Environmental Emergency Plans

The Environmental Emergency Plans program applies to Penn State facilities and work units that store hazardous substances or oil at or above regulated threshold amounts.

This program applies to:

• Facilities that store 55 gallons or more of oil or petroleum products
• Facilities that store extremely hazardous substances at or above the Threshold Planning Quantity (TPQ)

Extremely hazardous substances and their TPQs are identified in the EPA “List of Lists.”
Work units should contact Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) for assistance determining whether their storage activities trigger Environmental Emergency Plan requirements.

Multiple types of environmental emergency plans may apply depending on the materials stored and the nature of operations. Work units must coordinate with EHS to determine which plan or plans are required.

Work Unit Responsibilities

• Determine whether hazardous substance or oil storage requires an Environmental Emergency Plan
• Maintain the emergency response equipment specified in the applicable plan(s)
• Follow plan-specific inspection, training, and documentation requirements

Supervisor Responsibilities

• Ensure the appropriate Environmental Emergency Plan is developed and implemented
• Submit a written annual review of the plan to EHS, identifying any required updates or changes
• Identify personnel who handle hazardous materials or oils and ensure they receive required training

Training Requirements

• Annual training is required for:
  • Personnel who handle hazardous materials or fuels/oils
  • Personnel who may be expected to assist with spill response or cleanup
• Training content and audience are defined in each applicable plan

Inspection and Audit Requirements

• Each Environmental Emergency Plan includes specific self‑inspection requirements
• Some plans also require annual self‑audits

Recordkeeping Requirements

• Work units must maintain plan‑specific records, which may include:
  • Training documentation
  • Inspection and audit records
  • Plan reviews and updates
  • EHS provides guidance on required documentation and record retention.

EPA Oil Spills Information

PA DEP Guidelines for the Development and Implementation of Environmental Emergency Response Plans

OSHA Emergency Action Plans

EHS Emergency Procedures - University emergency response guidance