Hazardous Materials

Section 5 -MEDICAL

It is imperative that the SAFETY of the civilian and emergency personnel be maintained while dealing with Hazardous Materials.
PROTECT YOURSELF! Do not attempt to treat or remove the patient from exposure without appropriate personal protective equipment.
Request response of Specialty Units / Haz-Mat Team.
Maintain safe zone and assess scene from appropriate distance.
Request information from Haz-Mat Incident Commander as to safety of approaching victims.
After obtaining clearance from Haz-Mat Team and / or after the patient is decontaminated:
- While wearing heavy rubber gloves or two pair of regular exam gloves, remove ALL patient's clothing and place all materials, including the gloves, in a red biohazard bag.
- Irrigate patient with water.
Advise Initial Receiving Facility of situation as soon as possible to facilitate early hospital preparations.
INITIAL MEDICAL or TRAUMA CARE (2.01/2.02). Follow appropriate Practice Parameters for specific cases.