Harris Texas Environmental Matters Hazardous Substances refers to the regulations, policies, and procedures put in place by the Harris County, Texas, government to address and mitigate the risks associated with hazardous substances within the county's jurisdiction. These substances pose a potential threat to human health, ecosystems, and overall environmental quality. The Harris Texas Environmental Matters Hazardous Substances program encompasses a comprehensive approach to managing hazardous materials, including identification, assessment, containment, cleanup, and prevention strategies. The aim is to protect the public and the environment from the potential adverse effects of these substances. Some hazardous substances commonly found in Harris County, Texas, include: 1. Chemicals: This category includes various toxic, flammable, corrosive, or reactive substances often used in manufacturing, industries, or commercial processes. These may include industrial solvents, cleaning agents, pesticides, herbicides, or other hazardous chemical compounds. 2. Petroleum Products: As a major hub for oil and gas industries, Harris County also deals with hazardous substances associated with the extraction, refining, and transportation of petroleum. These substances may include crude oil, gasoline, diesel, lubricating oils, and other petroleum-based products. 3. Hazardous Waste: Harris County generates a significant amount of hazardous waste through various sources such as industrial activities, healthcare facilities, laboratories, and households. These wastes may include chemicals, pharmaceuticals, biomedical waste, asbestos-containing materials, electronic waste, and other materials that require specific disposal methods for safety. 4. Air Pollutants: Hazardous substances released into the air through industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, or other sources contribute to air pollution. These pollutants include volatile organic compounds (Vows), particulate matter, ozone-depleting substances, and toxic gases that can have detrimental effects on air quality and human health. 5. Hazardous Materials Transportation: Given its extensive transportation infrastructure, Harris County faces risks associated with the transportation of hazardous substances. Accidents or spills during the transportation of chemicals, fuels, or other hazardous materials pose a significant threat to public safety, water bodies, and ecosystems. To effectively manage these hazardous substances, the Harris Texas Environmental Matters Hazardous Substances program involves various activities, such as enacting regulations and guidelines, conducting inspections and audits, promoting compliance, providing training and awareness programs, and coordinating emergency response measures. The county collaborates with industry stakeholders, regulatory agencies, emergency responders, and communities to mitigate risks and ensure a safe environment for its residents. Overall, the Harris Texas Environmental Matters Hazardous Substances program strives to protect human health, safeguard the environment, and maintain regulatory compliance in relation to the management and handling of hazardous substances within Harris County's boundaries. Through these efforts, the county aims to create a sustainable and secure future for its residents and natural resources alike.
Para su conveniencia, debajo del texto en español le brindamos la versión completa de este formulario en inglés. For your convenience, the complete English version of this form is attached below the Spanish version.