What chemical safety documentation must facilities covered under EPCRA maintain?

Facilities covered under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) are required to maintain Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for hazardous chemicals they store or use. The purpose of SDS is to provide detailed information about the properties of each chemical, including its potential hazards, handling procedures, and emergency measures. This documentation is essential not only for ensuring compliance with EPCRA but also for facilitating the safe management of hazardous materials.

Safety Data Sheets serve as a vital resource for workers, emergency responders, and the community, promoting transparency and informed actions during hazardous situations. The transition from Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) to SDS represents a shift towards a more standardized approach to chemical safety documentation, with SDS following an internationally recognized format that improves clarity and ease of access to critical safety information.

In summary, the requirement for maintaining Safety Data Sheets aligns with the goals of EPCRA to promote public safety and environmental protection by ensuring that everyone involved is adequately informed about the chemicals present on site.