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Hazardous Material Identification System (HMIS)

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Hazardous materials are not just a threat in the execution of a terrorist. Hazardous materials are b manufactured and moved across the world on a daily basis. Through the Hazardous Material Identification System (HMIS), first responder ability to identify hazardous materials, and consequence management, the United States stands ready to address terrorist threats. First, the marking and identification of hazardous materials within the HMIS clearly provide first responders with quick identification capability. Though an optional marking system, the “National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) 704 system for hazardous materials was devised to provide at a glance information to response personnel on how a substance could be expected to react in the event of an emergency” (An Introduction to Hazardous Material). This marking system provides first responders with immediate input on the correct response to the incident at hand. The Department of Transportation Hazardous Materials Transportation Administration requires their markings on all containers and tanks. Marking and identification are crucial for response and elimination. Second, the ability to …show more content…

Consequence management, when incorporated into standing operating procedure (SOP) provide the hierarchy for supported and supporting roles in incident response. Each local agency carefully compares plans for the various response functions within that agency and revises the plans to remove any discrepancies which prevents disconnects between vital functions and manage expectations (Managing the Emergency Consequences of Terrorism, 2002). Coordination and the establishment of SOPs ensures that all levels of government understand their roles in order to allow for the appropriate level of government to understand their place in the emergency management

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