Abstract: A computer-implemented preferred materials selector tool comprises a digital processor, a data storage medium accessible by the digital processor, and a data base stored in the data storage medium having a plurality of entries for materials. At least some of the data base entries include identification of the physical character of the material, identification of a procedure in which the material is operable, and a hazard/environmental assessment. The computer-implemented tool further includes a set of instructions executable by the digital processor for controllably selecting a material from the data base responsive to a comparison with the physical character of the material, the procedure identification, or the hazard/environmental assessment.