Frequently asked questions: chemical emergency response

An essential resource for organisations working with or handling chemicals, chemical emergency response is a regulatory requirement for many parts of the world. We get back to basics and answer some of the most frequently asked questions.

1.    What is a chemical emergency?

A chemical emergency refers to an unexpected release of hazardous chemicals that poses a risk to human health, the environment, or property. The scale of a chemical incident can range from major site or transportation incidents through to small scale domestic accidents.

2.    Which regulations require chemical emergency response?

Several regulations around the world require chemical emergency response to protect workers, communities, and the environment from the risks associated with hazardous chemicals. The key regulations include:

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Regulations, including Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) Standard (29 CFR 1910.120), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Regulations and Hazard Communication Standard, reference to 29 CFR 1910.120.
• European Union (EU), including the REACH Regulation (EC, No. 1907/2006) and CLP Regulation (EC, No. 1272/2008)
• Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS)
• Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA), including Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) Regulations including Emergency Response Action Plans (ERAPs).
• Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulations, including risk assessment regulations such as Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH)
• Regulations on the Control over Safety of Hazardous Chemicals and Work Safety Law in China
• Industrial Safety and Health Act (ISHA), Japan
• Global Transport Regulations, such as International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code, International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR), International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Rail (RID) Regulation, and the International Air Transportation Association Dangerous Goods Regulations.
• Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) 

3.    What kinds of risks can originate from chemical incidents?

All hazardous properties defined in the United Nations Globally Harmonized System for the classification of hazards can lead to a risk for humans and the environment. The risks presented from corrosive or flammable materials is clear. But even far less hazardous products can have significant impact if released into the environment. Substances can present toxicity issues for humans and environments (e.g. carcinogenic or poisonous to marine life), be flammable, corrosive or reactive in certain scenarios.

4.    What are the health effects from a chemical exposure?

Exposure to certain chemicals can lead to a wide range of immediate effects, including respiratory issues, skin irritation, burns, or more severe conditions including fatalities, depending on the chemical involved and the extent of the exposure. Effective response to incidents will minimize the potential for injuries.

5.    What are the signs of a chemical release?

There may be clear signs of the incident which has resulted in a chemical release. Signs of chemicals may include unusual odours, visible vapour clouds, puddles of liquids, or sudden illness in people nearby. Some chemicals cannot be seen with the naked eye, however, including hydrogen, which has colour added to its formulation depending on its use.

6.    What systems are in place to respond to chemical incidents?

Emergency services, first responders, public health agencies including environmental agencies, and chemical professionals collaborate to manage chemical incidents effectively.

7.    How does chemical emergency planning play a crucial role in risk management?

Effective emergency response procedures are essential for minimising impacts during chemical incidents. Trained personnel can take steps to safely and efficiently contain and control spills, leaks, and fires, reducing potential harm to people, the environment, and property. 

8.    Can chemical emergency response reduce financial losses?

Efficient or rapid resolution which minimises escalation can protect resources and the organisations bottom line.

9.    Does chemical emergency response support business resilience?

With incident impacts minimised with a swift and effective response and by having emergency or incident management plans in place, business operations can recover to business as usual at a much faster rate. 

10.    Should companies test their emergency plans?

Yes, regular testing of emergency procedures can ensure that response measures will provide an appropriate and effective response to an incident, minimising harm and costs.

11.    Should organisations provide emergency response training?

Individuals potentially responsible for responding to chemical emergencies require proper training to support with recognising potential hazards and responding swiftly during emergencies, minimising the impact of an incident.

12.    Can chemical emergency response training reduce property damage?

Trained responders can take immediate action to contain spills or leaks, preventing them from spreading and causing property damage, and minimising impacts.

13.    Does emergency response support our business’ sustainability objectives?

Yes, by helping to protect and minimise impacts to people, assets, environments and reputations.

14.    What information is provided by a chemical emergency response service?

Typically, the safety information provided by chemical emergency response services is taken from the safety data sheet associated with the product or substance and contains hazard information, personal protective equipment, first aid measures and environmental precautions. 

15.    Can chemical emergency response helplines provide advice?

Yes, but only in cases where the team have a high level of chemical knowledge and have received appropriate training. Using services that can provide proportionate advice can lead to incidents being resolved much quicker, minimising risk and costs.

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