In a hazardous materials response plan, what does "containment" refer to?

Containment in a hazardous materials response plan specifically refers to the process of capturing and securing hazardous materials to prevent further release into the environment. This is a critical aspect of managing hazardous materials incidents, as it aims to limit the spread of contaminants, thereby protecting both people and the environment. By implementing proper containment strategies, responders can mitigate the risk of exposure and contamination, allowing for safe cleanup and remediation efforts to proceed.

The focus on containment emphasizes the importance of having the right tools, materials, and methodologies to successfully isolate hazardous substances during an incident. This ensures that the threat is effectively managed until appropriate actions can be taken to either remove or neutralize the materials involved.