Which statement about runoff during emergency decontamination is correct?

The statement that an effort should be made to divert runoff from drains, streams, or ponds is fundamentally correct because it emphasizes the importance of environmental protection during emergency decontamination procedures. In situations involving hazardous materials, runoff can contain contaminants that pose significant risks to local waterways and ecosystems.

Diverting runoff helps prevent the spread of hazardous substances into the environment, which could lead to pollution of water sources, harm to wildlife, and potential health risks to the community. Proper management of runoff is a critical component of spill response plans, ensuring that contaminants are contained and treated appropriately rather than allowed to flow into natural bodies of water.

In contrast, the other statements downplay the significance of runoff management—asserting that runoff can be treated as regular waste or dismissing it as not being a concern detracts from adherence to environmental safety protocols. Furthermore, the idea that all runoff can be contained easily is misleading, as containment measures can vary depending on the situation and the type of hazardous materials involved.