What does an LEPC do?

Under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA), Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPCs) must develop an emergency response plan, review the plan at least annually, and provide information about chemicals in the community to citizens. Plans are developed by LEPCs with stakeholder participation.

What benefits are there to being actively involved in the LEPC?

If you have an active LEPC, you may be able to get funds for training, planning, exercises and equipment. The LEPC serves as a forum to help involve citizens in the discussion on emergency planning and response. Participate in exercises and drills to improve community’s preparedness.

What was the incident that resulted in the development of the local emergency planning committees?

In the wake of the Bhopal disaster in India in the 1980’s Congress passed the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA), also known as Title III of the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA), in 1986.

What is a local emergency response plan?

Local Emergency Planning Committes are designed to help communities prepare for and respond to emergencies involving hazardous substances. Every community in the United States must be part of a comprehensive plan.

Is the backbone of emergency management?

With over 40 years of usage, ICS is considered a best practice and is used worldwide. It is the backbone of the National Incident Management System (NIMS).

What is also known as the Right-to-Know Act?

The U.S. Emergency Planning and Community Right-To-Know Act (EPCRA) also known as the Community Right-To-Know Act or SARA, Title III provides for the collection and public release of information about the presence and release of hazardous or toxic chemicals in the nation’s communities.

What does SARA Tier II mean?

Tier II (SARA 312) is under section 312 of EPCRA and it is a mandatory report of hazardous and toxic substances that are housed at your facility at any given point during the reporting year. These substances must maintain an SDS under OSHA’s hazard communication standard.

What is SARA Title III Section 313?

Section 313, commonly referred to as the Toxic Chemical Release Inventory or TRI, requires certain facilities to annually report toxic chemical releases and waste management activities to the U.S. EPA and the state by July 1.

What is the first priority in emergency management operations?

When an emergency occurs, the first priority is always life safety. The second priority is the stabilization of the incident. There are many actions that can be taken to stabilize an incident and minimize potential damage. First aid and CPR by trained employees can save lives.