On the agenda: meeting — data center (Jan 21)

LYON COUNTY LOCAL EMERGENCY PLANNING COMMITTEE
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2026
9:00 AM
LYON COUNTY ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLEX
27 S. MAIN STREET, YERINGTON, NV 89447
Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83676104571?pwd=K0QzNHI1SlRkb09HQk1WaUlDMUEyZz09
Meeting ID: 836 7610 4571 / Passcode: 273408
One tap mobile: 1-669-900-6833
1. Roll Call
2. Public Participation (no action will be taken on any item until it is properly agendized) - It is anticipated
that public participation will be held at this time, though it may be returned to at any time during the agenda.
Citizens wishing to speak during public participation are asked to state their name for the record and will be
limited to 3 minutes. The Board will conduct public comment after discussion of each agenda action item, but
before the Board takes any action.
3. For Possible Action: Review and adoption of agenda
4. REGULAR AGENDA - (ACTION WILL BE TAKEN ON ALL ITEMS UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED)
4.a

For Possible Action: Approve the October 15, 2025 meeting minutes.

LEPC DRAFT Minutes 10.15.2025
4.b

For Presentation Only: A presentation by American Battery Technology Company on the regional
transportation and recycling of lithium batteries. (Dan Lieber, American Battery Technology Company)

4.c

For Possible Action: Approve the 2026 LEPC Meeting Schedule.

2026 Lyon County LEPC Meeting Schedule
4.d

For Possible Action: Review and approve annual Lyon County Hazardous Materials Emergency
Response Plan for submittal to the State Emergency Response Commission.

2026 Lyon County Hazardous Materials Response Plan
2026 Equipment List
Facility List 2026
2026 Membership Form
EPCRA Public Notice Information
2026 Level of Response Form
2026 NRT Checklist

1

4.e

For Possible Action: Discussion and approval of the 2026 LEPC Grant Proposal Process.

FY27 LEPC Grants Overview
FY27 Grant Proposal Request Form
5. Public Participation (no action will be taken on any item until it is properly agendized) - It is anticipated
that public participation will be held at this time, though it may be returned to at any time during the agenda.
Citizens wishing to speak during public participation are asked to state their name for the record and will be
limited to 3 minutes. The Board will conduct public comment after discussion of each agenda action item, but
before the Board takes any action.
6. Adjourn

Pursuant to NRS 241.020, the agenda has been posted at the following locations: Lyon County
Administrative Complex (27 S. Main Street, Yerington, NV), the Lyon County Website: https://www.lyoncounty.org, and the State Website: https://notice.nv.gov. Supporting documentation for the items on the
agenda is available to members of the public at the County Manager’s Office (27 S. Main Street, Yerington,
NV), by phone (775)463-6531, or by email requests to [email protected].
Lyon County recognizes the needs and civil rights of all persons regardless of age, race, color, religion, sex,
handicap, family status, or national origin. In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department
of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its agencies, offices, and employees,
and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based
on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation,
disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program,
political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted
or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by
program or incident.
Persons with disabilities who require alternate means of communication for program information (e.g.,
Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible agency or
USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and T) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay
Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than
English.
To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form,
AD-3027, found on-line at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html and at any USDA office or
write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To
request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:
(1) Mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400
Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410; Fax: (202) 690-7442; or Email:
[email protected]
T.D.D. services available through 463-2301 or 463-6620 or 911 (emergency services) notice to persons with
disabilities: members of the public who are disabled and require special assistance or accommodations at the
meeting are requested to notify the Commissioners'/Manager's office in writing at 27 S. Main Street,
Yerington, NV 89447, or by calling (775) 463-6531 at least 24 hours in advance.
Lyon County is an equal opportunity provider.

Agenda and Backup Material is
Available at www.lyon-county.org

2

Lyon County Local Emergency Planning Committee Agenda Summary
Meeting Date: January 21, 2026

Agenda Item Number:
4.a
Subject:
For Possible Action: Approve the October 15, 2025 meeting minutes.
Summary:
Financial Department Comments:
Approved As To Legal Form:
County Manager Comments:
Recommendation:
ATTACHMENTS
• LEPC DRAFT Minutes 10.15.2025

3

LYON COUNTY LOCAL EMERGENCY PLANNING COMMITTEE MINUTES
27 S. MAIN STREET, YERINGTON, NEVADA 89447

OCTOBER 15, 2025

1. Roll Call at 9:00 A.M.
Members Present: Gavin Henderson – Community Development Director, Lacey Parrot MVFPD, Taylor Allison - Emergency Manager, Dave Hockaday – Commissioner, Andrew
Haskin – County Manager, and Commander Ryan Powell – Lyon County Sheriff’s Office, Lt.
Bret Willey – Dispatch Supervisor Lyon County Sheriff’s Office, Matt Nightingale – Fire
Chief Smith Valley Fire Protection District
Members Present via Zoom: Leah Wilkinson, Lisa Nash – Community Development Senior
Planner, Jessica Garcia – Nevada Appeal, Jessica Halterman – Walker River Irrigation District,
Pamela Krause – Yerington Community Health Nurse, Carrie Rioux – Carson City Health and
Human Services, Tim McHargue – Central Lyon County Fire Chief
Others in Attendance: Hal O’Brien, Rodney Wright, Jim Rich, Sandy Cassinelli, Odin
Townsend, and Mark Berch
2. Public Participation
Taylor Allison asked for public comment and there was none.
3. For Possible Action: Review and adoption of agenda
Taylor Allison asked for public comment and there was none.
Lacey Parrot made a motion to review and adopt the agenda, Ryan Powell seconded and the
motion passed unanimously.
4. REGULAR AGENDA
4.a. For Possible Action: Approve the July 16, 2025 Minutes.
Taylor Allison asked for public comment and there was none.
Gavin Henderson made a motion to approve the July 16, 2025 minutes, Dave Hockaday
seconded and the motion passed unanimously.
4.b For Presentation and Discussion Only: An update from the Nevada Office of
Emergency Management on the transport and disposal of lithium batteries in Nevada.
(Rodney Wright, Nevada Watch Duty Officer)
Rodney Wright from the Nevada Office of Emergency Management discussed transportation
of lithium batteries through Lyon County. The batteries have been coming from a facility called
the Gateway Facility. They had an event in early April of this year with thermal runaway with
the batteries, the facility caught fire and was decommissioned. The unaffected batteries were
transported to the Tahoe Reno Industrial Complex to be decommissioned. There are currently
1

4

no shipments scheduled to come through Lyon County. He discussed the route they would use
as well as an alternate route.
Dave Hockaday had questions around hazardous situations that could happen with data centers
to the north. Rodney suggested reaching out to American Battery Technology.
Leah Wilkinson asked how equipped the fire department is in dealing with thermal battery
fires. Ryan McIntosh responded that they are working with other counties to figure out the best
suppression methods. Sometimes the best action is no action, or doing evacuations to get
people to safety. There is a foam they stock that gives them a competitive advantage to suppress
these types of fires.
Taylor Allison discussed the battery transportation trucks not using the counties cut off roads
such as Miller, Aiazzi, and Ramsey Weeks.
4.c For Possible Action: Review and approval of the Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan
Annual Progress Report for 2025.
Ryan McIntosh requested to update the progress report to reflect an update to the Rolling A
fuels reduction project. Central Lyon Fire secured the grant funding from Nevada Fire Chiefs
Association and work on the project has begun.
Ryan Powell made a motion to approve the Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan Annual Progress
Report for 2025 with the proposed changes, Lt. Bret Willey seconded and the motion passed
unanimously.
4.d For Discussion Only: Review of SERC Compliance for 2026. (Please turn in your
documents to the Lyon County Emergency Manager no later than November 21nd,
2025).
• Updated full hazmat Response plan to include: the Training Schedules and Exercise
Schedules for the year that have been approved, Equipment List for county
• Exercise/live event of Hazardous Material incident with exercise Reporting form filled
out signed and after action report included
• Current version of Level of Response filled out
• Current LEPC Membership list with contact information
There will be a follow up email requesting documents that are necessary to get into compliance
for SERC. These are required to meet the criteria to be eligible for the next grant cycle.
Due to the shutdown of the state earlier this year, SERC lost all of the historic compliance
documentation so Taylor is working on getting them the last couple of years of compliance
documentation so they are on record.
Taylor Allison asked for public comment and there was none.
5. Public Participation
Taylor Allison asked for public comment and there was none.
The Agenda did not have any reports template so Taylor asked for reports to be given during
public participation for it to be on record.
2

5

Cari Rioux discussed flu vaccinations for the Quad Counties and Lyon County. 436 individuals
in Lyon County received their flu vaccination.
Hal O’ Brien gave report on organizational changes in the Nevada Office of Emergency
Management. OEM is continuing to process quarterly reports and prepare to address the holds
placed on the Emergency Management Performance Grant, Homeland Security Grant
Program, and Nonprofit Security Grant Program. They are planning to move forward with
grants as soon as the Federal Government reopens. He also discussed current employment
openings available.
Taylor Allison gave report on working with other counties on incident management software
for Emergency Management and Public Health. On November 13 th in Dayton at the Old
Community Center there will be a flood preparedness workshop. LEPC is working with SERC
to deliver Hazmat IQ and Battery IQ trainings with the fire districts.
6. Adjourn
The meeting was adjourned at 9:35

3

6

Lyon County Local Emergency Planning Committee Agenda Summary
Meeting Date: January 21, 2026

Agenda Item Number:
4.b
Subject:
For Presentation Only: A presentation by American Battery Technology Company on the regional
transportation and recycling of lithium batteries. (Dan Lieber, American Battery Technology Company)
Summary:
Financial Department Comments:
Approved As To Legal Form:
County Manager Comments:
Recommendation:

7

Lyon County Local Emergency Planning Committee Agenda Summary
Meeting Date: January 21, 2026

Agenda Item Number:
4.c
Subject:
For Possible Action: Approve the 2026 LEPC Meeting Schedule.
Summary:
Financial Department Comments:
Approved As To Legal Form:
County Manager Comments:
Recommendation:
ATTACHMENTS
• 2026 Lyon County LEPC Meeting Schedule

8

BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
LYON COUNTY NEVADA
27 South Main Street
Yerington, Nevada 89447
Phone: (775)463-6531 Fax: (775)463-6533

John Cassinelli, District 1
Scott Keller, District 2
Tammy Hendrix, District 3
Robert Jacobson, District 4
Dave Hockaday, District 5
Andrew Haskin
County Manager

Lyon County Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC)
Meeting Schedule for 2026 @ 9:00 a.m.
o January 21st - SERC Compliance Approval Meeting
March 18th - Grant Proposal Review and Selection Meeting
o July 15th - Regular Meeting
October 21st - Review SERC Compliance for 2026 & Annual Review of the Hazard Mitigation
Actions as per the MJHMP 2025
o

o

9

Lyon County Local Emergency Planning Committee Agenda Summary
Meeting Date: January 21, 2026

Agenda Item Number:
4.d
Subject:
For Possible Action: Review and approve annual Lyon County Hazardous Materials Emergency
Response Plan for submittal to the State Emergency Response Commission.
Summary:
Financial Department Comments:
Approved As To Legal Form:
County Manager Comments:
Recommendation:
ATTACHMENTS
• 2026 Lyon County Hazardous Materials Response Plan
• 2026 Equipment List
• Facility List 2026
• 2026 Membership Form
• EPCRA Public Notice Information
• 2026 Level of Response Form
• 2026 NRT Checklist

10

LYON COUNTY

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN
Lyon County Local Emergency Planning Committee
Revised January 2026

11

This Page Left Blank Intentionally

12

LYON COUNTY

January 2026
Lyon County
Local Emergency Planning Committee
27 S. Main Street
Yerington, Nevada 89447
To the Citizens of Lyon County:
Hazardous Materials are common and important components of our everyday life. When properly
controlled, these materials are useful elements in business, industry, agriculture and our homes.
Uncontrolled, they may present a hazard to health and safety, the environment and property.
To meet the risks posed by hazardous materials, cooperative, concerted and continuing efforts are being
made to take the following actions:
1. Locate, identify and quantify hazardous materials used and transported in Lyon County.
2. Prepare to respond to any emergencies involving hazardous materials in Lyon County.
This Lyon County Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Plan is one important part of the overall
program to address hazardous materials and implement the emergency planning and community rightto-know aspects of Title III of the Superfund Amendment and Reauthorization Act of 1986 (Public Law
99-499).
Hazardous materials planning, response and recovery cannot be handled successfully by any one
organization or group. Rather, these efforts must be accomplished through the cooperative efforts of
local, state and federal authorities, and private industry.
The results of the Lyon County Emergency Planning Committee’s (LEPC) ongoing planning efforts are set
forth in this Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Plan.

/s/ Taylor N. Allison
Taylor N. Allison, Lyon County Emergency Manager
Lyon County Local Emergency Planning Committee Co-Chair

Revised: January 2026

i

13

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

DISCLAIMER
The response to and management of emergencies are dynamic processes that require written
plans and guidance, and the use of experience, judgment and creativity. Lyon County, Lyon
County Emergency Management, the Lyon County Local Emergency Planning Committee and
participating agencies and organizations have established plans and procedures that provide the
basis for successful response to emergencies. However, emergencies are, by definition,
extraordinary events that entail unpredictable and unique circumstances.
During emergencies conditions may develop where standard practices and methods are not
sufficient. Nothing in this Plan should be interpreted as limiting or prohibiting the application of
common sense, experience, initiative and ingenuity in overcoming the complexities that exist
during emergencies. All response actions and activities must be carried out within the limitations
of personnel training, equipment and available resources.
Lyon County, Lyon County Emergency Management, the Lyon County Local Emergency Planning
Committee and those charged with carrying out response to emergency incidents are responsible
for ensuring that this Plan is accurate and appropriate for Lyon County. These agencies must
make sure the Plan is reviewed and the actions taken in response to emergencies are proper.
Training, exercising and periodic revision, as needed, are required to make sure the Plan
continues to be a useful guide for successfully dealing with emergencies in Lyon County.
The authors and reviewers have provided Lyon County with assistance in preparing/revising this
Plan, under the County’s specific direction and oversight. However, Lyon County assumes all
liability arising from the use of this Plan and information contained herein.

Revised: January 2026

ii

14

LYON COUNTY

RECORD OF CHANGES
This Plan will be reviewed and updated periodically. Record changes in the table below.
When posting changes:
 Replace the old page(s) with the new page(s).
 Enter the change information in the table and sign the entry.

PAGE(S)
AFFECTED

DATE OF
CHANGE

ALL

3/30/2012

ALL (Pages i, iii, v-vii,

3.4; Sections 15, 16, 17,
18, 19)

CHANGE MADE BY
(SIGNATURE)

1/2013

Pages i, iii, v-vii,
3.7, 5.2-5.3;
Sections 16, 17,
18, 19

1/2014

Pages i, iii,
Sections 16, 17,
18, 19

1/2015

Pages i, iii,
Sections 16, 17,
18, 19
Pages 1.5, 1.6,
1.7, 6.3-4, 7.1,
12.4-8, 13.8,
13.10-11, 13.1415, 13.22, 13.35,
13.38, 14.2, 14.9,
14.13, 14.18-20,
14.31-32, 14.40,
14.44, 14.49,
15.14, 18.4

DATE
ENTERED

1/2016

4/2016

Sec 19

Jan-2026

/s/ Taylor N. Allison

Sec 17

Jan-2026

/s/ Taylor N. Allison

Revised: January 2024

iii

15

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

PLAN REVIEW CRITERIA INDEX
This Index shows where to look for information related to the nine basic Hazardous Materials Emergency
Plan Review Criteria. The criteria are set forth in Title III of the Superfund Amendments and
Reauthorization Act of 1986, Section 303 (c), and the National Response Team’s “Criteria for Review of
Hazardous Materials Emergency Plans,” NRT 1-A. The Nevada State Emergency Response Commission
uses the basic criteria to review local hazardous materials response plans.
GENERAL CRITERIA
1.

INFORMATION LOCATION

Identification of facilities subject to
requirements and transportation
routes

Section 15, Section 16

2.

Emergency response procedures,
on and off-site

Sections 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14 and 20

3.

Designation of community and
facility emergency coordinators

Pages 3.2 and 3.5

4.

Emergency notification procedures

Section 4, Pages 14.6-14.7

5.

Methods for determining probable
affected areas and populations

Pages 1.2, 6.1-6.4, 16.12-16.13; Sections 5 & 15

6.

Identification of community and
facility emergency equipment, and
persons responsible

Section 17

7.

Evacuation plans

Section 9, Page 14.20; Lyon County Evacuation Plan

8.

Training programs

Page 2.6, Section 10. Pages 14.14-14.16

9.

Methods and schedules for
exercising emergency response
plans

Pages 2.6-2.7, Section 19

Revised: January 2020

iv

16

LYON COUNTY

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SUBJECT
LETTER OF PROMULGATION

PAGE

Letter of Promulgation

i

Disclaimer

ii

Record of Changes

iii

Plan Review Criteria Index

iv

Table of Contents

v

Immediate Action Checklists – How to Use the Immediate Action Checklists
Immediate Action – General
Immediate Action – Downstream Notification
Immediate Action – Railroad
Immediate Action – Pipeline
Immediate Action – Waterway
Immediate Action – Fixed Facility
Immediate Action – Motor Transportation
Immediate Action – Abandoned/Unknown Containers
Immediate Action – WMD/CBRNE/Terrorism

1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
1.10

Purpose
Objectives
Scope
Situation
Authorities
Hazardous Materials Assumptions
Relationship to Laws and Other Plans
Concept of Operations
Neighboring Counties and Indian Tribe Relationships
Predetermined Arrangements
Response Functions
Evaluation & Training
Plan Development & Maintenance

2.1
2.1
2.2
2.2
2.3
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.5
2.5
2.5
2.6
2.6

Board of County Commissioners
Local Emergency Planning Committee
Lyon County Emergency Management
Fire Protection Districts
Law Enforcement
Public Health
Public Works
Medical Services
Fixed Facilities & Transportation Companies
State Government
Federal Government
Support Agencies

3.1
3.1
3.2
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.4
3.4
3.5
3.6
3.6
3.7

Notification and Warning

4.1

DISCLAIMER

RECORD OF CHANGES
PLAN REVIEW CRITERIA INDEX
TABLE OF CONTENTS

IMMEDIATE ACTION CHECKLISTS

PLAN OVERVIEW

ORGANIZATION ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

NOTIFICATION AND WARNING

Revised: January 2020

TAB

TAB 1

TAB 2

TAB 3

TAB 4

v

17

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Table of Contents (Continued)
SUBJECT
DIRECTION AND CONTROL

PAGE

Levels of Response
Level I
Level II
Level III
Notification Chart
Hazardous Materials Incident Decision Making Process
Hazardous Materials Incident Checklist
Site Safety Plan
Weapons of Mass Destruction
Incident Command System

5.1
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
5.6
5.8
5.8
5.10

Hazardous Materials Incident Control Zones
General Information
Exclusion Zone
Contamination Reduction Zone
Support Zone
Decontamination Procedures

6.1
6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.4

Radio Communications Plan

7.1

Unidentified Hazardous Materials Incident
Low Risk Hazardous Materials Incident
High Risk Hazardous Materials Incident
Hazardous Materials Incident-Summary Statement

8.1
8.1
8.1
8.2

Evacuation Procedures

9.1

Training Programs
Hazardous Materials Response Teams
Certification
Medical Training

10.1
10.1
10.1
10.2

ICS Information

11.1

Medical Plan

12.1

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE GLOSSARY OF STANDARDIZED TERMS

13.1

Standard Operating Procedures

14.1

Risk Assessment

15.1

Fixed Facilities
EHS Fixed Facilities
Bulk Storage Facilities
Sensitive Facilities and Populations

16.2
16.11
16.14
16.17

Equipment List

17.2

EMERGENCY TELEPHONE LIST

18.2

RESPONSE PERSONNEL SAFETY

COMMUNICATIONS

PUBLIC INFORMATION & COMMUNITY RELATIONS

PERSONAL PROTECTION OF CITIZENS
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

INCIDENT COMMAND SYSTEM

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS MEDICAL PLAN
GLOSSARY OF TERMS

QUAD COUNTY HAZARDOUS MATERIALS TEAM SOP
HAZARD AND RISK ANALYSIS
FACILITIES LISTS

RESOURCES

EMERGENCY TELEPHONE LISTINGS

Revised: January 2020

TAB 5

TAB 6

TAB 7
TAB 8

TAB 9
TAB 10

TAB 11
TAB 12
TAB 13
TAB 14
TAB 15
TAB 16

TAB 17
TAB 18

vi

18

LYON COUNTY

Table of Contents (Continued)
SUBJECT
TRAINING AND EXERCISE SCHEDULE

PAGE

Training and Exercise Schedule

19.2

Declaration Of Emergency
Emergency Information
ICS Forms
Medical Forms

20.2
20.4
20.8
20.18

FORMS

Revised: April 2020

TAB 19
TAB 20

vii

19

20

LYON COUNTY

IMMEDIATE ACTION CHECKLISTS
How to Use the Immediate Action Checklists
Refer to the Red Section entitled "Immediate Action - General" for: First Responder Safety and
Incident Command and Scene Security
1. Select the appropriate card from the list below.
2. Follow the instructions on the card.
3. Maintain communications until all the information is obtained.
4. Refer to appropriate Response Function for further direction.
Nothing in this section shall be determined as an obstacle to the experience, initiative, and ingenuity of
the responders in overcoming the complexities that exist under actual emergency conditions

IMMEDIATE ACTION – GENERAL
IMMEDIATE ACTION – DOWNSTREAM NOTIFICATION
IMMEDIATE ACTION – RAILROAD
IMMEDIATE ACTION - PIPELINE
IMMEDIATE ACTION - WATERWAY
IMMEDIATE ACTION – FIXED FACILITY
IMMEDIATE ACTION – MOTOR TRANSPORTATION
IMMEDIATE ACTION – ABANDONED/UNKNOWN CONTAINERS
IMMEDIATE ACTION – WMD/CBRNE/TERRORISM
Revised: April 2016

1.1

21

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Revised: April 2016

1.2

22

LYON COUNTY

IMMEDIATE ACTION – GENERAL
First Responder
Approach the incident location from an upwind, uphill, and/or upstream direction.
1. Position vehicle heading away from the incident location.
2. If available, wear full protective clothing (i.e., turnouts-pants, coat, hood, gloves, boots,
helmet) and positive-pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
3. Avoid “rushing” into the area.
4. Avoid entering or approaching vapors or smoke.
5. Avoid contact with product.
6. Consider all unidentified containers or released products (including smoke) as a hazardous
material until it is positively identified as non-hazardous.

Incident Command and Scene Security

1. Establish an Incident Command Post and fully implement ICS.
2. Isolate the scene and deny entry to all unauthorized personnel, vehicles, and equipment
(establish a perimeter).
3. Notify appropriate emergency response agencies:
a) Hazardous Materials Response Team.
b) Fire agencies.
c) Law Enforcement.
d) EMS units (ambulances).
e) Area hospitals.
f) Nevada State Health.
g) Lyon County Emergency Management
h) Nevada Division of Emergency Management
Immediate Action Checklist
1.
Establish Incident Command
2.
Establish Exact Incident Location
3.
Determine Legal Jurisdiction
4.
Determine Isolation Zones
5.
Collect Product Information
6.
Determine the Size of Exclusion Zone
7.
Determine Level of Response
8.
Determine if Additional Resources are Required
9.
Establish Size of Spill and Spill Potential
10. If spill can reach a waterway, begin Downstream Notifications
11. Establish Evacuation Routes
12. Determine Medical Needs
13. Determine Entry Level (PPE)
14. Determine Communications Needs
Revised: April 2016

1.3

23

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

IMMEDIATE ACTION – DOWNSTREAM NOTIFICATION
The following Downstream Notifications shall be made whenever there is a
threat or actual discharge of a hazardous materials product into a *waterway.
•

A waterway is defined as any lake, river, stream, tributary, ditch, canal, storm drain or
sewer.

Dispatch
Provide the following information when notifying the Downstream Users:
•

Type of Incident (Rail, Motor Transport, Pipeline, Fixed Facility, etc.)

•

Location where the incident happened

•

Number of Injuries

•

Product Name (if known)

•

Type of Release

 Solid
•

 Liquid

 Gas

Size of Spill

 Quantity
 Length

x Width

•

Location where the product entered or will enter the waterway

•

Estimated time of entrance

Revised: April 2016

1.4

24

LYON COUNTY

IMMEDIATE ACTION – RAILROAD
For All Railroad Accidents and Releases
First Responder
1. Notify Local Emergency Dispatch - Activate 911
2. Isolate and deny entry to the area
3. Establish Control Zones
Dispatcher
1. Contact the Union Pacific Railroad

Union Pacific Railroad Critical
Response Management
Center
(888) 877-7267
2. Determine the following information:
• Type of Incident (derailment, fire, product release, collision)
• Location where the incident happened
 Mile Marker
 Accessibility
• Number of Injuries
• Product Name (if known)
• Type of Release
 Liquid
 Gas
 Solid
• Size of spill
 Quantity
 Length
x Width
• Has spill ignited? Yes
No
• Can the spill be contained? Yes
No
• Any information on the railcar or container
• Whether train operations on adjacent tracks are affected
• Description of exposures
 Occupied buildings
 Important buildings or structures
 Nearness to roadway, bridges, drainage structures, waterways

If spill can reach a waterway, begin Downstream Notifications

Revised: April 2016

1.5

25

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

IMMEDIATE ACTION - PIPELINE
For All Pipeline Accidents and Releases
First Responder
1. Notify Local Emergency Dispatch - Activate 911
2. Isolate and deny entry to the area
3. Shutdown all possible ignition sources (Stop ALL Vehicle Traffic)
4. Determine which pipeline is leaking (utilize pipeline location maps)
5. Attempt to identify the material
• Petroleum Products (gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, etc.)
• LPG (propane, natural gas)
Dispatcher
1. Contact the appropriate pipeline
 Kinder Morgan Pipeline for petroleum spills
24 Hour Emergency Number:
(775) 358-6971
 Tuscarora Pipeline for Natural Gas
24 Hour Emergency Number:
(800) 894-1488
 Paiute Pipeline for Natural Gas
24-Hour Emergency Number: (800) 882-0148
 Southwest Gas for Natural Gas
24-Hour Emergency Number: (800) 772-4555

2. Determine the following information:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Location where the incident happened
Number of Injuries
Product Name (if known)
Type of Release
 Solid
 Liquid
 Gas
Size of spill
 Quantity
x Width
 Length
Has spill ignited? Yes
No
Can the spill be contained? Yes
No
Description of exposures
 Occupied buildings
 Important buildings or structures
 Nearness to roadway, bridges, drainage structures, waterways

If spill can reach a waterway, begin Downstream Notifications

Revised: April 2016

1.6

26

LYON COUNTY

IMMEDIATE ACTION - WATERWAY
For All Accidents and Releases That Can Reach Any Waterways
A waterway is defined as any river, stream, tributary, ditch, canal, storm drain or sewer.
First Responder
1. Notify Local Emergency Dispatch - Activate 911
2. Isolate and deny entry to the area
3. Establish Control Zones
Dispatcher
1. Contact Sierra Pacific Power Company, dba NV Energy
2. Determine the following information:
• Location where the incident happened
• Number of Injuries
• Product Name (if known)
• Type of Release
 Solid
 Liquid
 Gas
• Size of spill
 Quantity
 Length
x Width
• Has spill ignited? Yes
No
• Can the spill be contained? Yes
No
• Location where the product entered or will enter the waterway
• Estimated time of entrance
• Description of:
 Exposures
 Occupied buildings
 Important buildings or structures
 Nearness to roadway, bridges, drainage structures, waterways

If spill can reach a waterway, begin Downstream Notifications

Revised: April 2016

1.7

27

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

IMMEDIATE ACTION – FIXED FACILITY
For All Fixed Facility Accidents and Releases
First Responder
1. Notify Local Emergency Dispatch - Activate 911
2. Isolate and deny entry to the area
3. Shutdown all possible ignition sources (Stop ALL Vehicle Traffic)
4. Establish Control Zones
Dispatcher
1. Contact the fixed facility emergency coordinator

Refer to Risk Analysis Appendix "A" for Information on
Select Facilities (not all fixed facilities are included in the listing)
2. Determine the following information:
• Location where the incident happened
• Number of Injuries
• Product Name (if known)
• Type of Release
 Solid
 Liquid
 Gas
• Size of spill
 Quantity
 Length
x Width
• Has spill ignited? Yes
No
• Can the spill be contained? Yes
No
• Is the release contained to the facility? Yes
No
• Description of exposures
 Occupied buildings
 Important buildings or structures
 Nearness to roadway, bridges, drainage structures, waterways

If spill can reach a waterway, begin Downstream Notifications

Revised: April 2016

1.8

28

LYON COUNTY

IMMEDIATE ACTION – MOTOR TRANSPORTATION
For All Motor Transportation Accidents and Releases
If the vehicle is known or suspected to carry hazardous
materials DO NOT APPROACH THE VEHICLE
First Responder
1. Notify Local Dispatch
2. Isolate and deny entry to the area
3. Shutdown all possible ignition sources (Stop ALL vehicle traffic)
4. Establish control zones
5. Attempt to locate driver
6. Attempt to identify the material
Dispatcher
1. Contact the shipper if possible
2. Determine the following information:
• Location where the incident happened
• Number of Injuries
• Product Name (if known)
• Type of Release
 Liquid
 Gas
 Solid
• Size of spill
 Quantity
 Length
x Width
• Has spill ignited? Yes
No
• Can the spill be contained? Yes
No
• Description of exposures
 Occupied buildings
 Important buildings or structures
 Nearness to roadway, bridges, drainage structures, waterways

If spill can reach a waterway, begin Downstream Notifications

Revised: April 2016

1.9

29

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

IMMEDIATE ACTION – ABANDONED/UNKNOWN CONTAINERS
If you discover a hazardous material or unlabeled
container and suspect it contains hazardous materials
DO NOT MOVE THE CONTAINER
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DETERMINE IF FULL
RETREAT TO AN UPWIND, UPHILL & UPSTREAM POSITION
First Responder
1. Notify Local Dispatch
2. Isolate and deny entry to the area
3. Shutdown all possible ignition sources (Stop ALL vehicle traffic)
4. Establish control zones
Dispatcher
1. Dispatch HAZMAT assignment for appropriate Fire Protection District
2. Determine the following information:
• Location of the Container
• Number of Injuries
• Product Name (if known)
• Has the Container Been Breached? Yes No
• Type of Release
 Solid
 Liquid
 Gas
• Size of spill
 Quantity
 Length
x Width
• Has spill ignited? Yes
No
• Can the spill be contained? Yes
No
• Description of exposures
 Occupied buildings
 Important buildings or structures
 Nearness to roadway, bridges, drainage structures, waterways

If spill can reach a waterway, begin Downstream Notifications

Revised: April 2016

1.10

30

LYON COUNTY

IMMEDIATE ACTION – WMD/CBRNE/TERRORISM
Weapons of Mass Destruction - Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear & Explosive

If you discover or suspect a WMD or CBRNE Device
DO NOT MOVE THE DEVICE
First Responder
1. Notify Local Dispatch
2. Isolate and deny entry to the area
3. Establish Control Zones
Dispatcher
1. Notify Sheriff’s Office to activate WMD/CBRNE plan
2. Dispatch HAZMAT assignment for appropriate Fire Protection District
3. Determine the following information:
• Location of the Device
• Number of Injuries
• Has the Device Been Breached? Yes
No
• Description of exposures
 Occupied buildings
 Important buildings or structures
 Nearness to roadway, bridges, drainage structures, waterways

Revised: April 2016

1.11

31

32

LYON COUNTY

SECTION 2:

PLAN OVERVIEW

Purpose:
1. The Lyon County Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Plan establishes the policies,
responsibilities, and procedures required to protect the health and safety of Lyon County's
populace, the environment, and public and private property from the effects of hazardous
materials incidents.
2. This plan establishes the emergency response organization for hazardous materials
incidents occurring within Lyon County. This plan also establishes the operational concepts
and procedures associated with hazardous materials response.
3. The Lyon County Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Plan is the principal guide for
agencies of Lyon County, its incorporated cities, and other local government entities in
mitigating hazardous materials emergencies. This plan is consistent with federal, state and
local laws and is intended to facilitate multi-agency and multi-jurisdictional coordination,
particularly between local, state, and federal agencies, in hazardous materials emergencies.
4. This plan is an operational plan as well as a reference document; it may be used for preemergency planning as well as emergency response. Agencies having roles and
responsibilities established by this plan are encouraged to develop standard operating
procedures (SOPs) and emergency response checklists based on the provisions of this plan.
Objectives:
Enable emergency response personnel to evaluate hazardous materials and take appropriate
emergency actions in order to save lives, reduce injuries, and prevent or minimize damage to
property and the environment. These actions may include:
1. Securing the affected area, isolating the hazard, and denying the entry of unauthorized
persons into the area.
2. Identification of the hazardous material.
3. Providing rapid and effective warning, information, and instructions to threatened
populations.
4. Providing means to access technical resources to stabilize the affected area and return to
normal conditions as quickly as possible.
5. Train and equip emergency response personnel (hazmat team members as well as first
responders) to efficiently and effectively mitigate hazardous materials incidents.
6. Describe the overall emergency response organization for hazardous materials incidents
occurring within Lyon County.

Revised: March 28, 2012

2.1

33

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

7. Delineate the responsibilities of local, state, and federal agencies in the event of a
hazardous materials incident in Lyon County.
8. Establish lines of authority and coordination for hazardous materials incidents.
9. Facilitate mutual aid to supplement local resources.
10. Describe procedures for accessing outside funding (e.g., state and federal funding) for the
mitigation of, and recovery from, hazardous materials incidents.
Scope:
1. The policies, procedures, and provisions of this plan are applicable to all agencies and
individuals; public and private, having responsibilities for hazardous materials emergency
preparedness, response, recovery and/or mitigation in Lyon County
2. For the purpose of this plan, a hazardous material is defined as:
A substance or combination of substances which, because of quantity,
concentration, physical, chemical or infectious characteristics, may cause or
contribute to an increase in mortality or an increase in serious irreversible o
incapacitating reversible illness, or pose a present or potential hazard to human
life, property or the environment.
3. This plan is intended to address acute releases and threatened releases of hazardous
materials, including oil spills, radiological incidents and acts of terrorism. Acute releases
require an immediate response in order to protect public health and safety, property, and
the environment. Examples of acute releases may range from an unidentified white powder
spilled along a roadway to a catastrophic chemical release with long-term health and
environmental implications.
4. This plan does not address the problems associated with the clean-up or remediation of
non-emergency or long-term hazardous waste sites.
Situation:
Hazardous materials are used, stored, manufactured, and transported in and through Lyon
County on a daily basis. To minimize the harm caused by a release of a hazardous material, an
ongoing process of hazard and risk analysis, cooperative planning, resource identification, and
preparation must be carried out. Because of limitations, the cities and county cannot prepare
for every possible type of release, but it can prepare for those that are likely to occur based on
a hazard and risk analyses.

Revised: March 28, 2012

2.2

34

LYON COUNTY

Authorities:
1. Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980, as
amended. (Public Law 95-510)
2. Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
3. Title III of the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986. (Public Law 99-499)
4. Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, and regulations promulgated under that Act.
Hazardous Materials Assumptions:
1. Hazardous materials incidents may occur anywhere and at any time in Lyon County. The
potential for a hazardous materials incident in Lyon County depends on the volume,
distribution, and/or use of chemicals and other hazardous substances in a particular area.
In general, the likelihood of a hazardous materials incident is greatest in the following areas:
a. Transportation Routes - Highways, railways, and commercial routes constitute a major
threat because of the multitude of chemicals and hazardous substances transported
along them. Interstate 80, Highway 50, Highway 95A, Highway 208, Highway 339,
Highway 338 and Highway 341 are areas of concern, as are the Southern Pacific and
Union Pacific railroad tracks.
b. Business and Industry - The manufacturing and light industrial firms in and near the City
of Fernley and City of Yerington, Silver Springs, Stagecoach, Dayton Valley, Mark Twain,
Mound House, Dayton and Smith Valley offer the potential for hazardous materials
incidents and use or store products which may be harmful to the sensitive ecosystems
of the area.
c. Agriculture - Accidental releases of pesticides, fertilizers, and other agricultural
chemicals may be harmful to human health and the environment. The majority of
agricultural industry consists of ranching and farming operations located throughout
Lyon County.
d. Illegitimate Business - Illegitimate businesses, such as drug laboratories, are a significant
threat to human health, property, and the environment. In many instances, the residue
is dumped in remote areas of the county or along the side of the road, posing a serious
health threat to the unsuspecting person who stumbles across it.
e. Hazardous Waste - Hazardous waste (e.g., used motor oil, solvents, or paint) is
occasionally dumped in remote areas of the county or along roadways. Like drug lab
residue, illegally dumped hazardous waste poses a threat to human health, property,
and the environment.

Revised: March 28, 2012

2.3

35

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

f. Radioactive Materials - Interstate 80, Highway 50 and 95, and the railroads are
authorized routes for the shipment of radioactive materials.
g. Acts of Terrorism - Terrorist acts are becoming more common today and much more
sophisticated. Events of recent years have prompted a move towards terrorist
preparedness.
2. Hazardous materials incidents may occur at any time, day or night, and in populated as well
as remote areas of Lyon County.
3. Hazardous materials incidents, even minor ones, usually require a multi-agency, multijurisdictional response. For this reason, it is essential that the Incident Command System,
and in many instances a unified command, be implemented immediately by responding
agencies.
4. Hazardous materials incidents may pose significant risks to emergency response personnel.
It is imperative that all emergency response personnel and potential first responders be
properly trained in appropriate hazardous materials emergency response actions.
5. Hazardous materials incidents may require large-scale evacuations or shelter-in-place
actions. These operations may present significant challenges in terms of warning and
notification, logistics, and agency coordination.
6. Hazardous materials incidents may generate widespread media and public interest. The
media must be considered an ally in these emergencies; they can provide considerable
assistance in emergency public information and warning.
7. Hazardous materials incidents may pose serious long-term threats to public health,
property, and the environment. These strategic considerations must be addressed in all
hazardous materials emergencies.
8. Significant hazardous materials incidents may require an extended commitment of
personnel and resources from involved agencies and jurisdictions.
9. Jurisdictions over the site of the release will remain within the city or county, unless the city
or county decides to relinquish its authority to another level of government.
10. The senior emergency response official responding to an emergency shall become the
individual in charge of a site specific Incident Command System. This shall be the case only
if the individual meets the qualifications as described in 29CFR1910.120.
Relationship to Laws and Other Plans
1. All portions of this plan shall be in accordance with the current Federal, State and Local laws
governing hazardous material emergency response.

Revised: March 28, 2012

2.4

36

LYON COUNTY

2. All portions of this plan shall be complementary to Federal, State and local fixed facility
plans.
3. All portions of this plan must coordinate and be complementary with the cities and county
CEMP.
Concept of Operations:
1. The problem of hazardous materials releases is not only a governmental responsibility, but
also one that includes all private industry locations in the county. Hazard identification,
planning, and response preparedness is constantly changing in the county and must be
addressed by a cooperative partnership of the public and private sector.
2. Lyon County is responsible for conducting emergency hazardous material operations within
their own jurisdictions.
3. The Incident Command System (ICS) provides the flexibility to rapidly activate and establish
an organizational form around the functions that need to be performed in order to
efficiently and effectively mitigate an emergency. For this reason, ICS will be used during all
hazardous materials incidents in Lyon County.
Neighboring Counties and Indian Tribe Relationships:
The Cities and the County recognize adjacent counties and the sovereign nature of Tribal
Governments and will provide assistance, upon request, to prevent injuries, loss of life, and to
protect property and the environment. The Cities and the County recognize the value and need
to plan, respond, mitigate and recover from hazardous materials incidents.
Predetermined Arrangements:
Special agreements or contracts may exist with businesses to plan, respond, mitigate and
recover from hazardous materials incidents.
Response Functions:
The Response Function sections are those areas of the Hazardous Materials Emergency Plan that
require further explanation and direction of key elements of the plan. These functional areas
may include Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), checklists, and statements of intent, phone
lists, or a combination of documents. These areas may have multiple agencies or groups that
input information or add resources to the sections. The LEPC shall review these Response
Functions annually to assure that all of the criteria of the functions are met and that the sections
contain the most recent information. The sections that have been determined by the LEPC to be
Response Functions include: Notification and Warning, Direction and Control, Response
Personnel Safety, Communication, Public Information and Community Relations, Personal
Protection of Citizens, Resource Management, Incident Command System, Hazardous Materials
Medical Plan, Quad County Hazardous Materials Team SOPs, and Forms.

Revised: March 28, 2012

2.5

37

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Evaluation and Training
Evaluation
1. The agency in charge of a hazardous materials incident will host and facilitate post- incident
analyses and critiques following hazardous materials incidents and exercises, respectively.
2. An after-action report may be prepared by the Lyon County LEPC and distributed to those
agencies involved in the hazardous materials incident or exercise.
Training
1. Initial and refresher training will be consistent with the provisions of 29CFR 1910.120.
Lyon County Emergency Response Personnel are currently trained to the Awareness or
Operations levels, with some responders trained to the Technician level. It is Lyon County’s
intent to train all Fire Protection Districts to the Operations level with some responders
trained to the Technician level. Training will be consistent with the Quad County Agreement.
The Lyon County LEPC will notify holders of this plan of training opportunities associated
with hazardous materials emergency response.
2. Individual agencies are responsible for maintaining training records.
3. This plan will be exercised at least annually. The Lyon County LEPC will conduct hazardous
materials emergency response exercises in accordance with its annual exercise schedule.
4. Agencies having assigned responsibilities under this plan must ensure their personnel are
properly trained to carry out these responsibilities.
Plan Development and Maintenance
Plan Development
1. The Lyon County Local Emergency Planning Committee has primary responsibility for
development, review, and coordination of this plan.
2. Input will be solicited from those agencies having assigned responsibilities under this plan.
Evidence of coordination is maintained on file with the Lyon County Local Emergency
Planning Committee.
Plan Review and Maintenance
1. This plan will be reviewed by the Lyon County Local Emergency Planning Committee at least
annually and updated as necessary. Any changes resulting from this annual review will be
published and distributed to agencies holding this plan.

Revised: March 28, 2012

2.6

38

LYON COUNTY

2. This plan may be modified as a result of hazardous materials post-incident analyses and/or
post-exercise critiques. Proposed changes shall be submitted in writing to the Lyon County
Local Emergency Planning Committee. These changes shall be published and distributed to
agencies holding this plan.
3. This plan may also be modified any time responsibilities, procedures, laws, rules, or
regulations pertaining to hazardous materials incidents change. Those agencies having
assigned responsibilities under this plan are obligated to inform the Lyon County Local
Emergency Planning Committee when changes occur or are imminent. These changes will
be published and distributed to agencies holding this plan.

Revised: March 28, 2012

2.7

39

40

LYON COUNTY

SECTION 3:

ORGANIZATIONAL ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Board of County Commissioners will:
1. Review and approve the Lyon County Hazardous Materials Response Plan.
2. Review the membership of the LEPC.
3. Participate in LEPC planning with representatives from the Board.
4. Pass ordinances needed to support the purpose of this plan.
5. Make policy decisions in the areas of:
• Evacuation
• Funding
• Request for state and federal assistance
• Mutual aid agreements
• Declaration of State of Emergency
Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) will:
1. The LEPC should consist of, as a minimum, representatives from the following groups:
• County and State elected officials
• Law Enforcement
• Emergency Management
• Fire Service
• Health Services
• Emergency Medical Service
• Hospitals
• Environmental Agency
• Transportation
• Media
• Community Organizations
• Private Facility Owners or Operators
2. Members will be reviewed by the Lyon County Board of Commissioners and approved by
the State Emergency Response Commission.
3. The LEPC will perform the following duties:
• Elect a chairperson and establish rules by which the committee will function.
• Establish procedures for processing request from the public for information and
designate a coordinator for such information.
• Complete an emergency plan in accordance with Section 303, Title III of the SARA.
• Review the plan annually.
• Develop annual test of the plan.

Revised: January 2014

3.1

41

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

County Emergency Management Director/Coordinator will:
1. Be the central point of contact for the plan.
2. Be a member of the LEPC.
3. Coordinate planning and logistics activities, as needed.
4. Shall be the designated Emergency Management Coordinator in accordance with NRT-1
Fire Protection Districts will:
1. Participate in LEPC planning with representatives from all the fire protection agencies in the
county.
2. Establish working relations with facilities in their jurisdictions.
3. Enter into any approved agreements as necessary.
4. Comply with all hazardous materials training requirements and insure that their personnel
receive the mandated amounts and types of training in accordance with 29CFR1910.120
5. Maintain qualification and training records for all emergency response personnel. Ensure
that records are available at the scene of all incidents for review by OSHA.
6. The Fire Incident Commander will coordinate the mitigation of the hazardous materials
incident to the point when fire service assistance is no longer needed at the scene.
7. At a fixed facility incident, the IC will be in charge of the emergency response effort and
work jointly with the facilities on-scene coordinator.
8. The LEAD AGENCY shall effect overall management and coordination of a hazardous
materials incident.
9. Activate the Hazardous Materials Response Team.
10. Take appropriate action to mitigate the hazard, stabilize the situation, rescue any injured or
trapped persons and evacuate the area, as necessary. (Not to exceed the current level of
training)
11. When the incident is no longer an emergency, the Incident Commander will turn control of
the incident over to a certified clean up contractor trained to perform at the determined
incident level.
12. Provide current resource lists for inclusion into the plan.

Revised: January 2014

3.2

42

LYON COUNTY

13. Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for hazardous materials
response.
14. Review all materials sent to them by the fixed facilities.
15. Conduct Incident Command in accordance with the National Incident Management System
(NIMS).
16. Coordinate the contracts for hazardous materials services.
NOTE: Lyon County has some staff trained to the Technician Level. Those individuals may fulfill
duties as required when acting under the Quad County Hazardous Materials Response
Team in accordance with the Quad County Interlocal Agreement. General response of
responders in Lyon County will be only to the Operations Level.
Law Enforcement will:
1. Participate in LEPC planning with representatives from all the law enforcement agencies in
the county.
2. Comply with all hazardous materials training requirements and insure that their personnel
receive the mandated amounts and types of training.
3. Conduct evacuations as requested by the Incident Commander
4. Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for hazardous materials
response.
5. If first on the scene, act as the incident commander until relieved by the fire service.
6. Provide perimeter and traffic control at the incident as directed by the Incident
commander.
7. Provide security resources as required by the Incident Commander.
8. Provide personnel to fill positions within the ICS as requested by the Incident Commander.
9. Shall participate in Unified Command as necessary.
10. Conduct Incident Command in accordance with the National Incident Management System
(NIMS).
11. Maintain qualification and training records for all emergency response personnel. Ensure
that records are available at the scene of all incidents for review by OSHA.

Revised: January 2014

3.3

43

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Lyon County Health Officer and Nevada State Health will:
1. Provide representatives to the LEPC with regard to public health, emergency medical
services planning, and hazardous materials releases.
Note: Lyon County does not have a County Environmental Officer. The State Health Officer
assigned to Lyon County is limited to water, sewer and food issues. Lyon County health
options are:
1. Contact neighboring counties for assistance.
2. Contact Nevada Division of Emergency Management
3. Contact Federal Regional Response Team
Public Works will: (Road Division, Facilities Division, Utilities Division)
1. Participate in LEPC planning with regard to public works.
2. Provide an updated list of equipment and personnel available to support emergency
operations.
3. Provide public works personnel with appropriate training in hazardous materials response.
(29CRF1910.120.q.4) Minimum training - Awareness Level
4. Assist in spill control, as requested.
5. Perform actions to protect water and sewer systems, if endangered and as requested.
6. Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for hazardous materials
response.
7. Provide personnel to fill positions within the ICS as requested by the Incident Commander.
8. Shall participate in Unified Command as necessary.
9. Conduct Incident Command in accordance with the National Incident Management System
(NIMS).
Medical Services will:
1. Pre-hospital medical personnel will initiate the Medical Plan as appropriate; provide triage,
treatment and transport of victims and incident personnel exposed to hazardous material
after primary decontamination has been completed; staff the medical branch positions; and
provide medical monitoring of the Hazmat team(s).
2. The acute care hospitals will provide treatment of victims and incident personnel, provide
primary decontamination of walk-in patients and secondary decontamination of patients

Revised: January 2014

3.4

44

LYON COUNTY

received from the scene as necessary, and act as a resource for medical treatment
information and on-line medical control of pre-hospital personnel.
3. All medical personnel both on and off scene will maintain close communication regarding
the identity; health effects and medical care information for victims.
4. Pre-hospital personnel and hospital staff will attempt to limit additional exposure to victims,
themselves and their vehicles, equipment and facilities through the use of appropriate
precautions and personal protective equipment.
5. Participate in LEPC planning with regard to medical issues.
6. Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for hazardous materials
response.
7. Provide personnel to fill positions within the ICS as requested by the Incident Commander.
8. Shall participate in Unified Command as necessary.
9. Conduct Incident Command in accordance with the National Incident Management System
(NIMS).
Fixed Facilities and/or Transportation Companies will:
1. Comply with all federal, state and local hazardous materials reporting requirements.
2. Participate in the LEPC as requested.
3. Provide information to the LEPC in accordance with SARA Title III and the Hazardous
Materials Uniform Transportation Act of 1990.
4. Provide information to health professionals, doctors, and nurses in accordance with Section
323 of Title III.
5. Designate a facility emergency coordinator to be in charge of facility personnel and work
jointly with the Incident Commander. Duties should be carried out by the facility Emergency
Management or Environmental Health & Safety person(s) of the respective Tier II facility.
Facility coordinators shall coordinate 24-hour spill reporting to the County LEPC, Community
Coordinator, and Nevada Division of Environmental Protection. Facility Coordinator(s) will
ensure 24/7 contact information is updated with Lyon County Emergency Management and
documented in the facility Emergency Action Plan per local, State, and Federal regulations.
6. Establish working relationships with the local fire service.
7. Provide personnel to fill positions within the ICS as requested by the Incident Commander
for incidents directly related to the fixed facility or Transportation Company. All other
participation is voluntary.
Revised: January 2014

3.5

45

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

8. Conduct Incident Command in accordance with the National Incident Management System
(NIMS).
9. Provide immediate notification to the local fire department upon discovery of a release of
hazardous materials as required by Section 304.4.1 of Title III via telephone, radio, or in
person.
State Governments:
1. Nevada Division of Emergency Management (DEM):
DEM is, under Nevada law, the coordinating agency for state emergency response.
2. Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (DEP):
DEP regulates hazardous wastes, provides advice on environmental matters, can test for
certain chemicals, and makes final decisions on remediation when not performed by the
Lyon County District Health Department.
3. Nevada Division of Health:
The Division is responsible for the public health and can test for contamination from
chemical and organisms. Other sections of the division that may assist are:
• Radiological Health is responsible for the incidents involving radioactive materials.
• Emergency Medical Services may assist in coordinating emergency medical response.
4. Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT):
NDOT has highway maintenance yards throughout the state with heavy equipment and
other resources that may be used by the local responder under certain circumstances.
NDOT has the power to close highways to traffic.
5. Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles and Public Safety:
The department controls the licensing and regulation of commercial carriers throughout the
state. The Nevada Highway Patrol (NHP) is part of the department and enforces highway
transportation regulation in the State.
NHP also controls the State law enforcement
communication net that may be used for emergency communications.
Federal Governments:
1. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):
The EPA is responsible for environmental matters at the Federal level. Support to the state
includes, sending technical teams and On-Scene Coordinators to the sites of releases or
dumps, providing advice, and enforcing violations of environmental law.

Revised: January 2014

3.6

46

LYON COUNTY

2. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA):
FEMA can provide coordination on the Federal level and funds training classes. FEMA
provides grants for training under the provisions of Title III.
3. Department of Transportation (DOT):
DOT publishes many hazardous materials publications that are available to the local
responders. Under DOT is the Coast Guard that can provide hazardous materials teams in
some cases. The team serving this area is the Pacific Strike Team.
4. Department of Energy (DOE):
The DOE Nevada Operations Office (NVOO), by agreement with DEM, will provide
radiological assistance to the State when requested. NVOO also provides radiological
training to NHP and selected law enforcement and fire agencies. NVOO also has limited
cleanup capability.
5. Department of Interior (DOI):
DOI U.S. Geological Survey, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service and Bureau of Indian Affairs all can provide technical information such
as location of sensitive habitats and species, water data, natural resource information and
land management/use information. BOR, BLM, USF&WS, and BIA have trust responsibility
for the lands they manage.
6. Federal Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA):
DEA will provide specialist in the event of the discovery of an actual or suspected
clandestine drug laboratory or dump of chemicals.
7. Department of Defense (DOD):
DOD can provide resources for civilian incidents involving explosives, WMD and CBRNE.
DOD will respond to incidents involving military weapons, aircraft and assets, and may
assume jurisdiction and command of such incidents.
Support Agencies
Support agencies are those agencies that will supply support services or resources to the
incident scene. They include:
• American Red Cross
• Salvation Army
• Critical Incident Stress Debriefing Teams

Revised: January 2014

3.7

47

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Supporting agencies will:
1. Participate in LEPC planning with representatives from all the fire protection agencies in the
county.
2. Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for hazardous materials
response.
3. Provide personnel to fill positions within the ICS as requested by the Incident Commander.

Revised: January 2014

3.8

48

LYON COUNTY

SECTION 4:

NOTIFICATION AND WARNING

Notifications and Warning Systems
This section is critical when life-threatening materials are released. One organization will be
responsible for alerting the public and response teams as soon as word of the release is received.
The Lyon County 911 Dispatch will be used to make notifications. This plan shall include, but not
be limited to, the following:
Notification Guideline
Establish a Protocol Procedure
1. The Incident Commander may request outside municipal, state, federal or private resources
at any time during a hazardous materials response without upgrading the incident response
level.
2. The Incident Commander may request any other Hazmat Teams without declaring a Level III
incident.
3. Lyon County Dispatch shall make Local, State, Federal, and Industrial agency notifications as
requested and directed by the Incident Commander in the field.

Revised: March 28, 2012

4.1

49

50

LYON COUNTY

SECTION 5: DIRECTION AND CONTROL
Levels of Response
Hazardous materials incidents are categorized as Level I, II, or III depending on the severity of
the incident. The criteria used to determine the level of an incident includes:
1. The characteristics of the hazardous material.
2. The nature of its release.
3. The area affected by the hazardous materials incident (e.g., populations, sensitive
ecosystems, waterways, transportation routes, etc.).
4. The extent of multi-agency and multi-jurisdictional involvement.
5. Evacuations, injuries, or fatalities.
6. The technical expertise and equipment needed to safely mitigate the incident.
The determination of incident levels shall be a collective decision between the Incident
Commander and an Initial Response Team (which may include representatives from Lyon
County Emergency Manager).
In ascending order of severity, these levels are defined as:
Level I
A minor situation within the capabilities of first responders trained at the "operational" level. A
Level I incident involves a release, or possible release, of a small amount of liquid or solid of a
known (identified) hazardous material. In addition, the agencies on-scene have the expertise
and proper equipment to safely mitigate the incident.
1. As a minimum, a command post and an exclusion zone should be established with a level I
incident, and any movement of personnel into the exclusion zone should be limited to
personnel entering for a specific reason and in the proper level of protective equipment.
2. An incident should be immediately upgraded to Level II for a release or potential release of
an unknown hazardous material or suspected hazardous material.
3. Typical Level I incidents include:
a) Minor leaks or spills from a 55-gallon drum.
b) Minor leaks or spills which can be handled with several shovels of an absorbent material
readily available on-site.
c) Minor leaks or spills within the capability of a driver or operator to correct and mitigate.

Revised: January 2014

5.1

51

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

d) Leaking valves on upright cargo tanks, which do not require the product to be
immediately off-loaded.
e) Release of chemicals that do not produce an environment that is immediately
dangerous to life and health (IDLH) or above the Lower Explosion Limit (LEL) of a
product, other than possibly inside the transport vehicle.
f) Leaks or spills of paint or batteries.
g) Overturned, empty cargo tanks, which the Incident Commander determines to present
no other hazards.
h) Evacuations limited to a single intersection or building.
i) Minor injuries to a small number of people and no fatalities.
j) Agency response has adequate resources, technical expertise, training and equipment
to safely mitigate the incident.
k) Hydrocarbon spills in excess of legal reportable quantities.
Level II
Is an incident beyond the capabilities of an agency with jurisdictional responsibility for the
incident. This requires a response by the Hazmat Team or another appropriate, qualified,
specialized resource. This can range from a small incident involving any amount of an unknown
substance to a large incident involving multiple agencies and jurisdictions.
1. A Level II incident should be declared by the Incident Commander and the Initial Response
Team if the incident involves a sufficient quantity of liquid or solid of a known hazardous
substance or any quantity of an unknown material that has been released or offers the
potential for release.
2. A Level II incident should be declared for the release of any quantity of a known solid or
liquid toxic material in a critical public area or for the release or potential release of any
quantity of an unknown solid, liquid, or gaseous toxic material or suspected toxic material.
3. In a Level II incident, a formal and properly identified Command Post with a removed
staging area, an Incident Safety Officer, and a Hazardous Materials Group must be
established. Control zones must be established and maintained as early as possible, and
evaluated and monitored throughout the incident. Localized evacuation may need to be
implemented and outside agencies should be notified.
4. Typical Level II incidents include:
a) One or more 55 gallon drums leaking considerable amounts of a known substance.
b) A major liquefied gas leak due to puncture, crack, or crease of a large tank where
ignition sources are a real threat.
c) Overturned cargo tanks with a hazardous material on board.
d) Train derailments not involving railroad tank cars filled with hazardous materials.
e) A vehicle or train fire involving hazardous materials or hazardous wastes.
f) Leaking cargo tanks with hazardous materials on board whose structural integrity is in
question.
g) Incidents involving a fatality or serious injury attributed to the hazardous substance.
Revised: January 2014

5.2

52

LYON COUNTY

h) Evacuations consisting of an apartment complex, city block, or large facility with many
employees.
i) A large spill of flammable liquids where ignition sources poses a serious threat.
j) A fire that poses serious threat of a boiling liquid expending vapor explosion (BLEVE).
Level III
Is an incident beyond the capabilities of the local resources and hazmat team. The incident may
be quite lengthy in duration and may necessitate large-scale evacuations. It is likely a Level III
incident will involve multiple agencies and jurisdictions, as well as resources from the private
sector (including chemical manufacturers) and voluntary organizations.
1. Examples of Level III incidents include:
a) Those incidents involving large-scale evacuations that may extend beyond jurisdictional
boundaries.
b) Any spill, leak, or fire involving hazardous materials that has gone to greater alarms.
c) Any incident beyond local capabilities and resources (including the hazmat team) to
safely identify, contain, and mitigate.
d) Train derailments involving railroad tank cars containing hazardous materials.
e) Flammable liquid or gas cargo tank or railroad tank cars involved in or threatened by
fire.
f) Major leaks of compressed or liquefied gas cargo tanks or railroad tank cars caused by
puncture or major structural damage.

Revised: January 2014

5.3

53

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Response Level

I
Potential Emergency
Condition

II
Limited Emergency
Condition

III
Full Emergency
Condition

Revised: January 2014

Description

Contact

An incident or threat of a release
which can be controlled by the first
response agencies and does not
require evacuation of other than the
involved structure or the immediate
outdoor area.
The incident is confined to a small
area and does not pose an
immediate threat to life or property.

• Fire Department
• Emergency Medical
Services
• Law Enforcement
• Partial EOC Staff
• Public Information Office

In incident involving a greater
hazard or larger area that poses a
potential threat to life or property
and which may require a limited
evacuation of the surrounding area.

All Agencies in Level I and
• Level "A" HAZMAT
Teams
• EOC Staff
• Public Works Department
• Health Department
• Red Cross
• County Emergency
Management Agency
• NHP
• Public Utilities
• CHEMTREC
• National Response Center

An incident involving a severe
hazard or a large area which poses
an extreme threat to life and
property and will probably require
a large scale evacuation; or an
incident requiring the expertise or
resources of county, State,
Federal, or private agency
organizations.

All Level I and II Agencies
plus the following as needed:
• Mutual Aid Fire, Police.
Emergency Medical
• NDEM
• NDEP
• Nevada Dept of Health
• EPA
• USCO
• ATSDR
• FEMA
• OSC/RRT

5.4

54

LYON COUNTY

Hazardous Materials Incidents Decision Making Process

Revised: January 2014

5.5

55

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Hazardous Materials Incident Checklist
1. Isolate the Area and Deny Entry

 Determine the Hazard Area Involved
 Establish Control of the Hazard Area
 Determine Incident Control Zones (Hot, Warm, Cold)
 Advise All Units of Area to be Isolated
2. Identify and Verify the Materials Involved

 Obtain Shipping Papers or Facility Documents (only if safely possible)
 Write Down All Information Obtained
 Verify the Source and Accuracy of all Information
3. Hazard and Risk Assessment

 Evaluate the Following Concerns
 Health Physical Properties Flammability
 Chemical Properties Reactivity
 Assess Container Integrity (Stress, Breach, Release, etc.)
 Determine all Exposures
 Estimate Likely Harm Without Intervention
4. Evaluate Protective Clothing and Equipment

 Determine Proper Type and Level of Protective Clothing Required
Note: Structural Fire-Fighting Clothing Will Not Provide Chemical Protection.

Revised: January 2014

5.6

56

LYON COUNTY

5. Coordinate Information and Resources

 Coordinate Information Between All Branches/Divisions/Groups
 Conduct Briefing of All Branch/Division/Group Officers to Develop Tactical Options
 Advise Incident Commander of Tactical Options and Recommendations
6. Control, Containment and Confinement

 Review Tactical Options With Entry Personnel
 Coordinated All Operations With the Safety Officer
 Will Decontamination be Required After Entry Operations?
 Yes Implement Decontamination Procedures Prior to Entry
 No Continue
7. Decontamination Procedures

 Decontamination Procedures Determined and Verified
 Decontamination Area In Place and Fully Staffed
8. Entry Team Procedures
9. Termination Procedures

 Ensure All Personnel Are Briefed as Necessary
 Signs and Symptoms of Exposure Provided
 Personnel Exposures Documented

Revised: January 2014

5.7

57

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Site Safety Plan

To ensure that personnel will conform to standard operating safety procedures and safe
operating safety practices, a site safety plan should be developed, with input from the safety
officer and Haz-mat Safety, for all phases of the operation. All personnel should be made
familiar with this should be written and posted. As a minimum, the site safety plan must:
Site Safety Plan Elements:

 Evaluate the risks associated with the operations to be conducted.
 Identify key personnel to ensure incident safety
 Address levels of personal protective clothing and equipment
 Designate the boundaries of the of the various work areas
 Establish decontamination procedures for personnel and equipment
 Determine, control, and monitor the number of personnel operating within designated
work zones.
 Establish emergency procedures (i.e. escape routes, communications, Back-up Teams,
hand signals, etc.)
 Notify nearest medical facility and arrange for emergency care of potential toxicological
problems
 Implement a program for periodic air sampling and personnel monitoring
Weapons of Mass Destruction/CBRNE/Terrorism
“Terrorism: the systematic use of terror especially as a means of coercion”
By definition terrorism acts result from antigovernment issues, whether it is politically or socially
motivated. Our particular area is considered a higher than normal risk due to anti- Federalism
sentiment in our state.
Terrorism does not necessarily come from “outside” the U.S. Organized militias have been
established in 40 of the 50 states including Nevada. Acts of terrorism are not limited to bombings
like the World Trade Center and the Oklahoma Federal Building. In fact recently Nevada has had
four confirmed or potential terrorist acts; attempting to bomb the IRS in Reno, the Ken Gager
bombing and most recently anthrax scares in Las Vegas and Reno have been in the news.

Revised: January 2014

5.8

58

LYON COUNTY

The 1986 Public Report of the Vice President’s task force on combating terrorism stated:

Our vulnerability lies, ironically, in the strength of our open society and highly sophisticated infrastructure.
Transportation, energy, communication, finance, industry, medicine, defense, diplomacy and government
itself rely on intricate interrelated networks. Given these inherent vulnerabilities and the fact that Americans
are increasingly the targets of terrorist attacks outside the United States, it is apparent that a potentially
serious domestic threat exists.

Certainly Lyon County is a potential target for an act of terrorism probably in the energy
sabotage arena. The following information comes from the 1986 Public Report:
Energy Assets Affected in Terrorist Incidents: 1980-1988
Target Type
Number
Power Pylons/Power Lines
7,290
Fuel Tanker Trucks
1,184
Power substations
436
Petroleum/gas pipelines
343
Petroleum storage tanks/storage depot
339
Central Power Stations
303
Service Stations
238
Corporate/Government Offices
154
Truck/Car
91
Support Facilities
80
RR Tank Car
45
Other
1430
Total
11,933
The Key To Terrorism Prevention: Lyon County is committed to providing an increased
awareness of terrorism to prepare our responders and citizens for possible acts of terrorism.
Response Guide:
The following security information is provided to heighten awareness of potential terrorist or
criminal activity that may be directed at the work place or home.
Notify your local law enforcement agency of anything that seems suspicious.
1. At Work:
 Be aware of your surroundings
 Report suspicious persons, particularly if they are carrying suitcases or containers.
 Be aware of suspicious vehicles; either parked or cruising.
 Watch for unattended parcels, suitcases or other objects left in unusual locations.
 Request ID from unfamiliar delivery people.
 Secure areas not occupied by personnel, i.e. conference rooms, training rooms, storage
areas, etc.

 Designate a person who is responsible for daily checks of storage rooms, stairwells,
conference rooms and the like.

Revised: January 2014

5.11

59

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

2. In Your Vehicle:
 Keep doors locked and windows up.
 Do not display mail, magazines or packages with your addresses visible.
 Inform family and co-workers of your travel plans, destinations, and departure and
arrival times.
3. At Home:
 Be aware of suspicious persons or vehicles.
 Keep doors and windows locked, if possible. Deny entry to unauthorized people.
 Request ID from people that you do not know. Do not open doors for strangers.
 Do not give out any personal information on yourself, family or co-workers.
 If something does not look right, trust your senses and react accordingly. Contact local
law enforcement if necessary.
 Repair, upgrade or install security devices (locks, lights, and alarms).
 Destroy or shred all items that contain your name, address or other personal
information.
4. For Responders:
 Self-study course entitled “Emergency Response to Terrorism,” which was developed by
the U.S. Department of Justice and National Fire Academy.
 The videotape entitled “Surviving the Secondary Device,”: “The Rules Have Changed.”
 The video based training for first responders entitled “Terrorism: First Response.”
 The emergency education network workshop entitled “Emergency Response to
Terrorists Incidents.”
 The 16 hour course developed by the National Fire Academy entitled “Emergency
Response to Terrorism: Basic Concepts”
Incident Command System
1. Hazardous materials incidents often involve response from multiple disciplines and may
involve more than one jurisdiction. The Incident Command System (ICS), because of its
standardized organizational structure and common terminology, provides a useful and
flexible management system that is particularly adaptable to hazardous materials incidents
involving multi-jurisdictional response, both in the field and in the EOC.
2. ICS provides the flexibility to rapidly activate and establish an organizational form around
the functions that need to be performed in order to efficiently and effectively mitigate an
emergency. For this reason, ICS will be used during all hazardous materials incidents in
Lyon County.
3. ICS can be utilized for any type or size of hazardous materials emergency, ranging from a
minor incident involving only a few members of the emergency organization, to a major
incident involving several agencies and/or jurisdictions. ICS allows agencies to communicate
using common terminology and operating procedures. It also allows for the timely acquisition
of a combination of resources during time of emergency.

Revised: January 2014

5.10

60

LYON COUNTY

4. ICS organizational structure develops in a modular fashion based upon the type and size of
the incident. The organization staff builds from the top down. As the need arises, five
separate sections can be developed each with several units that may be established as
needed. The specific organizational structure established for any given hazardous materials
incident will be based on the management and resource needs of the incident.
5. Incident Command System Matrix

6. A hazardous materials incident will bring together a greater number and a wider variety of
agencies. It is assumed that all hazardous materials incidents will be managed under Unified
Command principles because in virtually all cases fire, law enforcement, and public health
will have some statutory functional responsibility for incident mitigation. Depending on
incident factors, several other agencies will respond to a hazardous materials incident. The
best method for ensuring effective information flow and coordination between the
responding agencies at the scene of a multi-agency incident is to establish a Unified
Command. Each key response agency should provide a representative to remain at the
command post who will have authority to speak for and commit agency resources. The
Assisting Agencies section of this document lists some of the typical functional
responsibilities of law enforcement and health agencies.

Revised: January 2014

5.11

61

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

7. The Hazardous Materials organized module is designed to provide an organized structure
that will provide necessary supervision and control for the essential functions required at
virtually all Hazardous Materials incidents. This is based on the premise that controlling the
tactical operations of companies and movement of personnel and equipment will provide a
spreading or contaminants. The primary functions will be directed by the Hazardous
Materials Group Supervisor, and all resources that have a direct involvement with the
hazardous material will be supervised by one of the functional leaders or the Hazardous
Materials Group Supervisor.

Revised: January 2014

5.12

62

LYON COUNTY

SECTION 6:

RESPONSE PERSONNEL SAFETY

Hazardous Materials Incident Control Zones
General
1. Control zones are the geographical areas within the control lines set up at a hazardous
materials incident. The three most commonly used are the
• Exclusion Zone
• Contamination Reduction Zone
• Support Zone
2. Control zones are established to
• Secure the scene
• Ensure the safety and requisite control of emergency services personnel and operations.
Revised: April 2016

6.1

63

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

•

Prevent personnel, vehicles, and other resources from entering a potentially hazardous
area.

3. The size and configuration of the control zones are not static and must be constantly reevaluated based on variables such as:
• Physical and chemical properties of an involved hazardous material(s).
• Quantity of the hazardous material(s).
• Size, shape and condition of the hazardous material’s container.
• Dispersion patterns of the hazardous material(s).
• Current and anticipated weather and wind conditions.
• Geographic features surrounding the incident.
• The presence of other nearby hazardous materials.
4. Control zones should be established by the Incident Commander whenever possible, and
based on all available technical information (guides and reference manuals) and advice from
the hazmat team.
5. Control zones provide an organized system that aids the Incident Commander in properly
managing and mitigating hazardous materials incidents, while maximizing protection of
emergency response personnel and citizens.
Exclusion Zone
1. The Exclusion Zone is the area immediately around the spill or release of hazardous
materials, and is the area where contamination occurs or can occur. It is the innermost of
the three zones at a site. Special protection is required for all personnel while in this zone.
2. The Exclusion Zone is the area of maximum hazard and must be restricted to essential
personnel wearing proper protective clothing. Access to the Exclusion Zone should be
controlled by the Incident Commander or designee, with entry and exit restricted to one
location. Only personnel or teams requested by the Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor
shall enter the Exclusion Zone. Command of the Exclusion Zone shall stay with the Hazardous
Materials Group Supervisor throughout the incident.
3. Personnel entering the Exclusion Zone should be kept to a minimum required to do the
assigned task, but never less than two persons, since operations in the Exclusion Zone shall
be accomplished using the buddy system in groups of two or more operating as a team. To
avoid confusion with directions form the perimeter, persons entering the Exclusion Zone
shall be given a number or marking that is easily spotted on their protective clothing.
4. All withdrawals from the Exclusion Zone must take place through the Contamination
Reduction Corridor. When a team enters the Exclusion Zone to conduct stabilization
operations, a Safety Team should be suited-up and available to assist with rescue and
decontamination activities.

Revised: April 2016

6.2

64

LYON COUNTY

5. The Safe Refuge Area is set up in the Exclusion Zone on the windward side of the hazard site
adjacent to the Exclusion Line and Decontamination Corridor.
6. An Exclusion Line separates the Exclusion Zone with the Contamination Reduction Zone. The
Exclusion Line is the innermost perimeter of the Contamination Reduction Zone. Ideally, the
Exclusion Line should be identified using tape marked “Hazardous Materials-Do Not Enter.”
Other available devices, such as traffic cones or natural or manmade barricades (ditches,
roads, fences, etc.), may also be used. The Exclusion Line should be easily recognized and
strictly enforced.
• Operations conducted in the Exclusion Zone include:
• Identifying the material(s) involved or threatening release.
• Conducting rescue, if appropriate.
• Containing and abating the release or threatened release.
7. The Exclusion Zone was formerly referred to as the Exclusion Zone.
Contamination Reduction Zone
8. The Contamination Reduction Zone is the area between the Exclusion Zone and the Support
Zone, separating the contaminated area from the Support Zone. The zone contains the
personnel decontamination station and requires a lesser degree of personnel protection than
the Exclusion Zone.
9. Within the Contamination Reduction Zone, Safety Team personnel and decontamination
equipment are assembled for those working in the Exclusion Zone. All unauthorized
personnel should be withdrawn from this area; only essential personnel should remain. As
in the Exclusion Zone, entry into and exit from the Contamination Reduction Zone should be
restricted to just one location.
10. A Decontamination Corridor should be established within the Contamination Reduction
Zone, with entry at the Exclusion Line from the Exclusion Zone. The extent of
decontamination will be determined by the product(s) involved and the amount of
exposure. All personnel exiting the Exclusion Zone must be properly decontaminated, and
when necessary, leave their protective clothing and equipment in the Decontamination
Corridor. All equipment removed from the Exclusion Zone should be decontaminated or
packaged and properly disposed of. Whenever possible, a check will be done (such as
checking pH, level of radiation, etc.) to verify the effectiveness of the decontamination
process. Disposal of equipment requires the approval of the Nevada Certified Emergency
Manager.
11. The outer perimeter of the Contamination Reduction Zone should be appropriately marked.
Ropes or traffic cones may be used, but are not as effective as warning tape. This perimeter
is called the Contamination Control Line: hazardous materials units will usually be located
just outside this line.

Revised: April 2016

6.3

65

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

12. Operations conducted in the Contamination Reduction Zone include:
 Decontamination of victims and emergency services personnel
 Establishing a safe refuge area
13. The Contamination Reduction Zone was formerly referred to as the Contamination Reduction
Zone.
Support Zone
1. The Support Zone is the safe, or “clean,” area beyond the outer perimeter of the
Contamination Control Line where personnel and equipment are not expected to become
contaminated and where special protective clothing is not required. Resources immediately
supporting the hazardous materials emergency operation are located here. The Command
Post and media briefing site are also located within the Support Zone.
2. Although the Support Zone is considered safe and the movement of persons is unrestricted,
with many incidents it is prudent to keep this area restricted to emergency services personnel
and to keep the public outside of the Support Area (these are precautions to take in the event
circumstances change due to the escalation of events or a change in environmental
conditions e.g., an increase in wind speed or a change in wind direction).
3. When determined by the Incident Commander, the public will be denied access to the
incident site by law enforcement/traffic control personnel.
4. An escape route from the Exclusion Zone to the Contamination Reduction Zone shall be
identified a kept open for emergency evacuation of personnel and equipment and the
removal of injured citizens or personnel.
5. Operations conducted in the Support Zone include:
• Providing emergency medical care.
• Providing an area for resources ad staging.
• Controlling access to all zones.
• Direction, control, and support of overall emergency operations (i.e., Command Post
and scene management).
• Conducting media briefings and interviews.
6. The Support Zone was formerly referred to as the Support Zone.
Decontamination Procedure
Purpose
The purpose of decontamination is to prevent the spread of any harmful or dangerous residues
or contaminants (on personnel or equipment) beyond the area of initial impact. Specific
measures required to decontaminate personnel and equipment will vary based on the

Revised: April 2016

6.4

66

LYON COUNTY

contaminant. The specific material involved and the degree and type (dermal, ingestion, or
inhalation) of exposure will determine the most appropriate decontamination measures.
Decontamination Levels and Procedures:
Level I- exposure is likely, but not known.
 Position person where water can be contained.
 Flush off with fog spray for one minute.
Level II- contamination is known, but skin contact and/or irritation is not evident.
 Position person where water can be contained.
 Flush protective clothing and SCBA with a fog spray for a minimum of one minute with
two 360 degree turns (scrub as necessary).
 Move person away from initial flush area, rinse for a minimum of one minute with one
360 degree turn.
 Move person away from secondary flush area, remove protective clothing and breathing
apparatus (apparatus face piece last).
 Move person away from contaminated clothing.
 Rinse off for one minute with one 360 degree turn.
 Have person don privacy suit and transport to an area for additional showering with
soap and water. Use comfortably cold water and leave shower doors open.
Level III-contamination is known, skin contact and/or irritation is evident.
 Position the person where water can be contained.
 Flush off with fog spray while removing protective clothing and SCBA (leave facepiece
on).
 Continue to flush for one minute after all clothing has been removed.
 Remove SCBA face piece between flush areas.
 Move person away from initial flush area, rinse for a minimum of one minute and one
360 degree turn.
 Move person away from secondary flush area.
 Continue to flush all affected and/or irritated skin areas for fifteen minutes.
 Have person don privacy suit.
 Have person transported to medical facility for further decontamination, treatment and
observation.
Decontamination Priorities
1. Decontamination of personnel takes priority over the environment and establishment of a
decontamination area.
2. Level III contamination requires immediate decontamination.
3. Providing protection to decontamination personnel takes priority over administering
immediate decontamination.

Revised: April 2016

6.5

67

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

4. All contaminated clothing and equipment is to be placed into double plastic bags and left in
the decontamination corridor.
5. Leave all equipment too large to be bagged in the Exclusion Zone (tool drop).

Revised: April 2016

6.6

68

LYON COUNTY

SECTION 7:

COMMUNICATIONS

Specific provisions should be made for accurate and efficient communication among all of the
various organizations during the response itself. This includes the use of radios, telephones,
cellular phones, satellite, and computers. A plan identifying strategic and tactical networks
among those groups performing similar functions will be established.
Channel Plan
CHANNEL NAME
Fire SC
Fire Tac
CLCFPD Gold West
CLCFPD Gold East
CLCFPD Gold Local
CLCFPD Blue West
CLCFPD Blue East
SO1 SC
SO2 SC
SO Tac
Yerington P.W
Lyon County Roads Local
Lyon County Roads Repeater
VTAC11
VFIRE21/White Fire 1
VFIRE22/White Fire 2
VFIRE23/White Fire 3
NEVCORD 1 (VMED28)
NEVCORD 2 (VMED29)
NV Emergency Management 1/EOC 1
NV Emergency Management 2/EOC 2
VLAW31/ Federal Law/Federal Law
Enforcement Mutual Aid/FLEMA
Local Law /State Law Enforcement Mutual
Aid/NLEMA
SAR/ NSAR/Search & Rescue
CALCORD

Revised: January 2026

RX
FREQUENCY
155.1000
154.400
151.0325
151.0325
151.0325
154.0475
159.1125
154.1500
159.21
154.725
154.400
153.935
153.935
151.1375
154.280
154.265
154.295
155.3400
155.3475
155.145
155.715

RX
PL
146.2
146.2
D343
D343
D343
D503
D503
146.2
146.2
146.2
CSQ
CSQ
CSQ
CSQ
CSQ
CSQ
CSQ
CSQ
CSQ
CSQ
CSQ

TX
FREQUENCY
155.92.50
154.400
156.0225
156.0225
151.0325
154.0475
159.1125
156.1500
156.1500
154.725
158.500
153.935
156.240
151.1375
154.280
154.265
154.295
155.3400
155.3475
155.145
155.715

TX
PL
79.7
146.2
D351
D306
D343
D503
D503
85.4
103.5
146.2
CSQ
CSQ
CSQ
CSQ
CSQ
CSQ
CSQ
CSQ
CSQ
CSQ
CSQ

155.475

CSQ

155.475

CSQ

155.655
155.160
156.075

CSQ
CSQ
CSQ

155.655
155.160
156.075

CSQ
CSQ
CSQ

W/N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N

N
N
N

7.1

69

70

LYON COUNTY

SECTION 8:

PUBLIC INFORMATION AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS

It is important to provide accurate information to the public concerning hazardous materials
releases. This section describes the method of distributing information to the public. The
following hazardous materials incident sample announcement formats should be used to guide
the Public Information Officer during incident reporting.
Unidentified Hazardous Materials Incident
This is the Lyon County Emergency Management in (location). An unidentified substance that
may be hazardous has been spilled/released at (location). Please avoid the area, if possible,
while crews are responding. The best alternate routes are (list routes). If you are already in the
area, please be patient and follow directions of emergency response personnel. Specially trained
personnel will evacuate the substance. Further information will be released as soon as possible.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Low Risk Hazardous Materials Incident
This is the Lyon County Emergency Management in (location). A small amount of (material), a
hazardous substance, has been spilled/released at (location). Streets are blocked, traffic is
restricted, and authorities have asked residents in the immediate area to evacuate. Please
avoid the area. The material is slightly/highly toxic to humans and can cause the following
symptoms: (symptoms).
If you think you may have come in contact with this material, you should (provide health
instructions and hotline number, if available). For your safety, please avoid the area if at all
possible. Alternate routes are (routes) and traffic is being diverted. If you are now near the
spill/release area, please follow directions of emergency response personnel. Cleanup crews
are on the scene.
High Risk Hazardous Materials Incident (Evacuation)
This is the Lyon County Emergency Management in (location). A large/small amount of
(material), a highly hazardous substance, has been spilled/released at (location). Because of
the potential health hazard, authorities are requesting/requiring all residents within (number)
blocks/miles of the area to evacuate. If you are within the (evacuation zone boundaries), you
and your family should/must leave as soon as possible/now. Go immediately to the home of a
friend or relative outside the evacuation area or to (indicate shelters). If you can drive a
neighbor who has no transportation, please do so. If you need transportation, call (provide
telephone number). Children attending the following schools: (list schools) will be evacuated
to (locations). Please do not drive to your child’s school. Pick your child up from school
authorities at the evacuation center. Listen to this station for further instructions.
The material is highly toxic to humans and can cause the following symptoms: (symptoms). If you
are experiencing any of these symptoms, seek help at a hospital outside the evacuation area, or
at the evacuation center at (location). To repeat, if you are in the area of

Revised: March 28, 2012

8.1

71

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

(location/boundaries), you should/must leave for your own safety. Do not use your telephone
unless you need emergency assistance. Thank you for your cooperation.
Hazardous Material Incident-Summary Statement
At approximately (time) a.m./p.m. today, a spill/release of a potentially hazardous substance
was reported to this office. Emergency services personnel were immediately dispatched to
cordon off the area and direct traffic.
The material was later determined to be (substance), a (hazardous/harmless)
chemical/substance/material/gas which, upon contact, may produce symptoms of (list
symptoms). Precautionary evacuation of the (location) area surrounding the spill was
(requested/required). Approximately (number) of persons were evacuated.
Clean-up crews from (agency/company) were dispatched to the scene, and normal traffic had
resumed by (time), at which time residents were allowed to return to their homes. There were
no injuries reported-OR- (number) persons, including (number) of emergency personnel, were
treated at area hospitals for (injuries/symptoms) and (all/number) were later released. Those
remaining in the hospital are in (condition) condition. Response agencies involved were (list
agencies).

Revised: March 28, 2012

8.2

72

LYON COUNTY

SECTION 9:

PERSONAL PROTECTION OF CITIZENS

Evacuation Procedure
Objective:
To reduce the potential risk of injury or death while also providing the safety of the people of
Lyon County through the process of sheltering in place, evacuation, or relocation.
Introduction
Sheltering in place is sometimes more effective than evacuation. Keeping people indoors with
the doors and windows shut and air supplies controlled is safer than moving people outdoors in
a certain hazardous environmental conditions.
Evacuation of citizens from their homes during an emergency requires the coordinated effort of
several agencies. This involves two basic activities:
1. The movement of people out of the evacuated area
2. The temporary relocation of people in shelters and mass care facilities
The Lyon County Evacuation Plan provides additional information and actions for evacuation
operations.
Primary Agencies
• Lyon County Sheriff's Office
• Lyon County Search and Rescue
Support Agencies
• Lyon County Fire Protection Districts
• Yerington Police Department
• Nevada Highway Patrol
• Lyon County Emergency Management
• American Red Cross
• Salvation Army
• Nevada Department of Transportation
• Lyon County School District
• Area Hospitals
• Voluntary Organization Active in Disaster (VOAD)
• Nevada Division of Emergency Management
• Media, including Television and Radio
• Emergency Alert System
Evacuation Checklist
1. Incident Command shall determine if evacuation is required.
2. Determine area to be evacuated or secured.
Revised: March 28, 2012

9.1

73

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

3. Determine if evacuation, relocation, or shelter in place is appropriate.
4. Determine if the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) should be activated.
5. Determine the need to activate the Emergency Alert System.
6. Notify all agencies to assist with evacuations
7. Coordinate the activation of shelters with the city, county or appropriate agency.
8. Establish traffic control and evacuation route plans.
9. Provide information to the community through the public information officer or the
broadcasting system. The following information needs to be provided:
• Which people and areas are to be evacuated?
• Where will they go?
• What will they take with them?
• What security measures are being planned?
• What special instruction should be given to special needs groups?
(Note: Plan information should be disseminated in Spanish, for the hearing and sight impaired,
for the physically disabled, and for the elderly.)
10. Make plans for access and security in the area.
11. Assign assistance to special needs groups, such as hospitals, convalescent centers, children's
homes, day care centers, the elderly, and the disabled.
12. Plan for possible redistribution of resources, such as food, medical supplies, equipment, and
fuel.
13. Plan with prisons and develop operating guidelines for correctional facilities.
Primary Evacuation Routes:
I-80
SR-208
US-50
SR-338
US-50A
SR-339
US-95A
SR-341
SR-342
SR-447

Revised: March 28, 2012

9.2

74

LYON COUNTY

Rate of Evacuation
Based on statistics taken through the Department of Transportation, Highway Patrol, and
recorded by CSTI, the evacuation rates are as follows:
1. Vehicle traffic can be estimated at 2,000 cars per hour per lane.
2. Two-way traffic should be halted and all lanes should be utilized for vehicular traffic heading
in a direction away from the evacuation area.
3. Advise where to go to if possible (schools, etc.)
NOTE: Persons ordering evacuation should consider a terminal location where evacuees would
be instructed to go, such as; schools (not in session) and large places of public assembly (i.e.,
fairgrounds, convention centers, auditoriums, etc.)
Other Public Protection Strategies for hazardous materials incidents may include the
contamination of soil or water of an area and pose a chronic threat to people living there. It may
be necessary to move people out of the area for an extended period of time until the area is
decontaminated and/or deemed environmentally safe.
1. Relocation plan
2. Water system protection
3. Sewage system protection

Revised: March 28, 2012

9.3

75

76

LYON COUNTY

SECTION 10: RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Training Programs
Hazardous Materials Response Teams
SARA Title III and OSHA mandates that all emergency personnel who respond to a hazardous
materials incident shall be trained to the level that he/she is expected to perform at the
incident. The following training standards list the minimum requirements set by OSHA
1910.120(q) for the various levels of training. We recognize NFPA 471, 472 and 473 as the
training standards that meet or exceed the minimum requirements set by OSHA.
The OSHA standard sets minimum requirements for training emergency response personnel who
may be required to respond to hazardous material incidents. These personnel are required to
complete training that is based on the duties and functions that they will perform at a hazardous
material incident. All personnel must receive training prior to being permitted to take part in
actual emergency operations at an incident involving hazardous materials. There are four
training and competency levels recognized by Lyon County:
1. First Responder Awareness
2. First Responder Operational
3. Hazardous Material Technician
4. On-Scene Incident Commander
Certification -Department Certifications as a First Responder Awareness, First Responder
Operational, Hazardous Material Technician, and On-Scene Incident Commander are issued by
the responsible agencies for their respective personnel.
•

First Responder Awareness - Emergency response personnel who are likely to witness or
discover a hazardous substance release and have been trained to initiate an emergency
response sequence by notifying the authorities of a release.

•

First Responder Operational - Emergency response personnel who will respond to the scene
of a hazardous materials release for the purpose of protecting nearby persons, property, and
the environment from the effects of the release and will perform in a primarily defensive
fashion from a safe distance will complete the 8 hour First Responder (Operational Level)
Course. First Responder Operational trained personnel may perform limited support
functions within the limited access zone if specifically trained in the function and then only
when directly under the control of qualified personnel (A more complete description can be
found in “State of Nevada Occupational Safety Health Standards For General Industry”) (29
CFR Part 1910.120 Q).

Revised: March 28, 2012

10.1

77

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

•

Hazardous Material Technician - Emergency response personnel who respond to a
hazardous materials release for the purpose of stopping the release and assume a more
aggressive role than the first responder at the operations level. They may take offensive
actions at the point of release to establish control and/or stop the release. Technicians must
complete the required classes as outlined (see NFPA 472) and successfully complete a
written and practical examination (A more complete description can be found in “State of
Nevada Occupational Safety Health Standards For General Industry”)(29 CFR Part 1910.120
Q).

•

On-Scene Incident Commander - Personnel who respond to the scene of a hazardous
materials release for the purpose of assuming the role of Incident Commander shall be
trained to the first responder operations level. In addition, they shall have completed a
hazardous materials command-specific program which meets the minimum requirement as
set forth by OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120 Q (A more complete description can be found in “State
of Nevada Occupational Safety Health Standards For General Industry”) (29 CFR Part 1910).

Re-Certification - Department certification and re-certification as a First Responder
Operational, Hazardous Material Technician, and On-Scene Incident Commander is issued by
each of the Triad agencies for their respective personnel.
•

First Responder Operational - First responder operations certified personnel shall complete
an annual refresher class based on First Responder Operational Level competencies as cited
in most current edition of NFPA 472.

•

Hazardous Material Technician - Hazardous materials technician certified personnel shall
demonstrate proficiency in all required competencies, and achieve a passing score on the
re-certification exam in January or each year to maintain their certification as cited in most
current edition of NFPA 472.

•

On-Scene Incident Commander - On-scene commander certified personnel shall, in addition
to first responder operations re-certification, complete a annual competency based
hazardous materials command module re-certification.

Documentation - All hazardous materials specific training shall be documented by the
respective training division.
Medical Training
Each agency who routinely participates in the care of victims of a hazardous materials incident
is responsible to assure adequate training for their personnel. OSHA guidelines must be
followed. Personnel training should include but not be limited to:
1. Recognition and notification of a hazardous situation and knowledge of first line response.
2. Protective equipment, supplies, and procedures.

Revised: March 28, 2012

10.2

78

LYON COUNTY

3. Handling of contaminated victims, decontamination.
4. Special medical treatment protocols.
5. Communications and interface with responders.
6. Awareness of types of hazardous materials in the community.

Revised: March 28, 2012

30.1

79

80

LYON COUNTY

SECTION 11: INCIDENT COMMAND SYSTEM
Table of Contents
Incident Command System Overview ..................................................................................... 3
Planning Process....................................................................................................................6
Command Section ................................................................................................................ 7
Incident Commander ...................................................................................................................... 7
Incident Command Review ............................................................................................................. 7
Liaison Officer ................................................................................................................................. 8
Liaison Officer Review ..................................................................................................................... 8
Information Officer ......................................................................................................................... 9
Information Officer Review............................................................................................................. 9
Safety Officer................................................................................................................................... 9
Safety Officer Review .................................................................................................................... 10
Operations Section .............................................................................................................. 11
Operations Section Chief .............................................................................................................. 11
Operations Chief Review ............................................................................................................... 11
Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor ........................................................................................ 11
Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor Review ........................................................................... 12
Entry Leader .................................................................................................................................. 12
Entry Leader Review...................................................................................................................... 12
Site Access Control Leader ............................................................................................................ 13
Site Access Control Leader Review ............................................................................................... 13
Assistant Safety Officer-Hazardous Materials .............................................................................. 14
Assistant Safety Officer-Hazardous Materials Review ................................................................. 14
Technical Specialist-Hazardous Materials Reference ...................................................................15
Technical Specialist Review .......................................................................................................... 15
Safe Refuge Area Manager ........................................................................................................... 15
Safe Refuge Area Manager Review ............................................................................................... 16
Staging Manager ........................................................................................................................... 16
Staging Area Manager Review ...................................................................................................... 16
Assisting Agencies............................................................................................................... 18
Law Enforcement .......................................................................................................................... 18
Law Enforcement Review.............................................................................................................. 18
Environmental Health Agencies ....................................................................................................18
Environmental Health Agencies Review ....................................................................................... 18
Planning Section .................................................................................................................. 20
Planning Section Chief................................................................................................................... 20
Planning Chief Review ................................................................................................................... 20
Resources Unit .............................................................................................................................. 21
Resource Unit Review ................................................................................................................... 21
Situation Unit ................................................................................................................................ 21
Situation Unit Review.................................................................................................................... 22
Documentation Unit ..................................................................................................................... 22
Documentation Unit Review ......................................................................................................... 22
Revised: March 28, 2012
11.1

81

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Logistics Section .................................................................................................................. 23
Logistics Chief ................................................................................................................................23
Logistics Chief Review ................................................................................................................... 23
Logistics Service Branch Review....................................................................................................24
Communications Unit.................................................................................................................... 24
Medical Unit .................................................................................................................................. 24
Food Unit ....................................................................................................................................... 24
Logistics Support Branch Review .................................................................................................. 25
Supply Unit ....................................................................................................................................25
Facilities Unit ................................................................................................................................. 25
Ground Support Unit ..................................................................................................................... 25
Immediate Checklist ............................................................................................................ 26

Revised: March 28, 2012

11.2

82

LYON COUNTY

Incident Command System Overview
1. Hazardous materials incidents often involve response from multiple disciplines and may
involve more than one jurisdiction. The Incident Command System (ICS), because of its
standardized organizational structure and common terminology, provides a useful and
flexible management system that is particularly adaptable to hazardous materials
incidents involving multi-jurisdictional response, both in the field and in the EOC.
2. ICS provides the flexibility to rapidly activate and establish an organizational form around
the functions that need to be performed in order to efficiently and effectively mitigate an
emergency. For this reason, ICS will be used during all hazardous materials incidents in Lyon
County.
3. ICS can be utilized for any type or size of hazardous materials emergency, ranging from a
minor incident involving only a few members of the emergency organization, to a major
incident involving several agencies and/or jurisdictions. ICS allows agencies throughout
Nevada and at all levels of government to communicate using common terminology and
operating procedures. It also allows for the timely acquisition of a combination of
resources during time of emergency.
4. ICS organizational structure develops in a modular fashion based upon the type and size of
the incident. The organization staff builds from the top down. As the need arises, five
separate sections can be developed each with several units that may be established as
needed. The specific organizational structure established for any given hazardous materials
incident will be based on the management and resource needs of the incident.
5. Incident Command System Matrix

Revised: March 28, 2012

11.3

83

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

6. A hazardous materials incident will bring together a greater number and a wider variety of
agencies. It is assumed that all hazardous materials incidents will be managed under Unified
Command principles because in virtually all cases fire, law enforcement, and public health
will have some statutory functional responsibility for incident mitigation. Depending on
incident factors, several other agencies will respond to a hazardous materials incident. The
best method for ensuring effective information flow and coordination between the
responding agencies at the scene of a multi-agency incident is to establish a Unified
Command. Each key response agency should provide a representative to remain at the
command post who will have authority to speak for and commit agency resources. The
Assisting Agencies section of this document lists some of the typical functional
responsibilities of law enforcement and health agencies.
7. The Hazardous Materials organized module is designed to provide an organized structure
that will provide necessary supervision and control for the essential functions required at
virtually all Hazardous Materials incidents. This is based on the premise that controlling the
tactical operations of companies and movement of personnel and equipment will provide
a spreading or contaminants. The primary functions will be directed by the Hazardous
Materials Group Supervisor, and all resources that have a direct involvement with the
hazardous material will be supervised by one of the functional leaders or the Hazardous
Materials Group Supervisor.

Revised: March 28, 2012

11.4

84

LYON COUNTY

Planning Process

The planning process involves the gathering of information from key areas within the system
and assembling that information into a plan. However, not all incidents require written plans.
The need for written plans and attachments is based on incident requirements and the decision
of the Incident Commander. Once the need for the plan is established, whether the plan is
written or verbal, a planning meeting is organized.
The Planning Chief needs to start collecting information from the Incident Commander and
other Section Chiefs in order to:
• Understand the current situation
• Predict probable course of incident events
• Prepare alternative strategies and control operations for the incident
Incident objectives and strategy should be established before the planning meeting. For this
purpose it may be necessary to hold a strategy meeting prior to the planning meeting. The table
below provides basic steps appropriate for use in almost any incident situation.
CHECKLIST
1. Briefing on situation and resource status
2. Set control objectives
3. Plot control lines, establish division boundaries,
identify group assignments
4. Specify tactics for each division
5. Specify resources needed by Division/Group
6. Specify Operations facilities and reporting locations Plot on map
7. Place resource and personnel order
8. Consider Communications, Medical and Traffic Plan
requirements
9. Finalize, approve and implement Incident Action Plan

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY
Planning Chief
Incident Commander
Operations Chief
Operations Chief
Operations Chief
Planning Chief
Operations Chief
Planning Chief
Logistics Chief
Logistics Chief
Planning Chief
Logistics Chief
Incident Commander
Operations Chief
Planning Chief
Logistics Chief

The Planning Process works best when the incident perimeter and proposed control lines are
divided into logical geographical units for planning purposes. The tactics and resources are then
determined for each of the planning units and then the planning units are combined into
divisions/groups utilizing span-of-control guidelines.

Revised: March 28, 2012

11.5

85

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Command Section
Incident Commander
The Incident Commander’s responsibility is the overall management of the incident. On
most incidents a single Incident Commander carries out the command activity. The Incident
Commander is selected by qualifications (29CFR1910.120) and experience.
The process of developing the IC position starts from the initial response to every incident.
The first responder on scene, by definition, assumes the role of incident commander. As the
incident progresses, the role of IC will be passed on to the next higher-ranking individual
based on qualification and experience. The role of IC may change several times in the course
of establishing an incident. (Note: The highest-ranking official is not obligated to assume the
role if the individual performing the duties is qualified and assuming the role would break
the continuity of the incident.)
TRANSFER OF COMMAND: Face to face transition is the best method of transfer. However,
transfers may be accomplished by telephone or radio as long as the briefing is thorough.
Once transfer has been made known to all personnel, the former IC will most likely assume the
role of the Operations Chief. The Operations Chief role becomes that of implementing tactics that
result from strategic decisions made between the Operations Chief and the present Incident
Commander.
The key to success is command and control. The Incident Command, alone, has responsibility
for all activities; resources and decisions made relating to the incident. Transfer of command
should be made in a manner that maintains the continuity of the incident. When command is
transferred at this level or any other level, all incident personnel should be notified. This is
typically done with a radio announcement.
Incident Command Review
1. Review Common Responsibilities.
2. Assess the situation and/or obtain a briefing from the prior Incident Commander.
3. Activate appropriate level of evacuation and response.
4. Determine Incident Objectives and strategy.
5. Establish the immediate priorities.
6. Establish an Incident Command Post.
7. Establish an appropriate organization.
8. Ensure planning meetings are scheduled as required.
Revised: March 28, 2012

11.6

86

LYON COUNTY

9. Approve and authorize the implementation of an Incident Action Plan.
10. Ensure that adequate safety measures are in place.
11. Coordinate activity for all Command and General Staff.
12. Coordinate with key people and officials.
13. Approve requests for additional resources or for the release of resources.
14. Keep agency administrator informed of incident status.
15. Approve the use of trainees, volunteers, and auxiliary personnel.
16. Authorize release of information to the news media.
17. Order the demobilization of the incident when appropriate.
Liaison Officer
Incidents that are multiple jurisdictional, or have several agencies involved, may require the
establishment of the Liaison Officer position on the Command Staff. Only one Liaison Officer
will be assigned for each incident, including incidents operating under Unified Command and
multiple jurisdiction incidents. The Liaison Officer may have assistants as necessary, and the
assistants may also represent assisting agencies or jurisdictions. The Liaison Officer is the
contact for the personnel assigned to the incident by assisting or cooperating agencies. These
are personnel other than those on direct tactical assignments or those involved in a Unified
Command. The liaison position may be used as the link between the Command Post and the
Emergency Operating Center.
Liaison Officer Review
1. Review Common Responsibilities.
2. Be a contact point for Agency Representatives.
3. Maintain a list of assisting and cooperating agencies and Agency Representatives.
4. Assist in establishing and coordinating interagency contacts.
5. Keep agencies supporting the incident aware of incident status.
6. Monitor incident operations to identify current or potential inter-organizational problems.

Revised: March 28, 2012

11.7

87

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

7. Participate in planning meetings, providing current resource status, including limitations
and capability of assisting agency resources.
Information Officer
The Information Officer is responsible for developing and releasing information about the
incident to the news media, to incident personnel, and to other appropriate agencies and
organizations.
Only one Information Officer will be assigned for each incident, including incidents operating
under Unified Command and multiple jurisdiction incidents. The Information Officer may have
assistants as necessary, and the assistants may also represent assisting agencies or jurisdictions.
Agencies have different policies and procedures relative to the handling of public
information. The following are the major responsibilities of the Information Officer, which
would generally apply on any incident:
Information Officer Review
1. Review Common Responsibilities.
2. Determine from the Incident Commander if there are any limits on information release.
3. Develop material for use in media briefings.
4. Obtain media information that may be useful to incident planning.
5. Maintain current information summaries and/or displays on the incident and provide
information on status of incident to assigned personnel.
Safety Officer
The Safety Officer’s function is to develop and recommend measures for assuring personnel
safety, and to assess and/or anticipate hazardous and unsafe situations.
Only one Safety Officer will be assigned for each incident. The Safety Officer may have
assistants as necessary, and the assistants may also represent assisting agencies or jurisdictions.
Safety assistants may have specific responsibilities such as air operations, hazardous materials,
air monitoring, etc.
Note: Even though the Safety Officer has the authority to stop any unsafe acts without prior
permission, this authority can only be exercised if there is insufficient time to take action
through the proper chain of command. The Safety Officer does not have the authority to
change tactical decisions or move resources. The Incident Commander must be notified
immediately of any emergency stop actions.

Revised: March 28, 2012

11.8

88

LYON COUNTY

Safety Officer Review
1. Review Common Responsibilities.
2. Participate in planning meetings.
3. Identify hazardous situations associated with the incident.
4. Review the Incident Action Plan for safety implications.
5. Exercise emergency authority to stop and prevent unsafe acts.
6. Investigate accidents that have occurred within the incident area.
7. Assign assistants as needed.
8. Review and approve the medical plan.
9. Develop hazardous materials site safety plan as required.

Revised: March 28, 2012

11.9

89

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Operations Section
Operations Section Chief
The Operations Section Chief, a member of the General Staff, is responsible for the
management of all operations directly applicable to the primary mission. The Operations Chief
activates and supervises organization elements in accordance with the Incident Action Plan and
directs its execution. The Operations Chief also directs the preparation of unit operational
plans, requests or releases resources, makes expedient changes to the Incident Action Plan as
necessary; and reports such to the Incident Commander.
Operations Chief Review
1. Review Common Responsibilities
2. Develop operations portion of Incident Action Plan.
3. Brief and assign operations personnel in accordance with Incident Action Plan.
4. Supervise operations.
5. Determine need and request additional resources.
6. Review suggested list of resources to be released and initiate recommendation for release
of resources.
7. Assemble and disassemble strike teams assigned to Operations Section.
8. Report information about special activities, events, and occurrences to Incident
Commander.
Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor
The Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor reports to the Operations Section Chief. The
Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor is responsible for the implementation of the phases of
the Incident Action Plan dealing with the Hazardous Materials Group operations. The
Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor is responsible for the assignment of resources within
the Hazardous Materials Group, reporting on the progress of control operations and the
status of resources within the Group. The Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor directs the
overall operations of the Hazardous Materials Group.
Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor Review
1. Review Common Responsibilities

Revised: March 28, 2012

11.10

90

LYON COUNTY

2. Ensure the development of Control Zones and Access Control Points and the placement of
appropriate control lines.
3. Evaluate and recommend public protection action options to the Operations Chief or
Branch Director (if activated).
4. Ensure that current weather data and future weather predictions are obtained.
5. Establish environmental monitoring of the hazard site for contaminants.
6. Ensure that a Site Safety Plan is developed and implemented.
7. Conduct safety meetings with the Hazardous Materials Group.
8. Participate, when requested, in the development of the Incident Action Plan.
9. Ensure that recommended safe operational procedures are followed.
10. Ensure that the proper Personal Protective Equipment is selected and used.
11. Ensure that the appropriate agencies are notified through the Incident Commander.
12. Maintain Unit/Activity Log.
Entry Leader
The Entry Leader is responsible for the overall entry operations of assigned personnel within
the Exclusion Zone, and reports to the Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor.
Entry Leader Review
1. Review Common Responsibilities
2. Supervise entry operations.
3. Recommend actions to mitigate the situation within the Exclusion Zone.
4. Carry out actions, as directed by the Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor, to mitigate the
hazardous materials release or threatened release.
5. Maintain communications and coordinate operations with the Site Access Control Leader
and the Safe Refuge Area Manager (if activated).
6. Coordinate the transfer of contaminated patients requiring medical attention (after
decontamination) to the Medical Group.

Revised: March 28, 2012

11.11

91

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

7. Coordinate handling, storage, and transfer of contaminants within the Contamination
Reduction Zone.
8. Maintain Unit/Activity Log.
Site Access Control Leader
The Site Access Control Leader is responsible for the control of the movement of all people
and equipment through appropriate access routes at the hazard site. Reports to the
Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor and ensures that contaminants are controlled and
records are maintained.
Site Access Control Leader Review
1. Review Common Responsibilities
2. Organize and supervise assigned personnel to control access to the hazard site.
3. Oversee the placement of the Exclusion Control Line and the Contamination Control Line.
4. Ensure that appropriate action is taken to prevent the spread of contamination.
5. Establish the Safe Refuge Area within the Contamination Reduction Zone. Appoint a Safe
Refuge Area Manager (as needed).
6. Ensure that injured or exposed individuals are decontaminated prior to departure from the
hazard site.
7. Track the movement of persons passing through the Contamination Control Line to ensure
that long term observations are provided.
8. Coordinate with the Medical Group for proper separation and tracking of potentially
contaminated individuals needing medical attention.
9. Maintain observations of any changes in climatic conditions or other circumstances external
to the hazard site.
10. Maintain communications and coordinate operations with the Entry Leader.
11. Maintain communications and coordinate operations with the Decontamination Leader.
12. Maintain Unit/Activity Log.

Revised: March 28, 2012

11.12

92

LYON COUNTY

Assistant Safety Officer-Hazardous Materials
Reports to the incident Safety Officer as an Assistant Safety Officer and coordinates with the
Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor (or Hazardous Materials Branch Director if activated). The
Assistant Safety Officer-Hazardous Materials coordinates safety related activities directly
relating to the Hazardous Materials Group operations as mandated by 29 CFR part 1910.120 and
applicable State and local laws. This position advises the Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor
(or Hazardous Materials Branch Director) on all aspects of health and safety and has the
authority to stop or prevent unsafe acts. It is mandatory that an Assistant Safety Officer Hazardous Materials be appointed at all hazardous materials incidents. In a multi- activity
incident the Assistant Safety Officer-Hazardous Materials does not act as the Safety Officer for
the overall incident.
Assistant Safety Officer-Hazardous Materials Review
1. Review Common Responsibilities.
2. Obtain briefing from the Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor.
3. Participate in the preparation of, and implement the Site Safety Plan.
4. Advise the Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor (or Hazardous Materials Branch Director)
of deviations from the Site Safety Plan or any dangerous situations.
5. Has authority to alter, suspend, or terminate any activity that may be judged to be unsafe.
6. Ensure the protection of the Hazardous Materials Group personnel from physical,
environmental, and chemical hazards/exposures.
7. Ensure the provision of required emergency medical services for assigned personnel and
coordinate with the Medical Unit Leader.
8. Ensure that medical related records for the Hazardous Materials Group personnel are
maintained.
9. Maintain Unit/Activity Log.
Technical Specialist-Hazardous Materials Reference
Will report to the Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor (or Hazardous Materials Branch
Director if activated) at the time of incident. This position provides technical information and
assistance to the Hazardous Materials Group using various reference sources such as computer
data bases, technical journals, CHEMTREC, and phone contact with facility representatives. The
Technical Specialist - Hazardous Materials Reference may provide product identification using
hazardous categorization tests and/or any other means of identifying unknown materials.

Revised: March 28, 2012

11.13

93

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Technical Specialist Review
1. Review Common Responsibilities.
2. Obtain briefing from the Planning Section Chief.
3. Provide technical support to the Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor.
4. Maintain communications and coordinate operations with the Entry Leader.
5. Provide and interpret environmental monitoring information.
6. Provide analysis of hazardous material sample.
7. Determine personal protective equipment compatibility to hazardous material.
8. Provide technical information of the incident for documentation.
9. Provide technical information management with public and private agencies i.e.: Poison
Control Center, Tox Center, CHEMTREC, State Department of Food and Agriculture, National
Response Team.
10. Assist Planning Section with projecting the potential environmental effects of the release.
11. Maintain Unit/Activity Log.
Safe Refuge Area Manager
The Safe Refuge Area Manager reports to the Site Access Control Leader and coordinates with
the Decontamination Leader and the Entry Leader. The Safe Refuge Area Manager is responsible
for evaluating and prioritizing victims for treatment, collecting information from the victims, and
preventing the spread of contamination by these victims. If there is a need for the Safe Refuge
Area Manager to enter the Contamination Reduction Zone in order to fulfill assigned
responsibilities then the appropriate Personnel Protective Equipment shall be worn.
Safe Refuge Area Manager Review
1. Review Common Responsibilities.
2. Establish the Safe Refuge Area within the Contamination Reduction Zone adjacent to the
Contamination Reduction Corridor and the Exclusion Control Line.
3. Monitoring the hazardous materials release to ensure that the Safe Refuge Area is not
subject to exposure.

Revised: March 28, 2012

11.14

94

LYON COUNTY

4. Assist the site Access Control Leader by ensuring the victims are evaluated for
contamination.
5. Manage the Safe Refuge Area for the holding and evaluation of victims who may have
information about the incident, or if suspected of having contamination.
6. Maintain communications with the Entry Leader to coordinate the movement of victims
from the Refuge Area(s) in the Exclusion Zone to the Safe Refuge Area.
7. Maintain communications with the Decontamination Leader to coordinate the movement
of victims from the Safe Refuge Area into the Contamination Reduction Corridor, if needed.
8. Maintain Unit/Activity Log.
Staging Manager
The Staging Area Manager is responsible for managing all activities within a Staging Area. The
Manager is responsible for the check in of all incoming resources; to dispatch resources at the
request of the Operations Chief; and to request Logistics Section support as necessary for
resources located in the Staging Area.
Staging Area Manager Review
1. Proceed to Staging Area.
2. Establish Staging Area layout.
3. Determine any support needs for equipment, feeding, sanitation and security.
4. Establish check-in function as appropriate.
5. Post areas for identification and traffic control.
6. Request maintenance service for equipment at Staging Area as appropriate.
7. Respond to request for resource assignments. (Note: This may be direct from Operations
or via the Incident Communications Center).
8. Obtain and issue receipts for radio equipment and other supplies distributed and received
at Staging Area.
9. Determine required resource levels from the Operations Section Chief.
10. Advise the Operations Section Chief when reserve levels reach minimums.
11. Maintain and provide status to Resource Unit of all resources in Staging Area.
Revised: March 28, 2012

11.15

95

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

12. Demobilize Staging Area in accordance with Incident Demobilization Plan.

Revised: March 28, 2012

11.16

96

LYON COUNTY

Assisting Agencies
Law Enforcement
The local law enforcement agency will respond to most Hazardous Materials incidents.
Depending on incident factors, law enforcement may be a partner in Unified Command or may
participate as an assisting agency. Some functional responsibilities that may be handled by law
enforcement are:
Law Enforcement Review
1. Isolate the incident area.
2. Manage crowd control.
3. Manage traffic control.
4. Manage public protective action.
5. Provide scene management for on-highway incidents.
6. Manage criminal investigations.
Environmental Health Agencies
In most cases the local or State environmental health agency will be at the scene as a partner
in Unified Command. Some functional responsibilities that may be handled by environmental
health agencies are:
Environmental Health Agencies Review
1. Determine the identity and nature of the Hazardous Materials.
2. Establish the criteria for clean-up and disposal of the Hazardous Materials.
3. Declare the site safe for re-entry by the public.
4. Provide the medical history of exposed individuals.
5. Monitor the environment.
6. Supervise the clean-up or the site.
7. Enforce various laws and acts.
8. Determine legal responsibility.

Revised: March 28, 2012

11.17

97

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

9. Provide technical advice.
10. Approve funding for the clean-up.

Revised: March 28, 2012

11.18

98

LYON COUNTY

Planning Section
Planning Section Chief
The Planning Section Chief is responsible for the gathering and analysis of all data regarding
incident operations and assigned resources, developing alternatives for tactical operations,
conducting the planning meetings, and preparing the action plan for each operational period.
The Planning Section Chief will normally be from the jurisdiction that has incident responsibility.
Under a unified command structure, the Planning Section Chief could have a deputy from one
or more of the other involved jurisdictions.
Planning Chief Review
1. Review Common Responsibilities
2. Collect and process situation information about the incident.
3. Supervise preparation of the Incident Action Plan.
4. Provide input to the Incident Commander and Operations Section Chief in preparing the
Incident Action Plan.
5. Reassign out-of-service personnel already on-site to ICS organizational positions as
appropriate.
6. Establish information requirements and reporting schedules for Planning Section units (e.g.,
Resources, Situation Units, etc.).
7. Determine need for any specialized resources in support of the incident.
8. If requested, assemble and disassemble strike teams and task forces not assigned to
operations.
9. Establish special information collection activities as necessary, e.g., weather, environmental,
toxins, etc.
10. Assemble information on alternative strategies.
11. Provide periodic predictions on incident potential.
12. Report any significant changes in incident status.
13. Compile and display incident status information.
14. Oversee preparation and implementation of Incident Demobilization Plan.

Revised: March 28, 2012

11.19

99

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

15. Incorporate plans, (e.g., Traffic, Medical, and Communications) into the Incident Action
Plan.
Resources Unit
The Resources Unit has the responsibility to make certain that all assigned personnel and resources
have checked in at the incident. It is also responsible for maintaining current status on all resources.
A status keeping system will be required which will show current location of all assigned resources,
as well as current status condition for all resources. The Resources Unit will maintain a master list
of all resources. This should include key supervisory personnel (overhead), primary resources used
in tactical operations, as well as support resources, transportation equipment, etc.
Resource Unit Review
1. Review Common Responsibilities
2. Establish check-in function at incident locations.
3. Prepare Organization Assignment List and Organization Chart
4. Prepare appropriate parts of Division Assignment Lists
5. Prepare and maintain the Command Post display to include organization chart and resource
allocation and deployment.
6. Maintain and post the current status and location of all resources.
7. Maintain master roster of all resources checked in at the incident.
Situation Unit
The Situation Unit is responsible for collecting, processing and organizing situation information,
preparing situation summaries, and developing projections and forecasts of future events related
to the incident.
The Situation Unit will prepare maps and intelligence information
for use in the action plan.
The Situation Unit may also require expertise in the form of technical specialists.
Situation Unit Review
1. Review Common Responsibilities
2. Begin collection and analysis of incident data as soon as possible.

Revised: March 28, 2012

11.20

100

LYON COUNTY

3. Prepare, post, or disseminate resource and situation status information as required,
including special requests.
4. Prepare periodic predictions or as requested.
5. Provide photographic services and maps if required.
Documentation Unit
The Documentation Unit is responsible for maintaining accurate and complete incident files;
providing duplication services to incident personnel; and, for filing, maintaining, and storing
incident files for legal, analytical, and historical purposes.
The Documentation Unit is maintained within the Planning Section primarily because that Unit
has a major responsibility toward the preparation of the Incident Action Plan, as well as
maintaining files on many records which are developed as part of the overall Command Post
and planning function.
Documentation Unit Review
1. Review Common Responsibilities
2. Set up work area; begin organization of incident files.
3. Establish duplication service; respond to requests.
4. File all official forms and reports.
5. Review records for accuracy and completeness; inform appropriate units of errors or
omissions.
6. Provide incident documentation as requested.
7. Store files for post-incident use.

Revised: March 28, 2012

11.21

101

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Logistics Section
Logistics Chief
The Logistics Section is responsible for providing all support needs to the incident (except air).
The Logistics Section would order all resources from off-incident locations. It would also provide
facilities, transportation, supplies, equipment maintenance and fueling, feeding,
communications, and medical services.
The Logistics Section Chief, a member of the General Staff, is responsible for providing
facilities, services, and material in support of the incident. The Section Chief participates in
development and implementation of the Incident Action Plan and activates and supervises
the Branches and Units within the Logistics Section.
Logistics Chief Review
1. Plan organization of Logistics Section.
2. Assign work locations and preliminary work tasks to Section personnel.
3. Notify Resources Unit of Logistics Section units activated including names and locations of
assigned personnel.
4. Participate in preparation of Incident Action Plan.
5. Identify service and support requirements for planned and expected operations.
6. Provide input to and review Communications Plan, Medical Plan, and Traffic Plan.
7. Coordinate and process requests for additional resources.
8. Review Incident Action Plan and estimate Section needs for next operational period.
9. Advise on current service and support capabilities.
10. Prepare service and support elements of the Incident Action Plan.
11. Ensure general welfare and safety of Logistics Section personnel.

Revised: March 28, 2012

11.22

102

LYON COUNTY

Logistics Service Branch Review
Communications Unit
1. Developing plans to make the most effective use of incident assigned communication
equipment and facilities
2. The installation and testing of all communication equipment; supervision and operation of the
Incident Communications Center
3. Distribution and recovery of equipment assigned to incident personnel; and, the maintenance
and on-site repair of communication equipment.
Medical Unit
1. Developing the Incident Medical Plan.
2. Developing procedures for handling any major medical emergency involving incident
personnel.
3. Providing medical aid and transportation for incident assigned injured or ill personnel.
4. Assisting in the processing of all work-related injuries or deaths of incident assigned personnel.
Food Unit
1. Determine food and water requirements
2. Determine facility requirements for feeding
3. Obtain necessary equipment and supplies and establish cooking facility.
4. Maintain an inventory of food and water
Logistics Support Branch Review
Supply Unit
1. Determine type and amount of supplies en route.
2. Review Incident Action Plan for supply needs.
3. Order, receive, distribute and store all incident-related resources, personnel, and supplies.
4. Maintain inventory of supplies and equipment.
Facilities Unit
1. Determine requirements for each facility.
2. Determine location of each facility
Revised: March 28, 2012

11.23

103

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

3. Prepare layouts of incident facilities.
4. Activate incident facilities.
5. Provide maintenance and services for all facilities.
Ground Support Unit
1. Provide maintenance and repair of primary tactical equipment, vehicles, and mobile ground
support equipment.
2. Provide fueling of all mobile equipment.
3. Providing of transportation services in support of incident operations (except air).
4. Implement the Incident Traffic Plan.

Revised: March 28, 2012

11.24

104

LYON COUNTY

Immediate Checklist
Perform the following steps upon activation of the emergency response system.
 Determine your assignment (IC-OPS-PLANS- LOGS-etc.)
 Obtain situation briefing
 Open command packet for your assignment
 Put on the vest matching your assignment
 Review job descriptions
 Report to your assigned location
 Begin Action Checklist

Revised: March 28, 2012

11.25

105

106

LYON COUNTY

SECTION 12: HAZARDOUS MATERIALS MEDIAL PLAN
TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION ................................................................................... 3
Overview of Agency Responsibilities .............................................................................................. 3
Activation ........................................................................................................................................ 4
Treatment ....................................................................................................................................... 4
PREHOSPITAL OPERATIONS .................................................................................................. 5
Lyon Dispatch .................................................................................................................................. 5
First On Scene and Scene Safety ..................................................................................................... 5
Incident Command System (ICS) ..................................................................................................... 6
Medical Group Supervisor/Branch Director Responsibilities ........................................................ 6
Hazmat Team Support Services ......................................................................................................7
Perimeters...................................................................................................................................... 7
Victim Triage and Patient Care .......................................................................................................7
Decontamination ............................................................................................................................ 7
Preparation for Patients and Ambulances for Transport................................................................ 8
Scene-To-Hospital Communications ............................................................................................... 8
Decontamination of Personnel, Equipment and Vehicles ..............................................................8
Corpses ..........................................................................................................................................
8
Patient Valuables On Scene ............................................................................................................ 8
Use Of Helicopters .......................................................................................................................... 9
HOSPITAL EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT OPERATIONS.............................................................. 9
Notification ..................................................................................................................................... 9
Walk-ins .......................................................................................................................................... 9
Emergency Department Preparation .............................................................................................. 9
Patient Valuables in the Emergency Department........................................................................ 10
TRAINING ........................................................................................................................... 10
HAZARDOUS MATERIAL SPILL EMERGENCY INFORMATION FORM ........................................ 11
INSTRUCTIONS FOR HAZARDOUS MATERIAL SPILL .............................................................. 12
HAZMAT AMA FORM TEMPLATE ......................................................................................... 15

Revised: April 2016

12.1

107

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Hazardous Materials Medical Plan
Introduction
This Annex identifies special considerations for medical responders providing care to victims of
a hazardous materials incident. Primary consideration is given to establishing a communication
network to keep each participating agency informed about the hazardous materials and their
nature; to implementing appropriate safeguards and procedures as indicated in the presence of
hazardous materials and to effectively interface activities of medical personnel to ensure
maximal safety. If a hazardous material incident results in only a few victims, this document can
stand alone from a planning and guidelines approach. If it is determined there are multiple
injured victims; a Multiple Casualty Incident Plan may be activated.
Under Section 323 of SARA TITLE III, in a medical emergency, an owner or operator of a facility is
required to provide to the patient’s physician or nurse information about on site chemicals to
treat a medical emergency, even if the information is proprietary in nature.
Overview of Agency Responsibilities
The following are primary agency responsibilities as related to a Hazardous Material Incident:
1. Responding Fire Departments/Hazardous Materials Response Team mitigate hazardous
material releases; establish incident control and safety zones; oversee rescue and
decontamination adequate to be able to provide safe transportation and treatment of
victims and incident personnel, equipment and vehicles; communicate chemical
identification, medical care, safety and other information to the Medical Branch Director to
complete the Hazardous Spill Emergency Information Form (see Appendices).
2. Lyon Medical Dispatch is the major communication link to keep medical personnel on and
off scene informed, and as they receive more information will relay the identity, nature, and
special health and treatment information regarding the hazardous materials involved.
3. Responding Ambulance Providers provide triage, treatment and transport of
decontaminated patients, fill ICS medical branch positions, and provide medical support
services to the Hazardous Materials team members.
4. Receiving Medical Facilities prepare to receive patients exposed to hazardous materials
either transported from the scene that may require secondary decontamination or primary
decontamination for walk-in patients, provide an agency representative to the scene as
appropriate or when requested, implement safeguards and protective procedures; and
provide follow-up health information to patients if available. The primary method of hospital
to scene communication is for the hospital to contact Medical Dispatch who will coordinate
medical information through the Medical Branch Director.
5. Social Services/Red Cross arranges and manages evacuation/relocation shelters.

Revised: April 2016

12.2

108

LYON COUNTY

They may contact the Incident Commander or Medical Branch Director for information on
symptoms and treatment regarding the hazardous materials to which shelter victims may have
been exposed.
All participating agencies are responsible for all record keeping of medical operations and
extraordinary associated costs during the incident to participate in critiques and potential
recapture of incident costs.
Activation
The 911 centers routinely make notifications of hazardous material spills in our community as
ambulances respond to provide back-up Advanced Life Support Ambulance service to the
responding fire agencies to meet OSHA requirements, or is contacted to provide transport if
victims are ill or injured. The 911 Centers also provide notification of hazardous material spills
to multiple other agencies. The 911 Centers will supply and update ALS services with information
such as the type of hazardous material (solid, liquid or gas), properties such as flammable,
explosive, etc., if materials burning, the potential number of people exposed or injured, the
location and identity of the Incident Commander, the location of staging or patient loading
areas, ingress and egress information, the best upwind route, etc.
Treatment
Currently no specific agency has been assigned the sole responsibility of coordinating all
treatment information. The Portland Regional Poison Control Center (328-4129), the Agency for
Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) (1-404-639-0615) and CHEMTREC (1-800- 4249300) all have 24-hour numbers as noted. The Regional Poison Control Center and ATSDR have a
Ph.D. and medical toxicologist on call for advice on a 24-hour basis. CHEMTREC provides MSDS
information from their broad database and can also link callers to physicians working with the
San Francisco Regional Poison Control Center for medical treatment information.
All of the acute care hospitals have a copy of ATSDR’s “Managing Hazardous Materials Incidents,
Medical Management Guidelines for Acute Chemical Exposure, Volume III.” The guidelines
contain 27 chemical specific (plus an unknown chemical) protocols. These protocols provide
information on chemical description, acute and chronic health effects, pre-hospital management
(including triage, decon, PPE, etc.), Emergency Department management and patient
information (discharge instructions).
Some of the antidotes that may be needed for patients are not routinely carried or are carried
in only minimal amounts on ambulances. Therefore, early antidote identification and
procurement by medical facilities is a prime consideration.

Revised: April 2016

12.3

109

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

PREHOSPITAL OPERATIONS
Lyon Dispatch
Lyon Dispatch dispatches ambulances, and when known, advises them of safe access routes,
the type of hazardous materials, the number of people exposed or injured, the ambulance
staging area for patient loading, the location and identity of the Incident Commander, and any
information they have on the type or properties of the chemicals involved.
It is critical for Lyon Dispatch to advise the hospitals when the incident is terminated and/or all
patients have been transported because of the staff and equipment the hospitals commit to
provide decontamination.
First on Scene and Scene Safety
1. Before approaching any scene, look for signs of a hazardous material. Never assume any
spilled material is safe. Use precautions and know limitations.
2. All persons involved in the incident must act to "isolate" the incident, i.e., minimize the
number of persons involved, provide relief teams, minimize time on the scene, secure the
area, and use safe techniques.
3. The first in unit will, after identifying a hazardous materials incident, review HAZMAT
Resources for initial response guidelines and perimeter control. The appropriate fire
jurisdiction will be advised, and ambulance personnel will remain behind the recommended
perimeter until the fire department arrives on scene and determines the scene is safe.
4. If the incident meets MCIP activation criteria, the first in fire or ambulance personnel shall
alert Lyon Dispatch. When the first arriving ambulance gets to the scene, they shall consult
with the Incident Commander and confirm the MCI with Lyon Dispatch.
5. Try to identify substances only from a safe distance.
6. Wait for fire services to get to the scene before making an attempt to care for any victims
within the exclusion zone.
Incident Command System (ICS)
The Incident Commander and Safety Officer have the critical responsibility to assure that the
appropriate decontamination, personal protective equipment (PPE) and treatment information
is provided both to scene personnel and off scene agencies that will receive patients or
contaminated incident personnel. They are also responsible for insuring that shelter managers
receive information on monitoring evacuees for potential symptoms, and that hospitals are
notified of the final chemical identification, which is sometimes hours or days after the
incident, occurs.

Revised: April 2016

12.4

110

LYON COUNTY

On-scene decontamination of all victims and resources is a top priority. In all instances, clear
risk information must be provided to the ambulance personnel so precautions and correct
transport decisions can be carried out.
The Hazardous Materials Response Team will provide triage information during the
decontamination of the victim(s) to the Medical Branch personnel.
Medical Group Supervisor/Branch Director Responsibilities
This is only a partial list specific to hazardous materials incidents, which include but is not
limited to:
1. The Medical Branch Director will assume overall medical responsibilities after being briefed
and assigned by the Incident Commander. He will also obtain an update from scene medical
personnel.
2. Integrate and coordinate emergency medical services with HAZMAT team;
3. Coordinate medical treatment information for victims and incident personnel.
4. Coordinate and implement monitoring of exclusion and contamination reduction zone
personnel. This will be done from the support zone.
5. Coordinate ambulance staging areas with Safety Officer and Operations Chief.
6. Arrange for immediate turnaround of ambulances at hospitals. Units will be designated as
primary transport units that must return to the incident site for further transport
assignments to insure minimal contamination of limited transport resources.
7. Consider the safety of responding air ambulance units and their staging areas.
8. Obtain protective clothing and equipment for medical personnel, as needed and available.
9. Maintain close liaison with safety officer to update medical personnel regarding scene
safety issues.
10. Consider utilizing hospital base stations and other sources such as the Regional Poison
Control Center, ATSDR, etc. as a resource for information regarding decontamination and
treatment, and alert Churchill Dispatch immediately of any potential for receiving victims.
11. Utilize on-scene hospital representatives if present for scene-to-hospital updates on
pertinent chemical identification, treatment and decontamination information, and inform
REMSA Dispatch of the identity of the hospital representative and their role.
12. After completion of medical operations, coordinate decontamination of ground and air
ambulances with the Incident Commander and the Hazmat Team.
Revised: April 2016

12.5

111

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Hazmat Team Support Services
Prime risks for HAZMAT team entry members are heat related injuries and dehydration which
may require initiation of fluid replacement as soon as possible after the decontamination
process. Another risk is hypoxia if oxygen supplies are depleted before decontamination. The
Team may have its own Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) regarding medical monitoring.
Perimeters
All ambulances will first report to the access control point at the scene. If an access control
point has not been assigned, they will report to the area designated by Incident Command.
Ambulance and triage areas must be established far enough from the incident to minimize risk
to people and resources. Ambulances and responding medical personnel will remain behind the
Limited Access (Warm) Zone in the Support Zone.
Victim Triage and Patient Care
Each ambulance service should develop hazardous material treatment protocols approved by
their medical director.
Decontamination
It is critical for the hospitals to be able to identify quickly and accurately for each patient the
method and level of decontamination utilized by the fire departments at the scene. This plan
strongly recommends the fire departments and Regional Hazmat Team utilize a clearly
identifiable “tagging” method for this purpose. The prehospital and hospital record should
contain information on the decontamination methods used in the field and in the hospital.
Decontamination does not end after all patients have been transported. The Incident
Commander is responsible for insuring all resources used at the scene are evaluated for the
need for decontamination. This includes ambulances, buses, equipment, etc.
Preparation for Patients and Ambulances for Transport
Any victim of a hazardous materials incident must be considered to be contaminated until
proven otherwise. Consequently, a potential exists for ambulances and receiving facilities to
become contaminated. Appropriate protective equipment and procedures must be utilized at all
times.
Decide which specific ground units will be used as transportation vehicles. Obtain information
on how to transport patients with minimum risk to EMS personnel. This might include specialized
transporting precautions and equipment.

Revised: April 2016

12.6

112

LYON COUNTY

Transport decontaminated patients to designated, alerted hospitals in a safe and expedient
manner to the pre-designated hospital entrance.
Scene-To-Hospital Communications
Ongoing, updated communications are essential between the on-the-scene medical personnel,
Lyon County Dispatch, and the hospital(s) to provide as much advance information as possible,
including number of contaminated and non-contaminated victims, type of contact, and
hazardous material identification.
Decontamination of Personnel, Equipment and Vehicles
As medical units are no longer involved in the incident, contact the Incident Commander to
have personnel, vehicles and equipment inspected to determine if decontamination is required.
If contamination is known or suspected, agencies will commence decontamination of medical
personnel, vehicles, and equipment before leaving the scene.
Corpses
Corpse removal and custody is the responsibility of the Coroner. The Coroner should be
notified of any deceased on scene. The Coroner will coordinate removal of the deceased from
the exclusion zone and decontamination with the Fire Department.
Patient Valuables on Scene
Valuables belonging to patients who have been decontaminated are to be left on scene, and
are the responsibility of the Incident Commander. They are to be viewed as potential
hazardous waste.
Use Of Helicopters
Extreme caution should be used when considering requesting a helicopter to a hazardous
material spill. If the material is a gas, the substance can pose an unreasonable threat to life,
health, or property if the aircraft flies through or near a danger zone, especially if the rotor
wash penetrates the exclusion zone.
The helicopter rotor wash down draft could theoretically spread the danger zone of gaseous
toxic materials. If the aircraft is utilized, the helicopter should always approach and stay on the
upwind side of the danger zone.
Consideration needs to be given to accidents from Hazmat impaired pilots and from
mechanically impaired aircraft engines. If the helicopter is needed:
1. Keep the pilot well informed as to wind direction and the specific location of the
exclusion zone.
Revised: April 2016

12.7

113

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

2. Land the aircraft near the support zone.
3. If necessary, have ground ambulance transport a well-decontaminated patient to the
aircraft.
HOSPITAL EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT OPERATIONS
Notification
Advance notification of the hospitals in a hazardous materials incident is even more critical than
in an MCI because of the lead-time needed for hospital decontamination setup and obtaining
treatment information. If available, medical dispatch will fax MSDS sheets to the ER Doctors.
The hospital is responsible to notify medical dispatch of current fax numbers.
Walk-ins
ATSDR’s guidelines are used by the hospitals for PPE and decon decisions.
Emergency Department Preparation
Each hospital has their own protocols regarding preparations to receive patients requiring
primary or secondary decontamination.
Patient Valuables in the Emergency Department
The hospital will consult with District Health Department Hazardous Materials staff on the
decontamination of any walk-in patient’s valuables. Valuables will not be returned to patients
without first being evaluated for the need for decontamination. All patient valuables are to be
considered potential hazardous waste until a determination is made.
TRAINING
Each agency routinely participating in the care of victims of a hazardous materials incident is
responsible to assure adequate training of their personnel. OSHA guidelines must be followed.
Personnel training should include but not be limited to:
1. Recognition and notification of a hazardous or potentially hazardous situation and
knowledge of first line response.
2. Protective equipment, supplies, and procedures.
3. Handling of contaminated victims, decontamination.
4. Special medical treatment protocols.
5. Communications and interface with all responders.

Revised: April 2016

12.8

114

LYON COUNTY

6. Awareness of types of hazardous materials in the community.
Periodic retraining of personnel and mock drills are to be scheduled at least annually.

Revised: April 2016

12.9

115

116

LYON COUNTY

SECTION 13: HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE GLOSSARY OF STANDARDIZED
TERMS
The purpose of this glossary is to provide common and readily understandable definitions to
facilitate communications and operations among emergency responders when dealing with
hazardous materials incidents. This glossary is not intended as a legal or scientific reference.
Abatement - The actions taken to reduce the amount, degree, or intensity of the release or
threatened release of a hazardous material.
Absorbent Material - A material designed to pick up and hold liquid hazardous material 0
prevent contamination spread.
Absorption - 1. The process of absorbing or “picking up” a liquid hazardous material to prevent
enlargement of the contaminated area. 2. Movement of a toxicant into the circulatory system
by oral, dermal, or inhalation exposure.
Acceptable Risk - A risk judged to be outweighed by corresponding benefits or one that is of such
a degree that it is considered to pose minimal potential for adverse effects.
Access Control Point - The point of entry and exit which regulates traffic to and from control
zones.
ACGIH - See American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists.
Acid - A hydrogen-containing corrosive material that reacts with water to produce hydrogen
ions; a proton donor.
Acute - Severe but of short duration. Acute health effects are those that occur immediately after
exposure to hazardous chemicals.
Acute Effect - An adverse action on a human or animal. Generally after a single significant
exposure, which may be mild or severe (see Chronic Effect).
Acute Exposure - Exposure that is short in duration.
Acute Release - Release of a hazardous material that is short in duration.
Acute Toxicity – Any harmful effect produced by a single short-term exposure that may result
in severe biological harm or death.
Acutely Toxic Chemicals – Chemicals that cause severe short- and long-term health effects
after a single, brief exposure (short duration). These chemicals (when ingested, inhaled, or
absorbed through the skin) can cause living tissue impairment of the central nervous system,
severe illness, or, in extreme cases, death.
Revised: April 2016

13.1

117

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Adjuvant - A substance used in pesticide formulation to aid its action (also used in the
manufacture of drugs).
Administering Agency - The designated unit of a county or city tasked to administer the local
implementation of the state and federal hazardous material emergency planning and
community right-to-know programs.
Adsorption - The process of adhering to a surface.
Aerosols - Liquid droplets or solid panicles dispersed in air, that are of fine enough panicle size
(0.01 to 100 microns) to remain dispersed for a period of time.
After-Action Report – A post-incident analysis report generated by a responsible party or
responding agency after termination of a hazardous material incident describing actions taken,
materials involved, lessons learned, etc.
Agency-Specific Plan - An emergency plan written by and addressing an individual agency's
response actions, capabilities and resources.
AIHA - See American Industrial Hygiene Association
Airborne Pollutants - Contaminants that are carried/ released into the atmosphere or air.
Air Modeling - Mathematical models used to predict movement and concentrations of
chemicals in the atmosphere.
Air Monitoring - To measure, record, and/or detect pollutants in ambient air.
Air Purifying Respirators (4PRs) - Personal Protective Equipment; a breathing mask with specific
chemical cartridges designed to either filter particulates or absorb contaminants before they
enter the worker's breathing zone. They are intended to be used only in atmospheres where the
chemical hazards and concentrations are known.
Air Purifying Respirator (Powered) - An APR with a portable motor to force air through the
filtering/purifying cartridges for use only in atmospheres where the chemical hazards and
concentrations are known.
Air Quality Management District (AQMD) - A local regional air pollution agency responsible for
regulation and monitoring of air quality.
Alkali - A hydroxide containing (-OH) corrosive material which is soluble in water, neutralizes
acids, and is irritating or destructive to tissue.
Ambient Air Quality - Quality of the surrounding atmosphere or circulating air.
Revised: April 2016

13.2

118

LYON COUNTY

American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGITI) - A professional society
of persons responsible for full-time industrial hygiene programs, who are employed by official
governmental units Its primary function is to encourage the interchange of experience among
governmental industrial hygienists, and to collect and make available information of value to
then ACGIH promotes standards and techniques in industrial hygiene and coordinates
governmental activities with community agencies.
American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) - An organization of professionals trained in
the recognition and control of health hazards and the prevention of illness related thereto. It
promotes the study and control of environmental factors affecting the health of industrial
workers, and provides information and communication services pertaining to industrial
hygiene.
American National Standards Institute (ANSI) - The Institute serves as a clearing house for
nationally coordinated voluntary safety engineering, and industrial standards developed by
industrial firms, trade associations, technical societies, consumer organizations and government
agencies.
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) – The society establishes voluntary
consensus standards for materials, products, systems and services. Sponsors research projects,
develops standard test methods, specifications and recommended practices now in use.
Anhydrous - Free from water; dry.
Area Plan – A document established to facilitate emergency response to a release or threatened
release of a hazardous material within a city or county (California Health and Safety Code,
Section 25503, Chapter 6.95).
Asbestos - A silicate of calcium or magnesium mineral, the friable form occurring in thread-like
fibers; non-combustible and a nonconductor of electricity; a known carcinogen.
Asphyxiant – A vapor or gas which can cause unconscious or death by suffocation (lack of
oxygen).
Assessment - The process of determining the nature and degree of hazard of a hazardous
material or hazardous materials incident.
Assisting Agency - Any agency that assists the agency having jurisdiction at the scene of a
hazardous materials incident by providing a service or support not within the immediate
responsibility or capability of the agency having jurisdiction.
Association of American Pesticide Control Officials, Inc - This association consists of officials
charged by law with active execution of the laws regulating the sale of economic poisons, and
of deputies designated by these officials employed by state, federal, territorial, or dominion
agencies.
Revised: April 2016

13.3

119

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Association of American Railroads (AAR) - A central coordinating and research agency of the
American railway industry.
Base (Chemical) - A hydroxide containing corrosive material that when in a water solution is
bitter, irritating, or caustic to the skin.
Base (ICS) - Location at which additional equipment, apparatus, and personnel are assembled
for primary support of activities at the incident scene. The command post may be located at
the base.
Bioassay - Determination of the relative strength and toxicity of a substance (such as a drug) by
comparing its effect on a test organism with that of a standard preparation.
Bio-Accumulation - Absorption and storage of toxic chemicals from the environment in an
organism usually in body fat.
Biohazard - Infectious agents presenting a risk or potential risk to living organisms, either
directly through infection or indirectly through disruption of the environment.
Biohazard Area - Any area in which work has been, or is being performed, with infections
agents a materials.
Biological Agents - Biological materials that are capable of causing acute or long term damage
to living organisms.
Biological Half-Life - The time required for a living organism to eliminate half of a substance
which it takes in.
Biological Treatment - A process by which waste is rendered less hazardous, or is reduced in
volume, by relying on the action of microorganisms
Blasting Agent - A material designed for blasting which has been tested and found to be so
insensitive that there is very little probability of accidental initiation to explosion or transition
from deflagration to detonation.
Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion (BLEVE) - A container failure with a release of energy,
often rapidly and violently, which is accompanied by a release of gas to the atmosphere and
propulsion of the container or container pieces due to an overpressure rupture.
Boom - A floating physical barrier serving as a continuous obstruction to the spread of a
contaminant.
Bootie - A sock like over-boot protector worn to minimize contamination.

Revised: April 2016

13.4

120

LYON COUNTY

Breakthrough Time – The elapsed time between initial contact of the hazardous chemical with
the outside surface of a barrier, such as protective clothing material, and the time at which the
chemical can be detected at the inside surface of the material.
Breathing Zone Air Sample - A sample collected in the breathing area of a worker to assess
exposure to airborne contaminants.
Buddy System - A system of organizing employees into work groups in such a manner that each
employee of the work group is designated to be observed by at least one other employee in the
work group.
Buffer Zone - The area of land that surrounds a hazardous waste facility on which certain usages
and activities are restricted to protect the public health and safety, and the environment from
existing or potential hazards caused by the migration of hazardous waste.
Bureau Of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) - The federal agency that enforces and
administers firearms and explosive laws as well as those covering the production, use and
distribution of alcohol and tobacco products.
Business Plan – A written plan and inventory developed by a business for each facility, site, or
branch that provides emergency response guidelines for a release of hazardous materials
meeting the requirements of Health and Safety Code Section 25504.
Carboy - A container, usually encased in a protective basket or crate, used to ship hazardous
materials, particularly corrosives.
Carcinogen - An agent that produces or is suspected of producing cancer.
Cascade System - Several air cylinders attached in series to fill Self-Contained Breathing
Apparatus (SCBA) bottles.
Catastrophic Incident - An event that significantly exceeds the resources of a jurisdiction.
Cease and Desist Order- Legal direction to stop any and all activities.
Celsius (Centigrade) °C - The internationally used scale for measuring temperature, in which
1OO° is the boiling point of water at sea level (1 atmosphere), and O° is the freezing point.
Center for Disease Control (CDC) - The federally-funded research organization tasked with
disease control and research.
CERCLA Hazardous Substance (Reportable Quantity Chemicals) – A Superfund Hazardous
Substance listed in Table 302.4 of 40 CFR Part 302.4 which subjects facilities to CERCLA and Title
III release notification. See “Reportable Quantity.”

Revised: April 2016

13.5

121

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

CFR - 1. Crash, Fire, Rescue personnel trained in aircraft fire fighting and rescue. 2. Code of
Federal Regulations; enforced by federal and state agencies and contain statutes for the
function of federal government.
CGA - See Compressed Gas Association.
Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) Number - A numbering system assigned by the American
Chemical Society often used by local and state hazardous materials compliance legislation for
tracking chemicals in the workplace and in the community.
Chemical Hazards Response Information System Hazard Assessment Computer System
(CHRIS/HACS) - Developed by the Coast Guard, HACS is a computerized model of the CHRIS
manuals (containing chemical-specific data), and is used by federal on-scene coordinators
during a chemical spill response.
Chemical Manufacturer - An employer with a workplace where chemical(s) are produced for
use or distribution.
Chemical Manufacturers Association – The parent organization of operates CHEMTREC.
Chemical Name - Scientific designation of a chemical in accordance with the nomenclature
system developed by the international Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) or the
Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) rules of nomenclature, or a name which will clearly identify
the chemical for the purpose of conducting a hazard evaluation.
Chemical Protective Clothing Material - Any material or combination of materials used in an
item of clothing for the purpose of isolating parts of the wearer's body from contact with a
hazardous chemical.
Chemical Protective Suit - Single or multi-piece garment constructed of chemical protective
clothing materials designed and configured to protect the wearer's torso, head, arms, legs,
hands, and feet.
Chemical Resistance - The ability to resist chemical attack. The attack is dependent on the
method of test and its severity is measured by determining the changes in physical properties.
Time, temperature, stress, and reagent may all be factors that affect the chemical resistance of
a material.
Chemical Resistant Materials - Materials that are specifically designed to inhibit or resist the
passage of chemicals into and through the material by the processes of penetration,
permeation or degradation.
Chemical Transportation Emergency Center (CHEMTREC) - The Chemical Transportation
Center, operated by the Chemical Manufacturers Association (CMA), can provide information
and technical assistance to emergency responders.
Revised: April 2016

13.6

122

LYON COUNTY

Chemnet – A mutual aid network of chemical shippers and contractors. It is activated when a
member shipper cannot respond promptly to an incident involving chemicals (contact is made
through CHEMTREC).
CHLOREP - The chlorine emergency plan, established by the Chlorine Institute, enables the
nearest producer of chlorine to respond to an incident involving chlorine (contact is made
through CHEMTREC)
Chlorine Kits – Standardized kits commercially manufactured by contract with the Chlorine
Institute to provide equipment to control or stop leaks in chlorine cylinders, tanks, and
transportation tank cars.
Chronic - Of long duration or having frequent recurrence. Chronic health effects are those that
become apparent or continue for some time after exposure to hazardous chemicals.
Chronic Effect – Delayed or slowly developing harm resulting from a chemical exposure which is
often hard to recognize.
Clandestine Laboratory - An operation consisting of a sufficient combination of apparatus and
chemicals that either have been or could be used in the illegal manufacture/synthesis of
controlled substances.
Clean Air Act - A set of national standards for ambient air quality which defines the principal
types and levels of pollution that should not be exceeded. This law requires states to develop
"state implementation plans" for achieving the ambient air standards in each air quality control
region in the state.
Cleanup - Incident scene activities directed toward removing hazardous materials,
contamination, debris, damaged containers, tools, din, water, and road surfaces in accordance
with proper and legal standards, and returning the site to as near a normal state as existed prior
to the incident.
Cleanup Company (Hazardous Waste) - A commercial business entity available for hire to
specifically remove, transport and/or dispose of hazardous wastes; and when appropriate, must
meet Nevada Division of Environmental Protection requirements.
Cleanup Operation - An operation where hazardous substances are removed, contained,
incinerated, neutralized, stabilized, cleaned up, or in any other manner processed or handled
with the ultimate goal of making the site safer for people or the environment.
Clean Water Act (CWA) - Federal legislation to protect the nation's water and set state water
quality standards for interstate navigable waters as the basis for pollution control and
enforcement. The main objective is to restore and maintain the chemical, physical and
biological integrity of the nation's waters.

Revised: April 2016

13.7

123

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Cold Zone (Support Zone) - The area outside of the contamination reduction zone (warm zone).
Equipment and personnel are not expected to become contaminated in this area. This is the area
where resources are assembled to support the hazardous materials operation.
Colorimetric Tubes – Glass tubes containing a chemically treated substrate that reacts with
specific airborne chemicals to produce a distinctive color. The tubes are calibrated to indicate
approximate concentrations in air.
Combined Liquid Waste Sampler (Coliwassa) - A tool designed to provide stratified sampling
of a liquid container.
Combustibility - The ability of a substance to undergo rapid chemical combination with oxygen,
with the evolution of heat.
Combustible Liquid - Liquids with a flash point above 1OO°F
Combustion Product - By-products produced or generated during the burning or oxidation of a
fuel.
Command - The act of directing, ordering and/or controlling resources by virtue of explicit legal,
agency, or delegated authority.
Command Post - The location from which all incident operations are directed and planning
functions are performed. The communications center is often incorporated into the command
post.
Community Awareness and Emergency Response (CAER) - A program developed by the
Chemical Manufacturers Association (CMA) to provide guidance for chemical plant managers to
assist them in taking the initiative in cooperating with local communities developing integrated
hazardous materials response plans.
Community Emergency Coordinator - A person appointed for the local emergency planning
committee (pursuant to SARA), who makes determinations necessary to implement plans, and
who receives official emergency notification of releases.
Community Right-to-Know - Legislation requiring business establishments to provide chemical
inventory information to local agencies or the public.
Company (Fire Usage) - Any piece of fire response equipment having a full complement of
personnel.
Compatibility - The matching of protective chemical clothing to the hazardous material
involved to provide the best protection for the worker.
Compatibility Charts - Permeation and penetration data supplied by manufacturers of chemical
protective clothing to indicate chemical resistance and breakthrough time of various garment
Revised: April 2016

13.8

124

LYON COUNTY

materials as tested against a battery of chemicals. This test data should be in accordance with
ASTM and NFPA standards.
Comprehensive Cooperative Agreement (CCA) - For each state, a single budgetary vehicle for
applying for and receiving financial assistance for several discrete FEMA-administered
programs. Negotiated separately for
each State via FEMA Regional offices. Mechanism for
distribution of Title III training grants.
Comprehensive Emergency Management (CEM) - An integrated approach to the management
of emergency programs and activities for all four emergency phases (mitigation, preparedness,
response, and recovery), for all types of emergencies and disasters (natural, manmade, and
attack), and for all levels of government (local, State, and Federal) and the private sector.
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) – Known as
CERCLA or SUPERFUND, it addresses hazardous substance releases into the environment and the
cleanup of inactive hazardous waste sites it also requires those who release hazardous
substances as defined by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), above certain levels
(known as "reportable quantities") to notify the National Response Center.
Compressed Gas - Any material or mixture having an absolute pressure exceeding 40 psi in the
container at 70° F, or regardless of the pressure at 70° F having an absolute pressure exceeding
104 psi at 130° F; or any liquid flammable material having a vapor pressure exceeding 40 psi
absolute at lOO° F as determined by testing. Also includes cryogenic or refrigerated liquids with
boiling points lower than 130° F at 1 atmosphere.
Compressed Gas Association (CGA) – Firms producing and distributing compressed, liquefied,
and cryogenic gases; also manufacturers of related equipment. Submits recommendations to
appropriate government agencies to improve safety standards and methods of handling,
transporting, and storing gases; acts as advisor to regulatory authorities and other agencies
concerned with safe handling of compressed gases; collaborates with national organizations to
develop specifications and standards of safety.
Computer Aided Management of Emergency Operations (CAMEO) - A computer data base
storage-retrieval system of pre-planning and emergency data for on-scene use at hazardous
materials incidents.
Confinement - Procedures taken to keep a material in a defined or localized area.
Consignee - The addressee to whom an item is shipped.
Contact - Being exposed to an undesirable or unknown substance that may pose a threat to
health and safety.
Container – Any device, in which a hazardous material is stored, transported, disposed of, or
otherwise handled.
Revised: April 2016

13.9

125

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Container, Intermodal, ISO - An article of transport equipment that meets the standards of the
International Organization for Standardization (ISO), designed to facilitate and optimize the
carriage of goods by one or more modes of transportation without intermediate handling of the
contents and equipped with features permitting ready handling and transfer from one mode to
another. Containers may be fully enclosed with one or more doors, open top, tank, refrigerated
open rack, gondola, flat rack, and other designs. Included in this definition are modules or arrays
that can be coupled to form an intrinsic unit regardless of intention to move single or in multiplex
configurations.
Containment - All activities necessary to bring the incident to a point of stabilization and to
establish a degree of safety for emergency personnel greater than existed upon arrival.
Contamination - An uncontained substance or process that poses a threat to life, health, or the
environment.
Contamination Control Line - The established line around the contamination reduction zone
that separates it from the support zone.
Contamination Reduction Zone (Warm Zone) - Term used to identify the area of moderate
hazard where threat of contamination spread to the immediate surrounding area is low. It is the
area immediately outside of the inner exclusion zone. The area where personnel and equipment
decontamination and Exclusion Zone support takes place. It includes control points for the access
corridor and thus assists in reducing the spread of contaminants. This is also referred to as the
Decontamination Zone, Warm Zone, Yellow Zone, or Limited Access Zone.
Contingency Plan - A document presenting an organized and coordinated plan of action to limit
potential pollution in case of fire, explosion or discharge of hazardous materials; defines specific
responsibilities and tasks.
Control - The procedure, techniques, and methods used in the mitigation of a hazardous
materials incident, including containment, extinguishment and confinement.
Control Zones - The designation of areas at a hazardous materials incident based upon safety
and the degree of hazard (see Support Zone, Contamination Reduction Zone (Warm Zone),
Exclusion Zone (Hot Zone), and Decontamination Corridor).
Coordination - To bring together, in a uniform and controlled manner, the functions of all
agencies on scene.
Corrosive - The ability to cause destruction of living tissue or many solid materials surfaces by
chemical action.
Cost Recovery - A procedure that allows for the agency having jurisdiction to pursue
reimbursement for all costs associated with a hazardous materials incident.

Revised: April 2016

13.10

126

LYON COUNTY

Critical Facilities – Facilities essential to emergency response, such as fire stations, police
stations, hospitals and communication centers.
Cryogenic - Gases, usually liquefied, that induce freezing temperatures of -15O° F and below
(liquid oxygen, liquid helium, liquid natural gas, and liquid hydrogen, etc.)
Damage Assessment - Gathering information on the type, extent, and costs of damage after an
incident.
Damming - A procedure consisting of constructing a dike or embankment to totally immobilize
a flowing waterway contaminated with a liquid or solid hazardous substance.
Danger When Wet - A label required for water-reactive materials (solid) being shipped under
US DOT, ICAO, and IMO regulations. A labeled material that is in contact with water or
moisture may produce flammable gases. In some cases, these gases are capable of
spontaneous combustion.
De-Con - Popular abbreviation referring to the process of decontamination.
Decontamination - The physical and/or chemical process of reducing and preventing the spread
of contamination from persons and equipment used at a hazardous materials incident (also
referred to as "contamination reduction").
Decontamination Corridor - A distinct area within the Contamination Reduction Zone that
functions as a protective buffer and bridge between the Exclusion Zone and the Support Zone,
where decontamination stations and personnel are located to conduct decontamination
procedures.
Decontamination Officer - A position within the FIRESCOPE ICS HM~l2O which has responsibility
for identifying the location of the decontamination corridor, assigning stations, managing all
decontamination procedures, and identifying the types of decontamination necessary.
Decontamination Team (Decon Team) - A group of personnel and resources operating within a
decontamination corridor.
Degradation – The loss in physical properties of an item of protective clothing due to exposure
to chemicals, use, or ambient conditions.
Delayed Toxic Exposure Effect - The condition in which symptoms of an exposure are not
present immediately after the exposure, but are delayed for a relatively short period of time
(such as pulmonary edema a few hours after an inhalation exposure).
Deleterious Substances - Substances not normally harmful to humans that may be harmful to
the environment.

Revised: April 2016

13.11

127

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Desiccant - A substance, such as silica gel, that removes moisture (water vapor) from the air to
maintain a dry atmosphere in containers of food or chemical packaging.
Detectors:
Combustible Gas Indicator (CGI) Detector – Measures the presence of combustible gas or
vapor in air.
Corrosivity (pH) Detector - A meter or paper that indicates the relative acidity or alkalinity of a
substance, generally using an international scale of 0 (acid) through 14 (alkali-caustic).
Flame Ionization Detector (FID) - A device used to determine the presence of hydrocarbons in
air.
Gas Chromatograph/Mass Spectrometer Detector – An instrument used for identifying and
analyzing organics.
Photo-Ionization Detector (PID) - A device used to determine the presence of gases/vapors in
low concentrations in air.
Heat Detector - An instrument used to detect heat by sensing infra-red waves.
Radiation Beta Survey Detector - An instrument used to detect beta radiation.
Radiation Dosimeter Detector - An instrument which measures the amount of radiation to
which a person has been exposed.
Radiation Gamma Survey - Detector instrument used for the detection of ionizing radiation
principally gamma radiation, by means of a gas-filled tube.
Temperature Detector - An instrument, either mechanical or electronic, used to determine the
temperature of ambient air, liquids, or surfaces.
Diamond (NFPA 704M) - Four-segment diamond placed on outside of fixed-site locations; colorcoded segments indicate categories and levels of health, flammability and reactivity risks to
responding emergency units.
Dike - An embankment or ridge, natural or man-made, used to control the movement of liquids,
sludges, solids, or other materials.
Dike Overflow A dike constructed in a manner that allows uncontaminated water to flow
unobstructed over the dike while keeping the contaminant behind the dike.
Dike Underflow - A dike constructed in a manner that allows uncontaminated water to flow
unobstructed under the dike while keeping the contaminant behind the dike.
Revised: April 2016

13.12

128

LYON COUNTY

Dispersion - To spread, scatter, or diffuse through air, soil, surface or ground water.
Disposal Drum - A reference to a specially constructed drum used to overpack damaged or
leaking containers of hazardous materials for shipment.
Diversion – The intentional, controlled movement of a hazardous material to relocate it to an
area where it will pose less harm to the community and the environment.
Division - The organizational level within the Incident Command System having responsibility
for operations within a defined geographic area. A Division Officer directs approximately five
companies, and answers to the Operations Officer.
DOD - Department of Defense.
Dose - The amount of substance ingested, absorbed, and/or inhaled per exposure period.
DOT - Department of Transportation.
Double Gloving - A set of gloves worn over those already in place for enhanced protection.
Downwind - in the direction in which the wind blows.
Dust - Solid particles generated by handling crushing, grinding, rapid impact, detonation, and
decrepitation of organic or inorganic materials such as rock, ore, metal, coal., wood, and grain.
Ecology - A branch of science concerned with the interrelationship of organisms and their
environments.
Economic Poison - As defined in the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA),
an economic poison is "any substance or mixture of substances intended for preventing,
destroying, repelling, or mitigating any insects, rodents, nematodes, fungi, or weeds or any other
forms of life declared to be pests…any substance intended for use as a plant regulator, defoliant,
or desiccant." As defined, economic poisons are generally known as pesticides.
Ecosystem - A habitat formed by the interaction of a community of organisms with their
environment.
Edema - The swelling of body tissues resulting from fluid retention.
Emergency Management - Organized analysis, planning, decision-making, assignment, and
coordination of available resources to the mitigation of, preparedness for, response to, or
recovery from major community-wide emergencies. Refer to local and state emergency
legislation.
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) - Functions as required to provide emergency medical care
for ill or injured persons by trained providers.
Revised: April 2016

13.13

129

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Emergency Medical Services - Agency Plans and coordinates local public and private emergency
medical services systems sets the local standards for medical and transportation of victims.
Emergency Operations Center (EOC) - The secured site where government officials exercise
centralized direction and control in an emergency The EOC serves as a resource center and
coordination point for additional field assistance. It also provides executive directives to, and
liaison for, state and federal government representatives, and considers and mandates
protective actions.
Emergency Operations Plan - A document that identifies the available personnel, equipment,
facilities, supplies, and other resources in a jurisdiction, and states the method or scheme for
coordinated actions to be taken by individuals and government services in the event of natural,
man-made, and attack related disasters.
Emergency Response - Response to any occurrence which has or could result in a release of a
hazardous substance.
Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) - Published and distributed by DOT for response
personnel’s initial use on-scene at HazMat events. The most recent issue should be used for
response. Earlier editions should be discarded.
Emergency Response Organization - An organization that utilizes personnel trained in
emergency response.
Emergency Response Personnel - Personnel assigned to organizations that have the
responsibility for responding to different types of emergency situations.
Empty Packaging - Any packaging having a capacity of 110 gallons or less that contains only the
residue of a hazardous material in Table 2 of 49 CFR l72.5O4.
Endothermic - A process or chemical reaction which is accompanied by absorption of heat.
Engine (Fire Term) - Any emergency response vehicle providing specified levels of pumping,
water, hose capacity, and personnel.
Entry Point - A specified and controlled location where access into the Exclusion Zone occurs at
a hazardous materials incident.
Entry Team Leader - The Entry leader is responsible for the overall entry operations of assigned
personnel within the Exclusion Zone.
Environment - Water, air, and land, and the interrelationship which exists among and between
them and all living things.

Revised: April 2016

13.14

130

LYON COUNTY

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - The purpose of the EPA is to protect and enhance our
environment today and for future generations to the fullest extent possible under the laws
enacted by Congress. The EPA's mission is to control and abate pollution in the areas of water
air, solid waste, pesticides, noise, and radiation EPA's mandate is to mount an integrated,
coordinated attack on environmental pollution in cooperation with state and local governments.
EOC Liaison – Person designated to establish communications between the incident scene and
the EOC.
Etiological Agent - A viable microorganism or its toxin, which causes or may cause human
disease.
Evacuation - The removal of potentially endangered, but not yet exposed persons from an area
threatened by a hazardous materials incident.
Explosive Ordnance Disposal (ROD) - Military or civilian bomb squads.
Extremely Hazardous Substances (EHS) - EPA uses this term for chemicals which must be
responsible pursuant to SARA, Title III. The list of these substances and the threshold planning
quantities are identified in 40 CFR 355. Releases of extremely hazardous substances as defined
by EPA must be reported to the National Response Center, in California, the term Acutely
Hazardous Material (AHM) is used. They are identical to the EHS in 40 CFR.
Extremely Hazardous Waste - Any Hazardous Waste or mixture of hazardous wastes which, if
human exposure should occur, may likely result in death, disabling injury, or serious illness
caused by the hazardous waste or mixture of hazardous wastes because of its quantity,
concentration, or chemical characteristics.
Exclusion Zone (Hot Zone) - An area immediately surrounding a hazardous materials incident
which extends far enough to prevent adverse effects from hazardous materials release to
personnel outside the zone. This zone is also referred to as the Hot Zone, the Red Zone and the
Restricted Zone in other documents.
Exothermic – A process or chemical reaction which is accompanied by the evolution of heat.
Explosion Proof Equipment - Instruments whose enclosure is designed and constructed to
prevent the ignition of an explosive atmosphere. Certification for explosion-proof performance
is subject to compliance with A5TM standards.
Explosive – Any chemical compound, mixture, or device, of which the primary or common
purpose is to function by explosion, i.e., with substantial instantaneous release of gas and heat.
Explosive Class A- Any of nine types of explosives as defined in 49 CFR 173.53. A material
which, when it detonates, creates a shock wave which travels faster than the speed of sound.

Revised: April 2016

13.15

131

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Explosive Class B - Those explosives which generally function by rapid combustion rather than
by detonation and include some explosive devices such as special fireworks, flash powders,
some pyrotechnic signal devices, and liquid or solid propellant explosives, including some
smokeless powders.
Explosive Class C - Certain types of manufactured articles which contain Class A or Class B
explosives, or both, as components, but in restricted quantities, and certain types of fireworks.
This includes small arms ammunition.
Exposure - The subjection of a person to a toxic substance or harmful physical agent through
any route of entry.
Fahrenheit (°F) - The scale of temperature in which 212° is the boiling point of water at 760 mm
Hg and 320 is the freezing point.
FEMA - Federal Emergency Management Agency, responsible for administering training funds
under Title III of SARA. Broader responsibilities include assistance in all aspects of community
planning, preparedness and response to the full range of likely disasters and emergencies,
including recommendation for a Presidentially-declared disaster area and administration of
disaster funds. Provides a range of expertise and administrative skills in community
preparedness planning via state emergency offices.
Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) - An act that requires pesticides to be
registered and labeled, makes it illegal to detach or destroy pesticide labels, and provides for
pesticide inspections. An amendment to FIFRA now requires EPA to determine whether a
pesticide "will perform its intended function without causing unreasonable adverse effects on
the environment" or human health.
Federal Water Pollution Control Act (WPCA) - See Clean Water Act.
Fibrosis - A condition marked by an increase of interstitial fibrous tissue.
Filter Canister - A container filled with solvents and catalysts which remove gases and vapors
from air drawn through the unit. The canister may also contain an aerosol (particulate) filter to
remove solid or liquid particles (air purifying canister type breathing apparatus are not approved
for use during emergencies by the fire service in California).
First Responder – The first trained person(s) to arrive at the scene of a hazardous materials
incident; May be from the public or private sector.
Responder, Awareness Level - Individuals who are likely to witness or discover a hazardous
substance release and who have been trained to initiate an emergency response sequence by
notifying the proper authorities of the release.
First Responder, Operations Level - Individuals who respond to releases or potential releases of
hazardous substances as part of the initial response to the site for the purpose of protecting
Revised: April 2016

13.16

132

LYON COUNTY

nearby persons, property, or the environment from the effects of the release. They are trained
to respond in a defensive fashion without actually trying to stop the release. Their function is
to contain the release from a safe distance, keep it from spreading, and prevent exposures.
Flammable Liquid - Any liquid having a flash point below 100° (37.8°C).
Flammable Range – A mixture of flammable gas, as mixed with air, expressed as a percent.
Each gas has a range including lower limit and upper limit, and between these limits the
mixture is flammable (explosive).
Flammable Solid - Any solid material, other than one classed as an explosive, which under
conditions normally incident to transportation is liable to cause fires through friction, retains
heat from manufacturing or processing, or which can be ignited readily and when ignited
burns so vigorously and persistently as to create a serious transportation hazard. Included in
this class are spontaneously combustible and water-reactive materials.
Flashpoint - The minimum temperature of a liquid at which it gives off vapors sufficiently fast to
form an ignitable mixture with air and will flash when subjected to an external ignition source,
but will not continue to burn.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) - Performs, directs, and coordinates detection and control
activities which protect consumers against adulterated, misbranded, or falsely advertised foods,
drugs, medical devices, and hazardous products.
Full Protective Clothing - Protective clothing worn primarily by firefighters, which includes
helmet, coat, pants, boots, gloves, and self-contained breathing apparatus designed for
structural firefighting. It does not provide specialized chemical protection.
Fully Encapsulating Suits - Chemical protective suits that are designed to offer full body
protection, including Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), are gas tight, and meet the
design criteria as outlined in NEPA Standard 1991.
Fume - Airborne dispersion consisting of minute solid particles arising from the heating of a
solid material such as lead, in distinction to a gas or vapor. This physical change is often
accompanied by a chemical reaction, such as oxidation. Fumes flocculate and sometimes
coalesce. Odorous gases and vapors should not be called fumes.
Gas - A state of matter in which a material has very low density and viscosity; can expand and
contract greatly in response to changes in temperature and pressure; easily diffuses into other
gases; readily and uniformly distributes itself throughout any container. A gas can be changed
to a liquid or solid state by the combined effect of increased pressure and/or decreased
temperature.
Gelling - A process of adding a specific material that is designed to coagulate a liquid facilitating
its isolation and removal.
Revised: April 2016

13.17

133

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Grounding - Method whereby activities which may generate static electricity will be prevented
from discharging a spark and thereby not produce an ignition point.
Group - The organization level within the Incident Command System having responsibility for
operations within a specific functional area, i.e., salvage, ventilation, hazmat.
Habitat - Thee native environment of an animal or plant; the natural place for life and growth
of an animal or plant.
Halons - Fire suppressing gases that are composed of straight chain carbon atoms with a variety
of halogen atoms attached.
Halogens - A chemical family that includes fluorine, chlorine, bromine, and iodine.
Hazard – Any situation that has the potential for causing damage to life, property and/or the
environment.
Hazard Assessment - A process used to qualitatively or quantitatively assess risk factors to
determine incident operations.
Hazard Class – The eight classes of hazardous materials as categorized and defined by the
Department of Transportation in 49 CFR.
Hazard Identification – The Hazard Identification is part FEMA’s CPG 1-35, of the “Hazard
Identification, Capability Assessment, and Multi-Year Development Plan” (HICA/MYDP, op. Cit.)
information system, which is completed (and updated annually) by State and local emergency
management organizations. The Hazard Identification provides a structured approach for
identifying those hazards judged by local officials to pose a significant threat to their jurisdiction.
Hazardous Air Pollutant - An airborne pollutant that may cause or contribute to an increase in
mortality or serious illness.
Hazardous Chemical - A term used by the United States Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) to denote any chemical that would be a risk to employees if exposed in
the workplace. The list of hazardous chemicals is found in 29 CFR.
Hazardous Material - A substance (so lid liquid, or gas) capable of posing an unreasonable risk
to health, safety, environment or property.
Hazardous Material Categorization (HAZCAT) - A field analysis process to determine basic
hazardous materials hazard classification and some chemical and physical properties of
unknown materials.
Hazardous Materials Emergency - The release or threatened release of a hazardous material
that may impact the public health, safety and/or environment.
Revised: April 2016

13.18

134

LYON COUNTY

Hazardous Materials Response Team (HMRT) – An organized group of employees, designated
by the employer, who are expected to perform work to handle and control actual or potential
leaks or spills of hazardous substances requiring possible close approach to the substance. A
Haz-mat Team may be a separate component of a fire brigade or a fire department or other
appropriately-trained and equipped units from public or private agencies.
Hazardous Materials Response Team – Technician level Shall consist of an organized group of
employees, designated by the employer in compliance with 8 CCR 5192(q)(6), trained to
function at the hazardous materials incidental the Technician Level in accordance with NFPA
472, Chapter 3 (1990). Additionally, personnel on the team shall be capable of the following:
1. The ability to carry out the duties of the positions as identified in FIRESCOPE ICS-HM 120:
a) Group Supervisor
b) Entry Leader
c) Hazardous Material Safety Officer
d) Site Access Control
e) Decontamination leader
f) Technical Specialist-Hazardous Material Reference
(Multiple positions can be handled by one person depending upon the complexity and/or
severity of the incident.)
2. Members shall be assigned positions in accordance with 8 CCR 5192 appropriately trained
to include but not be limited to, entry with splash protective clothing
a) Entry Team - 2
b) Backup Team - 2
Hazardous Materials Response Team Specialty Level - Shall consist of an organized group of
employees, designated by the employer in compliance with 8 CCR 5192(q)(6), who are trained
to function at the hazardous materials incident at the Specialist level in accordance with NFPA
Standard 472, Chapter 4 (1990). Additionally, personnel on the team shall be capable of the
following:
1. The ability to carry out the duties of these positions as identified in FIRESCOPE 1CS-HM-120:
a) Group leader
b) Entry Team leader
c) Hazardous Material Safety Officer
d) Site Access Control Officer
e) Decontamination
f) Technical Specialist-Hazardous Material Reference

Revised: April 2016

13.19

135

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

(Multiple positions can be handled by one person depending upon the complexity and/or
severity of the incident.)
2. Members shall be assigned positions in accordance with 8 CCR 5192 appropriately trained
for entry with vapor protective clothing.
a) Entry Team - 2
b) Backup Team - 2
Hazardous Materials Response Team Specialty - Shall consist of an organized group of
employees, designated by the employer in compliance with 8 CCR 5192(q)(6), who are trained
in the hazards of specific hazardous substances, and/or specific techniques or support services,
and/or the provision of specialized technical advice and assistance in compliance with 8 CCR
5192(q)(5). The team shall be capable of the following, either within their own team or in
agreement with a Hazardous Materials Response Team on scene:
1. The ability to carry out the duties of these positions as identified in Firescope ICS~HM 120:
a) Group Supervisor
b) Entry Team Leader
c) Hazardous Material Safety Officer
d) Site Access Control Officer
e) Decontamination Leader
f) Technical Specialist-Hazardous Materials Reference
(Multiple positions can be handled by one person depending upon the complexity and/or
severity of the incident.)
2. Members shall be assigned positions in accordance with 8 CCR 5192 appropriately trained
to include, but not be limited to entry with splash protection.
a) Entry Team - 2
b) Backup Team - 2
Hazardous Materials Safety Officer/Official - A person at a hazardous materials incident
responsible for assuring that all operations performed at a hazardous materials incident, by all
members present, are done so with respect to the highest levels of safety. The Hazardous
Materials Safety Officer has full authority to alter, suspend, or terminate any activity that may
be judged to be unsafe, advises the hazardous materials group supervisor, and responds to the
Incident Commander through the Site Safety Officer.
Hazardous Substance - Hazardous substance, as used by the California Department of Toxic
Substances Control, encompasses every chemical regulated by both the Department of
transportation (hazardous materials) and the Environmental Protection Agency (hazardous
waste), including emergency response.

Revised: April 2016

13.20

136

LYON COUNTY

Hazardous Waste - 1. Waste materials or mixtures of waste which require special handling and
disposal because of their potential to damage health and/or the environment. 2. The EPA uses
the term "hazardous waste" for chemicals that are regulated under the Resource Conservation
and Recovery Act and are listed in 40 CFR 261.33(d). EPA or California Department of Toxic
Substances Control regulated hazardous waste, when in transport, must also meet 49 CFR parts
170 through 179. California's list of hazardous waste is more inclusive than EPA's.
Hazardous Waste Facilities - Any location used for the treatment, transfer, disposal or storage
or hazardous waste as permitted and regulated by the California Department of Toxic
Substances Control.
Hazardous Waste Generation - The act or process of producing hazardous waste.
Hazardous Waste Landfill - An excavated or engineered area in which hazardous waste is
deposited and covered. Proper protection of the environment from the materials to be
deposited in such a landfill requires careful site selection, good design, proper operation,
leachate collection and treatment, and thorough final closure.
Hazardous Waste Leachate - Any liquid that has percolated through or drained from hazardous
waste emplaced in or on the ground.
Hazardous Waste Management - Systematic control of the collection, source separation,
storage, transportation processing, treatment, recovery, and disposal of hazardous wastes.
Hazardous Waste Manifest, Uniform CE PA use) – The shipping document, originated and
signed by the waste generator or an authorized representative that contains the information
required by law and must accompany shipments of hazardous waste.
Hazardous Waste Site - A location where hazardous wastes are located.
Hazards Analysis - The procedure for identifying potential sources of a hazardous material
release, determining the vulnerability of an area to a hazardous materials release, and
comparing hazards to determine risks to a community.
Hazards Identification - Provides information on which facilities have extremely hazardous
substances (EHSs), what those chemicals are, and how much there is at each facility. Also
provides information on how the chemicals are stored and whether they are used at high
temperatures. Mandatory facility reporting under Title III will provide most of the information
needed for hazards identification.
HAZCAT - See Hazardous Materials Categorization.
Hazmat - Acronym for hazardous materials.
Health Hazard, Chemical - Any chemical or chemical mixture, whose physical or chemical
properties may cause acute or chronic health effects.
Revised: April 2016

13.21

137

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Heavy Metal - A high density metallic element that may demonstrate health hazards as a result
of exposure and may contribute to contamination of the environment. This includes chromium
(Cr), beryllium (Be), lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), cadmium (Cd) and others.
Hepatotoxic - A substance that negatively affects the liver.
Herbicide – An agricultural chemical intended for killing plants or interrupting their normal
growth.
High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) - A procedure used in organics analysis to
separate chemical mixtures based on differential ionic absorption to various substrates.
Hot Tapping - A sophisticated method of welding on, and the cutting of holes through liquid
compressed gas vessels and piping for the purpose of relieving pressure and/or removing
product.
Hot Zone (Exclusion Zone) – An area immediately surrounding a hazardous materials incident
which extends far enough to prevent adverse effects from hazardous materials release to
personnel outside the zone. This zone is also referred to as the Exclusion Zone, the Red Zone
and the Restricted Zone in other documents.
Hygroscopic - A substance that has the property of absorb of moisture from the air, such as
silica gel.
Hypergolic - Two chemical substances that spontaneously ignite upon mixing.
Ignitable Material - Any material having, as a liquid, a flash point less than l4O° F or, if not a
liquid, is capable of causing fire through friction absorption of moisture, or spontaneous
chemical changes.
Ignition Temperature – The minimum temperature at which a material will initiate or maintain
combustion.
Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) - An atmospheric concentration of any toxic,
corrosive, or asphyxiate substance that poses an immediate threat to life or would cause
irreversible or delayed adverse health effects or would interfere with an individual's ability to
escape from a dangerous atmosphere.
Incident - An event involving a hazardous material or a release, or potential release, of a
hazardous material.
Incident Action Plan – A plan which is initially prepared at the first meeting of emergency
personnel who have responded to an incident. The Incident Action Plan contains general
control objectives reflecting overall incident strategy and specific action plans.
Revised: April 2016

13.22

138

LYON COUNTY

Incident Command - A disciplined method of management established for the specific purpose
of control and direction of resources and personnel.
Incident Commander (IC) – The person responsible for all decisions relating to the management
of the incident within an area, agency, facility or political subdivision.
Incident Command System (ICS) - An organized system of roles, responsibilities, and standard
operating procedures used to manage and direct emergency operations.
Incompatible Waste - Waste unsuitable for commingling with another waste or material.
Industrial Wastes – Unwanted materials produced in or eliminated from an industrial
operation.
Infectious Waste – Waste containing pathogens; may consist of tissues organs, body parts,
blood, and/or body fluids.
Ingestion - The process of taking substances such as food, drink, and medicine into the body
through the mouth.
Inhibitor – A chemical added to another substance to prevent or slow down an unwanted or
sudden occurrence of chemical change.
Inorganic Compounds - Chemical compounds that do not contain the element carbon with the
exception of carbon oxides and carbon sulfides.
Insecticide - A chemical product used to kill and control insects.
Investigate – To systematically search or inquire into the particulars of an incident, and collect
the necessary evidence to seek criminal and/or civil prosecution.
Irritant - A material that has an anesthetic irritating, noxious, toxic, or other similar property
which can cause extreme annoyance or discomfort.
Isolating the Scene – Preventing persons and equipment from becoming exposed to a release
or threatened release of a hazardous material by the establishment of site control zones.
Labpack - Putting multiple small containers of chemicals with compatible chemical
characteristics in a disposal drum with absorbent material.
Lacrimation – Tearing produced by eye irritation.
LC50 (Lethal Concentration, 50%) - The amount of a toxicant in air which is deadly to 50% of
the exposed lab animal population within a specified time.

Revised: April 2016

13.23

139

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

LD50 (Lethal Dose 50%) - The amount of a toxicant administered by other than inhalation
which is deadly to 50% of the exposed lab animal population within a specified time.
Leak – The uncontrolled release of a hazardous material which could pose a threat to health,
safety, and/or the environment.
Leak Control Compounds - Substances used for the plugging and patching of leaks in
unpressurized containers, and some low-pressure containers.
Leak Control Devices – Tools and equipment used for the plugging and patching of leaks in
unpressurized and some low-pressure containers, pipes, and tanks.
Lethal – Causing or capable of causing death.
Level of Protection – In addition to appropriate respiratory protection designations of types of
personal protective equipment to be worn based on NFPA standards, Level A - Vapor protective
suit for hazardous chemical emergencies, Level B - Liquid splash protective suit for hazardous
chemical emergencies, Level C - Limited use protective suit for hazardous chemical emergencies.
Level One Incident - Hazardous materials incidents which can be correctly contained
extinguished, and/or abated utilizing equipment, supplies, and resources immediately available
to first responders having jurisdiction, and whose qualifications are limited to and do not exceed
the scope of training as explained in S CCR 5192 or California Government Code, Chapter 1503,
with reference to First Responder, Operational level."
Level Two Incident - Hazardous materials incidents which can only be identified, tested sampled,
contained, extinguished, and/or abated utilizing the resources of a hazardous Materials
Response Team, which requires the use of specialized chemical protective clothing, and whose
qualifications are explained in 8 CCR 5192 or California Government Code, Chapter 1503, with
reference to Hazardous Materials Technician level.
Level Three Incident – A hazardous materials incident which is beyond the controlling
capabilities of a Hazardous Materials Response Team (Technician or Specialist Level) whose
qualifications are explained in 8 CCR 5192 or California Government Code, Chapter 1503; and/or
requires the use of two or more Hazardous Materials Response Teams; and/or must be
additionally assisted by qualified specialty teams or individuals.
LOC - Level of Concern. The concentration of an extremely hazardous substance (EHS) in the air
above which there may be serious irreversible health effects or death as a result of a single
exposure for a relatively short period of time.
Local Emergency Planning (LEPC) - A committee appointed by a state emergency response
commission, as required by SARA Title III, to formulate a comprehensive emergency plan for its
corresponding Office of Emergency Services mutual aid region.

Revised: April 2016

13.24

140

LYON COUNTY

Localized Exposure – Contact with a limited area, usually an external body surface.
Logistics Chief – The organizational position within the Incident Command System having
responsibility for summoning and managing support apparatus, equipment and personnel.
Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) - The lowest concentration of a material in air that can be
detonated by spark shock, or fire, etc.
Macro-Encapsulation - The isolation of a waste by embedding it in, or surrounding it with, a
material that acts as a barrier to water or air (e.g., clay and plastic liners).
Manifest, Uniform Hazardous Waste - A document required by 40 CFR 262 to accompany any
shipment of hazardous waste from the point of generation to the point of final
disposal/destruction.
Marking - The required descriptive name, instructions, cautions, weight, or specifications or
combination thereof on containers of hazardous materials or hazardous waste.
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) – A document which contains information regarding the
specific identity of hazardous chemicals, including information on health effects, first aid,
chemical and physical properties, and emergency contacts.
Melting Point -The temperature at which a material changes from a solid to a liquid.
Micro Organism - A living organism not directly visible to the unaided eye.
Midnight Dumping – Illegal disposal of hazardous materials.
Mist - Suspended liquid droplets generated by condensation from the gaseous to the liquid
state or by breaking up a liquid into a dispersed state; such as by splashing, foaming, or
atomizing. A mist is formed when a finely divided liquid is suspended in air.
Mitigation – Any action employed to contain, reduce, or eliminate the harmful effects of a spill
or release of a hazardous material.
Monitoring – The act of systematically checking to determine contaminant levels and
atmospheric conditions.
Monitoring Environmental Contamination – Use of instruments and other techniques to
determine the presence or levels of hazardous materials.
Monitoring Equipment - Instruments and devices used to identify, qualify, and/or quantify
contaminants.
MSDS - see Material Safety Data Sheet.
Revised: April 2016

13.25

141

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Mutagen - A substance capable of causing genetic damage.
Mutual Aid - An agreement to supply specifically agreed upon aid or support in emergency
situation between two or more agencies, jurisdictions, or political subdivisions.
Narcosis - Stupor or unconsciousness produced by chemical substances.
National Contingency Plan (NCP) – Created by CERCLA to define the federal response authority
and responsibility for oil and hazardous materials spills.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) - An international voluntary membership
organization to promote improved fire protection and prevention establish safeguards against
loss of life and property by fire. Publishes the American National Standards.
National Interagency Incident Management System (NIIMS) - A standardized systems
approach to incident management that consists of five major subdivisions which collectively
provide a total systems approach to all-risk incident management.
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) - A federal agency which among
other activities tests and certifies respiratory protective devices air sampling detector tubes, and
recommends occupational exposure limits for various substances.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) - The agency responsible to serve
as Scientific Support Coordinator for a federal On-Scene Coordinator. Assists in oil spill and air
toxics modeling, meteorological monitoring, and oceanic research.
National Pesticide Telecommunications Network (NPTN) - The 24 hour toll free national
hotline (1-800/858-PEST) operated by the Texas Tech University School of Medicine providing
information about pesticide safety, application, chemistry and toxicology to callers in the U.S.,
Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Questions are answered directly or via next day mail.
National Response Center (NRC) - A communications center in Washington, D.C. operated by
the United States Coast Guard. They provide information on suggested technical emergency
actions, and must be notified by a spiller within 24 hours of any hazardous substance spill of a
reportable quantity.
National Response Team (NRT) – Organization of representatives from 14 federal agencies with
responsibility for national planning and coordination (interagency and inter-jurisdictional) of
CERCLA objectives.
Necrosis - Death in a particular part of a living tissue.
Nephrotoxic - A substance that adversely affects the kidneys.
Neurotoxin - A substance that adversely affects the nervous system.
Revised: April 2016

13.26

142

LYON COUNTY

Neutralization - The process by which acid or alkaline properties of a solution are altered by
addition of certain reagents to bring the hydrogen and hydroxide concentrations to equal value
(pH 7 is neutral).
Non-flammable Gas - Any material or mixture, in a cylinder or tank, other than poison or
flammable gas, having an absolute pressure in the container exceeding 40 psi at 7O°F, or having
an absolute pressure exceeding 104 psi at l3O°F.
North American (NA) Number - A four digit number used in the United States and Canada to
identify a hazardous material or group of hazardous materials in transportation
Not Otherwise Specified (NOS or n.o.s.) - In shipping regulations, the term is used for classes of
substances to which restrictions apply, but for which the individual members of the class are not
listed in the regulations.
NRT-1 – Emergency Planning Guide issued by NRT, dated March 1987; fulfills Congressional
requirement for unified Federal guidance document for HazMat emergency planning. Product
of numerous inputs from State and local government, industry, emergency planners,
environmental groups, and the public. Known to some as the “orange book,” and is a key,
central document for LEPC/SERC guidance.
NRT-1A - “Criteria for Review of Hazardous Materials Emergency Plans,” issued by NRT in May
1988, to assist communities in assessing the effectiveness of their plans. Derived in part from
FEMA documents such as CPG 1-8, 1-8a and NRT-1.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Component of the United States
Department or Labor, an agency with safety and health regulatory and enforcement authorities
for most United States industries, businesses, and states.
Odor Threshold - The lowest concentration in the atmosphere which can be detected by the
human sense of smell. Often a poor indicator of toxicity risk.
Office of Hazardous Materials Safety (OHMS) - A federal agency tasked with the research and
recommended revisions to 49 CFR.
Oil - Any of numerous mineral, vegetable, and synthetic substances and vegetable and animal
fats that are generally slippery, combustible, viscous, liquid, or liquefiable at room temperature,
Oil Spill Clean-up Agent - Any material used in removing oil from the environment, including
inert sorbent materials, approved chemical dispersants, surface collecting agents, sinking
agents, and biological additives.
Olfactory - Pertaining to the sense of smell.

Revised: April 2016

13.27

143

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

On-Scene Coordinator (OSC) - As explained in the National Contingency Plan, it is the predesignated federal official who coordinates federal activities at a hazardous materials incident,
and monitors the incident for compliance with federal pollution laws.
Operations - The organizational level within the Incident Command System immediately
subordinate to the Incident Commander. When established, this position is responsible for the
direct management of all incident tactical activities.
Oral Toxicity - Adverse effects resulting from taking a substance into the body through the
mouth.
Organic Peroxide - Strong oxidizers, often chemically unstable, containing the o-o structure.
They react readily with solvents or fuels, resulting in an explosion or fire.
Other Regulated Materials A (ORM A) - A material which has an anesthetic, irritating, noxious,
toxic, or other similar property and which can cause extreme annoyance or discomfort to
passengers and crew in the event of leakage during transportation.
Other Regulated Materials B (ORM B) - A material (including a solid when wet with water)
capable of causing significant damage to a transport vehicle from leakage during
transportation.
Other Regulated Materials C (ORM C) - A material which has other inherent characteristics not
described as an ORM A or ORM B, but which make it unsuitable for shipment unless properly
identified and prepared for transportation.
Other Regulated Materials D (ORM D) - A material, such as a consumer commodity, which
presents a limited hazard during transportation due to its form quantity, and packaging.
Other Regulated Materials E (ORM E) - A material that is not included in any other hazard class,
but is subject to the requirements of 49 CFK 173.500. This includes hazardous waste.
Overpack – An enclosure used to consolidate two or more packages of hazardous material.
“Overpack” does not include a freight container.
Oxidizer - A chemical, other than a blasting agent or explosive, that initiates or promotes
combustion in other materials, thereby causing fire, either of itself or through the release of
oxygen or other gases.
Oxygen Deficiency - A concentration of oxygen insufficient to support life.
Oxygen Deficient Atmosphere - An atmosphere which contains an oxygen content less than
l9.5 % by volume at sea level.

Revised: April 2016

13.28

144

LYON COUNTY

Pacific Strike Team - The National Strike Force pollution control team equipped and trained to
assist in responses to oil or chemical incidents occurring in the western United States and
administered by the United States Coast Guard.
Pallets - A low portable platform constructed of wood, metal, plastic, or fiberboard, built to
specified dimensions on which supplies are loaded, transported or stored in units.
Parts Per Billion (ppb) - A unit for measuring the concentration of a particular substance equal
to one unit combined with 999,999,999 other units.
Parts Per Million (ppm) - A unit for measuring the concentration of a particular substance equal
to one unit combined with 999,999 other units.
Pathogen - Any disease-producing organism, including viruses.
PCB Contaminated Electrical Equipment - Any electrical equipment, including transformers,
that contains at least 50 ppm but less than 500 ppm of PCBs.
PCB Item - An item containing PCBs at a concentration of 5 ppm or greater.
PCB Transformer - Any transformer that contains 500 ppm of PCBs or greater.
Penetration - The movement of liquid molecules through a chemical protective clothing, suit,
garment, or material.
Permeation - The movement of vapor or gas molecules through a chemical protective garment
material.
Permeation Kits - Kits assembled for the purpose of testing on-site an unknown liquid
substance for permeability of chemical protective clothing.
Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) - The employees permitted exposure limit to any material
listed in Table ZI, Z-2 or Z-3 of OSHA regulations, section 19l0.1000, Air Contaminants.
Persistent Toxic Substance - A material or waste that resists natural degradation or
detoxification and may present long term health and environmental hazards.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) - Equipment provided to shield or isolate a person from
the chemical, physical, and thermal hazards that may be encountered at a hazardous materials
incident. Adequate personal protective equipment should protect the respiratory system, skin,
eyes, face, hands, feet, head, body, and hearing. Personal protective equipment includes:
personal protective clothing, self-contained positive pressure breathing apparatus, and air
purifying respirators.
Pesticides - A chemical or mixture of chemicals used to destroy, prevent or control any living
organism considered to be a pest.
Revised: April 2016

13.29

145

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

pH - A numerical designation of the negative logarithm of hydrogen ion concentration. A pH of
7.0 is neutral; higher values indicate alkalinity and lower values indicate acidity.
Physical Hazard - Chemical for which there is scientifically-valid evidence that it is a
combustible liquid, a flammable gas, explosive, flammable an organic peroxide, an oxidizer,
pyrophoric, unstable reactive, or water reactive.
Placard [UN/NA] - Required on all four sides of all transport vessels, [UN/NA] displaying UN class
code and four-digit identification number for contained hazardous material, within an 11- inch
diamond.
Plugging and Patching Kits - Kits commercially available or privately assembled for emergency
plugging and patching of leaking containers, pipes, and tanks.
Plume - A vapor, liquid, dust, or gaseous cloud formation which has shape and buoyancy
Pnennonitis - Inflammation of the lungs, characterized by an outpouring of fluid in the lungs.
Poison Class A - Poisonous gases or liquids of such a nature that a very small amount of the gas,
or vapor of the liquid, mixed with air is dangerous to life.
Poison Class B - Substances, liquids, or solids other than Poison Class A or irritating materials,
which are known to be so toxic to man as to afford a hazard to health.
Pollution - Contamination of air, water, land, or other natural resources that will, or is likely to
create, a public nuisance and cause health and environmental harm.
Po1ychlorinated Biphenyl (PCB) - One of several aromatic compounds containing two benzene
nuclei with two or more chlorine atoms.
Polymerization - A chemical reaction usually carried out with a catalyst, heat, or light, and often
under high pressure, which generates high temperature and when uncontrolled, may be violent.
Post-Emergency Response - That portion of an emergency response performed after the
immediate threat of a release has been stabilized or eliminated and cleanup of the site has
begun.
Post-Incident Analysis - The termination phase of an incident that includes completion of the
required forms and documentation for conducting a critique
Pre-Incident Planning - The process associated with preparing for the response to a hazard by
developing plans, identifying resources, conducting exercises, and other techniques to improve
an agency's or organization's response capabilities.

Revised: April 2016
6

13.30

146

LYON COUNTY

Product Substitution - Replacing a hazardous substance in a process with a less hazardous
substance.
Proper Shipping Name - The DOT designated name for a commodity or material.
Protective Clothing - See Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
PRP - Potentially Responsible Party: party most likely responsible for a pollution incident; has the
liability for its proper cleanup and disposal and should initiate appropriate actions. State and
local governments have the immediate responsibility for resolving threats to public health and
safety. When appropriate action is being taken by responsible party and/or the state or local
government, the federal government may only monitor the situation. When the responsible
party is unknown, unwilling or unable to respond properly, and an incident exceeds the
capabilities of state and local governments, the activation of federal response resources may be
appropriate. The relationships among various on-scene authorities are best addressed through
preplanning.
Public Information Officer (PIO) - An individual assigned to act as the liaison between an
Incident Commander and the news media.
Pulmonary - Pertaining to the lungs.
Pyrophoric - A substance that ignites spontaneously in dry or moist air at or below l30°F.
Qualitative Fit Test - A physical testing of a breathing apparatus face piece to the wearer,
performed in an atmosphere of amyl acetate or irritant smoke to evaluate whether the wearer
can detect the contaminant, indicating mask leakage and improper fit.
Radiation Absorbed Dose (RAD) - A basic unit of absorbed dose of ionizing radiation.
Radioactive - The spontaneous disintegration of unstable nuclei accompanied by emission of
nuclear radiation.
Radioactive Material (RAM) - Any material, or combination of materials, that spontaneously
emits ionizing radiation and has a specific activity greater than 0.002 microcuries per gram.
Recorder - SeeTechnical Specialist Hazardous Materials Reference.
Recovery Drum - See Disposal Drum.
Reference Library - A selection of chemical text books, reference books, microfiche, and
computer data programs typically carried by a hazardous materials response team.
Regional Plan - A hazardous materials response plan developed pursuant to SARA Title III.

Revised: April 2016

13.31

147

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Regional Response Team - Composed of representatives of the federal agencies and a
representative from each state in the ten federal EPA regions as specified in the NCP.
Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) - The agency charged with managing
statewide water quality.
Release, Threatened Release - The actual or potential spilling, leaking, pumping, pouring,
emitting, emptying, discharging, injecting, escaping, leaching, dumping, or disposing into the
environment, including the abandonment or discarding of barrels, containers and other closed
receptacles, of any hazardous material.
Remedial Action - Actions taken to mitigate the effects of a release or threatened release of a
hazardous material to protect health or the environment.
Reportable Incident - Any incident that has or may impact public health, safety, or the
environment, or is otherwise required by law to be reported.
Reportable Quantity (RQ) - The designated amount of a specific material that if spilled or
released requires immediate notification to the National Response Center (NRC).
Rescue - The removal of victims by appropriately trained and equipped personnel from an area
determined to be contaminated or otherwise hazardous.
Residue - A material remaining in a package after its contents have been emptied and before
the packaging is refilled, or cleaned and purged of vapor to remove any potential hazard.
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) - The federal framework for the proper
management and disposal of hazardous wastes. This program is administered by EPA and may
be delegated to the states.
Response - That portion of incident management where personnel are involved in controlling a
hazardous materials incident.
Responsible Party (RP) - A legally recognized entity (person, corporation, business, or
partnership, etc.) that has a legally recognized status of financial accountability and liability for
action necessary to abate and mitigate adverse environmental and human health and safety
impacts resulting from a non-permitted release or discharge of hazardous material; the person
or agency found legally accountable for the cleanup of the incident.
Risk - A measure of the probability that damage to life, property, and/or the environment will
occur if a hazard manifests itself; this measure includes the severity of anticipated
consequences to people.
Risk Analysis - A process to analyze the probability of harm to tile, property, and the
environment due to a hazardous materials incident.
Revised: April 2016

13.32

148

LYON COUNTY

Risk Assessment - Broadly defined as the scientific activity of evaluating the toxic properties of
a chemical and the conditions of human exposure to it, with the objective of determining the
probability that exposes humans will be adversely affected. Its four main components are:
Hazard Identification - Does the agent cause the effect?
Dose-Response Assessment - What is the relationship between the dose and its incidence in
human beings?
Exposure Assessment - What exposures are experienced or anticipated and under what
conditions?
Risk Characterization - The combined analysis producing an estimate of the incidence of the
adverse effect in a given population.
Risk Management - Decision-making process which involves such considerations as risk
assessment, technological feasibility, economic information about costs and benefits, statutory
requirements, public concerns, and other factors.
Roentgen - A measure of the charge produced in air created by ionizing radiation, usually in
reference to gamma radiation.
Roentgen Equivalent Man (REM) - The unit of dose equivalent; takes into account the
effectiveness of different types of radiation.
Rupture - The physical failure of a container or mechanical device, releasing or threatening to
release a hazardous material.
Safety Officer - An individual at an emergency incident, selected by the Incident Commander,
responsible for ensuring overall operations are conducted in accordance with the highest levels
of safety. The Safety Officer shall report directly to the Incident Commander.
Salivation - An excessive discharge of saliva; ptyalism.
Salvage Drum - See Disposal Drum.
Sample - To take a representative portion of a hazardous material for evidence or analytical
purposes
Sampling Kits - Kits assembled for the purpose of providing adequate tools and equipment for
taking samples and documenting unknown materials to create a chain of evidence.
Scenario – An outline of a natural or expected course of events.
Scene - The location impacted or potentially impacted by a hazard.
Revised: April 2016

13.33

149

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Secondary Materials - Spent materials, sludge, byproducts, scrap metal, and commercial
chemical products recycled in ways that differ from their normal use.
Selective Toxicity - The capacity of a chemical to injure one kind of living matter without
harming another even though the two may be in intimate contact.
Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCRA) - A positive pressure self-contained breathing
apparatus (SCBA) or combination SCBA/supplied air breathing apparatus his certified by the
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and he Mine Safety and Health
Administration (MSHA) or the appropriate approval agency for use in atmospheres that are
immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH)
Sensitizer - A substance which on first exposure causes little or no reaction in humans or test
animals, but which on repeated exposure may cause a marked response not necessarily limited
to the contact site.
SERC - State Emergency Response Commission, designated by the Governor, responsible for
establishing hazmat planning districts and appointing/overseeing Local Emergency Planning
Committees.
Sheltering-In-Place/In-Place Protection - To direct people to quickly go inside a building and
remain inside until the hazardous materials threat passes.
Shipping Papers - Generic term referring to documents that must accompany all shipments of
goods for transportation. These include Hazardous Waste Manifests, Bills of Lading, Consists,
etc. Shipping papers are intended to describe what hazardous materials are contained within a
shipment if any.
Short Term Exposure Limit (STEL) - A 15 minute time weighted coverage which should not be
exceeded at any time during a work day nor repeated more than 4 times per day, even if the 8
hour time-weighted average is within the thresho1d limit value (TLV).
Site - Any facility or Location within the scope of 8 CCR 5192(a)(3).
Skimmer - Physical systems whereby a liquid phase is recovered from another liquid phase due
to polarity differences and stored or transferred for further processing. Typical use is to remove
petroleum products floating on a body of water.
Sludge - Accumulated solids, semi-solids, or liquid waste generated from wastewater, drilling
operations, or other fluids.
Smoke - An air suspension (aerosol) of particles, often originating from combustion or
sublimation.
Solidification - Process whereby a contaminant is permanently immobilized in a substrate to
prevent future migration away from the container.
Revised: April 2016

13.34

150

LYON COUNTY

Solidity - The ability or tendency of one substance to blend uniformly with another.
Solvents - A liquid substance capable of dissolving or dispersing one or more other substances
to form a uniformly dispersed mixture.
Spill - The release of a liquid, powder, or solid hazardous material in a manner that poses a
threat to air, water, ground, and to the environment.
Spiller - See Responsible Patty.
Spontaneously Combustible - See Pyrophoric.
Stabilization - The period of an incident where the adverse behavior of the hazardous material
is controlled.
Staging Area -The safe area established for temporary location of available resources closer to
the incident site to reduce response time.
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) - Set of instructions having the force of a directive,
covering features of operations which lend themselves to a definite or standardized procedure
without loss of effectiveness, and implemented without a specific direct order from higher
authority.
Stationary Source - A fixed facility from which a release of hazardous materials may originate.
Storage - Containment of hazardous materials on a temporary basis in such a manner as to not
constitute disposal of such materials.
Strict Liability - The responsible party is liable even though they have exercised reasonable
care.
Superfund - Trust fund established under the Comprehensive Environmental Response,
Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) and Reauthorization Act (SARA) to provide money for
cleanups associated with inactive hazardous waste disposal sites.
Superfund Amendments & Reauthorization Act (SARA) - Created for the purpose of
establishing federal statutes for right-to-know standards, emergency response to hazardous
materials incidents, re-authorized the federal superfund, and mandated states to implement
equivalent regulations and/or requirements.
Support Zone (Cold Zone) - The area outside of the contamination reduction zone (warm zone).
Equipment and personnel are not expected to become contaminated in this area. This is the area
where resources are assembled to support the hazardous materials operation.

Revised: April 2016

13.35

151

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Surface Impoundment - A natural depression, human made excavation, or diked area designed
to hold an accumulation of liquid wastes or waste containing free liquids.
Synergistic Effect - The combined effect of two chemicals which is greater than the sum of the
effect of each agent alone.
Systemic - Pertaining to the internal organs and. structures of the body.
Systemic Toxic Exposure - Toxic effects to the body as a whole spreading via the bloodstream
and often displaying delayed symptoms.
Team Leader - See Entry Team leader.
Technical Specialist - Hazardous Materials Reference - Person assigned to document activities
of the Hazardous Materials Response Team and gather information relevant to the chemicals
involved and their hazards.
Teratogen - A substance or agent which can result in malformations at a fetus.
Teratogenicity - Ability to produce birth defects.
Termination - That portion of incident management where personnel are involved in
documenting safety procedures, site operations, and hazards and lessons faced from the
incident. Termination is divided into three phases debriefing, post-incident analysis, and
critique.
Thieving Rod - A glass rod used like a coliwassa, except the liquid is contained in the tube by a
vacuum pressure.
Threshold - The point where a physiological or toxicological effect begins to be produced by the
smallest degree of simulation
Threshold Limit Value (TLV) - The value for an airborne toxic material which is to be used as a
guide in the control of health hazards and represents the concentration to which nearly all
workers may be exposed 8 hours per day over extended periods of time without adverse
effects.
Threshold Limit Value Ceiling (TLV-C) – The concentration that should not be exceeded during
any part of the working exposure.
Threshold Limit Value Time Weighted Average (TLV-TWA) - An exposure level under which
most people can work consistently for 8 hours a day, day after day, with no harmful effects.
Threshold Planning Quantity (TPQ) - The quantity designated for each extremely hazardous
substance that triggers a required notification by facilities to the state emergency response
commission that such facilities are subject to reporting under SARA Title III.
Revised: April 2016

13.36

152

LYON COUNTY

Tier I or Tier II - Inventory form for reporting Hazardous Chemicals and Extremely Hazardous
Substances. Tier II describes more detailed chemical quantity and location(s) within the facility.
Title III (or SARA) – The “Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986.”
Specifies requirements for organizing the planning process at the State and local levels for
specified extremely hazardous substances; minimum plan content; requirements for fixed facility
owners and operators to inform officials about extremely hazardous substances present at the
facilities; and mechanisms for making information about extremely hazardous substances
available to citizens (42 USC annot., sec. 11001, et. Seq.-1986)
Totally Encapsulated Suits - Special protective suits made of materials that prevent toxic or
corrosive substances or vapors from coming in contact with the body
Toxic - Poisonous; relating to or caused by a toxin; able to cause injury by contact or systemic
action to plants, animals or people.
Toxic Chemicals - EPA uses this term for chemicals whose total emissions and releases must be
reported annually by owners and operators of certain facilities that manufacture, process, or
otherwise use a listed toxic chemical as identified in SARA Title III.
Toxicity - A relative property of a chemical agent that refers to its harmful effect on some
biological mechanism and the conditions under which this effect occurs.
Toxicology - The study of the adverse effects of chemical agents on biological systems.
Trade Secret – Any confidential formula, pattern, process, device, information or compilation of
information that is used in an employer’s business, and that gives the employer an opportunity
to obtain an advantage over competitors who do not know or use it.
Traffic Control/Crowd Control - Action(s), usually taken by law enforcement personnel to
secure and/or minimize exposure of the public to unsafe conditions resulting from emergency
incidents, impediments, and congestion.
Treatment - Any method, technique, process which changes the physical, chemical or biological
character or composition of any hazardous waste, removes or reduces its harmful properties or
characteristics for any purpose.
United Nations Identification Number (UN) - When UN precedes a four digit number it indicates
that this identification number is used internationally to identify a hazardous material.
Upper Explosive Limit (UEL) - The highest concentration of the material in air that can be
detonated.
Upwind - In or toward the direction from which the wind blows.
Revised: April 2016

13.37

153

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Vapor - An air dispersion of molecules of a substance that is normally a liquid or solid at
standard temperature and pressure.
Vapor Dispersion - The movement of vapor clouds in air due to turbulence, gravity, spreading,
and mixing.
Vapor Protective Suit - See Levels of Protection
Vulnerability - The susceptibility of life, the environment, and/or property to damage by a
hazard.
Vulnerability Analysis – Identifies what is susceptible to damage. Should provide information
on: extent of the vulnerable zone; population, in terms of size and types that could be expected
to be within the vulnerable zone; private and public property that may be damaged, including
essential support systems and transportation corridors; and environment that may be affected,
and impact on sensitive natural areas and endangered species. Refer to the CEPP technical
guidance or DOT’s Emergency Response Guidebook to obtain information on the vulnerable zone
for a hazardous materials release. A standard vulnerability analysis has been developed by EPA
to assist communities in addressing sec. 303 of Title III.
Warm Zone (Contamination Reduction Zone) - The area where personnel and equipment
decontamination and Exclusion Zone support takes place. It includes control points for the access
corridor and thus assists in reducing the spread of contaminants. This is also referred to as the
Decontamination Zone, Contamination Reduction Zone, Yellow Zone or Limited Access Zone.
Water Reactive – The property of reacting violently when contacted by water, generating
extreme heat, burning, exploding, or rapidly reacting to produce an ignitable toxic, or corrosive
mist, vapor or gas.

Revised: April 2016

13.38

154

LYON COUNTY

SECTION 14: STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES

STANDARD OPERATING
PROCEDURES

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
RESPONSE TEAM

Revised: April 2016

14.1

155

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS RESPONSE TEAM
Section
Table of Contents
************************************************************************ ******
Air Monitoring
24
Chemical Protective Clothing
32
Cleanup
25
Communications at Hazardous Materials Incidents
23
Decontamination
8
Emergency Response Plan
6
Equipment Replacement
22
General Safety Procedures
1
Hazardous Materials Response
2
Exclusion Zone Entry
20
Incident Command Structure for Hazardous Materials
4
Initial Operations
27
Injury - Incident Related
21
Inspecting Personal Protective Equipment
19
Investigation
31
Level of Incident and Proper Notifications
3
Maintenance of Protective Equipment
28
Medical Monitoring
12
Operational Priorities
5
Personal Protective Equipment
11
Physical Examinations
14
Protective Action
9
Radiological Responses
33
Records and Reports
30
Site Control
13
Skilled Support Personnel
15
Storage of Personal Protective Equipment
29
Team Activation
10
Technical Specialists
16
Termination
17
Testing of Hazardous Materials
18
Training and Recertification
7
Weekly Inspections
26
Revised: 12/99

Revised: April 2016

14.2

156

LYON COUNTY

GENERAL SAFETY PROCEDURES

1-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to ensure that all personnel operating at the scene of a
hazardous materials incident will be operating in the safest manner possible.
PROCEDURE
The safe outcome of all operations is the goal of all hazardous materials incidents. Unsafe acts,
potentially dangerous situations, improper protective clothing, or a failure to follow established
procedures shall be brought to the individual’s attention immediately. This does not relieve the
officer of responsibility of the crew, but does place safety awareness and responsibility on every
individual of the response unit. In order to ensure the safety of all operating personnel at an
incident, the following procedures shall be followed:
Apparatus shall be positioned far enough away from the incident to remain out of harm’s way as
incident dictates, and shall be faced in the direction of egress or quick exit should conditions
worsen.
Avoid driving past the incident area or through a vapor cloud, visible spill, or flow of product. In
general, the safest position is uphill and upwind from the incident scene. Until product
identification is positively completed, the minimum level of protective clothing to be utilized will
be determined by the education, training, and experience of the haz-mat team members.
Controlled access areas (zones) will be set up as soon as possible.
A Site Safety Plan will be developed, and all involved personnel will be briefed as to its
contents.
All personnel entering work zones must be adequately trained and briefed as to the practices to
be followed in the Site Safety Plan.
Visual contact should be maintained between entry teams, back-up teams, and designated
safety personnel.
Make entry and egress through Access Control Points.
A Safety Officer, knowledgeable with operations, will be appointed as soon as possible. Never
eat, smoke, or drink at or around hazardous materials incident scenes until you decontaminate
and wash hands, face, and hair thoroughly.
Monitoring for flammable atmospheres will be taken around the complete perimeter,
especially downhill and downwind.

Revised: April 2016

14.3

157

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Avoid contamination at all times (walking or stationing self in vapor cloud, liquid runoff, dust,
smoke, and other products; leaning on or kneeling in contaminated objects/areas; or
positioning too close to the affected areas).
Any product transfer or handling will be preceded by proper grounding and bonding of the
containers.
All entries will be done in pairs of workers in PPE, with an equal number of back-up personnel
equally clad. If workers are out of sight (i.e., in a warehouse or in a trailer), a third person shall
be used as an observer.

Revised: April 2016

14.4

158

LYON COUNTY

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS RESPONSE

2-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to ensure personnel safety when responding to hazardous
materials incidents.
PROCEDURE
Confirmed Hazardous Materials Incident
In the event of a confirmed hazardous materials release, the following equipment and
personnel shall be dispatched and/or notified as per the Incident Commander’s request.

● First Alarm Assignment consisting of:
2 (Two) Engines
1 (One) Rescue
1 (One) Battalion Chief
● Hazardous Materials Response Unit
● Hazardous Materials Response Team
● Other agencies and units as needed
Non-Confirmed Hazardous Materials Incident
When a call comes in and it cannot be confirmed that it is a hazardous materials incident, the
initial arriving apparatus must evaluate the incident. If the initial apparatus confirms a
hazardous material, then the appropriate dispatch will be made at that time.
Dispatch shall advise responding units of the possibility of hazardous materials.
Personnel arriving at an unconfirmed hazardous materials incident may utilize on-duty
Hazardous Materials Specialists for technical advice if necessary. This is best accomplished by
the use of a telephone, but if the incident is near the location of one of the Specialists, they may
be dispatched directly to the scene to evaluate. However, consideration should always be given
to any time delay caused by this sort of identification process.
The Hazardous Materials Response Team may be utilized to take samples of substances for
assistance in identifying.

Revised: April 2016

14.5

159

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

LEVEL OF INCIDENT AND PROPER NOTIFICATIONS

3-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to assure that the proper notifications are made and that they
comply with local, state, and federal agencies.
PROCEDURE
Hazardous materials incidents are classified into three levels, determined by their complexity.
Level I
Level I emergencies will be assigned to those minor incidents that can be handled within the
capabilities of the initial responders. Level I spills are those releases that involve less than the
reportable quantity (RQ) established for that particular substance by the reporting requirements
contained in the CERCLA and SARA Title III statutes; e.g., a motor vehicle fuel spill of less than
forty-two (42) gallons, or a release of anhydrous ammonia of less than 100 lbs.
Level II
These incidents will be assigned for more complex incidents that usually require a significant
resource commitment and/or a level of expertise beyond the normal capabilities of the
responding agency. Level II incidents require activation of the local hazardous materials area
response plan, with notification to state and federal agencies, and may require local
evacuation. Spills of motor vehicle fuels in excess of 42 gallons and spills involving established
RQs of any quantity of an unknown substance fall into this category.
Level III
A Level III emergency will be assigned to a major incident that has escalated beyond the
capabilities of local and state agencies to handle. Therefore, a Level III emergency requires the
intervention of federal agencies, such as the EPA. These are the worst-case scenarios, such as a
major train derailment or an airplane crash. Level III incidents require mandatory reporting to
the National Response Center (1-800-424-8802).
It is the responsibility of the Incident Commander to ensure that all mandatory notifications are
made to local, state, and federal agencies. Proper notifications are vital for the proper tracking
and coordination of incidents for statistical purposes and for obtaining funds for clean-up.
All incidents involving reportable quantities have mandatory notification requirements:
Lyon County Emergency Management
(775) 301-7289 (Duty Number 24 hours)
Nevada State Division of Emergency Management
(775) 687-0498 (Duty Officer 24 hours)

Revised: April 2016

14.6

160

LYON COUNTY

Upon notification to the Nevada State Division of Emergency Management, they will assist in
making appropriate notifications to other various agencies depending on the specific incident
(i.e., Nevada Highway Patrol, U.S. Coast Guard, Environmental Protection Agency, Fish and
Wildlife Department, Tahoe Regional Planning Agency, etc.).
Other Notifications
The following may be contacted for further assistance:

● Law Enforcement. (Dispatch)
● Public Works for personnel, equipment, and material resources such as sand and dirt to
mitigate the incident. (Dispatch)
● Water/Sewer Department to maintain community water systems and provide remedial
action when a hazardous materials incident may affect water sources. (Dispatch)
● Owner of property on which incident occurs.
● Owner of equipment/material causing incident.

Revised: April 2016

14.7

161

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

INCIDENT COMMAND STRUCTURE
FOR HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

4-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to ensure that the Incident Command System is implemented at all
hazardous materials incidents to provide an organizational structure that will provide necessary
supervision and control for the essential functions required. Under 29 CFR 1910.120, an Incident
Command System (ICS) shall be used in managing hazardous materials incident responses.
PROCEDURE
INCIDENT COMMANDER (IC)
The senior emergency response official responding to an emergency will become the IC in charge of the
site-specifics ICS. The IC will control and coordinate emergency response activities and communications.
Command will be passed up a pre-established line of authority as personnel or officials having greater
emergency response seniority arrive and as deemed necessary. Those who are Hazardous Materials
Incident Commander-qualified will take precedence. The IC shall identify the hazards and implement
appropriate emergency operations based on incident-specific conditions. This person must ensure that
all operations are conducted safely.
SAFETY OFFICER
The IC shall designate a Safety Officer who is knowledgeable in the operations involved. The Safety
Officer shall identify and evaluate the hazards, provide direction with respect to the safety of the
operation involved, and establish a site safety plan. The Safety Officer shall have the authority to alter,
suspend, or terminate any activities which, according to their judgment, involve an Immediately
Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH) condition and/or an imminent danger condition. The Safety Officer
shall immediately inform the IC of any actions needed to lessen the hazards involved. In a multi-activity
incident, the Haz-Mat Safety Officer does not act as Safety Officer for the overall incident. That function
is served by the Safety Officer within the command staff.
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS GROUP SUPERVISOR
The Haz-Mat Group Supervisor’s function is under the Operations section of ICS. This individual is
responsible for:

● Implementing all portions of the Incident Action Plan dealing with the Haz-Mat group only.
● Assigning resources and job functions within the Haz-Mat group.
● Reporting to the Branch Director, Operations Chief, or Incident Commander as
directed on progress and status of resources.
● Directing overall activities of the Haz-Mat group.
ENTRY TEAM LEADER
This individual reports to the Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor and is responsible for
managing the entry team operations within the "Exclusion Zone.”

Revised: April 2016

14.8

162

LYON COUNTY

DECONTAMINATION LEADER
This individual reports to the Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor and is responsible for
managing decontamination operations.
SITE ACCESS LEADER
This individual reports to the Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor and is responsible for
managing and tracking the movement of personnel and equipment within the control zones.
The Site Access Leader ensures that contaminants are controlled and records are maintained.
TECHNICAL SPECIALIST FOR HAZARDOUS MATERIALS RESEARCH
The Technical Specialist reports to and provides technical information and assistance to the
Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor. Reference sources such as computer databases,
technical journals, CHEMTREC, and phone contact with facility representatives are used.
MEDICAL UNIT LEADER
The Medical Unit Leader is a function under Logistics and is responsible for providing all medical
care for incident personnel, providing on-site medical monitoring, and transportation if so
needed.
Will assign any or all of the above-mentioned positions rests with the IC.

Revised: April 2016

14.9

163

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Revised: April 2016

14.10

164

LYON COUNTY

Revised: April 2016

14.11

165

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

OPERATIONAL PRIORITIES

5-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to provide operational priorities for persons responding to or
when discovering a hazardous materials incident.
PROCEDURE
The following are priorities and responsibilities for first-arriving companies when confronted
with a hazardous materials incident:
1. Life safety
2. Environmental conservation
3. Property protection
NOTE: Incident stabilization could result in any or all of the above.
The successful management of the hazardous materials incident depends on a team effort of all
divisions of the Fire Department.
FIRST ON SCENE
As soon as arriving units discover that an incident involves hazardous materials, notification
shall follow immediately to any additional responding units dispatched.
Positioning of Apparatus
Apparatus should be positioned uphill and upwind if at all possible. Units should avoid driving
past an incident where there is smoke or visible vapor or locations near visible or potential liquid
run-off. Apparatus should be positioned the following initial safe distance from incident:
Residential
Large structures/industrial
Open areas
Staging area

1 Block
500 feet
1000 feet
2500 feet

ESTABLISH COMMAND
-Initiate Incident Command System and assign a Safety Officer.
-Designate a Staging area.
-Conduct a size-up and determine resource needs.
-Make proper notifications and resource orders.

Revised: April 2016

14.12

166

LYON COUNTY

CONTROL ACCESS
First-arriving apparatus will control access to the hazard area and establish an initial isolation
perimeter (exclusion zone). Only those members wearing proper PPE will be allowed entry.
Protective action (shelter-in-place) shall be considered and implemented if so needed. Number
of personnel operating in or near the exclusion zone shall be kept to a minimum. Entry will be
restricted, and those leaving the scene should be detained in area of safe refuge for
evaluation/treatment.
In all cases, no major fire suppression or control operation will be initiated until the materials
involved and its hazards are identified.
IDENTIFY THE HAZARD
Obtain as much information as possible from as many sources as possible (driver, plant
manager, witness, MSDS, etc.).
Attempts shall be made to identify the product by using labels, placards, shopping papers, or
whatever other means are available. This will be done without undue risk to personnel.
Conduct a Hazard Risk Assessment.
All information concerning the materials and situation will be relayed to responding haz-mat
team units.
MITIGATE THE INCIDENT
Safely perform basic control/containment procedures with resources available.
DECONTAMINATE PERSONNEL
Establish emergency gross decontamination sites prior to set-up of formal decontamination by
Haz-Mat Team.
Provide for emergency medical monitoring and transport prior to Haz-Mat team arrival.
TERMINATION
Debrief the incident, conduct a post-incident analysis, and save all documentation from the
incident.

Revised: April 2016

14.13

167

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

6-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to ensure that an Emergency Response Plan is in place to
provide for personnel safety and to comply with 29 CFR 1910.120.
PROCEDURE
The Emergency Response Plan must be developed and ready for implementation by the
employer prior to the commencement of emergency response operations. This plan must be
adequate for any emergencies which could reasonably be expected to occur on site. The plan
must be in writing and located on the command vehicle for the plan’s jurisdiction, and available
to employees, employee representatives, and OSHA personnel. The plan must address, at a
minimum, the following topics:

●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●

Pre-emergency planning and coordination with outside parties.
Personnel roles, lines of authority, training, and communication.
Emergency recognition and prevention.
Safe distances and places of refuge.
Site security and control.
Evacuation routes and procedures.
Decontamination.
Emergency medical treatment and first aid.
Emergency alerting and response procedures.
Critique of response and follow-up.
Personal protective equipment and emergency equipment.

Emergency response organizations may use their local and/or state ERPs as part of the ERP, if
applicable, to avoid duplication. Emergency response topics which are properly addressed by
existing plans required under SARA Title III need not be duplicated for compliance with 29 CFR
1910.120.

Revised: April 2016

14.14

168

LYON COUNTY

TRAINING AND RECERTIFICATION

7-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to establish a training standard for the Quad County Hazardous
Materials Team Participants when dealing with hazardous materials. This document also
complies with OSHA 1910.120.
PROCEDURE
Training shall be based on the duties and function to be performed by each responder of an
emergency response organization. The skill and knowledge levels required for all new
responders (those hired after the effective date of this standard) shall be conveyed to them
through training before they are permitted to take part in actual emergency operations on an
incident. Employees who participate, or are expected to participate, in emergency response
shall be given training and be able to demonstrate competency in the following areas:
First Responder Awareness Level
1. An understanding of what hazardous substances are, and the risks associated with them in
an incident.
2. An understanding of the potential outcomes associated with an emergency created when
hazardous substances are present.
3. The ability to recognize the presence of hazardous substances in an emergency.
4. The ability to identify the hazardous substances if possible.
5. An understanding of the role of the first responder awareness individual in the employer's
emergency response plan, including the site security and control of the U.S. Department of
Transportation's Emergency Response Guidebook.
First Responder Operations Level
1. Knowledge of the basic hazard and risk assessment techniques.
2. Know how to select and use proper personal protective equipment provided to the first
responder operations level.
3. An understanding of the basic hazardous materials terms.
4. Know how to implement basic decontamination procedures.

Revised: April 2016

14.15

169

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

5. Know how to perform basic control, containment, and/or confinement operations within
the capabilities of the resources and personal protective equipment available within their
unit.
6. An understanding of the relevant standard operating procedures and termination
procedures.
Hazardous Materials Technician
1. Know how to implement the employer’s emergency response plan.
2. Know the classification, identification, and verification of known and unknown materials by
using field survey instruments and equipment.
3. Be able to function within an assigned role in the Incident Command System.
4. Know how to select and use proper specialized chemical personal protective equipment
provided to the haz-mat technician.
5. Be able to perform advance control, containment, and/or confinement operations within
the capabilities of the resources and the personal protective equipment available with the
unit.
6. Understand and implement decontamination procedures.
7. Understand termination process.
8. Understand basic chemical and toxicological terminology and behavior.
Hazardous Materials Specialist
1. Know how to implement the local emergency response plan.
2. Understand classifications, identification, and verification of known and unknown materials
by using advanced survey instruments and equipment.
3. Know the state emergency response plan.
4. Be able to select and use proper specialized chemical personal protective equipment
provided to the hazardous materials specialists.
5. Understand in-depth hazard and risk techniques.
6. Be able to perform specialized control, containment, and/or confinement operations within
the capabilities of the resources and personal protective equipment available.

Revised: April 2016

14.16

170

LYON COUNTY

7. Be able to determine and implement decontamination procedures.
8. Be able to develop a site safety and control plan.
9. Understand chemical, radiological, and toxicological terminology and behavior.
On-Scene Incident Commander
1. Know and be able to implement the employer's incident command system.
2. Know how to implement the employer's emergency response plan.
3. Know and understand the hazards and risks associated with employees working in chemical
protective clothing.
4. Know how to implement the local emergency response plan.
5. Know of the state emergency response plan and the federal response team.
6. Know and understand the importance of decontamination procedures.
REFRESHER/TEAM TRAINING
All Awareness Operations and Decontamination recertification training for agencies participating
in the Quad County Haz-Mat Team will be conducted in-house. Assistance with in- house training
can be provided if necessary. Any level training shall be of sufficient duration and content to
maintain required competencies and shall be demonstrated annually.
All Technicians and Specialists assigned to the Quad County Team will attend at least three of
the four quarterly team drills in order to maintain certification. Each quarterly drill shall be at
least eight (8) hours in length. Each Technician or Specialist shall demonstrate competency on a
yearly basis, up to and including those areas outlined above, and any additional skills specific to
the Quad County Team which reflect the individual’s highest current certification level.
All Haz-Mat IC certified personnel shall attend at least one (1) of the quarterly team drills as
outlined above for Technicians and Specialists. ICs shall demonstrate competency outlined
above on a yearly basis in order to maintain their certification.
All in-house recertification and documentation shall be forwarded to the Carson City
Training Division, where it will be filed on the Haz-Mat response Vehicle as required.

Revised: April 2016

14.17

171

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

DECONTAMINATION

8-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to ensure that any potentially dangerous residues on persons or
equipment are confined within the Exclusion Zone and to comply with Occupational Safety and
Health Standard for General Industry (29 CFR Part 1920.120). Decontamination is intended to
prevent the spread of contaminants beyond the defined area.
PROCEDURE
A decontamination procedure shall be developed, communicated to personnel, and
implemented before any personnel or equipment may enter areas onsite where potential for
exposure to hazardous substances exists. These procedures are to be used by personnel who
respond to a hazardous materials incident whenever the need for decontamination occurs. The
level and the type of PPE worn by decon personnel shall be determined and approved by the
Haz-Mat Team Safety Officer.
The specific measures required to decontaminate personnel or equipment will vary with the
contaminant, the circumstances, and the level of contamination. These factors must be
considered on a case-by-case basis, with the guidelines described in this procedure.
A Decontamination Team is responsible for the actual decontamination procedure and
methods being carried out. The Decontamination Team assembles the necessary equipment
and supplies.
In all cases, the primary objective must be to avoid contaminating anyone or anything beyond
the Exclusion Zone.
Before an entry team goes into the Exclusion Zone, a Decontamination Corridor will be set up
and ready for operation, and medical personnel must be in position to treat and transport any
injured individuals.
Decontamination solutions and formulas shall be decided upon by the Hazardous Materials
Group Supervisor with input from the Decontamination Unit Leader and the Technical Specialist
for Hazardous Materials. All solutions and procedures must be approved by the Haz-Mat Safety
Officer.
Any individual leaving a contaminated area shall be appropriately decontaminated. All
contaminated clothing and equipment leaving a contaminated area shall be decontaminated or
disposed of properly.
Decontamination procedures shall be monitored to determine their effectiveness. When such
procedures are found to be ineffective, appropriate steps shall be taken to correct any
deficiencies.

Revised: April 2016

14.18

172

LYON COUNTY

Decontamination shall be performed in geographical areas that will minimize the exposure of
uncontaminated personnel or equipment to contaminated personnel or equipment.
All decontamination equipment and solvents used for decontamination shall be
decontaminated or disposed of properly.
Reusable protective clothing and equipment shall be decontaminated, cleaned, laundered,
maintained, or replaced as needed to maintain their effectiveness. Single-use items will be
properly disposed of after use.
Any individual whose non-impermeable clothing becomes wetted with hazardous substances
shall immediately remove that clothing and be appropriately decontaminated. The clothing
shall be disposed of or decontaminated before it is removed from the area.
DECONTAMINATION AREA PRECAUTIONS
The Decontamination Area shall be established just outside the Exclusion Zone perimeter
adjacent to the entrance/exit (Entry Control). Personnel and equipment shall not be permitted
to leave the Exclusion Zone without approval from the Decontamination Leader.
The Decontamination Area shall provide a corridor leading away from the source of
contamination toward the exit, with stations along the way for the deposit of tools, equipment,
protective clothing, and other items. Tools may be left at the entry to the Decontamination Area
so that other entry teams may use them if needed. Monitoring personnel and equipment shall
be appropriately placed along the path. A person traveling along the path should experience a
decreasing level of contamination. When spray nozzles are used, adequate space must be
provided to avoid contamination of other areas or persons.
During the decontamination process, all personnel working in the Decontamination Area must
be adequately protected. When hazardous materials are unknown, Level "B" protective
equipment shall be the accepted level of protection for decontamination team members.
When the hazardous materials are known, the accepted level of protection for decontamination
team members shall be no lower than one level below that used by the hazardous materials entry
team.
Any runoff or residue from decontaminating procedures must be contained within the Warm
Zone (Decontamination Area) and retained for proper disposal.
CONTAMINATED PATIENTS
Patients in need of medical treatment shall be removed from the source of contamination as
quickly as possible, but remain within the Exclusion Zone perimeter (Safe Refuge). These
patients must not be allowed to contaminate further areas or persons. It may be

Revised: April 2016

14.19

173

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

necessary to bring treatment personnel (with PPE) into the Exclusion Zone to deal with these
patients, unless they can be rapidly and effectively decontaminated. Once decontaminated, the
patients and treatment personnel may leave the Exclusion Zone.
EMERGENCY GROSS DECONTAMINATION
The responding unit should make every attempt to locate the MSDS sheets or other information
prior to gross decontamination. In the event where an MSDS sheet is not readily available and
the victim’s condition could be considered serious, the following procedure shall occur:
1. Have victim remove their contaminated clothing while emergency personnel don proper PPE
(Level D for Engine Company personnel, Level C for ambulance personnel). In the event the
victim is unable to remove their contaminated clothing, ambulance personnel are to be in
Level "C" PPE prior to removing victim’s contaminated clothing, and flushing with water.
2. Flush contaminated body parts thoroughly with water from the booster line from a distance
in order not to splash any rescuers.
3. Victims who need continuous decontamination are to be loaded onto the Tiger Cat by
ambulance personnel. Ambulance personnel shall continue the decontamination process at
this point.
4. Keep victims warm when possible and prep ambulance for transporting contaminated
patient(s).
5. Contact Haz-Mat Safety Officer for authorization to load patient and/or transport.
TRANSPORTATION
If it is necessary to transport contaminated patients to medical facilities by ambulance, the
receiving hospital must be notified in advance of the nature of the contamination and
decontamination in order to make necessary preparations. The ambulance used shall be
considered contaminated and will have to be decontaminated before being used to transport
any non-contaminated persons. The ambulance shall be brought to the Contamination Reduction
Zone perimeter for loading. Exposed surfaces that the contaminated patient is likely to come into
contact with should be covered with plastic sheeting. The patient shall be as clean as reasonable
prior to transport, and further contact with contaminants should be avoided.
MEDICAL MONITORING AND REPORTS
All members of the Hazardous Materials Group (Entry Team, Backup Team, and
Decontamination Team) shall be medically monitored at every hazardous materials incident
(see Medical Monitoring SOP).

Revised: April 2016

14.20

174

LYON COUNTY

All persons involved in the control zones shall complete an exposure report and be medically
monitored.

Revised: April 2016

14.21

175

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

PROTECTIVE ACTION

9-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to ensure that all private citizens and non-essential emergency
personnel are protected to the highest degree possible from exposure to hazardous materials.
PROCEDURE
During a hazardous materials emergency, it may become necessary to provide protective action
for civilians and/or personnel in an area due to downwind dispersion of poisonous or flammable
vapors, liquid run-off, radioactive hazards, or the threat of an explosion.
Evacuation
Evacuation is the best protective action. Send evacuees to a definite place, by a specified route,
far enough away so they will not have to be moved again if the wind shifts. Evacuation distances
will follow guidelines set forth in available reference material. Advisory (voluntary) - This is a
warning to persons within the area that there is a potential threat to life and property.
Mandatory - This is a warning to persons within an area that an imminent threat to life and
property exists. If occupants refuse to evacuate after being notified of a mandatory evacuation,
it would be questionable judgment to force the issue. The name and address of the person(s)
should be relayed to the Incident Commander, and personnel should move on to reach those
who may wish to be evacuated.
When evacuation is indicated, the Incident Commander shall notify and coordinate with the
Sheriff's Office.
An area can be closed off to air traffic by requesting airspace limitations through the Federal
Aviation Administration.
Shelter-in-Place
Due to the danger of moving people from a building through a vapor cloud, it may become
necessary to protect people in-place and not expose them through evacuation. This may be
considered for special facilities such as hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and penal
institutions.

Revised: April 2016

14.22

176

LYON COUNTY

TEAM ACTIVATION

10-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to assure proper notification of all agencies in the Quad County
Haz-Mat Response Team and ensure proper staffing at Quad County Haz-Mat incidents.
PROCEDURE
All agencies who have complied with the Quad County Team agreement will be considered "On
Line." In the event that any participant cannot provide necessary staffing in accordance with the
agreement, the following procedure shall be followed:
1. Contact Carson Fire Dispatch and advise them of the staffing situation as soon as possible.
2. Advise Dispatch what staffing resources you are short.
3. Carson Dispatch shall inform the Duty BC.
It is the responsibility of the requesting agency to provide support personnel for the team.
However, the Carson City Duty BC may assist the requesting agency by supplementing staffing
based upon Carson City staffing level, availability of additional personnel, and approval of the
Fire Chief or their appointee.
Team Requests
All requests for the Haz-Mat Team shall be received by Carson Fire Dispatch Center (911). Upon
request from any of the participating agencies, Carson Dispatch shall request the following
information:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Location of incident.
Radio frequency, radio identifier, and cell phone number of the Incident Commander.
Materials involved if known.
Best/safest route of travel and staging location.
Name of person requesting Quad County Team.

Carson Dispatch shall notify the Duty BC and provide them with all the information received
from the requesting agency. Carson Dispatch shall notify the dispatch centers for the other
participating agencies listed below after authorization of the Duty BC, inform them of the
activation, and request an update on the total number of technicians who will be responding
from those agencies. Carson Dispatch will relay these numbers back to the Duty BC.
All participating agencies will be responsible for the notification of their personnel to respond to
the incident. All information originally gathered in Items 1 through 5 will be relayed to all the
responding agencies’ dispatch centers by Carson Dispatch.

Revised: April 2016

14.23

177

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

In the event that a minimum of five technicians/specialists is not available, the Duty BC will
direct Carson Dispatch as to which agency to request additional technicians or supplemental
staffing from.
Participating Agencies with Technicians
Carson City Fire: 3 Technicians/Specialists on duty (may call additional techs, if necessary) and
haz-mat vehicle.
Mason Valley FPD: 1 Technician
Nevada Division of Forestry (NDF): 1 Technician/Specialist
Truckee Meadows FPD: 2 Technicians/Specialists
Tahoe-Douglas FPD: 4 Technicians/Specialists

Revised: April 2016

14.24

178

LYON COUNTY

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

11-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to ensure that adequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
will be worn by all personnel who conduct operations within the control zones at hazardous
material incidents, to protect the wearer from safety and health hazards, and to prevent injury
to the wearer from incorrect use and/or malfunction of the PPE.
PROCEDURE
The level of PPE assigned will be determined by a member of the Hazardous Materials Team
and will be approved by the Haz-Mat Safety Officer.
Guide for determining PPE shall come from at least three separate references.
Personal Protective Equipment is divided into four categories based on the degree of protection
afforded.
Level A
To be selected when the greatest level of skin, respiratory, and eye protection is required. Level
A protection should be used when:
1. The hazardous substance has been identified and requires the highest level of protection for
skin, eyes, and the respiratory system, or there is a high potential for splash, immersion, or
exposure to unexpected vapors, gases, or particulate of materials that are harmful to skin or
capable of being absorbed through the skin;
2. Substances with a high degree of hazard to the skin are known or suspected to be present,
and skin contact is possible; or
3. Operations are being conducted in confined or poorly ventilated areas.
Level B
To be selected when:
1. The hazardous substances have been identified and require a high level of respiratory
protection, but less skin protection;
2. The atmosphere contains less than 19.5 percent oxygen; or
3. The presence of incompletely identified vapors or gases is indicated, but vapor gases are
not suspected of containing high levels of chemicals harmful to skin or capable of being
absorbed through the skin.

Revised: April 2016

14.25

179

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

NOTE: This involves atmospheres with IDLH concentrations of specific substances that present
severe inhalation hazards and that do not represent a severe skin hazard, or that do not meet
the criteria for use of air-purifying respirators.
Level C
To be selected when:
1. The atmospheric contaminants, liquid splashes, or other direct contact will not adversely
affect or be absorbed through any exposed skin;
2. The types of air contaminants have been identified, concentrations measured, and an airpurifying respirator is available that can remove the contaminants; and
3. All criteria for the use of air-purifying respirators are met.
Level D
To be selected when:
1. The atmosphere contains no known hazard, and
2. Work functions preclude splashes, immersion, or the potential for unexpected inhalation of
or contact with hazardous levels of any chemical.
NOTE: Structural Firefighting Gear is extremely limited in a hazardous materials incident and
should only be worn after it is classified as "Proper Protective Equipment" (i.e., Level D).
Selection of Proper Protective Equipment must be based on incident-specific conditions and
updated as those conditions change or additional information is generated about the incident.
During an incident involving an unknown substance, Level "A" protection should be used as a
minimum level of protection based on the type of unknown.

Revised: April 2016

14.26

180

LYON COUNTY

MEDICAL MONITORING

12-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to ensure that each individual on the Hazardous Materials
Team is medically monitored to protect the employee’s safety and to comply with OSHA
regulations.
PROCEDURE Pre-Entry
Pre-entry vital signs and weights shall be taken prior to performing any strenuous activity or
donning any chemical protective equipment. Baseline vital signs should include:

●
●
●
●
●

Blood Pressure
Pulse
Respirations
Weight
Temperature

The Medical Monitor shall calculate the following values for each Team member:

●
●
●
●
●

Maximum Heart Rate (220-Age)
85% of Maximum Heart Rate
60% of Maximum Heart Rate
5% Body Weight
3% Body Weight

All information shall be entered on the Medical Monitoring Forms.
Any team member with any of the following conditions shall not be allowed to don Personal
Protective Equipment (PPE). NO EXCEPTIONS.
Temperature > 99.8 degrees F Blood Pressure > 150/90
Heart Rate > 60% of Maximum Heart Rate, or
Respirations > 25
The Medical Monitoring Leader shall obtain Hazard and Toxicity information from the Technical
Specialist - Hazardous Materials Reference. Also, signs and symptoms of chemical exposure shall
be ascertained if the chemical is known.
The Medical Monitoring Leader shall brief on-site EMS crews. The following information, if
known, shall be conveyed:

● Chemical Name

Revised: April 2016

14.27

181

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

●
●
●
●
●
●

Hazard Class and Name
Hazard and Toxicity Information
Potential for Secondary Contamination
Pre-Hospital Management After Initial Decontamination
Procedure for Transfer of Patients to EMS
Pre-Hospital Management of Medical Emergencies

Post-Entry Procedures
After team members doff PPE, they shall immediately proceed to the Medical Monitoring
Station. The Medical Monitors will obtain the following:

●
●
●
●
●
●

Pulse - first minute
Pulse - 3 minutes after first pulse (recovery rate)
Temperature
Weight
Blood Pressure
Respirations

Only one entry per individual, per incident will be allowed.
If any one of the following criteria is met, the team member shall not be allowed to perform
duties requiring the use of PPE for 24 hours:
Pulse > 85% of Maximum Heart Rate
Temperature > 100.4 degrees F
Recovery Heart Rate > 10 BPM (initial pulse - 3 Min. pulse) Blood Pressure
Weight Loss > 3%

> 160/100

The Medical Monitoring Leader shall immediately report the name of any team members
meeting the above criteria to the Safety Officer - Hazardous Materials and the Entry or
Decontamination Leader as appropriate.
Any team member exhibiting signs or symptoms of heat exhaustion or heatstroke, or who has
had a weight loss ≥ 5%, shall be transported by ambulance to the nearest hospital for
evaluation.
Any team member who is exposed to hazardous materials shall be assessed by medical
personnel for signs and symptoms of exposure at toxic levels. Any person exhibiting signs and
symptoms of exposure shall be transported to a hospital emergency department by ambulance
according to local medical guidelines. If the individual is not exhibiting any signs and symptoms
of a hazardous material exposure, the individual may still be required to be evaluated at a
hospital emergency department. This decision shall be based on the opinion of the Haz-Mat
Safety Officer. For any team member who needs transport to the hospital, transportation shall
be arranged through the Medical Unit Leader or appropriate supervisor.

Revised: April 2016

14.28

182

LYON COUNTY

While at the Medical Monitoring Station, team members should drink plenty of water or other
suitable substance for rehydration (Gatorade, Powerburst). Soda, or other liquids containing
caffeine, carbonation, or alcohol will not be allowed.
After all operations are terminated, the Medical Monitoring Leader shall collect all Medical
Monitoring Forms and give them to the Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor. This shall
include documentation for all cost-recoverable items. All recoverable equipment used by the
Medical Monitoring Team should be cleaned and returned to the Haz-Mat Unit. All waste
materials shall be disposed of by the appropriate methods.

Revised: April 2016

14.29

183

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

SITE CONTROL

13-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to minimize the harm resulting from a hazardous materials
incident by proper utilization of site control procedures that will isolate people from hazards
related to the incident and allow an orderly, efficient, and safe response operation.
PROCEDURE
The very nature of the hazardous materials incident makes site control both difficult and
necessary to establish and maintain. Site control measures must be designed to minimize chaos
and to provide direction and efficiency to the response operation. Site control procedures shall
allow for accountability so that the location and status of all personnel and equipment on site
are known at all times during the response operation.
Response personnel not directly involved in activities in the hazard area shall be kept at a safe
distance to minimize the effects of unexpected events, such as explosions or sudden largequantity releases that may enlarge the hazard area.
In an emergency response operation, all boundaries and security measures must be strictly
adhered to, without regard to an individual's status or position. Persons not involved in the
emergency response must be kept outside the site perimeter.
Law enforcement and plant security personnel are generally better trained and equipped for
crowd control and site security than Haz-Mat Team members.
Access Control
The first-in unit’s initial actions shall be to control access to the hazard area and to establish an
isolation perimeter. The isolation perimeter can be considered the outer boundary of the site or
incident scene. This distance may be measured in feet or miles, depending on the specifics of the
incident.
In establishing the isolation area, utilize applicable geographic and physical barriers such as
walls, fences, and bodies of water that will reduce the need for perimeter patrol.
Keep isolation area to a manageable size; it is desirable to make the isolation area as large as
possible. It is easier to reduce the isolation area than to expand it as the response operation
progresses. As crowds and traffic increase around a site, expansion may involve much more than
simply moving barriers. Also, the unpredictable nature of haz-mat incidents makes a large buffer
zone desirable. On the other hand, an isolation perimeter requires valuable resources to patrol.
Inadequate perimeter control that allows unauthorized entry to the site may result in a
breakdown of site control. A smaller perimeter that is secure may therefore be preferable to a
larger perimeter that is not well controlled.

Revised: April 2016

14.30

184

LYON COUNTY

Provide for protective action such as evacuation and/or shelter-in-place (See Protective
Action SOP).
Zoning
After the isolation perimeter has been established, the area within it shall be subdivided into
control zones with distinct lines of demarcation. Site zones shall be plotted on site maps based
on information gathered during assessment of an incident and used in planning and conducting
response operations. These zones shall be called the “Exclusion Zone", the “Contamination
Reduction Zone", and the "Support Zone".
Exclusion Zone
The Exclusion Zone shall contain the actual hazard area. This shall include the location of the
release and any areas to which hazardous substances have migrated or are likely to migrate in
hazardous concentrations. This is the most hazardous location on site, and entry requires the
use of Proper Protective Equipment.
The Exclusion Zone shall be marked in red barrier tape when applicable.
Direct-reading hazard detection equipment can be invaluable in establishing the
Exclusion Zone boundary location.
The Exclusion Zone shall include enough room for mitigation activities to take place and must be
large enough to provide protection for on-scene personnel outside the zone in the event of an
explosion, a fire, a change of wind direction, or an unexpected release during response activities.
Contamination Reduction Zone
The Contamination Reduction Zone serves as a buffer between the Exclusion Zone and the
Support Zone. The Contamination Reduction Zone provides an extra margin of safety from the
primary hazards of the incident for support. The Contamination Reduction Zone shall be marked
with yellow barrier tape when applicable. Decontamination activities shall be performed within
the Contamination Reduction Corridor (CRC), which is a sub-part of the Contamination
Reduction Zone.
Equipment needed to support the primary response operation (such as spare air cylinders,
tools, adsorbents, firefighting equipment, first aid supplies, etc.) may be staged within the
Contamination Reduction Zone. For heavy equipment (such as loaders and backhoes) used in
the Exclusion Zone, a separate decontamination corridor shall be designated and equipped.
Traffic to and from the Contamination Reduction Zone must be controlled to prevent the spread
of contamination. The contamination control line marks the outer boundary

Revised: April 2016

14.31

185

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

of the Contamination Reduction Zone. Contaminated materials shall not be transported
beyond this line.
The CRC shall be located upwind from the Exclusion Zone within the Contamination
Reduction Zone.
Support Zone
The Support Zone shall be the area of an incident scene located beyond the contamination
control line. Command functions and supporting operations are to be carried out in the
Support Zone.
The Support Zone should remain free of contaminants so that no chemical protective equipment
is required for response personnel working in this area.
Access Control Points
Access control lines should be used to mark the different zone boundaries. These points may be
marked with barrier tape. These lines will be used to limit the free access by the public and media
to command and other support operations.

Revised: April 2016

14.32

186

LYON COUNTY

PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS

14-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to comply with OSHA regulations and to ensure that all
personnel have baseline physical examinations.
PROCEDURE
All Hazardous Materials Response Team (HMRT) members will receive a baseline physical
examination and will be placed under a program of medical surveillance.
The medical examination must be conducted:

●
●
●
●
●
●

Before assignment to a haz-mat team.
At least annually during haz-mat team membership.
After overexposure or the appearance of potentially exposure-related symptoms.
Whenever deemed necessary by the physician.
At the time of reassignment to an area or job which does not require medical surveillance.
At the time of termination or reassignment.

No termination or reassignment examination is required if an employee has received a complete
examination within six (6) months of the time of termination or job reassignment, and has had
no significant exposures or potentially exposure-related symptoms since the exam.
Medical examinations must be performed at no cost or loss of pay to the employee, at a
reasonable time and place, and by a licensed physician.
Exams shall include a complete or updated medical and work history, and shall focus on any
symptoms which may be related to chemical exposure. Fitness for duty under site conditions
(such as the use of required PPE under expected temperature extremes) should be emphasized.
An employee covered by the medical surveillance program is entitled to receive a written
physician's opinion. The results of specific exams and tests will be included if requested by the
employee. The opinion must state any medical conditions which require treatment or place the
employee at greater risk due to expected hazards and duties. Any recommended work
assignment limitations will also be included in the written physician's opinion.
The standard mandates confidentiality of medical examination results. Therefore, specific
findings unrelated to occupational exposure cannot be revealed by the examining physician to
the employer.

Revised: April 2016

14.33

187

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

SKILLED SUPPORT PERSONNEL

15-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to serve as a guideline for using skilled support personnel on
hazardous materials incidents.
PROCEDURE
Personnel, not necessarily an employer's own employees, who are skilled in the operation of
certain equipment, such as mechanized earth-moving or digging equipment or crane and
hoisting equipment, etc., and who are needed temporarily to perform immediate emergency
support work that cannot reasonably be performed in a timely fashion by an employer's own
employees, and who will be or may be exposed to the hazards at an emergency response
scene, are not required to meet the training required in CFR 1910.120.
However, these personnel shall be given an initial briefing at the site prior to their participation
in any emergency response. The initial briefing shall include instruction in the wearing of
appropriate personal protective equipment, what chemical hazards are involved, and what
duties are to be performed. All other appropriate safety and health precautions provided to the
employer's own employees shall be used to assure the safety and health of these personnel.

Revised: April 2016

14.34

188

LYON COUNTY

TECHNICAL SPECIALISTS

16-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to provide for the safety of Technical Specialist personnel used
at the scene of a hazardous materials incident, and that all actions will comply with 29 CFR
1910.120, as well as NRS.
PROCEDURE
Specialist personnel who work with specific hazardous substances in the course of their regular
job duties, and are knowledgeable about the hazards of those substances of which the incident
is confronted with, may be called on to provide assistance to the individual in charge of the
response to a hazardous substance release. For example, if two chemicals are accidentally mixed
in an incident, a chemist may be called upon to predict the reaction which will occur. No specific
training requirements for specialist employees are listed in the standard. However, specialist
employees are required to receive training appropriate for their areas of specialization, or to
demonstrate competence in their areas of specialization, annually.
Consultants/Specialists
The following are consultants who have agreed to provide assistance to the Quad County HazMat Team.
Laura Link, J.D. 784-6477 (W) All areas of chemistry 972-0438 (H)
Glen Miller, Ph.D. 784-4108 (W) Bio-Chem, Pesticides 786-0462 (H)
John Nelson, Ph.D. 784-6588 (W) Inorganic

Revised: April 2016

14.35

189

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

TERMINATION

17-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to ensure that proper termination procedures for hazardous
materials incidents are established.
PROCEDURE
Once the final clearance has been obtained from the responsible health agency, it is important
that every hazardous materials incident be formally terminated by a specific, written procedure.
This documentation process should include:

● Safety procedures that were taken.
● Description of site operations.
● Hazards that were faced and lessons learned.
Termination procedures also provide a record of the information and data which may be required
to be documented in order to comply with local, state, and federal laws. They will help prepare
for any litigation procedures that may arise from the incident.
Termination activities should be divided into three phases:
1. DEBRIEFING THE INCIDENT
This debriefing should occur at demobilization as soon as the emergency operation is
completed. Debriefing should include the initial responders, Haz-Mat Response Team,
Decontamination Team, EMS workers, Command Staff, General Staff, Division/Group
supervisors, agency representatives, and other key players as specified by the Incident
Commander. An effective debriefing should:

● Inform responders what hazards they were (possibly) exposed to and explain signs and
symptoms, what actions to take if they exhibit symptoms of exposure, and to ensure
personnel exposure is documented.
● Identify equipment damage and unsafe conditions requiring immediate attention or
isolation for further evaluation.
● Assign information-gathering responsibilities for a Post-Incident Analysis and Critique.
● Summarize the activities performed by Divisions/Groups.
● Reinforce positive aspects of the response.

Revised: April 2016

14.36

190

LYON COUNTY

2. POST-INCIDENT ANALYSIS
Post-incident analysis (PIA) activities should be assigned to a member of the Command Staff. PIA
is a reconstruction of the incident to establish a clear picture of the events that took place during
the incident, and should be started as soon as possible after the emergency phase of the incident.
A brief chronological review of who, what, when, and where should be outlined.
3. INCIDENT CRITIQUES
Critiques for Level II and Level III hazardous materials incidents are mandated by the Final Rule
of 29 CFR 1910. The Incident Commander has the direct responsibility to schedule and organize
the critique. Critiques should be held after the incident has been completely terminated and
information has been gathered and analyzed.

Revised: April 2016

14.37

191

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

TESTING OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

18-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to ensure personnel safety when testing or sampling
hazardous materials.
PROCEDURE
Due to the potentially dangerous nature of testing hazardous materials (Haz-Cat), personnel
shall be required to wear a minimum level of safety gear.
Prior to beginning Haz-Cat or Hazardous Materials testing procedures, personnel shall don
disposable latex gloves, Sarenex/Tyvek suit, and safety glasses. Personnel shall work under a
hood that ventilates the work area to the outside. Avoid breathing the fumes at all times. The
testing of certain materials may require a higher level of PPE to be worn. This recommendation
should come from a Tech/Specialist and be approved by the Haz-Mat Safety Officer.
These safety items will be stored on the Hazardous Materials Response Unit. The latex gloves
and any byproducts of the testing are to be disposed of properly, and the Saranex/Tyvek suits
and safety glasses can be cleaned and reused.

Revised: April 2016

14.38

192

LYON COUNTY

INSPECTING PERSONAL
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

19-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to ensure that all Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is
inspected on a regular basis to provide for personnel safety and to comply with federal
regulations.
PROCEDURE
PPE should be fully inspected before each use. A PPE inspections checklist such as the following
may be used. Refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for individual suit particulars.
General Inspection Procedure (Chemical Protective Clothing-CPC)

● Determine that the clothing material is correct for the specified task at hand.
● Inspect visually for imperfect seams, non-uniform coatings, tears, and malfunctioning
closures.
● Hold Chemical Protective Clothing up to light and check for pinholes.
● Flex the product and observe for cracks and other signs of shelf deterioration.
● If the product has been used previously, inspect it inside and out for signs of chemical
attack, such as discoloration, swelling, and stiffness.
Inspecting Fully Encapsulating Suits

●
●
●
●

Check the operation of pressure relief valves.
Inspect the fittings of wrists, ankles, and neck.
Check the face shield, if so equipped, for cracks, crazing, and/or fogginess.
Total Encapsulating Chemical Protective Suits require periodic pressure testing of whole suit
in-use testing (as described in Appendix A of 29 CFR 1910.120).

Inspecting Gloves

● Before use, check for pinholes. Blow into the glove, and then roll the gauntlet toward the
fingers and hold it underwater. No air should escape.

Revised: April 2016

14.39

193

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

EXCLUSION ZONE ENTRY 20-1
PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to provide for personnel safety when making entry into the
Exclusion Zone of a hazardous materials incident.
PROCEDURE
Prior to entering the Exclusion Zone, the following shall be completed:
1. Hazardous Materials and Safety Action briefings will be given.
2. Decontamination Procedures will be established.
3. Personnel Decontamination Station will be set up.
4. Entry and Back-Up Teams will be in Proper Protective Equipment.
5. The Back-Up Team will be ready and in position.
6. Tools and equipment will be checked.
7. Communications equipment will be checked.
8. Site Safety Plan will be completed
The Entry Team is responsible for making entry into the Exclusion Zone, and accomplishing the
objectives called out for in the Incident Action Plan. All Entry Team members must be Hazardous
Materials Technicians or Specialists. The primary Entry Team shall consist of a minimum of two
people in Proper Protective Equipment. The team must maintain communications with the Entry
Team Leader. The leader must report on conditions inside the Exclusion Zone, identify the
product or gather samples, if necessary, assess the degree of hazard (i.e., size and/or quantity of
spill), and mitigate or contain the hazard as directed.
Back-Up Team
The Back-Up Team shall consist of an equal number of personnel in the same protective
equipment as the Entry Team. They must be prepared to rescue the Entry Team, assist and/or
relieve the Entry Team in the containment of the hazard, and furnish additional equipment or
supplies to the Entry Team as needed.
Technical Support Team
The Technical Support Team provides additional personnel who are not assigned to the Primary
Entry Team or the Back-Up Team. They assist the Primary Entry and Back-Up Teams in donning
PPE, establish and maintain the Haz-Mat Reference Library, assist Entry Team Leader with
maintenance of time records, and maintain communications with Entry Team Leader, Primary
Entry Team, and Back-Up Team.

Revised: April 2016

14.40

194

LYON COUNTY

The individual in charge of the ICS shall limit the number of emergency response personnel at
the emergency site, in those areas of potential or actual exposure to the incident or site
hazards, to those who are actively performing emergency operations. However, operations in
hazardous areas shall be performed using the "buddy system" in groups of two.
Basic Life Support personnel, at a minimum, shall stand by with medical equipment and
transportation capability.
Upon initial entry, representative air monitoring shall be conducted to identify any Immediately
Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH) condition, exposure over permissible exposure limits or
published exposure levels, exposure over a radioactive material's dose limits, or other dangerous
condition such as the presence of flammable atmospheres or oxygen- deficient environments.

Revised: April 2016

14.41

195

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

INJURY - INCIDENT RELATED

21-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to ensure personnel safety and prompt medical attention
following a hazardous materials exposure.
PROCEDURE
Any Hazardous Materials Response Team (HMRT) member or any other response personnel
who suffers an incident-related injury and is displaying symptoms shall be evaluated
immediately to determine the necessary treatment course.
The team member's copy of their physical, which shall be stored in a locked box on the
Hazardous Materials Response Unit, shall accompany the team member to the hospital. Once
the team member has been stabilized, he/she along with their copy of the medical physical,
shall be transported as soon as possible to the nearest hospital. The hospital shall be notified
immediately that a team member is en-route to the facility, and shall also be advised as to the
nature of the injury.

Revised: April 2016

14.42

196

LYON COUNTY

EQUIPMENT REPLACEMENT

22-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to ensure that equipment inventory on the Hazardous
Materials Unit is maintained and ready for response at any given time.
PROCEDURE
The Hazardous Materials Team Members shall recommend minimum inventory amounts that
shall allow an adequate supply of replacement disposable equipment for the Hazardous
Materials Response Unit. The inventory shall be checked by a Hazardous Materials Team
Member on a monthly basis during the first Wednesday of every month, along with any time
that equipment has been removed for response or training.
Ordering procedures for replacement equipment are to follow the current Carson City Fire
Department purchase requisition system.

Revised: April 2016

14.43

197

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

COMMUNICATIONS AT HAZARDOUS
MATERIALS INCIDENTS

23-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to ensure that communication is maintained throughout a
hazardous materials incident.
PROCEDURE
Communication is the key to maintaining control during a response operation. Few things will
throw an incident into chaos faster than a breakdown in communication.
Site activities shall be visually monitored by command staff personnel, when possible. However,
this is not always the case, so communication must be maintained between response personnel.
One radio channel shall be dedicated solely to the use of the Incident Commander (IC) and
Team or Unit Leaders. When entry teams are in the Exclusion Zone, a dedicated channel
shall be used solely for communication between them and their team leader. In all cases,
unnecessary radio communication shall be eliminated.
Communication procedures shall be established prior to entry.
Back-up communication procedures (such as horn blast, bell, or hand signals) shall be developed
and learned by all employees for use in the event of primary communication failure.
When the entry team is required to work out of sight of the Entry Team Leader, a radio check
shall be conducted to confirm communications at regular intervals. If communication cannot be
confirmed during an entry, it may be appropriate to consider that the team members are in
trouble, and the back-up team may need to enter for assistance.

Revised: April 2016

14.44

198

LYON COUNTY

AIR MONITORING

24-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to ensure that personnel at a hazardous materials incident do
not exceed permissible exposure limits. The Carson City Fire Department has adopted and will
adhere to the levels of a hazardous materials incident as developed by the Occupational and
Health Safety Standards for General Industry (29 CFR 1910.120).
PROCEDURE
Monitoring shall be performed where there may be a question of employee exposure to
hazardous concentrations of hazardous substances in order to ensure proper selection of work
practices and personal protective equipment, so that employees are not exposed to levels which
exceed permissible exposure limits, or published exposure levels if there are no permissible
exposure limits, for hazardous substances.
Air monitoring shall be used to identify and quantify airborne levels of hazardous substances to
determine the appropriate level of personal protective equipment.
Initial Entry
In order to monitor conditions in the actual hazard area, an initial entry must be made. Upon
initial entry, representative air monitoring shall be conducted to identify any Immediately
Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH) condition or exposure over permissible exposure limits. If
the material cannot be specifically identified, the hazard it represents shall be classified in one
or more of the following groups:

●
●
●
●

Combustible gases or vapors
Oxygen deficiency or enrichment
Toxic gases, vapors, or particulate
Radioactivity

The objectives must be clearly outlined and communicated before the entry so that the team
can conduct the survey efficiently and leave the hazard area quickly. The initial entry should be
a brief survey of the hazard area to identify and outline areas of high air concentration or other
IDLH conditions.
The entry objectives may include:

●
●
●
●

Establishing that airborne hazards exist or potentially exist at the site.
Locating and delineating areas of high air concentration of the released materials.
Verifying preliminary or existing information with respect to the nature of the release.
Establishing boundaries for the site control zones based on visual observations of the
current location and potential movement of the released materials.

Revised: April 2016

14.45

199

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

● Collecting information related to the specific protective measures and equipment required
for response personnel.
● Collecting information useful in choosing response actions.
Periodic Monitoring
The changing nature of emergency response activities and site conditions makes periodic
monitoring necessary. The objective of this type of monitoring is to detect changes that may
affect the emergency response activities. It may also be necessary to do termination monitoring
to be sure that all sources of contamination have been contained.
Maintenance of Monitoring Equipment
Maintenance and calibration of monitoring equipment shall be done as per manufacturer’s
recommendations. Testing and inspections shall be done periodically to ensure that equipment
is ready to use. If the equipment is battery operated, it may require periodic maintenance such
as charge-discharge cycles or battery replacement. Special maintenance and storage shall be in
accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations.

Revised: April 2016

14.46

200

LYON COUNTY

CLEANUP

25-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to outline the standard operating procedure for the
appropriate cleanup and disposal of hazardous waste and contaminated material for the Quad
County Hazardous Materials Response Team.
PROCEDURE
After the incident has been stabilized and life, environmental, or serious property- threatening
situations have been mitigated, follow-up actions will be taken leading to the appropriate
cleanup of the incident. This action will depend on the situation; products involved; input from
reference sources; industry, state, federal, and local agencies and laws; and any other factors
influencing the outcome of the incident. The Hazardous Materials Response Team (HMRT) will
not normally become involved in cleanup or disposal unless a situation exists for which the
HMRT is uniquely qualified to assist private parties, industry, contractors, and other disposal
agencies.
The HMRT will not transport any type of hazardous waste or material; however, small Level 1
incidents often can be cleaned up and restored to normal services by the local responding
agencies–usually the fire department in conjunction with public works and law enforcement
under the direction of the Environmental Control Authority.
On larger incidents where the responsible party cannot be found, refuses, or is unable to assume
clean-up responsibilities in a timely fashion, there are funds available through state and federal
resources. To access these funds, contact should be made through the Nevada State Division of
Emergency Management.
HMRT personnel will not initiate any call for private disposal contractors. The private party is
responsible for any cleanup and decontamination.
Refer to the Carson City Hazardous Materials Emergency Resource Directory for a list of cleanup companies.

Revised: April 2016

14.47

201

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

WEEKLY INSPECTIONS

26-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to ensure that the Hazardous Materials Response Unit is ready
for response at any given time.
PROCEDURE
The Hazardous Materials Response Unit shall receive a thorough "check-out" on the first Sunday
of each month by a Hazardous Materials Team Member. Any equipment found to be inoperable
shall be tagged, removed from the vehicle, and given to the Captain at Station 2 for repairs or
replacement. Any mechanical problem shall be identified and an appointment with Vehicle
Maintenance shall be made as soon as possible for repairs.
All equipment assigned to the Hazardous Materials Response Unit will be inventoried on the
first Sunday of each month. A complete inventory sheet shall be forwarded to the Battalion
Chief for documentation.
If a Hazardous Materials Response Team member is not on duty, the covering personnel will, at
a minimum, complete the basic vehicle weekly, and the next shift that a Hazardous Materials
Response Team Member is on duty, the weekly or monthly vehicle inspection shall be
completed.
The current inventory list for the Hazardous Materials Response Unit shall be carried in an
appropriate place in the vehicle. All Hazardous Materials Response Team Members shall be
made aware of the location.

Revised: April 2016

14.48

202

LYON COUNTY

INITIAL OPERATIONS

27-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to establish a standard operating procedure that defines the
initial first on-scene operational responsibilities of emergency response personnel when
responding to or when discovering a hazardous materials incident.
PROCEDURE
The first arriving personnel will respond to any incident that is suspected to be involved with
hazardous materials in the following manner:

● Stay upwind and uphill, keep out of low areas, and position vehicle/apparatus away from
incident.
● Isolate the hazard area and deny entry (refer to reference material for initial isolation
distances).
● Establish a command post using the Incident Command System.
● Identify an area of safe refuge and hot, warm, and cold support zones.
● Attempt to identify product without undue risk to personnel.
● Keep unnecessary people away - only those emergency personnel in the proper level of
Proper Protective Equipment and positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus are
to operate within the inner perimeter.
● Determine need for protective action; i.e., evacuation or sheltering-in-place.
● Notify Dispatch that you have a hazardous materials incident.

Revised: April 2016

14.49

203

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

MAINTENANCE OF PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

28-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to ensure that the Proper Protective Equipment is properly
maintained for the safety of the employee.
PROCEDURE
Effective maintenance is vital to the proper functioning of Proper Protective Equipment. The
specific maintenance schedules and procedures shall be in accordance with manufacturer's
recommendations for all reusable items of Proper Protective Equipment.
Maintenance can generally be divided into three levels:

● Level 1: User or wearer maintenance, requiring a few common tools or no tools at all.
● Level 2: Shop maintenance, which can be performed by the employer's maintenance shop.
● Level 3: Specialized maintenance, which can be performed only by the factory or an
authorized repair person.
Each type of Proper Protective Equipment will be classified into the level recommended by the
manufacturer and followed by all team personnel.

Revised: April 2016

14.50

204

LYON COUNTY

STORAGE OF PERSONAL
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

29-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to ensure that Proper Protective Equipment is stored in the
appropriate manner to assure safety of the employee.
PROCEDURE
Storage is an important aspect of Proper Protective Equipment use for emergency responders
since haz-mat equipment is typically not used on a regular basis. Improper storage may lead to
damage due to contact with dust, moisture, sunlight, damaging chemicals, extreme
temperatures, and physical abrasion. The following considerations should be observed in
storing Chemical Protective Clothing (CPC):

● Potentially contaminated clothing should be stored in an area separate from street clothing.
● Potentially contaminated clothing should be stored in a well-ventilated area, with good air
flow around each item.
● Different types and materials of clothing and gloves should be stored separately to prevent
issuing the wrong material by mistake.
● Protective clothing should be folded or hung in accordance with manufacturer's
recommendations.

Revised: April 2016

14.51

205

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

RECORDS AND REPORTS

30-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to ensure that proper records and reports are maintained for
incident documentation and cost recovery. The sample documents provided are standardized
forms utilized by all participants of the Quad County Team. All other forms are designed to
meet the individual organization’s needs and are not included with the samples.
PROCEDURE
The following forms and reports shall be utilized for a Hazardous Materials Response, and shall
be forwarded to the IC for documentation for the incident. Some documents will vary depending
on the format utilized by each organization.
Incident Report - Will be filled out by the Incident Commander to provide documentation of the
incident. This document will vary for each organization.
Hazardous Materials Incident Report - To be filled out by the Hazardous Materials Group
Supervisor to provide an accurate account of situation encountered, service performed,
equipment used, etc. This document will vary for each organization.
Supply/Equipment - To be filled out by the Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor to provide
record of incidents where expendable supplies were used or equipment was used that cannot
be reused or decontaminated.
Medical Record - Will be filled out by the Medical Monitoring Personnel and/or Medical Unit
Leader to provide pre-and post-entry team data for on-scene evaluation.
Incident Command System Forms - To be filled out by the Incident Commander or his designee
as needed to assist officers in site/incident management. These forms shall include:
ICS 201ICS 206
ICS 202ICS 207
ICS 203ICS 209
ICS 204ICS 211
ICS 205ICS 214
Emergency Medical Forms - To be filled out by the Paramedic or Emergency Medical Technician
in charge of the patient(s) as needed. This document will vary for different organizations.
Exposure Report - Will be filled out by the individual responder to provide a record of personnel
contamination or exposure. This document will vary for each organization.

Revised: April 2016

14.52

206

LYON COUNTY

FOG Guide for the Incident Commander - To guide the Incident Commander with all aspects of
the operation.
ICS Command Structure - To assist with the command structure for the various levels of
incidents.
Haz-Mat Checklist – Will assist with identifying operational key points.
Safety Officer Checklist - Supplies a list of areas of responsibilities to be performed by the
Safety Officer.
Evacuation Plan Elements - Provides key elements for construction of a functional evacuation
plan.
State Notification List - Provides a list of state agencies to be contacted at the various levels of
incidents.
Clean-Up Companies - Lists of Haz-Mat clean-up companies that could be utilized.
Site Safety Plan Checklist - Provides a list of elements necessary for proper construction of the
Site Safety Plan.

Revised: April 2016

14.53

207

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

INVESTIGATION

31-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to provide investigation assistance to a hazardous materials
incident.
PROCEDURE
During the course of a hazardous materials incident where it is determined that it will be
necessary to investigate the incident, the following resources should be utilized to assist with
the investigation:
Haz-Mat Investigators
EPA 415-744-2000 Advise on-scene coordinator of situation and request assistance. Travel
time 6-8 hours.

Revised: April 2016

14.54

208

LYON COUNTY

CHEMICAL PROTECTIVE CLOTHING

32-1

PURPOSE
The purpose of this procedure is to provide for firefighter safety regarding hazardous
materials response, and to identify the process and factors to be considered in
maintaining and selecting the proper level of protective clothing and proper level of
respiratory protection during a Haz- Mat incident.
RESPONSIBILITY
It is the responsibility of the incident commander, in conjunction with the HazMat/Assistant Safety Officer, to follow this procedure.
PROCEDURE
When evaluating protective clothing for use at a haz-mat incident, primary concern should
focus upon chemical resistance, the integrity of the entire protective clothing ensemble
(including the garment, visor, zippers, gloves, boots, etc.), and the tasks to be performed.
When evaluating chemical compatibility recommendations, three sources should be
considered, which may include the following:
•

The primary reference source for chemical compatibility recommendations should
be the Chemical Protective Clothing (CPC) manufacturer’s technical
documentation.

•

Other credible sources may include CPC reference manuals and computer databases.

•

Guidelines for the Selection of Chemical Protective Clothing, American
Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists, Inc.

•

Quick Selection Guide to Chemical Protective Clothing, Krister Forsberg, S.Z. Mansdorf.

There may be a conflict in compatibility recommendations between sources. Responders
should initially rely upon the protective clothing manufacturer’s chemical resistance
recommendation. Always select the most conservative data. When evaluating chemical
vapor protective suits; acquire a complete inventory of all suit components and their
construction materials.
Ensemble Selection Consideration
The ensemble selection shall depend on:
• The nature and severity of the hazard.
• The type and duration of the tasks to be performed.
• The performance features and limitations of the available clothing and cost.

Revised: April 2016

14.55

209

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Respiratory Protection
Only positive pressure devices which maintain positive pressure in the face piece during both
inhalation and exhalation should be used during haz-mat response operations.
Decontamination, clean-up, and remedial operations are other examples for such use.
Maintenance and Inspection Procedures
The manufacturer’s maintenance and testing recommendations should be consulted for
maintenance and procedures. Protective clothing shall be fully inspected at the following
benchmarks:
• Upon receipt from the manufacturer or distributor.
• Before and after each use or annually during the first weekly check in the month of
January, whichever comes first.
Level “A” protective clothing shall be pressure tested:
• After each use or annually during the first weekly check in the month of January,
whichever comes first.
At any time a level “A” suit is utilized where the product contaminating the suit material is
unknown or the suit cannot be properly decontaminated, the suit shall be removed from
service.
Documentation and maintenance of all appropriate records shall be recorded for chemical
protective clothing. The documentation shall note each time the clothing is worn and inspected,
maintenance data, unusual conditions or observations, decontamination solutions and
procedures, and dates with appropriate signatures. This documentation shall be kept in a binder
on the Haz-Mat Van.

Revised: April 2016

14.56

210

LYON COUNTY

RADIOLOGICAL RESPONSES

33-1

PURPOSE
• To reduce the potential for human casualties and the destruction of public and private
property.
• To provide a coordinated response by city, state, and federal resources.
The Fire Department, Sheriff’s Office, and Nevada Highway Patrol are usually the first on- scene
in the event of most transportation accidents. When such accidents involve radioactive material,
first responders shall implement radiation exposure reduction techniques, including the use of
time, distance, and shielding principles.
PROCEDURE
The following are priorities and responsibilities for first-arriving companies when confronted
with a hazardous materials incident involving radiological material:
•
•
•

Life safety
Environmental conservation
Property protection

Note: Incident stabilization could result in any or all of the above.
First On-Scene
As soon as arriving units discover that an incident involves radiological hazardous materials,
notification shall follow immediately to any additional responding units dispatched. Apparatus
shall be properly positioned, and the following initial safe distance criteria shall be followed:
Residential
Large structures/industrial
Open areas
Staging area

1 block
500 feet
1,000 feet
2,500 feet

Other Operations to Establish
• Command/safety
• Staging
• Identifying the hazard
• Conducting a hazard risk assessment

Revised: April 2016

14.57

211

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Incident Operations
The State Department of Human Resources, Health Division, Radiological Section, has the
primary responsibility for response assistance and radiological emergencies as stated in NRS
459. The Health Division, Radiological Section, will provide monitoring, evaluation of dose and
dose rates, and consultation concerning containment and disposal of radioactive material. In
addition, the United States Department of Energy, Nevada Operations Office, under agreement
with the State of Nevada, will provide radiological assistance upon request by the state. If
requested, the Nevada Department of Energy will provide a radiological assistance team,
laboratory analysis, whole body counters, meteorological assistance, aerial survey, and cleanup operations for those incidents which involve spill or release of radiological material. The
Nevada Division of Emergency Management (DEM) will provide a point of coordination for
radiological emergencies. DEM has telephone numbers for federal, state, and city personnel and
resources, in addition to businesses that have the technical expertise and equipment to contain
and dispose of radiological material.

Revised: April 2016

14.58

212

LYON COUNTY

Tank Fire Response
Tank Fires
Strategy and Tactics
A PASSIVE STRATEGY should be used when there is little chance of extinguishing a tank fire
and the area may have to be evacuated because of the possibility of a boil over or other life
threatening reason.
 Personnel and materials (foam and water) are insufficient for a safe and complete
extinguishment attempt.
 Recommended foam application rates and times cannot be met.
 There is imminent danger of a boil over, tank failure, or other life-threatening occurrence,
dictating immediate evacuation of the area.
A DEFENSIVE STRATEGY should be used when there is little chance of extinguishing a tank fire
but the area will not have to be evacuated. The fire fighters should take action to confine the
fire within the tank and minimize exposure damage; however, when additional personnel and
equipment become available, the strategy shifts to an offensive one. Typically this would occur
when the Operations Fire Team handles the initial response and is relieved by the Fire Brigade.
AN OFFENSIVE STRATEGY should be used when sufficient foam supplies, equipment, and
personnel are available to extinguish the fire.
The following factors should be considered when an offensive attack on a tank fire is
contemplated:
 Adequate foam supplies and equipment must be available to apply foam at the
recommended application rates.
 Weather should permit extinguishment.
 When foam is applied to a hot burning liquid (for example, an asphalt tank), a slopover
should be anticipated and appropriate action plans developed.

 Leave unmanned water streams in place.
 Sound the fire ground evacuation

Revised: April 2016

14.59

213

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Defensive Tactics
Defensive tactics are considered when intervention cannot immediately and safely influence
the outcome of the incident. Defensive tactics may include:
 Cooling flame impingement immediately, with the following priorities:
Exposed Pressurized Tanks - Cool the area exposed to flame or heat above the liquid level to
maintain structural integrity and lower the vessel’s internal pressure. At points of flame
impingement, apply cooling agent quickly to prevent vessel failure and the resulting boilingliquid-expanding-vapor explosion (BLEVE). BLEVEs have been documented to occur in about
10 minutes. Cool areas of direct flame impingement on vessels that may be caused by flames
from pressure relieving devices.
Exposed Atmospheric Tanks - Protect by cooling the roof (excluding floating roofs) and the
tank shell above the liquid level.
Exposed Product Line Valves and Flanges - Bolted flanges and repair clamps have exposed bolts
that lengthen when exposed to flame impingement or high heat loads. Gaskets exposed to high
heat often fail, which can result in the release of additional quantities of fuel. Cooling of these
areas should be coordinated with extinguishment efforts. Product pipeline valves must be
protected from the outset because they may have to be operated (opened and closed) during
firefighting operations. This is especially important if a product pump-out or subsurface
injection through the product line is to be attempted.
Exposed Product Piping - If product piping is blocked in, it can fail when exposed to flame
impingement or high heat loads. Maintain flow through piping, if possible, to carry away heat
and reduce risk of failure.
Radiant Heat Exposures - Without direct flame impingement to mitigate the effects of radiant
heat, water must be applied directly to the surface requiring protection. Radiant heat
protection is generally not a high priority. Stop cooling a radiant heat exposure if a cooling
stream produces no steam or quick flash-off of cooling water. This test should be made
periodically to verify the heat load on the vessel or structure in question. Consideration should
be given to the tank product and temperature. Cooling water may be desirable for light
products and/or high storage temperatures. Water walls and water curtains should not be used
because they waste water and are of questionable effectiveness. Be alert for potential drainage
problems caused by excessive use of water.

 Extinguish any ground fires with foam and prevent these fires from spreading to other
areas.

Revised: April 2016

14.60

214

LYON COUNTY

Offensive Tactics

 Maintain the integrity of the tank penetrations by controlling ground fires.
 Secure all valves, flanges, pumps, mixers, manways, etc. with cooling streams. Isolate as
necessary.
 Protect adjacent tanks from impingement flame and heat.
Wet steel is good steel…Dry steel is bad steel
 Request drawings of the area.
 Determine all of the pipeline products within the tank dike area and in the overhead.
 Be aware of electrical conduits in the dike area.
 Be aware of levels in the tank, levels in the dike and water being applied. Water
management is a key issue.
 Foam Application: Refer to the tank pre-plans for foam requirements.
Caution: Do Not begin foam operations until all of the required foam is on site. Exception is
for Life Safety.

Revised: April 2016

14.61

215

216

LYON COUNTY

SECTION15: HAZARD AND RISK ANALYSIS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Risk Assessment ......................................................................................................................... 15.2
Overview .................................................................................................................................... 15.2
Hazard Analysis .......................................................................................................................... 15.3
Hazard Identification.................................................................................................................. 15.4
Chemical Identity ....................................................................................................................... 15.5
Level of Response ......................................................................................................................15.5
Determining Level of Incident .................................................................................................... 15.5
Response Capabilities ................................................................................................................15.7
Major Transportation Routes Map ............................................................................................15.8
Motor Transport ........................................................................................................................15.9
Overview .................................................................................................................................... 15.9
Railroad .................................................................................................................................... 15.14
Overview .................................................................................................................................. 15.14
Pipeline.....................................................................................................................................15.16
Overview Kinder Morgan Pipeline ........................................................................................... 15.16
Pipeline Location - North Lyon County ....................................................................................15.16
Hazard Analysis ........................................................................................................................ 15.16
Vulnerability Analysis ............................................................................................................... 15.17
Risk Analysis ............................................................................................................................. 15.17
Summary .................................................................................................................................. 15.19
Location of Pipeline Isolation Valves ...................................................................................... 15.19
Overview Paiute Pipeline ......................................................................................................... 15.20
Responder Notes..................................................................................................................... 15.20
Rivers and Associated Waterways ........................................................................................... 15.21
Truckee River ........................................................................................................................... 15.21
Overview .................................................................................................................................. 15.21
Hydrologic Overview of the Truckee River Basin ..................................................................... 15.21
Fernley Area ............................................................................................................................. 15.21
The Carson River ...................................................................................................................... 15.22
Overview .................................................................................................................................. 15.22
Travel Time for River and Waterway Flows ............................................................................. 15.22
Bulk Fuel Storage Facilities....................................................................................................... 15.24
Overview .................................................................................................................................. 15.24
Future Location of Fixed Facilities ........................................................................................... 15.28
Overview .................................................................................................................................. 15.28
Reporting..................................................................................................................................15.28
Determining the Location ........................................................................................................ 15.28

Revised: April 2016

15.1

217

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Risk Assessment
Overview
The following Risk Assessment will examine the risks of a hazardous materials release within
Lyon County, Nevada.
Emergency planners, fire services, police departments, medical services and environmental
protection departments can use this risk assessment as they prepare for, respond to, and
recover from emergencies involving hazardous materials. The information provided in this
overview is applicable to the risk assessments performed in the following areas:
•
•
•
•
•

Motor Transportation
Railroad
Pipeline
Waterways, Ditches and Canals
Fixed Facilities

It should be understood by all persons, who refer to this section of the plan that hazard analysis
is an ongoing process that provides information to assist the emergency response teams in
mitigating a hazardous materials release.
This document should be considered a "living document" and as such needs to be cared for and
maintained. Information gathered here conceivably can be outdated by the time it’s distributed.
Our entire system that we live in is changing on a daily basis and while the principles that
contribute to this assessment will remain sound, the numbers will change and so must the
preparedness. Therefore, qualified emergency response personnel should NOT use this section
without competent review, verification and correction. Nothing in this section shall be
determined as an obstacle to the experience, initiative, and ingenuity of the responders in
overcoming the complexities that exist under actual emergency conditions.
The three guidelines used in preparation of this report are:
SARA Title III
SARA Title III Section 303, also known as the Community Right to Know Act, requested the NRT
to publish guidance to assist LEPCs with development and implementation of comprehensive
hazardous materials emergency response plans.
NRT-1 National Response Team (NRT) Hazardous Materials Planning Guide
A government emergency planning document developed in March 1987 by a panel of 14
federal agencies to give guidance to LEPC hazardous materials planning.
Technical Guidance for Hazard Analysis
Emergency planning for Extremely Hazardous Substances published by the USEPA, FEMA, and
USDOT in December 1987. This document offers information on “how to” conduct a hazardous
analysis.
Revised: April 2016

15.2

218

LYON COUNTY

Hazard Analysis
Comprehensive planning depends upon a clear understanding of what hazards exist and what
risk they pose to personnel, property and the environment. Hazard Analysis is a three step
decision-making process used to identify the potential hazards within a community. The three
steps include hazard identification, vulnerability analysis, and risk analysis. A brief overview is
presented below:
Hazard Identification typically provides specific information on situations that have the
potential for causing injury to life or damage to property and the environment due to a
hazardous materials spill or release.
Vulnerability Analysis identifies areas in the community that may be affected or exposed,
individuals in the community who may be subject to injury or death from certain specific
hazardous materials, and what facilities, property or environment may be susceptible to
damages should a hazardous materials release occur.
Risk Analysis is an assessment of the probability of an accident and the actual consequences
that might occur based on the estimated vulnerable zones. Risk analysis is the judgment of
probability and the severity of consequence based on the history of previous incidents,
experience and the best available current technological information.
The hazard analysis looks at hazardous materials located in fixed facilities and in transportation
corridors. The following description defines the diversity of the hazardous products that move
through Lyon County.
1. Transportation Routes - Highways, railways, and commercial and military aviation routes
constitute a major threat because of the multitude of chemicals and hazardous substances
transported along them. Interstate 80, Highway 95 and Highway 50 (including their
alternates), and other main thoroughfares are areas of concern, as is the Union Pacific
railroad tracks.
2. Pipeline - Several pipelines transect the Lyon County corridor carrying a wide variety of
products for industrial, commercial and residential use. The Kinder Morgan Pipeline
Company, possibly the largest of the pipelines, services Northern Nevada Bulk Storage
Facilities and the Fallon Naval Air Station with petroleum products. The Paiute Pipeline and
subsidiaries supply high-pressure natural gas for service to the communities and businesses.
3. Business and Industry - The manufacturing and light industrial firms within Lyon County
offer the potential for hazardous materials incidents. These facilities use and/or store
products that may be harmful to the population living and working in the area, and to the
sensitive ecosystems of the region.

Revised: April 2016

15.3

219

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

4. Agriculture - Accidental releases of pesticides, fertilizers, and other agricultural chemicals
may be harmful to human health and the environment. The majority of agricultural
industry consists of ranching and farming operations located throughout Lyon County.
5. Illegitimate Business - Illegitimate business, such as clandestine drug laboratories, are a
significant threat to human health, property, and the environment. In many instances, the
residue is dumped in remote areas of the county or along the side of the road, posing a
serious health threat to the unsuspecting person who stumbles across it.
6. Hazardous Waste - Hazardous waste (e.g., used motor oil, solvents, or paint) is occasionally
dumped in remote areas of the county or along roadways. Like drug lab residue, illegally
dumped hazardous waste poses a threat to human health, property, and the environment.
7. Radioactive Materials - Interstate 80, Highways 50 and 95, other main thoroughfares and
the railroads are authorized routes for the shipment of radioactive materials.
8. Acts of Terrorism - Terrorist acts are becoming more common today and much more
sophisticated. Events of recent years have prompted a move towards terrorist
preparedness.
Hazard Identification
The U.S. Department of Transportation (HM-181) divides hazardous materials into nine major
hazard classes. A hazard class is a group of materials that share a common major hazardous
property, i.e., radioactivity, flammability, etc. These hazard classes include:
Class 1-Explosives
Class 2-Compressed Gases
Class 3-Flammable Liquids
Class 4-Flammable Solids
Class 5-Oxidizers
Class 6-Toxic and Infectious Substances*
Class 7-Radioactive Materials**
Class 8-Corrosives
Class 9-ORMD-Other Regular Materials (Dangerous)
Notes:
*The words “poison and poisonous” are synonyms with the word “toxic”.
**Radioactive and Department of Defense (DOD) shipments are not subject to Department of
Transportation (DOT) shipping regulations. Radioactive material is the least carried of the
hazard classes listed above.
In some emergency response procedures for DOT hazard classes, a distinction is made between
bulk or package quantities. Bulk indicates quantities that equal or exceed 110 gallons liquid or
1,000 pounds. Package quantities are less than these quantities.
Revised: April 2016

15.4

220

LYON COUNTY

"Other Regulated Materials (ORMS)" are materials that do not meet the definitions of
hazardous materials, but possess enough hazardous characteristics that they require some
regulation.
Chemical Identity
Hazardous Material - Is a substance (solid liquid, or gas) capable of posing an unreasonable
risk to health, safety, environment or property.
Extremely Hazardous Substances (EHS) - EPA uses this term for chemicals that must be
responsible pursuant to SARA, Title III. The list of these substances and the threshold planning
quantities are identified in 40 CFR 355. Releases of extremely hazardous substances as defined
by EPA must be reported to the National Response Center.
Highly Hazardous Substance - Hazardous substance, as used by the Nevada State Emergency
Response Commission, encompasses every chemical regulated by both the Department of
Transportation (hazardous materials) and the Environmental Protection Agency (hazardous
waste), including emergency response. (See listing in Appendix)
Level of Concern (LOC) - The concentration of an extremely hazardous substance (EHS) in the air
above which there may be serious irreversible health effects or death as a result of a single
exposure for a relatively short period of time. (Typically one-tenth the Immediately Dangerous
to Life and Health value established in the NIOSH Guide)
Note 1: The LEPC can declare the LOC for any EHS product.
Note 2: The LEPC can declare any site or product eligible for planning.
Level of Response
Level of response is described in two methods; Level I, II, III - describing the type of scene
response and Level "A" or "B" describing the capabilities of the response team. The following
narrative explains each of the level types for the purpose of allowing the reader to understand
the intent of this document.
Determining Level of Incident
Hazardous materials incidents are classified into three levels, determined by their complexity.
Graduating from Level I (least serious) to Level III (most serious), the magnitude of the
emergency will determine the extent of involvement from local, state and federal agencies.
From the initial size- up, an incident commander must be able to determine the level of
emergency, at least for the purpose of making the appropriate notifications.

Revised: April 2016

15.5

221

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Level I
Level I emergencies are those minor incidents that can be handled within the capabilities
of the initial responders. Level I spills are those releases that involve less than the
reportable quantity (RQ) established for that particular substance by the reporting
requirements which is contained in the CERCLA and SARA Title III statutes.
For example: a motor vehicle fuel spill of less than forty-two (42) gallons, or a release of
anhydrous ammonia of less than 100 lbs.
Level II
These incidents are more complex, in that they usually require a significant resource commitment,
and/or a level of expertise beyond the normal capabilities of the responding agency. Level II
incidents require activation of the local hazardous materials area response plan with notification
to state and federal agencies, and may require local evacuation. Spills of motor vehicle fuels in
excess of forty-two gallons and spills involving established RQs (reportable quantities) or any
quantity of an unknown substance fall into this category
Level III
A level III emergency is a major incident that has escalated beyond the capabilities of local and
state agencies to handle. Therefore, a level III emergency requires the intervention of federal
agencies, such as the EPA. These are the "worst case scenarios," such as a major train derailment
or an airplane crash, and require the establishment of a unified command structure and scene
management system. Level III incidents require mandatory reporting to the National Response
Center (1-800-424-8802).
Level "A" and "B"
It is important to understand the difference between Level "A" and Level "B" capabilities. Level "A"
and "B" refers to a classification of personal protective clothing (PPE). It can also be thought of as
the level of response capabilities of a team because the selection of PPE is directly related to the
type of hazardous material involved in the release. The following explanation is provided in
common terms for clarity.
Level A protection is required when the greatest potential for exposures to hazards exists, and
when the greatest level of skin, respiratory, and eye protection is required. The following are
examples of appropriate Level A equipment:
• Positive pressure, full face-piece self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) or positive
pressure supplied air respirator with escape SCBA.
• Totally encapsulating vapor/splash chemical resistant suit.
• Inner and outer chemical resistant gloves.
• Steel toe, steel shank chemical resistant boots.
Meeting any of the following criteria warrants use of Level A protection:
• Hazardous substances which have been identified and require the highest level of
protection for skin, eyes, and respiratory system;
• The atmosphere contains less than 19.5% oxygen;
Revised: April 2016

15.6

222

LYON COUNTY

•
•
•

Site operations involve a high potential for splash, immersion, or exposure to unexpected
materials that are harmful to the skin;
Operations are being conducted in confined, poorly ventilated areas, and the absence of
hazardous materials has not yet been determined; or
Direct reading instruments indicate a high level of unidentified vapors or gases in the
air it may be necessary to base the decision to use Level A protection on indirect evidence.
Other conditions that may indicate the need for Level A protection include:

•
•
•
•

Confined spaces;
Suspected or known highly toxic substances, especially when field equipment
is not available to test concentrations;
Visible indicators such as leaking containers or smoking chemical fires; and,
Potentially dangerous tasks, such as initial site entry.

Level B protection is required under circumstances requiring the highest level of
respiratory protection, with a lesser level of skin protection. Potential Level B
equipment includes:
• Positive pressure, full face-piece SCBA or positive pressure supplied air respirator
with escape SCBA;
• Inner and outer chemical resistant gloves;
• Chemical resistant steel toe and steel shank outer boots;
• Liquid/splash chemical resistant fully encapsulating suit.
Meeting any of the following criteria warrants use of Level B protection:
• The type and atmospheric concentration substances have been identified and require
a high level of respiratory protection, but less skin protection than Level A;
• The atmosphere contains less than 19.5% oxygen; or
• The presence of incompletely identified vapors and gases is indicated but they
are not suspected of being harmful to the skin.
Response Capabilities
Lyon County agencies are currently upgrading all responders to the First Responder
Operations Level including decontamination. A recommendation for a contractual
agreement for additional support from a private company providing First Responder
Technician Level capability is pending.
29CFR1910.120
Response to hazardous materials events is strictly regulated by 29CFR1910.120 (CFR:
Code of Federal Regulations). These regulations specifically address required levels of
training for all responders and what they can or cannot do on the scene of a hazardous
materials event. In California the equivalent to 29CFR is Title 8, additionally NFPA
standard 471-472 deal with suggested HAZMAT protocols.

Revised: April 2016

15.7

223

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Revised: April 2016

15.8

224

LYON COUNTY

Motor Transport Risk Assessment
Overview
Lyon County has several roadways designated within the Interstate or US Highway system.
• Interstate-80 crosses northern Lyon County east to west through the Town of Fernley.
• US Highway 95-Alt. enters Lyon County near Schurz, Nevada and runs in a northerly
direction until it intersects with I-80 in Fernley.
• US Highway 50 runs in an east-west route entering Lyon County at the Carson City line and
leaving Lyon County approximately four miles west of the Lahontan Dam.
• US 50-Alt. leaves Fernley at the southeastern edge of town and run in a southeasterly
direction through Hazen and onto Fallon.
• Additional state highways include State Route 339, State Route 341, and State Route 208.
These highways provide a domestic transportation corridor linking the Lyon County
communities to one another.
There have been several studies regarding hazardous materials commodity shipments through
these corridors. NDOT did a study in 1993, the State Emergency Response Commission did a
study in 1995 and ERT Consulting completed a snap shot survey in 1999. These reports vary due
to the time of year, time of day and the other variables. They do, however, give an indication of
commodity travel through Lyon County.
Unfortunately, no new studies have been performed. However, the development of major
industrial uses, including manufacturing and warehousing, has produced an increase in the
transportation of goods within Lyon County and the region.
The focus of these studies was based on the major transportation corridors. Obviously the I-80
Corridor is the one corridor that has the most truck movement on a month by month basis. The
weigh station operated by the California Highway Patrol in Truckee, California reports an average
of 40,000 trucks a month that pass through that facility. Approximately 8% of the trucks or 3,200
trucks per month display hazardous materials placards. Assuming each vehicle had an average
load weight of 35,000 lbs. that would convert to approximately 56,000 tons of placarded material
a month moving through the I-80 corridor.

Revised: April 2016

15.9

225

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Nevada Department of Transportation
*Total tonnage of hazardous materials transported through the I-80 corridor by
class percentage daily.
Tons
Class 1 - Explosives
5.0%
114.13
Class 2 - Gasses
10.2%
230.20
Class 3 - Flammable liquid
49.0%
1109.23
Class 4 - Flammable Solids
1.6%
36.20
Class 5 - Oxidizers and organic peroxides
7.7%
174.73
Class 6 - Toxic materials and infectious substances
1.9%
43.71
Class 8 - Corrosive materials
23.7%
536.46
Class - Misc. dangerous goods
0.7%
16.89
Total
2217.84

ERT Consulting Snap Shot Study
Wednesday, April 14, 1999
8 hour period
Interstate 80
Total trucks - 701
Hourly average - 87.5
Vehicles placarded - 42
Products Carried included:
Flammable Liquid
Corrosives
Hydrochlorite solution
Caustic soda

Revised: April 2016

15.10

226

LYON COUNTY

Nevada State Emergency Response Commission
Interstate 80 Flow Analysis
Road Miles in Community (first response coverage)

Value
60

Placarded Loads

150

Source
Miles of highway within
jurisdiction
NDOT maximum daily count

Placarded Loads

8850

Cell 1 X Cell 4

Per Million Miles

0.00885

Cell 4/1,000,000

Nevada’s Accident Frequency (per million miles)

2.07

Given

Expected Accident Frequency for Placarded Loads

0.0183195

Cell 10 X Cell 8

Normalized Segment Study Hours

1

24 Study hours/24

Expected accidents with Placarded Loads per year 7
Expected Accident Frequency = 1 ever

Cell 12/Cell 14 * 365

2 months

US 95 ALT. and Highway 50 each have a considerable amount of truck traffic averaging
approximately 140 trucks during the daytime hours and 120 trucks during the evening traffic.
Approximately 10% of these vehicles consisted of placarded loads the majority of which were
hydrocarbons.

ERT Consulting Snap Shot Study
Wednesday, April 02, 1999
8 hour period - daytime
Intersection of US 50 and Alt 95
Total trucks - 140
Vehicles placarded - 14
Primary Products Carried included:
Flammable Liquid
Corrosives
Resin
Propane

Revised: April 2016

15.11

227

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

ERT Consulting Snap Shot Study
Wednesday, April 05, 1999
8 hour period - Evening
Intersection of US 50 and Alt 95
Total trucks - 121
Vehicles placarded - 15
Products Carried included:
Flammable Liquid
Corrosives
Resin
Nevada State Emergency Response Commission
US 95 Alt. North/South
Condition
Road Miles in Community (first response
coverage)
Placard Loads
Placard Miles
Per Million Miles
Nevada's Accident Frequency (per million miles)
Expected Accident Frequency for Placarded
Loads
Normalized Segment Study Hours
Expected accident with Placarded
Loads per year
Expected Accident Frequency = 1 every
Nevada State Emergency Response Commission
US 50 East/West
Condition
Road Miles in Community (first response
coverage)
Placarded Locals
Placarded Miles
Per Million Miles
Nevada's Accident Frequency (per million miles)
Expected Accident Frequency for
Placarded Loads
Normalized Segment Study Hours
Expected accidents with Placarded
Loads per year
Expected Accident Frequency = 1 every

Revised: April 2016

Value
48

Source
Miles of highway to which
first responders automatically
respond
30
Count
1440
Cell 1 X Cell 4
0.00144
Cell 4/1,000,000
2.07
Given
0.0029808 Cell 10 X Cell 8
1.75
0.62

42 Study hours/24
Cell 12/Cell 14*365
19.30 months

Value
62

Source
Miles of highway to which
first responders automatically
respond
10
Count
620
Cell 1 X Cell 4
0.00062
Cell 4/1,000,000
2.07
Given
0.0012834 Cell 10 X Cell 8
1.75
0.27

42 Study hours/24
Cell 12/Cell 14 *365
44.8 months
15.12

228

LYON COUNTY

Communities may be at risk when delivery routes are near residential areas. National statistics
have shown that the majority of accidents involving tractor trailer rigs occur during turning
operations in city areas. Lyon County should identify the products being transferred, the method
of delivery, frequency of delivery and the primary and secondary routes to be used when
considering issuance of a hazardous materials permit to a fixed facility.

Revised: April 2016

15.13

229

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Railroad Risk Assessment
Union Pacific Railroad - 24hr. Emergency Number 1(888) 877-7267
Overview
The Union Pacific Railroad maintains a main line track that travels east and west through the City
of Fernley in North Lyon County. Data supplied by Union Pacific for the calendar year of 1998
consisted of a total of 10,352 loads of hazardous materials. It is interesting to note that
substantially more hazardous materials move westbound than eastbound. The amount of
westbound hazardous materials is almost 3 times that of eastbound traffic.

Union Pacific Railroad
2011 Hazardous Materials Commodity Report
Car loads
Intermodal loads
Total
Hazard Class
Class 1
Class 2
Class 3
Class 4
Class 5
Class 6
Class 7
Class 8
Class 9
CL

4,381
0
4,381
Number of Loads
0
996
1,096
31
21
7
0
1,072
690
468

It should be noted that these loads can and will be mixed with other freight being moved by the
train on any given day. The amount of hazardous materials transported is dictated by product
demand and can vary based on the season. (Example: Substantially more hydrocarbons will be
shipped in the winter months than summer.)
Additionally Union Pacific has a spur line that runs from the Hazen area south through Silver
Springs on to Wabuska, terminating at the munitions depot in Hawthorne. The spur, named the
Throne Branch, belongs to the federal government from Wabuska to Hawthorne. Either Union
Pacific or a contract engine located at the depot may be used to move munitions on that portion
of the spur. The Hawthorne plant is primarily used for either storage or milling of explosives.
Most information regarding the munitions is considered classified. Responders need to
understand the following rules of engagement regarding haz-mat incidents on the area of track
from Hazen to Hawthorne.

Revised: April 2016

15.14

230

LYON COUNTY

1. Emergency Response Guide (ERG) Book or standard placards may not apply to Department
of Defense shipments; therefore, shipments may not be placarded.
2. Any suspected hazardous materials incident on or near the spur involving munitions
between Wabuska and Hawthorne should NOT BE HANDLED by local response. Standard
isolate and deny entry protocols should be employed as prescribed in the ERG Guide 112.
3. Contact 24-Hour Dispatch Center at (775) 945-7555 and request assistance. They will send
specially trained personnel to handle the situation or provide technical assistance in what
can or cannot be done.
Union Pacific is acutely aware and proactive in preparation for any incident that may occur and
are well prepared to respond in the event of a train related incident. (See main plan "Notification
Section" for immediate response guidelines).

Revised: April 2016

15.15

231

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Pipeline Risk Assessment
Fuel Pipeline
Kinder Morgan - 24hr. Emergency Numbers:
Reno, NV (775) 358-6971
Orange, CA (213) 624-9461.
Overview Kinder Morgan Pipeline
Kinder Morgan operates an underground pipeline that transports approximately 13 million
barrels of petroleum products (gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel) from the pump station in Rocklin,
California to the Sparks, Nevada Terminal. Jet fuel is then pumped from the Sparks terminal to
the Fallon Naval Air Station. Kinder Morgan also shares a storage facility in the City of Sparks.
Fuel enters the pipeline in Rocklin, California and traverses the western slope of the Sierra with
booster pumps at Colfax and Cisco Grove. Once the fuel reaches Donner Summit gravity forces
the fuel the rest of the way to Sparks. The pipeline varies in size from 6 inch to 10-inch diameter
and was constructed in the 1950's of high-grade steel pipe. Valves have been installed at the
most critical locations along the pipe. These valves are a combination of automated motor driven
block valves and manual block valves located along the full length of the pipeline (see table). The
motor driven block valves can be operated remotely from the terminal. All the valves can be
operated manually onsite.
Pipeline Location - North Lyon County
The Fallon Naval Air Station portion of the pipeline follows Highway 80 and the railroad right-ofway for about 16 miles to the Tracy power plant. East of the Tracy power plant, near the Eagle
Pitcher Mine, the pipeline veers to the south leaving the Truckee River and railroad corridor for
about 11 miles. The pipeline rejoins the railroad corridor following the Truckee Canal southwest
of Wadsworth and heads east along the railroad right of way through the City of Fallon until it
reaches its final destination at the Fallon N.A.S.
Hazard Analysis
Since the 1950's only one major incident has been reported. That spill was caused by
construction equipment working over the pipeline. Over the past 40 years the pipeline has been
subjected to extensive stream erosion, landslides, and tectonic activity. The fact that the
pipeline has survived relatively undamaged over the years is a testament to the quality of the
original construction and the ongoing efforts to maintain the pipeline.
While the products in this pipeline do not constitute an EHS (extremely hazardous substance)
they could certainly present an extreme hazard. The location of the pipeline in respect to the
Truckee River and the populated areas of Fernley increase the need for comprehensive
planning.
Kinder Morgan has established an emergency response plan in the unlikely event that an
accident may occur. The manual includes notification procedures, actions, and checklists for
involving personnel, reporting forms, and information on Incident Command and Unified
Revised: April 2016
15.16

232

LYON COUNTY

Command Systems. There is also a program for drills and exercises on response in accordance
with DOT and EPA regulations.
This emergency plan can be activated by calling:
Kinder Morgan – 24 hr. Emergency Number
Reno, NV (775) 358-6971
Orange, CA (213) 624-9461
There are several locations along the pipeline where leak detection can occur, the threshold of
detection is about one tenth of one percent over a period of about 15 minutes. In the event of
a catastrophic break, the pipeline can be shut down in about 30 seconds using automatic shutoff
valves (Table 1). Isolation of manual valves is dependent on weather conditions and could
require 30 minutes to an hour to close. Once the pipeline is isolated, the product remaining in
the pipe can be estimated based on the distance of the block valve from the point of release.
If this break is caused by a single isolated event such as a landslide or rockslide, the damage
could be detected, contained, and repaired relatively quickly assuming fair weather conditions
and transportation routes are clear.
If the event is wide spread major earthquake or flood then fuel distribution would be hampered
due to power outages, road closures, and perhaps pipeline shut down. Emergency services would
be limited to the fuel supplies on hand. Even access to this fuel might be limited to the availability
of mobile generators to power pumps. Additional emergency crews would more than likely have
to be brought in to repair ruptures along the pipeline, since available personnel would be
occupied at the terminal and urban core areas during a major catastrophic event.
Vulnerability Analysis
Any release from the pipeline may have severe consequences to the population and the
environment. The proximity of the pipeline to the Truckee River, its inlets and outlets, signifies
a potential threat to the water system. All of the communities located along the Truckee River
draw their water supply from the river or from wells that are directly affected by any product
release from the pipeline. Environmental damage, including the potential for wildland fire, is
an additional consideration.
Risk Analysis
The risk associated with the pipeline is minimal due to the construction and the continued
preventative maintenance programs in place by Kinder Morgan. But, this is not to say that the
potential for pipeline failure does not exist. The following narrative describes probable
scenarios of pipeline failure.
1. Construction
Excavation is the most likely cause of damage to the pipeline. The potential for rupture due to
nearby excavation is greatest in areas where the pipeline corridor intersects highways and
Revised: April 2016

15.17

233

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

railroad right of ways and areas of new construction. Breaks in the pipeline caused by excavation
are also the most easily preventable type of break. Public education and awareness of the need
for pipeline locates before digging or operating heavy equipment near the pipeline and
coordinated efforts to make pipeline and utility locates easy to acquire and to identify will help
to prevent future breaks.
As the area within the pipeline corridor continues to grow and expand the potential for damage
will also continue to grow.
2. Earthquake
Earthquakes pose a threat to the Kinder Morgan pipeline as well as the terminal and fuel stations
that are part of the distribution system fed by the pipeline. An earthquake has the potential of
damaging the pipeline through three major forms of ground deformation liquefaction, surface
rupture, and landslide. The Kinder Morgan pipeline is constructed of high- grade steel using
modern full penetration welding techniques. Pipelines constructed similarly to the Kinder
Morgan Pipeline have withstood major earthquakes in the past with minor to no damage due to
the ability of welded steel pipe to withstand considerable ground deformation without failure.
The ductility of high-grade steel pipe provides the pipe with a large amount of resistance to
rupture due to most ground deformation and shaking.
Damage to tanks and connections, however, are common during events of extreme shaking.
Tank damage such as sidewall buckling, separation of sidewalls from the bottom plate, and
sloshing of liquids can result from severe shaking. If connections between pipes and tanks are
not flexible they are vulnerable to damage during earthquakes. Containment dikes serve as a
good line of defense in the event pipe connections break. Once contained within the dikes the
petroleum products can be kept from ignition sources and the spill can be controlled.
3. Flood and Erosion
River and stream crossings and locations where the pipeline is near embankments are subject to
erosion. Floodwaters pose the greatest threat to breaking the pipeline since flooding can result
in large amounts of erosion and mass wasting along drainage over a very short period of time.
The pipe was originally buried at least 3 feet below the riverbed. Erosion has worn away the river
bottom at some stream and river crossings sometimes leaving the pipe exposed.
Kinder Morgan Pipeline has been vigilant about keeping embankments in place using riprap and
other erosion control measures and retrenching and reburying the pipe when it becomes
exposed. These preventative measures have kept stream erosion from causing any breaks in the
pipe in the past, however heavy flood waters can change the whole course of a river or stream
in minutes. Some of these crossing may be at higher risk of erosion or embankment failure due
to soil types, nearby tectonic activity, and gradient of the embankments and river.
There are many more washes, dry creeks, marshes, and irrigation ditches that drain into the
Truckee River that are traversed by the pipeline. It is imperative that, in the event of a spill, an
assessment of the location is made to determine if it is in a drainage.

Revised: April 2016

15.18

234

LYON COUNTY

4. Corrosion & Settlement
Pipelines are often subject to corrosion due to saline or alkaline ground water or in some cases
chemical spills near the pipeline. Corrosion can in extreme cases lead to seepage and leakage
underground. Kinder Morgan has a pilot fly the pipeline once a week looking for signs that such
an underground leak has occurred. Unfortunately often by the time above ground detection is
made, damage may have already occurred to the watershed.
5. Landslide
In the mountainous terrain along the west portion of the pipeline through Verdi, landslides and
avalanches have the potential of uncovering and/or damaging the pipeline. The greatest hazard
exists where the pipeline crosses steep mountainous areas due to landslides and stream erosion.
Earthquakes, flooding and times of high run off can lead to an increased likelihood of landslides.
During the original construction of the pipeline crews took into account the probability of
avalanche and landslides and buried the pipe along steep inclines with up to 5 feet of ground
cover. This foresight has probably saved the pipe from ever being subject to breakage from an
avalanche or landslide in the past.
Summary
While potential for a leak would appear to be minimal, cause for concern should be taken
seriously. A leak could cause problems anywhere along the corridor particular up stream form
Chalk Bluff water treatment plant and downstream from Sparks on the spur to Fallon where the
pipeline crosses the river six times. A seepage of fuel would be the most difficult to detect and
may be the most probable type of leak to impact the Truckee River watershed. Any release or
potential for release within the Truckee River watershed area should be cause to review the
Truckee River Regional Hazardous Materials Response Plan.
Table 1

Location of Pipeline Isolation Valves
Area
Donner Lake
Truckee
Prosser Creek Incoming
Prosser Creek Outgoing
Woodchopper Springs
Hoke Valley
California/Nevada
Northridge
West Reno
Coney Island
Reno Incoming
Reno Outgoing
East Vista
West Lockwood
East Lockwood
Clark
Fernley6
Revised: April 2016

Valve Type
Automatic
Manual
Manual
Manual
Manual
Manual
Automatic
Manual
Automatic
Manual
Manual
Manual
Manual
Manual
Manual
Manual
Manual

Location
West end of Donner Lake
West River Road, Truckee
South West bank of Prosser Reservoir
East bank or Prosser Reservoir
1.1 mi. East of Prosser Reservoir
2.2 mi. East of Prosser Reservoir
Stateline in Verdi
Northridge Golf Club
Dickerson Road, Reno
Coney Island Drive, Reno
KMEP Terminal, Sparks
KMEP Terminal, Sparks
3.5 mi. East of Terminal, near R.R.
Lockwood Exit, near R.R.
Mustang Exit, near R.R
Eagle Pitcher Mine
Fernley, Nevada

15.19

235

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

High Pressure Natural Gas Transmission Line
Paiute Pipeline
Emergency Number 1-775-882-0148
Overview Paiute Pipeline
This 16" high-pressure transmission line is part of a pipeline that moves natural gas from the
Trans Canada Pipeline into Nevada and supplies most Western Nevada communities and some
parts of eastern California. The main line is in North Lyon County and roughly parallels the I-80
corridor to Reno. Feeder lines run to Fallon and from Fernley to Silver Springs where the line
parallels Hwy 50 to Carson City. Additionally there is a feeder line that supplies the community
of Yerington and some areas of Mason Valley.
The pipeline is constructed in 1963 is made of steel. This line is generally buried a minimum of
24" but more like 36" to 48" depending on terrain. Line pressure may be as high as 1440 PSI.
This pipeline is monitored via telemetry and pumping stations as well as block valves can be
remotely controlled. Vertical line markers are placed above ground level in a line of site method
for distance. Special valves known as “city gates” reduce working line pressure from three or
four digit numbers to about 53-60 PSI depending on local requirements for each community.
Natural gas has an odorizer, ethyl mercaptan, present in small quantities for detection purposes.
Pipeline block valves are located at required distances. Standard haz-mat protocols should be
employed and responders may call the Paiute Pipeline 24 hour number 1-775-882- 0148 for
assistance in any Incident involving this high-pressure line.
Operations persons and incident Commanders working in wildland fire conditions may want to
request technical support from Paiute (or Southwest Gas) as the potential exists that dozers
cutting fire line could damage the pipeline under certain conditions.
Responder Notes
• Natural gas is lighter than air upon release it dissipates into the atmosphere.
• Gas is in vapor form and its components are 96% methane, 2% ethane and 1.5% nitrogen the
remaining 0.05% is carbon dioxide, propane, butane, pentane, and other hydrocarbons.
Additionally mecapton is added as an odorizer.
• LEL is 5% and the UELS are 75%
• As the gas pressure decreases the potential for ignition moves closer to the source. Related
ignition of combustibles materials can occur within 750 meters (820 yards) of a pipeline fire.
• Extreme noise levels may be encountered.
• Full PPE and SCBA for area searches is highly recommended.
• The shock wave of the gas release will make the ground shake.

Note: The Kinder Morgan Pipeline Risk Analysis applies to the Paiute Pipeline.

Revised: April 2016

15.20

236

LYON COUNTY

Rivers and Associated Waterways
Truckee River
Overview
The Truckee River Basin encompasses an area of approximately 3,060 square miles in the states
of California and Nevada. The basin stretches in a generally north by northeast direction from
Lake Tahoe, located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains on the border between California and
Nevada, to Pyramid Lake, located approximately 50 air miles away in the desert of northwestern
Nevada. Connecting this alpine source lake and the basin's desert terminal lake (Pyramid) is the
105-mile long Truckee River.
Hydrologic Overview of the Truckee River Basin
Major hydrologic features of the Truckee River Basin include Lake Tahoe and the Lake Tahoe
Basin, the 105-mile long Truckee River, a number of lesser upstream storage lakes and
reservoirs, various tributaries, and the Truckee River's terminus, Pyramid Lake. The Truckee
River system may be thought of as consisting of five (5) major river reaches including:
1. The 15-mile reach between the Truckee River's origin beginning at the Lake Tahoe Dam
near Tahoe City, California.
2. The 20-mile reach flowing through the upper Truckee River canyon between Truckee,
California, and Verdi, Nevada, a reach that cuts through the Carson Range of the Sierra
Nevada Mountains.
3. The 15-mile reach through the Truckee Meadows and the cities of Reno and Sparks,
Nevada, to Vista.
4. The 30-mile reach from Vista to Wadsworth through the lower Truckee River canyon, and
cutting through the Virginia Mountain Range.
5. The 25-mile reaches below Wadsworth, Nevada, transversing a broad alluvial valley
to Pyramid Lake.
Fernley Area
The Truckee Canal begins at Derby Dam and carries water 31.5 miles to Lahontan Reservoir on
the Carson River. Along the canal route, about 25 diversions leave the canal for agricultural
irrigation and small public water supplies. Return flows from about half of these enter the
Truckee or Carson River basins. However, return flows from agricultural fields immediately east
of Fernley move northward into a small, closed basin. Thus, this basin is hydrologically connected
to the Truckee-Carson system and is considered a separate subunit. The subunit extends from
the Truckee-Carson system drainage boundaries to the low point of the closed basin in the
Fernley State Wildlife Management Area, and covers about 103 mi 2.
The water budget of the Fernley Area is based upon flows in the Truckee Canal, leakage and
diversions from the canal, the ground-water system, and runoff into the canal during
rainstorms. Leakage from the Truckee Canal, which is mostly unlined, augments the local
groundwater supply as does percolation of diverted water. Agricultural return flows provide the
sustenance of wetlands north of the fields to the playa near Interstate Highway 80.
Revised: April 2016

15.21

237

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Vegetation and open water there became attractive to waterfowl and other animals, and the
area was made into a wildlife preserve. A part of the agricultural return flows returns to the
Truckee River in the vicinity of Wadsworth, resulting in increased base flows and contributing to
the load of dissolved solids in the river.
Water-quality problems are directly tied to the condition of the water in the Truckee Canal. Not
only does canal water go to ground water and crops, but local residents also use the canal for
swimming and fishing. The future of the water resource for the Fernley