What is the primary role of a hazardous materials team during an incident?

The primary role of a hazardous materials team during an incident is to assess, control, contain, and mitigate hazardous materials emergencies. This encompasses a comprehensive approach to dealing with dangerous substances that may pose risks to health and safety. When hazardous materials are involved, the team must first assess the situation to understand what materials are present and the potential risks they pose.

Following assessment, the team takes control of the incident, ensuring that the situation remains as safe as possible for both the responders and the public. The containment process involves preventing the spread of the hazardous material, which can include creating barriers or utilizing specialized equipment. Finally, mitigation involves implementing strategies to eliminate or reduce the harmful effects of the hazardous materials, effectively resolving the incident and ensuring the safety of the area.

While other options may touch on important aspects of emergency response, such as evacuation and medical assistance, those tasks are more peripheral to the specific mission of a hazardous materials team. Their focused expertise and training are centered on addressing the complexities and dangers associated with hazardous materials, making the team's role pivotal in managing such incidents effectively.