This book provides information that is useful for anyone who handles potentially dangerous materials. Although regulatory agencies have established standards for working with dangerous substances, they rarely offer the common sense advice needed to properly evaluate and handle them. Plain language and a practical approach will make this work a valued resource. It groups related materials (corrosive, ignitable, radioactive, etc.) together for quick and easy reference, while detailing methods and procedures for evaluating the properties and strengths of questionable materials. The latest regulatory directives relating to hazardous materials handling are referenced as they apply.

From the Introduction: “An issue that should be driven by common sense involves regulatory definitions of hazardous materials, hazardous substances, and hazardous wastes. Let's deal with this issue now. In previous years, the regulatory agencies, special interest groups, and various environmental health and safety organizations have developed and used definitions for hazardous substances to meet specific `organizational' interests...”

Target Audience: Hazardous waste management personnel; environmental, health, and safety managers; environmental auditors and assessors; and other professionals working with hazardous materials.

Table of Contents:

Regulatory Control of Dangerous Substances

Principles of Safety

Dangerous Substances

Hazardous Characterization and Site Evaluation

Hazardous Materials Emergencies

Corrosive Substances

Ignitable Substances

Human Health Hazards

Biological Hazards

Disaster Site Work

Characterization of CBRNE Terrorist Threats and Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

Glossary

Index