Oregon's Hazardous Materials Response and Readiness
The Oregon State Fire Marshal takes a multi-pronged approach in being prepared for and responding to incidents involving hazardous materials. The agency oversees 12 Regional Hazardous Material Emergency Response Teams across Oregon. The teams are trained and equipped to support local first responders when emergencies go beyond their resources. Along with emergency response, the teams offer outreach and training to local responders and industries, ensuring communities are prepared. The state fire marshal also works on specialized hazmat by rail training to help firefighters and hazardous materials teams respond to rail-specific incidents, including hands-on training for handling hazardous materials on railcars.The Community Right to Know program, part of Oregon's commitment to public safety, ensures that information about hazardous substances stored in local communities is accessible to first responders, planners, and the public. This transparency helps everyone take measures to protect their health, safety, and the environment.
Local Emergency Planning Committees work closely with the regional hazmat teams and the rail industry to enhance preparedness through training, exercises, and planning. These committees are part of a larger network overseen by the State Emergency Response Commission, which helps coordinate state-wide efforts to manage hazardous materials incidents and protect Oregon residents.
This page offers valuable resources for Oregonians, first responders, and industry professionals. Together we're working to keep Oregon protected.