MAJOR
INCIDENT
Unit
ABOUT
Environmental Protection Units (EPUs) are specialist modules or vehicles designed to mitigate and contain hazardous substances that pose a risk to the environment or people. EPUs generally respond to incidents involving chemical spills, oil leaks, and contaminated water, preventing damage to local ecosystems or infrastructure.
EPUs are typically mobilised in response to hazardous material incidents, large-scale flooding, and industrial spills. The EPUs carry specialist equipment to contain, neutralise, and clean up pollutants, ensuring that environmental damage is minimised. They also provide resources for securing drainage systems and preventing contaminants from entering water.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) operates multiple EPUs, most of which are module-based and transported via Prime Mover (PM), yet some of which may be of a different style or dedicated appliance. EPUs are typically ‘dual-crewed’ by a station’s pump crew. EPUs are automatically deployed to any Level 3 hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) incident as well as any nuclear incidents, asides from that they may be requested by Operations Control (OC) or the Incident Commander (IC).
Specification
Spill Containment
Chemical absorption mats, socks, and boom systems to prevent contaminants from spreading. Includes specialist clay putty for sealing leaks in ruptured containers or tankers as well as spill containment sets, including absorbent granules and pads, to control hazardous material spills.
Specialist Equipment
Chemical protection suits for handling potentially hazardous substances, hazardous material vacuums to safely collect and remove contaminants. A peristaltic pump capable of handling semi-solid materials such as sewage, silage, or bulk grain