Hazardous Materials Awareness Flashcards

In hazmat scene control, in which zone is decontamination normally performed?

Answer: Warm zone

The warm zone (contamination reduction zone) is where decontamination occurs between hot and cold zones.

Which GHS pictogram (flame over a circle) identifies a chemical that should be stored away from drip torch fuel?

Answer: Oxidizer

The flame-over-circle pictogram denotes oxidizers, which intensify fires involving fuels.

What is the DOT hazard class for compressed gases such as propane used in burn operations?

Answer: Class 2

Compressed, liquefied, and dissolved gases including propane are DOT Class 2.

The DOT 'Materials of Trade' exception is relevant to prescribed fire operations because it:

Answer: Allows limited quantities of fuel for work use to be transported with reduced requirements

Materials of Trade (49 CFR 173.6) permits small quantities in proper containers to be carried without full hazmat shipping requirements.

Why is gasoline considered far more hazardous than diesel during field fuel handling?

Answer: Gasoline has a flash point well below ambient temperatures

Gasoline's flash point is around -45°F, so it produces ignitable vapors in virtually all field conditions.

The ERG green-bordered pages provide what information?

Answer: Initial isolation and protective action distances for toxic-inhalation materials

Green pages list initial isolation and protective action distances, mainly for toxic inhalation hazard and water-reactive materials.

While mopping up, a crew member notices empty pesticide containers that partially burned. What is the best precaution?

Answer: Avoid the smoke and residue, isolate the site, and report it for proper disposal

Burning pesticide containers can release toxic combustion products and residues requiring proper handling and disposal.