ABSTRACT
Planning for hazardous material emergencies involves a systematic approach that includes anticipating possible incidents, making a reasonable effort to prevent their occurrence, and preparing responses to any incidents that may occur. Medical facilities have long been vital participants in community planning and response to hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, fires, and other mass casualty incidents. Plans for regional nuclear disasters are well developed and the framework for community chemical emergency planning has been established. The aggregate total quantity of chemicals used in most hospitals and other medical institutions is below the threshold quantities. Although participation is not compulsory, the National Response Team has strongly recommended including representatives of local health departments, hospitals, emergency medical services, veterinarians, and the medical community in preparing the plan. Requirements are based on the type of facility and the amounts and identity of materials on hand.
