Theme - 2

Safety in Transportation of Hazardous

Substances by Road
industrial Disaster Risk Management

For further information Contact:

Disaster Management Institute

Paryavaran Parisar,
E-5, Arera Colony, PB No. 563,
Bhopal-462 016 MP (India),
Fon +91-755-2466715, 2461538, 2461348,
Fax +91-755-2466653
dmi@dmibhopal.nic.in
www.dmibhopal.nic.in

January 2010 5.03-0005-2010

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MoEF

Imprint

The Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) is the nodal agency in the administrative
structure of the Central Government for the planning, promotion, coordination and
overseeing the implementation of Indias environmental and forestry policies and
programmes.
The Ministry also serves as the nodal agency in the country for the United Nations
Environment Programme (UNEP), South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme
(SACEP), International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) and for
the follow-up of the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development
(UNCED). The Ministry is also entrusted with issues relating to multilateral bodies such
as the Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD), Global Environment Facility
(GEF) and of regional bodies like Economic and Social Council for Asia and Pacific
(ESCAP) and South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation (SAARC) on matters
pertaining to the environment.

Chief Editor
Praveen Garg, IAS,
Executive Director, DMI, Bhopal, India

Editors
Dr. Rakesh Dubey, Director, DMI, Bhopal, India
Florian Bemmerlein-Lux, Sr. Advisor, InWEnt, Germany

Support
Sudheer Dwivedi, Dy. Director, DMI, Bhopal, India
Dr. Asit Patra, Asstt. Director, DMI, Bhopal, India
Neeraj Pandey, Content Manager, InWEnt India
Amit Kumar Dadhich, Content Manager, InWEnt India
Huda Khan, Content Manager, InWEnt India

Published under

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INDIA

FEDERAL REPUBLIC
OF GERMANY

InWEnt-gtz-ASEM Capacity Development Programme

for industrial Disaster Risk Management (iDRM)
Edition 1, 2010

InWEnt
International Weiterbildung und Entwicklung gGmbH
Capacity Building International,
Germany Division for Environment, Energy and Water
Ltzowufer 6-9, 10785 Berlin, Germany
Dr. Christina Kamlage
Phone +49 30 25487-117
christina.kamlage@inwent.org
Steffi Mallinger
Phone +49 30 25487-116
steffi.mallinger@inwent.org

Disaster Management Institute

Paryavaran Parisar, E-5, Arera Colony, PB No. 563
Bhopal-462 016 MP (India),
Fon +91-755-2466715, 2461538, 2461348,
Fax +91-755-2466653
www.hrdp-iDRM.in

GTZ ASEM
Advisory Service in Environmental Management
A-33, Gulmohar Park,
New Delhi 110049
Fon +91-11-26528840
Fax +91-11-26537673
www.asemindia.com

Disclaimer
Though all care has been taken while researching and compiling the
contents provided in this booklet. DMI-InWEnt-gtz-ASEM accept no
liability for its correctness.
The reader is advised to confirm specifications and health hazards
described in the booklet before taking any steps, suitability of action
requires verifications through other sources also.
Information provided here does not constitute an endorsement or
recommendation.

in

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worldwide operations dedicated to human resource development, advanced training,
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COOPERATION
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INDIA

FEDERAL REPUBLIC
OF GERMANY

gtz-ASEM
The Advisory Services in Environmental Management (ASEM) Programme, is a joint
programme of the German Technical Cooperation (GTZ) and the Indian Ministry of
Environment and Forests (MoEF). The German Federal Ministry for Economic
Cooperation and Development (BMZ) supports several environment related projects
in India through GTZ. ASEM focuses on seven major thrust areas -Sustainable
Industrial Development, Sustainable Urban Development, Sustainable Consumption
and Consumer Protection, Sustainable Environmental Governance and the cross
cutting areas. Climate Change and Human Resource Development. Public Private
Partnership (PPP) project with Indian and German companies contribute towards
identified project activities. Detailed Information can be explored using our WEB sites:
www.asemindia.com
www.hrdp-net.in

Disaster Management Institute

(DMI) Bhopal
The Disaster Management Institute (DMI) was set up in 1987 by the Government of
Madhya Pradesh (GoMP) as an autonomous organization in the aftermath of the
industrial disaster in Bhopal.
Since inception, DMI has built vast experience in preparation of both On-site and
Off-site Emergency Management Plans, Safety Audit, Risk Analysis and Risk
Assessment, Hazard and Operability Studies (HAZOP), etc.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) constituted under the
chairmanship of the Prime Minister selected DMI as a member of the Core Group
for preparation of the National Disaster Management Guidelines- Chemical Disaster.
It is a matter of pride that NDMA has selected DMI for conducting Mock Exercises on
chemical (industrial) Disaster Management at key industrial locations in the country.
The Ministry of Environment and Forests, InWEnt and gtz-ASEM Germany have
recognized DMI as a Nodal Training Institutes for capacity building in industrial Disaster
Risk Management.
www.HRDP-iDRM.in

1. Introduction

Contents
1. Introduction

-2

2. Hazard information systems

-2

2.1 U.N. classification for hazard and substance identification

-2

3. Hazchem

-9

4. Responsibilities of consignor

- 13

5. Responsibilities of the transporter or owner of goods carriage

- 13

6. Responsibilities of the driver

- 14

6.1 Driver to be instructed

- 14

6.2 Driver to Report to the police station about accident:

- 14

7. Emergency Information Panel (EPI)

2. Hazard information systems

- 15

8. Emergency Information Panel (EIP) of few of the hazardous

chemicals

The rapid increase in the transportation of hazardous chemicals has enhanced the
accident potential during transit. In transit, the goods would subject to impact,
vibration, compression and other adverse effects and exposure to harmful environment.
The other factors such as improper packing of the contents, poor storage may also lead
to release of chemicals to the environment resulting in emergencies like fire, explosion,
toxic release, etc. Apart from pollution of land, water and air, such emergencies have
potential to cause injuries and death, property damage and environmental degradation.
Availability of information on the hazards and control measures at the time of
emergency is vital for minimising the effect of such accidents. This module is intended
to provide the first hand knowledge about the hazard information system as
implemented in India and its status of implementation.

- 20

9. Class label of popular chemicals transported by road

- 23

10. Exercise

- 24

11. Correct extinguishing techniques for different types of fires

- 26

12. Initial isolation and protective action distances

- 27

13. Conclusion

- 32

14. Glossary

- 33

15. References

- 34

The movement of hazardous substances by any mode of transport, presents in general,

a greater risk of accidental release. It is due to absence of the availability of appropriate
information on transport accidents. The need for essential information to be clearly
displayed in transport emergency has always been accepted by both industry and the
emergency services. The basis of many emergency information systems adopted in
various parts of the world has been a combination of hazard classification and United
Nations substance identification.
2.1. U.N. classification for hazard and substance identification

The classification of chemical hazards as recommended by the UN Committee of

Experts on the Transport of Dangerous
Goods has been widely adopted for
This module is useful for
transport of hazardous chemicals for
following target groups:
all modes of transport. Hazard types are
segregated into nine basic classes
Traffic police
represented numerically.
Industries
Many of these classes are further
Transporters
separated in to divisions and subdivisions
Emergency managers
according to appropriate criteria. The
Fire fighters
international classification system is
given in Table -1.
Drivers, etc.
In India to manage accidents in
transportation of hazardous
chemicals Central Motor Vehicles Rules 1989 have been framed.

Table-1
UN international classification system

(INFECTIOUS)
MATERIALS

Division 1.1
Division 1.2
Division 1.3
Division 1.4
Division 1.5
Division 1.6

Explosives with a mass explosion hazard

Explosives with a projection hazard
Explosives with predominantly fire hazard
Explosives with no significant blast hazard
Very insensitive explosives
Extremely insensitive explosive articles

CLASS 7
RADIOACTIVE
MATERIALS

CLASS 2
GASES

Division 2.1
Division 2.2
Division 2.3

Non Flammable Gases

Flammable Gases
Poison Gases

CLASS 9
MISCELLANEOUS
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

CLASS 3
FLAMMABLE
LIQUIDS

Division 3.1
Division 3.2

Flashpoint below - 18C (0F)

Flashpoint - 18C and above but less
than 23C (73F)
Flashpoint of 23C and upto 61C (141F)

The pictogram, hazard-warning diamonds may also bear an approved inscription

quoting the hazard and /or the United Nations hazard class number. The basic principle
however, is that the shape, colour and pictogram convey a clear message of danger,
thus overcoming language difficulties. With international acceptance, the value of such
labelling system when displayed on vehicles and packages is clear because:

CLASS 1
EXPLOSIVES

Division 3.3

Division 4.1
CLASS 4
Division 4.2
FLAMMABLE
Division 4.3
SOLIDS,
SPONTANEOUSLY
COMBUSTIBLE
MATERIALS,
AND MATERIALS
THAT ARE DANGEROUS
WHEN WET

CLASS 8
CORROSIVES

Flammable Solids
Spontaneously combustible materials
Materials that are dangerous when wet

1. It provides a warning to the general public to keep away.

2. In an accidental situation the emergency services are provided with an
indication of the primary hazard likely to be encountered.
The class label for various type of hazardous chemicals, as per the rule 137, provides
information in detail according to Table 2
Table-2
UN Class No.
1

CLASS 5
OXIDIZERS
AND
ORGANIC
PEROXIDES

Division 5.1
Division 5.2

Oxidisers
Organic Peroxides

CLASS 6
POISONOUS
AND
ETIOLOGIC

Division 6.1
Division 6.2
Division 6.3

Poisonous Materials
Harmful Substances
Etiologic (Infectious) Materials

1.

Classification of goods
2

Class Label
3

Explosives

EXPLOSIVES
1

Symbol (Exploding Bomb) : Black

Background
: Orange

Gases, compressed, liquified, dissolved under pressure or

deeply refrigerated.

2.1

Non-flammable gases

1
3

Flammable liquids

FLAMMABLE
LIQUIDS
3

Symbol (Flame) : Black or White

Background : Red

NON-FLAMMABLE
COMPRESSED
GAS
2

Symbol (Gas cylinder) : Black or White

Background
: Green

2.2

4.1

Flammable gases

Inflammable solids, substances liable to spontaneous combustion;

substances which, on contact with water, emits flammable gases.
Flammable solids

FLAMMABLE
SOLIDS

FLAMMABLE GAS

Symbol (Flame) : Black

Background : White with vertical
red stripes

Symbol (Flame) : Black or White

Background : Red

2.3

4.2

Poison (Toxic Gases)

Substances liable to
spontaneous combustion

SPONTANEOUSLY
COMBUSTIBLE

POISON GAS

Symbol (Flame) : Black

Background : Upper half White
and lower half Red

Symbol (Skull and cross bones) : Black

Background
: White

4.3

1
6.1

Substances which, on contact with

water, emit flammable gases

2
Poisonous (toxic) substances

POISON
DANGEROUS
WHEN WET
4

Symbol (Skull and crossbones) : Black

Background
: White

Symbol (Flame) : Black or White

Background : Blue

6.2
5
5.1

Harmful substances

Oxidising substances and organic peroxides

HARMFUL

Oxidising substances

STOP AWAY FROM

FOODSTUFFS

The bottom half of the label should bear

the inscription:
HARMFUL stow away from food-stuffs.
Symbol ( St. Andrews cross over an
ear of wheat)
: Black
Background
: White

OXIDISING AGENT
5

Symbol (Flame over circle) : Black

Background
: Yellow
6.3

5.2

Organic peroxides

Infectious substances

INFECTIOUS
SUBSTANCES
6

The bottom half of the label should bear:

INFECTIOUS SUBSTANCES (optional) and
the inscription In the case of damage or
leakage immediately notify Public Health
Authority (optional)
Symbol (three crescents superimposed
on a circle)
and inscription
: Black
Background
: White

OXIDISING
PEROXIDE
5

Symbol (Flame over circle) : Black

Background
: Yellow

1
7

The hazchem code consists of a number from 1 to 4 and any one of the letters, P, R, S ,
T, W, X, Y, Z followed at times by the letter E.

Redioactive substances
The numbers signify the extinguishing medium to be employed as given in Table-3.
Table-3
RADIOACTIVE
DO NOT REMAIN IN OR
NEAR THIS VEHICLE
UNNECESSARILY

Symbol ( 3 segments of a circle) a number

and lettering of the class label) shall be
black on a white background and the
parallel lines bordering the Class label
shall be black and shall be 5 mm thick.
8.

JETS

FOG

FOAM

DRY AGENT

The letters signify 4 aspects viz.

I) Method of controlling spillage
a) by diluting or
b) by containing
ii) Personal protective equipment to be worn by fire fighters
iii) Reactive nature of Chemical, and
iv) Need for evacuation.

Corrosives

CORROSIVE
8

Symbol ( liquids spilling from two glass

vessels and attacking a hand and meta: Black
Background : Upper half White and lower half
Black with white border.

The fire services personnel should carry the Hazchem code, scale and Notes for
Guidance as given in Table-4.
Table-4
HAZCHEM CODE
1. JETS
2. FOG
3. FOAM

3. Hazchem

4. DRY AGENT
P V
R

Till sometime back firemen had no way of knowing what medium of extinguishment on
unknown chemicals in a fire, spillage or any emergency should be used. Incorrect
actions resulted in disasters.

FULL

BA
S V
DILUTE
BA for FIRE only
S
BA

T
T

Availability of information on the hazardous nature of substance and required control

measure helps the emergency management personnel to take quick and correct
decisions.

BA for FIRE only

W V
X

FULL

BA
Y V
CONTAIN
Y
BA for FIRE only
BA
Z
Z
BA for FIRE only

The hazchem code (also called Emergency Action Code) gives vital information to fire
brigade and other emergency services on the action to be taken to combat spillage,
leakage or fire in an emergency involving a hazardous substance.

E CONSIDER EVACUATION

10

Notes for Guidance

FOG : In the absence of fog equipment
a fire spray may be used.
DRY AGENT : Water must not be
allowed to come into contact with the
substances at risk.
V : Can be violently or even explosively
reactive
FULL : Full body protective clothing
with BA.
BA : Breathing apparatus plus
protective gloves.
DILUTE : May be washed to drain with
large quantities of water
CONTAIN : Prevent by any means
available, the spillage from entering
drains or water course.

HAZCHEM Code of some important and popular chemicals transported on Indian roads
are given in Table-5.

For motor spirit with UN number 1203, the

hazchem code is 3YE, and this would mean

Table-5
SUBSTANCE

HAZCHEM CODE

1) PETROL

3YE

2) METHYL ALCOHOL

2PE

3) L.P.G.

2WE

4) AMMONIA LIQUIFIED

E- Consider evacuation as first priority.

2Z

6) KEROSENE

3Y

3- Use Foam only.

Y- Can be violently (V) reactive or
explosive. Breathing apparatus plus
protective gloves to be used in case of fire.
Photo-1
The personal protective equipment is not a
requirement in case of spillage. Any spillage of the substance should be contained.
E- Consider evacuation as a first priority. An example is shown in Photo-1 for petrol.

2PE

5) SULPHUR

FLAMMABLE
LIQUIDS

Bad Practices

It is important to note here that the objective of the hazchem code is not to identify
the chemical carried in the vehicle. The purpose of hazchem code is only to provide
guidance on the basic approach to deal with an emergency.
Photo-2

In interpreting the hazchem code, the following points will be useful :

(i) If necessary, a fire fighting medium represented by a higher number than that
shown may be used, but not represented by a lower number.
(ii) Where the letter appears as white on black, police and other non-fire service
personnel need to wear breathing apparatus only for a fire and not for a spillage,
but firemen are required to wear it in both cases.
(iii) Letter E indicates that the officer in charge should consider civil evacuation of the
area.
The Indian Chemical Manufactures Association (ICMA), in their publication Code For
Safe Transportation Of Hazardous Substances By Road recommends that at least the
area within a radius of 300m should be considered for evacuation wherever 'E' appears
in hazchem code.

Photo-3

For example for ethylene oxide with UN number 1040 and hazchem code is 2PE and
would be decoded as:
2- Fog equipment is recommended (through extinguishing agents corresponding to
higher number may also be used). P- Can be violently (V) reactive .Full body clothing
with breathing apparatus is necessary. The substance may be diluted and washed to
drain.

Photo-4

11

12

With reference to UN class label,

instead of correct fire symbol in
red, a flower or some vague picture
is painted (Photo-2).
Drivers keep many TREM cards
belonging to chemicals transported
earlier, in the vehicle cabin. This
specially leads to confusion when
the driver/cleaner runs away after an
accident and emergency action is to
be taken.
The size of EIP, inside boxes and
letters / numbers does not match the
specifications given in CMVR, 1989
(Photo-3).
The EIP which gets obliterated in
course of time is not repainted and
remains unclear or invisible
(Photo-4).
Some tankers do not carry any
hazardous chemical, but display EIP
of a hazardous
chemical which the tanker
transported earlier.

5. The owner of the goods carriage should ensure that the driver holds a driving
licence as per provisions of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules.

4. Responsibilities of consignor

Annexure V
Transport Emergency (TREM) Card (ROAD)
Cargo
Mention chemical identity of the
dangerous and hazardous goods
Nature of hazard
........................................
Protective devices
..........................................
Emergency action
Notify police and fire brigade
immediately
Spillage
..........................................
Fire
..................................
First-aidAdditional information provided by
the manufacturer or sender

The consignor has to ensure the following points :

The goods carriage has a valid registration to carry the hazardous goods.
The vehicle is equipped with necessary First-aid, Safety equipments and Antidotes
as may be necessary.
The transporter or owner of the goods carriage has full and adequate information
about the dangerous or hazardous goods being transported.
The driver of the goods carriage is to be trained in handling the dangers posed
during transport of such goods.
Every consignor shall supply to the owner of the goods carriage full and adequate
information about the dangerous or hazardous goods, being transported as to
enable such owner and its driver to:
(a) comply with the requirements of rules 129 to 137
(b) to make aware of the risks created by such goods to health or safety
of any person.

6. Responsibilities of the driver

It is the responsibility of the driver to keep all information provided to him in writing
i.e., in the form TREM CARD (Transport Emergency Card). This is to be kept in the
drivers cabin and should be available at all times while hazardous material is being
transported (Rule 133). Driver will also ensure that parked vehicle is safe from fire,
explosion or any other risk.

5. Responsibilities of the transporter or owner of goods

carriage

As per Rule the driver should have the ability to read and write at least one Indian
language specified in the Constitution and English language.

1. It shall be the responsibility of the owner or transporter to ensure the following:-

The driver should have successfully passed a course connected with the transport of
hazardous goods.

The goods carriage has valid registration and permit and is safe for the
transportation of the said goods.
The vehicle is equipped with necessary First-Aid, Safety equipment, tool box and
antidotes as may be the necessity to contain any accident.

6.1. Driver to be instructed

2. The owner or transporter should satisfy himself that the information given by the
consignor is full and accurate in all respects as specified in rule 137.
3. The owner or transporter should ensure that the driver being deputed for
transportation is trained to handle and transport such hazardous materials and
has information as annexure V of rule 132.

The owner of every goods carriage transporting dangerous or hazardous goods shall
ensure the satisfaction of the consignor that the driver of the goods carriage has
received adequate instructions and training to enable him to understand the nature
of the goods being transported, by him, the nature of the risks raising out of such
goods, precautions he should take while the goods carriage is in motion or stationary
and the action he has to take in case of any emergency. (Rule 135)
6.2. Driver to report to the police station about accident:

4. The owner of the goods carriage carrying dangerous or hazardous goods and the
consignor of such goods shall lay down the route for each trip or permitted
otherwise by police authorities.

The driver of a goods carriage transporting any dangerous or hazardous goods shall, on
the occurrence of an accident involving any dangerous or hazardous goods transported

13

14

by his carriage, report forthwith to the nearest police station and also inform the owner
of the goods carriage or the transporter regarding the accident. (Rule 136)

note the lack of concern shown by both the consignors / transporters as well as the
various regulatory agencies involved. It has been observed that carriers are not
displaying the details of hazards chemical in EIP.

One practical problem encountered with the use of EIP is the selection of the substance
identification number and the hazchem code to be incorporated in the EIP when a
tanker transports different chemicals in different compartments. The solution in such
case is to incorporate the word Multi-load in the sections of EIP earmarked for UN
Number and Hazchem and to label each compartment separately with the UN
number and hazchem code corresponding to the chemical in the compartment.
As to the level of compliance to this statutory requirement, it is quite disheartening to

15

16

Fig-1

SIDE

FRONT

TANKER

EMERGENCY INFORMATION PANELS

3. The emergency information panel ( EIP) should have dimensions as shown

in fig-2.

BACK

2. Every class label and emergency information panel ( EIP) shall be marked on the
goods carriage and shall be kept free and clean from obstruction at all times.

BACK

EMERGENCY INFORMATION PANELS

The correct technical name of the dangerous or hazardous goods in letters not less
than 50 mm high.
The United Nations class number for the dangerous goods in letters not less than
100 mm high (Rule 137).
The class label of the dangerous or hazardous goods in the size of not less than
250 mm square.
The name and telephone number of the emergency services to be contacted in the
event of fire or any other accident in letters and numerals that are not less than
50 mm high and the name and telephone number of the consignor of the
dangerous or hazardous goods or of some other person from whom expert
information and advice can be obtained concerning the measures that should be
taken in the event of emergency.

SIDE

FRONT

TRUCK

In India, it is mandatory for the vehicles transporting hazardous chemicals to display

Emergency Information Panel (EIP) with details and at places as specified under Rule
134 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989 as shown in Fig-1.
1. Every goods carriage used for transporting any dangerous or hazardous goods shall
be legibly and conspicuously marked with an emergency information panel in each
of the three places as specified, so that the emergency information panel faces to
each side of the carriage and to its rear and such panel shall contain the following
information viz.

CLASS LABEL

7. Emergency Information Panel (EIP)

10
10

Fig-2

Photo-6

10

10

30

180

10

120

5
120

Photo-5

3. Carriers designed for other purpose are

being used for transporting of
hazardous goods. Photo-7 shows the
transportation of LPG cylinders in
ordinary truck without EIP.

(d)

380

In Emergency Dial

15

HAZCHEM=

(b)
15

UN No. =

10

2. The information given in the EIP does not

match with the chemical being
transported. This may be due to:
Carelessness in adhering, to CMVR
requirements by the Consignor.
Driver of the vehicle not affixing on
the EIP, the stickers for class label,
UN number hazchem, etc. supplied
by the consignor at the time of loading a chemical.

Correct Technical Name

(a)

(All dimensions are expressed in millimeters)

390
(f)

(C)

(Subsidiary Risk Label)

Specialist Advice =

15

(Class Labels)
800

135

1. Display of EIP not in accordance with the provisions laid down in the Central
Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989 (CMVR).
The EIP as per CMVR should be displayed
at three locations on a carrier viz;
extreme back and both sides of the
vehicle with class label in front of the
vehicle (Fig 1). It has been observed that
in place of information as per EIP and
information of hazardous chemicals
other information is provided (Photo-5,6).
Photo-5 has no EIP and photo-6 has no
information as per colour code. Both
photos are of same one vehicle.

600

Following deficiencies in respect of the Emergency Information Panels on hazardous

goods carriers was further observed:

4. Some time EIP on paper has printed and

pasted on vehicle these paper during
transportation during rainy season
washed out.
Photo-7

17

18

Emergency procedures in the event of a Tanker/Truck

accident
1. If possible drive out of populated areas.
2. Identify the cargo,
refer labels, TREM
Card, instructions.
3. In case of a major
leak of highly
inflammable gas/
vapour, do not
start the engine.
4. Order on lookers
to leave the
affected area.
5. Stop pilferage of
the leaked
substance, it can
be dangerous.
6. Secure the

8. Emergency information panel (EIP) of few of the

hazardous chemicals transported by road are given in
fig-3 to 8
FIG-3
EMERGENCY INFORMATION PANEL
FOR METHYL ALCOHOL
CORRECT TECHNICAL NAME
(METHYL ALCOHOL)
UN NO.
1230

HAZCHEM
2 PE
IN EMERGENCY DIAL

SPECIALIST ADVICE:
FATAL IF SWALLOWED. CAUSES EYE
IRRITATION. EXPLOSION HAZARD.
DRENCH SPILLAGE WITH WATER.

accident area and divert traffic.

7. Remove affected persons for first aid.
8. In the event of electrical fire, isolate the battery of the vehicle.
9. In case of fire, inform Fire Station, avoid inhalation of fumes, use gas masks if
required.
10. In case of leaks, see if it can be arrested easily.
11. Contain small spills by covering with sand.
12. Avoid direct
contact with skin,
wash with water
and use necessary
protective
clothing like PVC
apron.
13. In case of contact
with eyes or skin
wash with plenty
of water. For any
major
contamination,
remove clothing
immediately.

FIG-4
EMERGENCY INFORMATION PANEL
FOR AMMONIA (LIQUIFIED)
CORRECT TECHNICAL NAME
AMMONIA LIQUIFIED
UN NO.
1005

HAZCHEM
2 PE
IN EMERGENCY DIAL

19

20

SPECIALIST ADVICE:
INHALATION CAUSES RESPIRATORY
DAMAGE. CONTACT AFFECTS EYES
AND SKIN. CONTAIN LEAK WITH
SAND OR EARTH

FIG-5
EMERGENCY INFORMATION PANEL
FOR PETROL

FIG-7
EMERGENCY INFORMATION PANEL
FOR SULPHUR

CORRECT TECHNICAL NAME

PETROL

CORRECT TECHNICAL NAME

SULPHER

UN NO.

UN NO.
1203

1350

HAZCHEM
3YE

HAZCHEM
3Z

IN EMERGENCY DIAL

SPECIALIST ADVICE:
VAPOUR IS INVISIBLE AND HEAVIER
THAN AIR SPREAD ALONG GROUND.
KEEP FLAMMABLES AWAY.
CONTAIN LEAK WITH SAND OR EARTH.

IN EMERGENCY DIAL

SPECIALIST ADVICE:

COMBUSTION CAUSES TOXIC FUMES.

SWEEP UP SPILLED SUBSTANCE.

FIG-6
EMERGENCY INFORMATION PANEL
FOR KEROSENE

FIG-8
EMERGENCY INFORMATION PANEL
FOR CHLORINE

CORRECT TECHNICAL NAME

KEROSENE

CORRECT TECHNICAL NAME

CHLORINE

UN NO.

NON-FLAMMABLE
COMPRESSED
GAS
2

UN NO.
1223

1017
TOXIC GAS
2

HAZCHEM
3Y
IN EMERGENCY DIAL

HAZCHEM
2 XE
SPECIALIST ADVICE:
VAPOUR IS INVISIBLE AND HEAVIER
THAN AIR. SPREADS ALONG GROUND.
KEEP FLAMMABLES AWAY. CONTAIN
LEAK WITH SAND OR EARTH.

IN EMERGENCY DIAL

21

22

SPECIALIST ADVICE:
VAPOUR HEAVIER THAN AIR, STAY UPWIND,
EVACUATE AREA, USE SELF-CONTAINED
BREATHING APPARATUS, CONTAIN SPILLAGE,
DISPERSE GAS WITH WATER SPRAY BUT DONT
SPRAY WATER ON LEAKY POINT USE
STREPSILS/VICKS/GUR FOR RELIEF AGAINST
IRRITATION

10. Exercise

9. Class label of popular chemicals transported

by road

Identify the deviations in EIP, class label, hazchem, etc in the following pictures to test
yourself:
NAPHTHA
CARBON Dl SULPHIDE

FLAMMABLE
LIQUIDS

FLAMMABLE
LIQUIDS

EIP
Class label
Hazchem
Other

..............................................
..............................................
..............................................
..............................................

EIP
Class label
Hazchem
Other

..............................................
..............................................
..............................................
..............................................

POISON

PHENOL
BENZENE (C6H6)
EIP
Class label
Hazchem
Other

FLAMMABLE
LIQUIDS
POISON

..............................................
..............................................
..............................................
..............................................

2
POISON

METHANOL (CH3OH)
TOLUENE
FLAMMABLE
LIQUIDS
3

POISON

FLAMMABLE
LIQUIDS

23

24

11. Correct extinguishing techniques for different types of

fires
EIP
Class label
Hazchem
Other

..............................................
..............................................
..............................................
..............................................

WATER BASED
Direct stream at base of fire.
WATER BASED

DRY POWDER
Start at base of flame and move up
where burning.
EIP
Class label
Hazchem
Other

..............................................
..............................................
..............................................
..............................................

DRY POWDER

C02 AND HALON

Discharge as close to fire as
possible from edge of flame
forwards and upwards.
CO2 AND HALON

EIP
Class label
Hazchem
Other

..............................................
..............................................
..............................................
..............................................

FOAM
Do not play stream onto the
burning liquid. Allow foam to fall
lightly on fire.
FOAM

25

26

12. Initial isolation and protective action distances

concerns. Actions to protect public must be selected carefully. This module can help
with an initial decision on how to protect the threatened public. Officials must continue
to gather information and monitor the situation.

The Table-6 suggestes distances for isolating unprotected people from spill areas
involving hazardous chemicals shown are for listed chemicals when they are not on
fire.
Only a few chemicals of the Motor vehicle Rules, 1989 and whose vapours have the
potential to produce toxic effects have been selected. The Table-6 is useful for no more
than 80 minutes of an incident involving these hazardous chemicals. It is suggested
that the use of this table be limited specifically to the initial phase of a NO FIRE spill
incident during transport.
The smallest ISOLATION DISTANCE indicated in the table is 45.7 meters and the smallest
PROTECTIVE ACTION DISTANCE is 320 meters. This means that 45.7 meters is the
minimum distance for isolating the unprotected public for any hazardous chemical spill
that is listed in the table. Distances for both small spills and large spills are shown in
the table and the largest distance for protective action is 8 kms. The approximate
distance and air borne release would travel in 30 minutes with a wind speed of 2.68
m/s. Some releases could require protective actions beyond 8 kms after the first 30
minutes following the initial release.
This module assists the first responders in identifying hazardous chemicals and
provides advice for initial emergency action. It is not an excuse for a responder to try to
control an accident alone. Instead, the first responder will take action to and move an
unprotected person out of the danger area.
If a hazardous chemical cloud goes between several multi storey building or down a
valley the cloud may affect people much further away from the distances specified and
protective action distances should be increased accordingly. Fire involvement in an
additional leaking tank also indicates the need to increase the isolation and protective
action distances.
For hazardous chemicals listed in the table, if a fire begins and burns the spill chemical,
the toxic effects may become less important compared to the fire, explosion or BLEVE
hazards. For flammable chemicals the potential fragmentation hazards i.e. formation of
thermal degradation product usually requires a greater isolation area in all directions
despite any shorter distances suggested in the table.
Regardless of the number of meters that have been indicated if unprotected people are
being affected the isolation and protective action distances should be increased.
Every hazardous chemical incident is different. Each can have special problems and

27

Evacuation is by itself, a process with significant risk for the persons being evacuated.
Therefore, protecting in place should always be a first consideration if the buildings can
be sealed tightly from any fresh air entering. In the case of short term spills and cold
toxic vapour clouds the hazardous chemicals may be deflected or reflected by the
multi-storey buildings and pass by without affecting the occupants of the buildings.
People in the upper floors of a tall rise building within the downwind protective action
distance may often be safer by remaining where they are. Air handling equipments if
any, like air conditioners, etc. should be shut down to keep out hazardous chemical
vapours.
It is vital that communication is constantly maintained with competent persons inside
such buildings so that they could be adviced of the changing conditions. Those persons
protected in place should be warned to stay far from a window in direct line of the
scene of the incident.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Based on a Gaussian dispersion model, isolation and protective distances have been
predicted. A small spill refers to an accident with a container size equal to or smaller
than a 248 kg drum (55 gallons). Large spill refers to a one ton cylinder a tank truck or
rail car. Predictions are for neutral weather stability (class D), overcast night with wind
speed of 2.68 m/s and a temperature of 35C. LC 50 values were used to estimate short
term exposure limits wherever TLVs STELs or TLVTWAs were not available.
HOW TO USE THE TABLE:
1. Responders should have:
-Identified the material by its ID number and name;
-Noted the wind direction.
2. Now responders should look in this table for the ID number and name of the
chemical in this incident. Some ID numbers have more than one shipping name listed.
Look for the specific name of the chemical.
If responders find a matching entry in the table, use the following steps (3 to 6) to
determine the area requiring immediate protective actions.
3. Determine if the incident involves a SMALL or LARGE spill. Generally a SMALL SPILL is
one which involves a single, small package (i.e. up to a 200-248 kg or one drum), small
cylinder, or a small leak from a large package. A LARGE SPILL is one which involves a big
spill from an opening in a large package or multiple spills from many small packages.

28

Table-6
INITIAL ISOLATION AND PROTECTIVE ACTION DISTANCES (In Meters)

4. Look up the initial ISOLATION distance. Direct all persons to move, in the crosswind
direction, away from the spill to the distance specified.

Initial isolation
5. Next, look up the initial PROTECTIVE
Zone
ACTION DISTANCE shown in the table. For
Initial isolation
a given hazardous chemical and spill size,
Distance
the table gives the distance in meters
downwind in which protective actions
should be considered. For practical
purposes, the Protective Action Zone
Spill
Fig-9
(i.e. the area in which people are at
risk of harmful exposure) is a square,
whose length and width are the same as the downwind distance shown in the table.

Wind Direction
Protective
Action
Zone
Initial
Isolation
Zone

1/2 Downwind
Distance
Downwind Distance
1/2 Downwind
Distance

Spill
Fig-10
6. Initiate Protective Actions to the extent possible, beginning with those closest to the
spill site and working away from the site in the down wind direction.
The shape of the area in which protective actions should be taken (the Protective
Action Zone) is shown in this figure. The spill is located at the center of the small
circle. The circle represents the ISOLATION zone around the spill. (Fig-9 and 10)
If the material is on fire or explosion, there may be toxic combustion products.
CALL THE NEAREST EMERGENCY OPERATION CENTRE (EOC) FOR HELP.

29

S.NO. ID NO.

Name of Chemical

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

1092
1098
2334
1005
2676
2188

7.
8.
9.
10.

1744
1016
1017
1239

11.
12.
13.
14.

1754
1143
1595
1135

15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.

1605
1040
1045
1050
1051
1052
2202
1053
1061
1062
2480
1259
1067
1831
2190
1380
1670

32.

1076

ACROLEIN
ALLYL ALCOHOL
ALLYL AMINE
AMMONIA
ANTIMONY HYDRIDE
ARSENIC HYDRIDE
(STIBINE)
BROMINE
CARBON MONOXIDE
CHLORINE
CHLORO METHYL
ETHER
CHLOROSULPHONIC ACID
CROTONALDEHYDE
DIMETHYLSULPHATE
ETHYLENE CHLOROHY
DRIDE
ETHYLENE DIBROMIDE
ETHYLENE OXIDE
FLUORINE
HYDROGEN CHLORIDE
HYDROGEN CYANIDE
HYDROGEN FLUORIDE
HYDROGEN SELENIDE
HYDROGEN SULPHIDE
METHYL AMINE
METHYL BROMIDE
METHYL ISOCYANATE
NICKEL TETRACARBONYL
NITROGEN DIOXIDE
OLEUM
OXYGEN DIFLUORIDE
PENTA BORANE
PERCHLOROMETHYL
MERCAPTAN
PHOSGENE

Small Spil
(250 Kg)

30

Large Spil
(1000 Kg)l

**

**

ISO-DIS PRO-A.DIS

ISO-DIS PRO-A-DIS

274.2
45.7
45.7
45.7
457
457

4800
1280
1280
320
8000
8000

2856
45.7
1624
91
457
457

6400
1280
3200
1600
8000
8000

457
457
274.2
45.7

8000
8000
4800
320

457
457
3200
45.7

8000
8000
8000
640

45.7
45.7
45.7
45.7

320
320
640
1280

45.7
45.7
45.7
45.7

320
640
640
1280

45.7
45.7
457
1828
1828
91
457
457
45.7
182
457
457
45.7
45.7
457
457
45.7

320
1280
8000
3200
3200
1600
8000
8000
1280
3200
8000
8000
1280
640
8000
8000
1280

45.7
1025
457
3656
1828
273
457
457
273
273
457
457
182
45.7
457
457
45.7

320
3200
8000
6400
3200
4800
8000
8000
4800
4800
8000
8000
3200
640
8000
8000
1280

457

8000

457

8000

S.NO. ID NO.

Name of Chemical

33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.

PHOSPHINE
SELENIUM HEXAFLUORIDE
SULPHUR DIOXIDE
SULPHUR TRIOXIDE
SULPHURIC ACID
TETRA NITRO METHANE
THIONYL CHLORIDE

Small Spil
(250 Kg)

2199
2194
1079
1829
1831
1510
1836

13. Conclusion

Large Spil
(1000 Kg)l

**

**

ISO-DIS PRO-A.DIS

ISO-DIS PRO-A-DIS

457
457
182
45.7
45.7
45.7
274

457
457
457
45.7
45.7
45.7
365

8000
8000
3200
640
640
640
4800

8000
8000
8000
640
640
1280
6400

This module is based on the deviations observed in compliance of CMVR 1989 during
transporting the hazardous chemicals on roads.
This module provides the information on various provisions of CMVR 1989.
At the end of this module, trainees will be able to understand the various
provisions of CMVR 1989.
EIP
Hazchem codes
Action to be taken during emergency

* Isolation distance.
** Protective - Action distance.

The module is useful for following target groups:

Traffic police
Industries
Transporters
Emergency managers
Fire fighters
Drivers, etc.

31

32

14. Glossary

15. References

Accident/Incidents: Any unplanned, sudden event which causes or is liable to cause

injury to people or damage to building, plant, material or the environment.
Consequence: Result of a specific event.
Emergency plan: A formal written plan which, on the basis of identified potential
accidents together with their consequences, describe how such accidents and their
consequences should be handled either on-site or off-site.
Evacuation: Evacuate means to move all people from a threatened area to a safer
place. To perform an evacuation, there must be enough time for people to be warned,
to get ready, and to leave an area. Generally, if there is enough time for evacuation, it
is likely to be the best protective action.
Hazard: An inherent property of a substance, agent, source of energy or situation
having the potential of causing undesirable consequences.
Hazardous substances: An element, compound, mixture or preparation which, by
virtue of chemical, physical or (eco) toxicological properties constitutes a hazard.
In-place protection: In-place protection means to direct people to quickly go inside a
building and remain inside until the danger passes. When protecting people inside,
direct them to close all doors and windows and to shut off all ventilating, heating and
cooling systems. In-place protection is used when evacuating the public would cause
greater risk than directing them to stay where they are, or when an evacuation cannot
be performed. When inside, people must keep all windows and doors closed. In-place
protection may not be the best option if the vapours are explosive, if it will take a long
time for the gas to clear the area, or if the buildings cannot be tightly closed.
Isolation: Isolate Hazard Area and Deny Entry means to keep everybody away from the
area if they are not directly involved in emergency response operations. Unprotected
emergency responders should not be allowed within the isolation area. This Isolation
task is done first, to get control of a place to work. This is the first step for any
protective action that follow.
Major accidents: Any unplanned, sudden event which causes or is liable to cause
serious injury to people or damage to buildings, plant, material or the environment.
Probability: The likelihood that a considered occurrence will take place.
Risk: The combination of a consequence and the probability of its occurrence.
Transport : This means movement of hazardous substances from one place to another
by air, rail, road or water.
Transporter: A person or an organisation engaged in the offsite transportation of a
hazardous substances by air, rail, road or water.

33

A guide to safe road transport of hazardous chemicals , Ministry of

Environment & Forests, New Delhi, 1995.
The central motor vehicle rules, 1989 as amended till 2009.

34

Notes

Notes

35

36