Hazardous Materials Flashcards
UN number
A four-digit number specific to the actual chemical.
Hot (Contamination) zone:
Contamination is actually present.
Personnel must wear appropriate protective gear.
Number of rescuers limited to those absolutely necessary.
Bystanders are never allowed.
Warm (Control) zone:
The area surrounding the contamination zone.
Vital to preventing spread of contamination.
Personnel must wear appropriate protective gear.
Lifesaving emergency care is performed.
Cold (Safe) zone:
Normal triage, stabilization, and treatment are performed.
Rescuers must shed contaminated gear before entering the cold zone.
Primary contamination
Occurs when someone or something is directly exposed to a hazardous substance.
Secondary contamination
Takes place when a contaminated person or object comes in contact with an uncontaminated person or object.
Alpha radiation
Is when neutrons and protons released by the nucleus of a radioactive substance.
Beta radiation
Is when electrons released with great energy by a radioactive substance.
What has more energy, beta or alpha radiation?
Beta particles have more energy than alpha particles and will travel 6 to 10 feet in the air. Beta particles will penetrate a few millimeters of skin.
How far will alpha particles travel?
They will only travel a few inches and are stopped by paper, clothing, or intact skin. Alpha particles are hazardous if inhaled or ingested.
Gamma radiation
Are high-energy photons, such as X-rays.
What will gamma rays penetrate?
They penetrate most substances and damage any cells within the body. Gamma rays are electromagnetic, instead of particles. No decontamination is required.
Hazmat protection equipment level A
Highest level of respiratory and splash protection.
Hazmat protection equipment level B
Full respiratory protection when there is a lower probability of dermal hazards.
Nonencapsulating, but chemically resistant.
Seams for zippers, glove, boots and mask interface are usually sealed with duct tape.
Hazmat protection equipment level C
Nonpermeable suit, boots, and gear for protecting eyes and hands.
Air-purifying respirator use instead of SCBA.
