What is meant by 'active containment'?

'Active containment' refers to a system designed to automatically manage risks. This concept involves proactive measures that utilize technology and automated processes to prevent or mitigate incidents without requiring constant human intervention. In active containment systems, sensors and automated controls are employed to monitor conditions and respond immediately to potential threats, thereby improving safety and efficiency in managing hazardous situations.

The effectiveness of active containment lies in its ability to react quickly and adapt to changing circumstances. This minimizes the response time in emergencies and often reduces the impact of risk factors before they escalate. Such systems are integral in environments where safety and hazardous risk management are crucial, such as chemical plants, waste disposal sites, and other industries dealing with potentially dangerous materials.

Other options presented do not align with the definition of active containment. Methods requiring human intervention rely heavily on manual processes, temporary measures lack the sustained functionality of automated systems, and passive protection methods do not respond actively to risks but instead act as static barriers or shields. Therefore, the designation of active containment as a system designed to automatically manage risks solely reflects its inherent capabilities and operational focus.