Explain the EMT operations during a call involving hazardous materials.

Explanation should include the risks, standard operating procedures, and responsibilities of operating in a scene of a hazardous materials incident.

Note: the extent of information presented in this area will vary at the regional and local level.

Process/Skill Questions:

• What is a cold zone?
• How can an EMT manage the risks of entering a cold zone?
• How can an EMT manage the responsibilities of operating in a cold zone?
• How can an EMT be sure of following all standard procedures for operating in a cold zone?
• What manual is used to initially stabilize a HAZMAT incident?
• What is the catch-all guide number for an unknown hazard?

Teacher Resources:

• Virginia Department of Emergency Management Hazardous Materials Links to an external site.
• U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) Links to an external site.
• I.S. 5.a- introduction to Hazard Materials Links to an external site., Emergency Management Institute, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)