Introductory Information:
Participants will learn how to recognize the risks involved with radiation. They will also learn how to identify radioactive material, the different equipment that is available, and how to use available resources.
Main Topics Covered in this Course Include:
- Radiation Units
- Detection Equipment
- Six Clues
- Resources
- Exposure Control
- Initial Actions
Legal Requirements:
First responders at the Awareness Level are individuals who are likely to witness or discover a hazardous substance release. They are trained to begin the emergency response by notifying the proper authorities. They are also trained to define a hazardous material and the risks it may pose; to recognize a release; to identify the material, if possible; and to identify the need for additional resources, such as the area Hazmat Team. This includes law enforcement personnel.
Legal Requirements
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) and state OSHA programs, a responder at the Awareness Level must have:
- An understanding of hazardous substances and the risks associated with them in an emergency
- An understanding of the potential outcomes associated with an emergency created when hazardous substances are present
- The ability to recognize the presence of hazardous substances in an emergency
- An understanding of the role of the first responder at the Awareness Level, including site security and control and use of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Emergency Response Guidebook
- The ability to realize the need for additional resources and to provide good information to the communication center
Course Duration: 4 hours