Reducing the Potential Scope of Chemical Catastrophes in the US Chemical Industry: Evidence From the EPA's Risk Management Planning Program.

Available information suggests that some chemical facilities are reducing the potential for catastrophic chemical releases to nearby communities. However, the actual extent and nature of any technological changes are not well documented, and the pace of change is slow at best. Moreover, major federal programs do not routinely investigate industry practices and communicate lessons learned, thereby missing important opportunities to generate knowledge of solutions that reduce populations at risk.