Final answer:
When personnel suspect a crime or terrorist attack at a hazmat incident, they should promptly notify authorities and follow emergency protocols while protecting themselves with appropriate PPE. They should avoid contamination and preserve any potential evidence, clearly communicate with superiors, and ensure law enforcement is involved to handle the criminal aspect of the situation.
Step-by-step explanation:
If personnel suspect a crime or terrorist attack at a hazmat incident, they should immediately notify the appropriate authorities, such as the police or anti-terrorism units. These professionals are trained in dealing with such situations and can provide the necessary protocols to ensure safety. Personnel should avoid touching anything that might be evidence, maintain a safe distance, and take note of any details that might be relevant to the investigation. It is vital that they continue to use personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow emergency procedures to protect themselves and prevent further contamination. Clearly communicating the situation to superiors and following emergency protocols are key steps in resolving the incident safely.
Personnel handling hazmat incidents are generally advised on safety measures, such as knowing the location of safety equipment like fire extinguishers and eyewash stations. They must also be prepared to report conditions and follow instructions received from superiors. In case of contamination, they must adhere to strict decontamination procedures including the use of protective coats, face protection, and cut-resistant gloves, as well as proper cleaning of any contacted skin and incineration or autoclaving of contaminated wastes.
In the event that a serious and immediate threat is identified, such as an active crime scene or a potential terrorist act, personnel must prioritize alerting law enforcement agencies who have the capacity to handle such threats. Figure 7.10 in the provided reference indicates that police use various tools, such as K9 units, to prevent crime and protect the community in public facilities. This illustrates the importance of involving properly trained and equipped authorities when there is a suspicion of criminal activity in connection to a hazmat situation.