Preparedness, response and relief are the main tools for minimising the consequences of Chemical Emergencies.
Emergency preparedness has as a main objective the minimisation of negative consequences of an accident. The roles and responsibilities of individuals and organisations expected to be involved in emergency response activities should be clearly defined in emergency plans (including learning the warning signals and knowing what to do during an emergency). As part of the emergency planning process, there should be an identification of potential risks and the geographical zones where effects are likely to occur in the event of an accident. It is only through knowledge of the sources and nature of chemical risk that safety can be ensured.
Preparedness and response planning should take into consideration the nature of possible clinical (and also psychological) effects on those potentially affected, including response personnel, workers and the local population.
Hospitals and other treatment facilities, which may be called on during response to an accident involving hazardous substances, should develop systems for receiving and handling large numbers of patients at one time.
Emergency response and relief has as a primary objective the protection of oneself and that of others from harm. On-site emergency management should decide on the immediate actions to take, including actions intended to avoid or limit exposure to hazardous substances, based on preliminary information concerning the site, the nature of the release, the hazardous substance(s) involved and any related analyses. Health/medical personnel should provide assistance, upon request, when such decisions have to be taken. Efforts should be made by public authorities and industry to improve public awareness of chemical hazards in the community and of how to respond in the event of an accident (for example through an understanding of the procedures related to possible evacuations and to sheltering in situ). If an accident occurs, the public should be given specific information in real time on the appropriate conduct and safety measures to adopt.
Appropriate epidemiological and medical follow-up of chemical accidents should be initiated after the release of toxic chemicals. Persons who may have been significantly exposed to toxic chemicals during an accident (whether they are actually affected or not) should be examined and properly registered to allow for short- and long-term follow-up. It may be advisable to take biological samples for immediate and later analysis.