What is the first step in the HAZMAT response process?

The first step in the HAZMAT response process is to identify the hazardous material involved. This initial step is crucial because it informs responders about the specific risks associated with the substance, enabling them to take appropriate safety measures and determine the proper response protocol. Correct identification of the material helps assess its properties, such as toxicity, flammability, and reactivity, which are vital for planning subsequent actions like containment, mitigation, and evacuation.

When responders know what they are dealing with, they can employ the appropriate protective equipment and response strategies tailored to the material's unique characteristics. This foundational knowledge is essential because it effectively dictates every subsequent step in the response process, ensuring that responders manage the situation efficiently and safely.