GUIDE TO EPA INFORMATION SOURCES
ARRANGED BY STATUTE
Ubrary
EPA Headquarters Library
November 1, 1995
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CLEAN AIR ACT (CAA)
Statutory Authority
The Clean Air Act (CAA) was first passed in 1955 as the Air Pollution Control Act. The Act
was significantly strengthened under the 1990 CAA Amendments, protecting human health
and the environment from emissions that pollute ambient, or outdoor, air. The Act requires
states to implement specified air pollution controls and addresses mobile sources, air
toxics, and acid rain, along with ozone depleting substances, enforcement, clean air
research, disadvantaged business concerns, and employment transition and assistance.
The Act is codified as 42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.
EPA Information Sources
Air Docket
The Air Docket is open to the public for inspection and photocopying of all
rulemaking and other decisions under the Clean Air Act.
phone: (202) 260-7548
fax: (202) 260-7883
Stratospheric Ozone Information Hotline
The Hotline provides consultation on ozone protection regulations and requirements
under title VI of the Clean Air Act Amendments (CAAA) of 1990, all published rules,
Federal Register notices, science and policy reports, and Fact Sheets on stratospheric
ozone depletion and protection.
phone: (800)296-1996
fax: (202)783-1106
Emission Factor Clearinghouse *•
-r
*$> '
The Clearinghouse is a means of exchanging information on air pollution control
matters, addressing criteria pollutants from stationary, area sources, and mobile sources,
between and among federal, state and local pollution control agencies, and private
citizens. An electronic bulletin board is also available.
phone: (919)541-5285 CHIEF Hotline
fax: (919)541-0684
modem: (919) 541-5742 CHIEF Bulletin Board
L.
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EPA Databases
Aerometric Information Retrieval System (AIRS)
AIRS is the national repository for information about airborne pollution in the United
States. AIRS is comprised of four subsystems: the Air Quality Subsystem (AQS), the AIRS
Facility Subsystem (AFS), the AIRS Area/Mobile Source Subsystem (AMS), and the Geo-
Common Subsystem (GCS). AIRS is available on EPA's mainframe and is accessible for
EPA, state and local governments.
phone:
fax:
(919)541-5549
(919)541-2357
CHIEF Bulletin Board
In connection with the Emission Factor Clearinghouse, the CHIEF bulletin board
provides an electronic means of exchanging information on air pollution control matters, a
addressing criteria pollutants from stationary sources, area sources, and mobile sources,
between federal, state and local pollution control agencies, and private citizens.
modem:
CHIEF Hotline:
(919)541-5742
(919)541-5285
EPA Listservs
Federal Register Notices . •--
Summaries of air-related Federal Register notices can be received via e-mail by
sending an e-mail message to:
tistserver@unixmail.rtpnc.epa.gov
with the message in the text field:
y
SUBSCRIBE EPA*AIR FIRSTNAME LASTNAME
EPA Aerometric Information Retrieval System Listserv
A listserv dedicated to AIRS information. To subscribe, send an e-mail message to:
listserver@unixmail.rtpnc.epa.gov
with the message in the text field:
SUBSCRIBE AIRS-L FIRSTNAME LASTNAME
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CLEAN WATER ACT (CWA)
Statutory Authority
Originally enacted as the Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1948, since 1977, the law
has been known as the Clean Water Act. It is codified as 33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq. The
104th Congress is currently working on reauthorizing the CWA.
The Clean Water Act's objective is the restoration and maintenance of the chemical,
physical, and biological integrity of the Nation's waters. Two goals were established in the
1972 legislation: zero discharge of pollutants by 1985, with an interim goal, where
possible, for water quality that is both "fishable" and "swimmable" by mid-1983. While
those dates have passed, the goals remain, and efforts to attain the goals continue.
EPA Information Sources .
Water Docket
The Water Docket contains background materials used to create water regulations
for both the Clean Water Act and the Safe Drinking Water Act, including Federal Register
notices, public comments, and supporting EPA documents.
phone: (202)260-3027
Water Resources Center
The Water Resources Center answers water-related questions and provides EPA
publications produced by the Office of Ground Water and Drinking Water (OGWDW), the
Office of Science and Technology (OST), and the Office of Wasiewatef Management
(OWM). . .
phone:
fax; _^ >
e-mail:
(202) 260-7786
(202)260-0386 .
Waterpubs @ epamail.epa.gov
Water Librarian
The Water Librarian maintains the Water Collection within the EPA Headquarters
Library and provides water-related reference and information assistance to EPA and the
public. A weekly electronic newsletter distributed via listserver on the reauthorization
status of the Clean Water and Safe Drinking Water Acts can be requested via e-mail. A
monthly newsletter^ the Water Cycle, available electronically or in print, focuses on current
water-related issues.
phone: (202)260-8670
fax: (202)260-5153
e-mail: Library-HQ@epamail.epa.gov
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EPA Databases
Permit Compliance System (PCS)
PCS is a computerized management information system which contains data from
permittees, EPA Regions, and states on National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) permit-holding facilities. PCS keeps extensive records on more than 65,000
active water-discharge permits on sites located throughout the nation. Access to PCS
requires a user ID in order to connect to the EPA mainframe where the database is stored.
ID's are provided to EPA staff, states, contractors, and grantees. Other users may request
information - except enforcement sensitive information - through the Freedom of
Information Act (FOIA) process.
phone: (202)260-8313
fax: . (202)260-5282
Storage and Retrieval of US Waterways Parametric Data (STOP.ET)
STORET is a repository of waterway parametric data, including information on
ambient, intensive survey, effluent, and biological water quality of the waterways within and
contiguous to the United States. STORET is used by EPA programs, regions, states
(especially those in water programs), other federal agencies, contractors, and universities.
To obtain access to STORET, contact the STORET user assistance group at (800) 429-
9067 to request a user ID. To access STORET through a public account to the EPA
,.<5 mainframe, contact the National Technical Information Service (NTIS) at (703) 487-4807.
phone: (202) 260-7050
fax: (202) 260-7024
Emergency Response Notification System (ERNS)
ERNS is used to store information on notifications of releases of oil and hazardous
substances into the environment and supports the release notification of section 311 of the
!:; Clean Water Act. Additionally, ERNS serves as a mechanism to document and verify
incident-location information as initially reported, and is utilized as a direct source of easily
accessible data needed for analyzing oil and hazardous substance spills. ERNS
information is used for the following purposes: guidance and regulatory development;
Congressional inquiries; response preparedness; compliance and enforcement support;
statistical and trend analyses; program planning and management; and responses to
requests for information from the public. Online access to ERNS is restricted to EPA and
other authorized federal governmental personnel. ERNS information may be obtained
through the ERNS information line or through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
process.
phone: (703) 603-8735 or (202) 260-2342
fax: (703)603-9116
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Environmental Monitoring Methods Index (EMMI)
. EMMI is a computerized database of more than 2,600 EPA-regulated substances.
The information for each substance includes published regulatory limits, method detection
limits, method abstracts, and EPA contact information. The regulatory information was
extracted from 50 regulatory lists in current environmental laws, including the Clean Water
Act (CWA) and the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). EMMI is available on diskettes which
may be installed on a PC. Members of the public are charged for.the diskettes.
phone: (703)519-1222
National Catalog on the Online Library System (OLS)
The National Catalog is an electronic catalog of EPA library holdings, citations and
abstracts for EPA publications provided by the National Technical Information Service
(NT!S). Each library is assigned a three letter code that will identify the documents that are
held by specific EPA libraries, or are available through NTIS. NTIS documents are
identified by a NTIS number, i.e.: PB95-123456. The EPA Headquarters Library OCLC
code is EJB. The Headquarters also has a collection of NTIS documents available on
microfiche. OLS can be accessed via the internet or through modem.
The Headquarters Library has a Water Collection maintained by the Office of Water
Librarian. When searching for items available in the Headquarters Water Collection, look
for a special collection designation as "WAT" in the holdings field i.e.: EJBM WAT EPA/
810-B-94-006. • "
modem: (919)549-0729
Format Settings: half duplex, even parity, seven data bits, one stop bit
telnet: EPAIBM.RTPNC.EPA.GOV
At the first menu; select "Public Access" at the second, select "OLS."
At the third menu, select "N" for the National Catalog.
user support: (800) 334-2405
HQ Library: (202)260-5921/5922
Water Librarian: (202)260-8670
EPA Listservs *
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CWA/SDWA Reauthorization Newsbrief
The Clean Water Act-Safe Drinking Water Act Reauthorization Newsbrief is a
weekly electronic update of the status of the Clean .Water Act and Safe Drinking Water Act
as reauthorization is sought in Congress. - Produced by the Office of Water Librarian, this
service also includes water-related citations to articles of interest. Available to any
interested party with an internet address. To subscribe, send an e-mail address to:
listserver@unixmail.rtpnc.epa.gov
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with the message in the text field:
SUBSCRIBE CWA-SDWA FiRSTNAME LASTNAME
Federal Register Notices
Summaries of water-related Federal Register notices can be received via e-mail tpy
sending an e-mail message to:
listserver® unixmail.rtpnc.epa.gov
with the message in the text field:
SUBSCRIBE EPA-WATER FIRSTNAME LASTNAME
Non-Point Source Information Exchange
An electronic discussion list on non-point source pollution. To subscribe, send an e-
mail message to:
listserver@unixmail.rtpnc.epa.gov
With the message in the text field:
SUBSCRIBE NPSINFO FIRSTNAME LASTNAME
Other Sources of CWA-related information
EPA Headquarters Library
EPA Headquarters Library has a number of CD-ROM databases Available providing
citations/abstracts of articles thaj^cover clean water issues, including:
Water Resources Abstracts
Environment Abstracts
Agricola
ASFA (Aquatic Sciences & Fisheries Abstracts)
NTIS (National Technical Information Service)
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COMPREHENSIVE ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSE, COMPENSATION,
AND LIABILITY ACT (CERCLA)
Statutory Authority
The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980
(CERCLA), P.L. 96-510 was reauthorized by the Superfund Amendments and
Reauthorization Act of 1986 (SARA), P.L. 99-499, and is codified as 42 U.S.C. 9601-9675.
The Act authorizes the federal government to respond to spills and other releases of
hazardous substances identified under the Solid Waste Disposal Act, the Clean-Water Act,
the Clean Air Act, and the Toxic Substances Control Act, designated by EPA. Commonly
known as "Superfund", the law's taxing authority was to expire on December 31,1991.
However, the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990 (P.L. 101-508) extended the
taxes without modification for four years through December 31, 1995. The 104th
Congress is currently working on the reauthorization of Superfund.
EPA Information Sources
Superfund Docket
The Superfund Docket is the public viewing location for rulemaking materials which
support the Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response Superfund program.
Rulemaking materials include: Federal Register notices, public comments, EPA's,.response
to comments, and background reference materials. The Superfund docket contains the
9200 and 9300 series of OSWER directives. ' .
phone: (703)603-8917
Superfund Hotline
The RCRA/SF/UST (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act/Superfund/
Underground Storage Tanks) Hotline's primary function is to provide assistance to the
public in understanding EPA's regulations pursuance RCRA, UST, CERCLA, and Waste
Minimization/Pollution Prevention documents. The Hotiine also provides information on the
availability of documents related to RCRA, UST, and CERCLA/SUPERFUND.
phone:;- (800) 424-9346 or (703) 412-9810
fax: (703)412-3333
Solid Waste Assistance Program (SWAP)
SWAP is a technical information service designed to collect and distribute materials
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upon individual request and to help increase the availability of information in the field of
municipal solid waste management. All aspects of solid waste management are available,
including: source reduction, recycling, composting, planning, education and training, public
participation, legislation and regulation, waste combustion, collection, transfer, disposal,
landfill gas, and special wastes.
phone:
fax:
(800) 677-9424
(301)585-0297
of
Methods of Information Communications Exchange (MICE)
MICE provides the analytical text methods (SW-846) for the characterization
hazardous waste in support of RCRA. Questions regarding the Toxicity Characteristic
Leaching Procedure (TCLP), organic analyses, inorganic analyses, miscellaneous tests,
and quality control are answered by chemists, ground water specialists, sampling experts
and other professionals who are experienced and knowledgeable in SW-846 testing
procedures.
phone:
fax:
(703)821-4789
(703)821-4719
EPA Databases
CERCLIS
The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability I
Information Systems (CERCLIS) is the Superfund database that contains information on all
aspects of hazardous waste sites from initial discovery to listing on the National Priorities
List.
phone:
fax:
(703) 603-8881
(703)603-9133
Emergency Response Notification System (ERNS)
ERNS is used to store information on notifications'of releases of oil and hazardous
substances into the environment, and supports the release notification of section 311 of
the Clean Water Act. Additionally, ERNS serves as a mechanism-.to document and|verify
incident-location information as initially reported, and is utilized as a direct source of easily
accessible data needed for analyzing oil and hazardous substance spills. ERNS
information is used for the following purposes: guidance and regulatory development;
Congressional inquiries; response preparedness; compliance and enforcement support;
statistical and trend analyses; program planning and management; and responses to
requests for information from the public. Online access to ERNS is restricted to EPA and
other authorized federal governmental personnel. ERNS information may be obtained
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I through the ERNS information line or through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
process.
i
phone: (703) 603-8735 or (202) 260-2342
fax: (703)603-9116
EPA Listservs .
Federal Register
Summaries of waste-related Federal Register notices are available via e-mail. To
subscribe, send an e-mail message to:
listserver® unixmail.rtpnc.epa.gov
with the message in the text field:
SUBSCRIBE EPA-WASTE FIRSTNAME LASTNAME
RCRA/UST, Superfund & EPCRA Hotline
To receive updates to the Hotline, send an e-mail message to:
listserver@unixmail.rtpnc.epa.gov
with the message in the text field:
SUBSCRIBE HOT!_INE_OSWER FIRSTNAME LASTNAME
Other Sources of CERCUS Information
Environmental Factor CD-ROM ^
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• •?
The Environmental FactSr CD-ROM is available through the EPA Headquarters
Library CD-ROM tower and contains a searchable version of the RCRIS and CERCLIS
databases. To access the Headquarters Library CD-ROM tower, EPA employees and
contractors should contact their LAN administrators. All other interested parties can
access the Environmental Factor CD-ROM at the Headquarters Library, 401 M. Street,
S.W., Washington, D.C.- 20460, or contact the Headquarters Library at (202) 260-5922 for
more information.
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EMERGENCY PLANNING AND COMMUNITY
RIGHT-TO-KNOW ACT (EPCRA)
Statutory Authority
The Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) was enacted as
Title III of the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (P.L. 99-499) in 1986.
EPCRA is codified as 42 U.S.C. 11001-11050.
EPCRA requires local emergency planning to cope with chemical emergencies and
ensures that responsible officials are provided.with relevant information from local
businesses about their activities involving hazardous chemicals. The Act also mandated
the development of a national inventory of releases of toxic chemicals from manufacturing
facilities. The purpose of the inventory is to provide information to the general public about
potential exposure to chemicals.
EPA Information Sources
EPCRA Information Hotline
The EPCRA Information Hotline's primary function is to provide regulatory, policy,
and technical assistance to federal agencies, local and state governments, and the public
in response to questions related to EPCRA. The Hotline provides information on the
availability of EPCRA documents and distributes documents on a limited basis. -
phone: (800) 535-0202 or (703) 412-9877
' . fax:' ' (703)412-3333
Federal Facilities Docket
The Federal Facilities Docket identifies and resolves environmental problems at
federal facilities that engage in hazardous waste activity or have the potential to release
hazardous substances into the environment. y
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phone: (800)548-1016
OPPT Non-Confidential Information Center (NCIC)
•The Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics (OPPT) Non-Confidential Information
Center (NCIC) houses the official copies of all OPPT administrative records supporting
regulatory decisions promulgated under TSCA, EPCRA, and SARA.
phone: (202) 260-7099
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Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics Library (OPPT)
The OPPT Library collection contains publications in chemistry and toxicology,
carcinogenesis and mutagenesis, and environmental health and safety, and is sponsored
by the Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances.
phone: (202) 260-3944
fax: (202) 260-4659
EPA Databases
Toxic Release Inventory (TRI)
TRI contains information from facilities on the amounts of ioxic chemicals that the
facilities release directly to air, water, or land, or that are transported off-site. The purpose
of TRI is to encourage planning for response to chemical accidents and to provide the
public and government with information about possible chemical hazards in communities.
TRI is available on EPA's mainframe, the National Library of Medicine's Toxicology
Network (TOXNET), magnetic tape, CD-ROM, dBase, and Lotus diskettes (by state).
phone: (202) 260-3757
fax: (202) 260-4655
TRI User Support: (202)260-1531
Emergency Response Notification System (ERNS)
ERNS is used to store information on notification of releases of oiiand hazardous
substances into the environment. ERNS provides fact sheets, hard copies, diskettes, or
tapes of requested information. ERNS is available on the Department of Transportation's
VAX minicomputer in Cambridge, MA. ERNS is used by emergency response personnel,
enforcement personnel, and others within EPA interested in release notification and
response as well as other federal agencies. Online access is restricted to EPA and other
authorized federal governmental personnel. The ERNS Information Liije will provide
.additional information. JJ
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phone: (703) 603-8735
fax: (703)603-9116
ERNS Info Line: (202) 260-2342
Online Library System (OLS)
OLS is an electronic catalog of EPA library holdings, citations, and abstracts
provided by the National Technical Information Service (NTIS) to all EPA documents.
Each library is assigned a three letter code that will identify the documents that are held by
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specific EPA libraries, or are available through NTIS. NTIS documents are identified by a
NTIS Number, i.e.: PB95-123456. The EPA OPPT Library OCLC code is EJE. OLS can
be accessed via the internet or through modem.
To access OLS:
modem: (919) 549-0729
Format Setting: half duplex, even parity, seven data bits, one stop bit
telnet: EPAIBM.RTPNC.EPA.GOV
At the first menu, select "Public Access." at the second, select "OLS."
At the third menu, select "N" for the National Catalog.
user support: (800) 334-2405
OPPT Library: (202) 260-3944
EPA Listservs
Federal Register Notices
Summaries of Toxic Release Inventory notices can be received via e-mail by
sending an e-mail message to:
listserver® unixmail.rtpnc.epa.gov
with the message in the text field:
SUBSCRIBE EPA-TRI FIRSTNAME LASTNAME
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ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
DEMONSTRATION ACT (ERDDA)
Statutory Authority
Enacted by Congress in 1976, ERDDA, P.L. 94-475, was last amended in 1980. It is
currently known as the Environmental Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of
1981, P.L. 96-569. codified as 42 ILS.C. 4361-4370.
ERDDA is EPA's statutory mandate for research and development (R&D). ERDDA, along
with twelve other environmental protection laws, gives EPA the authority to conduct basic
arid applied research, to develop and demonstrate new technologies, to monitor the
ambient environment-air, water, land, plants, and animals-and to conduct diverse special
studies.
EPA Information Sources
National Environmental Supercomputing Center (NESC)
The NESC provides scientists with computing support for many critical
environmental models through a sophisticated telecommunications network.
Environmental models include:
- Predicting ozone levels in the atmosphere and projecting radiation levels . .
and the effectiveness of possible solutions;
• Studying the causes of acid rain and its short-term and long-term impacts on the
environment;
• Predicting the transport of toxic substances such as pesticides, and hazardous
wastes through air, ground water, surface water, and soil;
• Simulating the impact of landfill runoff on ecosystems based on changing
environmental conditions, chemical interaction within the landfill, and natural.
phenomena such as floods; ^ ^
• Studying water pollution in the Great Lakes region including the impact of water
circulation changing levels of pollutants, and environmental and man-made
conditions.
phone: (517)894-7600 ' .
fax: (517)894-7676
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FEDERAL INSECTICIDE, FUNGICIDE
AND RODENTICIDE ACT (FIFRA)
Statutory Authority
Originally enacted in 1947 (P.L. 80-104), a complete revision of the Federal Insecticide,
Fungicide and Rodenticide Act, including the requirement of registration of previously
approved pesticides, was enacted in 1972 and forms the basis of current Federal policy
codified as 7 U.S.C. 136-136y.
The Federal insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, as amended (FIFRA), gives the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the statutory authority to regulate pesticides.
Before a pesticide can be marketed in the United States, it must first be granted a
"registration". The registration decision is based on a determination that there are no
unreasonable adverse effects on human.health or the environment, within the constraints
of approved uses. AH pesticides must be labeled, and the label must specify approved
uses and restrictions.
EPA Information Sources
Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) Docket (Pesticides Docket)
The FIFRA Docket houses background documents and public comments on
proposed actions announced by the Office of Pesticide Programs (OPP) in the Federal
Register. The Special Review and Registration Standard Docket include all Position
Documents, Registration Standards, Science Chapters, public comments,-references,
letters, other pesticide documents received by OPP under Special Review, and minutes of
meetings between EPA and outside parties concerning pesticides under Special Review
and those evaluated in the Registration Standard process.
phone: (703)305-5805
fax: (703) 305-5884
EPA Databases .. " • _
Pesticide Information Network (PIN)
PIN provides a contacts directory, pesticide applicator training bibliography,
pesticide monitoring inventory, pesticide environmental fate and effects data summaries,
and current regulatory information on pesticides in special review, cancelled or suspended
pesticides, and restricted use product information. Information is provided by EPA, other
federal and state agencies, universities, and anyone involved with pesticide manufacture,
use, regulation, enforcement, and research. PIN currently contains three information files:
Chemical index, Pesticide Monitoring Inventory, and Restricted Use Products. In 1996,
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four other information files are expected to be added: Pesticide Applicator Training, -
Environmental Fate and Effects Data Summaries, Regulatory Information and a Contacts
Directory.
modem: (703)305-5919
Format Setting: half duplex, seven databits, even parity, one stop bit
phone: (703) 305-7499
fax: (703) 305-6309
Online Library System (OLS)
OLS is an electronic catalog of EPA library holdings, citations and abstracts
provided by the National Technical Information Service (NTIS) to EPA documents. Each
library is assigned a three letter code that will identify the documents that are held by
specific EPA libraries, or are available through NTIS. The EPA Headquarters OCLC code
is EJB. NTIS documents are identified by a NTIS Number, i.e.: PB95-123456. OLS can
be accessed via the internet or through modem.
modem: (919)549-0729
Format Setting: half duplex, even parity, seven data bits, one stop bit
telnet: EPAIBM.RTPNC.EPA.GOV
At the first menu, select "Public Access." at the second, select "OLS."
At the third menu, select "N" for the National Catalog.
OLS user support: (800) 334-2405
HQ Library: (202) 260-5922/5921
EPAListservs
Federal Register Notices
Summaries of pesticide-related Federal Register notices can be received via e-mail
by sending an e-mail message to:
y
listserver@unixmaj.rtpnc.epa.gov
*- -^
with the message in the text field:
SUBSCRIBE EPA-PEST FIRSTNAME LASTNAME
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Other Sources of FIFRA-related information
EPA Headquarters Library
EPA Headquarters Library has a number of CD-ROM databases providing citations/
abstracts of articles that cover pesticide products and their use, including:
CHEM-BANK
POLTOX
TOXLINE
ASFA (Aquatic Sciences & Fisheries Abstracts)
NTIS (National Technical Information Service)
Agricola
Environment Abstracts
MEDLINE
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NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT (NEPA)
Statutory Authority
The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) was enacted as P.L. 91-190 on January 1,
1970, and codified as 42 U.S.C. 4321-4347.
The National Environmental Policy Act provides permanent authorizations for annual
appropriations. Although primarily administered by the Executive Office .of the President's
Council on Environmental Quality, several NEPA responsibilities have been assigned to •
the Environmental Protection Agency. The basic purposes of NEPA are: to declare a
national policy to encourage productive and enjoyable harmony between man and his
environment; to promote efforts which will prevent or eliminate damage to the environment
and biosphere and stimulate the health and welfare of man; to enrich the understanding of
the ecological systems and natural resources important to the Nation; and to establish a
Council on Environmental Quality.
EPA has responsibility in four programs or activities: construction grants, new source
National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits, research and
development programs, and facility support activities. As part of the 1974 Policy on NEPA
compliance, EPA is committed to preparing environmental impact statements on selected
significant regulatory actions.
EPA Information Sources .."--.
Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) •
An EIS is a document required of federal agencies by the National Environmental
Poiicy Act (NEPA) for major projects or legislative proposals significantly affecting the
environment. It describes the positive and negative effects of the undertaking and fists
alternative actions. EPA reports all filed environmental impact statements in the Federal
Register. For each EIS listed, a public contact is given, along with the filing agency name
and phone number. • f
£
phone: (202)265-5083 *
fax: (202)260-0129
Council on Environmental Quality Annual Report
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), part of the Executive Office of the
President, produces an annual report to Congress on the state of the environment. This
report details environmental issues and trends. Information relating to EPA is in the report.
phone: (202) 395-5750
fax: (202) 395-3744
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EPA Databases
Permit Compliance System (PCS)
PCS is a computerized management information system which contains data from
permittees, EPA Regions, and states on National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) permit-holding facilities. PCS keeps extensive records on more than 65,000
active water-discharge permits on sites located throughout the nation. Access to PCS
requires a user ID in order to connect to the EPA mainframe where the database is,stored.
ID's are provided to EPA staff, states, contractors, and grantees. Other users may request
information - except enforcement sensitive information - through the Freedom of
Information Act (FOiA) process.
phone: (202)260-8313
fax: (202) 260-5282
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OCEAN DUMPING ACT
Statutory Authority
Enacted as the first two titles of the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act
(MPRSA) of 1972, P.L. 92-532, codified as 33 U.S.C. 1401-1445.
The Ocean Dumping Act has two basic aims which have remained virtually unchanged
since 1972: to regulate intentional ocean disposal of materials, and to authorize related
research. Other agencies, in addition to EPA, that have responsibilities under the Ocean
Dumping Act are the US Army Corps of Engineers, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA), and the Coast Guard. EPA has primary authority for regulating
ocean disposal of all substances except dredged spoils, which fall under the Corps of
Engineers authority! NOAA is responsible for long-range research on the effects of
human-induced changes to the marine environment, while EPA is authorized to carry out
research related to phasing out sewage sludge and industrial waste dumping. The Coast
Guard is charged with maintaining surveillance of ocean dumping. v
EPA Information Sources
Water Librarian
The Water Librarian maintains the Water Collection within the EPA Headquarters
Library and provides water-related reference and information assistance to EPA and the
public.
phone: (202)260-8670 '
fax: (202)260-5153
e-mai!: Library-HQ@epamail.epa.gov
EPA Databases • * .
Ocean Data Evaluation Systgrn (ODES)
ODES maintains marine water quality and biological data, and is used by publicly
owned treatment works (POTWs) and their supporting contractors, federal agencies, state
agencies, EPA programs, and universities. ODES was initially developed to provide
managers and analysts with marine monitoring data to assist in meeting the 301 (h)
sewage discharge statutes. The system, which was expanded to house monitoring data
for both marine and fresh water supplies, now contains information associated with the
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), ocean dumping, the National
Estuary Program, 403c industrial discharge, the Great Lakes Remedial Action Program,
and the National Coastal Waters Programs. ODES is available to EPA and its partners
(states, contractors, and grantees) by obtaining a user ID through the National Data
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Processing Division to access the EPA mainframe. To obtain an ID for ODES, contact
(202) 260-7028.
phone: (202) 260-7028
fax: (202) 260-7024
EPA Listservs
Federal Register Notices
Summaries of water-related Federal Register notices can be received via e-mail by
sending an e-mail message to:
listserver® unixmail.rtpnc.epa.gov
with the message in the text field:
SUBSCRIBE EPA-WATER FIRSTNAME LASTNAME
Other Sources of MPRSA-related information
EPA Headquarters Library .
EPA Headquarters Library has a number of CD-ROM databases available providing
citations/abstracts of articles that cover clean water issues, including:
Water Resources Abstracts
Environment Abstracts
ASFA (Aquatic Sciences & Fisheries Abstracts)
NTIS (National Technical Information Service)
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POLLUTION PREVENTION ACT (PRA)
Statutory Authority
Enacted as title VI of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990, P.L. 101-508,
codified as 42 U.S.C. 13101-13109.
The Pollution Prevention Act of 1990 requires EPA to establish the Office of Pollution
Prevention, create and organize a pollution prevention strategy, and develop source
reduction models. The Act authorizes the collection of data on pollution prevention and
requires owners and operators of manufacturing facilities to report annually on source
reduction and recycling activities.
EPA information Sources
Pollution Prevention Information Clearinghouse (PPIC) •
PPIC provides information on pollution prevention, source reduction, and recycling.
and distributes factsheets and related EPA documents. •
phone: (202)260-1023
fax: (202)260-5153
e-mail: "- ppic@epamail.epa.gov
EPA Databases . ,
Enviro$ense
Enviro$ense is an electronic environmental communications network promoting
efficient pollution prevention, innovative technology, and compliance assistance.
Enviro$ense is accessible through modem or through the internet.
modem: ' (703) 908-2092
BBS: (703) 908-200?
WWW: http://wastenot.inei.gov/envirosense/
Online Library System .(OLS)
OLS is an electronic catalog of EPA library holdings, citations, and abstracts
provided by the National Technical Information Service (NTIS) to all EPA documents.
Each library is assigned a three letter code that will identify the documents held by a
specific EPA library, or are available through NTIS. NTIS documents are identified by a
NTIS number, i.e.: PB95-123456. The EPA Headquarters library OCLC code is EJB.
Within the Headquarters library is a special collection of Pollution Prevention
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materials. The special collection is identified in the holdings field as "PPC"; i.e.: EJBM PPG
EPA/600/R-95/070.
modern: (919)549-0729
Format Settings: half duplex, even parity, seven data bits, one stop bit
telnet: EPAIBM.RTPNC.EPA.GOV
At the first menu, select "Public Access" at the second, select "OLS."
At the third menu, select "N" for the National Catalog.
user support: (800) 334-2405
HQ Library: , (202)260-5921/5922
PPIC: (202)260-1023
EPA Listservs
Federal Register Notices
Summaries of general, environmentally-related Federal Register notices are
available via e-mail by sending an e-mail message to:
listserver@unixmail.rtpnc.epa.gov
with the message in the text field:
SUBSCRIBE EPA-GENERAL FIRSTNAME LASTNAME
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SAFE DRINKING WATER ACT (SWDA)
Statutory Authority
The Safe Drinking Water Act, P.L. 93-523, was .enacted on December 16, 1974, and
codified as 42 U.S.C. 300f et seq. The Act was last reauthorized in June 1986 (P.L. 99-
339), and was authorized through FY91. The 104th Congress is working toward the
reauthorization of the SWDA.
The Safe Drinking Water Act is the.basis for protecting public drinking water systems from
-harmful contaminants. The major part of the Act is title XIV of the Public Health Service
Act-Safety of Public Water Systems. Basically, the Act directs the EPA Administrator to
develop: (1) national primary drinking water regulations that incorporate maximum
contaminant levels or treatment techniques; (2) underground injection control regulations
to protect underground sources of drinking water; and (3) groundwater protection grant
programs for the administration of sole-source aquifer demonstration projects and for
wellhead protection area programs. The Act authorizes these activities to be implemented
by the States. " .
EPA Information Sources
Safe Drinking Water Hotline (SOW Hotline)
The Safe Drinking Water (SOW) Hotline assists both the regulated community ,_ -.\
(public water systems) and the public with their understanding'of the regulations and
programs developed in response to the Safe Drinking Water Act Amendments of 1986.
Drinking Water publications (fact sheets, pamphlets, health advisories, etc.) may be
requested through the SOW Hotline. .
phone: • (800) 426-4791
Water Docket , ^
•if.
..?
The Water Docket coruains Background rqaterials used to create water regulations
for both the Clean Water Act and the.Safe Drinking Water Act, including Federal Register
notices, public comments, and supporting EPA documents.
phone: '(202)260-3027
Water Resources Center ,
The .Water Resources Center answers water-related questions and provides EPA
publications produced by the Office of Ground Water and Drinking Water (OGWDW), the
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Office of Science and Technology (OST), and the Office of Wastewater Management
(OWM).
phone:
fax:
e-mail:
(202) 260-7786
(202) 260-0386
Waterpubs@epamail.epa.gov
Water Librarian
The Water Librarian maintains the Water Collection within the EPA Headquarters
Library and provides water-related reference and information assistance to EPA and the
public. A weekly electronic newsletter distributed via listserver on the reauthorization
status of the Clean Water and Safe Drinking Water Acts can be requested via e-mail. A
monthly newsletter, the Water Cycle, available electronically or in print, focuses on current
water-related issues.
phone: (202) 260-8670
fax: (202)260-5153
e-mail: Library-HQ@epamail.epa.gov
EPA Databases
Federal Reporting Data System (FRDS)
FRDS is a repository of information about Public Water Supplies (PWS) and their ,
compliance with monitoring requirements, maximum contaminant level regulations,' and
other requirements of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) of 1986. FRDS is used by EPA
Headquarters and Regions, states, and industry. To obtain access to FRDS, a public
account.to EPA's mainframe can be obtained through the National Technical information
Service (NTIS) by contacting NTIS at (703) 487-4807. EPA and its partners (states,
contractors, and grantees) must obtain a user ID through the National Data Processing
Division (NDPD) by contacting the FRDS User Support at (703) 339-0137.
phone: (202)260-2804 ^
fax: (202J;260-3464
*" «*, z
Environmental. Monitoring Methods Index (EMMI)
EMMI is a computerized database of more than 2,600 EPA-regulated substances. .
The information for each substance includes published regulatory limits, method detection
limits, method abstracts, and EPA contact information. The regulatory information was
extracted from 50 regulatory lists in current environmental laws, including the Clean Water
Act (CWA) and the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). EMMI is available on diskettes which
may be installed on a PC. Members of the public are charged for the diskettes.
phone:
(703)519-1222
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National Catalog on the Online Library System (OLS)
The National Catalog is an electronic catalog of EPA library holdings, citations and
abstracts for EPA publications provided by the National Technical Information Service
(NTIS). Each library is assigned a three letter code that will identify the documents that are
held by specific EPA libraries, or are available through NTIS. NTIS documents are
identified by a NTIS number, i.e.: PB95-123456. The EPA Headquarters'Library OCLQe that will i
code is EJB. The Headquarters also has a collection of NTIS documents available on
microfiche. OlS can be accessed via the internet or through modem.
The Headquarters Library has a Water Collection maintained by the Office of Water .
Librarian. When searching for items available in the Headquarters Water Collection, look
for a special collection designation as "WAT" in the holdings field i.e.: EJBM WAT EPA/
810-B-94-006. .
modem: (919)549-0729
Format Settings: half duplex, even parity, seven data bits, one stop bit
telnet: EPAIBM.RTPNC.EPA.GOV ' .
At the first menu, select "Public Access"-at the second, select "OLS."
At the third menu, select "N" for the National Catalog.
user support: (800)334-2405
HQ Library: (202) 260-5921/5922.
Water Librarian: (202) 260-8670
EPA Listservs
CWA/SDWA Reauthorization Newsbrief
The CWA/SWDA Reauthorization Newsbrief is a weekly electronic update on the
status of the Clean Water Act and Safe Drinking Water Act as reauthorization is sought in
Congress. Produced by the Office of Water Librarian, this service also includes water-
related citations to articles of interest. Available to any interested party with an internet
address. To subscribe, send an e-mail message to:
f
Iistserver@unixn5atl.rtpnc.epa.gov
~ •*• z • .
with the message in the text field:
SUBSCRIBE CWA-SDWA FIRSTNAME LASTNAME
Federal Register Notices
Summaries of water-related Federal Register notices can be received via e-mail by
sending an e-mail message to:
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listserver@unixmail.rtpnc.epa.gov
with the message in the text field:
SUBSCRIBE ERA-WATER FIRSTNAME LASTNAME
Other Sources of SDWA-related information
EPA Headquarters Library
EPA Headquarters Library has a number of CD-ROM databases available providing
citations/abstracts of articles that cover clean water issues, including:
Water Resources Abstracts
Environment Abstracts
Agricola
TOXLINE
MEDLINE
NTIS (National Technical Information Service)
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SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL ACT/
RESOURCE CONSERVATION AND RECOVERY ACT (RCRA)
Statutory Authority
The Solid Waste Disposal Act was first enacted in 1965. In 1976, it was amended by the
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), establishing federal regulation of solid
and hazardous waste management. The Act is codified as 42 U.S.C. 6901-6991k.
*j •
RCRA defines solid and hazardous waste, authorizes EPA to set standards for facilities
that generate or manage hazardous waste, and establishes a permit program for •
hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal facilities.
EPA Information Sources
Resources Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) Docket and RCRA Information Center
(RIC)
The RCRA Information Center (RIC) provides public access to all regulatory
materials supporting EPA's actions under RCRA, and disseminates current technical and
nontechnical Office of Solid Waste publications. The 9400 and 9500 series of OSWER
f Directives are also available from the RIG.
phone: (202)260-9327
fax: (202)260-9327
RCRA Hotline
The RCRA/SF/UST (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act/Superfund/
Underground Storage Tanks) Hotline's primary function is to provide assistance to the
public in understanding EPA's regulations pursuant to RCRA, LIST, CERCLA, and Waste
Minimization/Pollution Prevention documents'. The Hotline also provide! information on the
availability of documents relateeHfo RCRA, UST, and CERCLA/SUPERFUND.
^>- . -•* •
phone: "(800)'424-9346 or (703) 412-9810
- fax: (703)412-3333
hotline: (800) 424-9346 or (703) 412-9810
Underground Storage Tank (UST) Docket ;
The UST Docket provides public access to regulatory information supporting EPA's •
regulatory actions on underground storage tanks. There are eight docket: UST
I Notification; Technical Standards for UST; Financial Responsibility for UST containing
Petroleum Products; State Program Approval; Report to Congress on Exempt Tanks;
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Administrative Assessment of Civil Penalties and Revocation and Suspension of Permits;
Financial Responsibility for USTs Containing Hazardous Materials; and Issuance of an
Administrative Hearing on RCRA Section 9003(h). The UST Docket also contains the
9600 and 9700 series of OSWER directives.
phone:
(202) 260-9720
Methods of Information and Exchange (MICE)
MICE provides the analytical text methods (SW-846) for the characterization of
hazardous waste in support of RCRA. Questions regarding the Toxicity Characteristic
Leaching Procedure (TCLP), organic analyses, inorganic analyses, miscellaneous tests,
and quality control are answered by chemists, "ground water specialists, sampling experts
and other professionals who are experienced and knowledgeable irt SW-846 testing
procedures.
phone:
fax:
(703)821-4769
(703)821-4719
Hazardous Waste Ombudsman Program
The hazardous waste management program established under RCRA assists the
public in resolving problems concerning any program or requirement under the Hazardous
Waste Program. The Ombudsman Program handles complaints, obtains facts, sorts
information, and substantiates policy. They can also provide fliers, brochures, and a
handbook on request.
phone:
fax:
(202) 260-9361 or (800) 262-7937
(202) 260-8929
EPA Databases
Resource Conservation and Recovery Information System (RCRIS) <
' **
RCRIS is a national system^vhich supports the Resource Conservation and
Recovery Act (RCRA) program through the tracking of events and activities related to
facilities which generate, transport, and treat, store, or dispose of hazardous waste.
RCRIS allows RCRA program staff to track the notification, permit, compliance, and
corrective action activities required under RCRA. EPA and states, contractors, and
grantees must obtain a use ID through the National Data Processing Division to access
RCRIS on the EPA mainframe. Magnetic tapes are also available through the National
Technical Information Service (NTIS).
phone:
fax:
(202) 260-4697
(202) 260-0284
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user support: (800) 767-7274
NJIS: (703) 487-4650 or (800) 553-NTIS
EPA Listservs
Federal Register Notices
Summaries of daily waste-related Federal Register notices are available via e-mail.
To subscribe, send an e-mail message to :
listserver@unixmail.rtpnc.epa.gov
with the message in the text field:
SUBSCRIBE EPA-WASTE FIRSTNAME LASTNAME
RCRA/UST, Superfund & EPCRA Hotline Update
To receive updates to the Hotline, send an e-mail message to:
listserver@unixmatl.rtpnc.epa.gov
with the message in the text field:
SUBSCRIBE HOTLINEJ3SWER FIRSTNAME LASTNAME
Other Sources of RCRA Informstion
Environmental Factor CD-ROM
The Environmental Factor CD-ROM is available through the EPA Headquarters
Library CD-ROM tower and contains a searchable version of the RCRIS and CERCLIS
databases. To access the Headquarters Library CD-ROM tower, EPA^employees and
contractors should contact thei(tLAN administrators. All other interested parties can
access the Environmental Factor CD-ROM at the headquarters Library, 401 M. Street,
S.W., Washington, D.C. 20460, or contact the Headquarters Library at (202) 260-5922 for
more information.
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TOXIC SUBSTANCE CONTROL ACT (TSCA)
Statutory Authority
The Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA) was signed into law in 1976 as-P.L. 94-469.
TSCA authorizes EPA to screen existing and new chemicals used in manufacturing and
commerce to identify potentially dangerous products or uses that should be subject to
federal control. TSCA is codified as 15 U.S.C. 2601 et seq.
Under TSCA, EPA may require manufacturers and processors of chemicals to conduct and
report the results of tests to determine the effects of potentially dangerous chemicals on
living beings. Based on test results and other information, EPA may regulate the
manufacture, importation, processing, distribution, use, and/or disposal of any chemical
that presents an unreasonable risk of injury to human health or the environment. A variety
of regulatory tools is available to EPA under TSCA ranging in severity from a warning label
to total ban. TSCA directs EPA to use the least burdensome option that can reduce risk to
a level that is reasonable given the benefits provided by the chemical product or process.
As enacted, TSCA included a provision requiring EPA to take specific measures to control
the risks from polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) [section 6(e)]. Subsequently, three titles
have been added to address concerns about other specific toxic substances such as,
asbestos in 1986 (Title II P.L 99-519), radon in 1988 (Title 111, P.L 100-551), and lead in
1992 (Title IV, P.L. 102-550).
EPA Information Sources
TSCA Assistance -,....
The TSCA Assistance Information Service provides information on TSCA
regulations. Publications such as Federal Register notices and other documents which
provide information on TSCA regulatory activities are available.
phone: (202)554-1404
fax: „ (202)554-5603 *
.*
OPPT Non-Confidential Information^Center (NCIC)
The Office of Pollution, Prevention, and Toxics (OPPT) Non-Confidentia! Information
Center (NCIC) houses the official copies of all OPPT administrative records supporting
regulatory decisions promulgated under TSCA, EPCRA, and SARA.
phone: (202)260-7099
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Asbestos Ombudsman Clearinghouse/Hotline
The mission of the Asbestos Ombudsman Clearinghouse/Hotline is to provide
information to the public on handling abatement and management of.asbestos in schools,
the work place,*and the home. Interpretation of the asbestos in schools requirements is
provided. Publications to explain recent legislation are also available.
phone: (703) 305-5938 or (800) 368-5888
fax: (703) 305-6462
National Radon Hotline
The National Radon Hotline provides information on radon health effects and home
testing for radon, along with brochure and a coupon for a discount on a Radon test kit.
phone: (800) SOS-RADON
fax: (202) 293-0032
National Lead Information Center Hotline
The mission of the National Lead Information Center Hotline is to provide
information to parents on how to protect children from lead poisoning. Callers will hear a
recording in either English or Spanish requesting their name and address to send an
information package containing a brochure on how to protect children from lead poisoning,
three related fact sheets, and a list of state and local contacts who can provide additional
information. ..
phone: (800) LEAD-FYI or (800) 532-3394
EPA Databases
TSCATS "J *;
tt
j>
•M*
The'Toxic Substances Control Act Test Submissions Online Database (TSCATS)
contains unpublished, non-Confidential Business Information (non-CBI) data used to
monitor health, ecological, and safety effects of the toxic chemicals used within industries.
The database contains citations and abstracts of studies of chemicals regulated under
TSCA. industries also submit FYI (for your information) studies which contain information
on human exposure, toxicity test results, environmental fate, epidemiology, and other
information that may be pertinent to risk assessment. The database is updated quarterly
and is available to EPA staff and the public through a variety of sources including, the
National Library of Medicine's TOXLINE, NTIS (National Technical Information Service)
magnetic tape and microfiche versions, Chemical .Information Systems, Inc. (CIS) TSCATS
file, SilverPIatter's CD-ROM TOXLINE, and online through Knight-Ridder's Dialog Toxline
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file. The TOXLINE CD-ROM is available on the Headquarters Library CD-ROM tower.
phone:
fax:
(202) 260-2320
(202) 260-4659
Chemicals on Reporting Rules (CORR)
The CORR database contains information available to the public on chemical
substances, categories, and mixtures regulated under TSCA and EPCRA. All CORR
entries have been the subject of proposed or final rules issued by the Office of Pollution
Prevention and Toxics (OPPT) in the Federal Register (FR). The purpose of CORR is to
link information about TSCA and EPCRA regulated chemicals with their respective FR
citations and/or Premanufacture Notice (PMN) information.
phone:
fax:
(202)554-1404
(202) 554-5603
Chemicals In Commerce Information system (CiCIS)
CICIS contains a comprehensive inventory of over 70,000 chemicals manufactured
in commerce or imported for TSCA regulated commercial purposes. The database can be
accessed by EPA. state and local governments, and the public.
phone:
fax:
(202)260-1444
(202)260-1657
EPA Listservs
Federal Register Notices
Summaries of toxics-related Federal Register notices are available via e-mail by
sending a message to:
*
listserver@unixmatl.rtpnc.epa.gov
Mfe
• "*• Z
with the message in the text field:
SUBSCRIBE EPA-TOX FIRSTNAME LASTNAME .
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