Emergency Procedures: Hazardous Materials Release
EVACUATE
- Leave the area immediately and move approximately 1/2 mile away (8 to 10 blocks)
- Keep others away from the affected area
- STAY UPSTREAM, UPHILL, AND UPWIND OF THE ACCIDENT
- Do not walk into or touch any spilled liquids, airborne mists, or condensed solid chemical deposits
- Turn off all ignition and heat sources
- Try not to inhale gases, fumes, or smoke
- Cover mouth with a cloth while leaving the area
Call USC Police at 911 and tell the dispatcher:
- Location of the leak or spill
- Type of substance
- Amount spilled/leaking
- Any injuries
Those contaminated by the spill should avoid contact with others and remain in a safe location nearby to receive medical assistance
WET CHEMICALS:
- Flush with water and soap, if possible, being sure not to rub the chemical into your skin
DRY CHEMICALS:
- Using gloves, brush from skin
- Remove all contaminated clothing
- Once the chemical is removed, flush skin with cool water
- Those with information on the chemical should leave immediate area but remain in a safe, nearby location to direct emergency personnel to the affected area
- Assist with providing information about the incident, chemical involved, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), and chemical's common use
- Follow evacuation instructions from emergency personnel
- Keep streets, fire lanes, hydrants, and walkways clear for emergency vehicles
- Return to the spill/leak site only when permitted by emergency officials
- If you are unable to evacuate, or if you are instructed to stay indoors, SHELTER IN PLACE
SHELTER IN PLACE (INSTRUCTED TO STAY INDOORS)
- Close and lock all exterior doors and windows
- Close vents and as many interior doors as possible
- Turn off air conditioners and ventilation systems
- In large buildings, set ventilation systems to 100 percent recirculation so that no outside air is drawn into the building
- If this is not possible, ventilation systems should be turned off
- Go to a pre-selected shelter room above ground; select a room that has the fewest openings to the outside
- Seal gaps under doorways and windows with wet towels, plastic sheeting and duct tape
- Use material to fill cracks and holes in the room, such as those around windows and air conditioning units
- If gas or vapors could have entered the building, take shallow breaths through a cloth or a towel
- Avoid eating or drinking any food or water that may be contaminated
- Call USC Police at 911 to report your location
IF IN A VEHICLE
- Stop and seek shelter in a safe building
- If you must remain in your car, close windows and air vents, and shut off the air conditioner
- Breathe through a cloth covering your mouth