What action should be taken if a responder's protective gear is found to be damaged?

Choosing to replace the protective gear immediately when damage is discovered is crucial for ensuring the safety of responders in hazardous material situations. Damaged protective gear can compromise the integrity of the equipment, leading to potential exposure to harmful substances during response operations. The immediate replacement ensures that responders are equipped with reliable and effective protection, helping to mitigate the risks associated with hazardous materials.

While notifying a supervisor, documenting the damage, or continuing to use the gear are actions that could be considered in certain contexts, they do not prioritize responder safety in the same way that immediate replacement does. The primary goal in hazardous material response is to minimize risk, and ensuring that all personnel are wearing fully functional protective equipment is a key aspect of this responsibility.