When responders call CHEMTREC, they aren't reaching a call center, they're connecting with an experienced Emergency Operations Center team that's available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

In this episode of The Hazmat Files, we go behind the scenes to explore what really happens after the phone rings. Learn how CHEMTREC's Emergency Operations Center gathers critical information, connects responders with product manufacturers and technical specialists, coordinates with carriers and government agencies, and helps provide the information needed to support safe, informed decision-making during hazardous materials incidents.

Whether you're responding to a highway accident, rail derailment, warehouse fire, or chemical release, this conversation highlights why CHEMTREC is far more than an emergency phone number, it's a connection to one of the largest hazardous materials emergency response networks.

Special Guests:

• Andrew LaVanway, Chief Executive, CHEMTREC
• Kevin Lavezzo, Associate Director, Operations Center, CHEMTREC

The 2026 award opportunities closed on Sept. 4. Stay tuned for more information on scholarships and HELP Awards that will be offered in 2027.

• Hazardous Materials Instructor of the Year Award and Scholarship

• Hazardous Materials Officer of the Year Award and Scholarship

• HELP Award | CHEMTREC®

During a hazardous materials incident, air monitoring is a critical tool for protecting responders, the public, and the environment. But collecting readings is only the first step, the real challenge is understanding what those readings mean and using them to make informed decisions in rapidly changing conditions.

In this episode of The Hazmat Files, industry experts discuss how the Emergency Response Planning Guidelines (ERPGs) help turn air monitoring data into actionable information. Learn how ERPG values support protective action decisions such as evacuation and shelter-in-place, and how air monitoring guides response efforts from initial assessment through recovery.

Special Guests:

• Christopher Kuhlman, PhD, CIH, DABT, Vice President, Emergency Response, Onterris

• Michele Twilley, Chief Science Officer, American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA)

This episode of The Hazmat Files explores the unique challenges of maritime incidents and what land-based responders need to know when emergencies occur aboard vessels. Joined by experienced marine firefighting professionals who share real-world insights on ship design, hazardous cargo, access limitations, and the risks of applying traditional land-based tactics in maritime environments. The conversation emphasizes the importance of coordination with ship crews, salvors, and agencies under a unified command structure for responder safety and effective incident management. Listeners will also gain practical lessons learned from past incidents, highlighting the need for specialized training, risk assessment, and slowing down to make informed decisions during these complex, high-risk incidents.

Special Guests:

• Jim Elliott, Chief Operating Officer, T&T Group of Companies
• Chauncey Naylor, Academy Director, Resolve Marine
• Trace Barrow, Battalion Chief (Ret.), Jacksonville Fire Rescue Department

This episode of The Hazmat Files tackles the evolving challenges of toxic and poison inhalation hazards (TIH/PIH) for emergency responders. Host Erica Fischer and chemical industry guests break down the properties of key chemicals, share real-world case studies, and discuss essential training, equipment, and strategies for staying safe amid changing risks. Listeners will gain practical insights to help them recognize, prepare for, and respond confidently to TIH/PIH incidents.

Special Guests:

• Matt Bond, Manager, Logistics, Westlake
• Matt Paynter, Emergency Response and Preparedness Manager, Nutrien
• Ryan Goldsmith, Global Emergency Response Leader, The Chemours Company

This episode of The Hazmat Files explores the critical skills and strategies first responders need when facing chemical facility incidents. Seasoned emergency response leaders: Pete Kirk, Keith Silverman, and Brian Ramsey discuss practical insights, real-world challenges, and actionable steps to help shape responses at chemical facilities.

Special Guests:

• Brian Ramsey, Owner, Emergency Response Training Group
• Keith Silverman, Partner, GoldShield TEAM
• Pete Kirk, NA ES&S Operations Leader, Dow

In this episode of The Hazmat Files, we explore the growing threat of lithium-ion battery fires—power sources behind everyday technology that can turn volatile when they fail. Joined by Lt. John Cassidy (FDNY), Steve Sitton (GrayMar Environmental), and Sean Tuthill (AARCO Environmental), the discussion covers the risks, causes, and response strategies tied to these incidents. From prevention and public education to emergency response and remediation, this episode offers essential insights for anyone concerned with safety in a battery-powered world.

Special Guests:

• Lieutenant John Cassidy, Fire Department City of New York (FDNY)
• Sean Tuthill, Director of Waste Management, AARCO Environmental
• Steve Sitton, Director of Programs and Training, GrayMar Environmental Services

In this timely episode of The Hazmat Files, we examine the shifting landscape of hazardous materials response—from emerging chemical threats to the evolving standards of preparedness. Industry leaders share insights on the biggest risks facing teams today, the tools and training shaping tomorrow's response, and how hazmat teams can stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're a seasoned responder or new to the field, this episode offers a clear-eyed look at where hazmat is headed.

Special Guests:

• Chris Hawley, Partner and COO, EMSOL
• Toby Frost, Training Program Manager, Safeware, Inc./Hazard3

In this episode of The Hazmat Files, CSX's Michael Scully offers a boots-on-the-ground perspective on the company's Standard of Care— a comprehensive approach to rail safety, incident response, and community recovery. From emergency coordination to long-term environmental stewardship, discover how CSX integrates public safety into every layer of its operations and supports communities before, during, and after rail incidents.

In this eye-opening episode of The Hazmat Files, we dive into the volatile world of monomers and polymerization—chemical processes that can escalate quickly in emergency scenarios. Our guests break down how these reactive substances behave, the warning signs of polymerization, and what first responders need to know to approach a scene safely.