This section of Title III requires an industry to notify the LEPC, the State, and the National Response Center if there is a release of a listed hazardous substance that exceeds a certain quantity, as specified in the November 17, 1986, issue of the Federal Register.

Title III of SARA provides a framework for Federal, State, and local governments to work with industry to reduce hazardous materials risks and to develop comprehensive emergency response plans.

The emergency notification must include the name of the chemical released, the quantity involved, how and into what it was released, and the health risks from exposure. This section of Title III also requires the industry to submit reports to the State and LEPC after the event that explains what actions were taken to control the release, and to provide more data on health risks and any medical attention required for victims.

This part of the law will allow communities to learn if significant releases from hazardous materials facilities are occurring or are likely to occur, and whether state-of-the-art technology is being used by the plants to protect nearby communities from unnecessary adverse health effects.