Which of the following is true regarding Emergency Response Guidebook chemicals?

The correct answer indicates that Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) chemicals can be volatile and toxic. This is significant because the ERG is designed to provide guidance for first responders during the initial phase of a hazardous materials incident involving these chemicals. Many substances listed in the ERG can pose serious health risks, including toxicity and volatility, which can lead to harmful exposure if mishandled.

Understanding the nature of these chemicals is crucial for effective emergency response. Responders must be aware that volatile substances can easily evaporate, forming harmful vapors that may be flammable or toxic when inhaled. This necessitates specific precautions, such as wearing appropriate personal protective equipment and establishing safety zones.

Considering the other options, the assertion that these chemicals are exclusively non-toxic is inaccurate as the ERG includes a wide range of substances, many of which are indeed hazardous. The statement that they are mostly solid materials does not reflect the variety of forms these chemicals can take, as they can be gases, liquids, or solids. Lastly, stating that they do not require any specific handling precautions disregards the critical nature of safety protocols necessary when dealing with hazardous materials, which are paramount to ensuring responder safety and public protection.