Implementation Guidance for Risk Management

The U.S. EPA in March released its "Risk Management Program Guidance for Implementing Agencies." The document provides guidance to states and local governments on developing accidental release prevention programs under Section 112 of the Clean Air Act. It outlines a flexible program that encourages state or local governments to consider a variety of approaches in adopting an agenda that meets their needs and builds upon existing health/safety programs.

The guidance describes how implementing agencies can develop effective Section 112 programs by undertaking prescribed activities. They include outreach, technical assistance, training, reviewing of risk management plans (RMP) and their audits--as well as inspection of facility risk-management programs.

The regulations became final on June 20, 1996. They require covered facilities to adopt a risk-management program and submit a RMP. The RMP should outline chemical and process hazards and accident prevention activities undertaken.

Copies of the guidance are available on the Internet at: http://www.epa.gov/swercepp/whatnew.html. Or request document EPA-550-R-98-002 from NCEPI. Tel: 800.490.9198.