Right-to-Know
Right-to-know
Many states and local governments, as well as the federal government, have passed legislation, referred to as right-to-know laws, that requires the release of information on the hazards associated with chemicals produced or used in a given facility. Most right-to-know laws address both community and employee access to information about potential hazards. Requirements of these laws usually include providing public access to information on hazardous materials present, conducting inventories or surveys, establishing recordkeeping and exposure reporting systems, and complying with labeling regulations. Notification of emergency releases of hazardous substances into the environment is also required under right-to-know laws, such as the Federal Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986 (EPCRA).