In case of an emergency, what should be the first action taken with hazardous materials?

In an emergency involving hazardous materials, the first action should be to isolate the area and notify authorities. This is crucial because it prevents further exposure to individuals in the vicinity and contains the situation to a manageable area. Isolating the area helps ensure that no additional personnel enter a potentially dangerous zone where they could be harmed by exposure to hazardous substances.

Notifying authorities initiates a rapid response from emergency services that have the training and resources to effectively manage the situation. These professionals are equipped to assess the hazards, implement safety measures, and carry out containment, cleanup, and medical response as necessary.

Other options like evacuating personnel, attempting to contain the spill, or initiating cleanup procedures may seem important but are secondary to ensuring that the area is secured and that the appropriate authorities are informed. Evacuating personnel could lead to chaos if done without proper coordination, while attempting to contain the spill or begin cleanup carries significant risk unless trained professionals are involved, as improper handling could exacerbate the situation.