As a local emergency responder, do I need to register or pay a fee in order to engage CHEMTREC’s services?
No. CHEMTREC is a free public service available to responders - and the general public - as a source of information during incidents involving hazardous materials. Registration applies to shippers that wish to use the emergency telephone number on shipping documents.
Does CHEMTREC notify other federal, state or local authorities in case of a hazardous materials spill?
No. CHEMTREC does not assume responsibility for notifying appropriate federal, state or local authorities; the responsible party is still obligated to fulfill applicable compliance requirements. However,
CHEMTREC does have special relationships with certain federal agencies to give notice if a significant release of product has occurred.
Who are the Emergency Services Specialists (ESS) that answer the CHEMTREC hotline?
CHEMTREC’s ESS are experienced, trained professionals who use a variety of resources to assist callers. Most have emergency response backgrounds and all receive rigorous and recurring hands-on emergency response training. Collectively, CHEMTREC’s ESS staff have over 250 years of hands-on emergency response experience.
What technical resources does CHEMTREC use to handle emergencies?
After a CHEMTREC ESS obtains information from the caller concerning the incident, immediate technical emergency response information is provided to the scene. Information provided by the ESS is obtained from several sources, including our expansive collection of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), information databases, emergency contacts, and medical and chemical specialists.
Does CHEMTREC participate in drills and exercises?
Yes. Through CHEMTREC’s drill program, CHEMTREC participates in local exercises and provides assistance as in an actual emergency. The goal of this program is to expand on emergency responder’s understanding of what resources and services are available should CHEMTREC be called in the event of a hazmat emergency.
To arrange a CHEMTREC drill, complete the Hazardous Materials Exercise Request Form.
Does CHEMTREC have foreign language capability?
Yes. If an emergency call is received from someone whose primary language is other than English, CHEMTREC can access its 24/7 language translation service and communicate effectively with the caller.
Does CHEMTREC assist with handling a medical exposure?
Yes. CHEMTREC maintains 24/7 access to physicians and toxicologists who can provide critical information to emergency medical technicians and physicians treating patients exposed to hazardous materials.
As an emergency responder, can I get an MSDS from CHEMTREC even if there is not an emergency?
MSDS are available for use by emergency responders only during an actual emergency, scheduled drill or exercise.