EPA

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) imposes standards to protect the environment and public health from hazardous materials and other pollutants. Of particular interest to healthcare organizations are Air Emissions Permitting (Clean Air Act), Waster Water Permitting (Clean Water Act), Medical Waste Incineration, and Underground Storage Tanks.

Environmental Protection Agency Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure Plan (SPCC) -- May 8, 2007
SPCC (www.epa.gov/oilspill/spcc.htm) is part of the Clean Water Act. All facilities that use aboveground storage tanks with a capacity greater than 1320 gallons or a total underground capacity greater than 42,000 gallons must have a SPCC plan. The primary purpose is to mitigate the possibility of a spill that could contaminate water supplies. This includes not only nearby water sources and storm sewers but also must take into consideration the possibility of contaminating ground water. The plan must have a professional engineer's (PE) certification

EPA Proposes Rule Limiting Emergency Generator Testing
On July 11, 2005, the EPA published a proposed rule in the Federal Register that sets performance standards for stationary compression ignition internal combustion engines. Although this proposed rule affects many industries, it specifically affects healthcare providers with emergency generators, engine powered fire pumps, and generators used for peak shaving or load curtailment. The proposed rule is intended to set minimum air quality performance standards for new engines only (beginning with model year 2007 engines). It is not meant to be applied to existing engines already in service. Emergency generators are restricted to 30 hours per year in non-emergency usage. The limitation of 30 hours includes routine testing and maintenance. There is no limitation on runtime hours for emergency operation.