Which agency is primarily responsible for coordinating responses to large-scale hazardous material incidents?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is primarily responsible for coordinating responses to large-scale hazardous material incidents. This agency plays a crucial role in disaster response and recovery, including incidents involving hazardous substances. FEMA's functions include providing federal assistance, resources, and coordination among various agencies, state and local governments, and other organizations during emergencies. Its expertise in emergency management makes it an essential entity in handling the complexities and logistics of hazardous material incidents.

While other agencies also participate in environmental and public health responses—such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) focusing on environmental protection and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) overseeing workplace safety, including hazardous materials—the overarching coordination of emergency responses during large-scale incidents falls primarily under FEMA’s jurisdiction. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) focuses on public health implications but does not coordinate disaster responses in the same capacity as FEMA.