Define "risk assessment" as it pertains to haz-mat incidents.

Risk assessment in the context of hazardous materials incidents refers to the comprehensive process of evaluating both the likelihood of a hazard occurring and the potential consequences should that hazard manifest. This involves analyzing various factors such as the nature of the hazardous material, environmental conditions, and the potential impact on human health and safety, as well as the environment.

Effective risk assessment helps in making informed decisions about how to manage a haz-mat situation, including identifying necessary precautions and emergency responses. Understanding the likelihood and potential outcomes allows haz-mat responders to prioritize their actions and resources effectively to mitigate risks.

While identifying potential hazards is an important component of risk assessment, it is not the entire picture. Evacuation planning and the selection of personal protective equipment are also critical in a haz-mat response, but they come after the risk assessment has been completed, as those decisions are informed by the findings of the assessment itself. Therefore, the process of evaluating both the likelihood of occurrence and the consequences is essential and forms the basis of an effective response strategy.