Who must be notified of any spills exceeding the Reportable Quantity (RQ)?

The requirement to notify the appropriate authorities in the event of a spill exceeding the Reportable Quantity (RQ) is crucial for ensuring public safety and environmental protection. The correct answer highlights that both the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must be informed of such incidents.

Notifying the DOT is essential because they regulate the transportation of hazardous materials. They need to be aware of any emergencies that might affect public safety on the roads or transportation networks. The EPA, on the other hand, oversees environmental concerns and pollution control. They need to be alerted to assess the potential impact on the environment and take necessary actions to mitigate any harm caused by the spill.

While local authorities and emergency response teams may also play a significant role in managing the immediate response to a spill, and the Department of Health may be involved in public health assessments, the specific requirement under RQ regulations mandates notification to both the DOT and EPA for compliance with federal laws. Therefore, the focus on these two departments aligns with regulatory frameworks designed for effective and coordinated response to hazardous spills.