E.P.A. Suggestion Strengthens Nation’s Preparedness Level and Response to Oil Spills
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Category: Emergency ResponseType: News
Source: EPA
Date: Tuesday, January 13th, 2015
Agency Suggests Amendments to Subpart J of the National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Project
Washington- The E.P.A. (EPA) is proposing to amend requirements under the National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Project (NCP) to enhance the nation's ability to Project for and respond to oil spills. This suggestion addresses issues raised by the public, responders, government, and industry officials during the 2010 Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill.
"Our emergency officials need the best accessible science and safety information to make informed spill response decisions when evaluating the use of specific products on oil discharges," said Mathy Stanislaus, assistant administrator for EPA's Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response. "Our suggested amendments incorporate scientific advances and lessons learned from the application of spill-mitigating substances in response to oil discharges and will help ensure that the emergency planners and responders are well-equipped to protect human health and the environment."
The suggested Subpart J revisions include:
· New and revised product toxicity and efficacy test methodologies for dispersants, and other chemical and biological agents;
· New toxicity and efficacy criteria for listing agents on the Subpart J Product Schedule;
· Additional human health and safety information requirements from manufacturers;
· Revised area planning requirements for chemical and biological agent use authorization; and
· New dispersant monitoring requirements when used on certain oil discharges.
Dispersant manufactures will be able to use a new, well-tested and peer reviewed lab method for determining the effectiveness of their dispersant on 2 types of crude oils at 2 temperatures measured against suggested performance criteria. The agency is also proposing an aquatic toxicity threshold such that products that meet both the performance and toxicity criteria will offer greater performance at less environmental impact.
E.P.A. is also proposing product chemical ingredient disclosure options and new evaluation criteria and a process for removing products from the Product Schedule.
The agency will accept public comments on the suggestion for 90 days following publication in the Federal Register.
Details about the suggested amendments are accessible at:
http://www2.epa.gov/emergency-response/national-contingency-plan-subpart-j
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