Original Date: 03/17/1997
Revision Date: 01/18/2007

Polaroid’s corporate policy requires each division to establish emergency preparedness plans which are integrated with building, site, and community plans. Approximately three years ago, the Chemicals Division (and other Waltham site divisions) set up and began operating a Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Response Team. The HAZMAT Response Team not only complies with Polaroid’s statutory requirements, but also promotes good business and community relations.

HAZMAT team members serve voluntarily and are selected based on their knowledge and experience with Polaroid’s facilities, processes, and/or chemicals. Team members must pass an annual HAZMAT physical examination as prescribed by OSHA. Additionally, the members must undergo an initial 24-hour training session customized to the Waltham site’s hazards, features, and equipment. New members attend company-sponsored HAZMAT technician courses (e.g., Basic Response Procedures; Personal Protective Equipment and Decontamination). Team members also participate in monthly training and drills, and in local, regional, and nationally-sponsored HAZMAT exercises.

Typically, HAZMAT team members are highly motivated individuals who genuinely want to use their specialized knowledge and skills to help Polaroid, their co-workers, and the community. Polaroid publicizes the HAZMAT team activities to recognize the valuable contribution of these volunteers, and provides training, equipment, and service awards. Like any emergency response effort, additional equipment requirements are uncovered as the nature and circumstances of incidents vary and as more technologically advanced tools for response/reaction emerge.

The HAZMAT Response Team continues to successfully respond to HAZMAT emergencies. Besides working closely with the local community to integrate their mutual efforts, the Response Team meets Polaroid’s corporate policy for emergency preparedness plans.

For more information see the Point of Contact for this survey.