How to Report a Refrigerant Spill
When determining whether to report a refrigerant spill, there are a number of variables to consider. You first need to know if you are dealing with an emergency situation or a violation. An emergency is a spill that poses an imminent threat to public health. A violation could be a minor spill or loss of refrigeration. The reporting policies are different depending on which situation you face. For violations, the spills can be reported as part of the normally required quarterly and annual reports.
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Instructions
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Determine the extent of the spill. Assess whether the refrigerant has spilled into any natural environment such as open land or a water source. Identify what risks the spill poses to employees or the public.
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Call the EPA's National Response Center at 1-800-424-8802 if you have a refrigerant spill that poses a danger to the public or your employees. Also contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 if any person has come in contact with the spilled refrigerant.
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Report observed or suspected violations of environmental rules or regulations regarding refrigerant spills by filling in an online form (see the Resources section) or by contacting your state's EPA office. You should have information on the suspected violator's location, the date of the incident if known and whether the violation is ongoing.
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Record releases of refrigerant of more than 100 pounds any time they occur. The date of the spill and the estimated quantity of the refrigerant spilled should be recorded and included in production totals when making required quarterly and annual reports to the EPA. See the Resources section for more information on EPA reporting requirements.
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References
Resources
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