Can Rhode Island Effectively Respond to a
Major Hazardous Materials Incident?

Christopher Harwood

Deficiencies in trained response staff, dedicated response equipment, and inter-jurisdictional training puts the population and environment of Rhode Island at risk in the event of a release of hazardous materials. This thesis evaluates Rhode Island's compliance with the requirements of Federal legislation, assesses the current capability of emergency response to hazardous materials, assesses the potential risk of a major incident in the state, and makes recommendations for improvement.

A review of Federal laws and regulations shows Rhode Island to be out of compliance with the requirements to protect the public from hazardous materials incidents. A mail survey was conducted of response agencies in the Federal, State, Municipal, and Private sectors, which reveals deficiencies, particularly in the Municipal sector, which by both current practice and State protocol has primary responsibility for hazardous materials incident response. A computer model of a hazardous material incident in the City of Providence predicts grave consequences if such an incident were to occur. A comparative model demonstrates the capability to reduce exposure and casualties with an effective response system in place. An analysis was carried out of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Hazardous Materials Response Program, which utilizes Regional Response Teams. I suggest an adaptation of the Massachusetts program, for the State of Rhode Island to include personnel training, support, and equipment procurement. Alternatives for initial funding are presented, with the goal of making the proposed system self-sustaining through a cost-recovery program.

Current state protocol relegates primary responsibility of hazardous material incident response to the municipal sector. I believe that the responsibility should rest with the State government and that a statewide regional response team should be developed, with proper training, equipment, and support. My research shows that such a system can be self-sustaining and can reduce the impact and risk of hazardous materials incidents on the population and environment.