Final answer:
When addressing an industrial spill, as a member of the HMRU, your main duties would be to assess the situation, contain the spill, and clean it up safely. Specialized equipment such as PPE, spill containment materials, and tools like vacuum cleaners may be required.
Step-by-step explanation:
As a member of the Hazardous Material Response Unit (HMRU), your main duties when addressing an industrial spill at a local manufacturing plant would be to assess the situation, contain the spill to prevent further contamination, and clean up the spilled substance safely. Since the team is unaware of the actual substance, it is important to take precautionary measures and treat it as a hazardous material until proven otherwise.
To complete your assignment, you would require specialized equipment such as personal protective equipment (PPE) including chemical-resistant suits, gloves, and eyewear to protect yourself from potential hazards. Additionally, you may need spill containment materials like absorbents, booms, and barriers to prevent the spread of the spill. Tools like vacuum cleaners, pumps, and decontamination kits may also be necessary depending on the nature of the spill.