The EPA has finalized a rule amending its Risk Management Program (RMP) regulations to reduce the likelihood of accidental releases at chemical facilities and improve emergency response activities when those releases occur.
The Accidental Release Prevention regulations under Section 112(r) of the Clean Air Act (CAA) require covered facilities to develop and implement a risk management program. At press time, the amendments to EPA's RMP regulations are a key action item under President Obama's Executive Order 13650, Improving Chemical Facility Safety and Security.
The amendments are intended to:
- Prevent catastrophic accidents by improving accident prevention program requirements.
- Enhance emergency preparedness to ensure coordination between facilities and local communities.
- Improve information access to help the public understand the risks at RMP facilities.
- Improve third-party audits at RMP facilities.