Hazmat Incidents

Scope

This Operational Guideline provides guidance for incidents involving hazardous materials.

Fundamental Protocols underpin the actions of all NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) members and must be adhered to at all times. They outline the Principles of being an RFS member and provide guidance on conduct to support the safety and wellbeing of members.

Guiding Principles

Approach

• If possible, approach from upwind and uphill. Remain well clear. Call Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) immediately if hazardous materials are suspected.
  • A Hazmat response may only be required for part of an incident and should be managed accordingly.
• Close truck windows and vents.
• Look for hazard placards on impacted vehicles or structures.

Rescue

• Safely evacuate and cordon off danger area. Account for people. Conduct rescue only if safely possible. Note: Victims may need decontamination.

Suppression

• Assume it is a Hazmat incident until positively confirmed otherwise. Only specialised Hazmat units (e.g., FRNSW) are to conduct offensive operations.
• Only if safe, carry out defensive actions: prevent further spillage, protect exposures, prevent runoff, remove other hazards, and control other fires.
• Small uncomplicated fires/spills involving common flammable liquid or gas fuels may be dealt with by RFS units as these are not considered a Hazmat incident.

Overhaul

• Keep a record of any suspected exposure to hazardous materials.

Decontamination

• Follow wash down and decontamination procedures as recommended by FRNSW.

Other

• Where applicable, support FRNSW operations in accordance with Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and associated procedures.

Special Considerations

Hazards and Precautions

• Hazmat incidents may include explosive, flammable, reactive, oxidising, poisonous, radioactive, corrosive, biological or otherwise hazardous substances.
• Precautions may include:
  • Treat all calls as potential Hazmat incidents: Always look for signs of hazardous materials.
  • Maintain a safe distance, minimise time exposure, and maximise shielding. Utilise appropriate personal protective clothing and equipment (PPC/PPE) with suspected Hazmat incidents.
  • If contamination suspected, immediately seek medical attention, including decontamination.
  • Use a defensive strategy. Offensive strategy to be used only by FRNSW.

Related Information

• MOU between RFS and FRNSW
• RFS OPG - Incidents - Asbestos Containing Materials