When a spill occurs of an "RQ" substance the carrier has ______ days to report the spill.

When a spill occurs involving a substance designated with a Reportable Quantity (RQ), carriers are required to report the incident to the appropriate authorities within a specified timeframe. The correct answer indicates that carriers have 30 days to report such a spill. This requirement ensures that authorities can respond to environmental hazards effectively and monitors compliance with safety regulations related to hazardous materials.

The rationale behind the 30-day reporting requirement is to balance the necessity for timely reporting with the need for thorough investigation and assessment of the spill's impact. This timeframe is established to ensure that adequate data is gathered about the incident while still facilitating prompt communication with regulatory bodies.

Understanding this requirement is crucial for carriers handling hazardous materials, as it aligns with federal regulations aiming to minimize risks and promote safety in the transportation of dangerous goods. Adhering to this timeline allows for appropriate responses, potentially mitigating environmental damage and protecting public health.