What does the term "containment" mean in the context of hazmat response?

In the context of hazmat response, the term "containment" specifically refers to the process of preventing the spread of hazardous materials. This involves actions taken to restrict the mobility of a hazardous substance to its original location, thereby reducing the risk of exposure to people, the environment, and property.

Containment can include various methods such as using barriers, dikes, or absorbent materials to stop a chemical spill from flowing or seeping into wider areas. The primary goal is to limit the impact of the hazardous material until further response actions, such as cleanup, can be undertaken safely. This is crucial in minimizing the potential harm that hazardous materials can pose during an incident.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the meaning of containment. Notifying emergency services is the initial step in managing a hazmat situation but does not involve physically managing the materials. Cleaning up hazardous materials refers to the removal and decontamination process rather than containment itself. Disposing of hazardous waste deals with the final handling of materials after they have been contained and cleaned up, which is a separate phase in the response process.