What are emergency isolation zones used for?

Emergency isolation zones are established to protect the public from exposure to hazardous materials during incidents. These zones create a buffer area around the site of a hazardous materials release or incident, limiting access to only authorized personnel and emergency responders. The primary goal is to prevent individuals who are not trained or equipped to handle hazardous situations from entering an area where they could be exposed to dangerous chemicals, radiation, or other harmful substances.

By effectively securing and isolating the affected area, emergency responders can focus on managing the incident without risking further exposure to bystanders and the general population. The establishment of these zones is a critical component of the overall incident management strategy, ensuring that safety is prioritized during hazmat responses.