Staying Safe While Managing Hazardous Materials

Chemicals and other materials that can do harm to humans are everywhere. Even some of the products available in supermarkets can seriously hurt living things. A hazardous material is most succinctly described as a substance that can cause serious injury or death to any creature. Since these materials are found in nearly every environment, it is sometimes necessary to handle them to protect others. The ways to manage these substances are just as numerous as they are. However, the management of these products is highly regulated by the government.

Many industries find that hazardous materials are a byproduct of the manufacturing process. These companies are required to contain and dispose of these materials responsibly. They employ hazardous material management certified specialist that are trained in safety procedures. These specialists and other professionals have the responsibility of handling these products using techniques designed to minimize risk to human beings and the environment.

What are Hazardous Materials?

The term "hazardous materials" is often shortened to the term HAZMAT. HAZMAT is any material that can prove harmful to humans or other living creatures. The government highly regulates the sale, production, transportation, and use of these materials because of their risk to public safety.

There are 9 official classes of HAZMAT according to the United States Department of Transportation:

• Explosives
  
• Gases
  
• Flammable liquids
  
• Flammable Solids
  
• Oxidizing Agents and Organic Peroxides
  
• Toxic and Infectious Substances
  
• Radioactive Substances
  
• Corrosive Substances
  
• Miscellaneous

Obtaining a CHMM

Those who will be working with dangerous materials and manage them in an official capacity for a business must obtain status as a CHMM or Certified Hazardous Materials Manager. In order to receive this title, one must pass an exam given by the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management.

The test covers all aspects of work with dangerous substances. Questions include but are not limited to information on federal guidelines, advanced understanding of chemistry, biology, and radiology, and basic competency measurement.

General Rules

There are some official hazardous materials that are fairly common. For instance, gasoline is a Class 3 hazardous material. Even dry ice is on the list of dangerous substances. Those who are not professional CHMMs can still practice safety around these materials. In order to reduce the risk of spreading the HAZMAT, follow these safety rules.

• Properly store and label all hazardous materials. Though HAZMAT can be dangerous, they are often needed by homes and business. The owner of the product should make sure that it is stored according to government regulations. Others should be notified via a warning label that it is dangerous.
  
• Use and wear the proper safety equipment. Handling some types of HAZMAT may require a full suit, but other may only require gloves and goggles. Anyone handling a dangerous material should make sure to protect his or her body. Other safety equipment includes tongs or fire retardant foam. Different kinds of HAZMAT have their own safety requirements.
  
• Follow all transportation regulations. The Department of Transportation heavily regulates the transporting of dangerous substances. There are even rules for how to carry common products like gasoline in a personal vehicle. Adhering to these rules can prevent accidental contamination.
  
• Plan emergency procedures and keep records. If a company or private citizen has hazardous material in their possession, they should plan for any eventuality involving it. Records can become important when trying to make storage arrangements or to complying with federal guidelines.

HAZMAT Emergencies

Unfortunately, sometimes these dangerous materials are mismanaged and people’s lives are put at risk. Many HAZMAT spills, leaks, and other contamination incidents happen each year. Some fear that terror groups may even release these materials on purpose in order to harm others.

Since the attack on the United States since September 11, 2001, local fire departments and other government agencies have been increasing their capacity to deal with this type of emergency. More teams have been HAZMAT teams have been trained and drilled on how to respond to a serious situation.

Those who are involved with a HAZMAT incident should immediately try to protect themselves and exit the area. Emergency response teams can advise victims on decontamination procedures and find them help.

Smart HAZMAT Management

The pervasiveness of hazardous materials and the amount of damage they can cause are reason enough to follow management procedures. No matter how small the amount, HAZMAT should be treated with proper care. Keeping others safe is no small task and should be undertaken with a sense of urgency.

Brian Jenkins is a freelance writer who writes about topics concerning safety, planning and preparedness as well as demonstrations for emergency response such as a Safety Training Video