HazMat First Responders 5th - Demonstrate the Proper Use of pH Paper to Identify Hazards

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This skill video will demonstrate how to use pH paper to identify hazards.
WARNING: If this skill involves the use of actual hazardous material samples, hazardous materials can cause serious injury or fatality. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn and safety precautions must be followed. The following skill sheet demonstrates general steps; specific hazmat incidents may differ in procedure. Always follow AHJ’s procedures for specific incidents.
1. Ensure proper detection, monitoring, or sampling method and equipment is chosen.
2. Ensure that all responders are wearing appropriate PPE.
3. Inspect the paper to ensure it has not been exposed or expired.
4. Remove a piece of appropriate size pH paper from the roll or remove strip from the container and secure the paper.
5. Sample the product.
NOTE: If monitoring vapors or gases, pH paper should be wetted.
6. Compare results to pH paper color scale to determine if the product is an acid, a base, or neutral. Record results.
NOTE: Confirmation of a corrosive atmosphere will eliminate the use of electronic meters for further testing.
7. Report results according to AHJ’s procedures.
8. Dispose of pH paper in accordance with appropriate regulations.
9. Decontaminate equipment and return to operational state per manufacturer’s instructions.
10. Complete required reports and supporting documentation.