The RMPs are designed to provide notice to the local community and emergency response agencies of the presence of larger quantities of these gases or chemicals. In addition, the RMP prompts users of these substances to identify practices that will prevent accidental releases in the first place. Producer delegates at last month's National Pork Industry Forum voted to oppose the EPA propane regulation. Several organizations, in addition to NPPC, oppose the imposition of the RMP rule and are working with EPA and Congress to secure an exemption for agricultural use of propane or an extension of the filing deadline. However, the current deadline continues to be June 21.
Many farmers have multiple, smaller tanks of propane for various uses at a site.
Tanks that are connected or are close enough to each other for both to be potentially involved in the same emergency, such as a fire or explosion, would be counted together. Program Two sites must complete a registration form, a more complete RMP, have written operating procedures, and a process for training employees who work with propane. Program Two sites must also conduct a Hazard Review every five years. Program Three sites are more likely to be industrial users such as chemical manufacturers, refineries or pulp mills. Determination of Program One or Two status is primarily dependent on the distance between the propane tanks and off-site receptors such as neighboring schools, houses, businesses and recreation areas.