Spill / Release Notification

Title 19 of the California Code of Regulations, section 2631 requires immediate reporting of any significant release or threatened release of a hazardous material to the California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) and local unified agency. Below is information to help you determine when and how to report.

What is a reportable release?

A “threatened release” is not a release, but a condition that creates a substantial probability of harm and makes it reasonably necessary to take immediate action to prevent, reduce, or mitigate damages to persons, property, or the environment. For example:

• A hazardous material or waste storage tank becomes unstable and begins to lean to one side. The tank is in danger of falling over and releasing its contents.
• A valve on a tank or on piping has extensive corrosion, and failure appears imminent.

A “significant release” is not defined in code with the intention of allowing CUPAs discretion in interpretation. LAFD interprets a “significant release” as any release in any amount that meets one or more of the following criteria:

• Enters the soil, atmosphere, or storm drain.
• Results in injury or hospitalization.
• Results in evacuation of the facility.
• Results in Fire Department response and standby for cleanup.
• Is not cleaned up within one hour.
• Requires a respirator or special PPE for cleanup.
• Creates an IDLH atmosphere (>10% LEL, oxygen deficient).

How do I report a release?

Call 911 if emergency response is needed.

Any significant release or threatened release within the City of Los Angeles must be reported to:

• CalOES State Warning Center at (800) 852-7550, and
• LAFD CUPA using this form.

The report shall include, at a minimum, the following information:

• The exact location of the release or threatened release;
• The name of the person reporting the release or threatened release;
• The hazardous materials involved in the release or threatened release;
• An estimate of the quantity of hazardous materials involved; and
• If known, the potential hazards presented by the hazardous material involved.

If the release exceeds EPCRA reportable quantities, the facility must notify the National Response Center (NRC) at (800) 424-8802 and provide a detailed written follow-up as soon as practicable. Information about accidental chemical releases must be made available to the public.

If in doubt, report the release.

Additional CalOES Information