Module 9: Control Techniques - International Association of Fire ...

Student Text IAFF Training for Hazardous Materials: Technician© 

Module 9: 

Control Techniques 

Module 9: Control Techniques 9-1

IAFF Training for Hazardous Materials: Technician© 

Student Text 

9-2 Module 9: Control Techniques


Module 9: Control Techniques 

Module Description 

This module covers defensive and offensive control methods used by hazardous materials response 

team members. Basic confinement techniques such as diking and damming are 

overviewed, while more advanced containment procedures such as plugging, patching, and 

overpacking are addressed in more detail. Special considerations (transfer operations, for example) 

are also discussed. 

Prerequisites 

• Students should have completed a hazardous materials operations level training program. 

• Students should have completed Module 7: Personal Protective Equipment and Module 

8: Decontamination, and demonstrated the required competencies. 



Student Text 

Objectives 

Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to: 

Objectives 

• Describe the differences between “confinement” and “containment” 

operations. 

• Describe the considerations of performing “offensive” operations. 

• Describe methods used to reduce hazards before offensive actions are 

taken. 

• Describe basic procedures for reducing hazards while engaged in 

offensive operations. 

• Describe three basic techniques for reducing hazards of product spills/ 

releases. 

• Given a pressure vessel, select the appropriate equipment and demonstrate 

a method of containing leaks from the following sources: fusible 

metal plug, fusible plug threads, sidewall of container, valve blowout, 

valve gland, valve inlet threads, valve seat, valve stem assembly failure. 

• Given a pressure vessel, demonstrate the ability to: close valves that are 

open, replace missing plugs, tighten loose plugs. 

• Demonstrate the ability to contain the following types of leaks in a 55- 

gallon drum: bung leak, chime leak, forklift puncture, nail puncture. 

• Given a 55-gallon drum, demonstrate the following overpack techniques: 

rolling slide-in (vee roll), slide-in, slip-over. 

• Given an MC 306/DOT 406, demonstrate the proper use of a dome clamp 

to seal a dome cover leak. 

• Identify methods, equipment and considerations in controlling a fire in an 

MC 306/DOT 406 aluminum shell tanker. 

• Describe at least one method for containing the following types of leaks 

in MC 306/DOT 406, MC 307/DOT 407, MC 312/DOT 412, tankers: 

dome cover leak, irregular shaped hole, puncture, split or tear. 

• Describe three product removal and transfer considerations for the 

following overturned tankers: MC 306/DOT 406, MC 307/DOT 407, 

MC 312/DOT 412, MC 331, MC 338. 

• Describe three safety considerations in product transfer operations. 

• Identify the maintenance and inspection procedures for the tools and 

equipment used for mitigation by the jurisdiction, according to the 

manufacturer. 

NFPA 

Standards 

NFPA 472 1-2 

NFPA 472 4-3.1 

NFPA 472 4-3.2 

NFPA 472 4-5.1 

NFPA 472 

4-3.5.1 

NFPA 4-4.3.1 

NFPA 472 

4-4.3.2 

NFPA 472 

4-4.3.3 

NFPA 472 

4-4.3.4 

NFPA 472 

4-4.3.8 

NFPA 472 

4-4.3.9 

NFPA 472 

4-4.3.10 

NFPA 472 

4-4.3.10 

NFPA 472 

4-4.3.7 

NFPA 472 

4-4.3.5 

OSHA 

Standards 

29 CFR 1910.120 

(q) (6) (iii) (F) 

29 CFR 1910.120 

(q) (6) (iii) (F) 

29 CFR 1910.120 

(q) (6) (iii) (F) 

29 CFR 1910.120 

(q) (6) (iii) (F) 

29 CFR 1910.120 

(q) (6) (iii) (F) 

29 CFR 1910.120 

(q) (6) (iii) (F) 

29 CFR 1910.120 

(q) (6) (iii) (F) 

29 CFR 1910.120 

(q) (6) (iii) (F) 

29 CFR 1910.120 

(q) (6) (iii) (F) 

29 CFR 1910.120 

(q) (6) (iii) (F) 

29 CFR 1910.120 

(q) (6) (iii) (F) 

29 CFR 1910.120 

(q) (6) (iii) (F) 

29 CFR 1910.120 

(q) (6) (iii) (F) 

29 CFR 1910.120 

(q) (6) (iii) (F) 



Instructor Preparation 



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Module 9 

Prerequisite Quiz 

1. Most 55-gallon drums have openings in the top fitted with plugs and caps. These openings 

are called: 

A. Bungs 

B. Chimes 

C. Vents 

D. None of the above 

2. The best type of control technique for trapping solid materials floating on running water 

is: 

A. An overflow dam 

B. An underflow dam 

C. A dike 


3. Oxygen gas would most likely be transported in which type of tank car? 

A. Pressure tank car 

B. Non-pressure tank car 

C. Cryogenic liquid tank car 

D. High pressure tube car 

4. Which of the following is usually built to contain releases on land? 

A. Booms 

B. Dams 

C. Diversion pits 

D. Dikes 

5. Which of the following statements is true of overpacking? 

A. Overpacking should only be used on 55-gallon drums. 

B. Leaking drums do not need to be sealed before they are overpacked. 

C. Overpack drums must be marked. 

D. Overpack drums must be made of plastic. 

6. Which of the following control techniques are fire fighters usually responsible for? 

A. Off-loading 

B. Venting and burning 

C. Product transfer 




Student Text 

7. Which of the following control techniques involves releasing gas vapors into the atmosphere 

to reduce tank pressure? 

A. Vapor flaring 

B. Hot tapping 

C. Cold tapping 

D. Venting 

8. Which of the following items is often used as an adsorbent? 

A. Sand 

B. Sawdust 

C. Cat litter 

D. Clay 

9. Cargo tanks can be constructed from any of the following materials. Which one is softest 

and will puncture most easily? 

A. Aluminum 

B. Quenched and tempered steel 

C. Mild steel 

D. Stainless steel 

10. Which type of tank car is the most common? 

A. Pressure tank cars 

B. Non-pressure tank cars 

C. Cryogenic liquid tank cars 

D. High pressure tube cars 



Introduction 

Questions 

1. What is the difference between “confinement” and 

“containment”? 

2. What are three ways an overpack drum can be used? 

3. Why are frangible disks designed to fail completely at 

specified pressures? 

You should conduct a hazard analysis at every emergency 

response. A hazard analysis helps you determine what, if 

any, offensive interventions are needed. At every incident, 

your response team should ask: 

• What is the product? 

• How much is there? (A lot/a little) 

• What is it doing? (Leaking product, releasing energy, 

stressed?) 

• Where is it going? 

• How is it getting there? (Airborne, pressure, liquid, 

heat, etc.) 

• Who or what is threatened? (Responders, public, environment) 

• What will happen next? (Nothing? Get worse?) 

• What will happen if nothing is done? 

• Can we protect the threatened? 

• How? (Defensive or offensive?) 

• When? (Can we wait?) 

• With what? (Do we have the equipment and personnel?) 

• At what risk? (Is it worth it?) 

Asking the simple question, “What will happen if we do 

nothing?” can sometimes save a great amount of risk, cost, 

and aggravation. In some cases, no action is the best 

action. This is not to say hazardous materials teams should 

do nothing, but the idea that offensive actions are always 

indicated should be discarded. Instead, determine what 

dangers actually exist and balance them against what 

actions can be taken to reduce them. The response action 

steps outlined in Appendix B and the corresponding forms 

will help you balance risk versus benefit. 



Student Text 

Safety 

General Hazards 

Besides obvious chemical hazards, other hazards may exist. 

They include: 

• Physical hazards include slip/trip hazards, narrow 

walkways, ladders, or electrical lines. If these hazards 

are apparent, take extreme care. Better yet, investigate 

an alternative means of access. 

Sharp edges on or near containers may snag or puncture 

protective garments. Extra heavy overgloves and boots 

or outer suit covers may be needed. 

Many containment operations require extensive physical 

effort. Making these efforts in chemical protective 

clothing is difficult at best, so the performance of the 

entry team should be carefully monitored. 

• Environmental hazards are obvious, but often overlooked. 

Heat, cold, rain and snow will affect your 

efficiency and working time, requiring you to make 

adjustments. Also be aware that operations may start in 

light, but continue into darkness; make sure you have 

appropriate lighting on hand. 

• Container hazards often cause injuries. A leaking 

container indicates that some type of stress has occurred. 

Determining the source of stress causing the 

breach can help you predict future container behavior. 

Pressure vessels are exceptionally dangerous. In addition 

to the hazard itself, the container may rupture. 

• Container stability is extremely critical. All the 

protective clothing available will not protect you if a 

container falls on you. Assess the stability of a container 

and correct it, if necessary, before you begin 

containment operations. 

• Container integrity is an issue because if the container 

has already been breached, it has lost some of its integrity. 

The container must be able to support the contain- 



ment techniques you chose. For example, a tank leaking 

product because of extensive corrosion will probably 

not withstand the application of a bandage device. 

The device itself may cause further damage. 

• Energy releases must be prevented when you are 

working in the Hot Zone. Recognize that the container 

itself may contain energy in the form of pressure. In 

industrial settings, other energy sources like motors, 

fans, presses, or heaters may activate automatically. Be 

sure any electrical equipment is locked and tagged out 

before you begin work. 

Ignition sources should also be controlled as a matter of 

procedure, regardless of the flammability hazards. 

Basic Safety Procedures 

Regardless of product or container, some basic safety 

procedures should be followed. 

• Have a plan. Have a clear understanding of what you 

are trying to accomplish. As a team, you have a duty to 

each other and to yourself to develop a plan and delegate 

responsibility appropriately. If a plan cannot be 

implemented because of unforeseen circumstances, the 

team should back out and regroup, rather than going 

ahead with an impromptu plan. 

• Stay away from the product. Walk around puddles, 

avoid kneeling in product or leaning on things, and stay 

away from escaping gas plume. These practices should 

become second nature to experienced responders. Team 

members should watch out for each other. 

• Have correct tools available. Labor saving devices 

like drum levers, dollies, and handcarts can prevent 

stress. 

• Reduce leaks before containing them. Many leaks/ 

releases can be minimized or even eliminated by simply 

re-orienting the container. Containers leaking liquids 

can be rolled so that the breach is above product level. 

Containers of liquefied gases that are leaking liquid 



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product can often be moved so the breach is in the 

vapor space. 

• Protect against fire. Whenever working with or near 

flammable products, have charged lines of adequate 

caliber and an established water supply. Based on the 

degree of hazard, consider having charged foam lines. 

• Stay alert. In the heat of the moment, responders 

sometimes develop tunnel vision. A single minded 

focus on a leak may blind you to other hazards such as 

a hole just in front of you, or a low bridge ahead. Force 

yourself to step back and survey the entire scene and 

carefully note changing conditions. 

Activity 



Confinement vs. 

Containment 

Confinement and containment are sometimes used interchangeably, 

but there is a difference. Confinement refers 

to actions taken to keep a material in a defined or local 

area. Containment refers to actions taken to keep a material 

in its container. 

Confinement 

Confinement is the process of limiting a product spill (an 

air release, solid or liquid) to the smallest possible area. 

Confinement can often take place away from the actual 

product itself, and therefore is defensive. Well equipped, 

well trained operational personnel (first responders as well 

as hazardous material technicians) should be capable of a 

variety of confinement activities. Always consider confinement 

techniques before you attempt containment. 

General Confinement Techniques 

Solids are perhaps the easiest products to confine. With the 

possible exception of dusts, they usually remain where they 

fall. Site control is one confinement technique. You can 

also lay plastic sheeting or tarps over the spill to keep wind 

and rain from dispersing the product. 

Liquids present more challenges to responders. Liquids 

spread, based on terrain and viscosity. They can also be 

absorbed into surfaces. 



Student Text 

• Diking or damming is perhaps the easiest method to 

confine a liquid spill. A barrier (dirt, absorbent booms, 

plastic wrapped hose, sand, etc.) is placed ahead of the 

spill to prevent it from spreading. This keeps the area 

involved to a minimum and reduces the surface area 

available for volatile liquid evaporation. 

• Absorption/adsorption can be used with or instead of 

diking and damming. This involves the use of another 

material placed directly on the liquid. The liquid either 

completely soaks into the product (absorbs) or adheres 

to the surface (adsorbs). This also prevents the flow 

and spread of the product and can make cleanup easier. 

• Diversion channels liquids to another, less sensitive 

area. On land, this is accomplished by dikes placed 

ahead of the spill to force the flow to another area. On 

water, booms may be placed across the flow of water to 

direct a lighter than water product. 



• Retention is the act of holding liquids until they can be 

neutralized, diluted or removed. Building a circular 

dike around a drum creates a retention pit for the 

product. Products may also be diverted to another more 

suitable area for retention. 

• Dispersion uses special agents to break up non-soluble 

liquids spilled in water. Dispersant agents are commonly 

used on hydrocarbons (e.g., oil spills at sea), but 

do not change the hazard itself. 

Gases and vapors present the most difficult challenges to 

responders. Gases and vapors spread based on their properties, 

the terrain, and the weather. They also present the 

greatest risk to the public because they may travel long 

distances from the site and manifest no warning signs such 

as odor or taste. 

• Confining a liquid spill to a small area by damming or 

diking will drastically reduce vapor production. There 

are two other basic methods of confining a gas/vapor 

release. 

• Suppression is used on liquids that are producing 

hazardous vapors. The most common type of vapor 

suppression uses fire fighting foams on liquid fuel 

spills. Foam blankets the spill and prevents or reduces 

vapor production. Special foams for use on corrosives 

are also available. Suppressing vapors does not change 

or eliminate the hazard permanently; rather it reduces 

the immediate hazard and allows responders time for a 

better planned response. 

Fire fighting foam used on a gasoline spill to suppress vapors 



Student Text 

• Vapor dispersion consists of moving gas/vapor to 

another area or diluting its concentration in air to 

reduce its hazardous effects. Fire fighters are taught 

that a large caliber fog stream can move great amounts 

of air via hydraulic ventilation. This same principal can 

be applied to gas/vapor releases. Remember that this 

method will only move the hazard to another area or 

reduce its concentration, and that may be all that is 

necessary to protect the endangered area. When fog 

streams are used on water soluble gases/vapors, the 

product itself may be absorbed by the water. This may 

cause a residual hazardous, evaporating solution; but 

again, it may be necessary for the protection of an area. 

Containment 

Containment usually refers to stopping or slowing a leak 

from a container. It can also refer to chemically changing a 

hazardous material to another, less hazardous material to 

reduce its dangerous properties. 

Containment Techniques and Equipment 

Containment activities usually involve contact with a 

hazardous product and requires that attention be given to 

proper PPE/CPC selection and decontamination. 

• Neutralization involves adding a different chemical to 

the spilled chemical to reduce or eliminate the hazards. 

This method is mainly used with corrosives. This 

technique produces—in addition to the two original 

chemicals—a chemical reaction from the neutralization 

process, and a new, neutralized product. To select the 

proper PPE, you must research the original chemical, 

the neutralizing chemical, and resultant chemical. 

Neutralization is not always an effective way to mitigate 

a spill and can create more problems than it solves. 

It can also be extremely dangerous. Neutralization 

should only be attempted by experienced teams with 

appropriate equipment and training. Obtain outside 

resources to ensure a safe process. 

• Overpacking is the process of putting the damaged 

container and its contents into an undamaged container. 



Overpack containers are typically 85-gallon plastic or 

metal drums with sealable tops. Overpacking is typically 

used with leaking 55-gallon drums, but can also 

be used for smaller containers such as jars, pails, carboys, 

bags, and bottles. Overpacking is also used to 

store used absorbents. 

When using an overpack container, be sure to: 

• Use a drum made of material that is compatible 

with the hazardous substance. 

• Use a drum large enough to contain the leaking 

container and any spilled product. 

• Label the container with the name of the spilled 

product and the words “Salvage Drum.” 

• Avoid placing too much product in the overpack 

drum, which could cause overpressurization and 

leaks. 

Pressure containers can be overpacked with specialized 

overpack devices. These devices are extremely expensive 

and not usually carried by response agencies. 

• Plugging is placing an object into an opening on a 

container, whether it is an engineered opening (e.g., 

valve stem) or a stress related breach (e.g., puncture, 

rip, tear). Plugging devices can be made on-scene or 

commercially purchased. Items used are wooden 

wedges, dowels, and tapered cones, expandable rubber 

stoppers, pneumatic operated neoprene plugs, screwlike 

devices—almost anything that is resistant to the 

chemical and can be tightly fitted into the opening. 

Pneumatic plugs ranging in size from a few inches to 

over three feet are available for large holes or pipe 

breaches. 



Student Text 

• Patching is the placement of a material over an opening 

in a container. Again, these devices can be purchased 

commercially or made by responders. Patching items 

used include neoprene or rubber gasket material with 

webbing, epoxy/glue patches, and sections of containers 

cut to fit various curves. There are many pre-made kits 

available for use in plug and patch operations. Some 

manufacturers produce kits that contain various sizes of 

rubber stoppers, cone wedges, molly bolts for use with 

stoppers, different sizes and materials of gaskets, epoxy 

patches and web-type clamps. These can be used on 

smaller leaks on any size container. 

• Bandages can be used with, or instead of patches. 

Bandages, which are usually made of flexible metal, 

encircle the container to hold a patch in place. They 

can be pneumatically operated, tied, twisted, or tightened 

by toggle bolts. 

• Auxiliary closure devices are meant to be used when 

an engineered opening such as a valve, cover, or 

manway has been breached. Dome cover clamps are 

typically used on the manways of road liquid cargo 

tanks. They fit over the dome cover of a manway and 

tighten down to press the cover back into position. If 

the leak is caused by a faulty or missing gasket, dome 

cover clamps may not stop the release completely. 

Dome clamps can be purchased in varying sizes. It is 

advisable to carry more than one size and to carry 

enough to control breaches in all size covers you may 

encounter in your jurisdiction. Kits are available for 

cylinders that allow you to place a hood over a leaking 

valve. This hood contains another valve which can then 

be closed. 



Activity 

• Sealants are clay-like, chemically-resistant materials 

that can be used like putty to seal leaks from small 

holes or tears, or to seal the area around a leaking 

plugging device. They can be a quick and effective 

means to seal small leaks before overpacking or bandaging, 

however they may not be effective when the 

head pressure increases. Commercial sealants are 

available from a variety of sources. Most are resistant 

to fuels, and specialized corrosive resistant types can be 

purchased. 

• Engineered and provided methods refers to devices 

that are built into the container. Many fixed facility 

containers have redundant valve systems which means 

the product can be shut off at more than one place. If 

you can find a product control flow valve, you may be 

able to stop the flow without direct intervention. Always 

check with the container owner or specialist to 

determine that closing a valve will not cause a problem 

elsewhere. 

The Chlorine Institute developed specialized containment 

kits for cylinders and tanks transporting their 

product. The “Chlorine A Kit” is designed to handle 

cylinders with a capacity of up to 150 lbs. The “Chlorine 

B Kit” is designed to handle one ton cylinders and 

the “Chlorine C Kit” is designed to handle leaks from 

dedicated rail cars of chlorine. Chlorine kit instructions 

as well as manuals on chlorine, can be obtained from 

the Chlorine Institute, 2001 L St., N.W., Washington, 

D.C. 20036. 

These kits contain a variety of materials and can be 

used to seal almost any kind of leak from a pressure 

cylinder of chlorine. They are large, heavy and very 

specialized but they do come with an excellent set of 

instructions and procedures. If a jurisdiction intends to 

use one or more of these kits, it is mandatory that you 

train with them on a regular basis and maintain proficiency 

in their use. An emergency scene is not the 

place to learn how to use these items. 



Student Text 

Purchasing Containment Equipment 

There is a variety of containment equipment available 

commercially, ranging from relatively inexpensive rubber 

stoppers and wooden wedges, to expensive pneumatic plugs 

and bandages and specialized kits for cylinders. 

Your primary concern, after your safety, is whether the 

plug, patch or other containment item will resist the leaking 

product. It is of little value to contain a leak, only to have 

the containment device dissolve. 

Based on your hazard analysis, you may need specialized 

containment devices and materials. Check with local 

industry. They deal with leaks of their products on a more 

frequent basis than you, and have probably developed or 

purchased confinement and containment devices that work 

effectively. 

You can also fabricate your own devices based on the 

common hazards in your area. When making or buying 

containment equipment, always consider the equipment’s 

chemical resistance and ease of use while wearing CPC. 

Develop a resource list of equipment available from industries 

in your jurisdiction. You will need access to this 

equipment to train and maintain proficiency in its use. 

Auxiliary Tools/Equipment 

There are many items used in containment activities that 

do not actually contain the product. 

• Bung wrenches are specially designed tools used to 

tighten the bungs and vents on drums. They are usually 

non-sparking. 

• Non-sparking tools such as wrenches, hammers and 

clamps are used to prevent sparking in a flammable 

atmosphere. 

• Drum levers help you upright drums by providing 

leverage. 

• Drum dollies/carts are designed to help you move 

drums easily. They typically slide under a container 

and allow you to wheel it away. 



Basic Control 

Techniques 

Assessing Damage 

Use the following checklist as a guide for assessing damage, 

whether a release is from a cargo tank or a tank car: 

Cracks: 

• Cracks are narrow splits or breaks in material caused by 

fatigue or impact. 

• Cracks may lead to catastrophic failure in pressurized 

containers. 

Scores: 

• Scores are reductions in thickness when the container is 

indented. 

Gouges: 

• Gouges are reductions in the thickness of a container 

when part of the container material is removed. 

Dents: 

• Dents are deformations in a tank caused by blunt objects. 

• Sharp radius dents may result in cracking. 

Burns: 

• Wheel burns result from constant contact with a turning 

wheel which reduces the thickness of the tank car. 

• Rail burns result from a moving tank passing over a 

stationary object. 

• Street burns are deformations in a tank shell caused by 

sliding on pavement. 

Points to Remember: 

• Damage may be to outer shell only and may be difficult 

to assess. 

• Pressure containers may fail catastrophically. 

• Valves may not operate properly when they are in a 

different orientation (sideways, upside down); this may 

be the cause of the leak. 

• If you are unsure of the container status: 

• Get expert help. 

• Take all defensive measures. 



Student Text 



Control Techniques for 

Non-Bulk Containers 

Non-bulk containers probably account for most hazardous 

material calls. Many times they will be empty or almost 

empty when you arrive. Mitigation is often directed to spill 

control or protecting undamaged containers. 

There are a number of ways a non-bulk container can be 

damaged. The container may fail completely as a result of 

over pressurizing, shattering, or a BLEVE. Failure, however, 

is not usually catastrophic. It is more common for a 

valve to leak or a container to be punctured. Occasionally, 

storage of incompatible chemicals causes container failure. 

Generally, your spill control techniques will be limited to 

righting the container; tightening or closing valves, bungs, 

and clamps; repacking; and ensuring that pressure will not 

build up. Do not seal safety relief devices 

Mitigation Methods 

Many hazardous materials emergencies involve leaking 55- 

gallon drums. There are several methods for controlling 

drum leaks. 

Overpacking 

Overpacking is one of the most common control techniques 

for leaking 55-gallon drums. However, before you attempt 

an overpack, make every effort to stop the leak. 

Overpacking involves placing a leaking drum into a larger 

drum. Overpack drums are usually made specifically for 

this purpose. An overpack drum can be used in three ways 

depending on the orientation of the leaking drum. Invert 

the overpack drum and place it over the leaking drum. Tilt 

both drums horizontally, then vertically, so the overpack 

drum is oriented with its open top up. 

If the drum is horizontal, use a slide-in method. Place the 

open end of a horizontal overpack drum near an end of the 



Student Text 

leaking drum. Raise the end of the leaking drum while 

your partner slides the overpack around the leaking drum. 

Then, push the leaking drum into the overpack and tilt both 

drums to an upright position. An alternative is a rolling 

slide-in or V-roll method in which you place the open end 

of the overpack drum under the rim of the leaking drum. 

Orient the drums so that they form a wide letter “V”. Push 

the drums from the apex of the “V” so that the rolling 

motion causes the leaking drum to roll into the overpack 

drum. Tilt both drums to an upright position. 

Whenever overpacking drums, consider the integrity of the 

leaking drum. In overpack operations, the container will 

experience a fair amount of stress. The weight of the drum 

should also be considered. A nearly full 35-gallon drum of 

sulfuric acid can weigh close to 600 pounds. 

Plugging / Patching 

Plugging and patching are other techniques for controlling 

the flow of product. 

Commercial Kits 

Commercial kits usually contain molly bolts, screws, 

rubber stoppers, wedges, clamps, patches, epoxy, and other 

assorted items. Kits are useful for small leaks on either 

small or large containers. However, to use these items you 

must usually come in contact with the product. Also, the 

area around the leak must be in good condition—intact, 

strong, and not corroded. 

Bandages 

Metal, rubber, or plastic bandages can be wrapped around 

containers to make a seal. However, they must often be 

inflated to press against container and seal tightly. In 

addition, the area the bandage is applied to must be relatively 

strong. 

Pneumatic Plugs 

Pneumatic plugs can be used for mitigating pipe leaks. 

They range from four inches to three feet in diameter, and 

must be inflated or expanded to work properly. 



Sealants 

Most sealants are clay-like materials useful for filling 

punctures. They must be compatible with flammable 

liquids, and may be used in conjunction with other techniques. 

They are temporary at best, and may not have 

enough adhesion for high “head pressure”. 

Areas of Drum Leaks 

Before you attempt to plug or patch a drum, consider the 

effect of this action. Many drums will be empty or almost 

empty when you arrive. Drums can leak for a number of 

reasons and from a number of locations. If a drum is 

leaking from corrosion, a plug or patch application may 

cause further damage. It may be best to overpack without 

initial containment. 

Drums often leak from bungs, the small round holes in the 

top of the drum. If a drum is leaking from a bung, roll the 

drum so that the leak is above the product, then tighten the 

bung with the appropriate wrench. Many times, this will be 

all you need to do to control a leak. 

If a drum is leaking at the chime (the rim), upright the 

drum so most of the product is below the leak. 

If a drum is breached on the side, and overpacking is not 

possible, a plug or patch may be the best solution. Position 

the drum so that the breach is above the product. Sometimes 

a combination of plugging and patching will ensure a 

complete seal. 



Student Text 

Small punctures, like nail punctures, are often hidden. 

Expose them by laying the drum on its side and observing 

for the location of the leak. Then orient the puncture above 

the product. Sealants or plugs usually work well with 

punctures. 

Cylinders 

Chlorine A and B kits are available for controlling chlorine 

and container leaks. These kits are used to control valve 

and plug leaks in 100-150 lb. chlorine cylinders (A kit) or 

ton containers (B kit). Kits may be used on similar sized 

cylinders, regardless of product. Chlorine leaks are controlled 

by placing caps over the leak area and forcing them 

into place with leverage from parts attached to the tank. 

You must be trained to apply these kits. If your department 

has them, make sure you receive regular training in their 

use. 

Plugging/Patching Pressure Vessels 

Containing leaks from pressurized vessels such as cylinders 

can be risky, depending on the product, the amount of 

pressure of the container, and the possibility of vapor 

clouds obscuring your vision. 

These situations are difficult because of the specialized 

tools required to control pressure leaks. Most of these 

devices are designed for specific containers and consist of a 

screw-on apparatus that allows the pressure to escape until 

a control valve is closed. If you have access to these tools, 

you should practice using them on non-leaking vessels. 

First, practice without protective clothing until the parts and 

procedures are familiar. Then practice wearing gloves and 

SCBA. Finally, practice in full drills with chemical protective 

clothing. Cylinders filled with compressed air can 

provide more realistic training. 

Leaks from pressure relief valves are not breaches. Pressure 

relief devices are designed to safely release container 

pressure and to protect container integrity. Sealing them in 

any way may increase stress on the container system. 




for Cargo Tanks 

Over the road cargo tanks are found in almost every jurisdiction 

in North America. Carriers include non-pressure 

and low-pressure tanks, high-pressure cargo tanks, corrosive 

liquid carriers, and cryogenic liquid carriers. 

Types of Leaks 

Piping/Valve Leaks 

Leaks from valves and intake and discharge piping are 

relatively common on cargo tanks. They can be caused by 

lack of proper maintenance or by direct impact damage. 

You must fully understand the purpose and uses of various 

valves and pipes you may encounter. If at all possible, 

contact persons familiar with the tanker such as the driver, 

shipper, or carrier company. They can help you properly 

stop a piping or valve leak. 

Piping leaks can be stopped by either closing valves or 

tightening packing. If piping is leaking, it is better to close 

a valve before the leak than to seal the leak. This containment 

method limits product contact and risk. 

The type of tanker and its product will have a substantial 

effect on operations. MC 306/DOT 406 and MC 307/DOT 

407 cargo tanks use gravity for off-loading, minimizing 

piping pressure. 



Student Text 

MC 312/DOT 412 tankers use gravity and/or internal tank 

pressure to off-load. Pressure in piping may be near 75 psi. 

Leaking corrosives can cause additional chemical stress to 

the outside of the tank, piping or valves. 

Activity 

Dome Cover Leaks 

A dome cover may become loose and leak as a result of a 

rollover. Dome cover clamps are used to stop this type of 

leak. Cargo tanks, when not on their wheels, may be 

unstable. They may also have suffered physical container 

damage. If other damage to the container is not a problem 

and the tank is stable, you can apply the appropriate size 

dome clamp. Obviously, you will not be able to upright the 

tank. 

Physical hazards of the product become a serious concern 

in clamp operations because you will most likely have 

considerable product contact during approach and containment 

activities. Slip hazards will almost always be present. 

Access may also present a problem. If the tank has rolled 

over, the covers may be beneath the tank. If the tank has 

not rolled over, you may have to use a ladder to safely 

access the dome cover. 

Tears/Irregular Holes/Punctures 

Breaches in cargo tank bodies can be caused by vehicular 

accident, rollover, or impact with other objects such as 

forklifts. Depending on the location of the breach, releases 

can range from 2,500 gallons in a single compartment to 

over 7,000 gallons from multiple compartments. These 

types of leaks are commonly handled by hazardous materials 

teams. 

Most of these breaches can be controlled with the same 

methods used on smaller liquid containers like drums. 

However, you must plan for potential hazards of a large 

volume release because of the size of the containers. 



Although control techniques for drums are similar for tanks, 

tank breaches may be larger or require more control materials. 

You can purchase bandages developed specifically for 

use with cargo tanks or large quantities of absorbents. 

If the leak is above the product line, containment will be 

relatively easy. You will be able to apply the appropriate 

plug, patch and/or bandage with minimal product contact. 

As always, determine container integrity, especially in the 

area of the patch or plug. This may be difficult, however, 

depending on the size of the tank and location of the 

breach. 

If the leak is below the product line, significant product 

release may be occurring during containment operations. 

You may not be able to apply plugs and/or patches because 

of the force of product flow caused by head pressure. 

Containing leaks of large volume flow is difficult at best, 

and will result in contamination of the entry team. 

Another problem that may develop is the product’s reaction 

with the outside container. Corrosives tanks are generally 

stainless steel or steel construction lined with butyl rubber 

or some other resistant material. If an MC 312/DOT 412 

has had a breach in that liner, the corrosive will contact the 

steel outside the container and possibly work its way between 

the liner/tank interface, seriously reducing the structural 

integrity of the container. 

Vents/Relief Valves/Rupture Disk Leaks 

Vents are designed to allow normal vapor release. They are 

engineered to prevent leaks of liquid product if there is a 

rollover. If liquid is being released from a vent, it has 

probably failed. You must consult with container specialists 

and assess the risks fully to determine why the vent is 

leaking and the ramifications of containing the leak. 

Relief valves are designed to operate in case a container is 

overpressurized. MC 338 cargo tanks’ (cryogenic carriers) 

relief valves or vents normally operate as the product inside 

vaporizes, increasing pressure inside the vessel. If the 

cargo tank is not a cryogenic carrier and the relief valve is 

operating, you should find out why. Do not try to contain 



Student Text 

relief valve releases. If the vapors are causing a hazard, 

then efforts should be defensive. 

Rupture and frangible disks are designed to fail completely 

at a specified pressure. The theory is that a large release 

through these devices is preferable to a container failure. If 

these devices have activated, product release will be large 

because of internal pressure. Determine the cause of the 

release before considering any action. 

In all of the above cases, engineered safety devices have 

activated. Preventing their operation will result in further 

container stress. You must find out and correct the cause of 

the release before taking any containment action. 

Inspecting Damaged 

Cargo Tanks 

Damaged cargo tanks must be thoroughly inspected to 

determine the type and extent of damage sustained. These 

inspections can be performed by Technicians who have the 

background training in this area. Personal protective 

equipment must be worn during the inspection. 

Examine all accessible surfaces for the type, location, 

direction, and extent of damage. If you cannot see the 

entire surface of the damaged cargo tank, reinspect it 

during and after surrounding materials have been removed, 

or when the tank is lifted or uprighted. You must be experienced 

enough to determine the possible damage to the tank 

based on its position (i.e., on soft ground or hard/sharp 

surfaces). 

Jacketed cargo tanks are difficult to inspect without removing 

the jackets. Lack of damage to the jacket usually 

indicates that the tank has not been damaged. 

Guidelines 

Damage assessment and mitigation is generally not the 

responsibility of fire department personnel unless specialized 

training has been provided. The following guidelines 



are for background information only. Do not attempt 

these procedures unless you have been thoroughly 

trained. 

To inspect damaged pressure cargo tanks: 

1. Examine all accessible surfaces for cracks, scores, 

gouges, and dents. Pay close attention to these types of 

damage that occur in the longitudinal direction. 

2. Look for cracks on the tank. Relatively large cracks are 

visible to the naked eye. For smaller cracks, the use of 

a dye penetrant may be necessary. Since material often 

seeps through even small cracks, look for signs of 

frosting or clear liquid on the tank surface. 

3. For each dent: 

• Identify dents that have scores or gouges associated 

with them and those that cross a weld. (Dents with 

scores or gouges and/or dents that cross welds are 

the most dangerous.) 

• Examine each point of minimum curvature for 

cracks and, using a dent gauge, measure and record 

the curvature of all dents, no matter how small. 

4. For each score or gouge: 

• Measure the depth of each score or gouge on the 

tank to determine the extent of damage and risk. 

• Identify where each score or gouge crosses a weld. 

• Note when a score or gouge crosses a weld and 

measure the depth of the removed weld metal. 

(When a score or gouge crosses a weld, the damage 

is more critical if it removes the weld’s base metal 

rather than just the weld reinforcement.) 

• When a score or gouge crosses a weld, determine if 

the “heat affected zone” adjacent to the weld has 

been damaged. (If the score or gouge has damaged 

the heat-affected zone, the damage is potentially 

critical.) 

5. Determine the temperature of the tank metal by 

attaching a thermometer to the shell of the tank; or, if a 

tank is equipped with a thermometer, check the thermometer 

well. 



Student Text 

6. Determine the internal pressure of the cargo tank. 

The internal pressure must be determined before the 

tank can be moved or off-loaded in place. The pressure 

can be determined by: 

• Reading the tank’s pressure gauge 

• Reading the internal temperature gauge or 

taking the temperature of the contents and 

referring to vapor pressure/temperature 

graphs specific to the tank contents 

If neither temperature nor pressure can be measured, 

estimate the temperature based on ambient 

temperature. (Remember that the temperature of 

the tank’s contents may lag behind ambient temperatures 

by up to six hours.) Since tank contents 

may stratify into different temperature layers, 

pressure estimated from temperature readings may 

be lower than the actual pressure. Internal pressures 

in empty cargo tanks that contain residual vapors 

may be equal to pressures in loaded cargo tanks. 

Vapor pressure/temperature graphs are available 

from the Compressed Gas Handbook, the shipper, 

or the manufacturer of the material. When pressures 

are shown as absolute pressure, subtract 14.7 

to convert them to gauge pressure. 

Many products are shipped under pressure of an inert gas 

(usually nitrogen) to preserve their purity. The inert gas 

prevents the material from reacting with air or moisture in 

air. Tanks used to ship materials this way are usually 

marked with a warning near the dome cover. Ambient 

temperature and low vapor pressure of the product may 

also indicate that the product is under pressure of an inert 

gas. When a product is shipped under pressure of an inert 

gas, vapor pressure/temperature graphs will not provide 

accurate estimations of internal tank pressure. 

Even if you have conducted a thorough assessment, never 

assume you have identified all the damage. Container 

weakness cannot always be seen. As in other emergencies, 

the most dangerous hazards are those that are not apparent. 



Inspecting and Repairing 

Damaged Cargo Tank Fittings 

Many of the problems associated with cargo tank leaks 

involve valves and fittings. Once you identify the product 

involved, the source of the release, and the personal protective 

equipment needed, you can begin considering control 

measures. Often, releases associated with fittings can be 

stopped by tightening a fitting or re-closing a valve or 

cover. However, because the majority of cargo tanks are 

equipped with internal valves for product discharge, very 

little, if any, field repair can be performed. 

The tables on the following pages describe, in some detail, 

the likely locations of leaks, probable causes for these 

leaks, and basic control or repair methods. 



Student Text 

Corrective Action for Cargo Tank Fittings 

Location of Leak Probable Cause Basic Repair Methods 

MANHOLE COVER 

Liquid or vapor leak around 

manhole cover 

FILL HOLE COVER 

Liquid or vapor leak around 

fill hole cover 

TOP MOUNTED 

SHUTOFF VALVE 

Liquid or vapor valve leaking 

Liquid or vapor valve leaking 

at tank outlet 

BOTTOM OUTLET 

VALVES (internal or 

external) 

Liquid leak at flange between 

tank and valve 

Liquid leak at end of offloading 

pipe (s) 

Loose clamp ring 

Defective gasket 

Not securely closed 


Valve not completely closed 

Valve not seated 

Defective seat or threads on valve 

Loose flange bolts/nuts 


Internal valve not properly seated 

Broken internal valve 

Tighten bolt 

To be handled by a cargo tank 

specialist 

Check for zero pressure, then 

open and re-close (do not if the 

tank is on its side); or 

Tighten wing nuts or apply cover 

clamp 

To be handled by cargo tank 

specialist 

Close valve 

Tighten valve 


specialist 

Tighten valve bolts/nuts 


specialist 

Open and re-close valve 


specialist 



Corrective Action for Cargo Tank Fittings 

Location of Leak Probable Cause Basic Repair Methods 

VAPOR RECOVERY 

VENTS 

Liquid leak from vapor 

recover line 

Top vent not closed 

Tank overloaded 

Open and re-close top vent 

Off-load product* 

SAFETY RELIEF 

DEVICES 

Liquid or vapor leak from 

safety vent 

Ruptured frangible disk (liquid 

indicated possible overload) 

Melted fusible plug (liquid indicates 

possible overload) 

Replace frangible disk; off-load 

product if necessary* 

Replace fusible plug; off-load 

product if necessary* 


safety relief valve -- nonpressure 

tanks 

Defective valve 


Replace valve 

Off-load product* 


safety relief valve -- low and 

high-pressure tanks 

Defective valve 


To be handled by industry 

specialist 

To be handled by industry 

specialist 

*Many leaks can be repaired on loaded, but not overloaded, tanks; off-loading (or transferring) some 

or all of the product should be performed when the situation dictates. 



Student Text 

Handling Damaged 

Cargo Tanks 


The following methods for handling damaged cargo tanks 

are prioritized from least to greatest risk. Again, do not 

attempt these procedures unless you have received special 

training. 

1. Make any necessary repairs and allow the vehicle to 

proceed to its destination for product removal. Repairs 

you might be able to perform include replacing bolts, 

gaskets, or caps. You should not attempt repairs using 

plugs or patches that could be dislodged. 

2. Move the cargo tank a short distance to an off-loading 

facility or other safe area for off-loading (only if the 

tank is not leaking). The hazardous materials team 

should follow the tanker to that location in case of a 

second spill. 

3. Off-load the materials from the damaged cargo tank to 

another cargo tank. This method should be performed 

by cargo tank specialists only. 

4. Drill the cargo tank for product removal (non-pressure 

aluminum cargo tanks only). This method should be 

performed by cargo tank specialists only. 

5. On-site disposal by flaring (compressed gases in pressure 

cargo tanks). This method should be performed by 

cargo tank specialists only. 

Field Product Removal Methods 

Field product removal methods are those techniques used to 

remove the contents from a damaged or overloaded cargo 

tank. All of these product removal methods are considered 

outside the legitimate responsibility of the fire 

department. However, overseeing the planning and 

implementation of these methods is within the realm of 

fire department responsibilities. 



These methods are discussed in this section to provide you 

with enough information to oversee these processes and 

recognize when inappropriate actions are taking place. 

Remember, protecting yourself and the community are your 

primary responsibilities. 

Field product removal methods include: 

• Transferring 

• Venting 

• Flaring 

• Venting and burning 

Transfers 

A transfer involves moving the contents of a damaged or 

overloaded cargo tank into a receiving tank (e.g., another 

cargo tank, intermodal tank, or portable tank). 

Often, cargo tanks involved in a rollover or other serious 

accident cannot withstand being uprighted if the tank is 

full—this is particularly true of aluminum non-pressure 

cargo tanks. The product must be transferred prior to 

uprighting and transporting the cargo tank if: 

• The cargo tank has been damaged to the extent that 

it cannot be safely uprighted or moved to an appropriate 

off-loading facility. 

• The tank itself is sound but, due to frame or 

understructure damage or other mechanical damage, 

it cannot be safely moved; or the damage to piping, 

valves, or fittings is such that it cannot be repaired. 

• Site conditions prevent uprighting the tank (e.g., 

terrain does not permit the use of air bags, cranes, or 

other equipment). 

Safety Precautions When Transferring 

The following safety precautions must be taken when 

performing a transfer: 

• Limit site access to required personnel only 

• Allow only qualified and experienced personnel to 

perform the work 

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment 

• Monitor site with appropriate vapor monitoring 

devices 

• Have foam, dry chemical extinguisher, and 



Student Text 

other suitable systems ready in the event of 

accidental release or sudden flare-up 

• If transferring flammable or combustible 

liquids (or finely divided solids) using an 

open system: 

• Ground and bond the tank 

• Eliminate all ignition sources and prohibit 

smoking in the vicinity 

• Eliminate or shut down electrical equipment that 

is not intrinsically safe 

• Shut off internal combustion engines 

• Use an emergency shutoff system to either 

automatically or manually shut down the operation 

in the event of an unintentional release 

(caused by a hose failure or other malfunction) 

Venting, Flaring, and Venting and Burning 

For highway transportation, these procedures are rarely 

used and are generally limited to pressure cargo tanks, such 

as those transporting liquefied petroleum gas and other 

flammable products. Flaring and venting and burning are 

always last resort options and should only be performed by 

highly trained and experienced personnel, only after all 

other options have been examined and ruled out. Accordingly, 

this discussion of flaring and venting and burning is 

limited. 

Venting 

Venting is the process of releasing flammable and nonflammable 

liquefied compressed gas vapors into the atmosphere 

to reduce internal tank pressure. This release can be 

direct or (in the case of toxic products) indirect through an 

appropriate treatment (scrubber) or vapor recovery system. 

Typically, venting is used for non-flammable gases. 

Flaring 

Flaring is the controlled release and disposal of flammable 

materials by burning from the outlet of a flare pipe. It is 

used to reduce pressure, dispose of the residual vapors in a 

damaged or overloaded tank, or burn off liquid when 

transferring the liquid is impractical. 



Venting and Burning 

Venting and burning is a method of removing liquefied 

flammable compressed gases or flammable liquids from a 

tank by creating openings through the controlled use of 

explosives. Explosive charges are strategically placed on 

the tank—one at the highest point on the tank for venting 

vapor and the second at the lowest point on the tank for 

releasing liquid. The released contents are allowed to flow 

into a pit for evaporation or burn-off. 

Venting and burning is the last resort and is to be performed 

only by experienced personnel. 

Vacuum trucks 

Vacuum trucks are frequently used to remove liquid hazardous 

materials and waste from a response scene. They are 

specifically designed and rated for certain types of hazardous 

materials and can develop vacuum for on-loading or 

pressure for off-loading. Vacuum trucks offer the advantage 

of not having to develop higher pressures in the damaged 

container. They can also be used to vacuum material 

from the ground or other areas. A disadvantage is that they 

must be placed relatively close to the damaged container or 

product. 

Always consider the risk versus the benefit in responding to 

any situation that requires mitigation. You and other responders 

should take every conceivable precaution to 

reduce risk. 

Even though Technicians are trained to enter hazardous 

environments, their main focus should always be concern 

for operational personnel and the fire service in general— 

protection of themselves, the public, property and the 

environment...in that order. Defensive actions should be 

taken first. Containment activities should be done only 

when all other options have been exhausted or have not 

worked. 

Activity 



Student Text 

Special Considerations 

Fire in MC 306/DOT 406 Cargo Tanks 

MC 306/DOT 406 cargo tanks are usually constructed out 

of aluminum and are likely to be carrying fuels. They are 

used in almost every jurisdiction in North America to 

deliver gasoline and fuel oil. Fires involving these cargo 

tanks are frequent so you should prepare for them. 

Chemicals carried in these kinds of tankers often cause 

large fires characterized by heavy smoke and radiant heat. 

Fires traveling a distance from the container, fueled by 

rivers of product, are also a distinct possibility. Because of 

their aluminum construction, MC 306/DOT 406 cargo tanks 

will melt rather than build up internal pressures that could 

cause catastrophic breaching. If the tank does melt, there 

will be massive product released and the remaining container 

(if any) will become a large open-topped vessel. 

Non-Pressure Cargo Tank 

Consider these incidents the same as any large scale flammable 

liquid fire. Rescue of persons trapped by the fire or 

radiant heat should be a priority; however, it may not be 

possible to accomplish without a secure and adequate water 

supply. You will need adequate personnel to handle numerous 

streams. It is often best to use large caliber, unmanned 

deluge sets in areas of high risk. 



These fires can be extinguished with the appropriate fire 

fighting foam (for hydrocarbons, AFFF or protein will 

work) at a specific rate for at least 15 minutes. Formulas 

for calculating flow rates and amounts of foam and water 

are contained in NFPA 11, Technical Standard of Low 

Expansion Foam and Combination Agents. AFFF foam 

will help suppress vapors after the fire is extinguished due 

to its film-forming capability. Whenever possible, provide 

barriers to escaping burning liquid. This will help reduce 

surface area and decrease heat production. 

The availability of adequate water and foam reserves is the 

key factor in your team’s ability to handle or extinguish a 

fire in MC 306/DOT 406 cargo tanks. Incident Commanders 

must carefully weigh their resources against their 

strategic goals. Water and/or foam may only be available to 

conduct rescue and protect exposures. If this is the case, 

the IC should delay extinguishing operations until adequate 

resources are on scene. 



Student Text 




for Tank Cars 

Damage assessment and repair on tank cars (just as on 

cargo tanks) should never be attempted by untrained personnel. 

The information in this section is provided to help 

you understand—not perform—procedures for controlling 

tank car leaks. 

You must receive additional training in this area before you 

attempt to control leaks in tank cars. 

Inspecting and Repairing 

Damaged Fittings 

Most unintentional releases of hazardous materials occur in 

non-accident situations as a result of improperly secured 

valves, bad gaskets, overfilled cars, other unsecured fittings, 

and venting from safety relief devices. Whenever a 

release occurs, you must work with the railroad to determine 

the material involved, the origin and cause of the 

release, and any potential problems. In addition, control 

activities should never be taken without proper training and 

appropriate personal protective equipment. 

Once you identify the product involved, the source of the 

release, and the personal protective equipment needed, you 

can begin considering control measures. Many releases 

associated with fittings can be stopped simply by tightening 

a valve or fitting using hand tools that are readily available. 

The most basic control measures for stopping releases from 

fittings include: 

• If open, close it (clockwise to close) 

• If loose, tighten it (clockwise to tighten) 

• If missing (but available), replace it 

The tables on the following pages describe, in more detail, 

the likely locations of leaks, probable causes for these 

leaks, and basic repair methods. 



Student Text 

Corrective Actions for Tank Car Fittings 

Loading and Unloading Fittings 

Location of Leak Probable Cause Basic Repair Method 

Liquid or Vapor Valve - Ball - or Plug Type 

Liquid or vapor leak from Valve not completely closed Close valve 

threaded orifice in valve 

Plug loose or missing Tighten or replace plug 

Plug or seat worn To be handled by a tank car 

specialist 

Liquid or vapor leak from Loose flange nuts Tighten flange nuts 

seat between valve and 

the manway cover plate Bad gasket To be handled by a tank car 

specialist 

Liquid or vapor leak around Packing retainer loose Tighten packing retainer 

valve stem 

Missing split ring packing To be handled by a tank car 

specialist 

Fill Hole Cover 

Liquid or vapor leak around Loose cover nuts Tighten loose cover nuts 

hole cover 

Fill hole gasket damaged To be handled by a tank car 

or missing 

specialist 

Manway Cover 

Liquid or vapor leak between Loose cover nuts Tighten loose cover nuts 

manway nozzle and manway 

cover Manway gasket damaged To be handled by a tank car 

or missing 

specialist 

Top-Operating Mechanism (Stuffing Box) for Bottom Outlet Valve 

Liquid or vapor leak Loose packing gland nut Tighten packing gland nut 

from cover of valve 

Defective packing material To be handled by a tank car 

specialist 



Bottom Outlet 

Liquid leak from Bottom outlet valve open Close bottom outlet valve 

bottom outlet cap 

Bottom outlet cap/plug loose Tighten bottom outlet 

Liquid Line Flange 

Corrective Actions for Tank Car Fittings (continued) 

Loading and Unloading Fittings 


Bottom outlet cap gasket To be handled by a tank car 

missing or defective specialist 

Liquid leak from flange Loose flange nuts Tighten flange nuts 

Missing or defective gasket To be handled by a tank car 

specialist 



Student Text 


Pressure/Vacuum Fittings 


Safety Relief Valve—External, Internal, or Combination 

Liquid or vapor leak Loose flange nuts Tighten flange nuts 

from joint between base of 

valve and manway cover 

Liquid or vapor leak “O’’ ring or washer installed To be handled by a tank car 

from valve seat incorrectly or damaged from specialist; do not remove the 

normal wear. safety relief valve 

Caution: Spring may be 

broken and is not repairable 

in the field. 

Liquid or vapor leak Valve stem bent or broken To be handled by a tank car 

from valve seat specialist 

Safety Vent 

Overloaded tank Unload; to be handled by a 

tank car specialist 

Liquid or vapor leak Ruptured frangible Replace frangible disk with 

from opening in center (rupture disk). Liquid new disk identical to the 

of safety vent indicates overload or splash ruptured disk 

without overload 

Vacuum Relief Valve 

Liquid or vapor leak “O” ring off seat or valve To be handled by a tank car 

from under deflector stem bent specialist 

cap 

Solidified product To be handled by a tank car 

specialist 




Fittings for Gauging 


Open-Type Gauging Device, Slip Tube With Quick Release or Screw Cover 

Liquid or vapor leak Gauging device control Close gauging device control 

from gauging device control valve not closed; valve valve 

valve orifice plug 

plug is loose or missing 

Liquid or vapor leak Loose flange nuts Tighten flange nut 

from joint between gauging 

device and manway cover plate 

Liquid or vapor leak Loose flange nuts Tighten flange nut 

from around cover at base of 

fitting 

Liquid or vapor leak around Packing gland nut loose Tighten packing gland 

gauge rod packing gland or retainer 

missing 

Packing materials defective To be handled by a tank car 

specialist 

Closed-Type Gauging Device, Magnetic 

Liquid or vapor leak Broken pipe Tighten gauging device 

from base of gauging cover 

Do not remove cover. 


from seal between gauging 

device and manway cover plate 

Closed-Typed Gauging Device, Tape-Type 


from seal between 

gauging device and manway 

cover plate 



Student Text 

Sample Line 

Liquid or vapor leak Sample line valve not closed Close sample line valve 

from sample line orifice 

or from around plug Plug missing or loose Replace and/or tighten plug 

Thermometer Well 

Damaged sample line plug To be handled by a tank car 

specialist 

Liquid or vapor leak Loose cap with damaged Tighten cap; do not remove 

from thermometer well cap thermometer well pipe cap 

Missing or defective “O” ring 

in cap or on nipple with 

damaged thermometer well 

pipe 

Liquid leaking from Damaged thermometer well To be handled by a tank car 

between thermometer well pipe specialist; do not tighten 

nipple and manway cover thermometer well nipple 

Thermometer well Mechanical damage to To be handled by a tank car 

nipple broken off with thermometer well nipple specialist 

no leak 

Heater Coil-Internal 


Miscellaneous Fittings 


Liquid leak from inlet Condensation from material Tighten caps 

or outlet pipes at bottom of 

used for heating contents 

tank 

Washout 

Liquid leaking from around Flange nuts loose Tighten flange nuts 

seal between tank and 

washout plate Defective gasket To be handled by a tank car 

specialist 



Handling Damaged Tank Cars 


Damaged tank cars should be handled as simply and safely 

as circumstances allow. The following list prioritizes 

control methods from least to greatest risk. All of the 

following shall be done by or with a tank car specialist! 

1. Make any necessary repairs and forward to destination. 

2. Move the car a short distance to a fixed loading/ unloading 

facility for unloading (only if the tank is not 

leaking). 

3. Conduct a field transfer—tank car to tank car. 

4. Conduct a field transfer—tank car to cargo tank or 

intermodal tank container. 

5. On-site treatment by flaring, neutralization, or other 

method. 

6. Hot tap the tank car to facilitate transfer, flare, or 

otherwise unload the car. 

7. Vent and burn the contents on-site. 



Student Text 



Decision-Making 

and Mitigation 

Whether you are responding to a transportation or a fixedsite 

incident, you will be better able to identify the materials 

involved and make informed decisions about your 

response if you can recognize basic vehicle and container 

designs. Remember, however, that recognition and identification 

clues enable you to make educated guesses. Even 

when information appears to be concrete it must be viewed 

with caution. Always use clues in conjunction with reference 

materials, shipping or facility documents, and reported 

information before taking action. 

All of the recognition and identification techniques presented 

in this module can be reinforced with reliable information 

if you conduct and prepare an indepth pre-plan. 

Pre-planning takes much of the guesswork out of recognition 

and identification. 

Offensive Operations 

Decision-Making 

You will need to decide whether you have the training and 

resources necessary to undertake offensive operations. 

Answering the following questions will help you make 

these critical decisions. 

• What stresses caused the breach? (e.g., chemical, 

mechanical or thermal); are these stresses likely to 

continue? 

• What is the identity of the product? Based on its 

chemical and physical properties, do you have the 

resources (e.g. overpack drums, foam, non-sparking 

tools, neutralizing chemicals) to mitigate the situation? 

• Assess the defensive actions you have already 

taken. Are these operations sufficient to ensure the 

safety of the public, or is an offensive approach 

necessary? 



Student Text 

• If offensive actions are necessary, what is the risk 

versus the benefit to the entry team? Other responders? 

The public? The environment? 

• What are the hazards if offensive actions are not 

taken? For example, is there likely to be a pressure 

release, or a reaction between incompatible chemicals? 

• Can these hazards be controlled through offensive 

tactics? 

• Can offensive control be done safely? Is the material 

stable, and can it be continuously monitored? 

• Are you reasonably certain that your offensive 

actions will have a positive outcome? For example, 

will you be able to patch a hole before the material 

leaks completely? 

Activity 

Mitigation 

If you decide that: 

• The situation warrents offensive tactics, and 

• Your team has the necessary training and resources, and 

• All operations can be carried out safely, then: 

Proceed with the offensive containment tactics. Such actions 

may include: 

• Uprighting leaking containers 

• Closing and tightening caps and lids 

• Repositioning a container so the level of the hazardous 

material is below the breach 

• Decreasing container pressure by closing/opening a 

valve, or shutting down a pumping system 

• Blanketing with vapor suppression agents, such as foam 

• Neutralizing a chemical by applying another chemical 

• Disposing of the hazardous material in place 

• Using clamps or pneumatic plugs to stop dome cover 

leaks 

• Plugging or patching small holes 

• Applying inflatable bandages, straps, absorbents, and/or 

wedges to larger leaks such as gouges and splits 



Safety 

While you are in the process of mitigating an incident, 

whether it is through defensive or offensive actions, keep 

the following points in mind: 

• Larger containers may require climbing, so make sure 

you have sufficient harnesses/ladders/high angle equipment 

to do this safely. 

• Be aware of slip and fall hazards, particularly if large 

amounts of material have spilled. 

• Make sure the container is stablized before you attempt 

to control a leak; changing container orientation is 

usually not an option with larger containers. 

• Be aware of routine hazards, such as traffic. 

• Do not attempt to move stressed containers, especially 

if they are heavily loaded. 

Remember the order of priority: 

• Safety of the responder 

• Safety of the public 

• Preservation of the environment 

• Prevention of property loss 



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Application Exercise 



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Module 9 

Application Exercise 



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Exercise Assessment Sheet 

Observe the student performing this activity and complete the checklist below. 

Vapor Suppression/Neutralization Station Yes No 

Did team member take colorimetric tube readings correctly? 

Did team member apply sufficient foam blanket? 

Did team member read pH paper correctly? 

Did team member add soda ash properly? 

Did entry team use absorbents/adsorbents properly? 

Did entry team dispose of waste properly? 

General problems/issues at Vapor Suppression/Neutralization Station: 

______________________________________________________________________________ 

_______________________________________________________________________________ 

Diking Station Yes No 

In general, did entry team assess situation correctly? 

Did entry team use the appropriate tools? 

Did entry team consider vulnerable water sources? 

Did entry team build dike of sufficient strength and height? 

Did diking contain the leak? 

General problems/issues at Diking Station: 



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Plugging/Patching and Overpacking Station Yes No 

In general, did entry team assess situation correctly? 


Did entry team consider vulnerable exposures? 

Did entry team correctly estimate size of release/contaminated area? 

Did entry team adequately plug or patch the drum? 

Did entry team use appropriate overpack technique? 

Did these procedures contain the leak? 

General problems/issues at Plugging/Patching and Overpacking Station: 

______________________________________________________________________________ 

______________________________________________________________________________ 

Dome Clamp Station Yes No 

Did entry team follow safety precautions? 

Did entry team use the appropriate tools to apply dome clamp? 

Did entry team apply dome clamp correctly? 

Would dome clamp application contain the leak under actual conditions? 

General problems/issues at Dome Clamp Station: 



Chlorine “A” Kit Station Yes No 



Did entry team identify the parts of the 150 lb. cylinder: 

Protective hood 

Valve 

Neck ring 

Foot ring 

Fuse plug 

Did entry team properly apply the “A” kit to control: 

Loose valve 

Blown out valve 

Fuse plug leak 

Valve leak 

Cylinder wall leak 

General problems/issues at Chlorine “A” Kit Station: 

______________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Chlorine “B” Kit Station Yes No 



Did entry team identify the parts of the 150 lb. cylinder: 

Protective hood 

Valve 

Neck ring 

Foot ring 

Fuse plug 

OR, did entry team identify the parts of the ton container: 

Fuse plug 

Vapor valve 

Liquid valve 

Eduction pipe 



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On the 150 lb. cylinder, did entry team properly apply the “B” kit to control: 

Loose valve 



Valve leak 


On the ton container, did entry team properly apply the “B” kit to control: 

Loose valve 

Defective valve packing 


Blown out fuse plug 


Valve leak 


General problems/issues at Chlorine “B” Kit Station: 

Yes 

No 

______________________________________________________________________________ 

______________________________________________________________________________ 



Action Statement 



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Action Statement 

You have just completed the ninth module of the Hazardous Materials Technician course. The 

topics included: 

• The difference between confinement and containment 

• General confinement techniques 

• General containment techniques 

• Control techniques for non-bulk containers 

• Control techniques for cargo tanks 

• Control techniques for tank cars 

Knowing how you respond to emergencies in your first due areas, would you change your actions 

or habits based on the information covered in this module? Listed below are some suggested 

actions. Some you may already do, and others may not fit your work environment. If there are 

actions you have not done in the past, do you think you will begin doing them as a result of this 

training? 

As a result of this training I will: 

1. Use more caution performing routine control techniques 

2. Practice control techniques while using chemical protective clothing 

3. Learn more about fittings 

4. Take additional training to become specialized in cargo tank repair 

5. Take additional training to become specialized in tank car repair 

6. (Create my own action statement) 



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Appendix A 

Activities 



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Control Actions Activity 1 

Based on the brief descriptions of each of the following actual incidents: 

1. Would you take offensive actions? 

2. If so, how would you have controlled the situation? 

Case Study 1 

At a hazardous waste cleanup site in Michigan, the EPA had been injecting lime beneath the 

surface of a waste oil lagoon in an attempt to convert liquid wastes into solids. The injection was 

stopped when a large white cloud was seen coming off the lagoon. Shortly thereafter, the lagoon 

caught on fire, apparently the result of an exothermic reaction. When the fire department responded, 

they were advised that the lagoon contained waste oils, benzene, toluene, and xylene, 

but no PCBs. 

Case Study 2 

A truck driver in New York was hauling a load of assorted chemicals when he stopped along an 

expressway to check his load. As he pulled over, several explosions occurred, blowing a hole in 

the top of the trailer and leaking chemical on the ground. The driver unhooked and pulled the 

tractor away from the trailer and called for assistance. When the fire department and hazardous 

materials team arrived, they were informed that three 55-gallon drums containing a mixture of 

zirconium oxynitrate and nitric acid had reacted and exploded. 

Case Study 3 

Employees at a manufacturing facility began to complain of a strong odor, as well as eye and 

skin irritation, when they entered an area of the plant. The odor was traced to an exterior area 

where several ammonia cylinders were stored. As the fumes spread over a wider area, employees 

called the fire department. 

Case Study 4 

In Alabama, a pesticide plant was leveled by an explosion that released toxic fumes. Smaller 

explosions continued over the next few hours. Fire fighters arrived and evacuated a 10-mile 

radius around the pesticide plant. 



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Case Study 5 

A tractor-trailer in New York collided with a car and spilled 80 to 90 gallons of diesel fuel into a 

storm drain. The storm drain fed into a nearby creek, which eventually discharged into a river. 

Fire fighters and several well-equipped hazardous materials teams responded. 

Case Study 6 

In Texas, a train carrying a variety of hazardous materials was involved in an accident. Nine tank 

cars derailed and spilled 5,000 gallons of styrene monomer. Some of this product spilled into a 

nearby creek. Fire fighters and civil defense personnel responded to the scene. 



Manhattan HazMat Incident 

By James J. Fay 

Manhattan Case Study Activity 2 

NYPD First Precinct Detectives and FDNY Fire Marshals initiated an investigation into how 800 

pounds of highly explosive, highly toxic material were delivered to the doorstep of a lower 

Manhattan retail establishment. 

On Sunday, November 26, at about 1515 EST, an initial response of NYPD Emergency Service 

Units from ESU #1 and FDNY’s First Battalion, responded to 365 Canal Street, at West Broadway, 

within the boundaries of NYC’s Soho District. The establishment, “American Liquidators” 

is a common type of retail store for the area, dealing in large quantities of electrical parts, army 

surplus, and other items, piled on shelves and in bins throughout the store. The store personnel 

reported to arriving units that the four 33-gallon drums were delivered three days prior on Thursday, 

November 23, and left inside near the front door of the store. They also told police that they 

did not order the product from any vendor, but were not initially concerned because of the high 

volume of deliveries to the store. 

Emergency personnel established from external markings on the drums that the containers held 

what was best described as “aluminum powder.” With that information, NYC*EMS transmitted 

a ‘10-48’ haz-mat incident code, establishing a command post and the response of numerous 

BLS and Special Operations Division Units. Additional NYPD Emergency Service Units responded, 

as well as the Police Bomb Squad and the FDNY Haz-Mat Company. 

The normally gridlocked traffic in the area was made worse by the emergency equipment, necessitating 

response patterns being transmitted from the scene to incoming units. 

The FD established its command post in its Haz-Mat unit, researching the source of the product 

back to its manufacturer via cell phone. The manufacturer acknowledged it was his product, but 

had no information or knowledge of a delivery to that store. Haz-Mat also determined that this 

aluminum powder was highly toxic to the skin and reacted with an explosion when it came in 

contact with water or other chemicals. All non-emergency personnel were instructed to remain 

150 feet from the product. 

A NYC Department of Environmental Protection chemist arrived on the scene and requested that 

samples be taken from each drum. During this procedure, FDNY Haz-Mat fire fighters needed 

to change their half-hour SCBA bottles at least once while opening the tight drums and taking 

samples. 

A Fire Department unit equipped with “over-pack” drums responded to remove the material to a 

private vendor for proper disposal. 



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Approximately four hours after the first response, the scene was secured. Police and Marshals 

would continue the investigation to find out if it was a simple mistake that put the dangerous 

cargo there or a malicious act. 

© Emergency Response & Research Institute, 1995, All Rights Reserved 

Questions 

1. Refer to your NIOSH Pocket Guide and list additional hazards of aluminum powder. 

2. If you had a leaking container of aluminum powder, how would you patch/plug and overpack 

it using the supplies in your own department? 

3. What precautions should you take when patching/plugging and overpacking? 

4. In this incident, fire fighters took samples from the drum. Are you equipped and trained to 

take samples? If so, describe how this procedure is done. 



Cargo Tank Leak Activity 3 

A semiconductor manufacturer (the shipper) hired a cargo tank from a chemical waste management 

company (the carrier) to transport a waste acid mixture to a disposal site some distance 

away. Because the carrier and shipper had done business in the past, the carrier’s dispatcher 

assigned the same type of cargo tank that had been previously used for that shipper. 

When the driver arrived at the shipper’s location, mixed acid waste from two storage locations 

was loaded into the cargo tank. The shipping papers described the cargo as “waste, acid liquid 

n.o.s.” (UN 1760). While in transit, the driver had mechanical difficulties and was directed to go 

to the nearest truck dealer for repairs. The driver parked the cargo tank in the dealer’s back lot 

and detached it from the tractor. Shortly thereafter, employees at the dealership noticed orange 

vapors escaping from the tank. However, no one notified the fire department until two hours 

later. 

When the fire department finally arrived, fire fighters evacuated the area and attempted to identify 

the components of the mixed acid waste. The shipper and the carrier provided conflicting 

information as to the specific chemicals in the mixture. Meanwhile, vapors continued to escape 

from the tank, and the tank shell became very hot. Although the vapors and the tank temperature 

were reduced with a water spray, the acid mixture eventually eroded the shell and began to drain. 

Questions 

1. What can you do when you have conflicting information about a chemical, particularly 

chemical mixtures? 

2. What control actions would you take? 

3. How could the situation have been prevented? 



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Pressure Cargo Tank Activity 4 

In small groups, read the incident information below and review the Westville map. Select one 

person to record the answers on the worksheet and report them to the class. 

Environmental Factors 

Incident Facts—Westville, USA 

Weather Report: Clear. Temperature 85°F., winds from the south, 6-8 miles per hour 

Proximity of the incident site to the nearest building: 200 feet 

Zoning: Heavy industrial/commercial 

Potential exposure area: 1400 hours, Wednesday 

Other considerations: Storm drain openings nearby 

Container 

Type: MC331 Transport Truck with 10,000 gallon capacity 

Condition of container: Internal liquid fill valve damaged and flowing 10 GPM of liquid propane 

Features of container: Single shell uninsulated pressure vessel 

Type of Flammable Gas Involved 

Propane (LPG) 

Properties: Heavier than air (VD = 1.52) 

Odorized gas 

Liquid outside container will drop to -44°F 

LPG is nontoxic but is an asphyxiant 

DOT Information: ID# 1075 



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Worksheet 

1. Discuss the incident and assess the threat that this flammable gas poses. 

______________________________________________________________________________ 

______________________________________________________________________________ 

______________________________________________________________________________ 

2. Recommend spill control strategies. 

______________________________________________________________________________ 

______________________________________________________________________________ 

______________________________________________________________________________ 

3. On the Westville map, indicate where you would establish the following areas: 

• Hot Zone 

• Warm Zone 

• Cold Zone 

• Decontamination Area 

• Incident Command 



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Maysville Case Study Activity 5 

The Associated Press January 1988 

A fire swept through a fertilizer plant Sunday forcing thousands of people on both sides of the 

Ohio River to evacuate their homes as tons of potentially explosive chemicals burned. 

The Cargill Co. plant contained stockpiles of herbicides and pesticides and 420 tons of ammonium 

nitrate-a fertilizer used in making the bomb that destroyed the federal building in Oklahoma 

City. Authorities said there was a risk of explosion at the plant as the ammonium nitrate 

burned. 

“It’s a volatile substance in the state it’s in now with fire,” said Roy Raby, an assistant State Fire 

Marshal. The fire broke out about 2:30 a.m. and emergency crews went door-to-door waking 

people within a square-mile of the plant advising them to take shelter at area schools. About 

2,500 people left their homes in Maysville and across the river in Brown and Adams counties in 

southern Ohio. 

Battling Blaze Futile 

Authorities were letting the fire burn itself out, and a huge column of light gray smoke billowed 

from the plant. The fire was expected to destroy the plant by afternoon. Light wind drifted the 

smoke northward into Ohio. Loretta Wills, who lives in an apartment complex near the plant, 

said she had to leave so quickly she put her slacks on backwards, and a neighbor left without her 

dentures. “We just had to grab and go,” she said. 

The fire shut down a nearby CSX rail line and closed the Ohio River between Maysville and 

Manchester, Ohio, about 10 miles upriver. There was no production at the plant when the fire 

broke out. Officials thought propane cylinders were the source. 

A volunteer chief was hit by shrapnel after one explosion, said Steve Zweigart, local deputy 

coordinator for the state Division of Disaster and Emergency Services. The shrapnel did not 

penetrate the skin and the fire fighter was treated at a local hospital and released, he said. 

Cause Investigated 

Fire investigators were on the scene trying to determine a cause of the fire. Maysville City 

Manager Dennis Redmond said the fire engulfed a building that stored several different fertilizers 

and chemicals, including the ammonium nitrate. 

“By allowing the fire to burn, the pesticides and herbicides have been able to completely combust, 

which pretty much gets rid of the toxic effect of those chemicals,” Zweigart said. 

“The ammonium nitrate stockpiles posed the chief threat,” Zweigart said. 

But Raby, the assistant State Fire Marshal, said, “This is not an Oklahoma City situation.” 

An explosive mix of ammonium nitrate fertilizer and fuel oil was detonated outside the federal 

building in Oklahoma City in April 19,1995. The blast killed 168 people. Unlike Oklahoma 



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City, there was no accelerant, such as the fuel oil mixed with the ammonium nitrate at the 

Maysville plant, authorities said. Another difference was the ammonium nitrate was not contained 

but was burning freely at the plant, they said. 

The State Fire Marshal’s office feared that applying water or foam to the blaze would create huge 

vapor clouds that would spread to more populated areas, Redmond said. Authorities also worried 

about potential runoff of chemicals into the Ohio River if they fought the fire, he said. The plant 

is about 600 yards from the river. 

“The reality is it’s a matter of picking the lesser of two evils,” Redmond said. “The burning of 

these chemicals in the atmosphere does have a negative effect on the environment. But that 

effect is less than the vapor clouds.” 

Raby said anther reason for letting the fire burn was the more intense the heat, the higher the 

smoke would drift into the atmosphere. 

Copyright 1997, The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, 

or redistributed. 

Questions 

1. This case study illustrates that sometimes the best action is no action at all. Would control 

actions have been possible at any point in this incident? If so, when? What actions would 

you have taken? 

2. At what point do you determine that control actions are not possible? 

3. Discuss other potential situations at facilities in your area in which no action would 

be the best action. 



Appendix B 

Miscellaneous 

Mitigation Information 



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Analyze the Problem 

Response Actions 

• Determine the presence of hazardous materials 

1. Review dispatch information 

2. Note the occupancy or location 

3. Look for container shapes and sizes 

4. Look for placards, labels or markings 

5. Review shipping papers 

• Initiate command and control activities 

1. Implement an incident command system 

2. Stage at a safe distance 

3. Control access and shelter in place/evacuate 

• Survey the incident 

1. Determine the type of container 

2. Identify container markings 

3. Determine the amount of hazardous material in the containers 

4. List the name of each hazardous material involved 

5. Identify which materials are released, their form, and the point of release 

6. Sketch the position and orientation of each container involved 

• Collect information on each material’s hazards, physical and chemical characteristics, and 

response recommendations 

1. Obtain and record data on each material’s chemical, physical, and health hazards 

2. Obtain and record overall potential hazards 

3. Determine compatibility if multiple chemicals are involved 

4. Determine decontamination requirements 

5. Consult data resources 

• Evaluate the extent of damage to the container 

1. Determine the construction material of the container 

2. Identify the type and location of closures 

3. Determine the type, location, and extent of damage 

• Predict the likely behavior of the container without intervention 

1. Identify the type of stress or potential stress 

2. Predict the way the container is likely to breach 

3. Predict the way the contents are likely to be released 

4. Predict the dispersion pattern 

5. Predict the likely exposures and length of contact 

6. Identify the hazards that will cause harm 

7. Predict the most likely behavior of the release 



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• Estimate the potential outcomes within the release area 

1. Predict the extent of physical, chemical, and health hazards under current conditions 

2. Estimate the potential outcomes by type of harm within the affected area 



Reproduced from Introduction to Hazardous Material Incident Response, developed by 

Union Pacific Railroad Company and the United States Environmental Protection Agency 

Region VII, revised February 1991) 



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Hazardous Materials Data Sheet 

Name of Hazardous Material _________________________________________________ 

(Proper Shipping Name) 

Hazard Class ____________ (1-9) UN/NA ___ ___ ___ ___ Description _____________ 

__________________________________________________________________________ 

Specific Properties -- Physical, Chemical, Health: NFPA 704 

Boiling Point_______F Flash Point_____F 

Ignition Temp______F 

Flammable Limits LEL_________% to UEL_________% pH____(1-14) 

PEL____ppm/mg/m3 TLV/Ceiling____ppm/mg/m3 IDLH____ppm/mg/m3 STEL____ppm/mg/m3 

Physical State Vapor Density Specific Gravity 

____Solid ____Heavier than Air (>1) ____Floats on Water 

____Liquid ____Lighter than Air (


Possible Extinguishing/Neutralizing Agents or Materials: 

____Water _____AFFF ____AFFF/ATC ______Dry Powder (Class D) _____Halon 

____Dry Chemical (Acidic (ABC) or Alkaline) 

____Vapor Suppression 

Neutralizing Agents: ____Acid ____Alkaline _____Solvents 

Absorbent/Adsorption Materials: ____Booms _____Pillows ____Rolls ____Sheets 

_____Mats ____Granules ____Particulates _____Rags (cotton) 

DECONTAMINATION REQUIREMENTS: 

Decon Solution 

Decon Chemicals 

____A. 5% Sodium Carbonate and 5% Trisodium Phosphate 

____B. 

10% Calcium Hypochlorite 

____C. 5% Trisodium Phosphate 

____D. 

____E. 

____F. 

____G. 

Hydrochloric Acid 

Detergent 

Dry 

Water 

DATA RESOURCE: 

____CSIS 

____MSDS 

____SUI 

____Label 

____NIOSH Pocket Guide 

____ACGIH -- TLV’s 

____SAX 

____Local Emergency Response Plan 

____D.O.T. Emergency Response Guidebooks 

____Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials 

____in Surface Transportation 

____Emergency Action Guidelines 

____CHRIS 

____Rapid Guide to chemical Hazards in the Workplace 

____CHEMTREC 1-800-424-9300 

____NATIONAL RESPONSE 

Center 1-800-424-8802 

____Manufacturer 

____NFPA Fire Protection Guide on Hazardous Materials 

____Fire Dept./Local Emergency Planning Commission 

____Technical Assistant by__________________________________________________________________________________ 

________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 



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Plan the Response 

• Determine response options that could favorably change the outcomes 

1. Identify the stage of release (stress, breach, release, engulf, contact or harm) 

2. Determine response objectives and strategies 

3. Determine tactics 

• Identify appropriate personal protective equipment for the response options 

1. Verify the chemical 

2. Predict the types of exposures with each response option 

3. Determine the level of protective equipment required 

4. Identify chemically compatible PPE materials 

5. Determine if available PPE is sufficient 

• Identify a decontamination plan 

1. Identify the people and equipment that must be decontaminated 

2. Determine the likely amount of contamination 

3. Research the appropriate decontamination materials 

• Select the best response option 

1. Identify the resources needed 

2. Determine the availability of resources 

3. Determine how to obtain necessary resources 

• Implement the response 








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Appendix C 

Osceola, FL Fungicide Incident 



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Osceola, FL Fungicide Incident 

The incident began on March 23 at 0300. A pickup truck crossed the centerline of State Road 

192 about 40 miles east of Walt Disney World in rural Florida. The pickup ran head-on into a 

westbound tractor-trailer truck. The accident resulted in a fire that destroyed both trucks and 

killed the driver of the pickup. The tractor-trailer was not a typical box trailer, but an intermodal 

box placed on the frame of a trailer. This is common in an area where ships import goods from 

European and South American countries. This intermodal box was made of heavy gauge steel. 

They are usually air and watertight. 

When the Holopaw Fire Department unit arrived from approximately 2.5 miles away, the trucks 

were heavily involved in fire, with flames impinging onto the intermodal trailer. The next unit 

was 15 miles away responding from a neighboring community in Osceola County. Holopaw Fire 

Department is a small, one station, volunteer department that is part of Osceola County Fire 

Department. (Osceola County FD is a mixed paid/volunteer department.) The first fire apparatus 

staged about 15 feet from the burning trucks and used the on-board tank to extinguish the fire. 

After extinguishing the burning trucks, the trailer was opened to check for extension. A small 

amount of smoke was noted toward the top of the trailer, so the response was upgraded to include 

additional fire suppression units and Orange County’s Squad 1 (Orange County’s Haz Mat 

Unit). 

Referencing the chemical was immediately difficult because the shipping papers burned during 

the initial truck fire. Furthermore, the trailer was placarded with Class 9, Miscellaneous placards, 

displaying the DOT #1609, which did not appear in the NAERG. Within a short time, these 

stick-on style plastic placards melted from the trailer and were no longer readable. However, the 

tractor-trailer driver suffered only minor injuries during the crash, and was able to give the 

responders the name of the shipper, who was eventually contacted by phone. 

The shipper provided the name Diethane, which was later found to be an incorrect spelling. 

Diethane could not be found in the reference sources, so that even after this initial contact, the 

on-scene personnel did not have information to guide them during the incident. It was not until 

the MSDS was faxed to their headquarters station and transported to the scene that good information 

was at hand. The MSDS revealed the name Dithane DF Fungicide. The truck contained 772 

bags of dry chemical on pallets, or 38,000 pounds of dithane. The chemical dithane is produced 

in France and entered Florida at Port Everglades. Rohm Haas, the company importing the 

chemical, manufactures the precursor chemicals for this compound, then brings the finished 

product back to the U.S. for distribution. Because of the recent flooding in the state, the only 

west-to-east road open across the state was SR 192. This was an unusual route for this material 

to take, and an unfamiliar road to the driver. 

By the time the data sheet arrived, the units on the scene had attempted extinguishment with 

water. The water appeared to initially work, but each application was followed by freeburning 

fire from the rear of the trailer. It was also noted that the drops of concentrated runoff created a 

bubbling effect when dropped on the roadway. Later, AFFF foam was used with the same results. 



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The Rohm Haas hazmat team responded to the scene to assist Osceola County with the extinguishment 

and cleanup of the chemical. Once on the scene, the Rohm Haas team fired the 

cleanup company initially under contract with them and received permission to hire a company 

with the proper capabilities to deal with a spill of this magnitude. This was a day-long process. 

By this time, the fire had burned for three days with no end in sight and SR 192 remained closed. 

The next plan for extinguishment included dumping two 450-pound cylinders of carbon dioxide 

into the box. This was done on the fourth night. Although the intensity of the smoke decreased, 

it was obvious that the fire continued to burn. The final plan was to flow water nonstop into the 

trailer until the fire went out. After thousands of gallons, the fire was finally extinguished. 

Runoff gathered in the roadside canal and marsh area. 

The trailer was eventually towed to a yard in Tampa, where the remaining material was offloaded 

and disposed of. The contaminated soil was, for the most part, excavated and disposed of. 

(It was reported that at least 29 tractor-trailer dirt haulers were used.) Even now, several months 

after the incident, the vegetation in the area is dead or dying, with the accident site plainly visible 

from the road. 

The fire burned for a total of five days, and SR 192 remained closed for six days. The long-term 

effects from possible exposure to the smoke have not been determined. Reference materials 

indicate that combustion of this material gives off toxic levels of hydrogen sulfide, carbon disulfide, 

sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and carbon oxides. 





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Appendix D 

Slide Script 

(for Instructors) 



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Module 9: Control Techniques - International Association of Fire ...

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