According to the emergency response guidebook, how is a large spill defined?

The definition of a large spill, according to the Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG), is established as any release of a hazardous material that exceeds 35 gallons. This standard is utilized in emergency response situations to help firefighters and responders determine the appropriate level of response and resources needed.

When a spill exceeds this threshold, it typically requires specialized equipment, additional personnel, and potentially, coordination with other agencies to properly manage and mitigate the situation. Identifying the volume of the spill early on is critical for ensuring the safety of the responders and the surrounding community, guiding decisions related to containment, evacuation, and clean-up efforts.

Being aware of this definition assists firefighters in assessing the incident and implementing the proper response measures based on the scale of the hazardous material leak.