The actions and tactics adopted should be based on the scale and likely impact of the incident, which will be influenced by the quantity. It is important that responders can rapidly and accurately estimate or determine the quantity of hazardous materials involved.
The size of container involved is a key piece of information in determining the quantity, but responders should also assess the quantity that is uncontrolled, such as the size of the spill, not just the size of container. Material remaining in the container will pose less of a risk in most cases.