ARNF_Spill_Plan.pdf

ARNF SPILL PLAN

The following equipment will be available with vehicles used to transport pesticides and in the immediate vicinity of all spray operations:

1. A shovel

2. A broom (except backcountry operations)

3. 10 pounds of absorbent material or the equivalent in absorbent pillows

4. A box of large plastic garbage bags

5. Rubber gloves

6. Safety goggles

7. Protective overalls

8. Rubber boots

The appropriate Material Safety Data Sheets will be reviewed with all personnel involved in the handling of pesticides.

The following material from the U.S. EPA document entitled Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Private and Commercial Applicators will be reviewed with all personnel involved in handling pesticides.

CLEANUP OF PESTICIDE SPILLS

Minor Spills Keep people away from spilled chemicals. Rope off the area and flag it to warn people.

Do not leave unless someone is there to confine the spill and warn of the danger. If the pesticide was spilled on anyone, wash it off immediately.

Confine the spill. If it starts to spread, dike it up with sand or soil. Use absorbent material such as soil, sawdust, or absorbent clay to soak up the spill. Shovel all contaminated material into a leak proof container for disposal. Dispose of it as you would excess pesticides. Do not hose down the area, because this spreads the chemical. Always work carefully and do not hurry.

Major Spills The cleanup of a major spill may be too difficult for you to handle, or you may not be sure of what to do. In either case, keep people away, give first aid if needed, and confine the spill. Then call the Forest Health and Safety Officer, the Forest Hazardous Materials Coordinator, the local fire department, and state pesticide authorities for help.

As a last resort, contact Chemtrec. Chemtrec is normally contacted only for larger spills and more hazardous substances than will be used under the Forest and Grassland Noxious Weed Management Plan. Chemtrec stands for Chemical Transportation Emergency Center, a public service of the Manufacturing Chemicals Association. Its offices are located in Washington, D.C. Chemtrec provides immediate advice for those at the scene of emergencies. Chemtrec operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to receive calls for emergency assistance. For help in chemical emergencies involving spills, leaks, fire, or explosions, call toll-free 800-424-9300 day or night. This number is for emergencies only.

If a major pesticide spill occurs on a highway, have someone call the Colorado State Patrol or the local sheriff for help. Carry these phone numbers with you and use 911 where available. Do not leave until responsible help arrives.