Risk Management Planning

The assistance requested by Erie County companies was primarily focused on three specific areas associated with the RMP requirements:

1. determination of the general requirement to comply;

2. calculation of the distance to endpoints associated with worst case and alternative case scenarios, and

3. mapping of these scenarios to determine the population and other receptors affected.

The resource center, established with funds made available through a grant from the EPA, proved to be a valuable tool for both program staff and company representatives.

The project proved to be a valuable tool to encourage companies to switch to alternative chemicals in order to reduce risk and thereby avoid the regulation. At least 3 companies in Erie County chose alternative processes or products and reduced both pollution and risk. Moreover, the project served to create a lasting partnership between Erie County's Pollution Prevention Program and the Local Emergency Planning Committee. The project was honored with an honorable mention from the Chemical Education Foundation.