What is the term for the area immediately surrounding a hazardous material incident which extends far enough to protect personnel outside the zone from contamination?

The term that describes the area immediately surrounding a hazardous material incident, extending far enough to protect personnel outside the zone from contamination, is known as the Warm Zone. This zone serves as a buffer between the Hot Zone (where contamination is present and safety risks are highest) and the Cold Zone (where personnel and equipment are safe from contamination).

In the Warm Zone, personnel can conduct decontamination and monitoring procedures while still being exposed to some potential hazards, but at a significantly reduced risk compared to the Hot Zone. This setting is crucial for ensuring that first responders and support personnel maintain safety while still being able to operate effectively in the vicinity of the hazardous materials incident.