Factors to consider during structural assessment are:
• Building type, size and height;
• Number, location and condition of supporting walls and structures remaining;
• Extent of fire damage that may have weakened any reinforcement or exposed toxic materials;
• Length of time the building has been damaged and has remained standing;
• Weather conditions and seasons that the damaged structure has endured;
• The anticipated effect that planned or unplanned explosions would have. What is the assessed size and type of EO expected?
1.5.2. TOXIC CHEMICALS AND SUBSTANCES HAZARDOUS TO HEALTH Toxic chemicals and substances hazardous to health may be encountered frequently in critical infrastructure, industrial facilities and through a general exposure to a dense concentration of people. They may also be present where certain commercial chemicals and materials have been used in the manufacture of IEDs and are not readily identifiable as hazardous, especially if not in their original container. While MA is not involved in the disposal of chemical munitions, stakeholders should have effective risk management processes, training and equipment to care for a casualty resulting from unintended contact with improvised chemical weapons. In order to gain an understanding of what hazards may be encountered, a desktop analysis can be used to establish what common substances are likely to be encountered and to gain information on the community’s diligence in labelling, storing and use of chemical and hazardous substances. Correct and clear labelling and safety data sheets outlining pertinent precautions and procedures is an internationally regulated practice of controlling hazardous substances through the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). An awareness of the type of labelling used on hazardous substances would be beneficial in the identification process.
Labelling will normally consist of bold and contrasting colours with a pictogram identifying the nature of the risk posed by the product, like in the examples below:
Conflict-affected urban areas present the challenge of hazardous substances stored without clear labelling either due to damage and deterioration, or non-adherence to regulations.
The presence of these substances may be indicated by:
• Purpose-built storage facilities, more secure or ventilated, which could be separate from general areas;
• Symptoms of nausea and sickness in their presence;
• Strong odour;
• Large robust containers;
• Discarded PPE in the immediate area, such as goggles and rubberised gloves.
Introduction
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