Coursework

Explosive Cargo Trucks - Emergency Response Considerations

The International Association of Fire Chief’s Hazardous Material Committee is providing this information as a reminder to emergency first responders about the safe and proper response to roadway incidents involving the transport of commercial explosives. Vehicle accidents involving explosives are infrequent, but these low-probability, high-consequence events need to be emphasized in hazardous materials response training.

Over 6 billion pounds of commercial explosive materials that are used in mining, construction, oil and gas recovery and other industrial purposes are transported on U.S. highways annually. According to DOT statistics, transportation incidents involving explosives that require emergency response occur several times a year. At times, a fire may occur in the cargo container during one of these events. In most cases, the fire just consumes the cargo without serious incident. However, there can be incidents where the burning cargo can undergo a deflagration-to-detonation reaction.

The actions taken by emergency first responders, especially when explosives are involved in a fire, are absolutely critical to the safety of the public and the emergency responders. A few simple guidelines and a proficient use of the 2012 Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) can assist you in keeping your personnel and the public safe.

Download the PDF document from the International Association of Fire Chief’s Hazardous Material Committee: Explosive Cargo Trucks - Emergency Response Considerations