2020 ERG – Emergency Response Guidebook Updates
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The new 2020 version of the Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) is finally out, and hard copies are now available. The ERG is published every 4 years.
⚡ TL;DR: The 2020 ERG features updated hazmat classifications, new lithium battery markings, revised UN numbers, and updated isolation distances. All facilities handling or transporting hazardous materials must have current ERG copies readily available for emergency response coordination.
What is the ERG?
The ERG contains emergency response information and is a handbook used by emergency and hazardous materials incident responders, truck drivers, railroad personnel, pipeline personnel, pilots, police and firefighters. It is written and updated by four separate international agencies.
⚠️ What’s at stake: Using outdated ERG guidance during a hazmat incident can result in improper emergency response, facility evacuation failures, environmental contamination, and personnel injuries. Facilities without current ERG versions face potential OSHA and DOT violations with penalties up to $15,000+ per instance.
Updates
The four agencies have been working on this latest version since 2017. Key changes include: White Pages with improved illustrations and new lithium battery markings; Orange Pages with comprehensive review of all materials; Yellow/Blue Pages with updated UN numbers; and Green Pages with new isolation and protective action distances.
Does your facility have current hazmat emergency response procedures and up-to-date reference materials? iSi Environmental helps manufacturers and transporters ensure readiness for hazardous materials incidents through training, procedure review, and documentation compliance. Get started →
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) and who is required to use it?
The Emergency Response Guidebook is a critical resource published by international agencies every four years that provides emergency response information for hazardous materials incidents. First responders, truck drivers, railroad personnel, pipeline operators, and law enforcement must consult the ERG when responding to hazardous materials spills or releases. iSi Environmental recommends that all facilities handling or transporting hazardous materials maintain current ERG copies in easily accessible locations.
Q: How often is the Emergency Response Guidebook updated?
The ERG is updated and republished every four years by a consortium of international agencies that have been coordinating these updates since the guidebook’s inception. Facilities and emergency responders must ensure they are using the current version, as it contains the latest hazardous materials classifications, UN numbers, and emergency isolation distances. The 2020 version represents the most recent guidance available for hazardous materials response.
Q: What are the key changes in the 2020 ERG edition?
The 2020 ERG includes updated White Pages with improved illustrations and new lithium battery markings, comprehensive Orange Pages reviewing all materials, updated Yellow and Blue Pages with revised UN numbers, and Green Pages containing new isolation and protective action distances. These updates reflect changes in hazardous materials classifications and emergency response best practices recognized by EPA, DOT, and other regulatory agencies.
Q: Is the ERG required for RCRA compliance?
While the ERG itself is not a RCRA document, it is an essential tool for facilities and transporters managing hazardous waste under RCRA regulations. The ERG provides emergency response procedures that complement RCRA compliance requirements. iSi Environmental works with facilities to integrate ERG guidance into their hazardous waste management and emergency response plans.
💰 The cost of non-compliance: Hazmat transportation violations without proper emergency response documentation can result in DOT fines of $10,000 to $27,500 per violation. Facility emergency response failures can trigger OSHA citations for inadequate emergency action plans (up to $16,000+) and environmental cleanup liability costs.
Every satisfactory compliance program starts with knowing where the gaps are. iSi Environmental helps industrial and manufacturing facilities develop hazmat emergency response procedures and maintain current documentation standards. Schedule a compliance review →
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