In what situation must a facility notify the SERC and LEPC?

The correct situation requiring a facility to notify the State Emergency Response Commission (SERC) and the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) is when there is a release of an Extremely Hazardous Substance (EHS) at or exceeding the reportable quantity. This requirement is part of the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA), which aims to ensure public safety and environment protection. When an EHS is released above the specified limit, it poses a potential risk to health and safety, making prompt notification essential for emergency response planning and community awareness.

By alerting the SERC and LEPC, the facility contributes to the coordinated effort to manage hazardous substances safely within the community, allowing local authorities to take necessary precautions to protect the public and the environment. This protocol ensures that the relevant agencies are prepared to respond appropriately in the event of an incident, reducing risks associated with hazardous materials.

While routine inspections, facility relocation, and the introduction of new chemicals to the inventory may be important operational aspects, they do not trigger the mandatory reporting requirement that arises from the release of an EHS at or above the reportable quantity.