The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken enforcement action against ten facilities across California for violations of the Clean Air Act's chemical safety requirements, including two public water treatment plants. The Benicia Water Treatment Plant, located in Benicia, and the Cement Hill Water Treatment Plant in Fairfield were both cited for failing to comply with the federal Risk Management Program (RMP), which is designed to prevent hazardous chemical accidents.
According to the EPA, the Benicia Water Treatment Plant failed to submit its Risk Management Plan and update emergency contact details in a timely manner. Meanwhile, the Cement Hill Water Treatment Plant neglected to submit its required Risk Management Plan report altogether. Each facility agreed to pay a civil penalty of $1,800 and $800, respectively, and has since taken steps to return to compliance.
“Reducing risks from accidental releases of toxic substances is a core responsibility for EPA,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Josh F.W. Cook. “As a result of our actions, workers, first responders, and communities throughout California will be made safer from chemical accidents.”
The Risk Management Program requires facilities that use extremely hazardous chemicals to develop safety plans, conduct hazard analyses, maintain emergency response protocols, and submit regular updates to the EPA. Noncompliance can pose significant dangers not only to facility workers, but also to surrounding communities.
