Rules - Chemical accident rule

 The Chemical Accidents (Emergency Planning, Preparedness and Response) Rules, 1996 include provisions for the management of chemical accidents, such as:

Crisis groups

The rules require the formation of District Crisis Groups and Local Crisis Groups within 30 days of the rules coming into effect. The District Crisis Group meets every 45 days and sends a report to the State Crisis Group. The Local Crisis Group meets every month and sends a copy of its proceedings to the District Crisis Group. 

Central Crisis Group

The Central Crisis Group is the apex body for dealing with major chemical accidents. It monitors the post-accident situation, suggests measures to prevent future accidents, and provides expert guidance. 

Major accident notification

The occupier of a site or pipeline must notify the concerned authority within 48 hours of a major accident. They must also provide a report on the accident in installments as needed. 

Safety reports

Occupiers must not make any modifications to the industrial activity covered by a safety report without first making a further report and sending it to the concerned authority. 

Chemical accidents can be caused by natural disasters, human error, or deliberate acts. They are generally industrial-scale accidents that can have significant offsite consequences. 

To prevent chemical accidents, you can:

Avoid mixing chemicals, especially common household products like ammonia and bleach.

Read and follow the directions when using a new product.

Don't use some products in small, confined spaces. 

Here are some rules related to chemical accidents:

Notifications 

The occupier of a chemical accident must notify the Chemical Accidents Unit within 24 hours of the incident and submit a report within 72 hours. 

Emergency planning

The Central Government must establish a Crisis Alert System and a Central Crisis Group for managing chemical accidents. 

Safety management

The Government of India has enacted rules such as the EPPR Rules, MSIHC Rules, SMPV Rules, CMV Rules, Gas Cylinder Rules, and Hazardous Waste Rules to strengthen the legal framework for chemical safety and accident management. 

Safety procedures

During a chemical accident, you should:

Evacuate quickly and calmly in a direction perpendicular to the wind. 

Use a wet cloth or handkerchief to cover your face while evacuating. 

Do not panic. 

Some other safety tips for handling chemicals include:

Wearing protective clothing, gloves, eye protection, and face protection

Washing thoroughly after handling chemicals

Storing chemicals in a locked area

Keeping chemicals in their original containers

Avoiding breathing dust, fumes, gas, mist, vapors, or spray