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There are several ways to recognize the presence of a hazardous substance or the warning signs
of a hazardous substance release. The shapes of containers are often a clue that they may be
storing hazardous substances. For example, large drum barrels or a reinforced (e.g., ribbed)
tanker car are often used to transport and store chemicals or hazardous wastes. Also, the federal
government has a system for labeling containers (Identifying Hazards) used to store or transport hazardous substances
that uses colors and symbols to designate potential hazards.
Although not the preferred method, one's senses may detect hazardous substances: smelling a foul
odor, seeing gases or unusually colored flames, or hearing the increased pitch of a relief valve on
a pressurized container. However, do not assume gases and vapors are harmless because they
lack odor -- odorless gases or vapors may also be extremely harmful. Other warning signs of a
hazardous substance release include people running from or suddenly collapsing in a hazardous
material area, the visible signs of a leak, or vapors or gas clouds emanating from a facility or
vehicle.
The EPA maintains summaries of information on
over 300 chemicals, including their identifying characteristics, health hazards, ecological
effects, and methods to reduce exposure to the chemical. Search the Envirofacts Master Chemical Integrator (EMCI) Chemical References Web pages.
It is important to be aware of the sources of common contaminants and their health effects and the potential for their release. Safety first
should be the primary concern when it appears that a hazardous substance release has
occurred. It is always better to be cautious and treat potential releases as real threats involving
hazardous substances.
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