ABC or CBRN hazardous substances
We live in an industrialized society and benefit from the possibilities of modern technology. But no technology is without risks. Despite all safety standards, it is also part of our lives that hazardous substances can be released. For example, in the event of an accident involving a hazardous goods transporter, a fire in a factory or a warehouse with chemical products. Careless handling of household cleaners at home can also be dangerous.
What is a hazardous substance?
The spectrum of hazardous substances is wide. A distinction is made between nuclear (A), biological (B) and chemical (C) hazardous substances, and more recently between chemical (C), biological (B), radiological (R) and nuclear (N) hazardous substances.
CBRN hazardous substances can occur as gases, vapors, aerosols, liquids or solids. A layperson is usually unable to recognize the danger, so if something happens, report it to the rescue coordination centre (Tel. 112) or the poison control center (ask for the number of the poison control center in your area and make a note of it on the back of this brochure). In the event of major incidents, listen out for announcements on the radio or by loudspeaker vehicles.
Chemical hazardous substances
Chemicals have a very wide range of different effects. Many substances are flammable or even explosive, can have a corrosive effect or are toxic. Sometimes they have several effects at the same time. In most cases, they have their greatest effect when absorbed into the body. This can happen through the skin, ingestion or inhalation. Particular caution is required with gaseous substances. As most gases and vapors are heavier than air, they can collect in sinks or basements. If chemicals are released, such locations should therefore be avoided.
Biological hazardous substances
Biologically hazardous substances include bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites and toxins. Under certain circumstances, they can cause serious illnesses in humans. Absorption into the body occurs primarily via mucous membranes (respiratory tract, digestive tract, eyes) and the skin (wounds). If there is a risk of ingestion via the respiratory tract, at least temporary respiratory protection should be used, such as DIY face masks.
Radioactive substances
Radiological (R) and nuclear (N) substances describe the different ways in which radioactive contamination can be spread. Radioactive substances emit high-energy, ionizing radiation. This radiation can damage living cells and kill them or cause cancer. The ingestion of radioactive substances into the body poses a particular risk. This can occur through inhalation, ingestion and the skin (wounds). Alpha radiation in particular (a type of ionizing radiation) poses a high risk potential. Respiratory protection helps to prevent absorption into the lungs. Ionizing radiation is attenuated when it penetrates matter. In basements, the attenuation is particularly high due to the adjacent layer of earth and upper floors.
Behavior in case of release of hazardous substances
Hazardous substances are in the air or water? What should you do now? Listen out for announcements on the radio, TV or from loudspeaker vehicles. Get information on the Internet. And also inform other residents.
In the house
- Stay in the building.
- Take in vulnerable passers-by temporarily.
- If necessary, inform other residents.
- Close windows and doors.
- Switch off fans and air conditioning systems and close the ventilation slots in the window frames.
- Find a sheltered room in your home, preferably without any outside windows.
- In the event of a release of radioactive substances, preferably go to a cellar room.
- Avoid unnecessary oxygen consumption by candles or similar.
- Turn on the radio (FM, regional stations) or television for your information.
- Pay attention to the announcements of the authorities and emergency services.
- Only make phone calls in emergencies.
- If hazardous substances enter, use available respiratory protection equipment, if necessary an improvised face mask (surgical masks, cloths ...).
Outdoors
- Pay attention to announcements from the police or fire department.
- If possible, move at right angles to the wind direction and breathe through a respirator, or at least through a handkerchief.
- Look for the nearest closed building.
- If you have already come into contact with hazardous substances, change your outer clothing and shoes when entering the building.
- Pack soiled outer clothing and shoes in plastic bags and place them outside the living area, if possible in front of the building.
- First wash your hands thoroughly, then your face and hair, as well as your nose and ears with soap and water.
- If biological substances are released, hand disinfection is also recommended.
- Follow the instructions for staying indoors.
In the car
- Switch off the ventilation and close the windows.
- Listen to the radio (FM, regional stations) and follow the instructions of the authorities and emergency services.
- Otherwise, go to the nearest closed building, ask to be let in and follow the instructions for staying in buildings.
Further offers
- Disaster control Aachen city region
- Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance
- German Weather Service
- Flood control centers of the federal states
- NINA App
- Common contact point
- Explosive ordnance disposal