Who should follow the guidelines provided by the Emergency Response Guidebook?

The guidelines provided by the Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) are designed primarily for first responders who encounter hazardous materials incidents. This crucial resource assists these individuals in assessing situations quickly and ensuring that appropriate response actions are taken to mitigate risks to health and safety.

First responders are trained to understand the significance of these guidelines in managing hazardous material spills, leaks, or other emergencies, utilizing the ERG to identify substances, understand their properties, and determine the best practices for containment or evacuation. Their ability to access and employ this information effectively can significantly impact the outcome of an incident, protecting not only their safety but also that of the public and the environment.

While the vehicle driver, passengers in the vehicle, and the shipping company have important roles concerning hazardous materials, they are not the primary audience for the ERG. The ERG is a tool primarily aimed at first responders who are equipped to react and manage such emergencies when they arise.