• Fire control measures include firefighting personnel and equipment, as well as detection and alarm systems.
• Sanitary measures have to do with food, water, hygiene, and living conditions.

Fire is among the deadliest of work hazards. Due to the nature of many hazardous substances at hazardous waste cleanup sites, fire is a real threat. Control measures must be in place to help protect against fire once it starts.

The different forms of fire protection that might be found at a site include:

• A fire brigade;
• Portable fire extinguishers;
• Standpipe and hose systems;
• Fixed fire suppression equipment, like automatic sprinkler systems;
• Fire detection systems; and
• Employee alarm systems.

Sanitation is yet another control measure. Sanitary measures are used to maintain an acceptable level of personal hygiene and to reduce the likelihood of exposure to hazardous substances through ingestion or dermal contact. Sanitary measures that must be taken at a hazardous waste cleanup site include the following:

• Adequate washing facilities must be provided for those engaged in operations involving hazardous substances. These facilities must be provided in areas where exposures are below permissible exposure limits (PELs) or published exposure levels.
• Adequate numbers of toilets must be provided.
• If the site is operating for six months or longer, showers and changing rooms must also be provided.
• If sleeping quarters are provided, they must be heated, ventilated, and lighted.
• Food-handling measures must meet local codes.
• Potable and non-potable water systems must be kept separate.
• Non-potable water systems must be clearly marked, indicating that the water is unsafe for drinking, washing, or cooking.
• Portable containers used for drinking water must be designed to prevent contamination of the water, be clearly marked as drinking water, and be equipped with a tap. Employees must not be allowed to dip water from the container.