If a confirmed release is reported within 24 hours, what is required?

When a confirmed release of hazardous substances from an underground storage tank (UST) is reported, it triggers specific regulatory responses to understand and mitigate any potential impacts on human health and the environment. The requirement for a site characterization is critical in this context.

Site characterization involves a detailed assessment of the extent of the release. It includes determining the type and quantity of the hazardous substance, the pathways it may have taken, the impacted media (such as soil and groundwater), and the potential risks to nearby receptors, including human populations and ecological systems. This comprehensive understanding is necessary to guide remediation efforts and ensure compliance with health and environmental regulations.

Upon confirmation of a release, a site characterization ensures that the necessary information is gathered for effective decision-making regarding further site assessments and remedial actions. This process is essential for establishing the severity of the contamination and determining the appropriate response measures. Therefore, the requirement for a site characterization following a confirmed release is rooted in the need to ensure both regulatory compliance and the protection of public health and the environment.