A hazardous substance release requires emergency response if:
- Employees must be evacuated from the area.
- The response comes from outside the immediate release area.
- The release can cause conditions that are immediately dangerous to life and health.
- The release poses a serious threat of fire or explosion.
- The release requires immediate attention because of imminent danger.
- The release may cause high levels of exposure to toxic substances.
- There is uncertainty that the personnel in the work area can handle the severity of the hazard with the available personal protective equipment.
- The situation is unclear or data is lacking on important factors.