What is the main focus during a hazardous material incident assessment?

The primary focus during a hazardous material incident assessment is to evaluate risks to human health and safety. This is essential because the immediate goal is to protect lives, whether they are those of first responders, emergency personnel, or civilians in the vicinity of the incident. Understanding the potential health risks associated with exposure to hazardous materials enables responders to implement appropriate safety measures, evacuate affected areas, and provide medical assistance where needed.

Prioritizing health and safety ensures that all further actions taken, including containment, cleanup, and recovery efforts, are conducted with the well-being of people in mind. While assessing environmental damage and economic impacts may be relevant in a comprehensive incident review, they do not take precedence over the immediate need to ensure safety. The assessment must always begin with human life as the priority to effectively manage the situation.