HAZ 008: Environmental Control Flashcards
What does EA stand for?
Environment Agency
What are the EA responsible for?
Four answers
Main drainage and pollution control relating to sewers
Pollution control over the River Thames, and all over open water sources in Greater London
Navigation control over the non-tidal River Thames upstream from Teddington lock
Flood control within Greater London, including operation of flood barriers
How can air pollution be caused?
Seven answers
Gaseous and airbourne products from fires
Products from fires involving HAZMATs
Materials released at special services
Evaporation from liquid spillages
Deliberate release of gas or vapour
Release or liberation of particulates or fibres
Exhaust emissions from vehicles and equipment
How can air pollution cause harm?
Five answers
Direct toxicity to organisms both immediate or long term
Indirect toxicity - gases and vapours that mix or react in the atmosphere
Physical or chemical effects
Toxicity effects of airbourne particulates and fibres
Deteriorating air quality leading to poor ‘quality of life’
What is the definition of water pollution?
The contamination of controlled waters such as lakes, rivers, coastal waters, and ground water
What are the three types of drainage system in London?
Foul sewers
Take foul effluent from premises to sewage treatment works
Combined sewers
Same as foul sewers in normal conditions, however during storm conditions they overflow directly into watercourses
Most common in London
Surface water drains
Transfer rain water from roads, paved areas and roof tops directly into watercourses
Name some examples of polluting situations?
Ten answers
Petrol spillages Oil and diesel spillages Firefighting foam Incidents adjacent to watercourses Incidents involving fly-tipped materials Detergents Disinfectants Alcohol Fertilisers Paints and dyes
Name some methods of pollution control?
Seven answers
Allowing a controlled burn
Blocking or bending (creating a barrier)
Diverting fire or chemical run-off to contained areas
Closing sluice valve or penstocks
Containing fire run-off within premises
Pumping pollutants into foul sewers with permission of Thames Water
Pumping organic material onto open water
What is a controlled burn?
Application of firefighting media to minimise damage to public health and the environment
Prevents water pollution by contaminated firewater, and reduces air pollution
What three things should be considered when implementing a controlled burn?
The removal of unaffected material to reduce available fuel
Th positioning of jets to protect surrounding risks
Obtaining regular weather forecasts in order to predict the impact of smoke and flames
What are Environmental Grab Packs?
Pack that are specifically designed as a first aid measure for environmental protection
What items does an Environmental Grab Pack contain?
Nine answers
1 aide-memoire 1 tub of sealing putty 1 drain mat 20 blue oil absorbent pads 2 blue oil absorbent mini-booms 1 10m poly-boom 2 disposable bags and ties 1 roll of EA waste material tape 2 pairs of latex disposable gloves
What are the two weekly tests that should be carried out on the Environmental Grab Pack?
Visually inspect the bag and contents for damage
Examine sealing putty and drain mat for expiry date
What is the purpose of sealing putty?
Used to stop leaks from drums, tanks, and pipes
What is the purpose of the drain mat?
Used to seal surface drains and grids to prevent pollutants entering the drainage system
