FAQ: Public Information

Introduction | Accidental Releases and Emissions | Emergency Notification | Public Information | Other ISO Questions

Contra Costa Health Services Hazardous Materials Programs performs periodic public outreach on the County's Industrial Safety Ordinance. A number of presentations have been performed that explained the requirements of the ordinance and its purpose to prevent accidental releases from petroleum refineries and chemical plants. Many questions have been raised during these presentations about the impacts from accidental releases and emissions, emergency notification, public information, and other topics. The following are some of the common questions asked during the presentations and the answers to these questions.

If a resident wants to advise the County of their concerns in Spanish, whom should they call?

They can call 925-313-6817 to reach an interpreter for Michael Kent, the County Hazardous Materials Ombudsman.

Is information on the Community Warning System and how to Shelter-in-Place available in Spanish?

Yes. It can be obtained from CAER at 888-972-2237 or by calling the number given above.

Is it possible for a presentation to be made where I work?

Free presentations on this topic are available upon request. If interested, contact Maria Duazo at 925-646-2286 or send an email to arpteam@hsd.cccounty.us

What is the environmental record of accomplishment of a refinery or chemical plant?

It is public record and can be reviewed at the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) Region 2, 1515 Clay Street, Suite 1400, Oakland, CA 94612 510-622-2300. Similarly, Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD), 939 Ellis Street, San Francisco 800-334-6367 can be contacted for air permit violation history.

Does every school have a NOAA radio?

No, only schools in the industrial corridor. Community Alert and Emergency Response (CAER) gave out 750 free radios to schools, hospitals, day care, and elder care facilities in the communities from Richmond to Oakley.

What is the frequency of testing the emergency notification sirens? What literature is available to notify the neighborhood of the sirens?

The sirens are tested monthly for ninety seconds on the first Wednesday of each month at 11 a.m. The sirens are also checked the other Wednesdays of the month where you may hear them for approximately fifteen seconds. Further information can be obtained from Randy Sawyer at 925-646-2870, the Accidental Release Prevention Programs Supervisor.

Is terrorism an issue?

Yes, since 9-11, industrial facilities have increased security at their plants. The California Accidental Release Prevention Program requires facilities to perform a security and vulnerability analysis and make the appropriate modifications to improve the overall security of the plant. In addition, the Coast Guard has been cognizant of water-borne terrorist activities and has worked with facilities to improve water-borne security.

Content provided by Contra Costa County Hazardous Materials Programs of Contra Costa Health Services.