What should responders prioritize when arriving at a hazmat scene?

When responders arrive at a hazmat scene, their primary focus must be on their own safety and health. This is crucial because if responders do not protect themselves, they can become victims of the hazardous materials they are trying to manage, which would hinder overall response efforts and put others in jeopardy. Proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential in ensuring that responders do not inhale toxic fumes or come into direct contact with harmful substances.

This prioritization of responder safety takes precedence over other considerations because only when responders are safe can they effectively assess the situation, implement safety measures, and initiate actions to mitigate the hazard. Without this foundational step, all subsequent operations—including community safety, environmental protection, and cleanup efforts—are compromised. It forms the basis for a successful and methodical response to the incident.