During a chemical spill, which action should be taken first?

Establishing a safe perimeter is the crucial first step during a chemical spill. This action serves as a protective measure to ensure the safety of both responders and the surrounding public. By establishing a perimeter, first responders prevent unauthorized personnel from entering the hazardous area, which could expose them to potential harm from toxic fumes, explosions, or other dangers associated with the spilled substance.

Creating a safe zone allows for a controlled environment where emergency personnel can assess the situation without the added risk of bystanders complicating the response efforts. It also provides an area for staging additional resources and ensuring that the scene is secure before any cleanup or remediation efforts begin.

Once the perimeter is established, other important actions can follow, such as notifying local authorities to provide them with necessary information, identifying the spilled chemical for proper response, and then starting cleanup procedures once it is safe and appropriate to do so. However, executing these actions without first ensuring safety could lead to increased risks and complications during the emergency response.