Hazardous Materials Hotline©
February 11, 2026
New Reading Assignments
Several documents have been released that are worth checking out. Cervitas Solutions has put out an article on response to EVs and ESS; FIRESCOPE has released its quarterly brief; a report linking wildfire smoke during pregnancy to autism has been published; the results of a study of PFAS in firefighters was highlighted by science2station; a study of incel violence in the United States; The Washington Post published an article on the rise of nihilistic fueled violence and terrorism; and George Washington University has published a new, annual journal looking at ideology, hate, and tolerance.
Discussion: Professional reading continues to be a significant source of information sharing and intelligence gathering. Responders and support personnel should continue to remain students of the craft.
Training and Education Opportunities
Several training and education opportunities are coming. The National Fire Academy has course openings in many classes, including Chemical Hazard Analysis for Risk Based Response. The CWMD conference will be taking place near Washington DC in May, TEEX will be hosting a first responder summit focused on EVs and stored energy in May, AHMP will be holding its annual conference in New Orleans, PHMSA will be hosting a webinar on LNG safety later this month, The Chlorine Institute has published its training resource list for response personnel, and the IAFC Hazardous Materials Teams Conference is coming in 4 months. In addition, the Continuing Challenge and WEMA are seeking proposals to present at their upcoming conferences.
Discussion: Continuing education and professional development remain cornerstones of individual and organizational growth and development.
Rise of the Machines, Part 2
A recent article highlighted the development of exoskeleton devices to assist with worker movement. While still in limited development, research into exoskeleton machinery to assist with movement, lifting, and other activities has been on-going for several years. The potential for these devices in industries requiring physical movement remains high, with opportunities to increase movement, strength, and speed.
Discussion: Responders and emergency planners should be aware of the progress and potential of adaptive work devices and seek opportunities for incorporating them into the workspace to improve operations and health and safety.
Funding Opportunity
TRANSCAER has announced the 40th anniversary of its hazardous materials grant program.
Discussion: The grant provides up to $5,000 in funding to support up to 4 hazardous materials teams. Emergency planners and team leaders should review the funding and avail themselves of alternate funding whenever possible.
Chemical of the Week
The latest chemical of the week worksheets (phosphorus pentafluoride and phthalic acid) are out. The COW provides weekly chemical research training, reflecting incident research during initial response to hazardous materials incidents. You can subscribe here.
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About the Author:
Dave Donohue is a hazardous materials course developer, educator, and trainer with experience at the local, regional and national level. He is also a Master Exercise Practitioner, firefighter, and emergency manager.
