Which resource provides information on initial evacuation distances for hazardous materials incidents?

The Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) is the correct resource for obtaining information on initial evacuation distances for hazardous materials incidents. The ERG is specifically designed to assist emergency responders during the initial phases of an incident involving hazardous materials. It provides comprehensive information on the properties of hazardous materials, including evacuation distances, to ensure the safety of responders and the public.

The ERG includes specific tables that outline evacuation distances based on the type of material involved and its hazard class. This makes it an essential tool for first responders to quickly assess situations and take appropriate action, including determining how far people should be evacuated from the danger area to protect them from potential exposure.

Other options may provide useful information about hazardous materials; however, they do not focus specifically on evacuation distances in the same way the ERG does. The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and the Chemical Safety Data Sheet (CSDS) provide detailed information about the properties, handling, and risks of chemical substances but typically do not specify evacuation distances. The Hazardous Materials Inventory serves as a record of hazardous materials present at a facility but does not provide real-time evacuation guidance for incidents. Thus, the ERG remains the primary reference for immediate evacuation distances during hazardous materials emergencies.