack

Station 11: a. Rackb. Drop Clothsc. Bench or Stools

Station 12: a. Table

Station 13: a. Basin or Bucketb. Decon Solutfonc. S1Ull Table

Statfon 14: a...aterb. Basin or Bucketc. SIUll Table

Station 15: a. Containers (20-30 Gallons)b. Plastic Liners

Station 16: a. Containers 120-30 Gallons)b. Plastic Liners

Station 17: a. Containers (20-30 Gallons)b. Plastic Liners

Station lB: a. waterb. Soapc. S1Ull Tabled. Basin or Buckete. Field Showersf. Towels

Station 19: a. Oresslng Trailer Is leeded fnIncleoent Weather

b. Tablesc. thai rsd. Lockerse. Cloths

EQUIPMENT NEEDED TO PERFORM MINIMlJII DECONTAMINATION MEASURES FOR LEVELS A. B. AND C

Station 1: a. Yarlaus Size Containersb. Plastic Lfnersc. Plastic Orop Cloths

Statfon 2: a. Containers 120-30 Gallons)b. Decon Solutionc. Rinse Waterd. 2-3 Long-Handled, Soft-Brlstled

Scrub Brushes

Station 3: •• Containers 120-30 Gallons)b. Plastic Lfnersc. Bench or Stools

Station 4: a. Air Tanks or Masks andcartrldges Depending Upon Level

b. Tapec. Boot Coversd. Gloves

Station 5: a. Contafners 120-30 Gallons)b. Plastic LInersc. Bench or Stools

Station 6: a. Plastic Sheetsb. Basin or Bucketc. Soap and Towelsd. Bench or Stools

Statlon 7: a. waterb. Soapc. Tablesd. wash BasIn or Bucket

D-8 Appendix D

FSOP 7: MAXIMlJoI MEASURES FOR LEVEl A DECONTAMINATION

Stltion 1: 5egregated Equf_ntDrop

Stltion 2: Boot Cover andGl Oft IIlIsh

Stltion 3: Boot Cover andGloYe IInse

Stltfon 4: Tipe .....1

Stltfon 5: Boot CoverR..,YIl

Stltion 6: Outer GlaveReooY.l

Stltion 7: Suit and BootIIlIsh

Stltion 8: Suit.nd Boot

Stltfon g: T.nt Cllange

Stltfon 10: Safef;y BootReooy.l

Stltfon 11: Fully Enc.psul.tfngSuft and Hard Hat....Y.l

Stltion 12: SC8A Blc:tpact_y.l

Stltfon 13: Inner Glo.e IIIsh

Stltion 14: Imer Glove Rfnse

Stltfon 15: Face Piece Reooy.l

Stltfon 16: Inner GloYeReooy.l

1. Deposft equf_nt lISed on sfte (tools. _11ngdeYfces and contlfners • .,.,ftorfng fnsm-nts.radfos. clipboards. etc. I on plastic drop clothsor fn dffferent contafners with pl.stfc 11ners.Ourfng hot .....ther operatfons. a cool downstltfon .., be set up withfn this 1rH.

2. Scrub outer boot covers and glaves wi th deeonsolution or detergentllflter.

3. IInse off deeon solutfon frc. stltion 2 usfngcopfous ..,unts of water.

4. ....ve tlpe around boots and gloves .nd cIeposf tfn contlfner with pl.stfc Hner.

5. R""",ve boot covers and deposit fn contlfnerwith plastfc liner.

5. Reoove outer gloves .nd deposft fn contalllerwith pl.stic Hner.

7. lIash enc.psul.tfng suft and boots usfng scrubbrush and deeon solutfon or detergent/water.Repeat IS ..", tf_s as necessary.

8. Rfnse off deeon solutfon uSfng water. Repe.t IS..", ti_s as necessary.

g. If In Ifr tlnk change fs desfred. thfs fs thelast step fn the deeonta-fnatfon procedure.Afr tint fs exchanged. _ outer gloves and bootCOYers donned. Ind jofnts tlped. IIorker returnsto c1uf;y.

10. Reooye safef;y boots Ind deposft fn contlfnerwith pllstlc Hner.

11. Fully enclpsullted suft Is reooved withIssfstlnce of I helper and lafd out on I dropcloth or hung up. Hard hat Is ,.....,yed. Hotwither rest Stltfon ..ybe set up withfn thfslrea for personnel returnfng to sfte.

12. Whfle still Wiring f.cepfece. reooYe backpackand place on table. Ofsconnect hose frc.regulator Yllve Ind proceed to next stltfon.

13. IIlsh with deeon solutfon that win not haru theskfn. Repeat.s often as necessary.

14. Rfnse with Ulter. Repeat as "11)' tfues asnecessary.

15. Rl!IlIOve flC<! pfece. Deposft fn contlfner withplastfc Hner. Ayofd touchfng flee with ffngers.

16. Rl!IlOYe fnner gloves .nd deposft fn contafnerwith 11ner.

Appendix 0 0-9

FSOP 7: MAXIMIJI MEASURES FOR LEVEl.. A DECONTAMINATION

Station 17: Inner ClothingRew>vIl

Station 18: Field IIIsh

Station 19: Redress

17. Il!IIOve clothln9 Ind place In Hned container.Do not wlr Inner clothing off-site since thereIs I possibility thlt snaIl .-ounts ofcontalnonts .Ight hive been trlnsferred Inre80Ylng the fully-enclpsulltln9 suit.

18. Shower If highly toxic. stln-corroslve or skln­absorblble _terlll s Ire known or suspected tobe present. IIIsh hinds Ind flee If shoMer Isnot IYlnlble.

19. Put on cleln clothes.

FSOP 7: MINIMUM MEASURES FOR LEVEL A DECONTAMINATION

Station 1: Equipooent Drop

Station 2: Outer Gll'IEnt.Boots, Ind Gl oves""sh Ind Rinse

Statlon 3: Outer Boot IndGl ove Rew>vIl

Station 4: Tint CIIInge

Station 5: Boot. GlovesInd Outer GI....,ntRl!IIOvll

Station 6: SCBA Rl!IIOvll

Station 7: Field ""sh

I. Deposit equlpooent used on-site (tools. _Hngdevices Ind containers • .,nitDring hls~nts.

rldios, clfpboards. etc.) on pllstic dropcloths. segregation It the drop reduces theproblbilff;y of cross contuinotion. Ouring hotWither operltions. cool down stations aybe setup within this arN.

2. Scrub outer boots. outer 910ves Ind fully­enclpsulltlng suit with decon solution ordetergent Ind Wlter. Rinse off using copious80Unts of water.

3. IleIaove outer boots Ind gloves. Deposit incontainer with plastic lfner.

4. If ....rker INves Exclusion Zone to change lirtanto this Is the last step in thecleconU-lnotion procedure. IIorker's lir tant Isexchanged, .- outer 910ves Ind boot coversdonned. jol nts taped, Ind ....rter returns to duty.

5. Boots. fully-enclpsulltlng suit. Inner 910vesrI!IIOved Ind deposited In separate containersl;ned with pllstic.

6. SC8A backpack Ind flcepiece Is rI!IIOved (Ivoldtouching face with fingers). SC8A depositedon pllstic sheets.

7. HInds ond flce Ire thorougllly WIshed. Shower ISsoon IS possible.

0-10 Appendix 0

FSOP 7: MAXIMUM MEASURES FOR lEVEL B DECONTAMINATION

SUltfon 1: Segregated [quf....ntDrop

SUltfon 2: Boot Cover andGlove Wash

SUltfon 3: Boot Cower andGlove Rfnse

SUltfon 4: Tlpe Re.anl

SUltfon 5: Boot CowerR...,wIl

SUltfon 6: Outer GloverMOwll

SUltfon 7: SUft Ind safetyBoot Wish

SUltfon 8: SUft. SCBA. Boot.Ind Glowe Rf nse

SUltfon 9: Tlnk Change

SUltfon 10: safety BootRe.awil

SUltfon 11: SCBA Bad<pad<Re.awil

SUltfon 12: Splash SuftRe.anl

SUltfon 13: Inner Gl owe Wash

SUltfon 14: Inner Glowe Rfnse

SUltfon 15: flee Piece Remonl

SUltfon 16: Inner GloweRe.anl

1. Deposft equf ....nt used on sfte (tools. suplfngdewfces Ind conUlfners. ""ftoring fllS~nts.rldfos. clfpboards. etc.) on plastfc dropcloths or fn dffferent conUlfners with pl.stfcliners. Segregatfon.t the drop reduces theprobabfl fty of cross-eontMfnltfon. During hot.Ither operltfons. coolclown sUltfons IIQ' lie setup withfn this .re••

2. SCnlb outer boot cowers .nd ,lOYes wi th deconsolutfon or detergent .nd water.

3. Rfnse off decon solutfon f .... statfon 2 IISfngcopf OIlS .,unts of water.

4. Re.awe U1pe .round boots and ,lowes and deposftfn conUlfner with plastfc liner.

5. Re.awe boot cowers and deposft fn conUlfnerwith pllstfc lfner.

6. R...,we outer glowes .nd deposft fn contafnerwith pl.stic liner.

7. Wash ct-fc.l-resisUlnt spl.sh suft. SC8A.gloves .nd safety boots. SCrub with l~nd1escrub brush Ind decon solutfon. lIrap SCBAregulator Iff IIelt ...nted type) with plastfc tokeep out water. Wash bad<pad< .s......l' withsponges or cloths.

8. Rfnse off decon solutfon usfng copfous _tsof water.

9. If ..,rker leawes exclusfon zone to change .frU1nk, this fs the l.st step fn thedeconu-fnltion procedure. IIorker's .fr tant fsexchanged. new outer glowes .nd boot coversdonned. and jofnts taped. Worker retums toduty.

10. ""'we safety boots .nd deposft fn conUlfnerwith plastfc liner.

11. IIhfle still .Iring facepfece • ...-owe back­pack and pllce on U1ble. Dfsconnect hose froooregulator valYe.

12. IIfth assisUlnce of helper. reowe spl.sh suft.Deposft fn conUlfner with plastfc liner.

13. Wash fnner glowes with decon solution.

14. Rfnse fnner glowes with water.

15. Re.awe face pfece. Deposft fn conUlfner withpl.stfc liner. Awofd touchfng face with ffngers.

16. Remowe fnner glowes .nd deposft fn contafnerwith liner.

Appendix D D-11

FSOP 7: MAXIMtJI MEASURES FOR LEVEL B OECOHTNoIINATlON.

SUtlon 17: Inner ClothingR...,vol

SUtion 18: Field \lash

.SUtion 19: Redress

17. Rf!IIIOve Inner clothing. Place In conUlner withliner. Do not wear Inner clothing off-sitesince there Is a posslbillty that saa11 UIOuntsof conU.lnants .Ight have been transferred Inreooving the fully-encapsulatlng suit.

18. Shower If highly toxic, skln-eorroshe or skln­absorbable ..terlah are k.-n or suspected tobe present. Wash hands and face If shower 15not available.

19. Put on clean clothes•

FSOP 7: MINIMtJI MEASURES FOR LEVEL B OECONTAMINATION

SUtion 1: Equlp-ent Drop

SUtion 2: Outer Garwent,Boots, and GlovesWash and Rinse

SUtion 3: Outer Boc.t andGlove _vol

SUtion 4: Tank Change

SUtion 5: Boot, Glovesand Outer Garwent_val

SUtion 6: SCM RetIIOvol

SUtlon 7: Field Wash

1. Deposit equlponent used on-site (tools, ...,lIngdevices and containers. mnftorfng instn-ents.radios, clipboards, etc.l on plastic dropcloths. Segregation at the drop reduces theprobability of cross conta.lnatlon. Ourlng hotweather operations, cool clown sUtion ..y be setup within this area.

2. SCrub outer boots, outer gloves and chemlcal­reshunt splash suit with deeon solution ordetergent water. Rinse off using copious..aunts of water.

3. Re-ove outer boots and gloves. Deposit Incontainer with plastic liner.

4. If worker leaves.excluslve zone to change airU'*. thh Is the last step In thedeeonta.ination procedure. IIorker's air U'* 15exchanged. new outer gloves and boot coversdonned. joints taped, and worker returns to duty.

5. Boots. chemical-resistant splash suit. Innergloves re.oved and deposited in separatecontainers llned with plastic.

6. SCM backpack and facepiece 15 reooved. Avoidtouching face with finger. SCBA depositedon plastic sheets.

7. Hands and face are thoroughly washed. Shower assoon as possible.

D-12 Appendix D

FSOP 7: MAXIMtJoI MEASURES FOR LEVEL C DECONTAMINATION

Station 1: segrated Equl.-ntDrop

Station 2: Boot Cover andGl ove llash

Station 3: Boot Cover andGlove Rinse

Station 4: Tape. Rt!Blval

Station 5: Boot CoverRt!Blval

Station 6: Outer Gl oveRt!Blval

Station 7: Suit and Bootllash

Station 8: Suit and Boot.and Glove Rinse

Statlon 9: canister orMast Chlnge

Statlon 10: Slfe~ BootRt!Blval

Station 11: Splash SuitRt!Blval

Statlon 12: Inner GloveRinse

Statlon 13: Inner GlovelIash

Station 14: Face PleeeRetDOval

Station 15: Inner GloveRt!Blval

1. Deposit equi.-nt used on site (tools. saoplfngdevices and containers • .",itoring instn8ents.radios. clipboards. etc.) on plastic dropcloths or In different containers with plastl~

liners. Segregation at the drop reeluces theprobabilf~ of cross conu-lnotion. Ouring hot""ather operations. a cool -. station -.y beset up within this area.

2. Scrub outer boot covers and gloves with deconsolution or detergent and water.

3. Rinse off deeon solution f .... station 2 usingcopious ..,unts of vater.

4. Rt!Blve tape around boots and gloves and depositin container with plastic liner.

5. Rt!Blve boot covers and deposit in containerswith plastic liner.

6. Rt!Blve outer gloves and deposit in containerwith plastic liner.

7. lIash splash suit. gloves. and safe~ boots.Scrub with long-llandle scrub brush and deeonsolution.

8. Rinse off deeon solution using vater. Ilepeat as..ny tiES as necessary.

9. If worker leaves ~xc1usfon zone to changecanister (or ..sk). this Is the last stepin the deeontallinatlon procedure. IIorker'scanister Is exchanged. new outer gloves and bootcovers donned. and joi nts taped worker returnsto du~.

10. Rt!Blve safe~ boots and deposit In containerwith plastlc liner.

11. With assistance of helper. rt!Blve splashsuit. Deposit in container with plastic lfner.

12. Wasil Inner gloves with deeon solution.

13. Rinse Inner gloves with vater.

14. 1leIDo"", face pfeee. Deposft in container withplastic liner. Avoid touching face with fingers.

15. Rt!Blve inner gloves and deposit in linedcontafner.

Statlon 17: Ffeld lIash

Statlon 16: Inner C1 othl ngR..,val

Appendix D

FSOP 7: MAXIMUM MEASURES FOR LEVEL C DECONTAMINATION

16. R...,ve clothlng soaked llfth persplraUon andplace ln 11ned contalner. Do not ""ar lnnerclothlng off-slte slnce there ls a posslbl1ltythat ...11 ~unts of contallllnants ~ght havebeen transferred ln I'8Ovlng the fully­encapsulatlng sult.

17. Shower lf hlghly toxlc. skln-corroslve or skln­absorbable ..terlals are known or suspected tobe present. lIash hands and face 1f shower 15not avanable.

Stotfon 18: Red.-ess 18. Put on clean clothes.

FSOP 7: MINIMUM MEASURES FOR LEVEL C DECONTAMINATION

D-13

Statlon 1: Equlpoent Drop

StaUon 2: Outer "'_nt.Boots. and GloveslIash and Rl nse

Statfon 3: Outer Soot andG1 ove Rl!IIlOval

Statton 4: Can1ster orllask Change

Statfon 5: Soot. Glovesand Outer "'_ntR...,val

StaUon 6: Face PfeceRl!IIlOval

Statfon 7: Ffeld lIash

1. Deposft equfplll!nt used on-sfte (tools. sUlp11ngdevices and containers • .,nftorfng 1nstr.-ents.radios. clfpboards. etc.) on plastfc dropcloths. SegregaUon at the drop reduces thf>probabflfty of cross contalllfnation. Durfng hot~ather operations. a cool down st.t;on .ay beset up llfthln th15 area.

2. Scrub outer boots. outer gloves and spla,;~

suft llfth deeon solutlon or detergent water.Rinse off using copfous uoounts of water.

3. Remove outer boots and gloves. Deposft fncontafner llfth plasUc 11ner.

4. If worker leaves exclushe zone to changecanister (or ..sk). th15 15 thf> last step fn thedeeonta.tnaUon procedure. IIorker's can15ter fsexchanged. new outer gloves and boot coversdonned. joints taped. and worker returns to duty.

5. Soots. chemical-resistant splash suit. fnnergloves reMOved and deposited in separatecontafners 11ned llfth plasUc.

6. Facepfece 15 removed. Avofd touchfng face llfthfingers. Facepfece deposited on plastic sheet.

7. Hands and face are thoroughly washed. Shower assoon as possible.

Appendix E. NIOSH. OSHA. and EPA Regional Offices and USCG District Offices

NIOSH ReglOft8f OffIces

HHS Region IGoYemment CenterCJFK Federal Building)Boston, MA 02203Telephone: (617) 223-3848

HHS Region II26 Federal Plaza, ROom 3337New 'Ibrk. NY 10278Telephone: (212) 264-5747

HHS Region III521-35 Market StreetP.O. Box 13716Philadelphia. PA 19101Telephone: 12151 596-6716

HHS Region IV101 Marietta Tower, Suite 1007Atlanta, GA 30323Telephone: 14041 221-2396

HHS Region V300 South Wacker Drive. 33rd RoorChicago. IL 60606Telephone: 13121 886-3881

HHS Region VI1200 Main Tower BuildingRoom 1835Dallas. TX 75202Telephone: (214) 767-3916

HHS Region VII601 East 12th StreetKansas City, MO 64106Telephone: 1816) 374-3491

HHS Region VIII1185 Federal Building1961 Stout StJeetDenver. CO 80294Telephone: 1303) 644-6163 x17

HHS Region IX50 Uniled Nations PlazaSan Francisco. CA 94102Telephone: 14151 556-3782

HHS Region X2901 Third Avenue, M.S. 402Saattle, WA 98121Telephone: (2061 442-0530

OSHA Regional OffIces

OSHA Region I16-18 North Street1 Dock Squara Building. 41h RoarBoston, MA 02109Telephone: (617) 223-6710

OSHA Region IIOne Astor Plaza. Room 34451515 BroadwayNew 'lbrl<. NY 10036Telephone: 1212) 944-3432

OSHA Region IIIGateway Building. Suite 21003535 Market StreetPhiladelphia. PA 19104Telephone: 12151 596-1201

OSHA Region IV1375 PeachtJee Street. N.E.Suile 587Atlanta. GA 30367Telephone: 14041 881-3573

OSHA Region V230 South Dearborn Street3200 Roor, Room 3244Chicago. IL 60604Telephone: 13121 353-2220

OSHA Region VI525 Griffin Square, Room 602Dallas. TX 75202Telephone: (2141 767-4731

OSHA Region VII911 Walnut Street. Room 406Kansas City. MO 64106Telephone: (8161 374-5861

OSHA Region VIIIFederal Building. Room 15541961 Stout StreetDenver. CO 80294Telephone: (303) 837-3061

OSHA Region IX450 Golden Gate AvenueSox 36017San Francisco. CA 94102Telephone: (415) 556-7260

OSHA Region XFederal Office Building. Room 6003909 First AvenueSeattle. WA 98174Telephone: (206) 442-5930

EPA RegIonal OffIc..

EPA Region IJFK Federal BuildingBoston. MA 02203Telephone: (6171 223-7210

EPA Region II26 Federal PlazaRoom 900New 'lbrk. NY 10218Telephone: (2121 264-2525

EPA Region III641 Chestnut StreetPhiladelphia. PA 19107Telephone: (215) 597-9800

EPA Region IV345 Cortland StJeet. N.E.Atlanta. GA 30365Telephone: (4041881-4727

EPA Region V230 S. Dearbome StreetChicago. IL 60604Telephone: (312) 353-2000

EPA Region VIFirst International Building1201 Elm StreetDallas. TX 75270Telephone: 12141 767-2600

EPA Region VII726 Minnesota AvenueKansas City, KS 66101Telephone: 1913) 236-2800

EPA Region VIIIOne Denver Place999 181h StJeet. Suile 1300Denver. CO 80202-2413Telephone: (303) 293-1603

EPA Region IX215 Fremonl StJeetSan Francisco. CA 94105Telephone: (4151 974-8153

EPA Region X1200 61h AvenueSeattle. WA 98101Telephone: (2061 442-5810

E-2 Appendix E

USCG District Offices

Commander (mep)First Coast Guard District150 Causeway StreetBoston, MA 02114Telephone: 16171 223-6915

Commander (meps)Second Coast Guard District1430 Olive StreetSt. lDuis. MO 63103Telephone: 1314) 425-4655

Commander (mar)Third Coast Guard DistrictGovernors IslandNew 'lbrk, NY 10004Telephone: 12121668-7152

Commander (mep)Rtth Coast Guard DistrictFederal Building431 Crawfort StreetPortsmouth. VA 23705Telephone: (8041 398-6383

Commander (map)Seventh Coast Guard DistrictFederal Building51 S.W. 1st AvenueMiami, FL 33130Telephone: 1305) 350-5276

Commander (map)Eighth Coast Guard DistrictHale Boggs Federal Building500 Camp StreetNew Orleans, LA 70130Telephone: 1504) 589-6296

Commander (map)Ninth Coast Guard District1240 East 9th StreetCleveland. OH 44199Telephone: 1216) 522-3918

Commander (map)Eleventh Coast Guard DistrictUnion Bank Building400 OceangateLong Beach. CA 90822Telephone: 1213) 590-2301

Commander lmepps)lWelfth Coast Guard DistrictBuilding 51Government IslandAlameda. CA 94501Telephone: (415) 437-3465

Commander lmeplThirteenth Coast Guard DistrictFederal Building915 Second AvenueSeattlll. WA 98174Telephone: 1206) 442-5850

Commander (map)Fourteenth Coast Guard DistrictPrince Kalanianaole Federal Building300 Ala Moans Boulevard. 9th RoarHonolulu. HI 96850Telephone: (808) 546-7510

Commander (map)Seventeenth Coast Guard Districtp.o. Box 3-5000Juneau, AK 99802Telephone: 1907) 586-7195

Atlantic Area

--

Pacific Area

u.s. Coast Guard Districts

11

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Appendix E E-3

NIOSH. OSHA. AND EPA REGIONS

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