What distinguishes primary containment from secondary containment?

Primary containment refers to the first level of containment that directly holds the hazardous material, such as a tank or container that stores chemicals. Its primary function is to keep the material securely within its confines and to prevent leakage or spillage under normal operating conditions.

Secondary containment, on the other hand, is designed to prevent any leaked material from escaping into the environment. It acts as a backup system that holds any potential spills that may occur from the primary containment. This could be a basin, wall, or other protective structures designed to contain liquids in the event of a failure or leak in the primary container.

The distinction lies in their functions: primary containment directly holds the hazardous material, while secondary containment acts as a safeguard to contain any leaks or spills that may occur from the primary system. This separation of roles is crucial for effective hazardous material management, ensuring both the integrity of the material storage and the protection of the surrounding environment.