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UNIVAR USA INC. v un !VAR CONTINGENCY PLAN 06/14/11 Replaces 03/10/10 SECTION SUBJECT PAGE 11 FIVE PRE-EMERGENCY PLANNING OF 15 TOXIC GAS RELEASES The release of a toxic gas is a very serious emergency situation. Most gases are very dangerous because they are not as easily detected as a fire or a spill. The first indication of a release is often through detection of its odor. Toxic gases are easily spread by air currents once they are released, and mere breathing in the area of a release increases the risk of exposure. Many gases are extremely toxic or irritating. By the time a release of a toxic gas is detected, it often means several people may have already inadvertently been exposed to it. Controlling and containing the release of a toxic gas requires a quick, yet cautious, response. Proper personal protective equipment is an absolute must because stopping the release often means getting right into the thickest part of the toxic gas cloud. The two most important things to consider during an emergency involving the release of a toxic gas are: Minimize to the greatest possible extent, the number of people that will be exposed to the cloud of released toxic gas. Get the necessary personnel properly outfitted to stop the release. NOTE: Only personnel that have the proper training and qualifications can respond to the release of a toxic gas. The Material Safety Data Sheet on the toxic gas involved in the emergency should be consulted for information on safety and proper procedures for control. Listed below are the general classifications for the toxic gases that may be present at the Branch. As described, the gases are usually toxic or irritating to varying degrees, but some are both toxic and flammable. 1. Toxic Gases - Non-Flammable Non-flammable gases can cause injury or asphyxiation of persons entering the cloud. Tanks containing non-flammable gases can rupture violently when exposed to intense fire conditions because the gas will expand rapidly when heated. Always consult the MSDS on the gas to determine proper safety and control procedures. It is imperative when dealing with a release of toxic gas that full protective equipment be worn by spill control team members. Everyone else must be evacuated from the immediate area (up-wind of the release). Spectators should be kept as far away from the area as possible. Be sure to clearly communicate the nature of the hazard