EPA encourages inspections of potential sources of oil or hazardous substance releases, believing that the best way to avoid the environmental and economic effects of spills is by preventing them from occurring in the first place. As part of its prevention program, EPA personnel conduct periodic on-site inspections of facilities. These inspections help to ensure that storage facilities comply with regulations and provide EPA personnel with the opportunity to educate owners and operators about the regulations and methods for ensuring compliance.

Most inspections are announced to the owner or operator of the facility in advance, but EPA occasionally conducts unannounced facility inspections. These inspections often involve a walk-through of the facility to evaluate implementation of spill prevention and response measures.

This page is part of a demonstration by Potomac River Media. It does not represent the policies or positions of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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