Because of their very nature, chemicals and hazardous substances are covered by strict measures and controls. Legislation such as:
has been developed to safeguard not just the operator of industrial facilities or the transporter of hazardous substances but also those communities that may be impacted by an incident occurring involving chemicals or hazardous substances.
Substances that may be hazardous to our health and / or environment are available in many forms for example: everyday domestic, household chemicals to agricultural fertilizers.
Strict controls are in place to monitor and regulate the transportation, use and storage of chemicals and hazardous substances. However there is always the risk that a safety measure may fail as a result of leakage, transportation incident, fire or explosion, potentially resulting in serious damage to human health and / or the environment.
Should you find yourself involved in an incident where chemicals or hazardous substances maybe involved and you are in a position to do so:
- Call 999 and alert the emergency services
- Go inside, to a room furthest away from the incident
- Shut all doors and windows to prevent fumes entering the building
- Stay indoors and tune into the local radio station, listening for advice on what to do next
- If you are at home, or know the building you are in prepare to turn of gas, electric and water supplies
- Prepare to be evacuated to a safe place, collect your Emergency Grab Bag
- Follow the advice and instructions given to you by the emergency services.