What is an inspector's responsibility if the unknown material is found to have hazardous properties?

An inspector's responsibility when encountering an unknown material with hazardous properties is to ensure immediate safety measures are implemented. This priority is crucial because hazardous materials can pose significant risks to human health and the environment. The inspector must act swiftly to assess the situation, identify potential dangers, and take appropriate actions to protect individuals and property from exposure or harm.

Implementing immediate safety measures may include evacuating individuals from the area, securing the site to prevent access, and notifying appropriate emergency response teams or hazardous materials specialists who can safely manage the situation.

The focus on safety reflects established protocols for handling hazardous materials, which prioritize immediate action to mitigate risks before any further investigation or management of the material can take place.