EPA Issues Tougher Rules to Defend Against Chemical Accidents

The EPA on Friday finalized a rule that more firmly shields communities from chemical accidents.

The amendments to the Environmental Protection Agency’s risk management program include a new requirement for facilities in industries with high accident rates to “not just write a plan, but actually implement practicable, reliable safeguards” to help prevent or mitigate chemical releases and their consequences, Janet McCabe, the agency’s deputy administrator, told reporters.

The rule also emphasizes chemical facilities’ responsibility to evaluate the risks of climate change, which has increased the threat of extreme weather events that can trigger ...