Extremely Hazardous Substances (EHS) refer to chemicals or hazardous materials that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) identifies based on their potential hazards or toxicity. These substances are listed under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986 (EPCRA). The list of EHS is updated periodically to reflect new information about chemical safety and risks.
The term Extremely Hazardous Substances is used primarily in environmental law and public safety regulations. It plays a crucial role in emergency planning and community awareness regarding chemical hazards. Legal professionals may encounter EHS in cases related to environmental compliance, workplace safety, and community health. Individuals and businesses can utilize legal forms to report the presence of these substances or to comply with safety regulations.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
For instance, a chemical manufacturing plant that uses a substance classified as EHS must develop an emergency response plan to manage potential spills or accidents. This plan would include notifying local authorities and the community about the risks involved.
(Hypothetical example) A school located near a facility that stores EHS must ensure that it has proper emergency protocols in place in case of a chemical release.
The primary statute governing Extremely Hazardous Substances is the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) of 1986. This act mandates that facilities handling EHS must prepare and submit emergency plans to local authorities and provide information to the community regarding the substances they use.
| State | Regulatory Body | Additional Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| California | California Environmental Protection Agency | Requires additional local reporting and community right-to-know provisions. |
| Texas | Texas Commission on Environmental Quality | Has specific thresholds for reporting EHS based on facility size. |
| New York | New York State Department of Environmental Conservation | Imposes stricter penalties for non-compliance with EHS regulations. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| Hazardous Substances | Substances that pose a risk to health or the environment. | EHS are a subset of hazardous substances with more stringent regulations. |
| Toxic Chemicals | Substances that can cause harm to living organisms. | All EHS are toxic, but not all toxic chemicals are classified as EHS. |
If you are a business that handles Extremely Hazardous Substances, it is essential to:
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These are chemicals identified by the EPA due to their potential hazards and toxicity.