Why is it important to understand the properties of hazardous materials?

Understanding the properties of hazardous materials is crucial for ensuring physical safety and managing risks effectively during incidents that involve these substances. Knowledge of their chemical and physical properties helps emergency responders determine appropriate safety measures, identify potential hazards, and select the right personal protective equipment. For instance, knowing whether a material is flammable, corrosive, or toxic allows personnel to devise strategies for containment, mitigation, and safe handling in an emergency situation. This understanding is also vital for assessing the potential environmental impact and protecting public health.

Other factors, such as regulatory compliance, disposal pricing, and marketing, are important in their contexts, but they do not directly address the immediate need to ensure safety and manage risks during a hazardous materials incident. The emphasis on physical safety highlights the foremost priority in hazardous materials operations.