CCLME.ORG - DIVISION 2. OFFICE OF EMERGENCY SERVICES

State
California Regulations
TITLE 19. PUBLIC SAFETY DIVISION 2. OFFICE OF EMERGENCY SERVICES

database is current through 09/29/06, Register 2006, No. 39

s 2400. Short Title.
This Chapter shall be known and may be cited as the Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) Regulations.

Note: Authority cited: Section 8607(a), Government Code. Reference: Section 8607, Government Code.

s 2401. Purpose and Scope.
These regulations establish the Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) based upon the Incident Command System (ICS) adapted from the system originally developed by the Firefighting Resources of California Organized for Potential Emergencies (FIRESCOPE) program including those currently in use by state agencies, the Multi-Agency Coordination System (MACS) as developed by FIRESCOPE program, the operational area concept, and the Master Mutual Aid Agreement and related mutual aid systems.
SEMS is intended to standardize response to emergencies involving multiple jurisdictions or multiple agencies. SEMS is intended to be flexible and adaptable to the needs of all emergency responders in California. SEMS requires emergency response agencies use basic principles and components of emergency management including ICS, multi-agency or inter-agency coordination, the operational area concept, and established mutual aid systems. State agencies must use SEMS. Local government must use SEMS by December 1, 1996 in order to be eligible for state funding of response-related personnel costs pursuant to activities identified in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, s2920, s2925, and s2930. Individual agencies' roles and responsibilities contained in existing laws or the state emergency plan are not superseded by these regulations.

Note: Authority cited: Sections 86075(a) and 8607(b), Government Code. Reference: Section 8607, Government Code; and Sections 13071 and 13072, Health and Safety Code.

s 2402. Definitions.
(a) "Action Plan" means the plan prepared in the EOC containing the emergency response objectives of that SEMS level reflecting overall priorities and supporting activities for a designated period. The plan is shared with supporting agencies.
(b) "Activate" means, at a minimum, a designated official of the emergency response agency implements SEMS as appropriate to the scope of the emergency and the agency's role in response to the emergency.
(c) "Department Operations Center" means an EOC used by a district discipline (such as flood operations, fire, medical, hazardous material), or a unit (such as Department of Public Works or Department of Health). Department operations centers may be used at all SEMS levels above the field response level depending upon the impacts of the emergency.
(d) "Disaster Assistance Program" is a program that provides state funding or reimbursement for local government response-related personnel costs incurred in response to an incident as defined in Section 2402(i).
(e) "Emergency" means a condition of disaster or of extreme peril to the safety of persons and property caused by such conditions as air pollution, fire, flood, hazardous material incident, storm, epidemic, riot, drought, sudden and severe energy shortage, plant or animal infestations or disease, the Governor's warning of an earthquake or volcanic prediction, or an earthquake or other conditions, other than conditions resulting from a labor controversy.
(f) "Emergency Operations Center (EOC)" means a location from which centralized emergency management can be performed.
(g) "Emergency Response Agency" means any organization responding to an emergency, or providing mutual aid support to such an organization, whether in the field, at the scene of an incident, or to an operations center.
(h) "Emergency Response Personnel" means personnel involved with an agency's response to an emergency.
(i) "Incident" means an occurrence or event, either human-caused or by natural phenomena, that requires action by emergency response personnel to prevent or minimize loss of life or damage to property and/or natural resources.
(j) "Incident Action Plan" means the plan developed at the field response level which contains objectives reflecting the overall incident strategy and specific tactical actions and supporting information for the next operational period. The plan may be oral or written.
(k) "Incident Commander" means the individual responsible for the command of all functions at the field response level.
(l) "Incident Command System (ICS)" means the nationally used standardized on-scene emergency management concept specifically designed to allow its user(s) to adopt an integrated organizational structure equal to the complexity and demands of single or multiple incidents without being hindered by jurisdictional boundaries. ICS is the combination of facilities, equipment, personnel, procedures, and communications operating within a common organizational structure, with responsibility for the management of resources to effectively accomplish stated objectives pertinent to an incident.
(m) "Local Government" means local agencies as defined in Government Code s8680.2 and special districts defined in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, s2900(y).
(n) "Multi-agency or interagency coordination" means the participation of agencies and disciplines involved at any level of the SEMS organization working together in a coordinated effort to facilitate decisions for overall emergency response activities, including the sharing of critical resources and the prioritization of incidents.
(o) "Office of Emergency Services (OES)" means the Governor's Office of Emergency Services.

Note: Authority cited: Section 8607(a), Government Code. Reference: Sections 8607, 8680.2 and 8558(c), Government Code.

s 2403. SEMS Organizational Levels and Functions.
(a) All emergency response agencies shall use the Standardized Emergency Management System in responding to, managing, and coordinating multiple agency or multiple jurisdiction incidents, whether single or multiple discipline.
(b) There are five designated levels in the SEMS organization: field response, local government, operational area, regional, and state. Each level is activated as needed.
(1) "Field response level" commands emergency response personnel and resources to carry out tactical decisions and activities in direct response to an incident or threat.
(2) "Local government level" manages and coordinates the overall emergency response and recovery activities within their jurisdiction.
(3) "Operational area level" manages and/or coordinates information, resources, and priorities among local governments within the operational area and serves as the coordination and communication link between the local government level and the regional level.
(4) "Regional level" manages and coordinates information and resources among operational areas within the mutual aid region designated pursuant to Government Code s8600 and between the operational areas and the state level. This level along with the state level coordinates overall state agency support for emergency response activities.
(5) "State level" manages state resources in response to the emergency needs of the other levels, manages and coordinates mutual aid among the mutual aid regions and between the regional level and state level, and serves as the coordination and communication link with the federal disaster response system.
(c) Local government, operational area, regional, and state levels shall provide for all of the following functions within SEMS: management, operations, planning/intelligence, logistics, and finance/administration.
(1) Management is responsible for overall emergency policy and coordination through the joint efforts of governmental agencies and private organizations.
(2) Operations is responsible for coordinating all jurisdictional operations in support of the response to the emergency through implementation of the organizational level's action plan.
(3) Planning/Intelligence is responsible for collecting, evaluating, and disseminating information; developing the organizational level's action plan in coordination with the other functions; and maintaining documentation.
(4) Logistics is responsible for providing facilities, services, personnel, equipment, and materials.
(5) Finance/Administration is responsible for financial activities and administrative aspects not assigned to the other functions.

Note: Authority cited: Section 8607(a), Government Code. Reference: Sections 8607, 8559, 8605 and 8600, Government Code.

s 2405. Field Response Level.
(a) Emergency response agencies operating at the field response level of an incident shall utilize the Incident Command System, incorporating the functions, principles and components of ICS.
(1) The functions of ICS are command, operations, planning, logistics and finance.
(A) Command is the directing, ordering, and/or controlling of resources by virtue of explicit legal, agency, or delegated authority.

(B) Operations is responsible for the coordinated tactical response of all field operations directly applicable to or in support of the mission(s) in accordance with the Incident Action Plan.
(C) Planning (may be referred to as planning/intelligence) is responsible for the collection, evaluation, documentation, and use of information about the development of the incident, and the status of resources.
(D) Logistics is responsible for providing facilities, services, personnel, equipment, and materials in support of the incident.
(E) Finance (may be referred to as finance/administration) is responsible for all financial and cost analysis aspects of the incident, and for any administrative aspects not handled by the other functions.
(2) The principles of ICS are that:
(A) The system provides for the following kinds of operation: single jurisdictional responsibility/single agency involvement, single jurisdictional responsibility with multiple-agency involvement, and multiple-jurisdictional responsibility with multiple-agency involvement.
(B) The system's organizational structure adapts to any emergency or incident to which emergency response agencies would be expected to respond.
(C) The system shall be applicable and acceptable to all user agencies.
(D) The system is readily adaptable to new technology.
(E) The system expands in a rapid and logical manner from an initial response into a major incident and contracts just as rapidly as organizational needs of the situation decreases.
(F) The system has basic common elements in organization, terminology and procedures.
(3) The components of ICS are common terminology, modular organization, unified command structure, consolidated action plans, manageable span-of-control, predesignated incident facilities, comprehensive resource management, and integrated communications.

(A) Common terminology is the established common titles for organizational functions, resources, and facilities within ICS.
(B) Modular organization is the method by which the ICS organizational structure develops based upon the kind and size of an incident. The organization's staff builds from the top down with responsibility and performance placed initially with the Incident Commander. As the need exists, operations, planning, logistics, and finance may be organized as separate sections, each with several units.
(C) Unified command structure is a unified team effort which allows all agencies with responsibility for the incident, either geographical or functional, to manage an incident by establishing a common set of incident objectives and strategies. This is accomplished without losing or abdicating agency authority, autonomy, responsibility or accountability.
(D) Consolidated action plans identify objectives and strategy determinations made by the Incident Commander for the incident based upon the requirements of the jurisdiction. In the case of a unified command, the incident objectives must adequately reflect the policy and needs of all the jurisdictional agencies. The action plan for the incident covers the tactical and support activities required for the operational period.
(E) Manageable span-of-control within ICS is a limitation on the number of emergency response personnel who can effectively be supervised or directed by an individual supervisor. The kind of incident, the nature of the response or task, distance and safety will influence the span of control range. The ordinary span-of-control range is between three and seven personnel.
(F) Predesignated incident facilities are identified within ICS. The determination of the kinds and locations of facilities to be used will be based upon the requirements of the incident.
(G) Comprehensive resource management is the identification, grouping, assignment and tracking of resources.
(H) Integrated communications are managed through the use of a common communications plan and an incident-based communications center established for the use of tactical and support resources assigned to the incident.
(b) Where an agency has jurisdiction over multiple-agency incidents, it shall organize the field response using ICS to provide for coordinated decision-making with emergency response agencies.

Note: Authority cited: Section 8607(a), Government Code. Reference: Sections 8607(a)(1) and (e), Government Code; and Sections 13071 and 13072, Health and Safety Code.

s 2407. Local Governmental Level.
(a) The Standardized Emergency Management System as described under SEMS Organizational Levels and Functions (s2403) shall be utilized:
(1) when the local government emergency operations center is activated.
(2) when a local emergency, as defined in Government Code s8558(c), is declared or proclaimed.
(b) When a local government EOC is activated, communications and coordination shall be established between the Incident Commander(s) and the department operations center(s) to the EOC or between the Incident Commander(s) and the EOC. Coordination of fire and law enforcement resources shall be accomplished through their respective mutual aid systems.
(c) Communications and coordination shall be established between a local governement EOC, when activated, and any state or local emergency response agency having jurisdiction at an incident occurring within that local government's boundaries.
(d) Local government shall use multi-agency or inter-agency coordination to facilitate decisions for overall local government level emergency response activities.

Note: Authority cited: Section 8607(a), Government Code. Reference: Sections 8558(c), 8607(a) and (e), Government Code.

s 2409. Operational Area Level.
(a) "Operational Area Level" means an intermediate level of the state emergency services organization, consisting of a county and all political subdivisions within the county area. Each county geographic area is designated as an operational area. An operational area is used by the county and the political subdivisions comprising the operational area for the coordination of emergency activities and to serve as a link in the system of communications and coordination between the state's emergency operation centers and the operation centers of the political subdivisions comprising the operational area, as defined in Government Code s8559(b) & s8605. This definition does not change the definition of operational area as used in the existing fire and rescue mutual aid system.
(b) All local governments within the county geographic area shall be organized into a single operational area by December 1, 1995, and the county board of supervisors shall be responsible for its establishment.
(c) The operational area authority and responsibility under SEMS shall not be affected by non-participation of any local government(s) within the operational area.
(d) The county government shall serve as the lead agency of the operational area unless another member agency of the operational area assumes that responsibility by written agreement with county government.
(e) The lead agency of the operational area shall:
(1) Coordinate information, resources and priorities among the local governments within the operational area.
(2) Coordinate information, resources and priorities between the regional level and the local government level. Coordination of fire and law enforcement resources shall be accomplished through their respective mutual aid systems.
(3) Use multi-agency or inter-agency coordination to facilitate decisions for overall operational area level emergency response activities.
(f) The operational area EOC shall be activated and SEMS used as described in the SEMS Organizational Levels and Functions (s2403) when any of the following conditions exists:
(1) A local government within the operational area has activated its EOC and requested activation of the operational area EOC to support their emergency operations.
(2) Two or more cities within the operational area have declared or proclaimed a local emergency.
(3) The county and one or more cities have declared or proclaimed a local emergency.
(4) A city, city and county, or county has requested a governor's proclamation of a state of emergency, as defined in Government Code s8558(b).
(5) A state of emergency is proclaimed by the governor for the county or two or more cities within the operational area.
(6) The operational area is requesting resources from outside its boundaries, except those resources used in normal day-to-day operations which are obtained through existing agreements providing for the exchange or furnishing of certain types of facilities and services on a reimbursable, exchange, or other basis as provided for under the Master Mutual Aid Agreement.
(7) The operational area has received resource requests from outside its boundaries, except those resources used in normal day-to-day operations which are obtained through existing agreements providing for the exchange or furnishing of certain types of facilities and services on a reimbursable, exchange, or other basis as provided for under the Master Mutual Aid Agreement.

Note: Authority cited: Section 8607(a), Government Code. Reference: Sections 8607(a), 8558(c), 8559(b), 8605, 8561, 8616, 8617, 8618, Government Code.

s 2411. Regional Level.
(a) The regional level EOC shall be activated and SEMS used as described in SEMS Organizational Levels and Functions (s2403) when any operational area EOC within the mutual aid region is activated.
(b) The lead agency for establishment of the regional level EOC shall be OES.
(c) The location of the regional level EOC shall be identified by OES to accommodate the needs of the operational area(s) served.
(d) When the regional level EOC is activated, communications and coordination shall be established with the operational area(s), the state level EOC, and regional level department operations centers. Coordination of fire and law enforcement resources shall be accomplished through their respective mutual aid systems.
(e) The regional level shall use multi-agency or inter-agency coordination to facilitate decisions for overall regional level emergency response activities.

Note: Authority cited: Section 8607(a), Government Code. Reference: Sections 8607(a), 8600 and 8559(a), Government Code.

s 2413. State Level.
(a) The state level EOC shall be activated and SEMS used as described in SEMS Organizational Levels and Functions (s2403) when any of the following conditions exists:
(1) A regional level EOC is activated.
(2) Upon the governor's proclamation of a state of emergency.
(3) Upon the governor's proclamation of an earthquake or volcanic prediction.
(b) The lead agency for establishment of the state level EOC shall be OES.
(c) When the state level EOC is activated, communications and coordination shall be established with the regional level EOC(s), state level department operations centers, and federal emergency response agencies. Coordination of fire and law enforcement resources shall be accomplished through their respective mutual aid systems.
(d) The state level shall use multi-agency or inter-agency coordination to facilitate decisions for overall state level emergency response activities.

Note: Authority cited: Section 8607(a). Reference: Sections 8607(a) and 8558(b), Government Code.

s 2415. Mutual Aid.
(a) "Mutual Aid" means voluntary aid and assistance by the provision of services and facilities, including but not limited to: fire, police, medical and health, communication, transportation, and utilities. Mutual aid is intended to provide adequate resources, facilities, and other support to jurisdictions whenever their own resources prove to be inadequate to cope with a given situation.
(b) "Mutual Aid System" means the system which allows for the progressive mobilization of resources to/from emergency response agencies, local governments, operational areas, regions, and the state with the intent of providing adequate responces to requesting agencies. The California mutual aid system includes several discipline-specific mutual aid systems (e.g., fire and rescue, law enforcement, medical and public works) which are consistent with the Master Mutual Aid Agreement.
(c) All mutual aid systems and agreements shall be consistent with SEMS and the Master Mutual Aid Agreement.
(d) Unless otherwise provided by agreement, the responsible local official in whose jurisdiction(s) an incident requiring mutual aid has occurred remains in charge and retains overall direction of personnel and equipment provided through mutual aid (as provided for in Government Code s8618).

Note: Authority cited: Section 8607(a), Government Code. Reference: Sections 8607(a)(3), 8561, 8616, 8617 and 8618, Government Code.

s 2425. Establishment and Purpose.
The Director, OES, shall establish the SEMS Advisory Board consisting of representatives from emergency response agencies to provide advice on all aspects of this Chapter.

Note: Authority cited: Section 8607(a), Government Code. Reference: Sections 8607(a) and 8587, Government Code.

s 2428. Minimum Performance Objectives.
(a) Emergency response agencies shall determine the appropriate level(s) of SEMS instruction for each member of their staff, based upon the staff member's potential assignment during an emergency response.
(b) Emergency response agencies shall ensure that their emergency response personnel can demonstrate and maintain, to the level deemed appropriate, the minimum SEMS performance objectives required by their agencies' training programs. Agencies shall use the Minimum Performance Objectives contained in the Approved Course of Instruction (ACI) Syllabus dated March 1, 1995, which are hereby incorporated by reference, as the basis for their training programs. Minimum Performance Objectives are contained in Paragraph D of each Course Module description.
(c) SEMS minimum performance objectives shall be met through completion of materials from the ACI, completion of equivalent courses of instruction, or through incorporation of the objectives into exercises.

Note: Authority cited: Section 8607(a), Government Code. Reference: Sections 8607(a) and (e), Government Code.

s 2443. General Provisions.
(a) Local government must use SEMS in order to be eligible for state funding of response-related personnel costs occurring in response to an incident as defined in s 2402(i). All state agencies shall use SEMS to coordinate multiple jurisdiction or multiple agency emergency and disaster operations.
(b) Compliance with SEMS shall be documented in the areas of planning, training, exercises, and performance.
(c) All applicants for reimbursement of response-related personnel costs shall self-certify compliance with s2445, 2446, 2447, and 2448. This self-certification shall be submitted in writing with the application.
(d) Evidence of compliance with SEMS as set forth in s2445, 2446, 2447, and 2448 shall be available for review.
(e) When the OES Director determines sufficient evidence exists to warrant a SEMS Compliance review, a Review Team shall be established to evaluate the compliance with SEMS of any local government which has requested funding of its response-related personnel costs under disaster assistance programs, or any operational area or state agency. The OES Director shall notify the local government, operational area, or state agency being evaluated, the SEMS Advisory Board, and the fund(s) administrator of any disaster assistance program of the establishment of the Review Team. At a minimum, participants on the Review Team shall include peers of the entity being evaluated, OES staff, and others knowledgeable in emergency operations and SEMS. The Review Team shall meet with the local government, operational area, or state agency being evaluated and solicit all pertinent information. The team may also review records and interview persons knowledgeable on the SEMS compliance activities of the entity being evaluated. The Review Team shall report its findings to the local government, operational area, or state agency that was evaluated, the SEMS Advisory Board, and the OES Director. This report must be issued within ninety (90) days of the establishment of the Review Team.
(f) The SEMS Advisory Board shall examine the Review Team's report within sixty (60) days of submittal of the report. The SEMS Advisory Board shall also consider additional information pertinent to the evaluation. The local government, operational area, or state agency being evaluated may submit additional information to the Board, either verbally or in writing. After consideration, the SEMS Advisory Board shall submit a recommendation to the OES Director. A copy of the recommendation shall be forwarded to the local government, operational area, or state agency being evaluated.
(g) The OES Director shall make a determination on whether or not the local government, operational area, or state agency being evaluated was in compliance with SEMS. This determination shall be forwarded to the local government, operational area, or state agency being evaluated by certified letter within thirty (30) days of the SEMS Advisory Board's recommendation. A copy of the determination shall be provided to the fund(s) administrator of any disaster assistance program.

Note: Authority cited: Section 8607(a), Government Code. Reference: Sections 8607(e), 8682.9 and 8558(c), Government Code.

s 2444. Appeal Process.
(a) In the event the local government, operational area, or state agency being evaluated disagrees with the determination of the OES Director, the local government, operational area, or state agency may request a reconsideration of the determination. The request must be submitted within thirty (30) days of receipt of the letter of determination.
(b) The request for reconsideration shall be in writing and indicate why the local government, operational area, or state agency disagrees with the decision, any new or additional pertinent information, and any legal authority or other basis for the disagreement with the determination.
(c) The OES Director shall review the request for reconsideration and make a determination. The local government, operational area, or state agency that submitted the request for reconsideration shall be notified of the OES Director's decision by certified letter within thirty (30) days of receipt of the request for reconsideration. A copy of the determination shall be provided to the fund(s) administrator of any disaster assistance program.
(d) The OES Director's decision shall be considered final for the purposes of the appeal process.

Note: Authority cited: Section 8607(a), Government Code. Reference: Section 8607(e), Government Code.

s 2445. Planning.
Local governments, operational areas, and state agencies shall include the use of SEMS in emergency plans and procedures pursuant to s2403, 2405, 2407, 2409, 2411, 2413 and 2415.

Note: Authority cited: Section 8607(a), Government Code. Reference: Sections 8607(a), 8607(b), 8607(c) and 8607.2(c), Government Code.

s 2446. Training.
Local governments, operational areas, and state agencies shall document SEMS training provided to its emergency response personnel pursuant to s2428.

Note: Authority cited: Section 8607(a), Government Code. Reference: Section 8607(c), Government Code.

s 2447. Exercises.
Local governments, operational areas, and state agencies shall incorporate the use of SEMS pursuant to s2403, 2405, 2407, 2409, 2411, 2413 and 2415 at all levels of operation when exercises are performed.

Note: Authority cited: Sections 8607(a) and 8607.2(c), Government Code. Reference: Sections 8607(c) and 8607.2(c), Government Code.

s 2448. Performance.
Local governments, operational areas, and state agencies shall document the use of SEMS. Documentation shall include activities performed pursuant to s2403, 2405, 2407, 2409, 2411, 2413 and 2415 during the emergency.

Note: Authority cited: Section 8607(a), Government Code. Reference: Section 8607(d), Government Code.

s 2450. Reporting Requirements.
(a) Any city, city and county, or county declaring a local emergency for which the governor proclaims a state of emergency, and any state agency responding to that emergency shall complete and transmit an after action report to OES within ninety (90) days of the close of the incident period as specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, s2900(j).
(b) The after action report shall, at a minimum, be a review of response actions taken, application of SEMS, suggested modifications to SEMS, necessary modifications to plans and procedures, identified training needs, and recovery activities to date.

Note: Authority cited: Section 8607(a), Government Code. Reference: Section 8607(f), Government Code.

s 2501. Individual and Family Grant Program for Emergencies and Major Disasters.
Whenever the Governor has proclaimed a State of Emergency and the President has declared an emergency or a major disaster to exist in the State, and has authorized the Individual and Family Grant Program (IFGP) as prescribed by Section 408 of the Federal Disaster Relief Act of 1974 (Public Law 93-288), the Governor shall direct the Office of Emergency Services (OES) to take any steps necessary to make the grant program available to he residents of the State.
The OES may designate a State agency to administer the Individual and Family Grant Program, and in accordance with Government Code Section 8654(c) develop the California Administrative Plan for IFGP. The designated agency may contract with local agencies in the affected counties to assist in implementing the program.
Administration of IFGP will be performed in accordance with the terms of the California Administrative Plan for IFGP and with 24 CFR 2205.48.
Eligibility for grants of up to $5,000 will be determined in accordance with the criteria established in 24 CFR 2205.48 and other Housing and Urban Development Department regulations.
The California Administrative Plan for IFGP and the federal regulations referred to above, describe procedures for application and administration; methods of investigation, processing, and approving applications; formation of local or statewide review boards to pass upon applications; and procedures for appeals.

Note: Authority cited: Sections 8587 and 8654, Government Code. Reference: Section 8654, Government Code.

s 2510. Definitions.
(a) "Haz Mat" stands for Hazardous Materials which means a substance which, by its nature, containment and reactivity, has the capability of inflicting harm during an accidental occurrence; characterized as being toxic, corrosive, flammable, reactive, an irritant or strong sensitizer and thereby posing a threat to health and the environment when improperly managed.
(b) "Hazardous Chemicals" is a term used by the United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to denote any chemical that would be a risk to employees if exposed in the workplace. The list of hazardous chemicals is found in OSHA title 29 CFR 1910.1000.
(c) "Hazardous Substances," a term used by the California Occupational Safety and Health Administration's CA Code Regs. Title 8, Section 5192(a)(3)(A), encompasses every chemical regulated by both the Department of Transportation's "hazardous materials" (49 CFR 172.101 and appendices) and the Environmental Protection Agency's "hazardous waste" (40 CFR 261.33), including emergency response (29 CFR 1910.120).
(d) "Hazardous Waste" materials are mixtures of waste which require special handling and disposal because of their potential to damage health and the environment.
(e) "United Nations Hazard Classes" consist of eight classes of hazardous materials as categorized and defined by the Department of Transportation in Federal Register Volume 55, No. 246, Dec. 21, 1990, pages 52402-52729.
(f) "First Responder Awareness Level" are individuals who are likely to witness or discover a hazardous substance release and who have been trained to initiate an emergency response sequence by notifying the proper authorities of the release. They would take no further action beyond notifying the authorities of the release.
(g) "First Responder Operations Level" are individuals who respond to releases or potential releases of hazardous substances as part of the initial response to the site for the purpose of protecting nearby persons, property, or the environment from the effects of the release. They are trained to respond in a defensive fashion without actually trying to stop the release. Their function is to contain the release from a safe distance, keep it from spreading, and prevent exposures.
(h) "Department of Transportation" assures the coordinated, effective administration of the transportation programs of the Federal Government and develops national transportation policies and programs conducive to the provision of fast, safe, efficient and convenient transportation at the lowest cost consistent therewith.
(i) "Material Safety Data Sheet" (MSDS), is a document which contains information regarding the specific identity of hazardous chemicals, including information on health effects, first aid, chemical and physical properties, and emergency phone numbers.
(j) "Exposure" is the subjection of a person to a toxic substance or harmful physical agent through any route of entry.
(k) "Hazardous Materials at the Technician Level" are individuals who respond to releases or potential releases for the purpose of stopping the release. They assume a more aggressive role than a first responder at the operational level in that they will approach the point of release in order to plug, patch, or otherwise stop the release of a hazardous substance.
(l) "Hazardous Materials at the Specialist Level" are individuals who respond with, and provide support to, hazardous materials technicians. Their duties require a more directed or specific knowledge of the various substances they may be called upon to contain. The hazardous materials specialist would also act as the site liaison to federal, state, local and other government authorities in regards to site activities.
(m) "Protective Clothing or Personal Protective Equipment" (PPE), is the equipment provided to shield or isolate a person from the chemical, physical, and thermal hazards that may be encountered at a hazardous materials incident. Adequate personal protective equipment should protect the respiratory system, skin, eyes, face, hands, feet, head, body, and hearing. Personal protective equipment includes both personal protective clothing and self-contained positive-pressure breathing apparatus.
(n) "Containment" includes all activities necessary to bring the incident to a point of stabilization and to establish a degree of safety for emergency personnel greater than that which existed upon arrival.
(o) "Decontamination (Decon)" is the physical and/or chemical process of reducing and preventing the spread of contamination from persons and equipment used at a hazardous materials incident.
(p) "Incident Commander" (IC), is the person responsible for all decisions relating to the management of the incident.
(q) "Incident Command System" (ICS), is an organized system of roles, responsibilities, and standard operating procedures used to manage and direct emergency operations.
(r) "BLEVE" stands for Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion.
(s) "Public Information Officer" (PIO), is the individual assigned to act as the liaison between the Incident Commander and the news media.
(t) "Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest" is the shipping document, originated and signed by the waste generator or an authorized representative, that contains the information required and must accompany shipments of hazardous waste.
(u) "Level of Protective Clothing" includes positive-pressure breathing apparatus, designations of types of personal protective equipment to be worn based on NFPA standards: Level A includes vapor-protective suit for hazardous chemical emergencies, Level B includes liquid-splash protective suit for hazardous chemical emergencies, Level C includes limited-use protective suit for hazardous chemical emergencies.
(v) "Safety Officer" is the person at a hazardous materials incident responsible for assuring that all operations performed at a hazardous materials incident, by all members present, are done with respect for the highest levels of safety. He/she has full authority to alter, suspend, or terminate any activity that may be judged to be unsafe, and reports to the Incident Commander.
(w) "Executive Manager" means the chief executive officer, department head, or key management staff of an agency, organization, or jurisdiction, who has oversight responsibilities for hazardous materials incidents.
(x) "Pre-Event Planning" is the process associated with preparing for the response to a hazard by developing plans, identifying resources, conducting exercises, and other techniques to improve an agency's or organization's response capabilities.
(y) "Event-Specific Plan" is initially prepared at the first meeting of emergency personnel who have responded to an incident. The Event Specific Plan contains general control objectives reflecting overall incident strategy, and specific action plans.
(z) "Mutual Aid" is an agreement to supply specifically agreed upon aid or support in an emergency situation between two or more agencies, jurisdictions, or political subdivisions.
(aa) "Emergency Operations Center" (EOC), is the protected site where government officials exercise centralized direction and control in an emergency. Additionally, the EOC serves as a resource center and coordination point for additional field assistance. It also provides executive directives and acts as a liaison to the State and Federal Government, and, considers and mandates protective actions.
(bb) "Investigations" - The systematic search or inquiry into the particulars of an incident, and the collecting of the necessary evidence to seek criminal and/or civil prosecution.
(cc) "Risk Management Protection Plan" has statutory requirements in Health and Safety Code, section 25534, subsection (1). A plan which encompasses, among other appropriate elements: structured assessment of hazards, formal personnel training program, procedures of periodic safety reviews of operating equipment and procedures, schedules for testing the program, procedures for the purpose of reducing the probability of accidents.
(dd) "Monitoring" to determine contamination levels and atmospheric conditions by observation and samples.
(ee) "Monitoring Equipment" are instruments and devices used to identify, qualify, and/or quantify contaminants.
(ff) "Environmental Monitoring" is the use of instruments and other techniques to determine the presence or levels of hazardous materials.
(gg) "Field Training Program" refers to the California Hazardous Substances Incident Response Training and Education Program as defined in section 8574.20 of the California Government Code.
(hh) "CSTI" refers to the "California Specialized Training Institute".
(ii) "Authorized Representative". Any person, or group of people, authorized in writing by the Chief of the Hazardous Materials Section of CSTI to: conduct specific tasks related to the administration or delivery of training activities that are part of the California Hazardous Substances Incident Response Training and Education Program; conduct audits under the provisions of this program; or perform other specific tasks as directed by the Chief of the Hazardous Materials Section.
(jj) "Course Manager". The individual California State Certified Hazardous Materials Instructor responsible for ensuring that a certified course meets the requirements of these regulations.
(kk) "Instructor". An individual person who instructs a portion of a certified course, assists with an exercise in a certified course or performs other acts or tasks in support of the instruction of a certified class.
(ll) "Certified Class". A class that meets the requirements of the regulations regarding the California Hazardous Substances Incident Response Training and Education Program (Title 19, California Code of Regulations, Division 2, Chapter 1, Sub-Chapter 2, Sections 2510-2560).
(mm) "EMT-P". A person certified as an Emergency Medical Technician at the Paramedic level as per standards set forth by the Emergency Medical Services Authority.
(nn) "EMT-1". A person certified as an Emergency Medical Technician Level 1 by the Emergency Medical Services Authority.

Note: Authority cited: Section 8574.20(a), Government Code. Reference: Hazardous Substances Emergency Response Training, Section 8574.20(b), Government Code.

s 2520. Student Certification Curriculum.
(a) Haz Mat Emergency Response - First Responder Awareness Level.
(1) Certified curriculum for First Responder Awareness Level shall include all of the following course objectives:
(A) Student shall define the term "hazardous materials"; identify how hazardous materials can harm people, the environment and property; and state the role of the First Responder at the Awareness level as defined by Title 8 California Code of Regulations s5192(q)(6)(A).

(B) Student shall recognize a Haz Mat incident through basic clues, warning signs, placards, labels, shipping papers, and material safety data sheets; identify, from a safe distance, the hazardous substance(s) present at the incident; understand the need for a positive safety attitude; and, describe a safe approach to a Haz Mat incident.
(C) Student shall describe first responder awareness actions, understanding the need for responder safety, isolation of the incident scene, the need for additional resources and making required notifications.
(D) Student shall identify the purpose and need to safely initiate command; cite basic identification and assessment techniques; demonstrate the use of the Department of Transportation North American Emergency Response Guidebook (current DOT NAERG) for basic action planning.
(2) Certified curriculum for First Responder Awareness Level shall include all of the current course material listed in Section 2540(t).
(3) Certified curriculum for First Responder Awareness Course shall be a minimum of 4 hours in length.

(4) Certified curriculum for First Responder Awareness Course shall include the following training exercise:
(A) Participation in a table-top exercise including successful completion of the following objectives:
(i) Determine if a hazardous material exists and what notifications are necessary;
(ii) Identify safety techniques, isolation methods, and agencies and resources needed;
(iii) Conduct safe identification and assessment using the current NA ERG; and,
(iv) Identify essential information to give to the Incident Commander.
(5) Certified curriculum for First Responder Awareness Course shall include the following evaluation method:
(A) Completion of a CSTI certified First Responder Awareness written exam with a minimum passing score of 70% correct.
(6) Certification for participants in the First Responder Awareness Course shall include successful completion of a certified course as referenced in section 2520(a) as delivered by a CSTI certified instructor as referenced in section 2530. Student shall meet a minimum attendance of 4 hours, accomplish all objectives, participate in the training exercise and complete the evaluation method at the 70% standard as referenced in section 2520 (a).
(b) Haz Mat Emergency Response - First Responder Operations Level.
(1) Certified curriculum for First Responder Operations Level shall include all of the course objectives in Section 2520(a)(1) and all of the following course objectives:
(A) Student shall state the role of the First Responder at the Operations level as defined by Title 8 California Code of Regulations s5192(q)(6)(B).
(B) Student shall define basic terms used in emergency responses to releases of hazardous materials.

(C) Student shall describe basic first responder operations initial actions.
(D) Student shall explain the purpose, need and benefits, of scene management; describe the basic implementation of the Incident Command System (ICS) to manage a Haz Mat incident; and, demonstrate proper information flow from First Responder to Incident Commander at an incident command post.
(E) Student shall describe identification and assessment techniques and demonstrate the use of the current Department of Transportation North American Emergency Response Guidebook for basic action planning.
(F) Student shall explain the need for, types, selection criteria and limits of protective equipment commonly used in Haz Mat incidents.
(G) Student shall describe the value, methods and limitations of stabilizing the Haz Mat incident through safe containment; and, describe the proper protective action and rescue options available to first responders, within their capabilities and resources.
(H) Student shall identify the need for the appropriate decontamination of the victims, emergency response personnel and equipment, in order to avoid additional contamination; and, describe proper disposal and documentation procedures during a Haz Mat response.
(I) Student shall identify the need and method to communicate and coordinate with typical agencies from all levels of government having authorized activities dealing with a Haz Mat event, citing those agencies, their roles/responsibilities and capabilities.
(J) Student shall identify the local contingency plan to follow in his/her jurisdiction when dealing with a Haz Mat incident; and to describe the purpose, value, components, and limits of both pre-event and event-specific planning.
(K) Student shall describe the health effects that Haz Mats present to the first responder's life safety.
(L) Student shall describe a process for a safe and competent response to a Haz Mat incident, including explanation of the "risk vs. gain" concept.
(M) Student shall demonstrate proper and safe first-responder actions in a simulated Haz Mat incident.

(N) Student shall identify the legal role and rights of the media at a Haz Mat incident; describe the media capabilities that may aid in the incident response; and, cite basic Haz Mat legal aspects.
(2) Certified Curriculum for First Responder Operations Level shall include all of the current course material listed in Section 2540(t).
(3) Certified curriculum for First Responder Operations Course shall be a minimum of 16 hours in length if the class participants have not had First Responder Awareness training meeting the minimum competencies specified in Title 8, California Code of Regulations, Section 5192(q). If all of the class participants have had such training and present proof of that to the Course Manager then the minimum hours for a Certified Course may be 12 hours. A Certified Course 12 hours in length shall meet only the course objectives of this Section and may delete the course objectives in Section 2520(a)(1).
(4) Certified curriculum for First Responder Operations Course shall include the following training exercises:
(A) Demonstrate proper use of the current Department of Transportation North American Emergency Response Guide Book to include the following:

(i) Given ten or more United Nations four digit numbers and or chemical names, participants will identify guide number including primary hazard, basic actions, and isolation and protective action distances as needed.
(B) Participation in a simulated field Haz Mat exercise including successful completion of the following objectives:
(i) Demonstrate proper safety, isolation and notifications for a simulated Haz Mat incident;
(ii) Based on a simulated Haz Mat release, demonstrate the basic identification process using the current DOT guidebook;
(iii) Based on an identification and hazard assessment process, identify the proper safe containment and protective action options; and,
(iv) Identify essential information to be given by the First Responder to the Incident Commander.
(5) Certified curriculum for First Responder Operations Course shall include the following evaluation method:
(A) Completion of a CSTI certified First Responder Operations written exam with a minimum passing score of 70% correct.
(6) Certification for participants in the First Responder Operations Course shall include successful completion of a certified course as referenced in section 2520(b) as delivered by a CSTI certified instructor as referenced in section 2530. Student shall meet a minimum attendance of 16 hours, except as noted in Paragraph (3) of this Section, accomplish all objectives, participate in training exercises and complete the evaluation method at the 70% standard as referenced in section 2520(b). (continued)