What is "secondary containment"?

Secondary containment refers to structures or systems specifically designed to capture and contain spills or leaks from primary containers, ensuring that hazardous materials do not escape into the environment. This is crucial in preventing contamination of soil, water, and air, which can occur if substances leak from their primary storage or handling containers. By utilizing secondary containment, facilities enhance their ability to manage risk associated with hazardous materials, thereby protecting both public health and the environment.

The concept is rooted in proactive safety measures where secondary containment serves as a backup to the primary containment, such as tanks or drums that hold hazardous substances. This additional layer of protection is essential in compliance with various environmental regulations and best practices in hazardous materials management.

The other options focus on specific aspects of hazardous material handling, such as dealing only with flammable materials, safety measures for personnel, or cleanup processes. These do not encompass the broader, crucial function of secondary containment, which is dedicated solely to preventing spills from impacting the surrounding area.