Wood preservation facilities, pentachlorophenol pressure: chapter E-12

12. Environmental Emergency Notification and Contingency Planning

Preparedness for emergencies is essential in any wood preservation facility. Hence, facilities using PCP/oil should prepare detailed contingency plans and have them readily available to ensure that response to spills and fires is quick, safe and effective.

12.1 Environmental Emergency Notification

The Environmental Emergency Regulations and its requirements are applicable for PCP since it contains polychlorinated dibenzodioxins (Dioxins), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (Furans) and hexachlorobenzene, listed in Schedule 1 of CEPA 1999.

Please refer to Section 12.1 of Part I, Chapter A - General Recommendations for All Wood Preservatives.

12.2 Spill Contingency Planning

Please refer to Section 12.2 of Part I, Chapter A - General Recommendations for All Wood Preservatives.

12.3 Fire Contingency Planning

Although PCP is not flammable, work solutions of PCP and carrier oils are flammable. Extreme caution is to be exercised at fires involving PCP. If solid PCP is exposed to fire, or if combustion of PCP/oil mixtures occurs, the PCP will decompose, creating fumes containing hydrochloric acid, and likely dioxins as well. All fire residues must be considered contaminated and must be contained for analysis and disposal as appropriate (see Table 23).

Please refer to the National Fire Code of Canada (always refer to last version available) (31) for proper fire extinguishing agents and other requirements for contingency plans, and refer to Section 12.3 of Part I, Chapter A - General Recommendations for All Wood Preservatives. A copy of the fire contingency plan and all necessary documents should be stored in a fire proof box outside the entrance to the facility.