Applying a “Hard Science” Disciplined Approach to Identify and Verify Chemical Properties for Safe Response, Handling, and Disposal

Abstract

Personnel who may have to deal with the uncertain nature and properties of unknown chemicals at an environmental incident, hazardous waste site, industry or in a laboratory need a way to identify the actual risks and hazards they may face. This applies whether the personnel are emergency responders, forensic researchers or waste clean-up crews. There is, however, a quick-check system to identify chemical properties of labeled, unlabeled, unknown or mixed chemicals. The system uses pH paper, starch paper and a source of flame such as a barbeque lighter or Bunsen burner. The basic test takes less than 60 seconds and will identify or verify high-risk properties such as whether substances are oxidizers or reactive to heat, air or water, their range of flammability and their corrosiveness. The test results provide vital information for responders to make critical decisions, whether dealing with a laboratory spill or a full-scale hazardous material emergency. Using hard science helps in dealing with time-critical issues, such as when, or whether, to add water to modify a chemical reaction when a bad situation could turn into a disaster. Whether working with laboratory or industrial chemicals or responding to a major emergency, hard science can provide the information needed to approach the scene, secure the area, and keep unprotected and unauthorized personnel out. It identifies the physical and chemical properties of known, unknown and newly formed substances and allows personnel to assess the risk, hazards and potential scales of impact including when it is safe to respond or take other appropriate action.