ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses key considerations for ensuring the safety and health of first responders as administered by a formal Safety Officer or other designee. The need to champion the cause of responder safety amidst the flurry of an incident scene is discussed and strategies for success considered. Technical elements of relevant OSHA regulations and recognized best practices are detailed concerning hazards related to fall protection, chemical exposures, electricity, temperature extremes, with particular focus on 1910.120, hazardous waste and emergency operations and personal protective equipment requirements. OSHA directives concerning the agency’s response to catastrophic incidents, inspection protocols, and issuance of citations are also reviewed.
