Gatekeeper Newsletter January 1, 2008 Volume VIII, Edition 01 A RIZONA E MERGENCY R ESPONSE C OMMISSION 5636 EAST MCDOWELL ROAD PHOENIX, ARIZONA 85008-3495 Janet Napolitano, Governor http://www.governor.state.az.us/ Lou Trammell, Chair http://www.dem.state.az.us/ Daniel Roe, Executive Director http://www.azserc.org PASSING THE BATON: HAPPY NEW YEAR!! Inside this issue: PHMSA UPDATE EPA GRANTS OPPORTUNITY Mr. Mark H. Howard will take the reins of the AZ Emergency Response Commission (AZSERC) on January 12th, 2008. Welcome aboard Mark! Mark has been with the Arizona Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) since April 2003, working as the State’s exercise officer and as Homeland Security Grants Administrator and has worked closely with local, county, state, tribal and federal partners in administering a very intricate program that required the height of flexibility to adjust to continual program changes. Most recently he served as the Communications Chief before coming over to the Commission and has served as an instructor for ADEM for over twenty two years providing training in Hazardous Materials, Incident Command and Emergency Management courses. Mark spent over five years working in the private sector for an environmental company working projects that dealt with hazardous materials storage, hazardous waste storage and disposal, Tier II reporting, asbestos removal, mold abatement, Spill Prevention and Countermeasures Control Plans, Hazardous Materials Management Plans and Hazardous Materials Information Statements. The work took him throughout the West and Southwest to include: California, Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico. Mark was instrumental in creating a hazardous waste program for a major mining company as well as creating a site-wide waste tracking program for all waste streams at the facility. No mean feat! Mark is also a retired Tempe, AZ Police Department officer having served the public for twenty one years in that capacity. During his career he specialized in Accident Reconstruction, Hazardous Materials Investigations, and Environmental Crimes. He is a graduate of the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Public Administration Degree, majoring in Law Enforcement Administration; he resides in Gilbert, Arizona with his wife and three children. Please do welcome Mark as the AZSERC Executive Director. He can be reached at Mark.Howard@azdema.gov or at 602-231-6345 and has a full agenda of issues that he will be dealing with. These include: Continued on page 2. SAFETY TIPS FOR MOTORISTS 2 4 6 PCII PROGRAM 8 YUMA AMMONIA DAY 9 WHOA ON BIG CHANGES 10 FINES - OUCH! 12 TRIBAL CORNER 15 Tier Two Hazardous Chemical Inventory Reports due March 1, 2008. File at www.azserc.org . Start the process now! PASSING THE BATON: (Continued) - Supporting the AZSERC Chair and Director of Emergency Management, Lou Trammell; - Continuing rules development; assessment of potential statutory changes; - Working through the Sunset process to ensure that the Commission is continued; - Continuing Arizona's acclaimed Hazardous Materials Commodity Flow Study process; - Supporting staff completion of LEPC and facility emergency response plans reviews; - Supporting Arizona Peer Exchange Training for LEPC and SERC members; - Working in partnership with Government, Industry, Community and Academia to resolve issues and ensure needs are met; Regulatory Roundup in the Phoenix area; Gatekeeper support for the Southern Arizona Emergency Management Society's program; and - Working with Commissioners and Advisory Committee members to ensure their needs are also met; Continuing working with a super staff and outstanding peers as well as working in a superb department and division! -Supporting AZSERC's Tier Two OnLine Enhancement evolving process; Best of everything to Mark, Roger, Richard, Paul, Scott, Sylvia and Chrissy. Truly has been a blast...and I look to hear great things about each of you and the team. -Publishing the monthly Gatekeeper newsletter; -Working closely to support programs such as Maricopa County and Yuma County LEPC Annual Ammonia Awareness Safety Days; Gatekeeper Pipeline & Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA): PHMSA’s Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness (HMEP) grants program supports the Secretary’s Rural Transportation Safety initiative by improving the capability of local emergency planning committees (LEPCs) and volunteer emergency responders to plan, train, and exercise for a hazardous materials incident. Currently there are as many as 1,800 inactive LEPCs in rural America. PHMSA will work with federal, state and local partners and the National Association of SARA Title Three Program Officials (NASTTPO) to expand HMEP grants coverage to support re-established LEPCs so that they can develop and provide an emergency plan for their communities. It will also help increase the number of emergency responders, mostly rural volunteers, who will be trained in operations-level hazardous materials response from nearly 177,000 to 250,000 In addition, PHMSA will use its network of HMEP State grantees and their ability to reach local and rural communities to educate our nation’s youth on the need to drive safely. In 2008, PHMSA will produce and distribute nearly 2.7 million copies, both Dan LEPC CORNER printed and electronic, of the Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) free of charge to the emergency response community. The majority of these emergency responders are in rural communities. In addition, PHMSA has found that many rural emergency responders need training in the use of the ERG. To meet this need, PHMSA is working with the International Association of Fire Chiefs to develop a training video on the changes found in the 2008 ERG and how to use this invaluable guidebook. With Thanks: Thanks to Hall Rosen (ENVIROSURE Solutions), Doug Scott (Ecology and Environment) and Doug Bays (Lee Bays Supply) for their support in making the 6th of December event successful. Page 2 Gatekeeper Newsletter Donning Process and Instructions for NIOSH Approved Disposable Particulate Respirators: The NIOSH National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory (NPPTL) has been updating the list of approved disposable particulate respirators to include the donning process and user instructions. This information is being provided as a courtesy to users and has been provided by the approval holders. If the instructions for a model you are using are not listed, it has not been received it from the approval holder. You are encouraged to submit the donning processes and user instructions for all filtering face piece respirators approved by NIOSH. The current list of approved respirators can be viewed at http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/topics/ respirators/disp_part. (Thanks, as always, to: Gregory T. Banner, M.S., C.E.M., Regional Emergency Coordinator Region I - New England; US Dept of Health and Human Services JFK Federal Bldg, Room 2111 Boston, MA 02203 ) Put Yourself in Their Boots: Workplace Safety for Emergency Services Personnel is a shared responsibility. Police officers, firefighters and EMS have dangerous jobs but the risks can be minimized. What can you – the public – do to help make streets and workplaces safer for emergency services personnel to do their job? Read more at: http://www.enform.ca/assets/files/safety_t ips.pdf (PDF) (Posted by: "PC" pcjr101@yahoo.com at HAZMAT101@yahoogroups.com ) NTSB Investigation of Hurricane Rita Bus Tragedy: A Department of Transportation (DOT) National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation of a fatal fire aboard a motorcoach that transported Hurricane Rita evacuees to Texas on 23 September 2005, yielded important recommendations for personnel of the Emergency Services Sector (ESS). Fire in a rear wheel well quickly engulfed the bus, killing 23 passengers, and injuring 21 others and the bus driver. The passengers were members of the nursing staff and the elderly residents of an assistedliving facility, many of whom used wheelchairs, walkers, and medical oxygen cylinders. In fact, 18 cylinders were loaded into the vehicle's luggage compartments, and, during the trip, a number of full oxygen cylinders were retrieved from the compartments for use by passengers. The Emergency Management and Response-Information Sharing and Analysis Center (EMR-ISAC) acknowledges that medical oxygen cylinders are carried on EMS vehicles, are transported in bulk quantities on roadways by commercial vehicles, and are encountered by Page 3 responders during responses to vehicle fires, and to fire incidents in occupancies where cylinders are present. NTSB investigators found numerous hazards related to the vehicle, dangerous practices associated with vehicle maintenance, and driver issues. However, among the findings most relevant to the protection of ESS personnel is that "the exposure of an aluminum cylinder with less than 78 percent of its original quantity of gas (about 1,570 psig at room temperature) to temperatures exceeding 400° F reduces the strength of the aluminum to a point where the cylinder structurally fails before the pressure within the cylinder is great enough to activate the burst disk." (Burst disk, in this case, is the cylinder's pressure-relief device.) Three days after the accident, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) issued guidance for the safe transportation of medical oxygen for personal use on buses and trains. The NTSB report concluded that, "The possibility of structural failure in partially pressurized aluminum cylinders when exposed to heat and fire, as occurred on the accident motorcoach, poses a danger to the general public and emergency responders." PHMSA will work with the response community to develop and disseminate guidance and training concerning the risks associated with fires involving aluminum cylinders and the steps that should be taken to protect both emergency responders and the general public when such cylinders are involved in a vehicle fire. The EMR-ISAC will publicize the guidance as soon as it becomes available. To view the full report, "Motorcoach Fire on Interstate 45 During Hurricane Rita Evacuation Near Wilmer, Texas, September 23, 2005," visit http://www.ntsb.gov/ publictn/2007/HAR0701.pdf . (Thanks to Elizabeth Davis, EAD & Associates, LLC, Emergency Management & Special Needs Consultants; 718-3300034 (V/TTY); ; 718-330-0039 (Fax); www.eadassociates.com ) Gatekeeper Newsletter Outbreak Anarchy: The Capital Area Chapter of the American Red Cross and a number of its partner organizations have created and recently facilitated "Outbreak Anarchy - A Business Influenza Pandemic Tabletop Exercise." During its first offering, 73 business and community leaders participated in this powerful learning experience. For additional information on the exercise and the tools on how to facilitate it in your area, please visit the following web site: http://redcross.tallytown.com/panflu/outbr eak/ (Thank to Tim Gablehouse/ President-NASTTPO for sharing) Homeland Responder #218 - Public Works in Response http://www.homelandresponder.org/hrbrief_218.htm EPA Community Grants Opportunities: EPA announced that around $3 million will be available in 2008 to support community-based partnerships to reduce pollution at the local level through the Community Action for a Renewed Environment (CARE) program. GREAT OPPORTUNITIES FOR LEPCs, TRIBES. EPA anticipates awarding CARE cooperative agreements in two levels. Level I cooperative agreements range from $75,000 to $100,000 and will help establish community-based partnerships to develop local environmental priorities. Level II awards, ranging from $150,000 to $300,000 each, will support communities which have established broad-based partnerships, have identified the priority toxic risks in the community, and are prepared to measure results, implement risk reduction activities, and become selfsustaining. In 2007, $3.4 million in cooperative agreements were made available to more than 20 communities through the CARE program, a community-based, community-driven program that builds partnerships to help the public understand and reduce toxic risks from numerous sources. Examples of projects include addressing abandoned, contaminated industrial and residential properties in Gary, Ind., dealing with agriculture-related toxics in Yakima County, Wash., and reducing air emissions from diesel trucks and buses in Woonsocket, R.I. Since 2005, the grants to reduce toxics in the environment have reached almost 50 communities in over 20 states. Applications for the CARE grants are due March 17, 2008. Eligible applicants include county and local governments, tribes, non-profit organizations and universities. EPA will conduct three conference calls, Jan. 18, Feb. 11 and 27, for prospective applicants to ask questions about the application process. Additional information about the CARE program, previous cooperative agreement recipients, and applying for the 2008 grants is available at: http://www.epa.gov/ care (Questions? Contact: Shakeba CarterJenkins (202) 564-4355 / carterjenkins.shakeba@epa.gov ) Stop Disasters! Interesting disaster simulation game that Tom Kilday discovered the other day while surfing the web. http://www.stopdisastersgame.org/en/ (Thanks to Tom Kilday tom.kilday@us.army.mil and Emergency-Management@yahoogroups.com ) View NASTTPO's Mid-Year Conference Info: Visit the National Association of SARA Title Three Program Officials (NASTTPO) web site at www.nasttpo.org to view/download presentations from their November Mid-Year Conference/Workshop in Las Vegas. Once there go to the bottom of the page and follow the link to the NASTTPO Gatekeeper Newsletter Documents web site. You can also find the new NASTTPO guidance documents on CFATS (Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standard) and NIMS (National Incident Management System) on the NASTTPO Documents web site. will be held in April in Savannah, Georgia. For more information on the Annual Convention follow the link at the top of the NASTTPO web page at www.nasttpo.org. (Thanks to Lloyd Bokman - WebmasterNASTTPO) NASTTPO's 20th Annual Convention Page 4 Responding to Ethanol Incidents Video: The Renewable Fuels Association has prepared a 20-minute video to help provide first responders information about responding to ethanol fires. It is available via the RFA website on the home page for viewing and free download. You might find it interesting for future responder training and LEPC orientation. Visit: http://www.ethanolrfa.org/ (Thanks to Brian Pasbrig, Plant Manager, Pinal Energy, Maricopa, AZ; www.pinalenergyllc.com , 520.494.2402 and to Ole Solberg, Chair, Pinal County LEPC for sharing ) FEMA Urges Caution When Using Portable Generators: The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has joined with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in issuing a warning to consumers confronted by the recent winter weather. When there's a power outage, exercise caution when using portable generators. Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible killer. You can't see or smell it. A generator's exhaust contains poisonous CO which can kill you in a matter of minutes. Last year, at least 65 people died from generator-related CO poisoning. Many of the deaths occurred after winter storms knocked out power. Follow these important generator safety tips: * Never use a portable generator inside a home, garage, shed or other partially enclosed space, even if doors and windows are open. Place portable generators outside only, far away from the home, and keep the generator away from openings to the home, including doors, windows and vents. * Read the label on the generator and the owner's manual, and follow the instructions. * Get to fresh air immediately if you start to feel sick, weak or dizzy. CO poisoning from exposure to generator exhaust can quickly lead to incapacitation and death. Last year, CPSC mandated a new danger label on generators manufactured after May 14, 2007. The label states that, "Using a generator indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES." (Label: http://www.cpsc.gov/ generator.html ) (Thanks to hazmat101@yahoogroups.com ) * Install CO alarms with battery backup in the home outside each sleeping area. Pandemic Toolkit: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and public health experts have turned their focus away from questioning the possibility of a pandemic influenza outbreak and toward planning for the inevitable occurrence of one. A toolkit prepared by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) offers materials that Emergency Services Sector (ESS) leaders and managers can use to foster personal, organizational, and community preparedness for an event destined to strain all resources of ESS departments and agencies. The Emergency Management and Response-Information Sharing and Analysis Gatekeeper Newsletter Center (EMR-ISAC) acknowledges the CDC's assertion that "Government alone can't prepare the nation for pandemic flu." The toolkit, "Take the Lead: Working Together to Prepare Now," includes 21 items, e.g., talking points, checklists, fact sheets, sample e-mails, and sample newsletter articles, designed to use advantageously with existing information-sharing systems. A toolkit table suggests how, when, and where various items can be utilized. Emergency services in every community, especially personnel, will be among the most tested during a pandemic. The toolkit's ready-to-use resources can inform and educate ESS members and contribute to their readiness and that of their families. Encouraging other community stakeholders to use the toolkit could promote a preparedness posture that will enable responders to perform their mission with greater success. The HHS toolkit and additional pandemic and avian flu resources can be accessed at: http://www.pandemicflu.gov/takethelead/i ndex.html. (Thanks to Ed M. Kostiuk, EdK@health.ok.gov and EmergencyManagement@yahoogroups.com ) Page 5 ASSE Offers Safety Tips For Motorists: (A good article to share with Emergency Responders, your LEPC industries and the community) Des Plaines, IL - Transportation incidents are the number one cause of on-the-job deaths and with winter weather already there, the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) urges workers to stay safe when driving in winter conditions and offer employers and employees tips on how to stay safe when operating vehicles in bad weather. 'Employers and workers who drive for a living must be aware of how to drive in winter weather conditions such as snow, sleet or ice,' said ASSE President Michael W. Thompson, CSP. 'One of the leading causes of death during a winter storm is driving accidents and multiple vehicle accidents are more likely to occur in severe weather conditions.' According to the National Research Council (NRC), in the United States 7,000 fatalities, 800,000 injuries and more than 1.5 million vehicular crashes annually are associated with poor weatherrelated driving conditions. Also, according to a 2005 study published in the American Journal of Public Health, the first snow day of the year was the most dangerous, as more crash related deaths occurred during the first snowfall of the season than other snow days in the year. passengers should always wear a safety belt. when they lose body temperature in cold weather as a result of exposure. * Be careful when driving on bridges and overpasses. Elevated roadways are the first roadways to freeze in winter conditions such as snow, sleet or ice. Employers and employees should also take the following steps to be safe on the road in winter weather: * Reduce speed and increase following distances between vehicles. A vehicle needs three times more space to stop on slick or icy roads. Visibility is also more difficult in winter weather conditions. * Do not drink and drive. In 2005, 44 percent of the 398 fatal crashes that occurred on Christmas were alcohol related and 50 percent of the 471fatal crashes that occurred on New Year’s Day were attributed to alcohol. * Stay in your vehicle if stranded or stalled and wait for help. Drivers should carry a cell phone or two-way radio, with a charged battery, in order to call for help and notify authorities of their location. To keep workers and the public safe on the road, ASSE offers the following tips for safe winter weather travel: * Do not travel in vehicles if temperatures are extreme and expected to be between 20 and 34 degrees below zero. An employer whose employees may drive in areas that experience cold winter weather should consider equipping each vehicle with a winter storm kit that includes items such as blankets, a flashlight, cell phone with charger and extra batteries, a shovel, first-aid kit, non-perishable food, extra clothes, water container and more. Hypothermia is a potentially dangerous exposure during extremely cold winter months. * Wear your seatbelt. The driver and any Employees suffer from hypothermia Gatekeeper Newsletter * Plan ahead and allow plenty of time to travel. Businesses should maintain information on employee driving destinations, driving routes and estimated time of arrivals. Be patients while driving in winter conditions as travel time can increase in snow, sleet or ice. * Make sure vehicles are winterized before driving. Make sure to have a mechanic look at the battery, antifreeze, wipers and windshields washer fluid, ignition system, thermostat, lights, flashing hazard lights, exhaust system, heater, brakes, defroster, tire tread and oil level. Carry a windshield scraper for ice and snow removal. * Check weather conditions before traveling. According to the National Weather Service, a winter storm watch alerts the public of the possibility of a blizzard, heavy snow, freezing rain or heavy sleet; a winter storm warning is issued when a combination of heavy snow, heavy freezing rain or heavy sleet is expected; and a winter weather advisory is issued when accumulations of snow, freezing rain, freezing drizzle and sleet may cause significant inconvenience and moderately dangerous conditions. SOURCE: ASSE (Thanks to info@safetyonline.com for sharing) Page 6 Homeland Defense Equipment Reuse Program: Emergency Services Sector (ESS) departments can acquire, at no charge, radiological detection instrumentation, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), e.g., Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) and turnout gear, and safety, response and recovery equipment, vehicles, and apparatus through the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Office of Grants and Training (G&T) Homeland Defense Equipment Reuse (HDER) Program. These equipment resources can potentially enhance ESS critical infrastructure protection activities as well as organizational readiness. The program is the result of a partnership that includes the Department of Energy, the U.S. Navy, and Health Physics Society. The groups provide excess radiological detection instrumentation and other equipment, as well as training and technical support, to responder agencies throughout the nation. To assist responders in the proper operation and maintenance of their radiological, chemical, and biological detection and response equipment, G&T’s Domestic Preparedness Equipment Technical Assistance Program provides detailed technical information and hands-on operation and maintenance training. Local support for the equipment is also available through a partnership with the Health Physics Society. Volunteers from the Society’s local chapters perform initial operability checks on equipment shipments, conduct field checks and basic maintenance for the equipment, provide hands-on refresher training, and serve as a local source of expertise. Better Approach to Reporting? EPA has proposed a rule change to provide an administrative reporting exemption for air releases of hazardous substances -- primarily ammonia and hydrogen sulfide -- from animal waste at farms. The rule proposes enabling response authorities to better focus their attention on hazardous substance releases that require emergency response while reducing reporting burdens on America’s farms. Release notifications must still be made to emergency response authorities when hazardous substances are released to the air from sources other than animal waste (e.g., ammonia tanks), as well as releases of hazardous substances to soil and water. Gatekeeper Newsletter Administrative exemptions from particular notification requirements are authorized under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA, also known as Superfund) and the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA). Under Federal National Contingency Plan (NCP) regulations, farms and other facilities are required to report any releases of hazardous substances above an EPAestablished level to the Coast Guard National Response Center and state and local emergency response authorities. The HDER Program uses G&T’s existing relationship with State Administrative Agencies to administer the program for local responder organizations. Requests can be made quarterly, and an inventory list of available equipment is provided at the start of each calendar quarter. Items are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The Emergency Management and Response—Information Sharing and Analysis Center (EMR-ISAC) suggests that emergency agencies examine the additional information, including contacts, in the HDER Fact Sheet at http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/odp/docs/HDE R_factsheet_2006.pdf. (Thanks to EMR-ISAC) INDUSTRY CORNER farms because it is unnecessary to respond to such reports. This proposed rule would reduce the burden on the regulated community of complying with these reporting requirements and allow emergency responders to focus on hazardous substance releases that would require a response. More information on this proposed rule: http://www.epa.gov/emergencies/content/ epcra/cercla_dec07.htm . Questions? Contact Dave Ryan, (202) 564-4355 / ryan.dave@epa.gov EPA is proposing to eliminate these reports for air releases from animal waste at Page 7 All Hands!! Get signed up! Visit www.All-Hands.net to access valuable tools to assist you in your planning and response activities. Log in, go to Resources, Toolbox and search on 'cards' or whatever else you may be looking for. There are about 500 items in the toolbox and room for more. Any relevant papers, presentations, tools, templates, plans, etc. are welcome. (Thanks to Steve Davis, All Hands Community - www.All-Hands.net ) Protected Critical Infrastructure Information (PCII) Program: The Protected Critical Infrastructure Information (PCII) is an information-protection program that enhances information sharing between the private sector and the government. The Department of Homeland Security and other federal, state and local analysts use PCII to: * Analyze and secure critical infrastructure and protected systems, * Identify vulnerabilities and develop risk assessments, and * Enhance recovery preparedness measures. If the information submitted satisfies the requirements of the Critical Infrastructure Information Act of 2002, it is protected from: * The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), * State and local disclosure laws, and * Use in civil litigation. PCII cannot be used for regulatory purposes and can only be accessed in accordance with strict safeguarding and handling requirements. Submissions that do not meet the requirements are destroyed or returned to the submitter. I Want To ... * Learn More about Submitting Critical Infrastructure Information http://www.dhs.gov/xinfoshare/programs/ gc_1193091627563.shtm * Understand How PCII is Protected http://www.dhs.gov/xinfoshare/programs/ gc_1193088517704.shtm * Know Who Can Access PCII http://www.dhs.gov/xinfoshare/programs/ gc_1193089801658.shtm * View PCII Regulations http://www.dhs.gov/xinfoshare/laws/inde x.shtm Contact: PCII Program Office Phone: 202-360-3023 Email: pcii-info@dhs.gov www.dhs.gov/pcii Information about other Department programs http://www.dhs.gov/xutil/contactus.shtm . (Thanks to Ed Kostiuk for sharing EdK@health.ok.gov ) EPA Rule to Reduce Mercury Releases from Steel Mfg Facilities: EPA issued new air emissions standards that will reduce mercury releases from steel manufacturers using electric arc furnaces. The rule requires these steel making facilities to buy motor vehicle scrap from providers that participate in an EPAapproved program for the removal of mercury switches. This program, the National Vehicle Mercury Switch Recovery Program, is designed to remove mercury-containing switches from scrap vehicles before the vehicles are flattened, shredded, and Gatekeeper Newsletter melted to make new steel. These switches were used for lighting in hoods and trunks and in some anti-lock braking systems of many vehicles manufactured prior to 2003. The standards will prevent the release of about five tons of mercury in to the air each year. In addition, the rule will reduce emissions of other toxic metals such as lead, manganese, nickel and chromium by about 52 tons per year and particulate emissions by about 865 tons per year. National Vehicle Mercury Switch Recovery Program: http://www.epa.gov/mercury/switch.htm For more information on this action, visit: http://www.epa.gov/ttn/oarpg/t3/fact_shee ts/eaf_fs_121707.html (Contact: Margot Perez-Sullivan, (202) 564-7849 / perezsullivan.margot@epa.gov ) Page 8 Congrats to the 2008 ACHMM Thunderbird Chapter Board of Directors, effective on January 1, 2008: President: Dwight Clark, Ninyo & Moore (2008) Vice-President/Pres-Elect: Matt Jacobs, RMCAT Environmental Services (2008) Secretary: Laurie Preston, GAIC (2008) Treasurer: Chuck Paulausky, CP Safety & Environmental (2008-2009) Director-at Large: Frank Sanchez, PSC (2008) Director-at Large: Jeff Page, City of Phoenix (2008) Immediate Past President: Mike Ford, Bryan Cave LLP (2008) Fourth Annual Yuma Area Ammonia Safety Day- February 14, 2008: Register now! The Yuma Ammonia Safety Day Committee will hold its fourth annual safety day on February 14, 2008. This community outreach event brings to attendees greater ammonia awareness including both its benefits and hazards. Each year's event just gets better 'n better! We hosted almost 300 attendees in 2007, all of whom received important and practical knowledge about ammonia, and we anticipate more than 350 this year. In 2008 we again plan to simulate a live ammonia release to demonstrate the behavior of ammonia as it is released under pressure, and what response actions are most effective in resolving problems caused by accidental releases. In addition to the main sessions, we will be offering a choice of four workshop tracks to address specific topics, with one track available in Spanish. The purpose of the Yuma Area Ammonia Safety Day is to provide individuals with the opportunity to receive information and training from agencies and safety professionals; to network with professionals who are experts in their fields; and to develop relationships with vendors and others from the entire arena of the ammonia industry. There is no fee to attend the Safety Day; however, we ask that all attendees register on line at www.yaasd.org in order for us to provide teaching materials, handout folders and CD’s, as well as breakfast and lunch. For information on sponsorship of this event and/or for an opportunity to exhibit your products and services, please visit our website at www.yaasd.org, or contact YAASD secretary Ellen Baxter at Ellen.Baxter@ci.yuma.az.us or by phone at (928) 373-4861. Additionally, on February 15th further instruction will be offered for first responders only. This full day of specialized instruction will be geared toward police, fire, and hazmat personnel. Don't miss this one! Not only is the price right but you'll learn and/or reinforce what you already know about ammonia. Environmental Bulletin Issue #85: Visit and sign up for your own bulletin at: 1485699139&L=EBEZ-85aa-c http://pbpexecutivesummaries.com/?PID= -1999999372&Id=-1485699139 Deadly accident clears stream of all fish in five-mile stretch: From issue #85: Better hedge that bet on ethanol as a replacement for gasoline: It doesn't take much to kill everything in a creek. Company pays $100,000 to offset damages caused by a three-gallon spill of anhydrous ammonia. The boom is over for ethanol as a replacement for gasoline. Science groups and governments around the world see the heavily subsidized, corn-based product as a cure that's worse than the disease. http://pbpinfo.com/links?ID=- Gatekeeper Newsletter http://pbpinfo.com/links?ID=1485699139&L=EBEZ-85aa-d Additional Progressive Business resources you may want to try: and employees http://www.pbconferences.com Posters and forms to keep in compliance with federal and state regulations: http://www.pbcompliance.com/EBEZ Gifts and Incentives http://www.pgiproducts.com Environmental Bulletin is produced by the editors of Environmental Compliance Alert to keep customers abreast of the latest news. Training audio conferences for managers Page 9 Dust Hazards From Abrasive Blasting [29 CFR 1910.94(a)(2)] Abrasives and the surface coatings on the materials blasted are shattered and pulverized into tiny particles during blasting operations, and the dust formed will contain particles of respirable size. The composition and toxicity of the dust from these sources must be considered in evaluating the potential health hazard. The Chemical Safety Board (CSB) has investigated numerous explosions resulting from the accumulation of dust, including ones that have caused deaths, injuries, and considerable property damage. On October 18, OSHA released its Combustible Dust National Emphasis Program (NEP) document. The concentration of respirable dust or fume in the breathing zone of the abrasive-blasting operator or any other worker must be kept below the levels specified in 29 CFR 1910.1000. According to 29 CFR 1910.94(a)(2)(ii), organic abrasives that are combustible must be used only in automatic systems. Where flammable or explosive dust mixtures may be present, the construction of the equipment, including the exhaust system and all electric wiring, must conform to the requirements of American National Standard Installation of Blower and Exhaust Systems for Dust, Stock, and Vapor Removal or Conveying, Z33.1-1961 (NFPA 91-1961), which is incorporated by reference as specified in Sec. 1910.6 and Subpart S of 29 CFR 1910. The blast nozzle must be bonded and grounded to prevent the buildup of static charges. Where flammable or explosive dust mixtures may be present, the abrasive blasting enclosure, ducts, and dust collector must be constructed with loose panels or explosion venting areas, located on sides away from any occupied area, to provide for pressure relief in case of explosion. Construction of these units must adhere to the principles set forth in the National Fire Protection Association Explosion Venting Guide, NFPA 68-1954, which is incorporated by reference. A list of standards incorporated by reference in OSHA standards can be found at 29 CFR 1910.6. (Thanks to the Environmental Resource Center. See www.ercweb.com and/or contact zlopez@ercweb.com or email ERC at service@ercweb.com ; Environmental Resource Center; Phone: 919-4691585; Fax: 919-342-0807 ) WHOA On Big Changes: From Chemical & Engineering News – An industry security expert urged lawmakers who are tracking chemical plant security to give the Department of Homeland Security and the nation’s chemical manufacturers an opportunity to fully implement existing DHS regulations to protect plant sites from terrorist attacks before making big changes. The director of corporate security for BASF joined government officials and a union representative in testifying before the House Committee on Homeland Security’s Subcommittee on Transportation Security & Infrastructure Protection, which is tracking the progress of chemical plant security regulations DHS issued on April 2. By law, those DHS regulations expire in October 2009, and Congress is laying the groundwork for legislation next year to make the plant security rule permanent. But a draft chemical plant security bill floated by House Democrats is raising concerns in the chemical industry. Among other things, the bill would require facilities designated as “high risk” to adopt inherently safer technologies (IST), such as using smaller quantities of toxic substances or lowering operating temperatures. Currently, DHS cannot mandate IST. The DHS assistant secretary for infrastructure protection told the panel that the current regulations are sufficiently protective. He also noted that DHS has the authority to impose heavy fines and even shut down noncompliant facilities. However, the vice president of the International Chemical Workers Council called the existing chemical security program “woefully inadequate” and said major changes should include an IST requirement and explicit language allowing states to craft antiterrorism programs that go beyond the federal standards. Source: http://pubs.acs.org/cen/news/85/i51/8551 notw3.html (Thanks to Tim Gablehouse, NASTTPO President, for sharing ) American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials: We have added a link to AASHTO's daily newsletter on our web (Other Newsletters) as there is frequently information directly related to what you may like to know...or may need to know. The free publication is offered by AASHTO as a service to the transportation community. Visit: http://news.transportation.org. Address all inquiries to mailto: network.manager@transportation.org. Gatekeeper Newsletter Page 10 HAZMAT Transporters Require Written Risk Assessment For DOT Security Plan: The United States Department of Transportation is stepping up enforcement of HAZMAT security plans required for hazardous material transporters (including petroleum) since 2003. One major area of weakness in security plans often cited by the DOT enforcement officials is the requirement for a written risk assessment analysis that calculates the nature and magnitude of security risks to a transporter’s operations. Increasingly, the DOT is finding that petroleum transporters have not committed the risk analysis portion of the security plan to writing as required. As a result, the DOT has levied significant fines on petroleum transporters who have not completed this important step in the security plan process. The risk assessment does not have to be costly or complex and can simply involve reporting the security risk impressions, perhaps through a simple survey, of drivers, dispatchers, cargo tank and bulk storage personnel. Generally, small business petroleum marketers fully understand the dangers from both a safety and security standpoint involved with transporting petroleum products, much of it is based on common sense. However, the risk assessment process should be made as simple as possible but must be memorialized in writing and kept on file for future U.S. DOT inspections. The goal of the written risk assessment is to identify points in the petroleum distribution chain where security risks exist, but where actions can be taken to reduce the security risk. This does not mean that petroleum marketers in all situations will be required to install expensive security equipment. Simple common sense alternatives may be equally effective. The DOT only requires reasonable steps to reduce (not necessarily eliminate) risk. PTSA compiled a DOT Hazardous Material Transportation Security Plan Compliance kit that was widely distributed in 2003. (Interested in an updated version of the compliance kit, complete with security plan template … email azserc@azdema.gov and we shall contact the provider for you –include your contact information.) Guidance for preparing a written risk assessment is below. U.S. DOT Hazardous Material Transportation Security Plan - Risk Assessment Determination Worksheet Lack of a written Risk Assessment Worksheet is the most the most common U.S. DOT penalty in the enforcement of security plan Gatekeeper Newsletter regulations. Keep a written copy in your security file. a) List all the operations of the company that involves petroleum transportation. Example: - Loading and unloading operations at bulk plants, terminals or motor carriers. Delivery of product by cargo tank motor vehicle to: 1. Farmers 2. Airports 3. Marinas 4. Government entities 5. Commercial Fleets 6. Private residences 7. Retail locations 8. Co-ops b) Characterize the nature and magnitude of security risks to the petroleum shipment operations listed above. Example: - Shipments are vulnerable to unauthorized access during loading and unloading, because doors are not locked on cab, keys are left in the ignition. - There is no current communication procedure in place for receiving security information from employees or reporting security emergencies to law enforcement authorities. - Driver work histories do not undergo sufficient scrutiny. - I don’t know my motor carrier’s security procedure regarding driver screening. - Bulk plants are vulnerable because access is not controlled. There are no lights, no fence no locks on valves. The plant is vulnerable because it is in a highly populated area, next to a school, public drinking water supply, hospital, bridge or tunnel. c) What procedures will reduce the risk points identified in number two above? -Secure access to bulk storage area by unauthorized personnel. This could be accomplished by requiring all visitors (including vendors) to sign in and obtain an ID badge. Or a more expensive solution might be to erect a fence around the bulk plant, install lights or video surveillance equipment. If valves on tank and loading rack are can be locked this may be all that is necessary based on how you determine the risk. -Secure access to cargo tank vehicles. Require driers to remove keys, raise windows and lock door of cab during deliveries or whenever the vehicle is unattended. Make sure that the cargo tank is always parked in a secure well lighted area when not in use. Keys should be locked in a safe area. Cargo tanks should be empty when being stored overnight. Consider low risk delivery routes when risk is high. Maintain driver contact with phone or radio. Give driver information on how to recognize a security risk. More expensive alternatives should be considered such as remote ignition kill switches or global tracking systems if you determine that the risk to cargo tank vehicles is particularly high in your situation. -Centralize system for security information and emergency response procedures. Have a single employee responsible for receiving security information and putting into motion emergency response procedures. Keep HAZMAT drivers and HAZMAT employees informed of security risk code levels. -Train HAZMAT drivers and HAZMAT employees on how to recognize and respond to security threats. -Coordinate driver security efforts with suppliers, terminal operators or for hire motor carriers. Make sure they understand and implement security plan. -Review and if necessary amend written security plan on a periodic basis. (With thanks to the Colorado/Wyoming Petroleum Marketers Association and to Timothy R Gablehouse, NASTTPO www.nasttpo.org President for circulating.) The answer to this question is essentially what goes in the written security plan. Select the risk avoiding measures that best suits you individual operation based on risk. Example: Page 11 EPA's Office of Emergency Management: Check out EPA's new, redesigned web site at www.epa.gov/emergencies for information on EPA's prevention, preparedness and response programs. EPA's goal is to ensure that the web site continues to provide relevant, up to date, and accessible information to all users. To help users who may have bookmarked specific pages, EPA has developed topical error pages for the different programs. These pages provide a list of links that will redirect users looking for specific information to a page on the new site that has the information on that topic. make improvements to the site, including making updates to Office of Emergency Management publications. EPA invites users to explore the site and submit suggestions for making it better. Email OEM_Homepage@epa.gov. Over the next year, EPA will continue to EPA Settles with Arizona Mine for $28,950: This settlement was for failing to submit required toxic chemical reports, a violation of the federal Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act. Silver Bell voluntarily disclosed its failure to submit timely, complete, and correct reports detailing the amounts of cobalt processed in 2001-2003 at its facility located at 25000 West Avra Road in Marana, Ariz., and promptly corrected the violations. In accordance with the EPA’s general policy of working with industry and encouraging voluntary disclosure, the penalty for these violations was reduced because Silver Bell voluntarily reported the violations to the agency. “Facilities that process chemicals such as cobalt must report the use of the chemicals so residents and emergency response personnel are informed of possible chemical hazards in the community,” said Nathan Lau, Associate Director of the Communities and Ecosystems Division in the EPA’s Pacific Southwest region. If accidentally released, breathing high concentrations of cobalt can result in significant decrease of respiratory function, lung congestion, edema (swelling) and hemorrhaging in the lung. For more information on the Toxics Release Inventory program, visit: http://www.epa.gov/tri. The U.S. EPA’s environmental databases, including the TRI program data, can be accessed at: http://www.epa.gov/enviro. (Contact: Lisa Fasano 415-947-4307) EPA settles with Clorox for $95,000: EPA recently fined The Clorox Company $95,000 for allegedly distributing an unregistered and mislabeled Chinese version of Clorox Disinfectant Bleach, in violation of federal pesticide law. The company’s Los Angeles production facility donated the illegal disinfectants to Los Angeles charities in 2005 and 2006. The products were intended for Asian export, so the labels lacked adequate English-language directions for use, hazard and precautionary statements, and the required statement “Not Registered for Use in the United States of America.” “Unregistered pesticides meant solely for export must not be donated, sold, or otherwise distributed in the United States,” said Katherine Taylor, associate director Gatekeeper Newsletter of the Communities and Ecosystems Division for the Pacific Southwest region. “Clorox did not give EPA the opportunity to review these labels to ensure the protection of human health and the environment. Recipients of charity deserve the same level of protection from pesticidal risk as all other users.” The EPA annually reviews production reports submitted by industry, and found discrepancies in The Clorox Company reports for 2005 and 2006. The agency conducted a detailed investigation that uncovered 38 Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act violations. Before selling or distributing any pesticide in the United States, companies must register the pesticide with the EPA. The domestic sale or distribution of pesticides that have not been registered with the EPA, such as export-only pesticides, is a violation of federal pesticide law. The law also requires unregistered, export-only pesticides to be clearly marked with required labeling to prevent the products from inadvertently entering the U.S. market. The requirements protect public health and the environment by ensuring safe and appropriate distribution, handling, and application of pesticides. For more information on pesticide regulation and enforcement, please visit: http://www.epa.gov/pesticides (Contact: David Yogi, (808)541-2726, yogi.david@epa.gov) Page 12 Rinker Materials Fined $175,000 for Air Quality Violations: ADEQ Director Steve Owens announced that United Metro Materials, Inc. and Tanner Companies (Yuma), Inc., doing business as Rinker Materials, will pay a $175,000 civil penalty for air quality violations at five facilities in Gila, Pima and Yuma counties. Owens said that Rinker Materials has entered into a consent judgment with ADEQ and is paying the penalty for more than 18 notices of violation that have been issued to the company since 2001, including failure to install air pollution control devices such as watering systems. "Rinker Materials' failure to comply with the law put its workers and the citizens of Arizona at risk," Director Owens said. "These were serious violations of our air quality laws." Rinker Materials manufactures asphalt, sand, gravel and concrete for road paving, landscaping, and other construction projects at more than 60 facilities in Arizona. At Rinker plants ADEQ inspectors found a lack of pollution controls resulted in dust emissions of more than 50 per cent opacity, or smoke's ability to limit visibility. The EPA standard for opacity is 20 per cent in nonattainment areas, or areas which have not yet achieved federal standards for PM10 (particulate matter 10 microns or smaller). Many Rinker sites are located in PM10 nonattaiment or limited attainment areas. In addition, some Rinker plants exceeded production limits. A plant in Marana, north of Tucson in Pima County, produced more than 270 tons of asphalt per hour, though the limit is 164 tons/hour. The plant exceeded the limit for longer than six hours. The Marana facility also burned oil at excessive temperatures, causing it to smoke. "The company also operated equipment without the proper permits and, in many cases, exceeded what the permits allow," Owens said. News media interested in additional information on this or any other topic concerning the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality should contact the Office of Communications at (602) 771-2215 or via email at communications@azdeq.gov. Agriculture and Chemical Anti-Terrorism Standards: The following is from Raleigh, NC; however, it applies across the country. Thanks to Tim Gablehouse, President of the National Association of SARA Title Three Program Officials (NASTTPO) for sharing. As an aside, you really should visit www.nasttpo.org and consider membership! Farmers and agribusinesses that store fertilizers, pesticides and other chemicals may be affected the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standard (CFATS) regulation. The rule requires facilities that fall under the guidelines to fill out an assessment form or face possible penalties. Farmers need to review their materials to see if they need to complete an assessment form or not. The deadline for filling out the required form is Jan. 19, so every farmer needs to look at the list and quantities of chemicals involved as quickly as possible to be sure they are in compliance. Farmers with questions about the requirements should contact the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. In an effort to increase the security of high-risk chemical facilities, the Department of Homeland Security recently released a list of chemicals that, if possessed by a facil- Gatekeeper Newsletter ity in a specified quantity, would require them to complete a Chemical Security Anti-Terrorism Top-Screen assessment. Information on how to register in order to complete the assessment is available on the Department of Homeland Security’s Web site at www.dhs.gov/chemicalsecurity. The first step is to register with DHS, including providing a secure e-mail address (not a Yahoo, Hotmail, or AOL address). The registration form must be printed and mailed or faxed to DHS. DHS will then issue a user name and password. The registrant can then go online to complete the Top Screen assessment. The registration is not complete until the Top Screen is completed. We urge farmers and agribusiness officers to get started on this right away, North Carolina Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said. We are concerned that DHS may be overwhelmed by the response as the deadline approaches. Chemicals of interest and quantities that are most likely to affect agriculture include, but are not limited to: lons) (apparently amount stored, not capacity) • Chlorine--2,500 pounds (bulk, not bagged or in some other transportation package) • Chlorine--500 pounds (bagged, on a trailer or in some other transportation package) • Anhydrous ammonia--10,000 pounds (four typical pull behind tanks, completely loaded) • Ammonium nitrate--2,000 pounds (bagged, on a trailer or in some other transportation package) • Potassium nitrate--400 pounds (bagged, on a trailer, or in some other transportation package) • Sodium nitrate--400 pounds (bagged, on a trailer, or in some other transportation package) For more information on the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards, or to view the chemicals of interest list, go to www.dhs.gov/chemicalsecurity. For questions when completing the Top Screen, call the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards help desk at (866) 323-2957. • Propane--60,000 pounds (14,286 gal- Page 13 Minimum Elements of a Fire Prevention Plan [29 CFR 1910.39(c)]: An employer must have a fire prevention plan when an OSHA standard requires one. You can use OSHA’s Fire Safety etool (http://www.dol.gov/elaws/fire.htm) to determine if you need a plan. 29 CFR 1910.39(d) states that employers must inform their employees of the fire hazards of the job to which they are assigned upon initial assignment; and they must review with each employee the parts of the plan necessary for self protection. According to 29CFR 1910.39(c), a fire prevention plan must include: · A list of all major fire hazards, proper handling and storage procedures for hazardous materials, potential ignition sources and their control, and the type of fire protection equipment necessary to control each major hazard · Procedures to control accumulations of flammable and combustible waste materials · Procedures for regular maintenance of safeguards installed on heat-producing equipment to prevent the accidental ignition of combustible materials · The name or job title of employees responsible for maintaining equipment to prevent or control sources of ignition or fires · The name or job title of employees responsible for the control of fuel-source hazards (Thanks to Environmental Resource Center, www.ercweb.com ) TRIBAL CORNER Romic Permit Denied: EPA is denying a Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) permit for Romic Environmental Technologies Corporation - Southwest, in Chandler, Ariz., to continue to treat and store hazardous waste in the Gila River Indian Community area. The EPA is denying the waste handling and storage permit for Romic Environmental because it lacks the landowner's signature and certification, as required by federal law. "Now that Romic is ceasing operations, the EPA will ensure proper closure and clean up of any remaining hazardous waste at the facility," said Nancy Lindsay, acting division director, Waste Management Division, for the EPA’s Pacific Southwest region. "Our goal is to assist the community in putting this property back into productive reuse." On June 20, 2007 the Gila River Indian Gatekeeper Newsletter Community Council passed a unanimous resolution to not sign the Romic permit application. Romic has submitted its closure plan for this facility. The EPA will solicit public comment on the plan after the agency has reviewed it. Gila Riverâs Director of the Department of Environmental Quality Margaret Cook said, "We are pleased that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has responded to the decision made by our Community Council. This decision gives Gila River the assurances that a commitment to environmental protection and human health for our tribal members as well as those businesses that are located within the Community and our neighbors will be respected." Located at 6760 West Allison Road, the Gila River waste facility has been in existence since 1975 and Romic purchased the facility in 1988. Hazardous wastes accepted at Romic include various sol- vents, waste paint and oil, scrap metal, and wastewater. Romic submitted a final permit application to the EPA in February 2005, requesting a ten year permit to continue to treat and store hazardous waste. The EPA issued public notice of its proposed decision to deny the application earlier this summer; the agency provided a 45-day public comment period from August 24 through October 9, 2007. Comments were incorporated and the final denial document was completed in December 2007. For more information on Romic Environmental Technologies Corporation, please visit: http://www.epa.gov/region09/waste/romic /index.htm (Contact: Francisco Arcaute, (213) 244-1815, cell (213) 798-1404, arcaute.francisco@epa.gov ) Page 14 Honoring Nations 2008 Call for Nominations and Applications: Honoring Nations is a grantmaking program at Harvard University , which identifies, celebrates and shares outstanding tribal government programs and practices across Indian Country. This year, Honoring Nations will award up to 10 exemplary tribal programs. High Honors programs will receive $20,000 and Honors programs receive $10,000. Awards are projects across a broad range of subject areas, including: - Economic, Social & Cultural Programs - Natural Resource Management - Governmental Policy Development & Reform - Intergovernmental Relations - Education - Justice - Health The final application is due January 11, 2008 and an on-line application and more information about Honoring Nations is located at: www.ksg.harvard.edu/hpaied Please contact Megan Hill with any questions 617-496-4229 or megan_hill@ksg.harvard.edu Salt River Fire Department's Tribal CERT Expands Its Reach: From humble beginnings, the Salt River Fire Department's Tribal CERT Program has expanded and continues to educate the community and raise awareness among its families and surrounding neighbors...CERT continues to educate its members and branch out to other Native American communities. The positive process has connected people and overcome communications, traditions, and geographic issues that sometimes challenge other communities; the end result is fulfilling its purpose..." To read more, please go to the Citizen Corps national newsletterhttp://www.citizencorps.gov/pdf/newslett er/cc-newsletter-november2007.pdf (Thanks for sharing Rose. Rosalita M. Whitehair, Tribal Outreach Specialist, Arizona 2-1-1, Government Information Technology Agency Office: (602) 3644979; Alt: (602) 417-6996; Assistant: (602) 417-6981; E-Mail: RWhitehair@azgita.gov ; www.az211.gov ) Mitigation for Tribal Officials - A Course at EMI: (Repeated) The Emergency Management Institute (EMI) in Emmittsburg, Maryland will present E344, Mitigation for Tribal Officials on April 7-10, 2008. The course provides an overview of FEMA's mitigation programs, including mitigation planning, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), and mitigation grant programs (PDM, FMA, and HMGP). I am looking for your help in recruiting students to attend this offering. EMI reimburses travel expenses in most cases. The class will be especially helpful for those tribes who will be writing new mitigation plans, those who will be participating in county mitigation plans or those who will be updating existing plans. Attendees should fill out the FEMA form 75-5 FEMA General Admissions Application (http://training.fema.gov/Apply/755.pdf) with the course code and title: E344, Mitigation for Tribal Officials. The date: April 7-10, 2008. For tribes: Under jurisdiction (14a) check the box with special district/tribal. Under Approvals (22 and 23), have the applicant get a signature from the appropriate supervisor or tribal leader (it does not go through the State). Then mail or fax the form to EMI (301) 447-1441. For more information about EMI please see http:// training.fema.gov/Student/. Please pass the word to any who may be interested. Please hurry and register so we can have a good size group. Feel free to share this invitation with any who may be interested. (Thanks to David L. R. Freeborn, CFM, State Hazard Mitigation Officer, NM; 505-476-0871; fax 505-476-9695 david.freeborn@state.nm.us ) Governor's Tribal Community Outreach: Visit: http://azgovernor.gov/eop/TribalOutreach.asp for agency contact information. Tribal Program Link: http://www.epa.gov/region09/indian Page 15 Tribal news: http://www.navajohopiobserver.com/ Tribal Program Newsletter: http://www.epa.gov/region09/indian/newslet.html Gatekeeper Newsletter EPA Orders TCE Groundwater Investigation in Gila River Indian Community: EPA, working with the Gila River Indian Community, has ordered Plymouth Tube Company and Romic Environmental Technologies Corporation to investigate possible past trichloroethylene releases within the Gila River Indian Community, near Chandler, Ariz. Records show that Plymouth Tube, a specialty tubing supplier, used TCE in their operations prior to 2000. It is believed that the groundwater contamination at the Romic facility may be related to the operations of Southwest Solvents, which operated the facility prior to 1988. “The EPA and the Gila River Indian Community are working closely together to ensure a thorough investigation of contamination on these tribal lands,” said Nancy Lindsay, acting waste division director for the EPA’s Pacific Southwest region. “With the full cooperation of the tribe, Plymouth Tube Company, and Romic Environmental Technologies Corporation, we want to ensure that this groundwater resource, the tribe’s sole source of drinking water, is protected from historic chemical contamination.” Both groundwater investigations are a critical piece of the Gila River Indian Community’s North Central Project, which addresses past tribal land and groundwater contamination while protecting natural resources. Based on current data, the trichloroethylene releases within the Gila River Indian Community are not near any drinking water wells. “The Gila River Indian Community is pleased to be working closely with the EPA on this contamination site,” said Margaret Cook, Director of the Department of Environmental Quality, Gila River Indian Community. “The Community is also working collaboratively with both Romic and Plymouth Tube to design a complete investigation of the contamination site as well as a remediation plan for cleaning up the site.” If the investigations show groundwater contamination linked to these two companies, Plymouth Tube Company and Romic Environmental will be ordered to develop specific groundwater cleanup plans. TCE has been found in at least 852 of the 1,430 National Priorities List sites identified by the EPA. The chemical is a colorless liquid which is used as a solvent to clean grease from metal parts. Drinking small amounts of TCE for long periods may cause liver and kidney damage, impaired immune system function, and impaired fetal development in pregnant women, although the extent of some of these effects is not yet clear. Skin contact with TCE for short periods may cause skin rashes. The EPA has set a maximum contaminant level for TCE in drinking water at 0.005 milligrams per liter or 5 parts of TCE per billion parts water which is equivalent to a few drops in a standard size swimming pool. The EPA has regulations for the handling and disposal of TCE. For more information, please contact: John R. Moody, US EPA Project Manager, (415) 972-3346 or Glenn Stark, GRIC DEQ Water Quality Manager, (520) 562-2234; or Francisco Arcaute, (213) 244-1815, cell (213) 798-1404, arcaute.francisco@epa.gov ) U PCOMING E VENTS : • January 10, 2008, AESA Mid year Conference is being held in Tucson, AZ at Marriott University Park Hotel (520) 792-4100 from 9:00am 3:00pm. Cost is free to members and $25 for non AESA members. Please visit http://www.azaesa.org/conf.php for more information. • January 18-20, 2008, Arizona Fire District Association is having their Laughlin Conference at the Aquarius Resort. If you would like to be a vendor visit http://www.saminc.org/files/ Vendor.pdf . For more information contact Robin Hirth at 480-496-4331 or at info@afdanews.org . • Jan 28 - 29, 2008 - 4th Annual Gatekeeper Regulatory Roundup http:// www.epaz.org/regulatoryroundup2008-event.htm Page 16 • February 14, 2008 - Fourth Annual Yuma Area Ammonia Safety Day, There is no fee to attend the Safety Day; however, all attendees need to register on line at www.yaasd.org in order to be provided with teaching materials, handout folders and CD’s, as well as breakfast and lunch. For information on sponsorship of this event and/or for an opportunity to exhibit products and services, please visit www.yaasd.org, or contact YAASD secretary Ellen Baxter at Ellen.Baxter@ci.yuma.az.us or by phone at (928) 373-4861. EPAZ Upcoming Events • April 8-11, 2008 - 20th Annual NASTTPO Conference will be held in Savannah Georgia. Visit http:// www.nasttpo.org/Convention.htm for more information. Contact Information: *Feb 14 - Luncheon Meeting, Brownsfields *Feb 27 - Mixer - (Tempe Marketplace) *Mar 13 - Luncheon Meeting, Public Records *Mar 26 - Mixer - TBD Please visit us at http://www.epaz.org for more details about these events. GRIC/CTERC/LEPC schedule for regular meeting dates: -January 17, 2008 -February 21, 2008 -March 20, 2008 Beverly Gerlaugh Phone:520-562-2234 Fax: 520-562-2245 Email: beverly.gerlaugh@gric.nsn.us , cterc@gilanet.net Gatekeeper Newsletter To AZ ASSE/ASEA/AIHA Members: The Arizona Chapter of ASSE meets the first FRIDAY of every month from September through June at the Phoenix Country Club located at 2901 N 7th Street (7th Street and Thomas Rd). Luncheon meetings cost $20.00 and start at 11:30am. Reservations are a must! Sadly, no reservation... no vittles and perhaps no accommodations. Please RSVP to the Chapter's new VOICEMAIL number at (480) 850-9554 by the Friday before the meeting. To register on line for the lunch: azasse@yahoo.com. Also, Visit the AZASSE Web Site at http://az.asse.org (Thanks to David L. Bellmont, SCFAZ, 3030 N 3rd Street , Phoenix AZ 85012 3009 602.631.2004, 602.631.2609 Fax, dbellmont@scfaz.com and to Gary Fisher gfisher.safety@cox.net for sharing.) Hate to See You Go! If you recognize errors in how we've sent the email notifications, let us know. If you recognize an old email address of yours...let us know so we can remove it. Help us keep our listing accurate and up to date. Thanks. chris_jill60@hotmail.com hill@ttc-usa.com Jennie.Salas@spl01.usace.army.mil Ladams@stoneville.com amcalvo@cnmiemo.gov.mp dsizemore@gema.state.ga.us david@vantran.org bshea@ypit.com sgarnett@cableone.net jkinast@henry.com jhhill@sctdv.net PConner@rutlandrpc.org dwilliams@tulalip.nsn.us steve.sparrow@ky.gov arfpd@open.ORG tkristof@pr.state.az.us chrisdadams@earthlink.net Rick_Hanks@ca.blm.gov sheris@state.mt.us jsherman@pechanga-nsn.gov jude47@comcast.net vjoncas@ndep.state.nv.us pntopfd@mail.wmonline.com deannaa@heraeusmtd.com Atalamantez@errg.net jlbenshoof@mchsi.com DLIS0311@msn.com dpoore@state.mt.us Brian.williams@escocorp.com dlray@apsc.com cboyce@neighborhoodpartners.org liza04@earthlink.net glennsaracino@firsthealth.com julie@mail.dmalabs.com brettskinner@earthlink.net jimashley@millerbrooksenv.com david.baumann@edwards.boc.com Deanna.Schellin@heraeusmtd.com eduthie@sjaz.us tstonebrook@henry.com Kim.Eggers@subzero.com L ET ’ S H EAR F ROM Y OU ! Send us your inputs and feedback on the newsletter; including, exercises and other LEPC related activities in which you've been involved. Let us know what you’d like to see in future editions. Talk to us! We appreciate your input and look forward to hearing from you! Sincerely, Dan Roe Executive Director Commercial products and services are mentioned for informational purposes only and should not be construed as AZSERC endorsements. Gatekeeper Newsletter Page 17 ARIZONA EMERGENCY RESPONSE COMMISSION 5636 E. MCDOWELL ROAD PHOENIX, AZ 85008-3495 PHONE: (602) 231-6346 (602) 392-7519 FAX: Visit us on the web:www.azserc.org AZSERC STAFF Daniel Roe Roger Soden Executive Director HAZMAT Program Coordinator Richard Eaton Web Portal/ Technology Coordinator Scott Meyer Planner II Sylvia Castillo Admin Asst III Chrissy McCullough Admin Asst II COMMISSIONERS: Lou Trammell Susan Gerard Stephen A. Owens Victor Mendez Roger Vanderpool DESIGNEES: Daniel Roe Don Herrington Michael Fulton David Denlinger Sonya Herrera ADEM Director (Chair) ADHS Director ADEQ Director ADOT Director ADPS Director ADEM ADHS ADEQ ADPS ADOT ADVISORY COMMITTEE: Corporation Commission - Tom Whitmer Industrial Commission - Darin Perkins State Mine Inspector - Joe Hart State Fire Marshal - Phil Mele Radiation Regulatory Agency - Aubrey Godwin Department of Agriculture - Jack Peterson Arizona Fire Chiefs Association -Chandler FD - John Gardner -Yuma FD - Jack McArthur Asst. State Attorney General - Laurie Woodall SI Smith and Associates, LLC - Sybil Smith Apache Nitrogen - Pam Beilke Intel Corporation - James Wick Riverside Environmental - Bill Embree GATEKEEPER NEWSLETTER: DANIEL ROE – EDITOR IN CHIEF CHRISSY MCCULLOUGH - EDITOR We are currently reducing the number of hard copies we are sending out. Please send us your e-mail address so you can continue receiving the newsletter. E-Mail azserc@azdema.gov A BOUT O UR O RGANIZATION The AZSERC was established by Arizona Law (Arizona Revised Statutes-Title 26, Chapter 2, Article 3) and is tasked with the implementation of the Emergency Planning and Community Right to Know Act (EPRCA) in Arizona. This Commission oversees 15 Local Emergency Planning Committees and supports community, industry and government and academia in: planning, release and incident reporting, data management guidance for inventory reporting, public disclosure of information about hazardous chemicals in Arizona as well as development of training and outreach programs. The Commission supports individual agency goals and objectives. This is accom- plished through the receipt and coordination of emergency notifications of chemical releases, collection and provision of chemical inventory information to interested parties, training and grants programs. Additionally, the AZSERC provides consultative services, conducts and participates in workshops and coordinates development and review of plans and programs for 15 Local Emergency Planning Committees. Further, the AZSERC serves as a state clearinghouse for hazardous chemical emergency preparedness and planning activities and information through coordination with federal, tribal, state, local governments, industry and community interest groups.