This office lease form states that the landlord and the tenant will fulfill, observe and comply with all of the terms and provisions of all applicable environmental laws.
The Washington Environmental Matters Hazardous Substances program is a vital initiative enacted by the state of Washington to regulate and manage hazardous substances that pose potential risks to public health and the environment. This comprehensive program aims to prevent, control, and mitigate the release or exposure of hazardous substances in order to safeguard the state's natural resources, ecosystems, and the well-being of its residents. Under this program, specific types of hazardous substances are strictly identified and regulated. Here are some key classes of hazardous substances that fall under the purview of Washington's Environmental Matters Hazardous Substances: 1. Toxic Chemicals: This category encompasses a wide range of chemicals that are considered highly toxic or pose significant environmental and health risks. Examples include lead, mercury, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), benzene, and certain pesticides. 2. Hazardous Waste: This includes any discarded material or byproduct that meets certain criteria, such as ignitability, corrosively, reactivity, or toxicity. Hazardous waste can originate from manufacturing processes, industry, or commercial activities, and may include substances like solvents, heavy metals, flammable liquids, or radioactive materials. 3. Persistent Bioaccumulative Toxics (Puts): Puts are substances that are resistant to breaking down in the environment and tend to accumulate in living organisms, potentially causing severe ecological harm. Examples of Puts include certain polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dioxins, and various pesticides. 4. Petroleum Products: This category encompasses a wide range of substances derived from crude oil, such as gasoline, diesel fuel, heating oil, jet fuel, lubricants, and other petroleum-based products. While these substances are highly useful, they can also pose risks in case of spills, leaks, or improper disposal. 5. Asbestos: Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber previously used in a variety of construction and insulation materials due to its fire resistance and durability. However, when disturbed, it can release tiny fibers that, when inhaled, can cause serious health issues such as lung cancer and mesothelioma. Washington's Environmental Matters Hazardous Substances program establishes regulations and guidelines for the storage, handling, transportation, disposal, and cleanup of these materials. It requires businesses, industries, and individuals to adhere to strict procedures, obtain appropriate permits, report releases or spills promptly, and take necessary measures to prevent and mitigate potential environmental hazards. By overseeing the management of hazardous substances, Washington aims to minimize the potential harm to ecosystems, protect the wellbeing of its population, and promote sustainable practices that safeguard the state's environmental resources for future generations.
