What should you do if a hazmat spill occurs during transport?

• A. Continue driving to the nearest exit
• B. Do nothing until arriving at destination
• C. Notify shipper only after arrival
• D. Stop safely if possible, isolate the area, turn off ignition sources, and notify authorities; consult the ERG for immediate actions

Answer: (D)

When a hazmat spill happens, the priority is to protect yourself and others and prevent the release from getting worse. If you can do so safely, stop the vehicle in a safe location and establish a perimeter to isolate the spill area, so bystanders aren’t exposed and the contaminated zone doesn’t spread. Turn off all ignition sources to reduce the risk of fire or explosion if the material is flammable or creates flammable vapors. Notify authorities and the shipper right away so trained responders can take over with the proper equipment and procedures. Then consult the Emergency Response Guidebook for the specific immediate actions for the material involved—this helps you identify the right PPE, containment steps, evacuation distances, and any other material-specific instructions. These actions minimize exposure, limit spread, and connect you with responders who can manage the incident safely.