What Substances Are Being Regulated Under CalARP? Here Are Some Examples

Introduction 

The California Accidental Release Prevention (CalARP) Program in the USA was created to reduce the risk of chemical accidents involving hazardous substances. This program regulates the handling, storage, and release of specific chemicals that could threaten public health, safety, and the environment. 

Businesses that deal with regulated substances must comply with CalARP requirements to prevent accidental releases that could cause significant harm.

Why Are Some Businesses Subject to the CalARP Program? 

The CalARP Program targets facilities that handle large quantities of hazardous substances that pose risks to people and the environment. These chemicals are often categorized as flammable, toxic, reactive, or corrosive. 

Companies that handle, store, or transport regulated substances in amounts exceeding specified thresholds must comply with the CalARP Program requirements, which include developing Risk Management Plans (RMPs), conducting hazard assessments, and implementing safety measures to prevent accidental releases.

CalARP is critical because accidental releases can result in toxic exposures, fires, explosions, and widespread environmental damage. It was established to mitigate these risks by ensuring that companies handling hazardous chemicals adhere to strict protocols for storage, containment, and emergency preparedness.

Businesses subject to CalARP include those involved in chemical manufacturing, petroleum refining, water treatment, and industrial cleaning. These industries frequently deal with regulated substances, which, if released in significant quantities, can have disastrous consequences for workers, nearby communities, and the environment. The program aims to safeguard public safety by ensuring these facilities comply with CalARP’s stringent guidelines.

Examples of Regulated Substances Under the CalARP Program 

Several hazardous substances are regulated under CalARP in the USA, and it is due to their potential to cause severe harm if not managed properly. Below are some of the most common regulated substances that chemical processing facilities and other businesses handle.

Chlorine 

Chlorine is widely used in water treatment plants to disinfect drinking water and wastewater and in various manufacturing processes for cleaning products and plastics. While effective as a disinfectant, chlorine is also highly toxic. When chlorine gas is released into the air, it can cause severe respiratory issues and lung damage, especially in high concentrations. Exposure to chlorine gas can result in chemical burns, lung irritation, and, in extreme cases, death.

Due to chlorine’s toxicity, facilities handling large quantities must implement robust safety protocols. These may include installing gas detection systems, ensuring proper ventilation, and training employees in emergency response procedures in case of accidental release.

Aqueous Ammonia 

Aqueous ammonia is a solution of ammonia gas dissolved in water. It is commonly used in agriculture as a fertilizer and industrial cleaning applications. While less volatile than anhydrous ammonia, aqua ammonia is still hazardous due to its corrosive and toxic properties. If released, it can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system.

Facilities storing aqua ammonia must adhere to strict containment, labeling, and emergency response guidelines. These include using specialized containers designed to prevent leaks and conducting regular inspections of storage areas.

Anhydrous Ammonia 

Anhydrous ammonia is a toxic, flammable gas used in refrigeration, fertilizer production, and other industrial applications. Because of its hazardous properties, it poses significant risks if accidentally released. Exposure to anhydrous ammonia can result in severe chemical burns, lung damage, and even death if inhaled in large quantities.

Businesses must follow specific handling and storage requirements to mitigate the risks associated with anhydrous ammonia. These include ensuring that containers are well-maintained, conducting regular safety inspections, and equipping workers with personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent exposure.

Nitric Acid 

Nitric acid is a highly reactive corrosive chemical used in various industrial processes, including fertilizer production, explosives, and metal etching. When inhaled, acid can cause severe burns to the skin and eyes and respiratory issues. Nitric acid is also reactive with many other substances, which increases the potential for dangerous chemical reactions if improperly handled.

Facilities using or storing nitric acid must implement strict containment strategies, such as proper ventilation, corrosion-resistant storage tanks, and protective barriers to prevent accidental releases. Workers must also be trained in safe handling procedures and emergency response in case of spills or leaks.

Hydrofluoric Acid 

Hydrofluoric acid is a hazardous substance used in oil refining, glass etching, and metal processing. It is dangerous because it can penetrate skin and tissue, leading to severe internal injuries that may not be immediately noticeable. Inhalation of hydrofluoric acid vapors can also cause significant respiratory distress, making it one of the most dangerous acids in industrial use.

Given the high risks associated with hydrofluoric acid, facilities must ensure that workers wear specialized PPE or protective clothing and have immediate access to safety showers and emergency medical treatment in case of exposure. Proper containment systems, such as closed-loop processing and dedicated storage tanks, are also essential to prevent accidental releases.

Potassium Cyanide 

Potassium cyanide is a highly toxic compound used in electroplating, mining, and organic synthesis. Even small amounts of cyanide can be lethal if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. Cyanide works by inhibiting the body’s ability to use oxygen, leading to respiratory failure and death in severe cases.

Facilities that handle potassium cyanide must implement the highest level of safety precautions, including secure storage in locked, labeled containers, rigorous employee training, and immediate access to antidotes and emergency response protocols.

Conclusion 

The CalARP Program plays a vital role in managing the risks associated with hazardous substances. It provides a structured and regulatory framework that requires businesses to take preventive measures to avoid accidental chemical releases. Substances regulated under the program include chlorine, aqueous ammonia, anhydrous ammonia, nitric acid, hydrofluoric acid, and potassium cyanide.

Facilities that handle these substances must prioritize safety by following CalARP guidelines, which include developing risk management plans, conducting employee training, and performing routine inspections. By implementing these safety measures, businesses can protect their workers, surrounding communities, and the environment from the dangers associated with hazardous chemicals.

Understanding the importance of the CalARP Program in the USA and adhering to its requirements ensures that companies can operate safely, reduce the risk of chemical accidents, and enhance public safety.

For expert guidance on the CalARP program, you can reach out to Saltegra Consulting LLC. We offer compliance audit services, enhancement programs, and submittals to help you optimize your process and improve your compliance performance.