United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Information Resources
Management
(PM-211D)
EPA 220-B-92-029
PB93-128304
January 1993
X-/EPA
Superfund Information
Access Series:
DATABASES AND
ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS
Hazardous Waste Superfund Collection
Printed on Recycled Paper
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Hazardous Waste Superfund Collection
Databases
and
Electronic Systems
January 1993
Information Access Branch, PM-211D
Information Management and Services Division
Office of Information Resources Management
Office of Administration and Resources Management
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Room 2904
401M Street, S.W.
Washington, DC 20460
(202) 260-5934
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency i
Region 5, Library (PI
77 V.'rst J?ckscr ... . '::,( Floor
Chicago, IL 6GC.>. ..L--j
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HAZARDOUS WASTE SUPERFUND COLLECTION AND DATABASE
The Hazardous Waste Superfund Collection (HWSFC) is
a special EPA Headquarters Library Collection on the subject
of hazardous waste. Access to the Collection is enhanced by
a Database (HWSFD) of bibliographic entries which
correspond to each item in the Collection. The EPA
Information Access Branch is responsible for the contents
and maintenance of the Collection and Database.
ACCESS
GOALS
The Collection and Database:
Provide a unified resource of major hazardous waste
reports, books and journals available through the EPA
Library Network.
Provide current information to assist EPA staff in making
timely and effective policy and regulatory policy decisions.
Assist in the transfer of hazardous waste information
from the EPA to the states as part of the Agency's technology
transfer effort.
CONTENTS
Continually growing, the Collection contains books and
journals, legislation and regulations, reports from Federal
agencies. Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response
(OSWER) policy and guidance directives and EPA reports
from selected program offices.
The Database mirrors the contents of the Collection. A
user can search the Database with little or no computer
experience.
The Hazardous Waste Superfund Collection is available
for use in the EPA Headquarters Library. Selected
documents from the Collection are distributed to the 10 EPA
Regional libraries and laboratories in Ada, OK; Cincinnati,
OH; Edison, NJ; Las Vegas, NV; Research Triangle Park, NC
and the National Enforcement Investigations Center (NEIC)
in Denver, CO.
The Database is updated quarterly and reflects ongoing
acquisitions to the Collection.
The Database is available to the public through the EPA
Online Library System (OLS) which resides on the EPA
mainframe. To access it, the user will need a computer,
modem and telecommunications software. The dial in
number is (919) 549-0720. The parameters are as follows:
300-9600 baud rate
7 bits
1 stop bit
even parity
At the first prompt, the user types F to access "EPA OLS".
The user then follows the prompts.
To log off, the user types Q and follows the prompts.
For user support, call: (800) 334-2405. For a user manual to
OLS, call (919) 541-2777.
A PC version of the Database can be used at the HQ
Hazardous Waste Superfund Collection Reference area. It is
also on display at EPA's new Public Information Center.
For more information about the PC version call:
Felice Sacks (contractor)
Head Librarian of the HWSFC
(202) 260-3021
ii
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CONTENTS
PAGE
Introduction v
Quick Reference Guide vii
DATABASES AND ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS
ATTIC 1
BRS 2
CERCUS 4
CLU-IN Bulletin Board 6
Docket 7
EDRS 8
RNDS 9
HWSFD Database 11
IRIS 13
OHMTADS 15
ORD Bulletin Board 17
PIES 18
RCRIS 19
RODS Database 21
RoLDatabase 22
RREL Databases 24
Hi
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CONTENTS (continued)
PAGE
SETS 25
SR1S 27
TRI 28
VISITT 30
APPENDIX
General Bibliography A-l
IV
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INTRODUCTION
T
his publication is intended as a guide for accessing databases and electronic
systems produced or sponsored by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
which contain information on the Superfund program or hazardous waste. It is
designed for public and private sector professionals working in the Superfund
program or related activities who need quick, timely access to pertinent data.
Each entry in Superfund Information Access Series: Databases and Electronic Systems
provides a general description of the system including an overview, content, access, special
features and EPA or commercial contacts.
Databases and Electronic Systems does not purport to be all inclusive on the subject of
hazardous waste databases. A general bibliography in the Appendix leads the reader to
information on other EPA databases as well as commercial databases covering hazardous
waste topics.
For further information about this document or the Hazardous Waste Superfund
Collection, contact the following librarians of the Hazardous Waste Superfund Collection:
Felice Sacks, (contractor), Head Librarian, or Fabienne McGovern (contractor), Reference
Librarian at 202/260-5934. The address is U.S. EPA Headquarters Library, Room 2904, Mail
Code PM-211A, 401 M Street, SW, Washington, DC 20460.
This document is part of a series entitled Superfund Information Access Series. The series is a
comprehensive guide to information resources available at the Environmental Protection Agency on
the subject of the Superfund program and related hazardous waste topics. The individual
publications comprising the series are as follows:
Guide to Key Documents and Information Sources - describes individual document types
forming the core of the Hazardous Waste Superfund Collection and categorizes the
Collection according to reference type and subtopics. Provides information on obtaining
publications.
Journals - an annotated guide to journals and other serials covering hazardous waste
topics.
Databases and Electronic Systems - fact sheets on databases and bulletin board systems
supported by EPA and containing data related to hazardous waste.
Hazardous Waste Superfund Database Users Manual - a guide for using the online and PC
versions of the Hazardous Waste Superfund Database.
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Hazardous Waste Superfund Database Thesaurus - a keyword guide for terms used to search
the Hazardous Waste Superfund Database.
Legislation and Regulations - information about legislative and regulatory sources within
the Collection.
Building a Hazardous Waste Collection - a "how to" book on acquiring basic items for a
hazardous waste collection.
Reference herein to any specific commercial publisher or service does not constitute or imply
endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the EPA. M
vi
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QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE
DATABASE
PRIMARY DATA
ATTIC
BRS
CERCLIS
CLU-IN Bulletin Board
Civil Enforcement Docket
ECLIPS
EDRS
FINDS
IRIS
OHMTADS
ORD Bulletin Board
PIES
RCRIS
RODS Database
RREL Databases
SETS
SRIS
TRI
VISITT
Treatability studies
Waste generation, management, &
capacity information for treatment, storage &
disposal facilities & large quantity generators
Superfund site information
Innovative cleanup technologies
Civil judicial enforcement
Hazardous chemicals
Enforcement related documents
Treatment, storage & disposal facilities
Risk assessment
Hazardous substance information
Research and technical information
Pollution prevention
Treatment, storage & disposal facilities
Records of Decision (Superfund)
Treatability studies, case studies, response
Potentially responsible parties (Superfund)
Superfund audits
Toxic releases
Innovative technology vendors
VII
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DATABASES & ELECTRONIC
Systems
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ALTERNATIVE TREATMENT TECHNOLOGY INFORMATION CENTER (ATTIC)
Overview
The Alternative Treatment Technology Information Center (ATTIC) provides data and
technical information on innovative treatment technologies for the cleanup of hazardous
waste. The information in the system contains a wide variety of data from Federal, State
and private sector sources. It is managed by EPA's Risk Reduction Engineering Laboratory
(RREL), Edison, NJ.
Contents
The ATTIC system is a collection of hazardous waste databases that are accessed through a
computerized bulletin board system (BBS). The BBS features news items, bulletins, and
special interest conferences - such as the Bioremediation Special Interest Group. It also
features a message board that enables users to request advice from other users, as well as
pose questions to the System Operator. ATTIC users can access several databases
including the ATTIC Database, which contains over 2,500 records dealing with alternative
and innovative technologies for hazardous waste treatment; and the RREL Treatability
Database, which provides data on characteristics and treatability of a wide variety of
contaminants.
Information from these sources consists of treatability information, case histories, transport
and fate data, and other technical information. Also included are the abstracts of
Superfund Innovative Technology Evaluation (SITE) reports, many Records of Decisions
(RODs), State agency reports, international programs, and industry studies. Abstracts of
reports can be downloaded from the system. Copies of complete reports are available on
request.
Access
ATTIC is free of charge to all members of the Federal, State and private sectors involved in
site remediation. ATTIC can be accessed directly by users with a personal computer and a
modem. In addition, users can request an ATTIC search by phoning the ATTIC System
Operator. Communication/modem parameters: 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no parity, full
duplex. (Users register online the first time they access ATTIC). A User's Manual is
available and may be obtained by calling the ATTIC System Operator or leaving a message
on the bulletin board.
Contacts
ATTIC System Operator (Voice Line) 301/670-6294
Online ATTIC Computer Access (2400 baud) 301 /670-3808
Online ATTIC Computer Access (9600 baud) 301 /670-3813
Joyce Perdek (EPA), Project Manager 908/321-4380
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BIENNIAL REPORTING SYSTEM (BRS)
Overview
Sponsored by the Office of Solid Waste, the Biennial Reporting System (BRS) is a national
system that collects data on the generation, management, and minimisation of hazardous
waste. These data allow EPA to: (1) describe the demographics of arid monitor trends in
hazardous waste generation, management, and minimization and (2) assess the impact of
its regulatory decisions. Also, the data are used by States in the development of Capacity
Plans.
Contents
BRS captures detailed data on the generation of hazardous waste from large quantity
generators as well as data on waste management practices from treatment, storage, and
disposal (TSD) facilities.
It provides data on the: (1) current regulatory status of hazardous waste generators and
TSD facilities; (2) chemical composition and physical form of hazardous wastes; (3)
quantities of particular hazardous wastes generated, and methods later applied for
treatment and disposal; (4) efforts by generators to implement waste minimization
programs and results achieved in reducing the volume and toxitity of hazardous wastes
generated and processed; and (5) available capacity of hazardous waste TSD facilities.
Information is submitted by the regulated community to States or Regions and is uploaded
to the national system every two years.
Access
The system is available on EPA's mainframe and access is restricted to EPA personnel and
the States. Authorized personnel may contact John Fogarty (below) to obtain BRS access. (A
User's Guide, Training Manual and Data Element Dictionary are available. Call the Hotline for
more information). National Biennial Reports from previous years are available to the public
in hard copy and microfiche from the National Technical Information Service (NTIS) by
calling: 800/553-NTIS or 703/487-4650. The public may also request information from the
database as a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request by writing or sending a fax to:
Ms. Jeralene Green
U.S. EPA, National FOIA Office (A-101)
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
FAX: 202/252-0295
(Note: FOIA fee schedules apply).
Contacts
Hotline 800/876-0352
John Fogarty (EPA), BRS Section Chief 202/260-4697
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Commercial Sources
National Technical Information Service 800/553-NTIS; 703/487-4650
5285 Port Royal Road
Springfield, VA 22161
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COMPREHENSIVE ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSE, COMPENSATION, AND LIABILITY
INFORMATION SYSTEM (CERCLIS)
Overview
The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Information
System (CERCLIS) contains information on potential hazardous waste sites that have been
reported to the EPA by States, municipalities, private companies, and private persons
pursuant to § 103 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and
Liability Act (CERCLA) 1980, as amended. The database - managed by the Office of
Emergency and Remedial Response is a tracking vehicle for events related to
approximately 37,000 reported sites. EPA uses CERCLIS information to report Superfund
accomplishments to Congress and the public, and to help Regional and Headquarters
managers evaluate the status and progess of site cleanup actions.
Contents
The database consists of the following data:
Name and alias names of the location
Location of the site:
latitude and longitude
state, county, municipality
congressional district
address
Classification of the site including incident type
Discovery, Preliminary Assessments, Site Inspections, Removals
Contact names
Indicators or flags for:
National Priority List (NPL) status
Federal Facility
Site ownership
No further action
Final and proposed NPL sites
Remedial Information such as: Remedial Investigation Feasibility Studies,
Design and Remedial Actions
In addition, the database contains enforcement, removal, financial, event-specific and
chemical/technical information as well as remediation targets and accomplishments. Data
is obtained by Regional managers receiving information from site managers. The Regions
upload the data regularly into CERCLIS.
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Access
The database is available on EPA's mainframe for EPA staff and its partners (States,
contractors, and grantees). Certain commercial sources provide access to nonsensitive data
contained in the database.
For EPA access, users should first obtain a user ID for the EPA mainframe by contacting the
National Data Processing Division. To obtain access to CERCLIS, the user must contact
Jalania Ellis, CERCLIS Database Manager ( see below).
LAN management products are also available to EPA staff. They are:
WasteLAN - a two-way communication tool between the Regions and CERCLIS.
(CleanLAN is a WasteLAN clone recording events related to the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers).
INSITE - extracts information from CERCLIS monthly and creates reports for top
managers on Superfund progress. These reports then become integrated into the system.
For the public, certain features of the database are available through the National Technical
Information Service (NTIS). However, most of the information is intended for EPA internal
use. Private individuals may obtain certain information from the database through a
Freedom of Information Act request (FOIA) (see p. 20).
Contacts
Maja Lee (EPA), 703/603-8904
CERCLIS Project Manager
Jalania Ellis (EPA), 703/603-8884
CERCLIS Database Manager
Commercial Sources
(Other services may also be available)
National Technical Information Service 800/553-NTIS; 703/487-4650
5285 Port Royal Road
Springfield, VA 22161
(Provides a magnetic tape updated quarterly)
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CLU-IN BULLETIN BOARD
Overview
The Cleanup Information Bulletin Board System (CLU-IN) is designed for hazardous waste
cleanup professionals and other technical experts for use in finding information about
innovative technologies, consulting with one another online, and accessing related
databases. It is managed by the Technology Innovation Office of the Office of Solid Waste
and Emergency Response.
Contents
CLU-IN provides the following features:
Electronic message capabilities
Bulletins that can be read online (such as summaries of Federal Register notices
on hazardous waste, descriptions of EPA documents and training programs,
directories of EPA experts on hazardous waste cleanup, the OERR Infoline
newsletter and other publications prepared by the Hazardous
Waste Superf und Collection at Headquarters Library)
Files that can be downloaded and used on the user's own computer
Online databases that can be searched on CLU-IN
Access
The system is accessible to Federal, State and private sector audiences (no charge except for
telecommunication charges). It is accessible to anyone with a computer, modem, phone line
and telecommunications software (such as CrossTalk, Procomm, or SmartCom). Modem
dial in: 301/589-8366. Parameters: 8 data bits,l stop bit, no parity, 1200/2400 baud.
Contacts
Hotline: System Operator 301/589-8368
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ENFORCEMENT DOCKET (DOCKET)
Overview
All information related to civil judicial enforcement activity, including case information,
facility information, and defendant information is maintained in this system known also as
DOCKET. The system in addition tracks administrative enforcement cases. It is sponsored
by the Office of Enforcement.
Contents
Attorneys in the Regions provide information to the system. Data includes all case, facility
and defendant information. Case information consists of data such as case name, date
filed, date concluded, law/regulations violated and penalty information. Facility
information comprises data related to the facility including address and EPA identification
number. The defendant information includes data on all the defendants associated with
the case.
Access
DOCKET is available on EPA's mainframe for EPA staff only. EPA users should apply to
Merle Miller (below) for access to DOCKET. For the public, diskettes containing portions
of the database that are nonsensitive can be purchased through the National Technical
Information Service (NTIS) by calling 800/553-NTIS or 703/487-4650.
Contacts
Merle Miller (EPA), Manager 202/260-2614
Commercial Sources
National Technical Information Service 800/553-NTIS; 703/487-4650
5285 Port Royal Road
Springfield, VA 22161
(2 High-density diskettes, 51/4 inch, provided on a quarterly subscription basis. PB91-591970KPJ
(US: $320; Foreign: $640). Individual orders are PB91-591971. Available in hard copy as
PB91-921700KPJ; quarterly subscription, $230).
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ENFORCEMENT DOCUMENT RETRIEVAL SYSTEM (EDRS)
Overview
The EPA's Enforcement Document Retrieval System (EDRS) is a computerized search and
retrieval system containing the full text of EPA enforcement documents. It is maintained by
the Office of Enforcement (OE). The system is located on the NCC-IBM 3090 in Research
Triangle Park, NC. Access may be obtained through any personal computer with a modem
and communications package or a full-screen terminal hardwired to the NCC-IBM.
Documents can be searched by issue date, title, environmental law statute or a specific
word.
Contents
EDRS is a computerized library of documents considered pertinent to the Agency's
enforcement activities. The Program areas include Air, Water, Hazardous Waste and
Pesticides/Toxic Substances. Documents are categorized into four groups:
Policy/procedures
Administrative enforcement
Judicial action
Model forms and sample documents
The following TYPES of documents are included in the above categories:
Enforcement policy compendia, guidance manuals and docket procedures
Administrative decisions, judicial briefs and pleadings
Civil judicial consent decrees, defensive litigation and decisions
Program enforcement documents not contained in the above compendia
Access
EDRS is managed at EPA Headquarters and is available to: EPA staff, Department of
Justice staff and State enforcement staff. Merle Miller (below) is the contact for training on
the system. Interested parties should obtain a mainframe user ID from their ADP
Coordinator for access to EDRS.
Contacts
Merle Miller (EPA), Manager 202/260-2614
The EDRS Infosource newsletter is available to the above users by calling EDRS contractor
staff at 703/538-7825. (Note: EDRS contractor staff manage other related databases).
8
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FACILITIES INDEX DATA SYSTEM (FINDS)
Overview
The Facilities Index Data System (FINDS) contains entries for approximately 600,000 sites
or facilities that are regulated by EPA under various statutes including: RCRA, the Clean
Water Act, the Clean Air Act, TSCA and FIFRA. While used as a computerized inventory,
the program primarily serves as a mechanism for assigning a unique EPA ID number to
these facilities. FINDS contains basic facility information, supports cross-media analysis of
facilities, and assists regulatory and enforcement action such as permitting, compliance and
inspection, by "pointing" to programs that regulate a facility.
Contents
Each entry typically contains the following information:
Site name
Geographic locators (street address, city, county, ZIP code, latitude and longitude,
congressional district)
Codes classifying the site (i.e., SIC code)
List of other EPA and state databases containing information about the site,
including the reference numbers used to retrieve the pertinent records from
other databases.
Users can seek site-specific information by entering the site name or EPA identifier but
also can find information about all the sites in a given area by searching on ZIP code or city
name. The user reviews the retrieved records to see what other sources of information
about a given site should be consulted. Public users seeking certain information from these
databases may need to complete appropriate Freedom of Information Act procedures. In
addition, EPA users have access to corporate financial information integrated into the
database.
FINDS answers such questions as: What is a facility's current address? Which programs
have more information about the facility? How many facilities are regulated under RCRA?
Access
The database is maintained on EPA's mainframe and can be accessed by EPA staffers using
equipment that emulates a 3270 computer. Access is arranged by calling the Hotline
number below or the Database Administrator. Public access is through commercial sources
such as the National Technical Information Service (NTIS), Chemical Information Systems,
Inc. (CIS) and other private sources.
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FACILITIES INDEX DATA SYSTEM (FINDS) (continued)
Contacts
The system is operated by the Office of Information Resources Management (OIRM),
Program Systems Division, with data entry occurring at the EPA Regions.
Hotline 800/424-9067
Joe Anderson (EPA), 703/235-5581
FINDS System Manager
Dan Parker (EPA), 703/235-5584
FINDS Operation Manager
Daisy S. Berlingeri (EPA) 703/235-5576
FINDS Data Manager
Commercial Sources
The public can obtain online access through private companies or purchase a tape product
for the mainframe through NTIS.
Chemical Information Systems, Inc. 800/CIS-USER; 301 /321-8440
7215 York Road
Baltimore, MD 21212
National Technical Information Service 800/553-NTIS; 703/487-4650
5285 Port Royal Road
Springfield, VA 22161
Tape is issued quarterly in the form of data file-tape for the IBM 3090
10
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HAZARDOUS WASTE SUPERFUND DATABASE (HWSFD)
Overview
The Hazardous Waste Superfund Database (HWSFD) is a database of bibliographic entries
which corresponds to each item in the Hazardous Waste Superfund Collection at EPA's
Headquarters Library. The EPA Headquarters Library is responsible for the contents and
maintenance of the Collection and Database which together provide a unified resource of
major hazardous waste reports, books and journals and other related literature.
Contents
The HWSFD records abstracts of books, legislative and regulatory materials, reports from
Federal agencies, Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response (OSWER) policy and
guidance directives, Records of Decision, and EPA reports from selected program offices.
It is updated quarterly. A user can search the HWSFD with little or no computer
experience. Entries can be searched by the following categories:
Keywords
Title
EPA program office
Date
Author
Abstract
Access
The HWSFD is available to EPA staff and partners through the EPA Online Library System
(OLS) which resides on the EPA mainframe. Users must register with the National Data
Processing Division for access to the mainframe. A version of the HWSFD is also available
to the public through the mainframe. To access it, the user will need a computer, modem
and telecommunications software. The dial in number is 919/549-0720. The parameters
are as follows: 300-9600 baud, 7 bits, 1 stop bit, even parity.
At the first prompt, the user types F to access OLS and follows the prompts.
To log off, me user types Q and follows the prompts.
For user support, call 800/334-2405. For a user's manual to OLS, call 919/541-2777.
A PC version of the database can be used at the Hazardous Waste Superfund Collection
reference section at EPA's Headquarters Library. For more information, call 202/260-5934.
11
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HAZARDOUS WASTE SUPERFUND DATABASE (HWSFD)(continued)
Contacts
Jonda Byrd (EPA), 513/569-7183
Project Officer
Felice Sacks (contractor), 202/260-3021
Manager, HWSFD
12
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INTEGRATED RISK INFORMATION SYSTEM (IRIS)
Overview
IRIS is an online database of chemical-specific risk information on the relationship between
chemical exposure and estimated human health effects. It presents a summary of
information on chemical hazard identification and dose-response assessment, and provides
quantitative risk values and qualitative health effects information. It reflects the EPA
consensus opinion on potential adverse and chronic human health effects related to
chemical hazard identification and dose-response assessment.
IRIS also serves as a pointer system to more detailed data contained in supporting scientific
studies. It is maintained by the Environmental Criteria and Assessment Office (ECAO) of
the Office of Health and Environmental Assessment (OHEA).
Contents
Updated monthly, IRIS includes approximately 500 chemicals and over 600 chemical risk
summaries. A complete description of the database is contained in the Federal Register at
53 FR 20162, June 2,1988. IRIS contains information on hazard identification and dose
response assessment, the first 2 steps in EPA's adopted 4 step chemical risk assessment
process, as recommended by the National Academy of Sciences. IRIS data is arranged in
the following broad categories:
Noncarcinogenic Assessment - Lifetime Exposure
Carcinogenicity Assessment - Lifetime Exposure
Drinking Water Health Advisories/Acute Toxicity
EPA Exposure Standards and Regulations
References
Substance Identification/Use
Chemical & Physical Properties
Access
IRIS may be accessed by EPA staffers through their PCs or LAN with monthly updating via
the mainframe. Disks are available for EPA staff from the ECAO Coordinator. Public
availability is through the National Library of Medicine's (NLM) Toxicology Network
(TOXNET), and the National Technical Information Service.
13
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INTEGRATED RISK INFORMATION SYSTEM |IR!S)(continued)
Contacts
IRIS User Support 513/569-7254
Patricia Daunt (EPA), 513/569-7596
Database Manager
IRISfECAO Coordinators:
Linda Tuxen (EPA) 202/260-5949
Jacqueline Patterson (EPA) 513/569-7574
Commercial Sources
TOXNET 301/496-6531
National Library of Medicine
IRIS Representative
Specialized Information Services
8600 Rockville Pike
Bethesda, MD 20894
National Technical Information Service 800/553-NTIS; 703/487-4650
5285 Port Royal Road
Springfield, VA 22161
Data disks (ASCII format) of IRIS can be purchased.
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OIL AND HAZARDOUS MATERIAL TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE DATA SYSTEM (OHMTADS)
Overview
OHMTADS is a database system which contains information - chemical properties,
regulatory information, safety data, toxicity data, response information on hazardous
substances. It was developed to aid EPA's Emergency Response Division in responding to
oil and hazardous substance emergencies.
Contents
OHMTADS includes chemical identification information, such as chemical name, trade
name, Chemical Abstract Service (CAS) number, and physical properties. It also contains
lists of regulations covering production, use or distribution of chemicals. OHMTADS also
contains data relating to cleanup efforts, such as: toxicity to humans, flora and fauna,
flashpoint reactions with other substances, protective equipment, transportation and
disposal information and methods of evacuation.
Access
The database can be accessed through five means all of which have been contracted out
to vendors: online, diskette, microfilm, magnetic tape and CD-ROM. All users must
contact the vendors listed below.
Contacts
Rich Norris (EPA), Manager 703/603-8760
Commercial Sources
For online access and diskettes:
Chemical Information Systems, Inc. 800/CIS-USER; 301 /321-8440
7215 York Road
Baltimore, MD 21212
For microfilm and magnetic tape:
National Technical Information Service 800/553-NTIS; 703/487-4650
5285 Port Royal Road
Springfield, VA 22161
15
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OIL AND HAZARDOUS /MATERIAL TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE DATA SYSTEM (OHMTADS)
(continued)
For CD-ROM:
Micromedex, Inc. 800/525-9083
600 Grant Street
Denver, CO 80203-3527
Silver Platter Information 617/969-2332
1 Newton Executive Park
Newton Lower Falls, MA 02162
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ORD BULLETIN BOARD
Overview
The Office of Research and Development's Bulletin Board System (ORD BBS or Board) is an
electronic system designed to facilitate the exchange of technical information and ORD
products among EPA Headquarters, laboratory and Regional staff and contractors; States;
and other Federal agencies, universities, industry and the public.
Contents
The Board offers:
an electronic message system
brief bulletins with information about ORD products and activities
files for downloading
participation in conferences (subject-oriented)
online database for identifying ORD publications (ORD Bibliographic Database
containing ORD publications since 1973)
options for ordering ORD publications
Information that can be accessed includes research on innovative technologies and other
hazardous waste management topics that are related to projects sponsored by ORD.
Access
The Board is accessible to Federal, State and private sector audiences (no charge except for
telecommunication charges). It is open to anyone who has a computer, modem, telephone
line and telecommunications software package. The setup parameters are: 1200 or 2400
baud, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no parity, vtlOO emulation. The dialing number is
15135697610.
Contacts
Hotline 513/569-7272
Call for the ORD BBS User's Manual EPA/600/M-90/012 or order it online.
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POLLUTION PREVENTION INFORMATION EXCHANGE SYSTEM (PIES)
Overview
Designed to provide and promote the free exchange of information on pollution prevention
(technical, policy, programmatic, legislative and financial) to the public and private sector,
the Pollution Prevention Information Exchange System (PIES) is an interactive
communication network that can be accessed by anyone with a PC-modem-telephone
linkage. It was established in 1989 by the Office of Research & Development and the Office
of Pollution Prevention. PIES is operated for EPA by Science Applications International
Corporation (SAIC) in Falls Church, Virginia. (PIES was formerly named EIES).
Contents
The PIES network consists of the following components:
Bulletins and files which can be downloaded to disk
Databases (see below)
Message Center for asking and answering questions
On-Line Repository for ordering documents (planned for the future)
Mini-exchanges or specialized forums dedicated to discrete topic areas. These are small
electronic bulletin boards allowing a user to enter and receive messages, view bulletins and
access a database on a single topic. Current examples are: regional, State and local
government activities; research programs and projects; grants progress; and a tie to the
International Cleaner Production Information Clearinghouse sponsored by the UN
Environmental Programme Industry and Environment Office.
Databases: The databases include a calendar listing national and international conferences
and training seminars; industry case studies; directory of Federal and State contacts to
answer technical/policy questions; summaries of activities in the public and private sector
including past and present grants and projects, training, awards and outreach activities;
and abstracted publications.
Access
The system is accessible to Federal, State and private sector audiences (no charge except for
telecommunication charges). It can be accessed by anyone by dialing through a modem
(703/506-1025) or through Telenet by dialing the local Telenet access number. At the @
prompt, the Telenet user types "c 20256131" (without the quotes).
Contacts
PPIC Technical Support Hotline 703/821-4800
Small Business Ombudsman Hotline 800/368-5888
Myles Morse (EPA), Project Manager 202/260-3161
Beth Anderson (EPA), Coordinator 202/260-2602
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RESOURCE CONSERVATION AND RECOVERY INFORMATION SYSTEM (RCRIS)
Overview
Managed by the Office of Solid Waste, RCRIS maintains information on facilities that are
regulated under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). This database
provides for automated maintenance of permit-processing events and compliance
monitoring as well as enforcement activities. Data is gathered from EPA forms
(Notification of Regulated Waste Activity, EPA Form 8700-12; Appplication for a
Hazardous Waste Permit-Part A, EPA Form 8700-23). The database contains information
on approximately 4,300 treatment, storage and disposal facilities, 19,700 transporters and
230,600 large and small quantity generators.
Contents
Data updated monthly includes the following:
Type of Facility
Facility name
EPA Identification number
Facility address
Owner and operator information
Facility contact name and phone number
RCRA waste codes handled
Permit process codes
Permit issuance data and closure action events
Enforcement and compliance information
Access
RCRIS is available on the EPA mainframe to EPA staff and the States. Users must first
register with the National Data Processing Division for access to the mainframe. To obtain
access to RCRIS, users must contact the RCRIS National Oversight Database Administrator
(below). For public access, the National Technical Information Service (NTIS) sells
information from the system except for sensitive enforcement data. In addition, LEXIS/
NEXIS, an online database produced by Mead Data Central, Inc. has selected portions of
RCRIS in its Environmental Library.
Additionally, the Office of Solid Waste (OSW) provides numerous reports developed over
the years in response to requests filed under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
Others were prepared to aid OSW in examining facets of the regulated community that is
subject to the requirements of RCRA. These reports are listed in a catalog, Hazardous
Waste FOIA Reports, which is available by calling Lisa Hearns, FOIA Coordinator, at 202/
260-3393. To request reports from the catalog, the public must complete a form in the
catalog and mail or fax it to:
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RESOURCE CONSERVATION AND RECOVERY INFORMATION SYSTEM (RCRIS)
(continued)
Ms. Jeralene Green
U.S. EPA
National FOIA Office (A-101)
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
FAX: 202/252-0295
Note: FOIA fee schedules apply.
Contacts
Hotline 800/767-RCRI
RCRIS National Oversight Database
Administrator 202/260-4697
Commercial Sources
LEXE/NEXIS 800/543-6862
Mead Data Central, Inc. 513/859-1608
9443 Springboro Pike, P.O. Box 933
Dayton, OH 45401
National Technical Information Service 800/553-NTIS; 703/487-4650
5285 Port Royal Road
Springfield, VA 22161
PB91-592000 (Data file-tape subscription) Issued quarterly
PB91-592001 (Data file-tape on demand)
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RECORDS OF DECISION SYSTEM (RODS)
Overview
A Record of Decision (ROD) is a document describing EPA's planned course of action to
dean up a Superfund site listed on the National Priorities List (NPL). Each ROD is the
official record of EPA's remedy selection for the site. The Records of Decision System
(RODS) database, housed on EPA's mainframe and maintained by Computer Science
Corporation for the Hazardous Site Control Division, provides information on all RODs
published since the inception of the Superfund program. A complete listing of RODs
prepared (but not necessarily distributed) to date, however, will be found in the CERCLIS
database. (See pp. 4-5).
Contents
The database is comprised of the full text of each ROD, an abstract, and specific
information contained in various fields, such as: site name, alias name, ROD date, region,
location, ROD ID, site ID, keywords, contaminated media, key contaminants, selected
remedy, and figures. Graphics, tables and page numbers are not included. Note: cost
information is in the abstracted field. This field is divided into: 1) an overview; 2) the remedy;
and 3) the goals.
Access
EPA personnel must obtain a user ID through the National Data Processing Division to
access the mainframe. State and local government personnel may be able to obtain direct
access to the database as well. To access RODS, potential users must contact Jalania Ellis,
Database Manager (see below). EPA users can print data by arranging a box and bin
number through the Washington Information Center (WIC).
Direct access to the database is not available to the general public. However, the public
may access information from it by calling the RODS Database Manager (see below) or by
dialing up ATTIC. (See p. I). (Hard copies of the RODs, are available for viewing at the EPA
Headquarters Library and Regional libraries. In addition, the National Technical Information
Service (NTIS) sells these documents).
Contacts
Maja Lee (EPA), 703/603-8904
RODS Project Manager
Jalania Ellis (EPA), 703/603-8884
RODS Database Manager
An intermittent bulletin entitled Superfund Records of Decision Update provides information on
current RODs (9200.5-2161). To order it, call the RCRA/Superfund Hotline at 703/920-9810 or
800/424-9346.
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REGISTER OF LISTS (RoL)
Overview
Managed by the Information Policy Branch (IPB) of the Office of Policy, Planning and
Evaluation (OPPE), RoL is a database that provides information on lists of regulated
chemical substances that EPA maintains. Its purpose is to present minimal factual data on
the specific chemical and point to other sources of information. Presently it contains over
3,300 chemicals and covers 31 EPA regulatory lists. Absence of a chemical or other
substance from this database does not necessarily mean that it is not regulated by EPA.
Contents
Data for each chemical includes:
List Data Substance Data
Name of Agency list
Program offices
Regulatory origin
List description
List manager
Citations
Chemical name
CAS number
Other chemical names
Regulatory/origin/Agency list(s)
Waste streams
Reportable quantity
Threshold planning quantity
IRIS listing (see pp. 16-17)
The unique features of this database are the following:
Information is linked from offices to lists to chemicals
Components of waste streams or chemical categories can be found
Synonyms of a chemical name can be retrieved
Searches are conducted on the chemical name and all synonyms
Through a query system lists can be compared to determine:
1) all chemicals in the union of lists selected
2) those chemicals in list 1 but not in list 2
3) chemicals common to all chosen lists
References are cited to the IRIS database
Although the database is primarily designed for searching, simple reports can be generated
at any point. Such reports are most useful as the result of using the query feature of the
database. The query allows the user to retrieve all chemicals meeting certain categories of
information into a set (or list) that can then be printed.
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Access
RoL is available to EPA staff for use on most PCs. Updates are issued quarterly. For more
information, call the contacts below.
Contacts
Jim Daley (EPA), RoL Manager 202/260-2743
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RREL DATABASES
Overview
The following databases are produced by EPA's Risk Reduction Engineering Laboratory
(RREL). They address a range of topics from treatability data to response actions and case
studies. These systems are accessible to the public as indicated.
RREL Treatability Database
The purpose of this system is to compile data on the treatability of specific organic and
inorganic compounds in all types of waters and wastewaters as well as in soil, sludges and
sediments. Users (at no charge) can request diskettes containing the database for PC use,
or access it through the Alternative Treatment Technology Information Center (ATTIC)
(seep.l).
Contacts
Glenn Shaul (EPA), Manager 513/569-7408
COUS (Computerized On-Line Information System)
COLJS is a consolidation of several computerized databases developed by RREL and
includes: 1) Case History File of case studies about corrective actions on leaking
underground storage tanks, hazardous waste site removal and remedial actions, and oil or
hazardous material spill responses; 2) Library Search System containing abstracts of
documents in the RREL library collection which document oil and hazardous materials
spills, problems with underground storage tanks, personnel protection, stormwater issues,
incineration, soil washing, and other Superfund related activities; 3) SITE system
containing reports on completed Superfund Innovative Technology Evaluation Program
projects; and the 4) RREL Treatability Database (see above).
Users dial into the system via modem on a microcomputer. The number is 19085484636.
Parameters are: 1200-2400 baud, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no parity.
Contacts
System Operator 908/906-6851
Robert Hillger (EPA), Project Manager 908/321-6639
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SITE ENFORCEMENT TRACKING SYSTEM (SETS)
Overview
SETS consists of information on the identity of potentially responsible parties (PRP)
associated with a particular Superfund site (which includes sites on the National Priorities
List (NPL) and sites not on the NPL). The data is gathered from a notice letter that EPA
sends to such parties as notification of the potential liability which they may have incurred
with respect to the site. This information has been extracted to form data files sold by the
National Technical Information Service (NTIS).
Contents
The data includes the PRP name and address, a contact person for the company/
individual, the date the general or special notice was issued, and the related Superfund site
name and identification number. The site can be a National Priorities List (NPL) site or a
non-NPL site. EPA created SETS to track PRP identification and therefore the data
contained therein does not address other administrative information related to that
tracking. Also, the lists contained in SETS represent EPA's preliminary findings on PRP
identification. The data can be obtained according to Region or on a national basis.
Access
EPA staffers can contact Alicia Corley (below) about the data. The public can purchase it
through the National Technical Information Service (NTIS). The national version is on file-
tape for the IBM 3090 and on diskette for a microcomputer; the individual regional data is
on a diskette for a microcomputer. Additionally, LEXIS/NEXIS, an online database
produced by Mead Data Central, Inc. has selected portions of PRP information in its
Environmental Library.
Note: Names and addresses of potentially responsible parties associated with NPL sites are
also available to the public through the CERCLIS database offered by the Chemical
Information System (CIS). (See below and pp. 4-5).
Contacts
Alicia Corley (EPA), SETS Manager 202/260-8717
Commercial Sources
Chemical Information Systems, Inc. 800/CIS-USER; 301 /321-8440
7215 York Road
Baltimore, MD 21212
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SITE ENFORCEMENT TRACKING SYSTEM (SETS)(continued)
National Technical Information Service
5285 Port Royal Road
Springfield, VA 22161
File Tape:
PB90-591790 (National)
Diskettes:
51/4"
800/553-NTIS; 703/487-4650
31/2"
PB90-591780 (National) (Diskette)
PB90-502618 (Region 1) (Diskette)
PB90-502626 (Region 2) (Diskette)
PB90-502634 (Region 3) (Diskette)
PB90-502642 (Region 4) (Diskette)
PB90-502659 (Region 5) (Diskette)
PB90-502667 (Region 6) (Diskette)
PB90-502675 (Region 7) (Diskette)
PB90-502683 (Region 8) (Diskette)
PB90-502691 (Region 9) (Diskette)
PB90-502709 (Region 10) (Diskette)
PB92-592130 (National) (Diskette)
PB92-500131 (Region 1) (Diskette)
PB92-500149 (Region 2) (Diskette)
PB92-500156 (Region 3) (Diskette)
PB92-500164 (Region 4) (Diskette)
PB92-500172 (Region 5) (Diskette)
PB92-500180 (Region 6) (Diskette)
PB92-500198(Region 7) (Diskette)
PB92-500206 (Region 8) (Diskette)
PB92-500214 (Region 9) (Diskette)
PB92-500222 (Region 10) (Diskette)
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SUPERFUND REPORT INFORMATION SYSTEM (SRIS)
Overview
Developed by the Program Evaluation Section of Superfund's Office of Program
Management, the Superfund Report Information System (SRIS) is a user-friendly PC-based
information system intended to provide EPA offices with the ability to: 1) track the
development and publication of Superfund-related studies and reports: 2) retrieve
information about these studies or reports; 3) track EPA's response to official reports; and
4) track the Agency's implementation of follow-up actions.
Contents
SRIS contains detailed information on most FY1988,1989, and 1990 studies and reports
relevant to the Superfund program that were released by the General Accounting Office
(GAO), the Office of Inspector General (OIG), and the Office of Technology Assessment
(OTA). Additionally, information on reports published by various public and private
sources the Congress, think-tanks, and interest groups-are also included. (In SRIS a
"study" is an unfinished or ongoing assessment and a "report" is a finished product).
Access
The database is for EPA internal use. It can be accessed on the OERR LAN and staff can
gain access by obtaining an initial access code and password. However, many of the audit
reports included in this database are in hard copy at the EPA Headquarters Library.
Contacts
Sharon Hallinan (EPA), SRIS Administrator 703/603-8894
Bill White (EPA), OERR LAN Manager 703/603-8923
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TOXIC RELEASE INVENTORY (TRI)
Overview
The Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) was developed to manage data from an inventory of
toxic substances mandated under Title ffl (§ 313) of the Superfund Amendments and
Reauthorization Act (SARA) of 1986. SARA set forth provisions for the reporting, by
industry, of data on over 300 toxic chemicals released into the air, water, and land. The
reporting requirement applies to owners and operators of facilities having 10 or more full-
time employees, that are in Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes 20 through 39
(i.e., manufacturing facilities) and that manufacture (including importing), process or
otherwise use a listed toxic chemical in excess of specified threshold quantities.
Contents
TRI data is arranged in the following broad categories: 1) Facility identification; 2)
Substance identification; 3) Environmental release of chemical; 4) Waste treatment; and 5)
Off-site waste transfer. Specifically, the data include the names, addresses and public
contacts of plants manufacturing, processing or using the reported chemicals, the
maximum amount stored on site, the estimated quantity emitted into the air (point and
non-point emissions), discharged into bodies of water, injected underground, or released to
land, methods used in waste treatment and their efficiency, and data on the transfer of
chemicals off-site for treatment/disposal, either to publicly owned treatment works or
elsewhere. (Based upon data collected on EPA's Toxic Chemical Release Form R).
Access
TRI is publicly accessible on the National Library of Medicine's (NLM) Toxicology Data
Network (TOXNET) and LEXIS/NEXIS, produced by Mead Data Central, Inc. Both the
Government Printing Office (GPO) and the National Technical Information Service offer
CD-ROM, microfiche, magnetic tape and other special software products related to this
database.
Contacts
User Support (TRI Us) 202/260-1531
EPCRA Hotline 800/535-0202; 202/479-2449
GPO 202/783-3238; 202/275-0186
710 North Capitol St., NW (computer products)
Washington, DC 20401
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Commercial Sources
LEXIS/NEXIS 800/543-6862
Mead Data Central, Inc. 513/859-1608
9443 Springboro Pike, P.O. Box 933
Dayton, OH 45401
National Library of Medicine 301 /496-6531
TRI Representative
8600 Rockville Pike
Bethesda, MD 20894
National Technical Information Service 800/553-NTIS; 703/487-4650
5285 Port Royal Road 703/487-4763 (computer products)
Springfield, VA 22161
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VENDOR INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR
INNOVATIVE TREATMENT TECHNOLOGIES (VISITT)
Overview
This database, developed by the Technology Innovation Office (TIO) within the Office of
Solid Waste and Emergency Response (OSWER), provides information on 155 innovative
treatment technologies and the 97 companies that offer them. It is part of a broad effort to
promote the use of innovative treatment technologies for the cleanup of soil and
groundwater contaminated by hazardous waste. VISITT is designed to capture current
information on the availability, performance and cost of innovative treatment to remediate
contaminated hazardous waste sites. Information is submitted by developers,
manufacturers, and suppliers of innovative treatment technology equipment and services.
The database is a means for innovative technology vendors to make their products and
capabilities known.
Contents
The database contains data on vendors of innovative technologies to treat soils, sludges,
sediments and groundwater in situ, e.g., soil washing, thermal desorption, bioremediation,
solvent extraction and in situ vitrification. It does not include conventional technologies,
i.e., incineration, solidification/stabilization, and above-ground aqueous treatment
systems.
Each vendor record includes company information (name, address, contacts, phone
number), a technology description, technology advantages and limitations, and applicable
media, wastes and contaminants. Vendors may also provide information on: performance
data; waste limitations; unit costs and factors impacting cost; available hardware/capacity;
project names and contacts; permits obtained; treatability studies; and references. Data
retrieved can be viewed on the screen or printed.
Special Features:
searching on a waste description to find applicable technologies
searching on a specific technology to find available vendors
searching on a site name to locate vendors which may have conducted
treatability studies for the site or site cleanup
Access
VISITT is currently available on diskettes only. The diskettes are free to the public and can
be ordered by calling or writing to the VISITT Hotline (next page). The database will be
updated at least annually. Vendors who want to submit technology information can obtain
the Vendor Information Form (EPA/540/2-91/011) by calling 513/569-7562.
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For EPA staff, TIO is working directly with headquarters and regional offices and labs to
install the database on LANs and at workstations. To find out about the status of this
project, call the Hotline listed below.
Contacts
Hotline 800/245-4505
703/883-8448
For written requests, write to:
visnr
c/o PRC Environmental Management, Inc.
1505 Planning Research Drive
McLean, VA 22102
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APPENDIX
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Appendix
General Bibliography
The following sources provide additional information on EPA and commercial databases
addressing hazardous waste topics:
Access EPA: Major EPA Environmental Databases. U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency, Information Management Services Division, Washington, DC, EPA 220B-92-014,
PB92-147438,1992.
An extensive number of databases have been developed to respond to legislative
requirements to monitor, track, and report certain types of information and/or to help the
Agency more efficiently execute its activities. This document is designed as a guide to the
major environmental data systems within EPA. A "major system" has been defined, for the
purposes of this document, as those Agency systems which are national in scope and which
contain information related to one of the environmental programs, as opposed to
administrative data.
Directory of Online Databases. New York, NY, Cuadra/Elsevier, 1991.
A semi-annual publication which indexes databases by name, producer (i.e., Federal
agency, commercial company) and subject. Index leads to a descriptive summary of the
database.
Donley, Elizabeth, ed., Environmental Software Directory. Donley Technology, Box 335,
GarrisonviUe, VA 22463; 703-659-1954.1990/91 Edition. 1990. 293 pp. ISSN: 1043-9056.
Arranged by subject, this annual directory provides information on automated
information systems which focus on an array of environmental topics. Among the areas
covered are: hazardous substance management, water/wastewater, ground water/soils,
mapping/geophysical information, air pollution, and ecological related issues.
Government and commercial productsdatabases, software, online systems are included.
Information Systems Inventory (ISP. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,
Administration and Resources Management, Information Management and Services
Division, Washington, DC, 21M-1016, May 1991.
Available in hard copy and on computer diskettes, this information resource contains data
on approximately 500 of EPA's current information systems as well as some models and
databases. It is the definitive source of summary information about EPA systems. The
database is updated and maintained by the Information Management and Services
Division of the Office of Information Resources Management. The public can obtain hard
copies or diskettes through the National Technical Information Service (NTIS).
A-l
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Matthew Lesko. The Federal Data Base Finder: A Directory of Free and Fee-Based Data
Bases and Files Available from the Federal Government. Information USA, Inc., P.O. Box
15700, Chevy Chase, MD 20815; 3*01-369-1519. Third Edition. 1990. 571 pp. $125 (Book and
diskette for $325). ISBN 1-878346-03-2.
This valuable resource includes a list of databases and data files from all the federal
government departments, many independent agencies, and the legislative, executive and
judicial branches. Each entry presents a brief description, stock number and contact person.
A table of contents provides an easy guide to all the databases and files within each
department or agency. The index helps locate information by subject.
Matthew Lesko, The State Data and Database Finder. Information USA, Inc., P.O. Box
15700, Chevy Chase, MD 20815; 301-369-1519. 1990. $145 (Book and diskette for $345).
Identifies thousands of database and data sources which are hidden within each of the 50
state governments.
The OSWER Source Book and Addendum. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,
Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response, Technology Innovation Office,
Washington, DC, EPA/540/9-91/001, May 1991; April 1992
The section on "Information Systems and Software" describes additional database sources
of hazardous waste information produced by the Office of Solid Waste and Emergency
Response.
Sullivan, Thomas (ed.), Directory of Environmental Information Sources. 3rd ed.
Rockville, MD., Government Institutes, Inc., 1990.
Contains a section listing environmental databases and describing their content and access.
Numerous entries relating to hazardous waste topics are listed.
A-2
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