Rhode Island Environmental Standards for the Investigation and Remediation of Hazardous Material Releases
1. What is the purpose of these regulations?
The Rhode Island regulations aim to establish a consistent and integrated program for reporting, investigating, and remediating contaminated sites to effectively manage risks to human health and the environment. They set clear cleanup objectives for soil and groundwater based on current and future land use.
2. Who must notify the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) about a hazardous material release?
Any responsible party, such as property owners, operators, and transporters, must notify DEM of any hazardous material releases within 15 days of discovery.
3. What are the key functions of the Department of Environmental Management under these regulations?
DEM regulates the investigation and cleanup of hazardous material releases, grants, or revokes permits and approvals for remediation, and it ensures public involvement and environmental justice in decision-making.
4. What is considered a “Contaminated-Site”?
A contaminated site is any area impacted by hazardous material releases that require investigation and remediation. It includes any source area or series of sources with contamination potentially threatening human health or the environment.
5. What immediate actions are required in case of an imminent hazard due to a hazardous material release?
The responsible party must immediately notify DEM, take appropriate action to contain and mitigate the release and ensure that emergency or short-term response actions protect human health and the environment.
6. What is the role of public involvement in the investigation and cleanup process?
Public involvement ensures that individuals have timely and accurate information and opportunities to provide input and participate in decisions affecting them. It helps develop workable solutions and ensures that diverse voices are heard.
7. What are the cleanup objectives for soil and groundwater under these regulations?
The regulations establish clear cleanup objectives for soil and groundwater to manage risks to human health and the environment, considering current and reasonably expected future land use.
8. How are remedial alternatives evaluated during the site investigation?
At least two remedial alternatives, excluding the no-action alternative, must be proposed and evaluated based on technical feasibility, cost-effectiveness, compliance with laws and regulations, and the ability to perform the preferred alternative.
9. What steps are required for notifying the public about site investigations and cleanups?
Responsible parties must notify abutting property owners, tenants, and local authorities about investigation and remediation activities. Public meetings must be held for sites proposed for reuse, such as schools, childcare facilities, or recreational areas, to gather community input.
10. How does DEM ensure compliance with these regulations?
DEM conducts inspections, obtains samples, and reviews records to ensure compliance. Responsible parties must submit periodic progress reports during the site investigation and cleanup.
11. What is an Emergency Permit, and when is it required?
An Emergency Permit is required for on-site treatment of hazardous waste that exceeds 24 hours. Responsible parties must apply for this permit if extended treatment is necessary to remove imminent hazards.
12. What happens after the completion of remedial actions at a contaminated site?
DEM will review the site investigation and remediation efforts. Based on the findings, DEM may issue a No-Further Action letter, an Interim Letter of Compliance, or a Letter of Compliance indicating that the site has been adequately assessed and cleaned up.
13. What is the definition of “Environmental Justice” in the context of these regulations?
Environmental justice involves the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people, regardless of race, colour, national origin, English language proficiency, or income, in developing, implementing, and enforcing environmental laws, regulations, and policies. The goal is to ensure that all communities have a strong voice in environmental decision-making and enjoy the same protection from environmental and health hazards.
14. Are there any exemptions from the notification requirements for hazardous material releases?
Yes, releases resulting solely from an underground injection control system or a leaking underground storage tank are exempt from the notification requirements under these regulations.
These FAQs provide a concise understanding of the regulations’ key aspects and requirements for environmental consultants and other stakeholders involved in site remediation activities.
Further documentation can be found on the ESdat Environmental Standards page.
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