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GUIDANCE FOR POLICE OFFICERS ATTENDING HAZCHEM INCIDENTS ON MOTORWAYS ETC. |
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GENERAL GUIDELINES. It is essential that every patrol officer
recognises the hazards facing them when attending or dealing with incidents
involving hazardous substances. IF
IN DOUBT- STAY OUT. It is vital that officers do not place
themselves in positions which could render them unable to protect themselves,
their colleagues and the public. The Fire and Rescue Service has the
necessary equipment, expertise and training to allow a much closer approach
than police. It may be better to stop all vehicles
until the Fire and Rescue Service attends. Always be guided by the advice of
the senior Fire Officer. OFFICERS WHO ATTEND ANY INCIDENT
INVOLVING HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES SHOULD SUBMIT A REPORT TO THAT EFFECT FOR
INCLUSION ON THEIR PERSONAL RECORD. IF OFFICERS COME IN TO CONTACT WITH, OR
FEEL THEY HAVE BEEN EXPOSED TO, FUMES ETC., THEY SHOULD SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION
AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. |
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ACTION. Any approach should, if possible, be made
so that as you face the incident, the wind blows from behind you towards the
incident. It is worth remembering that the majority
of these substances are heavier than air. This means that they will
ordinarily travel downhill, so keep uphill if possible. 1. Stop in a safe position. This may well be at a
greater distance than generally recommended by ACECARD, depending on the
circumstances. 2. Inform Control immediately. 3. Officers should go no closer than absolutely
necessary to request the driver/occupant to come to the police vehicle with
the written information (TREMCARD), or to view the markings on the affected
vehicle or container. 4. The most important information is the
4-figure UN Substance Identification Number, shown below: |
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This number identifies the substance
involved, no matter what the country of origin. 5. REMEMBER - 6. Keep the public away. INFORMATION IMMEDIATELY REQUIRED BY CONTROL.
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