Demystifying Hazmat Chemistry

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STUDENT HANDOUT DEMYSTIFYING HAZMAT CHEMISTRY Salts Most salts are comprised of a metal element bonded to a nonmetal element. The chart below identifies the types of salts, their composition, how they are named (along with examples), and some of the associated hazards. However, the following are characteristics common to most salts: • Salts are solid. • Salts are nonflammable. • Most are water-soluble. • Many are water-reactive and produce a flammable gas, a toxic gas, a caustic solution, and/or heat when in contact with water. • Salts are electrolytes; they conduct electricity when in a molten state or when dissolved in water. • Salts range from being mildly toxic to very toxic. • Some cause severe environmental damage. If you suspect that you are dealing with a salt but are not yet sure which one or what hazards are associated with it, assume the worst. Assume it is a caustic, toxic, and water-reactive oxidizer. Don’t touch or inhale the product. Use respiratory and skin protection. Keep the product dry. Keep it away from acids and combustibles. Types of Salts and Common Hazards Associated with Them The common hazards listed above represent the hazards associated with some of the worst salts in each category. The information does not apply universally to all salts within each category. The generalizations apply primarily to salts containing alkali metals (Group 1) and alkaline earth metals (Group 2). In general, when salts contain transition metals, toxicity and environmental damage are common concerns; reactivity is usually less of a problem. Continuing Challenge 2007 Page 28 © 2007 Firebelle Productions and CHES
STUDENT HANDOUT DEMYSTIFYING HAZMAT CHEMISTRY Mini Field ID Kit Developed by Kevin Smith, Deputy Fire Marshal - Hazardous Materials Chino Valley Independent Fire District Listed below are the contents of a mini field ID kit used by Kevin Smith. The contents will fit in a container about 10" x 6" x 6". You can carve cutouts and drill holes in a solid block of foam to organize the kit’s contents and protect breakables. You can place other loose items in a ziplock bag on top of everything else. Inventory List for Mini Field ID Kit Continuing Challenge 2007 Page 29 © 2007 Firebelle Productions and CHES
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