HAZARDOUS MATERIALS COMMITTEE
Roseville Ca.
October 26, 2001

Members Present:

Paul Inouye, Milpitas Fire Department
Patricia Johnson, UC Davis Fire Department
Steve Rusconi, AIDI / Therma
Reinhard Hanselka, South Bay Piping Industry
Angela Sullivan ,Santa Clara Fire Department
Kent Miller, Stockton Fire Department
Ron Keefer , Menlo Park Fire District

1. Committee members discussed a question, via e-mail, from Larry Williams, Ventura County Fire, regarding a definition of use, open use vs. use, closed. Larry was questioning weather a container is considered open use, or use closed once a container is opened. Once opened a resealed container is considered closed, or back in storage. A use closed system, is generally interpreted as a piping system. If a container is opened and a pump installed for dispensing, if the pump seals the container, it’s a closed system, if the pump does not seal the container, it’s open.

2. Kent Miller discussed the Code requirement for security regarding hazardous materials. The Code does not specifically define security. Committee members believe that adding "approved" security. Approved security may only be a locked door for a lab, to a chain-link fence or greater, for an outdoor area. The level of security will depend on the level of the hazard.

3. What are we doing about Anthrax? Most jurisdictions are following normal unknown solid responses. The additional problem, is that this procedure needs to accompany an evidence collection protocol. We are finding inconsistency with decontamination, bacteria killing, and disposal after the fact. Committee members agreed to develop standards for any biohazard incident that includes facts regarding the products and response procedures.

Ron Keefer Kent Miller

Co-Chair Co-Chair