What is the primary purpose of the Emergency Response Guidebook?

The primary purpose of the Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) is to assist first responders at hazardous materials incidents by providing essential procedures and guidelines. The ERG is a vital resource during emergency situations, as it helps responders identify the material involved, understand the associated hazards, and follow recommended actions to ensure safety and effective response.

The guidebook contains critical information, including safety recommendations and emergency response measures specifically tailored to various hazardous substances. By facilitating a structured response to incidents, the ERG plays an essential role in protecting both emergency responders and the public while minimizing the risk of exposure to hazardous materials.

The other options, while they touch on aspects related to hazardous materials, do not encapsulate the overarching goal of the ERG. Antidotes may be specifically addressed in other resources, classifying hazardous materials by UN number is a distinct function that aids in recognition but does not directly provide response procedures, and informing the public about chemical safety falls outside the primary focus of the guidebook. Therefore, option B accurately captures the main function of the Emergency Response Guidebook.