What does "hot zone" refer to at a hazardous material incident?

The term "hot zone" specifically refers to the area immediately surrounding a hazardous material spill or release. This zone is characterized by the highest levels of contamination and poses a significant risk to safety. In the hot zone, emergency responders must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) while conducting operations to handle the hazardous materials safely or to mitigate the incident. The delineation of this zone is critical for ensuring the safety of personnel, as it helps to limit exposure to toxic substances and allows for more controlled and effective response measures.

In contrast, the areas with less contamination or those designated for other purposes, like staging equipment or providing medical attention, are referred to as the "warm zone" and "cold zone," respectively. The warm zone serves as a transition area where decontamination occurs and personnel can take off or change PPE, while the cold zone is considered safe for support operations and medical treatment.