What must facilities do under SARA 304 if there is a release of an EHS?

Under the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA) Title III, specifically section 304, facilities that experience a release of an Extremely Hazardous Substance (EHS) are required to notify specific authorities. This includes the State Emergency Response Commission (SERC) and the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC). The intent behind this requirement is to ensure that local and state authorities are informed of the incident so they can take necessary actions to protect public health and the environment.

Timely notification allows emergency responders to take appropriate precautions, assess risks, develop response strategies, and communicate with the public more effectively about any potential dangers. Ensuring that SERC and LEPC are informed is crucial for coordination during any emergency response efforts. This helps facilitate community preparedness and ensures that all relevant stakeholders are involved in addressing and mitigating the impact of the release.

The other options, while important aspects of safety and preparedness in industrial settings, do not directly address the immediate requirements following a reportable release under SARA 304.