"A
well written resource providing a straightforward approach to
identification of all types of unknowns - commercial materials, hazardous
decomposition products, military chemical and potential biological agents.
Using a combination of technical details, practical examples and humor,
Mr. Houghton describes not only the various methods of field analysis, but
also provides proven strategies for applying these methods. Most
importantly, he provides insight into how to avoid critical, and
potentially dangerous, mistakes. A valuable addition to the library of any
first responder, emergency manager, or field analytical chemist." Hank Ellison,
Cerberus
Associates
"Rick
Houghton's Emergency Characterization of Unknown Materials brings a needed
practical look at identification of materials in the field for the first
responder. First responders, whether hazardous materials technicians, bomb
disposal technicians, crime scene investigators, narcotics investigators,
public health environmental specialists, or environmental protection
specialists are most often not trained as chemists. Houghton's book
examines field identification in terms that these technical,
non-scientists can easily understand, and allow them to safely and
efficiently apply these techniques in their incident response. In today's
world, with hazardous materials being an often encountered response, and
the concerns of use of weapons of mass destruction by terrorists on the
minds of many responders, this user friendly book is a treasure for the
responder to study and refer to."
Paul R. Laska,
Paul
R. Laska Forensic Consulting, Inc.
Sergeant
(retired) commanding Bomb Disposal Team, Martin County Sheriff's Office,
Stuart, FL
What a reference tool for any level
responder! The topics are easy to follow and easy to understand. As a haz
mat instructor this book would benefit any of my classes. Great strategy
ideas guide the responder and help characterize unknown material. A GREAT
addition to any haz mat reference shelf.
Jay Daum
Department of Homeland
Security, Customs and Border Protection
Firefighter and Haz Mat
Technician/Instructor
Emergency
Characterization of Unknown Materials provides a comprehensive review
of information that emergency responders must know when attempting to
mitigate releases involving unknown materials. The book provides
practical examples and diagrams that will help responders in analyzing a
situation and making the correct decision. Scott H. Tobey
Professor, School of Criminal Justice
Michigan State University
Few people are
as passionate and committed to this subject as Rick. His book provides an
easy to read and understand guide to HAZMAT and should form part of any
HAZMAT team's reference arsenal. Captain Peter-John Jacobs
