Final answer:
First responders exposed to hazardous materials are required to keep exposure records. Employers must also provide safety training, necessary personal protective equipment, and medical surveillance as per OSHA regulations.
Step-by-step explanation:
For all first responders who have been exposed or potentially exposed to hazardous materials, including radiation exposure, it is mandated by regulations such as those enforced by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) that exposure records should be kept. This includes detailed documentation of the incident, amount and type of hazardous material involved, any health assessments or medical surveillance required, and all actions taken to mitigate the situation, such as decontamination. Also, in terms of work likely to cause an increase in radiation exposure, it's essential that employers provide safety training, conduct workplace hazard tests like air sampling, and offer medical tests when necessary.
The responsibilities of the employer include informing workers about chemical hazards, providing personal protective equipment at no cost, and ensuring that safety measures to eliminate or reduce hazards are prioritized over the reliance on personal protective equipment. In the event of workplace incidents such as fatalities, hospitalizations, amputations, or loss of an eye, the employer must notify OSHA promptly. These requirements help to ensure that first responders and other workers are protected adequately from the risks associated with hazardous materials and are aligned with the rights and responsibilities under OSHA.