Environmental Compliance Flashcards

Under EPCRA Section 313 (Toxics Release Inventory), ammonia is reportable when 'otherwise used' quantities exceed what annual threshold?

Answer: 10,000 pounds

The TRI 'otherwise use' threshold is 10,000 pounds per year, while manufacture or processing thresholds are 25,000 pounds.

For RMP Program 2 and 3 processes, how often must compliance audits be conducted?

Answer: Every 3 years

RMP compliance audits must be conducted at least every three years.

How long must RMP records supporting the plan generally be retained?

Answer: 5 years

The RMP rule requires that supporting records be maintained for five years.

An ammonia release travels off-site and could reach the public; which part of an RMP describes these potential impacts?

Answer: The hazard assessment / offsite consequence analysis

The offsite consequence analysis in the hazard assessment estimates how far a release could travel and which populations it could affect.

Why is EPA Section 608's refrigerant recovery and certification program generally not the main compliance framework for ammonia systems?

Answer: Section 608 focuses on ozone-depleting and HFC substitute refrigerants, and ammonia is exempt from its venting prohibition

Section 608 targets halocarbon refrigerants, and ammonia is exempt from its venting prohibition, though other laws still restrict ammonia releases.

A small ammonia leak is found at a valve packing; what is the best environmental compliance practice?

Answer: Document it, isolate if needed, and repair it promptly

Prompt documentation and repair limits emissions, protects workers, and supports release tracking for reporting requirements.

Which EPA program lets the public review a facility's ammonia hazards, emergency planning, and accident history?

Answer: The Risk Management Program

RMP summaries give communities and responders information about hazards, prevention, and the five-year accident history.