Section 3: Emergency Spill Response
Background
Hazardous material spills/releases may occur on TxDOT property
and the right of way. At the spill location, TxDOT's first concern
is human safety. TxDOT employees should take an active role to protect
themselves and the traveling public.
Policy
TxDOT's role in emergency spill response is to provide support to the lead agency—Department of Public Safety
, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
, or local fire marshall—in the containment and cleanup. All TxDOT personnel who may encounter a hazardous material spill or release require Hazardous Materials Awareness Training. For more information about TxDOT's hazardous material cleanup policy, including notification requirements, see the
Occupational Safety Manual
, Chapter 5,
.Spill Response
Most spills are a result of a traffic accident; usually, TxDOT
is called to the scene by law enforcement. Safety of TxDOT personnel
and the motoring public is priority. Department personnel are specifically
prohibited from handling, cleaning up or otherwise coming in contact with
toxic or hazardous materials at accident scenes or abandonment sites
on the department's right of way. Vehicle fluid cleanup of less
than 25 gallons is the only exception to handling or cleaning up
hazardous materials at accident scenes or abandonment sites.
The table below outlines the responsibilities of each agency
involved in an emergency spill response.
Agency | Responsibilities |
---|---|
TxDOT staff* |
|
DPS |
|
Fire marshall |
|
TCEQ |
|
*Note: TxDOT personnel should not handle, clean up or otherwise
come in contact with toxic or hazardous materials at accident sites.
Spill Response Preparation
TxDOT supervisors are responsible for:
- ensuring state vehicles have a copy of theUSDOT Emergency Response Guidebook
- maintaining updated emergency notification list, including telephone numbers for DPS, local law enforcement, fire department, district hazardous materials coordinator, and the TCEQ
- instructing employees to remain clear of accident areas contaminated with known or suspected toxic or hazardous materials.