In a hazardous material context, which of the following is NOT a step in initial emergency response?

In the context of hazardous material emergencies, initial emergency response steps are generally focused on assessing the situation, ensuring safety, and taking appropriate actions to control and contain the hazard. Safety is always the foremost priority, as responders need to protect themselves and the public. Control involves taking measures to mitigate the hazard and prevent it from causing further harm. Notification is critical as it ensures that local authorities and emergency services are informed and can respond appropriately.

Evacuation, while a critical component of managing a hazardous material incident, is typically not categorized as an initial response action. Instead, it is a subsequent action that may be taken based on the assessment of the situation and the potential risk to the public and responders. Initial steps focus on safeguarding responders, securing the area, and coordinating with emergency services before determining whether evacuation is necessary. Therefore, evacuation does not fall under the immediate steps taken during the initial response phase.