Emergency Response Plan

 

2007 Meeting Dates

Tuesday, February 20

Tuesday, May 15

Tuesday, August 21

Tuesday, November 20

Community Right to Know

The LEPC has set up a Community Right to Know Program which incorporates the chemicals reported to the LEPC by local businesses.

 

This program is based upon the 1986 Title III of Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA).  This legislation requires local planning by businesses and response agencies (such as fire departments) whenever hazardous materials are involved. SARA also requires the establishment of a system in each community that informs citizens of chemicals used, manufactured or stored locally.

 

What is LEPC?
A committee required by the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act that is made up of representatives from government, industry, elected officials, environmental groups and others.

 

The Kane County LEPC has incorporated the planning requirements of Title III into the County's Emergency Response Plan developed by the Kane County Office of Emergency Management.

 

Business' using or generating certain quantities of materials on the EPA's Extremely Hazardous Substance list must report to the LEPC and their local fire departments. 

Who does the emergency planning?
Any business which uses, manufactures, stores or transports hazardous materials is required to have procedures for safe handling of these materials as well as emergency response procedures.

Fire departments and other response agencies are also required to have procedures for hazardous materials spills.

Hazardous Materials
Hazardous materials have one or more of the following characteristics:

  • Corrosive

  • Flammable

  • Poisonous

  • Toxic Fumes

Many solids, gasses and liquids used in the production of fuels, medicines, plastics, and other products and processes in our community are classified as hazardous. Hazardous materials are used. stored and transported daily throughout the country.

Under most circumstances, these materials are handled safely.  However, when improperly handled, disposed of or released these substances can become hazardous to people and the environment necessitating coordinated planning fro emergencies.