Nov 30, 2007

January 19, 2008 Due Date for Facilities to File Chemical "Top Screen" with Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued the Final Appendix A "Chemicals of Interest" list on November 20, 2007.  This rule requires affected facilities to file a "Top Screen" submittal within 60 days after the appendix was published, which is January 19, 2008. 
 
Appendix A has over 300 "Chemicals of Interest" and each chemical is classified according to hazards and security risks defined in 13 different regulatory categories.  A facility must register with the DHS and then file a Top Screen if it has any chemical listed in the Appendix over the specified threshold amount.  Although specific exclusions are provided for calculating quantities of certain chemicals, there is NO general exemption provided for small businesses, including agriculture or college laboratories, from the Top Screen submittal requirement. 
 
DHS is authorized to impose penalties of up to $25,000 per day for facilities that fail to comply with the regulation.
 
Some of the over 300 "Chemicals of Interest" are as follows:
  • Propane
  • Ammonium hydroxide
  • Aluminum powder
  • Ammonia
  • Ammonium nitrate
  • Butane
  • Chlorine
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Anhydrous sulfur dioxide
     
    For additional information, visit the DHS website: http://www.dhs.gov/xnews/releases/pr_1193971111885.shtm   
     
    To assist facilities in meeting the DHS requirement, FET is hosting the Emergency Planning and Anti-Terrorism Requirements for Facilities seminar on Thursday, December 6, 2007 in Brookfield, WI.  Visit the FET website at www.fetinc.org
     to register today.