FRIENDLY REMINDER!
The time of the year for The New York City (NYC) Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) annual Community Right-To-Know (RTK) filing is once again approaching! The NYC Community RTK Program requires businesses to submit inventory information to the NYC DEP annually if they handle/store any chemicals or substances that could impact the environment and/or public health by March 1st each year.
WHO NEEDS TO FILE?
Many different types of businesses require RTK filing due to their use of chemicals above regulated thresholds. Some of these reportable chemicals include:
- Motor Oil, Brake Fluid, Antifreeze
- Paints, Paint Thinners, Lacquers, Dyes
- Cleaning Supplies, Bleach, Wax, Solvents, Detergents
- Aerosols, Air Fresheners, Disinfectants, Insect Repellants
- Lubricants, Grease, Degreasers
- Batteries, Fertilizers, Preservatives
- Compressed Gas Cylinders
Some types of businesses that typically handle/store these chemicals include:
- Automotive shops (Service Stations, Car Dealerships, and Auto Body Shops)
- Dry Cleaners
- Funeral Homes
- Industrial and commercial businesses
- Laboratories
- Bulk Supply Stores
- Hospitals
- Utilities
If any of these might apply to you, you are required to report to complete the annual reporting with quantities of hazardous substances for your facility to the DEP.
MAKE SURE TO START EARLY AND FILE ON TIME
Although it may seem like there is a lot of time left until March 1st, it is highly recommended that businesses begin the process of filing as early as possible so that the filing can be completed properly and on time. Any businesses who fail to file the DEP’s Community RTK Tier II report by March 1st could be subjected violations and hefty fines. First time Right-to-Know violations may result in fines up to $2,500.
STILL NOT SURE IF RIGHT TO KNOW APPLYS TO YOU? WE ARE HERE TO HELP
Whether you have filed in the past or need to file for the first time, Walden can address any questions or concerns that you may have. Some facilities may be exempt from filing an inventory report, but are still required to submit a written letter justifying why the RTK filing does not apply to them. This justification letter has to be first approved by the NYC DEP before for your business can be safe from any future violations.
If you are still not sure if RTK applies to your facility or have any questions regarding your chemical inventory, RTK filing, or NYC DEP compliance, please give us a Call at (516) 624-7200 or please refer to our Right-to-Know webpage.