What is the purpose of using absorbents in haz-mat response?

The purpose of using absorbents in haz-mat response is to soak up and contain liquid spills, thereby preventing environmental contamination. Absorbents are specially designed materials that can effectively absorb liquids, which is crucial during a hazardous materials incident where spills can lead to significant environmental and public health risks. By containing the spill, absorbents help to minimize the spread of hazardous substances into soil, waterways, and surrounding areas, allowing responders to manage the situation more safely and effectively.

In addition, while barriers and visibility aids are important in hazardous materials response, they serve different functions. Barriers are typically used to protect the public from exposure to hazardous materials, while absorbents specifically target the management of liquid leaks and spills. Therefore, option B is the most accurate choice regarding the specific role of absorbents in haz-mat operations.