Methodological guidelines on sampling during chemical emergency response

Identification of chemical substance, determination of its properties and hazards is critically important during chemical emergency response. The results of the substance identification determine the series of measures to respond to an emergency and eliminate its potential consequences.

Sampling is a key part of the chemical substance identification process and therefore requires clear rules and techniques. These methodological guidelines provide recommendations on and describe all procedures to be followed by first-responders while sampling chemical substances, packaging and labelling samples, ensuring their safety and secure storage during the transportation to a designated analytical laboratory. The experience and existing thematic guidelines of the rescue services of Germany, the United States and Finland were considered in the development of the methodological guidelines. This document can also be used the other governmental agencies engaged in sampling of chemicals. Not available in English.