What is an “incidental release” of hazardous materials?

An “incidental release” of hazardous materials refers to a release that poses minimal risk to health and the environment. This type of release typically involves small quantities of hazardous substances that, while technically a release, do not lead to significant hazards or require extensive emergency response measures. Incidental releases are often manageable with readily available safety procedures and do not necessitate the same level of response as more serious incidents.

Understanding this concept is crucial in the context of hazardous materials transportation and handling, as it underscores the importance of evaluating the risk associated with any release, regardless of its nature or scale. In practice, knowing that some releases can be classified as incidental allows organizations to focus their resources and responses more effectively, reserving emergency procedures for more serious incidents.