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SJCOE Emergency Response <br />for Hazardous Materials Release <br />and Spills in the School <br />A hazardous material is any substance chemical, biological, radiological, or explosive in a quantity <br />or form, which may be harmful to humans, domestic animals, wildlife, economic crops or property <br />when released or spilled into the environment. Hazardous materials accidents may occur as the <br />result of human error or natural disaster. <br />A number of approved materials, products and chemicals may be found in and around schools. <br />Use may occur in classrooms and labs, school custodial work and supply areas, kitchen work and <br />supply areas, outdoor areas, and office areas. <br />Release or spills involving hazardous materials are likely to happen without warning and pose a <br />risk to people who may come in contact with the release or spill. Accidental or natural disaster <br />release or spills are usually confined to a localized area and containment action should be taken <br />as safely and promptly as possible. <br />An emergency exists when the hazardous materials or a chemical spill: <br />• involves the release of a type or quantity of a chemical that poses <br />an immediate risk to health or <br />• involves a fire hazard / explosion risk or <br />• involves a highly dangerous chemical or <br />• involves unknown or highly reactive chemical(s) or <br />• involves a large quantity of chemical(s), (generally over I liter of <br />liquid or I kg of solid material) <br />In the event of a Hazardous Materials Release or Spill in the School <br />Responsibilities <br />Administration: <br />' Assess the situation <br />' If positive identification of the material cannot be made, assume the material to be <br />dangerous. <br />• Evacuate the contaminated area and seal it off. The site of a hazardous materials incident <br />is to be isolated to the extent necessary as soon and safely as possible. <br />11 Page <br />Updated: 11/29/18 <br />