ERG 2020

Functionality & Mechanism

This digital field guide from the U.S. Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is a rapid-response resource for hazmat incidents. The application provides an indexed, searchable database of dangerous goods, identifiable by their ID numbers. It facilitates immediate access to critical information on general hazards, recommended safety precautions, and initial response guidance for use within the first 30 minutes of an emergency, streamlining on-scene decision-making for responders.

Development & Context

• The app was developed by PHMSA to provide first responders with convenient mobile access to the official Emergency Response Guidebook.
• The underlying guidebook is a collaborative manual compiled with transportation authorities in Canada, Argentina, and Mexico.
• A key partnership with the National Library of Medicine supported the development and distribution of the free application.
• The 2020 version integrates updated protective distance mapping and new data-sharing capabilities using URLs.

Intended Use & Scope

The application is designed primarily for first responders requiring immediate guidance during the initial phase of a hazardous materials incident. The news coverage notes it also serves hazmat shippers who can print specific pages for regulatory compliance. The tool provides reference information for initial response and is not a substitute for comprehensive training or expert consultation.