What must an emergency response team have available before addressing a spill?

Having safety data sheets (SDS) available is essential for an emergency response team before addressing a spill. These sheets provide crucial information regarding the chemical properties, hazards, and necessary precautions related to the substance involved in the spill. They outline proper handling techniques, exposure controls, and first aid measures, which are vital for ensuring the safety of responders and the effectiveness of the response.

Knowing the details contained in the safety data sheets allows responders to assess the risks associated with the spill accurately and to implement appropriate measures to mitigate those risks. This knowledge is critical for protecting not only the health and safety of the team members but also for preventing environmental contamination and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

While other items such as fire extinguishers might be important in certain scenarios, and communication tools like walkie-talkies can enhance coordination during emergencies, having the relevant safety data sheets is fundamental and directly tied to the safety and effectiveness of the response to a spill.