Under an agreement with the US EPA, NICS conducted a study [released June 2002] to assess how local emergency planning committees may be using risk management plans (RMP) to improve community safety. The EPA required companies, starting in 1999, to tell the public about worst-case possibilities if toxic or flammable chemicals escape from their property.

     Using a qualitative approach, the NICS study is based on interviews with 32 LEPCs that are considered to be "active" in conducting programs that fulfill their federal mandate.

     The study's chief finding was that LEPCs see a need to focus more attention on reducing chemical hazards in their communities but face many obstacles in doing so.  Most LEPCs believe they “do not have the time, resources or expertise to encourage hazard reduction,” the report said.

     Most LEPCs rely on the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986 for guidance on their hazard reduction activities. RMPs are another tool LEPCs can use to meet their information-sharing responsibilities. Also, significant reductions in hazards are more likely to result from OSHA’s process safety management requirement and from industry standards such as the Responsible Care Code.

     The study report makes several recommendations. One is that the LEPC role in hazard reduction be more clearly defined and that resources to support that role be made available.

     The full, 36-page study is available for downloading in PDF format by clicking here. The report is also available for $10 per copy from NICS by phone or email.