Emergency Management - DOE-HDBK-1139-1-20060033

DOE-HDBK-1139/1-2006

management, distribution, and disposal of materials containing hazardous or toxic

substances.

EO 13148

Finally, within the context of chemical management, pollution prevention is often

associated with chemical substitution. However, the environmental benefits of

pollution prevention should be carefully evaluated to ensure they never override

worker safety and health considerations.

2.8 Emergency Management

DOE O 151.1 and its related guides establish requirements for Comprehensive

DOE O 151.1

Emergency Management Systems. The DOE Office of Independent Oversight has

repeatedly found a number of weaknesses in both DOE and contractor Emergency

EH-2 Emergency

Management

Management programs. These findings indicate that this area should be closely

Evaluation

Volume 1

examined in the evaluation of site chemical management programs.

Volume 2

Proper risk assessment, planning, and preparation followed by appropriate and

timely response to emergencies is the most effective way to protect the worker, the

public, and the environment in case of accidental releases of hazardous substances.

Decisions regarding potential response actions should be addressed before an

incident occurs. During an emergency, little time exists to resolve such issues or to

practice and refine roles and responsibilities. Functions, authorities, and

responsibilities for emergency management should be documented and all

personnel properly trained. Emergency response can be greatly enhanced by

participating in an integrated planning process which includes periodic exercises

and revisions, as needed, to the plan.

DOE sites and facilities need to evaluate preparedness for hazardous materials

incidents and plan accordingly; choosing the planning elements and processes most

appropriate to their circumstances (i.e., geographic size, types of hazards,

populations at risk, resources, and level of preparedness). These elements should

be incorporated in a single emergency preparedness and response plan that

incorporates and integrates all of the various emergency requirements from DOE

directives, as well as federal and state laws and regulations.