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HAZMAT EMERGENCIES AT CALTRANS MAINTENANCE FACILITIES When a release or spill occurs at a Caltrans maintenance facility, the first operational thought shall be S A F E T Y. You must maintain a "Mental Safe Approach Tactic" so that you can reduce the chances of EXPOSURE to the hazardous material(s). ALERTING AND RESPONSE Your first action is to notify personnel in the immediate vicinity of the spill hazard. You should then attempt to isolate the spill site and deny entry. Your next action is to NOTIFY THE TMC DISPATCH @ 209-948-7556 First Awareness Level (FRA) trained employees are those likely to witness or discover a hazardous substance release. They have been trained to initiate an emergency response sequence by notifying the proper authorities of the release. They take no further action beyond notifying the authorities and isolating the area. First Responder Operations (FRO) trained employees are part of the initial response to the sites of potential and actual releases of hazardous substances. They are trained to respond in a defensive fashion without actually trying to stop the release. They attempt to identify the type of material from a safe distance, if it is possible to do so. They attempt to protect nearby people, the environment, and property from the effects of the release. They may attempt to contain the release from a safe distance, if it can be done without risk, to keep it from spreading and to prevent exposures. The FRO also ensures that notifications are made. Hazardous Materials Technicians and Specialists assume a more aggressive role than a first responder at the operational level and may attempt to plug, patch, or otherwise stop the release of hazardous substances. Employees trained to the Technician and Specialist level shall not take any action that requires use of self-contained breathing apparatus (SOBA). They shall not attempt to enter an area with an unknown substance that requires use of such equipment, or perfonn any other function that requires use of SCBAs. EMERGENCY MEDICAL TREATMENT If a person is injured, emergency medical assistance may be necessary (dial 911). Remember: before an injured person is transported for treatment, she/he must be decontaminated. If the injured person(s) is within the spill site, do not attempt to go to their rescue. If you do you may become exposed to the hazardous material and become a victim. Wait for qualified help to deal with possible multiple situations that may be present such as fire, rescue, emergency medical technicians, and decontamination. �t