There was also a major chemical release in Institute, West Virginia, in 1985 which caused more than 100 people to be hospitalized and raised American's awareness that this kind of accident is possible in the United States. SERC's are made up of agencies and sometimes industry and public representatives to develop coordinated responses to emergencies. LEPC's are required to have representatives from 15 disciplines or responsibilities in the community, including health, fire, industry, the general public, and public safety employees. South Carolina has 46 LEPC's, one in each county. With this information, the SERC and LEPC's are required to plan for emergencies to ensure that when an accidental release occurs, the local responders will be able to take quick, effective actions to protect public health and the environment.
More emphasis needs to be placed on the prevention of accidents.
Hotline - Publicly accessible. This rule is aimed at preventing accidental releases and reducing the severity of those releases that do occur. Frequently Asked Questions Issued July 1997, updated periodically. Accidental Release Prevention Factsheet Issued May 1996. Factsheet Issued May 1996.