Which of the following is a key trigger for complying with emergency planning and community right-to-know reporting?

• A. Storing or using any listed substance at or above its threshold planning quantity
• B. Only in response to a regulatory request
• C. Only when the public asks for information
• D. If you store listed substances only in sealed containers

Answer: (A)

Emergency planning and community right-to-know reporting kicks in when you store or use a listed substance at or above its threshold planning quantity. EPCRA sets specific quantity levels for certain hazardous substances; once your facility holds or uses that amount, you must participate in emergency planning (with the local emergency planning committee) and provide required information to the state and the community about potential releases. The trigger is the actual quantity, not whether a regulator asks you, whether the public requests information, or whether the substances are kept in sealed containers. Even sealed containers don’t remove the obligation if the stored or used amount meets the TPQ.