In light of the spring floods in Kentucky, the Kentucky DEP’s Division of Waste Management (DWM) issued a reminder to hazardous waste generators of their emergency requirements under RCRA, urging them to update their emergency plans as necessary. While both small and large quantity generators must comply with specific RCRA emergency regulations, DEP recommends, but does not require, conditionally exempt small quantity generators to follow these requirements as well:

• Have an adequate internal alarm or communications system in place. Voice is OK for small facilities.
• Designate an emergency coordinator and an alternate who is on the premises or on call at all times.
• Post emergency information right by the phone that includes the emergency coordinator’s name, office, home phone number, and address. Make sure employees in outside hazardous waste sheds can contact emergency assistance quickly and easily.
• Ensure adequate aisle space for emergency response, adequate water for fire fighting, and have available properly maintained fire extinguishers and alarms, spill control material, and decontamination supplies.
• Make advanced emergency arrangements with the police and fire departments, emergency response teams, equipment suppliers, and emergency contractors and hospitals.

INFO: Contact DWM at 502-564-6716 or waste@ky.gov.