What action must be taken if a hazardous material is found leaking?

When a hazardous material is found leaking, sealing the area and informing authorities is the most critical action to take. This response ensures that the incident is managed safely and effectively by qualified personnel. By restricting access to the area, you help prevent exposure to hazardous substances for yourself and others. Informing authorities enables trained responders to evaluate the situation and take appropriate measures to mitigate any risks associated with the leak.

Choosing to ignore the leak unless it's severe puts both individuals and the environment at unnecessary risk, as hazardous materials can cause harm even in small quantities. Attempting to manually contain the leak could be extremely dangerous without the proper protective equipment or training, as it may expose individuals to toxic substances or lead to further spills. Meanwhile, merely notifying colleagues without taking action to secure the area or contact authorities does not adequately address the situation, which could lead to a larger incident or accident. Thus, the most responsible and safe action is to seal off the area and inform appropriate authorities for a proper response.