In hazardous material incidents, what is a “cold zone”?

A "cold zone" refers to an area that is considered safe and free of hazards during a hazardous material incident. This zone is typically where command and support personnel, such as medical teams and logistics staff, operate in order to coordinate responses without risking exposure to hazardous materials. The cold zone serves as a staging area for resources and personnel while ensuring they remain protected from the dangers of the hazardous materials in the incident vicinity.

Understanding the importance of the cold zone is crucial for effective incident management. This area allows for a clear separation between the more dangerous zones, such as the hot zone (which is directly contaminated) and the warm zone (which serves as a transition area). By establishing a cold zone, responders can ensure that command and support activities can proceed safely, thus enhancing overall response effectiveness and safety.