Detailed knowledge of all chemical spills would provide valuable accident information that could be used to reduce the frequency of hazardous substance releases or subsequent injuries in the future. The following information responds to the most commonly asked questions about the project. The project is a state-based surveillance system established to describe the public health consequences associated with the accidental release of hazardous substances. To identify risk factors associated with the morbidity and mortality. To identify strategies that might reduce future morbidity and mortality from the uncontrolled accidental release of hazardous substances.
Staff also identify spills reported by the media and local health departments.
For the detailed data, DOH staff contact firefighters, the police, medical personnel, hazmat teams, and other persons who respond to incidents. DOH staff sometimes follow up with telephone calls to local emergency management offices and Local Emergency Planning Committees. For example, a serious chemical fire at a small farm services business in rural upstate New York recently injured several people and caused a large evacuation. After the fire, DOH staff contacted the Fire Chief to collect information about the circumstances of the release, the chemicals and responders involved, and the injuries which resulted from the incident. He was able to provide us with detailed and specific information about the evacuation and the injuries.