FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Dwayne Mundy, LEPC staff, (352) 955-2200 x108

RISK MANAGEMENT PROGRAM TO INCREASE CHEMICAL SAFETY

In less than three months, an estimated 66,000 facilities around the country will be providing the U.S. EPA information about toxic substances used in their operations that could potentially harm surrounding communities. The reason for this reporting is to encourage facilities to reduce the risks at their facilities and to prevent the release of these hazardous substances.

The new EPA program requires companies to disclose risk management plans that include information concerning the impact of an accidental release of toxic gas into surrounding communities, plant accident history and detailed accident prevention and emergency response activities. Facilities must submit these plans to the U.S. EPA by June 21, 1999. A few months later, information will be available to the public from a variety of sources, including the EPA Internet site.

Ammonia, chlorine and propane are common, but potentially dangerous, chemicals that are included in this program. Private and public facilities likely to be reporting include: propane dealers, refrigeration facilities, chemical plants, fertilizer operations, water treatment and waste water treatment facilities.

Many facilities are working to share accident prevention information with their neighbors before it is reported to the EPA. The North Central Florida Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) is assisting with providing this important information to our communities. LEPC Chairman John Hudson stated, "The public and facilities both benefit from a local dialogue being established on risk issues." Mr. Hudson added, "Additional information can be obtained by calling LEPC senior planner Dwayne Mundy at (352) 955-2200 ext. 108."