Emergency:  Hazardous Materials Incident

Only trained and authorized personnel are permitted to respond to hazardous materials incidents.

In Case of Hazardous Spills or Leaks

1. Remove yourself from the area, and keep others away.  Do not walk into or touch any of the spilled substance.  Try not to inhale gases, fumes, and smoke.  If possible, cover mouth with a cloth while leaving the area.  Stay away from the exposed patients until the hazardous material has been identified.  Try to stay upstream, uphill, and upwind of the accident
2. Call 777 (from Internal IP phone) / 04 – 3601 777 (from mobile phone) immediately.  Provide dispatcher with information about the spill (location, injuries, type of chemicals, amount)
3. Leave immediate area but remain nearby to direct emergency personnel to the affected area
4. Advise others to stay out of the immediate area
5. Assist with obtaining information about the material (material safety data sheet [MSDS], constituents, common use)
6. Dubai Civil Defense has personnel trained in the proper cleanup and containment of hazardous spills or releases; Security will facilitate accordingly.

In Case of Non-hazardous Spills or Leaks

1. Barricade the area
2. Attempt to contain the spill if possible. 
3. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (if necessary) while cleaning the spill
4. Notify facilities management and the Security.

Evacuation

Authorities will decide if evacuation is necessary based primarily on the type and amount of chemical released and how long it is expected to affect an area.  Other considerations are the length of time it should take to evacuate the area, weather conditions, and the time of day.

In-Place Sheltering

Seal space so contaminants cannot enter.

• Close windows and doors.
• Seal gaps under doorways and windows with wet towels and duct tape.
• Seal gaps around window with duct tape and plastic sheeting or other impervious material.
• Turn off ventilation systems.

Immediately after the in-place sheltering announcement is issued, fill up large containers for an additional water supply, and turn off the intake valve to the building.

If gas or vapours could have entered the building, take shallow breaths through a cloth or towel.

Avoid eating or drinking as food and/or water may have become contaminated.

Assisting People who are Exposed to the chemical.

Don’t try to care for the exposed patients of a hazardous materials accident until the substance has been identified and authorities indicate it is safe to go near the patient.  Then you can move the patient to fresh air and call for emergency medical care.  Remove contaminated clothing and shoes and place them in a plastic bag.  Cleanse patient who has come into contact with chemicals by immediately pouring water over the skin or eyes for at least 15 minutes, unless authorities instruct you not to use water on the particular chemical involved or when there is powder chemical involved.