RRC urges readiness as 2018 hurricane season kicks off
June 01, 2018AUSTIN– The Railroad Commission is reminding regulated industries under its jurisdiction that June 1 marks the official beginning of the Atlantic hurricane season and to review or update emergency preparedness and response plans. These plans should include steps they deem necessary to secure and protect personnel, equipment and facilities to prevent injury or damage in the event of a tropical storm or hurricane.
In the event a hurricane causes a leak or spill of five barrels or more on land, or any amount into water, operators are reminded they must immediately notify the RRC. Operators are also required by RRC rules to contain and clean up any spills and remediate any impacted soil or vegetation.
Spills can be reported to the RRC’s district offices around the state. Contact information for those offices can be found on the RRC’s website here. The RRC also maintains a toll-free emergency hotline 24-hours a day, seven days a week at 1-844-773-0305.
About the Railroad Commission:
Our mission is to serve Texas by our stewardship of natural resources and the environment, our concern for personal and community safety, and our support of enhanced development and economic vitality for the benefit of Texans. The Commission has a long and proud history of service to both Texas and to the nation, including almost 100 years regulating the oil and gas industry. The Commission also has jurisdiction over alternative fuels safety, natural gas utilities, surface mining and intrastate pipelines. Established in 1891, the Railroad Commission of Texas is the oldest regulatory agency in the state. To learn more, please visit https://www.rrc.texas.gov/about-us/.