What procedure should be followed when dealing with hazardous materials during an incident?

Informed decision-making is essential when dealing with hazardous materials during an incident because it allows responders to assess the situation fully, evaluate potential risks, and implement appropriate response strategies. This process involves gathering relevant data about the hazardous materials involved, understanding their properties, and considering the potential impact on public safety, the environment, and responders.

By making informed decisions, responders can prioritize safety measures, such as what protective gear to use, whether to evacuate certain areas, or if containment measures are necessary. This approach helps in establishing a clear understanding of the situation at hand and facilitates effective communication among all parties involved in the response.

The other procedures mentioned, while potentially relevant under certain circumstances, do not encompass the breadth of considerations necessary to effectively manage hazardous material incidents. Complete containment may be desirable, but it isn't always achievable or appropriate in every scenario. Immediate evacuation can be critical in life-threatening situations, but thought must be given to the impacts of evacuation and whether it's necessary. Controlled response can be a part of the overall strategy, yet it relies heavily on informed decision-making to determine what that controlled response should actually entail. Therefore, informed decision-making serves as the foundational process guiding all other actions during a hazardous materials incident.