Sampling the database and comparison of values to entry forms is not done at the national level since these source documents are retained by the State and EPA Regional offices. Latitude and longitude data are required only for TSD facilities. It is merely a function of the fact that most waste handlers are not required to submit that data. In addition, the latitude and longitude data on TSD facilities are considered to be extremely inaccurate according to the Program Office. A review of the 1997 data indicates that the accuracy varies by Region.
Records are more complete for TSDs, since they have annual or biannual inspections.
The database resides on EPA s internal mainframe computer system.