By Einar Jensen, Risk Reduction Coordinator
Evergreen Fire/Rescue
Many businesses in our district have hazardous materials, but not necessarily the scary ones
associated with industrial extraction and manufacturing facilities. A hazardous material is a
substance that poses a risk to health, safety, property, and/or our environment when it is used,
stored, or transported incorrectly.
Examples are cleaning supplies, flammable liquids, caustic substances, paints, fertilizer,
herbicides, and pesticides.
It’s important to transport, store, and use these materials in accordance with the
manufacturers’ directions to prevent injuries, illness, and property/environmental damage.
Few businesses have enough of these substances to require code-approved storage or signage,
but all business owners with hazardous materials should have Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for each chemical in their buildings.
Safety Data Sheet or MSDS) is a standardized document that
contains safety and health information. They include chemical properties, potential hazards,
and recommended protective measures.
SDS is a resource for employees for day-to-day usage and firefighters if emergencies occur.
That’s why our fire inspectors ask to see SDS for hazardous materials.
Most spills can be handled internally by employees, but for larger spills (as noted in SDS) or if
you aren’t sure how to hand a spill, call 911. Also call 911 for injuries, illnesses, fires, or
environmental incidents to notify firefighters and other responders with specialized training
and resources.
Evergreen Fire/Rescue does not accept hazardous materials for disposal or recycling.
To dispose of these materials safely, contact the Rooney Road Recycling Center in Golden,
according to the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment, and your trash and
recycling providers for their rules and recommendations.
We at EFR are committed to our community. Contact our fire inspectors with fire code
questions at fireprevention@evergreenfirerescue.com.
