What is the name given to the steps that ensure the safety of emergency responders and the public during hazardous material incidents?

The term used to describe the steps taken to ensure the safety of emergency responders and the public during hazardous material incidents is "protective actions." Protective actions are specific measures implemented to mitigate risks and safeguard individuals from exposure to hazardous materials. These actions can include evacuation, shelter-in-place orders, the establishment of safety zones, and decontamination procedures, all aimed at minimizing harm to both responders and the surrounding community.

The focus of protective actions is on immediate responses to incidents to maintain safety, which is essential in the management of hazardous materials. These actions are often based on risk assessments conducted during emergencies to determine the best course of action for safety.

In contrast, preventive measures refer more broadly to strategies employed before an incident occurs to avoid accidents or spills, safety protocols encompass a wider range of procedures and guidelines to follow during various emergencies, and containment procedures deal specifically with controlling and confining the hazardous material itself following an incident. While all these terms relate to safety in hazardous scenarios, "protective actions" explicitly emphasizes responses to ensure immediate safety during such incidents.