Hazardous Materials Shipping and Transportation Awareness Training

Target Audience

  • Hazardous Materials Transportation Coordinators for UWM departments and divisions
  • Employees who prepare hazardous materials for transport

Introduction

The Department of Transportation (DOT) regulates the transportation of hazardous materials. The Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) are located in 49 CFR 171-179. The HMR was originally developed to address the acute hazards associated with the transportation of explosives and flammables. These regulations have evolved to include

  • Classification
  • Hazard communication
  • Transportation
  • Packaging
  • Emergency response

When Do the HMR Apply?

  • Transportation of hazardous materials "in commerce". Examples - shipment of material via UPS or FedEX; transportation of certain hazardous materials over public highways, waterways, etc.
  • Begins with the preparation of the material for transport and includes offering, loading, movement and unloading

How Do They Apply to UWM Activities?

Hazardous materials are substances or materials capable of posing an unreasonable risk to health, safety and property. Materials that are shipped to a lab for testing or analysis, sent to a colleague for collaborative research, shipped to another research facility, returned to the manufacturer or sent to a field research sight must follow all applicable shipping requirements. To comply, regulated materials are classified according to their hazards, properly packaged, labeled, documented and handled by trained employees.

FedEx DC-10

Transportation Risks are Real

In September 1996 a FedEx DC-10 was completely destroyed by fire when a DNA Synthesizer containing a flammable liquid ignited in the cargo hold of the plan. The crew was able to land the plan and escape with only minor injuries.

The NTSB concluded that “the presence of the flammable chemical in the DNA synthesizer was wholly unintended and unknown to the preparer of the package and the shipper”.

FedEx sought and received damages from the shipper for the article.

Definitions

Hazardous Material --

A substance or material, including a hazardous substance, which as been determined by the Secretary of Transportation to be capable of posing an unreasonable risk to health, safety, and property when transported in commerce.

Hazmat Employer --

An employer who uses one or more of its employees to:

  • Transport hazardous materials in commerce

  • Cause hazardous materials to be transported or shipped in commerce
Hazmat Employee --
Accepting Package

An individual employed by a HazMat employer in a manner that directly affects hazardous materials transportation safety. Includes employees who would perform any of the following activities:

  • Loads, unloads, receives or handles hazardous materials
  • Prepares hazardous materials for transportation (including the completion of shipping papers).
  • Responsible for safety of transporting hazardous materials
  • Operates a vehicle used to transport hazardous materials.
Cycle Of Transportation --

Generally refers to the entire process regulated by the HMR, including:

  • Preparing a package for transportation
  • Loading and/or placarding a transport vehicle
  • Moving the vehicle
  • Unloading the vehicle
Shipper --

Any person who either prepares or offers a package containing hazardous materials for transportation on a public right-of-way. Preparing a hazardous material for transportation includes classifying, naming, packaging, marking, labeling, preparing shipping papers and affixing placards depending upon the packaging types.

Exceptions

Small quantity exemptions (173.4) may apply to materials that are shipped via ground only (UPS Ground, FedEX Ground).

  • 30 ml for liquids
  • 30 g for solids

Consult the Hazardous Materials Transportation website for more information on shipping exempted quantities of material.

Penalties --

Failure to meet regulatory requirements when shipping hazardous materials may result in citations, fines and/or imprisonment. Fines to the University can range from $250 to $500,000 per violation. In addition, individual researchers and shippers may be subject to criminal penalties and imprisonment.

Any person who knowingly and willfully violates a provision of the Hazardous Material transportation law may be personally fined and/or imprisoned.

UNIVERSITIES ARE NOT EXEMPT!

A university in the northwest US had a series of incidents occur that resulted in large penalties

  • Several years ago the university’s football team took spray paint cans onto a plane in their carry-on luggage. The institution was held accountable and was warned.
  • Some years later a researcher from the same institution packaged some research materials for shipment to Nairobi. Some marking on the packages caught the attention of an inspector who pulled the shipment and opened the packages. Unknowingly (NO EXCUSE) the researcher had packed materials that were hazardous according to international regulations and the package was not properly labeled or marked. Since the institution had been previously warned (football team) this became a second instance violation and the researcher’s department was fined $40,000. They were not able to negotiate a lower fine.
  • At a later date a researcher from the same university packaged a sample in a dry shipper containing liquid nitrogen. The researcher failed to drain off the free liquid that had not been absorbed when the liquid nitrogen was added. While on an airport ramp a small amount of liquid nitrogen splashed out of the container. A cargo handler saw the material fizzing, boiling and vaporizing on the ramp ---- a full-blown hazardous materials incident ensued. The university was fined an additional $30,000 by the USDOT.
  • This institution now has a 4-hour mandatory transportation class and charges back a $25 fee for every hazardous materials shipment that leaves campus.

COULD IT HAPPEN AT UWM?

At another institution a research technician gave shipping papers to an UNTRAINED department secretary to type up and print out. The package contained Dry Ice and Infectious material that was assigned to Packing Group III. The secretary keyed it as Packing Group 111. This caught the eye of a dangerous goods inspector and the institution was soon cited for EIGHT violations including improper marking, improper documentation and having an untrained person prepare the shipping papers. The institution was able to negotiate the fines down to $7500.

Training Requirements

Why Train?

The intent of the training is to reduce the number and severity of hazardous material incidents in transportation by educating hazmat employees.

Who Must Provide The Training?

Hazmat employers must provide the training to their employees.

Who Must Be Trained?

All hazmat employees must receive this training.

Training Frequency

Training must be completed within 90 days of employment or 90 days of a new job assignment. Refresher training must be completed every three years of when there is a major change in the regulations.

Training Topics

In order to meet the training requirements outlined in 49 CFR 172.704, hazmat employee training shall include the following:

  • General Awareness/Familiarization Training

    Training intended to raise the employee's awareness of the Hazardous Materials regulations and hazard communication requirements. Instruction should enable employees to better recognize and identify hazardous materials in the workplace.

    Example: Employees will learn how to read warning labels

  • Function Specific Training

    Training intended to teach employees specific information and skills pertaining to hazardous materials so that they may perform their job functions safety and more effectively.

    Example: Employees will learn to use the Hazardous Materials Table to properly classify the material they need to ship.

  • Safety Training

    Training intended to provide employees with information concerning the hazards posed by the materials they work with. This includes instruction in personal protective measures, emergency response procedures and accident prevention.

    Example: Employees will learn whom to notify in case of an emergency and how to properly handle packages containing hazardous materials.

  • Security Awareness Training

    Training that provides an awareness of security risks associated with hazardous materials transportation and methods designed to enhance transportation security. Training must also include a component covering how to recognize and respond to possible security threats.

Documentation and Recordkeeping

After training is completed the employer must certify each hazmat employee has received the training and was tested as it pertains to the employees area of responsibility. Training records must be maintained for the past three years for each employee.

Hazard Identification and Classification

Steps:

  1. Is material a hazardous material?
  2. What is the hazard(s)?
  3. Are there any exceptions?

Hazardous Materials Table

To determine if the material you are shipping is classified as a hazardous material you need to consult the Hazardous Materials Table (49 CFR 172.101). This table only applies to transportation.

The Hazardous Materials Table (49 CFR 172.101) designates the materials listed therein as hazardous materials for the purpose of transportation of those materials.

For each listed material, the Table identifies the hazard class or specifies that the material is forbidden in transportation, and gives the proper shipping name or directs the user to the preferred proper shipping name. In addition, the Table specifies or references requirements pertaining to labeling, packaging, quantity limits aboard aircraft and stowage of hazardous materials aboard vessels.

The Table is comprised of 10 columns that provide information on:

Mode of transportation restrictions/conditions Column 1
Proper shipping name Column 2
Hazard class Column 3
UN or NA identification number Column 4
Packing group Column 5
Required labels Column 6
Special provisions Column 7
Packaging requirements Column 8
Air transportation Column 9
Vessel transportation Column 10

Is Your Material Hazardous?

To identify whether your material is classified as a dangerous good for the purpose of shipping you need to start with Column 2 of the hazardous materials table. If the material you are to ship appears in column 2 it will be a dangerous good subject to the transportation regulations and conditions. After finding your material in Column 2 work your way through the rest of table to determine required marking, labeling and packaging.

Hazardous Materials Table - Column 2 - Naming

Column 2: Hazardous Materials Descriptions & Proper Shipping Names

Lists hazardous materials descriptions and proper shipping names

  • Proper shipping names are in Roman type ONLY
  • No alterations or modifications are allowed
  • May use "N.O.S." may be used as part of a proper shipping name when material does not specifically appear in the table
  • Words in italics are not part of proper shipping name
  • Proper shipping name can be singular/plural; CAPITALIZED or all lower case letters

In Column 2 you will find Four Proper Shipping Name Groups:

  • Group 1: Chemical Name

    Examples: acetone, sulfuric acid, nitrogen

  • Group 2: General Description

    Examples: Adhesives, paint-related materials, compounds, cleaning liquid

  • Group 3: Generic Names (Chemical Family)

    Examples: alcohol, n.o.s., nitrates, n.o.s., insecticide gases, n.o.s.

  • Group 4: Hazard Class Names

    Examples: flammable liquids, n.o.s., corrosive solids, n.o.s., compressed gases, n.o.s.

Hazardous Materials Table - Column 3 - Hazard Class Or Division

All dangerous goods found in the table are assigned to hazard class based on the characteristics of the material. The hazard class assignment is provided in Column 3

  • Hazard class designations correspond to proper shipping names listed in the table
  • Hazard classes are numbered 1 – 9 and the specific definitions are found in 49 CFR 173
  • “FORBIDDEN” in this column means the material may not be transported by any means

Class 1 - Explosives

Explosive Explosives
  • Divided into six (6) divisions
  • Means any article designed to, or inherently capable of, extremely rapid release of gas and heat.
  • Examples: Trinitrophenol (Picric Acid) and Trinitrotoluene.
  • Very limited transporation options

Class 2 - Gases

Flammable Gas Compressed Gases
  • Divided into three (3) divisions
  • Defined by temperature (68°F) and pressure (14.7 psi) at which it becomes gas; and those additional characteristics (corrosivity, flammability, etc.) which provide it's hazard characteristics

    Examples: oxygen, phosgene

Class 3 - Flammable Liquid

Flammable Liquid

Flammable Liquids

  • Liquid with flashpoint of less than 141°F (60.5°C)
  • Flashpoint is the temperature of a liquid at which it’s vapor will ignite but not necessarily burn
  • Examples: Paint thinner, Acetone, Methanol


Class 4 - Flammable Solids

Flammable Solid
Flammable Solid

  • Self-reactive materials that are thermally unstable and that can undergo a strongly exothermic decomposition even without participation of air
  • Divided into three (3) divisions

    • Division 4.1: Flammable Solids

    • Division 4.2: Spontaneously Combustible
    • Division 4.3: Dangerous When Wet

      Example: Sodium Metal

Class 5 – Oxidizing Substances

Oxidizers

Materials that can, generally by yielding oxygen, cause or enhance the combustion of other materials

Oxidizer

Divided into two (2) divisions

  • Division 5.1 Oxidizers
  • Division 5.2 Organic Peroxides

    Examples: Sodium Nitrate, Benzoyl Peroxide

Class 6 - Toxic (Poisonous) Substances

Toxic Substances Toxic

  • Material other than gas that is known to be toxic to humans or viable microorganisms, biological toxins or agents that cause or may cause disease in humans or animals
  • Divided into two (2) divisions
    • Division 6.1 Toxic (other than gas)

      Example: Cyanides

    • Division 6.2 Infectious Substances

      Example: Hepatitis B virus culture

Class 7 - Radioactive Materials

Explosive

Radioactive Materials

  • Materials regulated as radioactive materials under state and federal licenses, including thorium and uranium compounds
  • Considered acutely hazardous substances
  • Restricted by packaging, quantity, labeling & marking, routes of transport and means of transport
  • Example: 32P dCTP

Class 8 - Corrosive Materials

Explosive

Corrosives

  • A liquid or solid that causes visable destruction of or irreversible alterations in living tissue by chemical action within four hours of contact
  • A liquid that has a severe corrosion rate on steel or aluminum

    Examples: Acids, Bases

Class 9 - Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods

Class 9 Miscelleaneous

Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods

  • Material presents hazard during transport but doesn't meet definition of any other hazard class

    Example: Dry Ice

Hazardous Materials Table - Column 4 - Identification Numbers

For each material identified in column 2 you will find an Identification number that has been assigned to each proper shipping name on table in Column 4

  • If the ID number is preceded by “UN” appropriate for international shipment
  • If the ID number is preceded by “NA”, not appropriate for shipment outside of North America

Hazardous Materials Table - Column 5 - Packing Groups

For each material identified in Column 2 you will find a Packing Group number (I, II or III) assigned to each proper shipping name on table in Column 5. The Packing Group number identified the Degree of Danger presented by the material.

  • PG I - Greatest Danger
  • PG II - Moderate Danger
  • PG III - Minor Danger

Hazardous Materials Table - Column 6 - Labeling

For each material identified in Column 2 you will find the required Hazard Label(s) required in Column 6. Hazard labels are squares set at 45 degrees and are required for most dangerous goods packages. These labels are related to the Hazard Class of the material.

  • The first entry represents the primary hazard of the material
  • Additional labels (if any) represent subsidiary hazards

Hazardous Materials Table - Column 7 - Special Provisions

Column 7 lists the Special Provisions that may be applicable to Packaging, Marking or Labeling. Any dangerous goods package must conform to the special provisions limitations or additional regulations.

  • Packages must conform to the special provisions limitations or additional regulations
  • Special provisions are coded with numbers and/or letters
  • Numbers only codes apply to all modes of transportation.
  • Special provisions beginning with the letter "A" apply to air shipments
  • Special provisions beginning with the letter "H" apply to highway shipments (ground shipments)

Hazardous Materials Table - Column 8 - Packaging Authorizations

Column 8 provides the Packaging Exceptions and Authorizations. The number provided in the column(s) is the citation in 49 CFR 173.***, so the number 150 in the column should refer you to 173.150 for additional information. At UWM Column 8A would be most often used to determine if the package can be shipped as an excepted quantity.

  • 8A - packaging exceptions
  • 8B - non-bulk packaging
  • 8C - bulk packaging

Hazardous Materials Table - Column 9 - Quantity Limitations

Column 9 (9A,9B) provides the Quantity Limitations for air or rail transportation

  • 9A - indicates the maximum quantity per package for materials offered for transportation on passenger carrying aircraft
  • 9B - indicated the maximum quantity per package for materials offered for transportation by cargo aircraft.

Hazardous Materials Table - Column 10 - Vessel Storage Requirements

Column 10 provides the Vessel storage requirements for materials shipped aboard sea vessels.

  • 10A - authorized stowage locations on board cargo and passenger vessels
  • 10B - authorized stowage requirements for special hazardous materials
  • DOES NOT APPLY TO MATERIALS TAKEN ABOARD THE NEESKAY

Packaging

All dangerous goods shipped must in packaging that has been manufactured and tested to meet specific performance standards as described in 173.24. Package specifications ensure help ensure that the material is compatible with the packing material and that the package will help prevent a release during activities incident to transportation.

UN Mark

All Specification packaging will be marked with a "code" indicating what material it can be used for that will include the "un" mark; UN is the United Nations symbol

UN Mark

Example:

un

1A2/Y/S/100

04/USA/1443

All codes and markings represent information specific to the package/container

  • 1A - type of container
  • Y - packaging group
  • S - container is for solids
  • 100 - maximum container weight
  • 04 - year of manufacture
  • USA- country of manufacture
  • 1443 - manufacturer's DOT number

Authorized Packagings

Column 8 of Hazardous Materials Table

  • 8A - exceptions
  • 8B - non-bulk
  • 8C - bulk
 Column 8

Remember that Column 8 of Hazardous Materials Table provides information related to the authorized packagings for the dangerous goods article.

Packaging Must Meet Performance Level

Look at Manufacturer's marking on container

  • X = PG I, II and III
  • Y = PG II and III
  • Z = PG III only
 Packing Group

Hazardous Materials Communications

Once the material is identified and placed in the proper package, other steps are followed to convey the type of hazard a material poses to persons exposed to the material during shipment (including emergency responders).

There are four (4) elements of hazardous material communication that are referenced in 49 CFR 172. They are:

Shipping Papers (172.200)

All shipments of hazardous materials must be accompanied by a shipping document. Vendors such as FedEX require the use of their shipping papers. For other shipments a straight bill of lading can be used to meet this transportation requirement.

These documents describe the type and quantity of hazardous materials being transported.

Each shipping description must include the following information:

  • Proper shipping name
  • Hazard Class or Division
  • Identification Number (UN/NA)
  • Packing Group
  • Quantity and Unit of Measure

Shipping papers must be TYPED for FedEx, DHL, and UPS. For other shipments, information can be legibly handwritten in English.

No abbreviations can be used other than those listed as part of the proper shipping name

Emergency Phone Number Required For Shipping Paper

All shipping papers must contain a 24-hour emergency number. This number must be attended at all times the package is in transit and must be answered by an individual able to provide immediate information on the package. To satisfy this requirement, UWM is able to use UW-Madison's contract with Chem-Tel, a service that will advice responders in case of an emergency involving your shipment. To use this service:

  1. Check to see if the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for your material is registered under the University of Wisconsin Account with Chem-Tel. That list can be viewed on the web at:

    "http://www2.fpm.wisc.edu/chemsafety/chemtel3-5-04.pdf". If your MSDS is registered with Chem-tel skip to Step 4 below.

  2. If your MSDS is not registered and it is a week or more before your shipment, mail the MSDS to Chem-Tel at:

    CHEM-TEL
    ATTENTION: Mike Carnegie
    1305 N. Florida Avenue
    Tampa, FL 33602

    Mailed copies are always preferred as they are more clear and most easy to read. Please try to plan ahead and mail your MSDS's for the material you plan to ship.

  3. If you do not have time to mail your MSDS, fax your MSDS and appropriate HazMat shipping papers to Chem-Tel:

    *Use only white 8 ˝ x 11" paper. Chem-Tel needs clear fazes for their database of scanned MSDSs.

    *On your fax cover sheet, ask Chem-Tel to register your MSDS under the Univerisity of Wisconsin.

    *Print "University of Wisconsin" on the first page of each MSDS.

    *Fax these documents to Chem-Tel at 1-813-248-0582.

  4. List Chem-Tel's emergency number on your shipping papers. The text should read:

    "FOR 24-HOUR EMERGENCY SPILL ASSISTANCE CONTACT CHEM-TEL AT 1-800-255-3934"

A copy of the shipping paper must be kept for 2 years after the hazardous material is accepted by the carrier. The shipping paper is to be accessible at the principle place of business when requested by federal, state, or local government officials.

Shipping Papers – Example of Basic Description

Proper shipping Name acetone
Hazard Class/Division 3
Identification Number UN 1090
Packing Group PG II

These four elements must appear in this order!

Package Marking

To distinguish between marking and labeling you can think of marking as written information and labeling as the graphic identification of the hazard present. All packages offered for transport must be marked with information that is not provided on the hazard label.

The marking information will include:

  • Proper shipping name and technical name of material
  • UN/NA identification number
  • Name and address of the consignee (addressee); or name and address of the shipper

Marking

Marking must be -

  • Durable
  • In English
  • Well contrasted from the background color (i.e., no black on black)
  • Away from and unobscured by other labels or attachments

Labeling

Labeling refers to the “graphic” warning labels that identify and communicate the hazards within the package. Package labels will always correspond to the hazard class/division of the material (dangerous goods) in the package

  • Labels are designed and color-coded so that they are readily recognizable.
  • Labels must be provided for primary hazard and, if applicable, the subsidiary hazard label(s) as specified in Column 6 of the Hazardous Materials Table.

NOTE:Do not over-label a package. It is a violation of DOT regulations to display a label(s) on a package prepared for transportation unless the package actually contains the hazard(s) communicated by the label(s).

Additional Container Markings

Additional types of markings that may be required for packages containing hazardous materials include:

  • Directional arrows
  • Inhalation hazard warning
  • Aircraft warning
 Directional Arrows

Placarding

Placards are the large diamond shaped labels posted on the exterior of the transport vehicle. The shipper of the material is required to supply the placard, although most carriers supply their own

Placards are similar to labels in shape, color, and design and are designed to warn and guide emergency responders of appropriate actions to take in the event of an accident. Placards also serve to alert the general public to the potential hazards of the material.

Emergency Response Information

24-hour Emergency Number

  • A 24-hour emergency response telephone number must be provided on the shipping paper.
  • The phone number must be to someone capable of providing information on the material. The use of pagers, answering machines and switchboard is not authorized.
  • The number must be maintained at all times the shipment is in transit.
  • To satisfy this requirement, the University has a contract with Chem-Tel, a service that will advise responders in case of an emergency. Procedures for the use of the service are available from the University Safety and Assurances website.

Emergency Information To Accompany Shipment (In-house)

  • Description of the hazardous material
  • Immediate hazards to health
  • Immediate methods for handling small or large fires, spills or leaks
  • Preliminary first aid measures

Most commercial carriers will provide their own emergency information this will only be necessary with "in-house" transport.

Safety

UWM is committed to protecting faculty, staff, students and visitors, as well as the general public and the environment from the harmful effects of exposure to hazardous materials and dangerous goods. This can be assured if hazardous material shipments are safely shipped, received and handled so that spills, accidents and exposures are prevented.

Preventing Emergencies

Package Receipt

Examine the exterior of all packages before accepting them

  • If any problems are observable DO NOT ACCEPT the shipment
  • Do not touch a container that is open, leaking, weeping, broken or if the hazardous material is not otherwise contained
  • Damaged, wet or leaking packages are the responsibility of the transporter
  • Contact University Safety & Assurances is hazardous material has spilled on UWM property

Package Handling & Storage

  • Handle packages carefully to prevent accidents. Carry packages securely.
  • Store package in upright position, out of pedestrian traffic, until it is delivered or picked up by the appropriate recipient
  • Don't stack boxes of hazardous materials. This will prevent the possibility of accidental tipping.
  • Carry packages securely
  • Open the correct end of the package

Spills

There are two types of spills:

  • SIMPLE SPILLS - one which you can safely clean up yourself
  • HIGH HAZARD SPILLS - one which you can't safely clean up yourself

Contact the UWM Police and/or University Safety & Assurances for additional assistance.

Responding To Spills

To clean up a simple chemical spill (i.e., one which you can safely clean up yourself):

  • Notify your colleagues and your supervisor
  • Control access to the area to prevent contact or spread of the spill
  • Follow appropriate clean up procedures
  • Contact University Safety & Assurances for advice or pick up of waste materials from spill clean up

Preparing For Emergencies

Have available to you:

  • DOT Emergency Response Guide Book
    To request a copy of the Guidebook, contact The Department of University Safety & Assurances
  • Access to material safety data sheets
  • Access to PPE (i.e., gloves) to clean up a spill
  • Access to spill absorbents
  • Emergency Phone Numbers

Emergency Response On Campus

Call UWM Police at 9-911 for:

  • High Hazard Spills (i.e., spills you can't safely clean up yourself)
  • Fires
  • Explosions
  • Injuries

Emergency Response on Campus - University Safety & Assurances

Contact University Safety & Assurances at x6339 for:

  • Spill preparedness consultation
  • Spill cleanup training
  • Help locating a material safety data sheet (MSDS)
  • Assistance and evaluation of spill situations to determine how to clean up the spill

REPORT ALL SPILLS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS INCIDENTS TO University Safety & Assurances!

Emergency Response - DOT Guidebook (ERG)

Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) was developed by the US Department of Transporation for use by individuals who may be first to arrive at the scene of a hazardous materials/dangerous goods incident.

  • Guide to aid responders in quickly identifying the specific or generic hazards of the material(s) involved in the incident and protect themselves and others during the initial response to an incident
  • Four (4) color coded sections
Emergency Response Guidebook

Emergency Response Guidebook - YELLOW SECTION

Identify the material by using the Yellow section of the ERG by:

  • The 4-digit ID number (after UN/NA) on the shipping document or package

Emergency Response Guidebook - BLUE SECTION

Identify the material using the blue section of the ERG by:

  • Using the name of the material on a shipping document, placard or package

Emergency Response Guidebook - ORANGE SECTION

Identify the material by using the orange section of the ERG by:

  • Looking up the material's 3-digit Guide Number from either the yellow or blue section
  • Then turn to the orange section, look for the 3-digit Guide Number in upper corners of pages
  • Follow the instructions listed for potential hazards, public safety and emergency response.

Emergency Response Guidebook - GREEN SECTION

If the index entry is highlighted in either yellow or blue:

  • Look for the ID number and name of the material in the green section
  • If necessary begin protective action
  • Follow the instructions in "Table of Initial Isolation and Protective Distances" in the green section

Hazardous Materials Security

Hazardous materials have the potential for to cause both intentional and accidental damage. Typically the required packaging, labeling, marking documentation and training will control most accidents. Additional security and security awareness is needed to prevent intentional damage from hazardous materials.

In the wake of increased concerns over terrorists threats and recent terrorist attacks, individuals who ship, receive or transport hazardous materials have an increased responsibility to safeguard personnel, facilities and the hazardous materials themselves while they are in the transport chain.

Security: Recognizing The Threat

In the wrong hands hazardous materials can pose a significant security threat. Examples include:

  • 1984 Salmonella, Oregon
  • 1993/2001 World Trade Center
  • 1995 Federal Building
  • 1999 Elk Grove, CA arrest 2 members of an antigovernment group plotting to blow up 24 million gallons of propane
  • 2001 Anthrax, US Mail

Security: Potential Targets

  • Biological toxins and agents: Anthrax, Salmonella, Shigella
  • Bulk flammables: gasoline, propane
  • Toxic gases: chlorine, cyanide, arsine
  • Component materials - Examples: acetone, denatured alcohol, methanol, red phosphorus, toluene

Security: Package Control Measures Upon Receipt

Packages containing hazardous materials should be properly identified and accounted for at all times!

  • Packages should be protected against access by unauthorized or unknown personnel
  • Packages should be marked and labeled in accordance with USDOT regulations
  • Packages should be marked to identify the shipper
  • All packages must be accompanied with the appropriate shipping papers as required by USDOT

Security: Package Shipmnent

  • Select a carrier who can track or trace each step of the package during transport
  • Maintain a chain of custody of the package
  • Keep packages awaiting shipment in a secure location

Security: Building/Office

  • Don't prop open doors
  • Account for and secure keys and access codes. Don't leave them unattended or give to unauthorized persons.
  • Report lost keys
  • Secure all areas when not attended
  • Be aware of unfamiliar persons or visitors
  • Report tampering with doors, locks, etc.

Security: Suspicious Behavior/Circumstances

Be Aware of and Report:

  • People in buildings or areas who do not appear to be conducting legitimate business (loitering, etc.)
  • Unauthorized personnel in restricted, sensitive or private areas
  • Lost or damaged packages

Security: Suspicious Packages

Screen "Unusual" Packages. Evaluate all packages received. Take caution whenever receiving mail or packages of suspicious origin or questionable content.

Ask yourself the follow questions when screening packages received:

  • Is the article unexpected or does it appear unfamiliar?
  • Is the address vague or incomplete?
  • Is the return address missing?
  • Does it have unusual weight or texture?
  • Are there restrictive markings such as "for addressee only" or "personal"?
  • Is the package addressed to an individual who no longer works within your department?
  • Do not attempt to touch, open or move any suspicious package.

Isolate Questionable or Damaged Packages

If you receive a package which you are concerned about, isolate the package in a secure area and request assistance.

If possible request the assistance of a co-worker or another person in your area to immediately contact the University Police at 9-911 from any campus phone or 229-9911 from a cellphone to inform them of the package.

Wait for the police to arrive. If there is a concern of personal contamination do not allow others who may have been in the area where the package was received or opened to leave until the Police arrive and assess the situation.

Response Actions

University Police will isolate the package and initiate all follow-up activities involving University Safety and Assurances and/or the Milwaukee Fire Department Hazardous Materials Unit as appropriate. Follow-up actions will be based on each individuals potential for exposure to the hazardous material or suspected agent.

Security Awareness Summary

  • Secure hazardous material packages in a supervised or locked area
  • Only release hazardous material packages to known individuals
  • Watch for unfamiliar persons or disgruntled personnel who seek to gain access to hazardous material packages

In Conclusion:

  • Check your shipments! Do they contain hazardous materials or dangerous goods. Hazardous material shipments should only be handled an/or shipped by knowledgeable and trained staff.
  • Seek information from the commercial carrier if you will be using one. Follow their packaging, labeling and marking instructions precisely.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Contact University Safety and Assurances if you have questions at any time regarding the receipt or shipment of hazardous materials.

Questions?

Contact the Department of University Safety and Assurances at x6339:

  • If you are unsure if the material you wish to ship is a hazardous material/dangerous good.
  • If you need assistance in classifying a material, selecting a shipping container, shipping method, shipping vendor or completing shipping documents.
  • If you would like additional training for your specific job functions

Testing And Certification

This completes the General Awareness Training section. Click here to access the on-line exam for this training.

Upon the completion of this exam please complete the function-specific training module applicable to your work function.

Updated October 8, 2007 by SAK