Iterate on hazardous material protocol

As outdoor experimentation scales from aerosol microphysics in Phase 1 to aerosol evolution and transport in Phase 2, the risks and mitigation strategies for hazardous material handling necessarily evolve. This work expands on previously established hazardous material handling protocols to match the scale of material needed for an aerosol evolution and transport experiment. Ensuring rigorous, evidence-based safety protocols are kept current is essential for conducting this research responsibly and for maintaining public confidence in the research program. This research furthers understanding of the Engineering Uncertainties.

This activity involves adapting the aerosol experiment hazardous materials safety protocols across the range of scales anticipated for an aerosol evolution and transport experiment. The work includes the following:

1. Hazard characterization: characterizing hazards associated with handling, transport, and release of SO₂ at different scales.
2. Ground operations procedures: establishing safe handling procedures for ground operations, including storage, loading, transport, and pre-flight preparation.
3. Emergency response: developing emergency response procedures for accidental releases or exposure scenarios.
4. Risk analysis: conducting hazard assessments and risk analyses specific to the aircraft-based injection methodology.
5. Regulatory compliance: ensuring protocols comply with applicable occupational safety, environmental protection, and aviation regulations.

Safety protocols must be developed in consultation with occupational safety experts, environmental health specialists, and regulatory agencies. The scope includes iterative refinement as experience accumulates.