California Accidental Release Prevention Program

CalEPA oversees the statewide implementation of the California Accidental Release
Prevention (CalARP) program, which aims to prevent accidental releases of extremely
hazardous substances that pose the greatest risk of immediate harm to the public and
the environment, to minimize the damage if releases do occur, and to satisfy community
right-to-know laws.

CalARP Program Overview

The California Accidental Release Prevention (CalARP) program was implemented on January 1, 1997, and replaces the former California Risk Management and Prevention Program (RMPP). The purpose of the CalARP program is to prevent accidental releases of substances that can cause serious harm to the public and the environment, and to minimize the damage if releases do occur.

CalARP requires certain facilities (referred to as “stationary sources”) which handle, manufacture, use, or store any regulated substances above threshold quantities to take actions to proactively prevent and prepare for accidental releases. Facilities subject to CalARP requirements must submit a Risk Management Plan (RMP).

The California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA) oversees the implementation of the CalARP program at the state level, while Certified Unified Program Agencies (CUPAs) and/or Participating Agencies (PAs) implement the CalARP program at the local level.

 

What Is a Risk Management Plan?

A Risk Management Plan is a document prepared by the owner or operator of a stationary source containing detailed information including, but not limited to:

  • Regulated substances held onsite at the stationary source;
  • Offsite consequences of an accidental release of a regulated substance;
  • The accident history at the stationary source;
  • The emergency response program for the stationary source;
  • Coordination with the local emergency responders;
  • Hazard review or process hazard analysis;
  • Operating procedures at the stationary source;
  • Training of the stationary source’s personnel;
  • Maintenance and mechanical integrity of the stationary source’s physical plant; and
  • Incident investigation.

 

Who Is Required to Submit a Risk Management Plan?

An owner or operator of a stationary source that has more than a threshold quantity of a regulated substance (as specified in Tables 1-3, CCR, Title 19 Section 5130.6) in a process are required to complete and submit an RMP. There may be exemptions and exclusions for owners and operators.

 

Legal Authority:

California State Law: California Health and Safety Code, Division 20, Chapter 6.95, Article 2, Sections 25531 to 25543.3

California State Regulations: California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 5, Chapter 2, Sections 5050.1 to 5160.1

If you have any questions regarding the CalARP program, please contact the program at CalARP@calepa.ca.gov.