Which section of the ERG would provide information on establishing the initial isolation distance for highlighted chemicals?

The Protective Action Distances section of the Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) is the correct source for information on establishing the initial isolation distance for hazardous materials. This section is specifically designed to provide responders with guidance on the distances that should be maintained from a hazardous material incident to protect the public and emergency responders from potential exposure.

In this section, responders will find detailed information about the distances applicable to various chemicals based on their specific properties and the nature of the incident. It typically includes recommendations for evacuation distances and protective actions, which are critical for minimizing health risks during a hazardous materials response.

Other sections of the ERG do offer valuable information—such as the Potential Hazards section, which outlines the risks associated with specific substances, and the Public Safety section, which focuses on overall safety measures during an incident. However, these do not provide the specific isolation distances needed for the immediate response to a hazardous materials situation. The Emergency Response section contains procedural guidelines but does not specifically address the distances necessary for isolation. Thus, the Protective Action Distances section is the most relevant resource for establishing initial isolation distances.