Key Questions
The following key questions are answered in this module:
Who wrote the ERG, and who updates it?
The ERG was first issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) in 1973, and the current principal authors represent the U.S. and Canada. The ERG is updated every four years through joint efforts of the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
Who uses the ERG, and why do they need it?
The ERG is used by law enforcement officers, firefighters, medical personnel, and other emergency response personnel in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and several South American countries. Its purpose is to help them protect themselves and the public during the "initial response phase" of an emergency.
What is the "initial response phase"?
It includes those first few minutes after emergency responders arrive at the scene. During this critical period, the presence and/or identification of hazardous materials is established, protective actions and area securement are initiated, and the assistance of qualified personnel is requested.
How does one begin to use the ERG?
The white section at the front contains instructions on how to use the ERG and other critical information needed to initiate a response. This section is designed to be consulted first.
How is the information organized in the ERG?
The ERG has six color-coded sections that are arranged roughly in the order they are accessed during an incident.