Release Reporting
A surface spill or overfill of a regulated substance is considered a confirmed release when: 1) any spill or overfill quantity is not cleaned up within 24 hours, or 2) a spill or overfill quantity is greater than 25 gallons.
Emergency Response
Upon discovery of a regulated substance on the ground or in surface water, or if a regulated substance has the potential to create a fire, explosion or acute health hazard, emergency response action shall be initiated immediately.
Site Characterization Report
If the released product has come into contact with surficial soil, surface water, groundwater, a stormwater collection system that discharges to surface water, or a sensitive environment, the owner/operator is required to conduct a site characterization in accordance with this guidance.
Any release of an OPS regulated substance that has or may impact waters of the State, no matter how small, must immediately be reported to the CDPHE emergency response center. 1-877-518-5608
Surface Release Characterization Report
If the owner/operator can demonstrate that less than 100 gallons of product was released and that the released product did not come in contact with surficial soil, surface water, groundwater, a stormwater collection system that discharges to surface water, or a sensitive environment, the owner/operator may submit a Surface Release Characterization Report (SRCR) in accordance with the OPS Instructions for a SRCR. The primary elements of an SRCR are described below.
Surface Release Narrative
A narrative must be provided that summarizes the events pertaining to the release, including the following:
- A chronology of the initial response
- Weather conditions at the time of the release and during the cleanup
- Identification of responders including names and contact information
- Abatement activities and disposition of abatement derived waste.
Surface Release Location Map
A site map must show the surface area of the release, and include the following:
- North arrow
- Property boundaries
- Locations and names of streets
- Site buildings and structures
- Location of USTs, ASTs, and dispensers, and product piping runs
- Type of ground cover (e.g., asphalt, concrete)
- Groundwater monitoring wells and tank pit observation wells.
Responder Incident Reports
Attach all available reports from private contractors and local, county, and state agencies. Typically, the fire department’s response report will be available.
Photo Documentation
Provide photos to document the surface release area, abatement and cleanup activities, and post abatement and mitigation conditions at the site.
Waste Disposal Manifests
Attach copies of all manifests provided by transporters, landfills, disposal and treatment facilities.